Online Master of Business Administration Public Administration

Analyzes the interaction of individual, group, and organizational dynamics that influence human behavior in organizations and determine appropriate management approaches to foster a productive work environment. Examines a variety of theories, models and strategies used to understand motivation and individual behavior, decision making, the dynamics of groups, work teams, communication, leadership, power and politics, conflict resolution, work design, organizational structure and culture and managing change. Provides a conceptual base for managers to interpret, assess and influence human behavior in an organization.

Examines the strategic management process and implementation of successful business strategies in the highly competitive and dynamic global environment. Analyzes the impact of technology, government policy, and world economic and political forces on strategy formulation and execution. Analytic, integrative, and decision-making skills will be exercised through the use of case analysis and decision-making that will involve the core business functions, leadership challenges and global operations.

Examine the structure, functions and processes of the executive branch agencies of national, state and local governments, and of the nonprofit sector. Discuss the historical development of the field of public administration and the social/political context of its formation. Survey organizational and management practice, and apply efficiency and accountability concepts to public and nonprofit administration. Analyze the size and scope of the nonprofit sector, and explore the similarities and differences between the nonprofit and public sectors.

Examine key financial institutions, processes and techniques relating to public budgeting, revenue and expenditure. Cover analytical techniques appropriate for the analysis of revenue, spending and debt issuance. Review stages of the budget process and related actors and analytical techniques using the federal budget process as a case study. Discuss performance-laden budget reforms, governmental accounting, debt management and financial reporting. Review principles of taxation and evaluate major sources of revenue and their significance.

Review the political, social and economic factors influencing policy analysis. Analyze and resolve practical problems within policy issues facing the federal, state, local and nonprofit sectors. Examine quantitative and qualitative methods, processes and concepts of public policy analysis and develop skills in applying critical thinking, analytical techniques and various forms of structured analytical writing and communications. Discuss the role and ethical dimensions of policy analysis in the policy-making process.