Public Administration Northern Illinois University

Overview

The Public Administration programme at Northern Illinois University provides a rigorous professional education designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the public and non-profit sectors. This versatile degree offers specialised pathways for both aspiring professionals and experienced executives looking to advance their management expertise.

Students can choose between two primary delivery methods to suit their professional schedules. The traditional format uses a hybrid executive model where classes meet one evening per week in eight-week blocks. Alternatively, mid-career professionals with at least two years of public sector experience can opt for a fully online, asynchronous format that allows for maximum flexibility without fixed log-on times.

The curriculum is structured to accommodate different experience levels.

Why Public Administration at Northern Illinois University?

The institution holds a prestigious reputation in the field, with its local government management specialisation ranked 4th nationally by U.S. News and World Report. This ranking reflects the department's commitment to excellence in teaching and its deep connections to the public service sector. Students benefit from an executive-style teaching format that facilitates networking and collaborative learning.

The programme offers six distinct areas of specialisation, allowing students to tailor their education to specific career goals. These include Local Government Management, Strategic Public Management and Leadership, and Non-profit Management. Furthermore, the university maintains unique partnerships, such as a double degree option with Strathmore University in Kenya and a joint programme with the NIU law school.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 1011 per credit
• National fee: USD 623 per credit
• Local fee: USD 623 per credit

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Leadership in Public Sector Organisations
• Strategic Planning for Public Service Organisations
• Local and Metropolitan Government
• Local Government Administration
• Accounting for Public Administration
• Intermediate Public and Nonprofit Financial Management
• Resources Management for Nonprofit Organisations
• Non-Governmental Organisations and Governance

Careers with Public Administration

Graduates are prepared for high-level leadership and management roles within local, state, and federal government agencies. The programme also equips students for successful careers in non-governmental organisations and the non-profit sector. Common career paths include local government administration, strategic planning, and public financial management.

The curriculum focuses on developing essential competencies such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to lead in diverse public environments. By mastering collaborative management and service delivery, alumni are well-positioned to improve the quality of public service in communities across the country and internationally.