Public Administration, AS
Public Administration Department
Program Overview
Public Administration, AS
Our A.S. in Public Administration is your fast-track, two-year foundation. You’ll master core management concepts, gain essential computer skills, and get exposed to the inner workings of government and non-profit organizations.
HEGIS Code: 5508.00
NYSED Program Code: 02297 – PA-AS
Major
Description
Are you a natural leader who wants to make a difference in your city, state, or even the world? The Associate of Science (A.S.) in Public Administration is the perfect path! This program isn’t about working for private companies—it’s about learning how governments, non-profits, and agencies are run smoothly and fairly.
You’ll gain crucial skills in Public Service, management, and policy, preparing you to tackle big issues like budgets, urban planning, and public safety. You’ll learn to manage people and resources, understand how NYS and Local Government works, and even explore the operations of Global Institutions. Plus, the required Internship puts you right into a professional environment! If you want a career that truly serves the public good, this degree is your starting point.
Student
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:
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Explain Foundations of Public Administration and Policy: Students will be able to describe the basic principles, structures, and functions of public administration and explain how public policies are developed and implemented at the local, state, and introductory global levels. -
Apply Foundational Management and Organizational Skills: Students will be able to apply introductory management, organizational, and administrative skills to address basic challenges in public and nonprofit settings, including consideration of ethical and legal responsibilities. -
Demonstrate Professional and Technical Readiness: Students will be able to demonstrate essential workplace competencies—including communication, teamwork, digital literacy, and professional behavior—through coursework and experiential learning such as internships. -
Prepare for Transfer and Continued Study in Public Administration: Students will be able to demonstrate the foundational knowledge, academic skills, and applied experiences necessary for successful transfer to a bachelor’s degree program in public administration or a related field.
Major
Requirements
As part of your degree, you must fulfill the CUNY Pathways general education requirements, which consist of the Common Core (Required and Flexible) and the Medgar Evers College Option. These courses provide the essential quantitative, scientific, and socio-cultural literacy that complements your technical training.
Required Core Courses (11-12 Total Courses)
To earn your A.S. in Public Administration, you need to complete the following required courses and electives. These classes will build your foundation in leadership and public service!
You must complete ALL of the following core courses:
- Introductory Skills: CIS 101, CIS 261, LIB 100, FS 101
- Public Service & Law PA 103, PA 150 OR PA 260
- Management & Policy: PA 205 OR PA 214, PA 211, PA 225
- Global & Internship: PA 285, PA 290
Elective Courses (Minimum 9 Credits)
You must earn at least 9 credits by choosing a combination of the following courses:
- Public Administration Electives: Choose courses from the approved list of Public Administration electives.
- Other Elective Options: You can choose from CIS 211, LAW 208 or use FS 101/LIB 100 again if permitted by an advisor.
Degree Map
Ready to map out your career in public service? The Degree Map below is a suggestion for your two-year plan! It shows you exactly how can schedule your core Public Administration courses (like Constitutional Law and Global Institutions) along with your General Education requirements, making sure you graduate on time and ready for a great job!
Have Questions? We’re Here to Help
If you have questions regarding the Department of Public Administration or need assistance navigating the application process, please reach out to our department office.
Chairperson: Wallace Ford II | wford@mec.cuny.edu
Phone: 718 270-5067 Fax: 718 270-5181
Location: 1650 Bedford Avenue, B-2015 F