Public Administration

You’ll develop the leadership skills and analytical expertise needed to understand and address complex governance challenges across a range of public sectors — and to make a meaningful impact in the communities you serve.

Overview

Public Administration examines how policies, decisions, and organizational practices shape and impact society. At Lisburn University, we delve into the ways public administration influences governance, public services, and societal progress, empowering students to navigate and contribute to the complex systems of public management.

One day in class, your professor might present a case study on a recent government initiative or public policy. You and your classmates analyze, critique, and discuss that initiative from various perspectives, such as its implementation, effectiveness, ethical considerations, and societal impact. Then you design your own proposal or critique to address the policy’s challenges or enhance its outcomes.

Career Opportunities

Our graduates work and intern in a wide variety of roles across public sector organizations, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector entities. They contribute to policy analysis, public service management, urban planning, and community development, among other fields. Many have also pursued careers in public health, international relations, social work, and nonprofit leadership. Additionally, some of our graduates have gone on to graduate school in public administration, law, public policy, and related disciplines, continuing their journey of shaping effective and ethical governance.

Program Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate an understanding of how public administration shapes governance structures, decision-making processes, and the relationship between citizens and the state, while also recognizing the role of political practices, power relations, and cultural values in shaping public policies.

Be able to use various analytical and managerial tools to assess policy implementation, public sector leadership, and the efficiency of government institutions, focusing on both national and international contexts.

Demonstrate an understanding of the challenges and opportunities within public administration, including ethical governance, public service delivery, and accountability, and be prepared to apply this knowledge to create effective, equitable, and sustainable solutions in the public sector.

Programme

Semester 1	Credits	Number
Introduction to Public Administration	4	PADM 101
Public Policy Analysis	3	PADM 210
Ethics in Public Administration	3	PADM 320

Semester 2	Credits	Number
Public Sector Leadership	4	PADM 400
Public Financial Management	3	PADM 430
Human Resource Management in Public Sector	3	PADM 440

Semester 3	Credits	Number
Policy Implementation and Evaluation	4	PADM 510
Urban and Regional Planning	3	PADM 520
Nonprofit Management	3	PADM 530

Semester 4	Credits	Number
International Public Administration	4	PADM 600
Public Administration Research Methods	3	PADM 610
Capstone Project in Public Administration	3	PADM 620
Total for the entire period of study	40