Public Administration majors at JMU graduate with powerful skills for understanding their community, country and the world.

Students majoring in public administration take courses in U.S. politics and policy, public and nonprofit management, economics, and research methodology. Interested students may apply in their sophomore year to participate in the Fifth-Year Master of Public Administration degree program, which allows qualified students to earn an MPA degree with one additional year of study. Our vast network of alumni helps students transition to careers in government, consulting, policy advocacy, communications and the non-profit sector.

We seek to enhance the quality of public policy and civic life at home and abroad by teaching students, conducting research and collaborating with people inside and outside of the JMU community.

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Great prep for leadership in government and non-profit organizations

The major is a part of the Department of Political Science, an academic unit within the College of Arts and Letters.

The major in public administration provides students with a general foundation in the nature of public policy, the public workplace and its political, legal and managerial environments. This major prepares students for professional employment and leadership in government and nonprofit organizations. The program consists of a core of courses offering general knowledge essential for understanding and working in the public arena. This core provides students with an appreciation of the political culture and economic environment of public work, measurement techniques and a basic understanding of the policy process.

Public Administration
  • Degrees Offered: 
    • B.S.
  • Concentrations: 
    • Public Management
    • Public Policy
  • Minors:
    • Political Communication
    • Public Policy and Administration

For detailed program information and curriculum, please visit:


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