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Major in Public Administration

Program(s) Available: B.S., Minor

If you're interested in pursuing a public leadership position or making society a better place, a major in public administration may be for you. Keep reading to learn the benefits of this program! 

Why Study Public Administration at Northwest

This program focuses on public policy, public management and organizational behavior. Students will learn the basics of public administration and what a career in public policy could look like! This is also a great major to pursue if you have ever considered going into the non-profit industry. Public administration majors gain skills that will transfer well into a variety of leadership positions!

Pick your path

Public Administration B.S. (Minor required)

The public administration major centers on the decision-making process and explores job opportunities in public organizations and local, state, federal and international agencies.

This noncomprehensive major allows students to combine their interests in other fields through their minor with a degree that will allow for additional specialization while working in the public or private sector.

View the catalog for courses and more information.

Minor Program

1. Make an impact
Whether you're passionate about your local community, public policy, or nonprofit work, this minor helps you understand how to create real change from the inside out.

2. Boost your leadership skills
You’ll learn about budgeting, organizational leadership, decision-making, and ethics—all essential for leading teams and managing resources in public or private sectors.

3. Pair it with almost anything
Majoring in political science, business, social work, emergency management, or even agriculture? Public administration gives you the background to navigate regulations, policy, and public funding.

4. Open more career doors
This minor preps you for roles in city planning, government, nonprofit leadership, community development, public health, and more — plus it’s a great foundation for grad school or law school.

This 24-credit-hour program focuses on public policy, public management and organizational behavior.

Online Program

New for fall 2025!

Earn your bachelor’s degree on a schedule that works for you. An online Public Administration B.S. is available!

Career ready

“The professors I interacted with were absolutely wonderful. They seemed to really care about student success and were very helpful to me in understanding the campus community at Northwest.” — Lucas Fansler

Career opportunities

  • City Manager
  • Prosecutor
  • Legislative, executive or judicial services
  • Federal agent
  • Lobbyist
  • Campaign manager

What Can I Do With a Major in Public Administration?

Mock Trial Team

In the Mock Trial Team, students compete in trial simulations at invitational and American Mock Trial Association-sanctioned regional and national tournaments and Bearcat Invitational hosted annually at Northwest.

Mock Trial Team

Right Size. Right Price.

We understand college is a big investment. Why not attend a school that is invested in you?