Bachelor's Degree in Public Administration: A Complete Guide

By Harold RoldanJun 19, 2024Updated May 20, 2026

See if you qualify for Administrative Assistant programs

Answer a few questions in 2 minutes. Free, no commitment.

Explore what’s required to earn a Bachelor's degree in Public Administration. We'll cover what it is, its pros and cons, the steps, how long it takes, online options, what you'll study, and future careers.

Key Points

A bachelor's degree in Public Administration prepares students for careers in government, non-profit organizations, and the public sector.
The program covers topics such as public policy, budgeting, human resource management, and organizational behavior.
Graduates can pursue entry-level roles in areas like program management, policy analysis, and community development.
The degree can also serve as a stepping stone to graduate-level programs in Public Administration, Public Policy, or related fields.
Prospective students should meet admission requirements, apply to the program, explore financial aid options, and enroll to complete the degree.

Programs for you

Southern New Hampshire University

AS Business Administration

Online

Complete your degree at your own pace
24/7 online accessibility

Financial aid (may be available)

Southern New Hampshire University

BS Human Resources Management

Online

Complete your degree at your own pace
24/7 online accessibility

Financial aid (may be available)

The University of Arizona Global Campus

BA in Business Information Systems

Online

5-6 Week Classes
Flexible start dates allow you to begin as soon as next week

Financial aid (may be available)

South University

B.B.A. - Business Administration

Online

Pursue your career with a flexible online degree.
Develop leadership, adaptability, and ethical decision-making.

Financial aid (may be available)

What is a Bachelor's Degree in Public Administration?

A bachelor's degree in Public Administration is an undergraduate program that focuses on the study of government, public policy, and the management of public and non-profit organizations. The curriculum typically covers topics such as public budgeting, human resource management, policy analysis, and organizational behavior. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in the public sector, including federal, state, and local government agencies, as well as non-profit organizations.

Pros and Cons of Pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Public Administration

Pros

Prepares students for a wide range of careers in the public and non-profit sectors
Develops valuable skills in areas like policy analysis, budgeting, and project management
Provides a foundation for graduate-level programs in Public Administration, Public Policy, or related fields
Offers opportunities for internships and hands-on experience in government or non-profit organizations
Can lead to stable, well-paying jobs with good benefits and job security

Cons

May have limited job opportunities in certain geographic areas or economic conditions
Requires a strong interest in public service and government-related work
Can be less lucrative than some private-sector careers, depending on the specific job and location
May require additional certifications or licenses for certain roles, such as law enforcement or emergency management

How to Get a Bachelor's Degree in Public Administration

1. Meet the Admission Requirements: To enroll in a bachelor's degree program in Public Administration, you'll typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, meet a minimum GPA requirement (often around 2.5-3.0), and submit standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) if required by the institution. Some programs may also have specific prerequisites or coursework that must be completed prior to admission.

2. Apply to the Public Administration Program: Once you've met the admission requirements, you'll need to complete the application process for the specific program you're interested in. This may involve submitting an application form, official transcripts, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and any other required materials.

3. Explore Financial Aid Options: Financing your education is an important consideration. Explore options such as scholarships, grants, student loans, and work-study programs to help cover the cost of tuition, fees, and other expenses. Be sure to research the eligibility requirements and application deadlines for various financial aid opportunities.

4. Enroll and Complete the Program: Once you've been accepted into the program, you can enroll and begin taking courses towards your Bachelor's degree in Public Administration. The program typically takes four years to complete, with a curriculum that includes core classes in public administration, as well as electives and general education requirements.

List of Online Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration

Considering an online bachelor's degree in Public Administration? Dreambound is one platform you might find appealing, offering a flexible and affordable Public Administration degree program.

Dreambound is an online education provider that collaborates with accredited universities to provide top-tier, affordable degree programs. Their online bachelor's degree in Public Administration is structured to be convenient and flexible for students.

Some of the programs and universities offered through Dreambound include:

Liberty University Online

Program:

BS: Government: Public Administration
BS: Public Administration
BS: Business Administration & Data Analysis: Public Administration
BS: Criminal Justice: Public Administration

Southern New Hampshire University

Program:

BS Business Administration with concentration in Public Administration

How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor's Degree in Public Administration?

A bachelor's degree in Public Administration typically takes four years of full-time study to complete. The program consists of approximately 120 credit hours, which includes a combination of general education requirements, core courses in public administration, and electives. Some students may be able to complete the degree in a shorter time frame by taking additional courses during the summer or by transferring in credits from previous college coursework.

What to Expect from a Bachelor's Degree in Public Administration

A Bachelor's degree in Public Administration provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices, and challenges of managing and administering public organizations and programs. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including:

Public policy development and implementation
Budgeting and financial management
Human resource management
Organizational behavior and leadership
Quantitative and qualitative analysis
Ethics and social equity in public service

Throughout the program, students will have the opportunity to apply their knowledge through internships, case studies, and group projects, which can help them develop practical skills and gain real-world experience in the public sector.

What Can You Do with a Public Administration Bachelor's Degree?

Graduate School Preparation

A Bachelor's degree in Public Administration can serve as a strong foundation for graduate-level programs in Public Administration, Public Policy, or related fields, such as a Master of Public Administration (MPA) or a Doctorate in Public Administration (DPA). These advanced degrees can further expand career opportunities and lead to leadership roles in government, non-profit organizations, or the private sector.

Entry-Level Public Administration Roles

With a Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, graduates can pursue a variety of entry-level roles, including:

Program Coordinator
Policy Analyst
Community Development Specialist
Administrative Assistant
Public Information Officer
Urban Planner
Grants Coordinator

Career Opportunities

Individuals with a Bachelor's degree in Public Administration can find employment in a range of settings, such as:

Federal, state, and local government agencies
Non-profit organizations
International development organizations
Healthcare administration
Education administration
Social services agencies

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for management occupations in the public administration sector was $94,680 in 2023, with a projected job outlook of 7% growth from 2022 to 2032, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.

Final Thoughts

A Bachelor's degree in Public Administration is a versatile and valuable credential that can open the door to a wide range of career opportunities in the public and non-profit sectors. By developing a strong foundation in areas such as public policy, budgeting, and organizational management, graduates of this program are well-equipped to make a meaningful impact in their communities and contribute to the effective and efficient delivery of public services. Whether you're interested in an entry-level role or aspire to advance to leadership positions, a Bachelor's degree in Public Administration can be an excellent choice for those passionate about public service and making a difference in the world.

Feel free to take a peek at the other guides below if this one isn't hitting the nail on the head: