BSPA - Bachelor of Science with a Major in Public Administration

Public and nonprofit organizations face an environment of increasing complexity, rising expectations, and yet, unpredictable resources. The Bachelor of Science in Public Administration program at the College of Coastal Georgia will teach you the skills and knowledge necessary to become a leader in the field of public service. Rare for baccalaureate degrees and unique for the Southeast Georgia region, the BSPA provides students with key management competencies and decision-skills to support a wide range of organizations and complex policies.  Program graduates will help address the growing workforce need in these sectors for employees with strong management skills and a public service mindset. 

Students in our program are passionate about making a positive impact in their community. Our program will equip you with the tools to do just that, as you delve into the complex issues facing governments, non-profits, and other public organizations. You will study topics such as ethics, leadership, public finance, and human resources, all of which are essential for success in the public sector.

Our faculty consists of experienced professionals who have worked in a variety of public service positions, bringing real-world expertise to the classroom. They are dedicated to helping you develop the skills you need to make a meaningful impact in your community.

As a Public Administration student, you will have the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships, service projects, and research. Our program has partnerships with a variety of public organizations, providing you with numerous opportunities to gain hands-on experience in your field of interest.

Graduates of the BSPA pursue careers in public service, such as government and non-profit organizations, attend law school, or go on to enroll in MBA and Master of Public Administration programs.

The concentration in Cyber Defense provides a unique opportunity for students interested in public service and law to grow their knowledge, skills, and abilities in cyber defense. The Cyber Defense concentration provides students with real world problem-solving skills, working with current industry tools and technology, while enhancing a student's skills for public sector employment.

The Political Science concentration allows students to gain essential management skills and to explore the major aspects of public policy and law ranging from social policy and environmental policy to regulatory policy with additional courses that provide a background in Constitutional law and planning.

The concentration in Public Management focuses on leadership and management in public sector organizations. For Public Administration students, the goal of this concentration is to develop skills required by individuals who manage in state, local, or federal government organizations and those who develop and evaluate policies. The public management concentration provides marketable management and leadership competencies that can be directly applied in the workplace, while instilling essential values to ensure students thrive upon graduation in their careers as public servants.

In addition to the above, students must also complete all collegewide Graduation Requirements.