Top 10 Colleges for Earning a Public Administration Degree Online

A private Catholic institution founded in 1878, Duquesne University is a dedicated provider of quality distance education programs intended to facilitate the success of their students. Duquesne University has earned international regard for the quality of their degree programs and commitment to excellence. The institution boasts a student body of more than 10,000 individuals and nearly 80,000 alumni, and offers 100 undergraduate and 66 graduate degree programs. The degree programs provide a comprehensive liberal arts education intended to equip each student with the skills and knowledge to succeed in any field. Duquesne University is a service driven institution which strives to instill in each of its graduates an understanding and appreciation for social responsibility and high ethical standards. The faculty members are dedicated spiritual and academic instructors who are committed to their students. The business programs at Duquesne University are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International, the world’s premier business school accrediting agency.

The Graduate Center for Social and Public Policy at Duquesne University offers a 36-credit Master of Arts in Policy Analysis and Administration which provides students with an in depth understanding of the complexities and challenges of the public administration field. Students learn the policy-making process and the techniques and methods of policy analysis and research, and examine a focused area of the field such as health, environment, housing, or community development. The program curriculum teaches students to devise and implement effective policies in response to social and political problems. Required courses include social and public policy analysis, politics of civic problems or women and politics, policy implementation, American politics and policy, research methods, quantitative analysis, and an internship. A certificate program is also offered, requiring the completion of 21 credits, as well as a five-year bachelor’s to master’s program. Upon completion of either program, graduates are prepared to work in the public or private sector.

Brookline College, founded in 1979, offers a range of affordable, flexible degree programs. Brookline College strives to continuously improve its educational experience to meet the needs of its culturally diverse student body and to remain abreast of advances and changes in various industries. The range of career-oriented degree programs offered at Brookline College includes associate and bachelor’s degree programs and diploma options. Brookline College adds programs to its college based on which fields are experiencing growth and employment needs. The curriculum focuses on experiential learning. Frequent enrollment options ensure students won’t have to delay the start of their educational program. Faculty members teaching the courses are experienced instructors with advanced degrees. Brookline College offers extensive support services including continual placement assistance for alumni and on-campus career fairs. Brookline College is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools.

Strayer University, established in 1892, boasts a long and illustrious history as a provider of distance education programs. Strayer University was developed for the purpose of providing quality and affordable educational programs to busy working adults who would otherwise be unable to accomplish their educational goals and advance their careers. The degree programs provide career relevant curriculum at the forefront of advances in each industry. As a student-centered institution, Strayer University strives to provide their student body of more than 54,000 individuals with the individualized attention and programs needed to ensure their success. In addition to high-quality degree programs, Strayer University employs industry experienced instructors to teach their courses. Students are offered the option of completing courses online or at one of the many campuses across the country. Strayer University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The 54-credit Master of Public Administration degree offered at Strayer University provides a challenging, comprehensive program which prepares students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become leaders in the industry. Students acquire expertise in the field, developing skills in problem solving, conflict resolution, management, and critical and analytical thinking. The curriculum includes studies in the fundamental areas of business and management. The courses include studies of public perception, methodology, and theory. The program prepares students for work in a variety of settings including government, nonprofit organizations, and various professional entities. Practical application of the skills learned in the classroom is utilized to develop an inherent understanding of the major and to develop an ability to develop and determine optimal solutions to an array of dynamic and difficult issues facing societies and governmental entities.

Bellevue University is an award-winning provider of distance education programs. The largest private university in the state of Nebraska, Bellevue University offers a range of innovative degree programs through online courses. Bellevue University offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including a doctorate program. Students are offered the option of completing an accelerated bachelor degree program which can be completed in only three years. The curriculum incorporates practical application with theoretical studies to ensure students attain a comprehensive understanding of the course content. Faculty instructors are experienced teachers and professionals who bring real world knowledge into the classroom experience. Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Bellevue University offers a comprehensive 36-credit master’s of public administration degree program which prepares students to meet the challenges of this complex field. Students are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to become leaders in the public administration profession. The 16-month program includes studies in management, organization, and finance for a range of organizations including government, nonprofit, and public organizations. Courses include a foundation in public administration, communications in public sector, organizational modeling and decision theories, human resources and organizational effectiveness, strategic planning and policy development, finance for the public administrator, and contemporary issues in public administration. Projects are due each term to provide students the opportunity to exercise the knowledge they are learning in their courses.

South University, established in 1899, has evolved from a two-year institution into a well regarded provider of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, with eight traditional campuses and an online campus. South University is a private, student-centered institution which strives to prepare its students with the intellectual and social skills necessary to become successful professionals in their area of study. The degree programs are designed to promote critical thinking, effective communication skills, and an appreciation for lifelong learning. Students are taught ethical and professionals values, and learn to develop and achieve their goals. South University offers students career services intended to help with job placement and professional development, and financial aid services to help students with financing their education. South University is accredited by the commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

The College of Business at South University offers a Master of Public Administration which provides a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum. Students enrolled in the program are prepared to assume leadership positions in local, state, and national governmental agencies, as well as non-profit organizations. The interdisciplinary program includes coursework from other areas to ensure students are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary. Students are able to pursue an area of specialization in nonprofit administration, public policy, criminal justice, or information technology, or adhere to a general studies program. Students also have the option of creating a customized degree program from a series of elective and specialization courses. Students in all three tracts will be required to complete core courses in general subjects, elective courses, and specialization courses, as well as complete a capstone project.