Public Administration at EXT
The Bachelor of Science in Public Administration prepares you to plan, direct, and coordinate supportive services in government, private, or nonprofit organizations. You will study communications, finance, politics, and other subjects that will serve you in a variety of administrative roles with a public service mission.
Format
Schedule
Classes start: January 24 and March 22
Credits Required
120 Credits
Ways to Save
Are you:
A resident of Central Falls, Cranston, East Providence, Foster, Glocester or Pawtucket?
A veteran or active duty military?
Eligible for Prior Learning Assessment?
A member of a partnership with RWU?
Ask EXT about Ways to Save.
Apply By
You Can
Whether you're already working in an administrative career or want to transfer military experience to a government or nonprofit position, we'll find a path for you. Our faculty are committed, passionate professionals with years of experience in Public Administration careers.
“Prior Learning Assessment saved me a year in my educational timeline. I was able to get the credit I deserved from my associate’s degree.”
Greg Ehlinger ’17, Appraisal Analyst, Santander Bank
At EXT: Public Administration
More: Going Back to Finish a Degree, Saving Time & Money
How You'll Get There
At EXT, we support you on your individual path. Whether you are just starting out or picking up where you left off, we work with you to accomplish your goals. As you work with our faculty, each respected in their field, you'll build lasting connections that open doors to your success.
You'll receive one-on-one guidance from your advisor each step of the way. You may take advantage of our prior learning assessment, applying transfer credit, trainings and assessments, military experience, work experience, and self-taught skills toward your degree.
You Need
- An interest in organization, leadership, or strategy
- Official transcripts from high school, college
You Don't Need
- Entrance exam
- SAT/ACT scores
- Pre-requisites
- Admission essay
- Application fee
Sample Courses
Effective Speaking Across Audiences
Organizational Theory and Management
American Government and Politics
Bachelor Options
The Bachelor of Science degree in Public Administration is designed for those in or seeking careers in public service that require various administrative skills including federal, state and local government agencies, nonprofit organizations and other public sector-oriented entities. Courses focus on building skills around the topics of budgeting, personnel and financial administration, the management of organizations, public service leadership, law, political and government institutions, ethics and global awareness that are critical for not only public administration, but all global citizens.
The curriculum of the BS in Public Administration program is based on the standards of the Network of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA) and emphasizes the following public service values: accountability; transparency; respect for citizen privacy; ethical actions and values; and participatory processes that encourage citizen engagement.
10 core courses
9 required courses
3 major electives
+ 18 additional electives
_________________________
40 courses (120 credits)
Common Add-On Certificates
You can easily add one of the following professional certificates to this degree without taking any additional classes. They allow you to earn your degree one step at a time, adding credentials to your resume along the way.
In this professional certificate program, you will learn about contemporary issues in public safety and the ways organizations respond to the challenges. Courses cover public speaking skills and crime prevention along with specific public safety concerns such as drug use and youth gangs.
6 required courses = 18 credits
In this professional certificate program, you will learn the specific skillsets needed to be an effective defender of homeland security. Learn strategies and theories of disaster management, counter-terrorism methods, crime prevention, and more.
6 required courses = 18 credits
Whether you've been working in the medical field for several years or are just starting out, a professional certificate in Health Services Administration will help you meet your goals. Perhaps you'd like to get a bachelors degree in the future, or maybe you already have your degree but want to shift your career path. This certificate opens up doors to effectively run health care facilities, a growing career path with high earning potential.
5 required courses = 15 credits
Whether you're a healthcare professional and want to gain more specific skills for your career, seeking a Bachelor's degree with a case management concentration, or are just starting out in this field, this professional certificate can help you reach your goals.
5 required courses = 15 credits
Flexible Options to Suit Your Schedule
You may complete this entire program online, from anywhere, on your own schedule. Depending on the needs and interests of our students, we also offer in-person courses to bring your learning to life through face-to-face discussion. Our hybrid on-line and in-person courses give you the best of both worlds. Your advisor will help you determine which path works best for you.
Your Career
Studying Public Administration can lead to a wide range of careers with a wide range of salaries. Many people with this degree end up working in local, state, or federal government.
While career outlooks depend on candidate experience and specific employer requirements, the table below reflects average salaries for people with Public Administration backgrounds in various settings including government, nonprofit, and private organizations*
| Profession | What You'll Do | What You'll Need | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Political or Organizational Fundraising Manager | Coordinate campaigns that bring in donations for an organization. | Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree preferred by some employers | $131,570 |
| Administrative Services Manager | Plan, direct and coordinate supportive services of an organization. | Bachelor's Degree | $106,050 |
| Government Budget Analyst | Prepare budget reports and monitor institutional spending. | Bachelor's Degree | $79,830 |
| Human Resources Specialist | Support hiring process and oversee employee relations, compensation and trainings. | Bachelor's Degree | $66,790 |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians | Monitor environment and investigate pollution in sites. | Associate's Degree or Bachelor's Degree and coursework in natural sciences | $50,350 |
*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook. Job outlook: 2018-2028. Median salary: 2018
Individualized Support, More Affordable
At EXT, you get the individualized attention of a private university at a more affordable cost. There are multiple options for financial aid, scholarships, and accelerated paths to get you to the degree you need. Some programs run by Roger Williams are awarded by simply applying for admission, while others are awarded to students through a more formal aid application process.
To ensure full consideration for all aid programs, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Learn More About Tuition at EXT
Questions? Reach out!
Everyone has questions.
Our Pathway Specialists are here to help. Contact EXT Admissions at ucadmissions@rwu.edu.