Public Administration (PAA)

This course provides an introduction to concepts of public service in different organizations: government, non-profit and private. Through readings and discussions you will gain an overview of the history of public administration in the context of American democracy. Special focus will be placed on an analysis and critique of the rise of out-sourcing in the public sector and the responsibilities of private contractors in carrying out the functions of government agencies.

Strategic planning and management are crucial for 21st century public managers. In this course, students learn how to think, act and learn strategically, and apply strategy tools. The course is split up into three parts: strategic planning, strategy implementation, strategy evaluation and learning. Within each part students are taught essential concepts, and introduced to the different strategy tools they have at their disposal. Practical examples are offered throughout the lectures. Moreover, during workshops students will be able to apply the strategy tools to a concrete case aimed at stimulating their social entrepreneurship and creativity. In doing so, students are not only acquainted with core concepts related to strategic planning and management but also gain experience in how these tools are applied in practice, and which difficulties could emerge. Since organizational structures are mainly a function of their budget process, this course will cover topics in public budgeting, finance and financial management. The course thus prepares students to become knowledgeable strategic planners and managers, which is an inherent part of public management.

This course explores the planning process in common use by public managers and presents some specific guidelines for program planning. In addition, the course demonstrates the relationship between program planning, implementation and evaluation. Both process and outcome approaches to evaluation are covered.

Introduction to administration, public policy and policy makings is the study of government workers, the organizations in which they work, how they are financed, and how government engages citizens to help form and maintain community. In various ways, the class sessions will explore the three important issues of public administration: discretion, authority, and accountability.