Academics
Advance your career in public service with the Department of Public Administration at Northern Illinois University. Our top-ranked programs combine academic excellence, practical application and flexible learning options to help you strengthen your leadership, management and policymaking skills. Guided by a commitment to ethical and effective public service, our programs prepare you to create meaningful change in local communities and organizations across the public and nonprofit sectors.
Bachelor’s in Public Service Leadership (online)
Designed for working public sector professionals, our fully online Bachelor's in Public Service Leadership helps you build the leadership, communication and management skills needed to advance your career. Flexible coursework fits your schedule while preparing you to lead teams, manage operations and serve your community effectively. Whether you work in public safety, public works or another service-oriented field, this degree can help you take the next step professionally.
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Advance your leadership potential with NIU's nationally ranked Master of Public Administration program. Available in flexible online and hybrid formats, the M.P.A. prepares both early-career and experienced professionals to address complex public challenges, manage organizations and make a meaningful impact through public service. Learn from expert faculty while building the skills needed to lead in government and nonprofit organizations.
Certificate Programs
Enhance your professional expertise with graduate certificate programs in public management or public budgeting and financial management. Certificate coursework helps current and aspiring managers strengthen their leadership, organizational and decision-making skills. Credits may also be applied toward the M.P.A. degree, providing a flexible pathway for continued professional growth.
Doctoral Studies Options in Public Administration
Students interested in advanced research, teaching or executive leadership can pursue doctoral study opportunities related to public administration in the political science Ph.D. program. Doctoral-level study provides the opportunity to explore complex policy and management issues while developing expertise in research, analysis and organizational leadership. These pathways prepare graduates to contribute to the future of public service through scholarship and professional practice.
Contact Us
Department of Public AdministrationWilliam R. Monat Building (2nd Floor)
815-753-0183
publicadm@niu.edu
Office Hours
Monday-Friday
8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Lunch break: noon-1 p.m.