It is practical in the sense that it considers actual policies or practices of governments, and methods for their reform. Public administration is also multidisciplinary. It draws upon other disciplines that have something to say about the opportunities and limitations governments face. Political science provides an understanding of the political system of which the public service is a part, and of the processes by which policy decisions are made. Economics describes the allocation of products and resources in markets with and without government involvement.
Law addresses the legal controls of public authorities and the rights of citizens.
Sociology considers the behaviour and motivation of individuals working in bureaucratic settings. Accounting, quantitative methods, ethics, science - all can have a bearing on the field of public administration. Students of public administration could wish for no better place to study than in the national capital. Ottawa is home to many federal government departments and agencies, as well as national associations, research institutes and non-governmental organizations that deal with public policy issues. All are valuable sources of information for enquiring students.