Public Administration and Social Services

Overview of Public Administration and Social Services College and University Programs

Public administration and social services programs are mainly administered through the social sciences department of colleges and universities. These programs prepare graduates to enter the world of public service in different facets. Graduates work to improve the quality of life in the nation at the local, state, and national level.

Degrees in Public Administration and Social Services

Students who pursue an accredited degree in public administration and social services can achieve the degree via different educational programs. Degrees in this field are generally available at the Bachelor's and Master's degree levels.  The Bachelor's degree program usually requires four years to complete while the Master's degree program generally requires two years to complete. The Master's degree in public administration and social services requires a Bachelor's degree to gain entrance into the program. Students interested in studying public administration and social services at a lower degree level can learn about the discipline as a minor.

College and University Public Administration and Social Services Curriculum

The curriculum for a public administration and social services degree teaches students many concepts in order to form an understanding of the factors that contribute to the functioning of different communities. Some of the courses taught include:

• Political science
• Statistics
• Community health
• Quantitative research methods
• Sociology
• Economics
• Communications
• Anthropology
• Public policy and law
• Organizational management
• Nonprofit management
• Case work

How to Enroll in Public Administration and Social Services College and University Programs

The public administration and social services degree can be pursued through different avenues. The degree can be obtained online or offline. An online degree in public administration and social services presents advantages for students who have commitments outside of their education. Online degree programs offer scheduling flexibility that offline programs typically do not. Attaining this degree offline allows students to interact more with professors and classmates. A traditional offline college experience presents more opportunities for social ties between students.

Skills Gained with Public Administration and Social Services Programs

A public administration and social services degree presents students with the knowledge that will benefit them in the future. The skills gained in a public administration and social services degree program will benefit students in their careers and personal lives. Some of the skills gained through this program include:

• Ability to conduct research and analyze findings
• Exposure to the different levels of government and their interactions
• Knowledge of economics and its application to government
• Understanding of the factors that contribute to community health
• Communication skills to speak with peers, bosses, and other stakeholders
• Organizational techniques to coordinate activities
• Business management skills for a nonprofit

Working in Public Administration and Social Services

Public administration and social services degree graduates can find employment in different sectors. Depending on their expertise, career goals and educational levels, students can become urban planners, economists, or social workers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, urban planners earned a median annual wage of $59,810 in May 2008. Social workers enjoyed a median annual salary of $39,530 and economists earned $108,010 for the Federal Government.