Public Administration University of North Carolina Wilmington

Overview

The Public Administration programme at the University of North Carolina Wilmington provides a comprehensive professional education for those aspiring to lead in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. This interdisciplinary degree is nationally accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration, ensuring high academic standards.

Students benefit from a flexible learning environment that accommodates both working professionals and full-time scholars through asynchronous online classes and evening sessions. The curriculum focuses on developing essential skills in policy analysis, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making within diverse organisational settings.

Why Public Administration at the University of North Carolina Wilmington?

The university is recognised as a top doctoral and research institution, providing students with access to outstanding faculty known for their professional experience and published research. The programme is distinguished by its strong ties to local government through exclusive fellowships with New Hanover County and the City of Wilmington.

Facilities and resources at the institution support applied learning, where graduate students often partner with faculty on high-quality research projects. Additionally, the department offers a dual degree option in Environmental Sciences, allowing students to bridge the gap between scientific research and public policy implementation.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 1258 per credit
• National fee: USD 1258 per credit
• Local fee: USD 311 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to be adaptable, allowing students to select concentrations such as Public Management, Coastal Planning, or Urban and Regional Policy. Modules may include:

• Public Management
• Quantitative Methods
• Public Human Resources Management
• Financial Management & Decision Making
• Policy Analysis
• Capstone Seminar in Public Administration
• Analytics for Public & Nonprofit Management
• Program Evaluation
• Applied Management Tools, Skills, and Techniques
• Leading Public & Nonprofit Organizations
• Strategic Planning & Management
• Public Economics & Cost-Benefit Analysis
• Environmental Policy Analysis
• Nonprofit Business Law
• Government Planning & Geographic Information Systems
• Sustainable Cities

Students with less than five years of professional experience also undertake a 300-hour internship or a practicum project. This practical component allows for the application of theoretical knowledge in real-world administrative environments.

Careers with Public Administration

Graduates from this programme are well-prepared for leadership roles across various levels of government, including local, state, and federal agencies. Many alumni also secure influential positions within international non-profit organisations and private sector firms specialising in public affairs.

Common career paths include roles as city managers, policy analysts, programme specialists, and non-profit directors. The university's strong network of partnerships provides a robust foundation for students to transition into high-impact careers immediately following graduation.

Accreditation

Accredited with the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration.