The purpose of Public Administration 301 is to introduce students to the concepts, issues and major topics in the field of public administration. The course looks at the theories and practices of public administration in different environments, as well as, the practical application through case studies. The class explores several components of public administration including the history of the field, organizational structure and stakeholders, collaborative processes, behavioral dynamics of individuals and groups, communications, budgeting, decision-making, relationship between bureaucracy and public interest, management and policy implementation. The course will serve as a basis for further study in public administration
II. Student Learning Objectives:
a. Learn the history and evolution of the field of public administration
b. Grasp the works of leading administrative theorists
c. Develop an understanding between the theory and practice of public administration
d. Know the concepts of organizational structure and stakeholder analysis
e. Apply concepts of management and leadership to public organizations
f. Gain knowledge of how to institute collaborative processes between different organizations
g. Apply theories and concept of group dynamics within public organizations
h. Relate theories and concepts of goal setting, communications, and power to develop strategies for improving organizational efficiency
i. Develop skills related to policy development and implementation
j. Mature critical thinking skills needed by public administrators
k. Understand public administration problems in actual situations
l. Increase an individual’s ability to make decisions for public organizations
III. Course Format: The idea behind this type of course format is that the instructor creates an interactive learning environment where each person contributes input to the group and that the time spent together is characterized by interactive learning. For you to get the most out of PA 301 requires high involvement and a commitment to trading ideas. Class periods will include a combination of lecture, discussion, case exercises and group activities. Discussion material will be drawn from the course text, current research/articles, and relevant work experiences.
IV. Evaluation
Student performance will be assessed in different ways during the semester. Evaluation will be based on the following elements.
• Attendance
• Class Participation
• Exams
V. Course Requirements:
1. Textbook: Public Administration 9th edition, Richard Stillman II , Cengage
ISBN: 10-0618993010
2. Examinations: There will be four exams during the semester. The exams will be multiple choice. The exams will cover the material discussed in class as well as the assigned readings and cases. The exams may or may not be cumulative. Only the grades from the top three exams will be calculated into the grade point average. If a student misses more than one exam, those exam(s) will receive a grade of zero. There are no make-up exams. Further explanation of the requirements will be provided during the semester
3. Case studies: Case discussions are a particularly important method for applying course material. Prior to class, students will read and be prepared to discuss the cases in class.
4. Regular Attendance & Participation. Class attendance will be monitored. It is the participant’s responsibility to obtain materials for any missed classes from other students. Missing three sessions or more will be noted negatively: there are NO EXCUSED ABSENCES for this purpose. Good and active class participation will be rewarded.
5. Preparedness: Read all materials as outlined in the syllabus as well as any handouts and be prepared to discuss in class. It is highly recommended that you read the assigned chapters before attending the class. It is the student’s responsibility to check blackboard on a regular
