The Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Public Administration program at GOU is designed to provide Learners with a foundation in the core and concentration subject areas of Public Administration and deepen their understanding and knowledge in the field. The program equips our Learners with high-impact in-demand skills and competencies that enhance their knowledge and expertise in Public Administration.
In addition to acquiring the requisite knowledge and competencies in the core subject areas of the Program, Graduates of this Program will also gain entrepreneurial skills, expertise, experience, and knowledge/know-how to empower them to set up 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR) compliant business enterprises and corporations relating to their vocation, profession, area of expertise or competency.
Online
Associate Degree: 12-24 months Bachelor’s Degree: 36 – 48 months
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January 2025
September 2025
English
The program provides Learners with in-depth knowledge and skills in the field of Public Administration and equips them with the requisite professional skills and competencies in this continuously evolving field. Learners on the program are able to acquire the requisite knowledge and job-relevant in-demand skills and competencies in Public Administration that prepares them to embark on a professional career in this field of expertise.
The ACTIVEclassTM Mode of Delivery of this Program lays less emphasis on teaching or instruction. Learners are encouraged and empowered to develop and acquire their Program-specific SEEKTM (skills, expertise, experience, and know-how) through the innovative LKDATM (Learn, Know, Do, Acquire) approach
The Program provides Learners with in-depth knowledge and understanding of the core, concentration, and specialization subject areas of the Program to enable them develop and acquire the relevant Program-specific SEEKTM through actively engaging in the Learning-by-Involvement (LbI) and Knowing-by-Doing (KbD) activity-based learner-initiative-intensity-activeness LKDATM-Outcome AATs (actions, activities, and tasks).
The LKDATM– Outcome ACTIVEclassTM Mode of Program Delivery
The Program is ACTIVEclassTM Compliant whereby the instructional delivery approach is designed to facilitate, support, and empower the active engagement of Learners in the process of developing and acquiring their Program-specific SEEKTM (skills, expertise, experience, and know-how).
ACTIVEclassTM Instructors are, therefore, not at the center of the teaching-instruction-learning process. They focus on introducing the subject matter of instruction, mapping out and guiding Learners through learner-initiative-intensity-activeness LKDATM (Learn, Know, Do, Acquire) Outcome AATs (actions, activities, and tasks).
ACTIVEclassTM Learners are therefore encouraged and empowered to play an active engagement role in contributing to their SEEKTM (skills, expertise, experience, and knowledge/know-how) development and acquisition process through actively engaging in the Learning-by-Involvement (LbI) and Knowing-by-Doing (KbD) activity-based LDKATM Outcomes AATs (activities, actions, and tasks).
| Number of Modules | Credit Per Module | Total Credit Hours | |
|---|---|---|---|
| University Foundation Modules | 5 | 4 | 20 |
| Core Subject Modules | 8 | 4 | 32 |
| Concentration Modules | 7 | 4 | 28 |
| Total | 20 | 80 |
| Number of Modules | Credit Per Module | Total Credit Hours | |
|---|---|---|---|
| University Foundation Modules | 5 | 4 | 20 |
| Core Subject Modules | 8 | 4 | 32 |
| Concentration Modules | 12 | 4 | 48 |
| Specialization Modules | 15 | 4 | 60 |
| Capstone Projects | 2 | 4 | 8 |
| Total | 42 | 168 |
All modules of this Program will be delivered in English. Therefore, English language proficiency is required for admission to this Program. Applicants who need to improve their English to the required proficiency level can enroll in the GOU English Language Proficiency Course
A Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Public Administration offers a comprehensive
understanding of public governance and management theories, principles, and
practices. Pursuing this degree at GOU equips you with the knowledge and skills
necessary to excel in various roles within the public sector, non-profit organizations,
and government agencies. Let us explore the key aspects of pursuing this program at
GOU, including program overview, choosing the right program, determining if it is
the best fit for you, skill development, career prospects, and future trends.
The BSc in Public Administration program at GOU focuses on the study of public
sector institutions, policies, and governance processes. The program covers a wide
range of subjects, including public policy analysis, organizational behavior, financial
management, ethics, and public law. Students gain a deep understanding of the
challenges and complexities of public administration, including topics such as public
budgeting, policy implementation, intergovernmental relations, and strategic
management in the public sector. Through coursework, case studies, internships, and
practical projects, students develop the necessary skills to navigate the dynamic
landscape of public administration.
Before pursuing a BSc in Public Administration, it is important to consider if it aligns
with your interests, strengths, and career goals. Ask yourself:
Are you interested in public affairs and governance?
Are you passionate about addressing societal issues and contributing to the
public good?
Are you drawn to the workings of government and public sector
organizations?
Do you enjoy analyzing policies, managing resources, and solving complex
problems?
Are you interested in working in government agencies, non-profit
organizations, or public service positions?
Are you a good communicator and collaborator willing to work with diverse
stakeholders?
If you answered "yes" to these questions and have a genuine interest in public
administration and its impact on society, the BSc in Public Administration program
could be an excellent fit for you. It is important to have a passion for public service, a
commitment to ethical practices, and a desire to positively impact public policy and
governance.
Choosing the right program is crucial to ensure that GOU's BSc in Public
Administration program aligns with your interests, strengths, and career goals.
Research the program and its curriculum to better understand the courses offered,
opportunities for internships or practical projects, and connections with government
agencies and public sector organizations. Explore the resources available at GOU,
such as research centers, policy institutes, or student organizations focused on public
administration.
A BSc in Public Administration equips students with a diverse range of skills required
in the field. Students develop expertise in the following areas:
Public Policy Analysis:
o Analyzing and evaluating public policies and their impact on society.
o Conducting research and using evidence to inform policy decisions.
o Understanding the policy-making process and stakeholder engagement.
Organizational Management:
o Understanding the principles of organizational behavior and
management in the public sector.
o Developing skills in strategic planning, decision-making, and resource
allocation.
o Implementing effective organizational structures and processes.
Financial Management:
o Understanding public budgeting and financial management principles.
o Analyzing and interpreting financial data and making informed
budgetary decisions.
o Ensuring accountability and transparency in financial practices.
Legal and Ethical Frameworks:
o Understanding the legal and ethical dimensions of public
administration.
o Applying legal frameworks and ethical principles to decision-making
and governance.
o Promoting integrity, fairness, and accountability in public service.
Intergovernmental Relations:
o Analyzing the relationships between different levels of government.
o Understanding the dynamics of federal, state, and local governance.
o Collaborating and coordinating efforts across government entities.
Communication and Collaboration:
o Effective verbal and written communication skills for engaging with
diverse stakeholders.
o Building collaborative relationships and fostering teamwork.
o Developing negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
The program at GOU emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills,
enabling students to excel in various roles within the public sector.
The career prospects for graduates of a BSc in Public Administration are diverse, with
opportunities in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and public service
positions. Some potential career paths include:
1. Public Administrator:
o Description: Public administrators work in government agencies at
various levels, managing programs, implementing policies, and
ensuring efficient delivery of public services.
o Skill Requirements:
Knowledge of public policy and governance principles
Strong organizational and management skills
Analytical and problem-solving abilities
Effective communication and collaboration skills
2. Policy Analyst:
o Description: Policy analysts conduct research, analyze data, and
evaluate policies to provide recommendations for improving public
programs and initiatives.
o Skill Requirements:
Proficiency in policy analysis and research methods
Critical thinking and data analysis skills
Strong written and oral communication abilities
3. Non-Profit Manager:
o Description: Non-profit managers oversee the operations and activities
of non-profit organizations, including program management,
fundraising, and community engagement.
o Skill Requirements:
Knowledge of non-profit management principles
Leadership and organizational skills
Fundraising and grant writing abilities
4. Government Relations Specialist:
o Description: Government relations specialists work in advocacy
organizations or corporations and engage with government officials to
influence policies and regulations.
o Skill Requirements:
Understanding of government processes and regulations
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Political awareness and networking abilities
5. Public Policy Consultant:
o Description: Public policy consultants provide expert advice and
guidance to government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private
companies on policy development and implementation.
o Skill Requirements:
In-depth knowledge of policy analysis and development
Consulting and project management skills
Ability to work with diverse clients and stakeholders
These are just a few examples, and there are many other career paths available to
graduates of a BSc in Public Administration. The demand for professionals in this
field remains steady as government agencies and organizations continue to address
complex societal challenges.
Public administration is an evolving field, influenced by changing societal needs,
technological advancements, and global trends. Some emerging trends in public
administration include:
Digital Transformation: The integration of technology in public administration
processes, such as e-governance, data analytics, and digital service delivery.
Collaborative Governance: Increased emphasis on collaboration and
partnerships between government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the
private sector to address complex challenges.
Sustainability and Resilience: Public administrators are increasingly focused
on sustainable development, environmental protection, and building resilient
communities.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Enhancing diversity, promoting equity, and
ensuring inclusivity in policy-making and public service delivery.
Ethical Leadership: Emphasis on ethical leadership, integrity, and transparency
in public administration practices.
Global Perspective: Public administrators are required to have a global outlook
and understanding of international policies and governance issues.
Staying informed about these trends and acquiring the necessary skills will help
public administrators adapt to the changing landscape and contribute effectively to
public service.
On completion of this Program at GOU, graduates will have the requisite skills,
expertise, experience, and know-how to, in addition to being well-prepared to excel in
a variety of the existing career-advancing roles in the field will also be able to
advance their careers in any combination of the following emerging 4IR-compliant
specialist job roles in the field:
1. Data Governance Specialist:
Description: Data Governance Specialists develop and implement policies and
procedures to ensure effective management, quality, security, and privacy of
data within public administration organizations.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of data governance frameworks and best practices
o Proficiency in data management and data quality assurance
o Understanding of data security and privacy regulations
o Ability to develop and implement data governance strategies
o Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
2. Digital Transformation Manager:
Description: Digital Transformation Managers lead the strategic planning and
implementation of digital technologies and processes to modernize and
streamline public administration operations and services.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of digital transformation strategies and technologies
o Proficiency in project management and change management
o Understanding of public administration processes and regulations
o Ability to develop and implement digital transformation roadmaps
o Strong leadership and communication skills
3. Cybersecurity Analyst:
Description: Cybersecurity Analysts protect public administration systems and
data from cyber threats, conducting risk assessments, implementing security
measures, and responding to security incidents.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of cybersecurity principles and best practices
o Proficiency in vulnerability assessment and risk management
o Understanding of security frameworks and compliance standards
o Ability to implement and monitor cybersecurity controls
o Strong problem-solving and incident response skills
4. Policy Analyst:
Description: Policy Analysts conduct research, analyze data, and provide
recommendations on public policy issues, supporting evidence-based decision-
making within public administration organizations.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of policy analysis methodologies and frameworks
o Proficiency in research and data analysis
o Understanding of public administration processes and governance
structures
o Ability to develop policy recommendations and reports
o Strong critical thinking and communication skills
5. Open Data Manager:
Description: Open Data Managers oversee the release and management of
open data initiatives, promoting transparency, accountability, and public
access to government data.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of open data principles and policies
o Proficiency in data management and data publishing platforms
o Understanding of data standards and metadata frameworks
o Ability to develop and implement open data strategies
o Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
6. Civic Engagement Specialist:
Description: Civic Engagement Specialists facilitate public participation and
collaboration in decision-making processes, fostering citizen involvement and
strengthening democracy.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of civic engagement theories and practices
o Proficiency in participatory methods and tools
o Understanding of public administration and governance structures
o Ability to design and implement civic engagement initiatives
o Strong facilitation and communication skills
7. Performance Management Analyst:
Description: Performance Management Analysts design and implement
performance measurement frameworks and systems to assess and improve the
efficiency and effectiveness of public administration organizations.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of performance management principles and methodologies
o Proficiency in performance measurement and data analysis
o Understanding of organizational management and process
improvement
o Ability to develop performance indicators and metrics
o Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
8. Digital Services Coordinator:
Description: Digital Services Coordinators oversee the development and
delivery of digital services to citizens, ensuring user-centric design,
accessibility, and usability of online platforms and applications.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of digital service design principles and methodologies
o Proficiency in user experience (UX) design and usability testing
o Understanding of digital accessibility standards and regulations
o Ability to coordinate and manage digital service projects
o Strong project management and communication skills
9. Ethics and Compliance Officer:
Description: Ethics and Compliance Officers promote ethical behavior and
ensure compliance with laws, regulations, and ethical standards within public
administration organizations.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of ethics and compliance frameworks and regulations
o Proficiency in risk assessment and auditing processes
o Understanding of legal and regulatory requirements
o Ability to develop and implement ethics and compliance programs
o Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
10. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance Officer:
Description: AI Governance Officers develop policies and guidelines to
govern the ethical use of AI technologies within public administration,
ensuring transparency, fairness, and accountability.
Skills Requirements:
Knowledge of AI ethics and governance frameworks
Proficiency in AI technologies and their implications
Understanding of legal and regulatory aspects of AI
Ability to develop AI governance policies and guidelines
Strong critical thinking and policy development skills
11. Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Manager:
Description: PPP Managers facilitate collaborations between public and
private sectors to deliver public services and infrastructure projects, leveraging
resources and expertise from both sectors.
Skills Requirements:
Knowledge of public-private partnership models and frameworks
Proficiency in project management and partnership development
Understanding of public administration processes and regulations
Ability to negotiate and manage complex partnerships
Strong collaboration and negotiation skills
o Knowledge of financial and legal aspects of PPPs
12. Sustainability and Climate Change Specialist:
Description: Sustainability and Climate Change Specialists develop and
implement strategies and initiatives to address environmental sustainability
and mitigate the impacts of climate change within public administration
organizations.
Skills Requirements:
Knowledge of sustainability principles and climate change mitigation
strategies
Proficiency in environmental impact assessment and sustainability reporting
Understanding of climate change policies and regulations
Ability to develop and implement sustainability initiatives
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
13. Stakeholder Engagement Manager:
Description: Stakeholder Engagement Managers develop and implement
strategies to engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including
citizens, community groups, and external organizations, to inform decision-
making and improve public administration outcomes.
Skills Requirements:
Knowledge of stakeholder engagement principles and methodologies
Proficiency in stakeholder analysis and mapping
Understanding of public administration processes and governance structures
Ability to develop and implement stakeholder engagement plans
Strong communication and relationship-building skills
14. Grant and Funding Manager:
Description: Grant and Funding Managers identify and secure external
funding opportunities, such as grants and partnerships, to support public
administration initiatives and projects.
Skills Requirements:
Knowledge of grant and funding sources and processes
Proficiency in grant writing and proposal development
Understanding of project management and budgeting
Ability to identify funding opportunities and manage grant applications
Strong analytical and communication skills
15. Digital Equity Manager:
Description: Digital Equity Managers work to bridge the digital divide and
ensure equitable access to digital technologies and services, particularly for
underserved populations, within public administration organizations.
Skills Requirements:
Knowledge of digital equity principles and strategies
Proficiency in assessing and addressing digital accessibility barriers
Understanding of community engagement and inclusion practices
Ability to develop and implement digital equity initiatives
Strong advocacy and communication skills
As an Entrepreneurial University, all GOU programs also emphasize developing and
acquiring entrepreneurial skills and expertise. Like all GOU graduates, the graduates
of this program, in addition to acquiring requisite knowledge and competency in the
core subject areas of their field and discipline, also gain entrepreneurial skills,
expertise, and experience to enable them (if they choose) to set up their 4 th Industrial
Revolution (4IR) compliant business enterprises and corporations as social-business
entrepreneurs.
Social-business entrepreneurs establish businesses with the primary goal of
addressing social or environmental issues while generating sustainable financial
returns. They leverage entrepreneurial principles to create innovative business models
that tackle pressing societal challenges. These entrepreneurs prioritize social impact,
aiming to provide products, services, or employment opportunities that benefit
marginalized communities or contribute to a more sustainable and equitable society.
They often adopt hybrid business structures and collaborate with stakeholders to
create scalable and lasting solutions. Social-business entrepreneurs combine
entrepreneurship with a deep commitment to social and environmental causes,
striving to create positive change while building economically viable enterprises. To
succeed in social-business entrepreneurship in the 4IR, graduates in this program are
trained to possess a combination of entrepreneurial mindset qualities and core social-
business discipline entrepreneurial subject area skills and expertise.
Entrepreneurial Mindset Qualities: Graduates on completion of this program are
equipped with the following entrepreneurial mindset qualities: visionary thinking to
anticipate future trends and disrupt industries, risk appetite to embrace uncertainty and
take calculated risks, resilience to bounce back from failures and persevere in the face
of social-business challenges, passion and drive to fuel their pursuit of making a
positive impact in their social-business ventures, resourcefulness to find creative
solutions using available resources, adaptability to navigate the rapidly changing
landscape of the 4IR economy, and a customer-centric approach to understand and
address customer needs in their social-business. These entrepreneurial mindset
qualities enable our graduates seeking to embark on an entrepreneurial career in their
field to have the ability to thrive as social-business entrepreneurs, driving innovation
and success in the ever-evolving industry.
Core Social-Business Discipline Entrepreneurial Subject Area Skills and
Expertise: In addition to acquiring the requisite entrepreneurial mindset qualities, the
program also meets the following specific social-business discipline core subject areas
skills and expertise requirements for success in social-business entrepreneurship in the
4IR. Graduates, upon completion of this program, are equipped with skills, expertise,
and know-how in the following:
1. Business Knowledge: A solid understanding of business and management
concepts, principles, practices, and technologies. Knowledge of business
operations, services delivery, marketing operations, human resource
management, accounting, and financial systems and operations.
2. Business Acumen: A strong foundation in business fundamentals, skills in
strategic planning, market analysis, financial management, and marketing,
identifying market opportunities, creating competitive strategies, and
developing value propositions for business products or services.
3. Market Opportunity Identification: Developing skills for identifying market
opportunities by identifying gaps in the market, understanding the specific
needs and pain points of businesses, and the ability to envision innovative
solutions and services that address these needs.
4. Innovation and Problem-Solving: Ability to think innovatively and find
creative solutions to challenges in business entrepreneurship. Skills to identify
inefficiencies in the agricultural sector and develop innovative approaches to
improve productivity, sustainability, and profitability.
5. Business Strategy and Planning: Expertise in developing comprehensive
business strategies and plans, defining value propositions, setting strategic
objectives, conducting market research, analyzing competition, and creating
actionable plans to achieve business goals.
6. Financial Management and Analysis: Skills in financial management and
analysis. Expertise in understanding financial statements, budgeting, cash flow
management, and forecasting to make informed financial decisions, secure
funding, and ensure the financial sustainability of social business ventures.
7. Marketing and Branding: Skills in marketing and branding strategies,
identifying target markets, developing effective marketing campaigns,
building strong brand identities, and understanding concepts in market
research, customer segmentation, advertising, and digital marketing to
promote social-business products and services successfully.
8. Sales and Business Development: Proficiency in sales and business
development; ability to identify potential customers, build relationships, and
close deals; understanding the intricacies of the sales process, negotiation
techniques, and customer relationship management to drive revenue growth.
9. Technological Integration: Expertise in how to integrate technology into
social-business ventures. Knowledge of emerging technologies and their
applications to enhance products, services, and operations. Understanding how
to leverage technology as a competitive advantage in social business.
10. Leadership and Team Building: Developing leadership skills and building and
managing teams effectively. Learning to inspire and motivate team members,
foster a collaborative culture, align efforts toward a common vision, acquire
delegation skills, leverage team members' strengths, and manage human
resources.
11. Networking and Relationship Building: Understanding the importance of
networking and relationship building, establishing connections with industry
professionals, potential partners, mentors, and investors. Skills in developing
strong networks that provide access to resources, collaboration opportunities,
and valuable support and advice.
12. Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Acquire problem-solving and
decision-making skills. Learn to analyze complex situations, identify
solutions, and make informed decisions under uncertainty. Gain expertise to
develop structured approaches to problem-solving and the ability to evaluate
risks and opportunities.
13. Continuous Learning and Adaptation: Embrace a continuous learning and
adaptation mindset. Understand the need to stay updated with industry trends,
emerging technologies, and best social-business practices. Actively seek
professional development opportunities, attend industry conferences, and
engage in self-directed learning to stay ahead in the dynamic social business
landscape.
By acquiring these skills and expertise and being equipped with the requisite
entrepreneurial mindset qualities, GOU graduates in this field are well-prepared to
succeed as social-business entrepreneurs, leveraging their diverse capabilities. They
acquire skills in identifying market opportunities, integrating technology into social-
business operations, using data analytics to enhance business presence online,
utilizing advanced tools and strategies to optimize operations, analyzing market
trends, and reaching a wider customer base. GOU graduates also possess expertise in
financial management, strategic planning, marketing, risk assessment, and innovation.
These skills enable them to develop robust business models, make informed
decisions, create effective marketing campaigns, mitigate risks, and foster innovation
within their ventures.
Additionally, GOU graduates are adept at networking and collaboration, building
valuable connections with industry professionals and stakeholders. With their
comprehensive skill set and entrepreneurial mindset, GOU graduates in this field are
well-prepared to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and make a significant
impact in the social business world. Overall, these graduates possess the necessary
skills and mindset to thrive as social-business entrepreneurs and significantly impact
the social-business landscape in the 4IR economy.
Pursuing a BSc in Public Administration at GOU offers a valuable educational
experience for individuals passionate about public service and governance. The
program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and ethical foundations necessary
for a successful career in public administration. By choosing this program, you
embark on a path to positively impact society, address complex challenges, and
contribute to the betterment of communities. Remember, in addition to formal
education, gaining practical experience through internships, volunteering, or
participating in extracurricular activities related to public administration will further
enhance your skills and employability. Stay connected with industry professionals,
alumni networks, and professional associations to expand your knowledge and build
valuable connections.
Enroll Now at GOU to Build a Strong Foundation and Potential for a
Secure and Promising Career in Public Administration.
Associate Degree & Bachelor’s Degree fee is $550/Module
GOU has in place a competitive Scholarship and Financial Aid scheme for qualified and needy students seeking admission to any program of study. Prospective students should contact the Student Admissions Office (admissions@gou.university) for eligibility details and on the application process.