In order to provide students with experiences which will prepare them for the wide range of career options mentioned above, the M.P.A. curriculum is designed as both flexible and interdisciplinary, and divided into four compenents. The core component of the M.P.A. curriculum is composed of six required courses which focus upon subject matter that any administrator needs to master and use. The policy aspects of public personnel administration at all levels of government are examined. Specific attention is given to personnel issues unique to the public sector such as rights of public employees, civil service systems, and public service ethics in a democratic society. Focus is upon the relationship between public policy and the distribution of values, goods, and services in society.
Students analyze and evaluate policies in an area of their choice.
Theories concerning the structure and mission of public organizations, and the role of administrative leadership in applying theory to solve organizational problems will be examined. Budgeting, as a fiscal management tool, is examined within the political decision making process. All these courses are offered in the evening, usually one every academic year. Summer offerings vary from year to year. Students may choose from a range of graduate seminars and courses offered by the Department of Political Science.