Emphasis in State and Local Government Policy and Administration
MPA students studying this emphasis complete the 18 credit hours of core MPA courses. In addition, 12 credits of the electives must include the following.
3 credit required course:
PUBADM-560 State and Local Government Policy and Administration (3 credits)
This course examines state and local government administration in a political and organizational context and the attendant interunit, intersector, and interjurisdictional cooperation and conflict in policy administration. Attention is paid to management in a federal system with a focus on nation-state-local relations.
9 credits from the following list:
PUBADM-520 Community and Regional Planning (3 credits)
This course studies the theories, objectives, techniques, and problems of governmental planning within cities, metropolitan areas, and regions, as well as at the national level of government in the United States. The planning profession and the politics of planning will be discussed.
PUBADM-550 The Executive and the Administrative Process (3 credits)
This course covers the powers and responsibilities of elected and appointed executives in the public sector. Concepts examined in the class include leadership and management, executive roles, management theories and styles, and relationships with separate branches of government and other actors in the political environment. The unique position of the executive between politics and administration, and the relevant activities in policy formation through implementation, form the basis of discussion.
Approved “Selected Topics” or “Special Topics” courses:
One—but not both—of the following courses:
PUBADM-540 Contemporary Issues in Natural Resource and Environmental Policy and Administration (3 credits)
This course examines current issues, actors, and policies in the area of natural resources and the environment. Topics include: land and water management and use, the environment of natural resource policy, the roles and behaviors of natural resource agencies, and alternative natural resource policy futures. Students will address current issues in natural resource and environmental policy.
PUBADM-541 Environmental and Regulatory Policy and Administration Politics (3 credits)
This course examines aspects of environmental regulatory politics and policy. Topics examined include the politics of regulation, pollution and waste policy, and intergovernmental environmental management.