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Public Administration, BA (Online)

CBU's online Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration degree program equips students with the strategies necessary for creative problem solving to meet the public's complex and diverse needs.

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Program Intro

Help build and strengthen society. The online Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration degree program prepares students for various public sector careers at the local, state and federal level as well as in non-profit. 

48 Units

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16 Months to Completion

*Based on a full-time course load and prior completion of general education and elective requirements

$520 +fees Cost Per Unit

*Based on current academic year. Subject to change.

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Why Earn Your BA in Public Administration (Online) at CBU?

Learn How to Facilitate Change

A bachelor’s degree in public administration serves as a foundation for entry-level to mid-management positions in the workforce and also serves as a foundation for graduate study in a variety of disciplines. Gain an understanding of social issues and how to facilitate change through government systems.

Learn Flexibly Online, On Your Schedule

Program Details

Consistent with the university student outcomes, upon completion of the Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration degree, graduates will be able to:

  1. Effectively present information in oral, written and visual formats.
  2. Describe, apply, and analyze the American political system and identify dynamics of the politics/administration dichotomy, representation and equity/fairness.
  3. Examine the complexities of the United States governance at the federal, state and local levels.
  4. Address current issues in American public administration theory, its historical development to current events both domestic and international.
  5. Apply an ethical perspective as they reflect upon the responsibilities as citizens, employees, managers and leaders.
  6. Develop critical thinking, analysis and research skills used in administration of governance.
  7. Demonstrate proficiency in thinking systematically about political interactions in national global and international contexts.

PAD 451: Executive Leadership and Management

This course introduces students to the executive and management skills necessary for successful leadership in public organizations. Emphasis is on assessment of personal growth needs and enhancement of administrative skills, including communication, decision-making, motivation, leadership styles, and team building. 

PAD 453: Administrative Law and Bureaucracy

This course examines the place and impact of executive agencies on the formation and implementation of administrative law and regulation in the United States. This includes an overview of the administrative process, a discussion of administrative power, and bureaucratic organization.

POL 450: Research Methods in Political Science

This course examines the research methods used in Political Science. Topics addressed in the course include the philosophical and theoretical foundations of social science research; ethical issues related to research and research design.

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Noemi Alexander, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Public Administration
Director of Online Education for History and Government

Office Phone: 951-343-4530
E-mail: nalexander@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: The Point-A 115

Riste Simnjanovski, D.P.A.

Professor of Public Administration

Office Phone: 951-343-3968
E-mail: rsimnjan@calbaptist.edu

Linda Marie Sundstrom, D.P.A.

Professor of Public Administration

Office Phone: 951-343-2172
E-mail: lsundstrom@calbaptist.edu

Is financial aid available to help pay for online programs?
Our online degrees offer a reputable and more affordable option for earning your bachelor’s, master's or doctorate degree. When pursuing an online degree, students are freed from the financial obligations that accompany some traditional degrees, such as room accommodations, gas and parking. Additionally, CBU has partnered with select employers to provide their employees with the opportunity to improve their career through their educational goals and receive a 20% tuition scholarship. Learn more about tuition and financial aid.

Are CBU's online programs accredited? 
California Baptist University (CBU), which includes all programs offered online, is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Many prospective students are uncertain about which college degrees employers or universities will accept. This regional accreditation by WSCUC means you can be confident that your CBU degree is recognized and respected by schools and companies across the country.

CBU Online has received various awards and has been ranked in the top 50 in the nation - best online bachelor’s degree category by U.S. News & World Report for 7 consecutive years.

What resources do I need to complete my degree online?
To complete your online degree, you will need access to a computer, Wi-Fi and a word processor like Microsoft Word. These are necessary to access the student learning system and complete your assignments. Some programs may require different resources. Check with your enrollment counselor for specific expectations upon applying for your program, or you can view additional information here.

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When you complete and submit your application to CBU, a friendly and knowledgeable admissions counselor will guide you through the admissions process and all the necessary steps to become a Lancer.

CBU accepts applications for online enrollment throughout the year, and most online degree programs can start at 6 semester entry points per calendar year.

Online Semester Classes Begin
Summer 2024 - Session 2 July 1
Fall 2024 - Session 1 September 2
Fall 2024 - Session 2 October 28
Spring 2025 - Session 1 January 6
Spring 2025 - Session 2 March 3
Summer 2025 - Session 1 May 5
Summer 2025 - Session 2 June 30

How to Apply

Career Possibilities

  • Urban Planner
  • Budget Coordinator
  • Lobbyist
  • Management Analyst

*Some career options may require further education.

Related Programs

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Next Steps

Join a growing group of accomplished alumni who earned their degree while balancing career and family goals. To begin your journey at California Baptist University and connect with your God-given calling, request more information or apply today!