Online Public Policy and Administration Degree

Online Public Policy and Administration Degree

Public Policy and Administration generally refer to action (or inaction) taken by governments. In a Public Policy degree program you will learn about the decision-making process when it comes to regulatory measures and/or laws.


Additionally, you will be able to analyze current public policy and advocate for changes that would improve current policy.

While a degree in Public Policy and Administration can prepare you for a wide range of public service careers in the government, non-profit NGOs, or consulting firms, you will also walk away with a handful of great transferrable skills.

Some of those skills include better critical thinking, communication abilities, decision making, and business ethics.

Degree Choices

BA, MA, MPP (Master's of Public Policy), MPA (Master's of Public Administration) PhD. Getting a Bachelor's in Public Policy and Administration might be enough to get you in some entry positions. However, the best job prospects can be found at the Master's and PhD level if you intend to work with the Federal Government or a University.

For those just starting out in Public Policy and Administration, some of the basic coursework you may encounter in many programs include: Introduction to Public Policy and Administration, Research in Public Policy and Administration, Political Environment of Policy Making and Quantitative Methods in Public Policy and Administration.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that most jobs in Public Policy and Administration are found in the federal government- for that reason- depending on the sensitivity of the position- a security clearance may be required.

Career and Salary Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Statistics, there are a wide range of salaries available for those with a Public Policy and Administration degree. The range falls between around $55,000 to as high as $92,000 annually. Economists enjoy salaries at the top of the range, second only after Political Scientists. Social scientists hover nearer to the bottom of the pay range scale.

Additionally, According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the growth rate for public policy and administration jobs- again, depending on your chosen career path- is predicted to be 5 10% over the next decade.