Department of Public Administration

The Department of Public Administration offers a Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration and Policy degree which provides the opportunity for the comprehensive study of public administration, a Minor in Civic Engagement, a Minor in Public Administration and Policy, and a Minor in Nonprofit Management. Students completing the Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration and Policy degree may pursue professional careers in government, the nonprofit sector, or the private sector, as well as apply for admission to law or graduate schools. 

The mission of the Department of Public Administration is to prepare students for careers and leadership roles in public and nonprofit organizations and to nurture their commitment to ethical public service in a diverse society.

Bachelor of Arts Degree in Public Administration and Policy 

A Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration and Policy degree is designed to prepare students for employment in the public and nonprofit sector by giving them a broad background in the basics of administration, combined with a contemporary focus on urban management, the nonprofit sector, tools of analysis, and the role of ethics.

The minimum number of semester credit hours required for the degree, including the Core Curriculum requirements, is 120. Thirty-nine of the total semester credit hours required for the degree must be at the upper-division level.

All required and prescribed (elective) public administration (PAD) courses must be completed with a grade of "C-" or better.

All candidates seeking this degree must fulfill the Core Curriculum requirements and the degree requirements, which are listed below.

Core Curriculum Requirements (42 semester credit hours)

Students seeking the Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration and Policy must fulfill University Core Curriculum requirements. If courses are taken to satisfy both degree requirements and Core Curriculum requirements, then students may need to take additional courses in order to meet the minimum number of semester credit hours required for this degree.

For a complete listing of courses that satisfy the Core Curriculum requirements, see Core Curriculum Component Area Requirements.

Core Curriculum Component Area Requirements

First Year Experience Requirement (3 semester credit hours)

All students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:

AIS 1203Academic Introduction and Strategies (core component area 090)3
AIS 1213AIS: Architecture, Construction, and Planning (core component area 090)3
AIS 1223AIS: Arts and Humanities (core component area 090)3
AIS 1233AIS: Business (core component area 090)3
AIS 1243AIS: Engineering, Mathematics, and Sciences (core component area 090)3
AIS 1253AIS: Interdisciplinary Education (core component area 090)3
AIS 1263AIS: Life and Health Sciences (core component area 090)3
AIS 1273AIS: Social Sciences and Public Policy (core component area 090)3

Communication (6 semester credit hours)

Students must complete the following courses, for a total of 6 semester credit hours:

WRC 1013Freshman Composition I (TCCN: ENGL 1301)3
WRC 1023Freshman Composition II (TCCN: ENGL 1302)3

Mathematics (3 semester credit hours)

Students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:

CS 1173Data Analysis and Visualization3
MAT 1023College Algebra with Applications (TCCN: MATH 1314)3
MAT 1043Quantitative Reasoning (TCCN: MATH 1332)3
MAT 1053Mathematics for Business (TCCN: MATH 1324)3
MAT 1073Algebra for Scientists and Engineers (TCCN: MATH 1314)3
MAT 1093Precalculus (TCCN: MATH 2312)3
MAT 1133Calculus for Business (TCCN: MATH 1325)3
MAT 1193Calculus for the Biosciences (TCCN: MATH 2313)3
MAT 1213Calculus I (TCCN: MATH 2313)3
STA 1053Basic Statistics (TCCN: MATH 1342)3

Life and Physical Sciences (6 semester credit hours)

Students must complete two of the following courses for a total of 6 semester credit hours:

ANT 2033Introduction to Biological Anthropology (TCCN: ANTH 2301)3
AST 1013Introduction to Astronomy (TCCN: ASTR 1303)3
AST 1033Exploration of the Solar System (TCCN: ASTR 1304)3
BIO 1203Biosciences I for Science Majors (TCCN: BIOL 1306)3
BIO 1223Biosciences II for Science Majors (TCCN: BIOL 1307)3
BIO 1233Contemporary Biology I (TCCN: BIOL 1308)3
BIO 1243Contemporary Biology II (TCCN: BIOL 1309)3
CHE 1083Introduction to the Molecular Structure of Matter3
CHE 1093Introduction to Molecular Transformations3
ES 1113Environmental Botany (TCCN: BIOL 1311)3
ES 1123Environmental Zoology (TCCN: BIOL 1313)3
ES 1213Environmental Geology (TCCN: GEOL 1305)3
ES 2013Introduction to Environmental Science I (TCCN: ENVR 1301)3
ES 2023Introduction to Environmental Science II (TCCN: ENVR 1302)3
GEO 1013The Third Planet (TCCN: GEOL 1301)3
GEO 1033Geology of North American National Parks (TCCN: GEOL 1302)3
GEO 1123Life Through Time (TCCN: GEOL 1304)3
GES 2613Intro to Physical Geography (TCCN: GEOG 1301)3
NDT 2043Introduction to Nutritional Sciences3
PHY 1943Physics for Scientists and Engineers I (TCCN: PHYS 2325)3
PHY 1963Physics for Scientists and Engineers II (TCCN: PHYS 2326)3

Language, Philosophy and Culture (3 semester credit hours)

Students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:

AAS 2013Introduction to African American Studies3
AAS 2113African American Culture, Leadership and Social Issues3
ANT 2063Language, Thought, and Culture3
ARC 1113Introduction to the Built Environment (TCCN: ARCH 1311)3
ARC 2423Global History of Architecture and Urbanism: Renaissance to 19th Century (TCCN: ARCH 1302)3
CHN 1014Elementary Chinese I (TCCN: CHIN 1411)4
CLA 2013Introduction to Ancient Greece3
CLA 2023Introduction to Ancient Rome3
CLA 2323Classical Mythology3
COM 2313Introduction to Media Studies3
CSH 1103Literary Masterpieces of Western Culture I (TCCN: ENGL 2332)3
CSH 1113Literary Masterpieces of Western Culture II (TCCN: ENGL 2333)3
CSH 1213Topics in World Cultures (TCCN: HUMA 2323)3
CSH 2113The Foreign Film3
ENG 2013Introduction to Literature (TCCN: ENGL 2341)3
ENG 2023Literature and Film3
ENG 2213Literary Criticism and Analysis3
ENG 2383Multiethnic Literatures of the United States3
ENG 2423Literature of Texas and the Southwest3
ENG 2443Persuasion and Rhetoric3
FRN 1014Elementary French I (TCCN: FREN 1411)4
FRN 2333French Literature in English Translation3
GER 1014Elementary German I (TCCN: GERM 1411)4
GER 2333German Literature in English Translation3
GES 1023World Regions and Global Change (TCCN: GEOG 1303)3
GLA 1013US in Global Context3
GRK 1114Introductory Classical Greek I4
HIS 2123Introduction to World Civilization to the Fifteenth Century (TCCN: HIST 2321)3
HIS 2133Introduction to World Civilization since the Fifteenth Century (TCCN: HIST 2322)3
HIS 2533Introduction to Latin American Civilization3
HIS 2543Introduction to Islamic Civilization3
HIS 2553Introduction to East Asian Civilization3
HIS 2573Introduction to African Civilization3
HIS 2583Introduction to South Asian Civilization3
HUM 2093World Religions (TCCN: PHIL 1304)3
ITL 1014Elementary Italian I (TCCN: ITAL 1411)4
ITL 2333Italian Literature in English Translation3
JPN 1014Elementary Japanese I (TCCN: JAPN 1411)4
LAT 1114Introductory Latin I (TCCN: LATI 1411)4
MAS 2013Introduction to Chicana/x/o Studies (TCCN: HUMA 1305)3
PHI 1043Critical Thinking (TCCN: PHIL 2303)3
PHI 2013Basic Philosophical Problems (TCCN: PHIL 1301)3
PHI 2023Introduction to Ancient Philosophy (TCCN: PHIL 2316)3
PHI 2033Introduction to Early Modern Philosophy3
PHI 2093Philosophy of The Americas3
PHI 2123Contemporary Moral Issues3
RUS 1014Elementary Russian I (TCCN: RUSS 1411)4
RUS 2333Russian Literature in English Translation3
SPN 1014Elementary Spanish I (TCCN: SPAN 1411)4
SPN 2333Hispanic Literature in English Translation3
WGSS 2013Introduction to Women’s Studies3
WGSS 2023Introduction to LGBTQ Studies3

Creative Arts (3 semester credit hours)

Students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:

AHC 1113Art History: Prehistory-1350 (TCCN: ARTS 1303)3
AHC 1123Art History: 1350-Present (TCCN: ARTS 1304)3
ARC 1513Great Buildings and Cities of the World3
ARC 2413Global History of Architecture and Urbanism: Prehistory to Medieval (TCCN: ARCH 1301)3
ART 1103Introduction to Visual Arts (TCCN: ARTS 1301)3
ART 1113Image Culture3
BBL 2023Latino Cultural Expressions (TCCN: HUMA 1311)3
CLA 2033Introduction to Classical Literature3
DAN 2003Introduction to Dance (TCCN: DANC 2303)3
HUM 2023Introduction to the Humanities I (TCCN: HUMA 1301)3
HUM 2033Introduction to the Humanities II (TCCN: HUMA 1302)3
HUM 2053History of Film (TCCN: HUMA 1315)3
MAS 2023Latina/x/o Cultural Expressions (TCCN: HUMA 1311)3
MUS 2243World Music in Society3
MUS 2633American Roots Music (TCCN: MUSI 1310)3
MUS 2653Music in Culture3
MUS 2663History and Styles of Jazz (TCCN: MUSI 1310)3
MUS 2673History and Styles of Popular Music (TCCN: MUSI 1310)3
MUS 2683History and Styles of Western Art Music (TCCN: MUSI 1306)3
MUS 2713History of Recorded Music3
MUS 2733History of the American Musical Theater3
MUS 2743Music and Film3
PHI 2073Philosophy of Art3

American History (6 semester credit hours)

Students must complete two of the following courses, for a total of 6 semester credit hours:

HIS 1043United States History: Pre-Columbus to Civil War Era (TCCN: HIST 1301)3
HIS 1053United States History: Civil War Era to Present (TCCN: HIST 1302)3
HIS 2053Texas History (TCCN: HIST 2301)3

Government-Political Science (6 semester credit hours)

Students must complete two of the following courses, for a total of 6 semester credit hours:

POL 1013Introduction to American Politics (TCCN: GOVT 2305)3
and one of the following two courses:
POL 1133Texas Politics and Society (TCCN: GOVT 2306)3
POL 1213Civil Rights in Texas and America (TCCN: GOVT 2306)3

Social and Behavioral Sciences (3 semester credit hours)

Students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:

AMS 2043Approaches to American Culture3
ANT 1013Introduction to Anthropology (TCCN: ANTH 2346)3
ANT 2043Introduction to Archaeology (TCCN: ANTH 2302)3
ANT 2053Introduction to Cultural Anthropology (TCCN: ANTH 2351)3
BBL 2003Language, Culture, and Society (TCCN: ANTH 2351)3
BBL 2243Bilingual Families, Communities, and Schools: National and Transnational Experiences (TCCN: ANTH 2351)3
CRJ 1113The American Criminal Justice System (TCCN: CRIJ 1301)3
ECO 2003Economic Principles and Issues (TCCN: ECON 1301)3
ECO 2023Introductory Microeconomics (TCCN: ECON 2302)3
EGR 1343The Impact of Modern Technologies on Society3
ES 1003Survey Topics in Environmental Studies3
GES 1013Fundamentals of Geography3
GES 2623Human Geography: People, Place, Culture (TCCN: GEOG 1302)3
HTH 2413Introduction to Community and Public Health3
HTH 2513Personal Health (TCCN: PHED 1304)3
IDS 2113Society and Social Issues3
KIN 2123Exercise as Medicine (TCCN: KINE 1338)3
NDRB 1033Drugs and Society (TCCN: PHED 1346)3
PSY 1013Introduction to Psychology (TCCN: PSYC 2301)3
REGS 2003Intersectional Approaches to Social Justice3
SOC 1013Introduction to Sociology (TCCN: SOCI 1301)3
SOC 2013Social Problems (TCCN: SOCI 1306)3
SOC 2023Social Context of Drug Use (TCCN: SOCI 2340)3
SWK 1013Introduction to Social Work3

Component Area Option (CAO) (3 semester credit hours)

Students must complete either one of the following courses or any additional Core Curriculum course not previously used to satisfy a core component area requirement, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:

COM 2113Public Speaking (core component area 091, TCCN: SPCH 1315)3
EGR 1403Technical Communication (core component area 091)3
ENG 2413Technical Writing (core component area 091, TCCN: ENGL 2311)3
PAD 1113Public Administration and Policy in American Society (core component area 097)3
PHI 2043Introductory Logic (core component area 092, TCCN: PHIL 2303)3
Core Curriculum Component Area Requirements
First Year Experience Requirement 3
Communication 6
Mathematics 3
Life and Physical Sciences 6
Language, Philosophy and Culture 3
Creative Arts 3
American History 6
Government-Political Science 6
Social and Behavioral Sciences 3
Component Area Option 3
Total Credit Hours 42

Gateway Course

Students pursuing the Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration and Policy degree must successfully complete the following Gateway course with a grade of “C-” or better in no more than two attempts. A student who is unable to successfully complete this course within two attempts, including dropping the course with a grade of “W” or taking an equivalent course at another institution, will be required to change their major.

PAD 1113Public Administration and Policy in American Society

Degree Requirements

A. Core Public Administration & Policy coursework
18 semester credit hours of core Public Administration & Policy coursework:18
Public Administration and Policy in American Society
Introduction to Public Policy
Foundations of Civic Engagement
Quantitative Analysis for Public Administration and Policy
Essential Skills for a Career in Public Service (Research Capstone)
Social Demography and Public Policy
B. Prescribed courses
18 semester credit hours selected from the courses listed below:18
Geographic Information Systems for Population Analysis and Policy
Advanced Geographic Information Systems
Introduction to Geographic Information Systems
Introductory Macroeconomics
Fundraising in Nonprofit Agencies
Introduction to Urban Management and Policy
Introduction to Nonprofit Agencies
Public and Nonprofit Financial Management
Urban Economic Development
Public Sector Economics
Civic Leadership Seminar
Project Management for the Public Sector
Managing Nonprofit Organizations
Politics and Policies of San Antonio and South Texas
Administrative Law and Policy
Sustainable Community Development
Introduction to Community and Regional Planning and Urban Design
Urban Planning and Public Health
Study Abroad: International Public Administration
Managing Human Resources
Independent Study (prior approval required)
Independent Study (prior approval required)
Internship in Public Administration (prior approval required)
Internship in Public Administration (prior approval required)
Special Topics in Public Administration
Honors Thesis (prior approval required)
Introduction to Public Service Leadership and Management (Prerequisite: Undergraduate students must be enrolled in the accelerated MPA program to take this course.)
Ethics and Leadership (Prerequisite: Undergraduate students must be enrolled in the accelerated MPA program to take this course.)
Public Policy Process (Prerequisite: Undergraduate students must be enrolled in the accelerated MPA program to take this course.)
C. Upper-division support work
18 semester credit hours of upper-division support work, chosen in consultation with an academic advisor18
D. Free electives
24 semester hours of free electives (some may need to be upper division in order to meet the 39 hour University requirement)24
Total Credit Hours78

Course Sequence Guide for Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration and Policy Degree

This course sequence guide is designed to assist students in completing their UTSA undergraduate Public Administration and Policy degree requirements. This is merely a guide, and students must satisfy other requirements of this catalog and meet with their academic advisor for individualized degree plans. Progress within this guide depends upon such factors as course availability, individual student academic preparation, student time management, work obligations, and individual financial considerations. Students may choose to take courses during Summer terms to reduce course loads during long semesters.

Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration and Policy – Recommended Four-Year Academic Plan

Plan of Study Grid
First Year
FallCredit Hours
AIS 1273 AIS: Social Sciences and Public Policy 3
HIS 1043
United States History: Pre-Columbus to Civil War Era (core)
or United States History: Civil War Era to Present
or Texas History
3
PAD 1113 Public Administration and Policy in American Society 3
POL 1013 Introduction to American Politics (core) 3
WRC 1013 Freshman Composition I (core) 3
 Credit Hours15
Spring
HIS 1043
United States History: Pre-Columbus to Civil War Era (core)
or United States History: Civil War Era to Present
or Texas History
3
PAD 2073 Foundations of Civic Engagement 3
WRC 1023 Freshman Composition II (core) 3
Mathematics (core) 3
Creative Arts (core) 3
 Credit Hours15
Second Year
Fall
PAD 3163 Quantitative Analysis for Public Administration and Policy 3
Elective 3
Elective 3
Language, Philosophy & Culture (core) 3
Life & Physical Sciences (core) 3
 Credit Hours15
Spring
PAD 2013 Introduction to Public Policy 3
POL 1133
Texas Politics and Society (core)
or Civil Rights in Texas and America
3
Life & Physical Sciences (core) 3
Social & Behavioral Sciences (core) 3
Prescribed course (see degree requirement B) 3
 Credit Hours15
Third Year
Fall
Component Area Option (core) 3
Prescribed course (see degree requirement B) 3
Prescribed course (see degree requirement B) 3
Prescribed course (see degree requirement B) 3
Upper-division support work 3
 Credit Hours15
Spring
Elective 3
Elective 3
Prescribed course (see degree requirement B) 3
Upper-division support work 3
Upper-division support work 3
 Credit Hours15
Fourth Year
Fall
Elective 3
Elective 3
Prescribed course (see degree requirement B) 3
Upper-division support work 3
Upper-division support work 3
 Credit Hours15
Spring
PAD 4853 Essential Skills for a Career in Public Service (Research Capstone) 3
Elective 3
Elective 3
Prescribed course (see degree requirement B) 3
Upper-division support work 3
 Credit Hours15
 Total Credit Hours120

Accelerated Master of Public Administration

The Accelerated Master of Public Administration (AMPA) Program is an alternate path to the MPA degree. It allows students who successfully complete MPA courses in the Public Administration Department as undergraduates to earn the MPA degree with 30 credit hours instead of the normal 39 credit hours.

In order to apply, and be considered for admission to the AMPA upon completion of the undergraduate degree, current UTSA undergraduate students must first be accepted as an AMPA candidate. This requires the submission of a packet to the UTSA Public Administration Department Chair that includes:  

  • A letter of intent to the Public Administration Department Chair, stating why you are interested in this pathway to the AMPA program. This must include your name, major, expected graduation date, and Banner ID. 
  • A letter of support for your candidacy from a UTSA professor with whom you have taken an upper-division class in any Department.

To be eligible for consideration as a candidate, students must meet the following criteria:

  • Completed 60-90 hours of undergraduate coursework at the time the packet is submitted.
  • GPA of 3.0 or above.
  • Candidacy status is open to all UTSA majors, but students are responsible for ensuring that the MPA courses taken as an undergraduate will be accepted into their undergraduate program of study. For Bachelor of Public Administration and Policy students, the three MPA courses will count in section B., Prescribed Courses, of the degree requirements. 

If accepted as a candidate, the student will enroll in these three MPA courses during their final year in their undergraduate program: PAD 5003PAD 5303, and PAD 5323.

If those courses are successfully completed with a grade of B or better, students may then apply to the AMPA program, per the instructions in the UTSA Graduate Catalog.

Minor in Civic Engagement

Through the Minor in Civic Engagement students learn about community challenges and prepare to play a leadership role in effecting social change. In the required courses students actively participate in the local community through service learning projects. The elective courses allow students to explore the diversity of our communities and the systems that affect communities. This interdisciplinary minor is open to all majors in the University.

All students seeking the Minor in Civic Engagement must complete 18 semester credit hours.

A. Required courses:6
Foundations of Civic Engagement
Civic Leadership Seminar
B. Electives:
Students must complete 12 hours of electives.12
Students may choose from the list below or take any service-learning designated course.
Black Communities and Culture
Doing Black Studies Research
Civil Rights Movement and African American Education
African Americans in Higher Education
Studies in Race and Ethnicity
Studies in Gender and Sexuality
Anthropology and the Environment
Sex, Gender, and Culture
Political and Legal Anthropology
Applied Anthropology
Food, Culture, and Society
Environmental Systems
Air Force Leadership and Communication Studies I
Air Force Leadership and Communication Studies II
Mexican Americans in the Southwest
Mexican American Culture
Ecology
Plants and Society
Conservation Biology
Wildlife Ecology
Water and Wastewater Treatment
Introduction to Health Communication
Global Health Communication
Intercultural Communication
Health Communication Campaigns
Health Communication Practicum
Managing Criminal Justice Organizations
Community Corrections
Juvenile Justice
Restorative Justice
Race, Ethnicity, and Criminal Justice
Social Demography and Public Policy
Health Economics and Policy
Economics of Public and Social Issues
Development Economics
Environmental Remediation
Watershed Processes
Environmental Law
Wildflower Identification
Natural Resource Policy and Administration
Introduction to Sustainability
Renewable Energy
Restoration Ecology
Wildlife Management
Geography of Texas
Cultural Geography
Introduction to Geographic Information Systems
Population Geography
Urban Geography
Geography of Local Economic Activity
Conservation of Resources
Political Geography
Gender and Cities: An Introduction to Feminist Geography
Climate Change
History of San Antonio
History of the Civil Rights Movement
Honors Service
Honors Seminar in Arts & Humanities
Honors Professional Development
Honors Cultural Exploration
Honors Cultural Exploration
Citymester: City Sites
Survey of Drugs and Health
Theories of Health Behavior
Community Health
Diversity, Equity, and the Social Sciences
Chicana/x Queer Communities, Identities and Theories
Mexican Americans in the Southwest
Training Management and the Warfighting Functions
Applied Leadership in Small Unit Operations
Introduction to Public Policy
Fundraising in Nonprofit Agencies
Introduction to Urban Management and Policy
Introduction to Nonprofit Agencies
Urban Economic Development
Managing Nonprofit Organizations
Politics and Policies of San Antonio and South Texas
Archer: Policy-Making Process
Archer: Politics of National Memory
Archer: Advocacy and Politics
Essential Skills for a Career in Public Service (Research Capstone)
Internship in Public Administration
Internship in Public Administration
Minorities and the Law
Issues in Law and Society
Women in Politics
Political Movements
Urban Development: Politics Planning, and Power
Multicultural Psychology
Social Psychology of Prejudice
Social Stratification
Race and Ethnic Relations
Social Change and Development
Religion and Society
Families in Society
Gerontology
Population Dynamics and Demographic Techniques
Latinas in U.S. Society
Sociology of Gender
Sociology of the Mexican American Community
Culture and Society
Health Disparities
Introduction to Community and Regional Planning and Urban Design
Comparative Urban and Regional Development
Sustainable Community Development
Urban Planning and Public Health
Feminist Theories
Transnational Feminisms
Total Credit Hours18

To declare a Minor in Civic Engagement, obtain advice, obtain lists of relevant courses, or seek approval of substitutions for course requirements, students should consult with their academic advisor.

Minor in Nonprofit Management

The Minor in Nonprofit Management is open to students in any ­discipline. The Minor in Nonprofit Management provides the opportunity for students to learn the characteristics of the nonprofit sector, the purpose of the nonprofit sector in American society, and basic management and fundraising techniques. Students will be provided the opportunity to prepare themselves for leadership positions in social service, youth, environmental, health, arts, senior, and other nonprofit organizations.

All required and prescribed (elective) public administration (PAD) courses must be completed with a grade of "C-" or better.

All students seeking the Minor in Nonprofit Management must complete 18 semester credit hours.

A. Required courses:6
Fundraising in Nonprofit Agencies
Introduction to Nonprofit Agencies
B. 12 semester credit hours selected from the courses listed below:12
Introduction to Public Policy
Foundations of Civic Engagement
Introduction to Organization Theory, Behavior, and Management
Introduction to Urban Management and Policy
Public and Nonprofit Financial Management
Urban Economic Development
Project Management for the Public Sector
Civic Leadership Seminar
Politics and Policies of San Antonio and South Texas
Administrative Law and Policy
Managing Human Resources
Tools and Objectives of the Social Enterprise
Health Disparities
Study Abroad: International Public Administration
Internship in Public Administration (prior approval required)
Internship in Public Administration (prior approval required)
Special Topics in Public Administration
Essential Skills for a Career in Public Service (Research Capstone)
Total Credit Hours18

Students should not take PAD 4933 Internship in Public Administration or PAD 4936 Internship in Public Administration until they have completed 9 hours in the minor. To declare a Minor in Nonprofit Management, obtain advice, obtain lists of relevant courses, or seek approval of substitutions for course requirements, students should consult with their academic advisor.

Minor in Public Administration and Policy

The Minor in Public Administration and Policy is open to students in any discipline. The minor provides undergraduate students with foundational knowledge of the public sector. This includes fundamentals of public leadership and management, the meaning of public service in a diverse society, ethical decision-making, and the practice of policy formation and implementation. All students seeking the Minor in Public Administration and Policy must complete 18 semester credit hours. 

All required and prescribed (elective) public administration (PAD) courses must be completed with a grade of "C-" or better.

A. Required courses:9
Public Administration and Policy in American Society
Introduction to Public Policy
Foundations of Civic Engagement
B. 9 upper-division semester credit hours selected from the courses listed below:9
Fundraising in Nonprofit Agencies
Introduction to Urban Management and Policy
Introduction to Nonprofit Agencies
Public and Nonprofit Financial Management
Urban Economic Development
Public Sector Economics
Civic Leadership Seminar
Project Management for the Public Sector
Managing Nonprofit Organizations
Politics and Policies of San Antonio and South Texas
Administrative Law and Policy
Quantitative Analysis for Public Administration and Policy
Archer: Policy-Making Process
Archer: Advocacy and Politics
Study Abroad: International Public Administration
Independent Study (prior approval required)
Independent Study (prior approval required)
Internship in Public Administration (prior approval required)
Internship in Public Administration (prior approval required)
Special Topics in Public Administration
Honors Thesis (prior approval required)
Social Demography and Public Policy
Essential Skills for a Career in Public Service (Research Capstone)
Total Credit Hours18

To declare a Minor in Public Administration and Policy, obtain advice, obtain lists of relevant courses, or seek approval of substitutions for course requirements, students should consult with their academic advisor.

Certificate in Public Policy and Data Analysis

This certificate program prepares students to address policy challenges and to lead in data-driven decision-making in the private, public and nonprofit sectors. Sound public policy requires a thorough analysis of the root causes of problems and the drivers of meaningful change. Students in this certificate program will learn to use data to define, understand, and solve problems in our community. Students will be able to effectively communicate and influence decision-making using evidence-based policy proposals. By learning evaluation techniques, students will be better equipped to improve program and service delivery. 

This is an interdisciplinary program administered by the Department of Public Administration. The certificate includes courses currently offered in Public Administration, Criminology and Criminal Justice, Demography, Political Science, Public Health, and Sociology.

This certificate program is open to all majors in the University. Courses taken in the certificate program may be applied to a B.S. or B.A. degree, depending on program requirements and with approval of the undergraduate advisor of record of the degree program. Students not currently enrolled in any UTSA degree program can apply as a non-degree-seeking special student at the undergraduate level to pursue this certificate. 

Students pursuing the Certificate in Public Policy and Data Analysis must complete 15 semester credit hours as follows:

A. Required courses:6
Introduction to Public Policy
Quantitative Analysis for Public Administration and Policy 1
B. Public Policy courses:3
Select one course from the following list:
Introduction to Urban Management and Policy
Politics and Policies of San Antonio and South Texas
Administrative Law and Policy
Justice and Social Policy
The Legislative Process
Archer: Policy-Making Process
Archer: Advocacy and Politics
C. Data Analysis courses:6
Select two courses from the following list:
Geographic Information Systems for Population Analysis and Policy
Social Demography and Public Policy
Introduction to Geographic Information Systems
Advanced Geographic Information Systems
Database Management in Community and Public Health
Population Dynamics and Demographic Techniques
Qualitative Research Methods
Total Credit Hours15
1

Advising Note: Students may substitute an upper-division Quantitative Research Methods course from their degree program for PAD 3163.

Public Administration (PAD) Courses

PAD 1113. Public Administration and Policy in American Society. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

This functions as the general introductory course in public administration. The management of government bureaucracies including organization, human resources, career systems, and financing is discussed. There is a discussion of the role of bureaucracies in modern society in the formulation and implementation of public policy. May be applied toward Core Curriculum requirement in the Component Area Option. (Formerly Public Administration in American Society.) Generally offered: Fall, Spring. Course Fees: LRC1 $12; LRHC $10; STHC $18; DL01 $75.

PAD 2013. Introduction to Public Policy. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

The course introduces students to the different aspects of public policy in the U.S. political context. Topics may include agenda setting, policy formulation, implementation, analysis, and evaluation. (Formerly PAD 3013. Credit cannot be earned for both PAD 3013 and PAD 2013.) Generally offered: Fall, Spring. Course Fee: STHC $18; DL01 $75; LRHC $10.

PAD 2073. Foundations of Civic Engagement. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

This foundational course provides students with an understanding of civic participation, civic literacy and the necessary skill set for completion of the minor. It is designed to guide students in making links between their major area of study and the communities in which they work and live in order to help prepare students for a lifetime of responsible citizenship and civic engagement. Course Fee: STHC $18; DL01 $75; LRHC $10.

PAD 3003. Fundraising in Nonprofit Agencies. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Examines methods, techniques, and directed experience in fundraising for nonprofit agencies. Explores relationships with umbrella organizations, government funding, grantsmanship, budget control, and accountability. (Formerly NPO 3003. Credit cannot be earned for both PAD 3003 and NPO 3003.) Course Fee: STHC $18; DL01 $75; LRHC $10.

PAD 3023. Introduction to Urban Management and Policy. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

This course will introduce students to the basic concepts of the management of urban municipalities. Topics to be covered may include leadership in urban settings; organizational structure and change; delivery of urban services, particularly in a diverse urban environment; and policy issues in urban settings. Generally offered: Fall, Spring. Course Fee: STHC $18; DL01 $75; LRHC $10.

PAD 3033. Introduction to Nonprofit Agencies. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

This survey course introduces the nonprofit sector and core competencies required by nonprofit leaders. The role of nonprofit organizations in civil society frames the course, in particular, how the nonprofit sector is different from the public and private sectors. The state of the sector, and fundamental principles and practices required by nonprofit managers are explored, including creating a nonprofit, basics of fundraising, marketing, volunteer management, program development, and evaluation. Group and individual projects, service learning, research conducted for specific nonprofit agencies, oral presentations, networking, and construction of a portfolio of nonprofit work experiences and deliverables may be utilized. (Same as NPO 3013. Credit cannot be earned for both PAD 3033 and NPO 3013.) Generally offered: Fall, Spring. Course Fee: STHC $18; DL01 $75; LRHC $10.

PAD 3043. Public and Nonprofit Financial Management. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

This course introduces students to the principles of financial management for public and nonprofit organizations. The public financial management component of the course will cover issues at the federal, state, and local levels of government. Topics will include budgeting, financial reporting, revenue streams, tax equity, stakeholder relations, and accountability. Generally offered: Spring. Course Fee: STHC $18; DL01 $75; LRHC $10.

PAD 3053. Urban Economic Development. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

This course examines the factors contributing to the economic growth or decline of U.S. cities or regions and the role of local government in shaping economic development policies and economic change. Students will analyze the social impact of economic development, including quality of life for residents and community well-being. It reviews the impact of public sector incentives and the outcomes of collaborative efforts between government agencies, corporations, and nonprofit organizations through case studies of a variety of urban areas. Course Fee: STHC $18; DL01 $75; LRHC $10.

PAD 3063. Public Sector Economics. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

This course examines the role that government plays in the economy and its effects on the welfare of its citizens. The efficiency and equity of government expenditures and tax policies are examined by looking at their impact on individual behavior and the distribution of income. Among the topics covered are public goods, externalities, social security, health care reform, public assistance programs, and taxation. Course fees: LRHC $10; STHC $18.

PAD 3073. Civic Leadership Seminar. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: PAD 2073. This course is the capstone course for the Minor in Civic Engagement. It will engage students, actively in the San Antonio community through a service-learning experience. Course Fee: STHC $18; DL01 $75; LRHC $10.

PAD 3083. Project Management for the Public Sector. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

This course will introduce key concepts of project management from the perspective of public agencies and institutions that contract with those agencies. This course will cover project management methodology and tools to successfully manage large-scale projects. Students will learn how to meet project goals on time and within the allocated budget. The course will cover how to effectively engage stakeholders to maximize project success. Topics may also include risk management, oversight, problem-solving, and government procurement and contracting. Students will learn about the role of a project manager and related public service careers. Course fees: LRHC $10; STHC $18.

PAD 3113. Managing Nonprofit Organizations. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

This course focuses on leading nonprofit organizations. Students will consider organizational performance and client/community engagement in order to maximize the public value of nonprofit organizations. In light of efforts to foster inclusion and representation, students will learn about recruiting staff and volunteers and strategically composing board memberships. Topics will include organizational goal setting, program management/evaluation, community awareness/advocacy, and decision-making through collaborative models. Course Fee: LRHC $10; STHC $18.

PAD 3133. Politics and Policies of San Antonio and South Texas. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

The San Antonio area has been shaped and built by an array of decisions, public and private. This course will examine the history and development of the area and the political, social, and economic forces that have defined the local policymaking process by city, county, and special purpose governments. Topics may include fiscal policy, public investment policies, urban revitalization, and transportation. Course Fee: LRHC $10; STHC $18.

PAD 3153. Administrative Law and Policy. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

This course covers the legal framework for creating and implementing public policy, at all governmental levels. It includes an overview of the authority of legislative bodies to formulate laws and policies, as well as the rules that govern the implementation of these laws and policies by administrative bodies. The course will also cover the authority of courts to review and/or overturn laws and policies. (Formerly titled Introduction to Public Law.) Course Fee: STHC $18; DL01 $75; LRHC $10.

PAD 3163. Quantitative Analysis for Public Administration and Policy. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: Any 3-semester-credit-hour Mathematics core course. This course will introduce students to the nature and practice of evaluation in the public and nonprofit sectors, and to the basic skills necessary to understand and conduct such evaluations. This course covers collecting, organizing, analyzing, and presenting information. (Formerly PAD 2153. Credit cannot be earned for both PAD 3163 and PAD 2153.) Generally offered: Spring. Course Fee: STHC $18; DL01 $75; LRHC $10.

PAD 3513. Archer: Policy-Making Process. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: Enrollment in the UT System Archer Fellows Program. This course will focus on the role of Congress and the President in the policy-making process. The course will use a variety of sources (academic texts, newspaper and journal articles, Web sites, blogs, and advocacy papers) to compare textbook and "real world" versions of how policy is made in Washington, D.C. Formerly HON 3513. Credit cannot be earned for both HON 3513 and PAD 3513. Generally offered: Fall, Spring.

PAD 3523. Archer: Politics of National Memory. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: Enrollment in the UT System Archer Fellows Program. This course is designed to help students understand power in our nation's capital and, especially, power that lies outside Congress and the White House. Students will study Washington, D.C., by making visits to local sites as they examine complex issues, such as the use of DDT to combat malaria, the relationship between democracy and war, and the future of the Internet. (Formerly HON 3523. Credit cannot be earned for both HON 3523 and PAD 3523.) Generally offered: Fall, Spring.

PAD 3533. Archer: Advocacy and Politics. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: Enrollment in the UT System Archer Fellows Program. This course will provide an introduction to the issues individuals face when placed in the role of being advocates for an issue, idea, or even themselves. The goal of the course is for students to learn about advocacy in ways they can apply to their internship settings. Formerly HON 3533. Credit cannot be earned for both HON 3533 and PAD 3533. Generally offered: Fall, Spring.

PAD 4843. Study Abroad: International Public Administration. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. A lecture/seminar course associated with a study abroad program related to the study and practice of comparative governance. Involves international travel and field trips. May be repeated for credit when the destination country varies. Course Fee: LRHC $10; STHC $18.

PAD 4853. Essential Skills for a Career in Public Service (Research Capstone). (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: Should be taken in the senior year or with consent of instructor. The course provides an opportunity for students to develop essential skills for careers in public service. Students consider their career and educational plans after graduation, and gain tools to prepare them for a successful job search. Students then strengthen the following skills: research, writing, critical analysis of contemporary policy issues, and communicating research findings. This is the capstone course for the Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration and Policy degree but is also open to students in other majors. Generally offered: Fall, Spring. Course Fee: STHC $18; DL01 $75; LRHC $10.

PAD 4911. Independent Study. (0-0) 1 Credit Hour.

Prerequisite: Prior approval required, Independent Study Course Form (available in the department or college advising center) signed by the instructor, the student’s undergraduate advisor, Department Chair, and Dean of the College for Health, Community and Policy. Independent reading, research, discussion, and/or writing under the direction of a faculty member. May be repeated once for credit, but not more than 6 semester credit hours of independent study, regardless of discipline, will apply to a bachelor's degree. Course Fee: LHRC $10; STHC $6.

PAD 4913. Independent Study. (0-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: Prior approval required; Independent Study Course Form (available in the department or college advising center) signed by the instructor, the student’s undergraduate advisor, Department Chair, and Dean of the College for Health, Community and Policy. Independent reading, research, discussion, and/or writing under the direction of a faculty member. May be repeated once for credit, but not more than 6 semester credit hours of independent study, regardless of discipline, will apply to a bachelor’s degree. Course Fee: LRHC $10; STHC $18.

PAD 4933. Internship in Public Administration. (0-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: PAD 1113 and PAD 2013; Students must secure an internship placement and seek approval of the Internship Coordinator prior to registering for this course; Contact the Internship Coordinator for support with placements. Supervised experience in an administrative setting that provides the opportunity to integrate theory and practice in public or nonprofit-related agencies. May be repeated for credit in a subsequent semester, but not more than 6 semester credit hours will apply to a bachelor’s degree. Generally offered: Fall, Spring, Summer. Course Fee: STHC $18.

PAD 4936. Internship in Public Administration. (0-0) 6 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: PAD 1113 and PAD 2013; students must secure an internship placement and seek approval of the Internship Coordinator prior to registering for this course; contact the Internship Coordinator for support with placements. Supervised experience in an administrative setting that provides the opportunity to integrate theory and practice in public or nonprofit-related agencies. No more than 6 semester credit hours will apply to a bachelor’s degree. Course Fee: STHC $36.

PAD 4963. Special Topics in Public Administration. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

An organized course offering the opportunity for specialized study not normally or not often available as part of regular course offerings. Special Topics may be repeated for credit when topics vary, but not more than 6 semester credit hours, regardless of discipline, will apply to a bachelor’s degree. (Formerly titled "Special Topics in Urban Management Policy.") Course Fee: STHC $18.

PAD 4993. Honors Thesis. (0-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: Enrollment limited to candidates for Honors in Public Administration during the last two semesters; completion of honors examination and approval by the honors program coordinator. Supervised research and preparation of an honors thesis. May be repeated once with advisor’s approval. Course Fee: LRHC $10; STHC $18.