An examination of the major economic, social, and political processes involved in managing urban government in the United States. Topics may include contemporary issues in urban areas, urban finance, and intergovernmental dimensions of urban management. An exploration into the nature, breadth, and modes of analytical inquiry relevant to social, natural, managerial, policy, or other applied sciences. Attention focuses initially on the conduct of analysis, scientific investigation, and systematic inquiry. This course explores managerial means of accessing, organizing, and using information and data in public organizations.
Attention is given to use of Internet, internal database, and information systems management.
An inquiry into the philosophical and legal foundations of government administration, and the propriety, application, and enforcement of ethical standards for conducting government. Topics may include the dilemmas associated with public administration in democracies, multicultural environments, and societies marked by socioeconomic and ideological stratification. This course surveys theories, frameworks, approaches, and analytical tools in order to provide students with the basis for further study in policy analysis. Special attention is given to the role of policy analysis in forming the process of change and reform. Examines the public policy agenda-setting process.