Many of today’s best affordable Bachelor’s in Public Administration degree options are available online to prepare ethical, effective bureaucrats for meeting community needs. Online colleges increasingly offer public administration majors for working professionals to advance their leadership skills anytime 24/7. Public administration students learn the fundamentals of business, economics, and politics online for in-demand, well-paid government careers. Graduates of low-cost public administration degree programs find success in the upper executive branches of local, state, regional, and federal agencies. In May 2018, the Bureau of Labor Statistics counted 21.73 million total government employees nationwide. Nearly 1.1 million of these public sector workers have upper-level management positions. The Pew Research Center found that two-thirds of U.S. adults have little or no confidence in government leaders. More than 85 percent of Americans believe the can government improve. Earning a cheap public administration degree online could help you enact real societal changes that voters demand.
Our Methodology
Thus, Affordable Schools decided to highlight the best-value public administration degree programs online for patriotic citizens committed to empowering our democracy. We started by visiting the U.S. Education Department’s NCES College Navigator database. We conducted an advanced search to find four-year distance education offerings in public administration. We organized an initial pool of 40 online public administration bachelor’s. Our team narrowed the list to the 30 most affordable based on 2018-19 cost of attendance totals. We recorded the in-state undergraduate price of tuition and fees for full-time students. Out-of-state charges were included solely for readers’ reference. We gave each public administration school one to five points to reward the cheapest in-state tuition.
Points:
Under $7,500: 5 Points
$7,500 to $15,000: 3 Points
$15,001 and Up: 1 Point
Then, the AS Staff utilized the National Center for Education Statistics tool to pinpoint each program’s average student-faculty ratio. We prioritized affordable colleges for public administration degree programs with student-faculty ratios of 10:1 and less. This figure divides the university’s total enrollment by the number of teachers. Lower proportions signify more personalization and civic engagement. Small public administration classes make sure everyone’s voice is heard during discussions and political debates. Institutions with low student-faculty ratios typically also provide better mentorship, internship, foreign service, and research opportunities. Our staff awarded another one to three points based on interaction levels in economical public administration degree options.
Points:
10:1 or Less: 3 Points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 Points
Greater Than 15:1: 1 Point
Finally, Affordable Schools recorded the average graduation rate for the 2018-19 academic year from the College Navigator database. Graduation rates show the percentage of students who culminate their studies within the normal range of four to six years. Schools with low graduation rates have a large student population transfer or drop out completely. Conversely, universities with bigger numbers over 50 percent are good at retaining a satisfied student body. Picking best-value public administration degree programs with good graduation rates improves the likelihood of high-quality education and successful completion. We presented the last one to three points for graduation rate and added up the sums to order our affordable colleges for public administration degree programs online below.
Points:
More than 50 Percent: 3 Points
Between 30 and 50 Percent: 2 Points
Less than 30 Percent: 1 Point
Ranking the 30 Most Affordable Online Public Administration Bachelor’s Degrees
30. Columbia College
Columbia, MO
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Home to a Pi Sigma Alpha Chapter, Columbia College is a nonprofit, four-year liberal arts institution founded in 1851 that’s endowed for $175 million to educate 4,743 online and 11,632 on-campus Cougars across 14 states with 30 percent graduation. Columbia College is our list’s 30th best online accredited college for public administration degree programs with a $22,704 yearly cost. On Canvas, the History, Philosophy & Political Science Department grants an inexpensive accelerated online B.A./B.S. in Public Administration that takes only 3.5 years. Chaired by Dr. David Karr, the 120-credit, HLC-accredited path has six annual sessions for eight-week online courses like Organizational Behavior and Public Financial Resources Management. Students could also select the Pre-Law Track or Leadership Studies Minor. Graduates of this top-value bachelors program may go onto such careers as urban planning, city management, hospital and clinic administration or fundraising.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration
Bachelor of Science in Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $22,704
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,704
Student-Faculty Ratio: 25:1
Graduation Rate: 30 percent
29. Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Given the 2010 AIPAC Activist of the Year Award, Liberty University is a nonprofit, coed conservative institution established by Jerry Falwell Sr. that’s endowed for $1.43 billion to train 100,000 Champions of Christ across 17 colleges with an 18:1 student-faculty ratio. Liberty University has Affordable Schools’ 29th best high-value public administration degree online for annual tuition of $22,584. On Blackboard, the Helms School of Government confers a top-value online Public Administration B.S. in 3.5 years with a money-saving First Responder Discount available. Overseen by Dr. Mary Prentice, the 120-credit, SACS-accredited curriculum delivers eight-week asynchronous classes like American Government and Human Resources. Liberty Flames with GPAs above 3.2 also qualify for The Washington Fellowship. This inexpensive online bachelor’s in public administration combines the biblical principles of civic government and professional and practical skills needed to ensure a program of excellence.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $22,584
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,584
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 50 percent
28. Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Chosen for a 2017 USDLA 21st Century Distance Learning Award, Southern New Hampshire University is a fast-growing private, nonprofit New England institution that’s endowed for $16.7 million to openly enroll 90,955 Penmen in more than 200 programs with 54 percent completion. Southern New Hampshire University provides the 28th best affordable distance education public administration degree for $31,136 each year. On D2L Brightspace, the high-value B.S. in Business Administration has a Public Administration Concentration for online students who can transfer up to 90 credits. Managed by Dr. Bill Lightfoot, the 120-credit, ACBSP-accredited plan starts eight-week courses like Macroeconomics and Program Accountability six times per year. There’s also a 12-credit Public Administration Certificate online.
Degree Options:
B.S. in Business Administration – Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $31,136
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,136
Student-Faculty Ratio: 24:1
Graduation Rate: 54 percent
27. Upper Iowa University
Fayette, IA
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Named a 2019 “Best for Vets” school by Military Times, Upper Iowa University is a private, nonprofit CIC member endowed for $18.4 million that’s teaching 4,008 undergrad and 651 post-grad Peacocks at 24 centers from Fayette to Hong Kong with a 13:1 student-faculty ratio. Upper Iowa University is our website’s 27th most affordable college for public administration degree online studies with a $30,450 price. On Desire2Learn, the School of Arts & Sciences awards a high-value online B.S. in Public Administration for five emphases: General, Fire Science, Policy/Politics, Emergency Management, or Law Enforcement. Led by Dr. Edward Huffstetler, the 120-credit, HLC-accredited online sequence ends the required 300-level major courses like Social Welfare and Public Budgeting with a case study capstone. Graduates of this top-value bachelor’s in public administration develop the skills necessary to thrive in public policy.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $30,450
Out-of-State Tuition: $30,450
Student-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 43 percent
26. Barry University
Miami Shores, FL
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Selected for Carnegie’s “Community Engagement” classification in 2015, Barry University is a private, Catholic ICUF member endowed for $43.9 million that serves 5,126 full-time and 2,060 part-time Buccaneers at a 12:1 student-faculty ratio. Barry University scored the 26th spot among affordable colleges for public administration degree choices with $30,014 tuition. On Canvas, the School of Professional & Career Education accepts $30 applications for the economical online Bachelor of Public Administration year-round. Directed by Dr. Christopher Starratt, the 120-credit, SACS-accredited program builds an Experiential Learning Portfolio during seven-week online courses like Productivity Improvement. Majors with minimum 3.0 GPAs could receive the $1,065 Ambassador Wilkowski Scholarship. This accelerated bachelor’s program will provide graduates with many career opportunities in public or non-profit organizations.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $30,014
Out-of-State Tuition: $30,014
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 36 percent
25. Hawaii Pacific University
Honolulu, HI
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Hosting the 2019 World War I Centennial Conference at Aloha Tower, Hawaii Pacific University is a private, nonprofit NAICU member of the PacWest that’s endowed for $44.6 million to push 4,260 undergrad Sharks “Forward With Truth” for 47 percent six-year graduation success. Hawaii Pacific University made our top 25 affordable colleges for public administration degree programs online with a $25,980 yearly rate. On Blackboard, the College of Professional Studies confers a low-cost online Bachelor in Public Administration (BPA) for transfers with two years of lower-division credits. Organized by Dr. Mani Sehgal, the 60-credit, WASC-accredited completion track has eight-week online courses like Urban Government and Administrative Law. Learners can earn the Dual BA in Human Resource Development too. This cheap, flexible undergraduate program in public administration will open the door to many career options.
Degree Options:
Bachelor in Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $25,980
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,980
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 47 percent
24. University of Maine at Augusta
Augusta, ME
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Gifting the full-tuition George J. Mitchell Peace Scholarship each March, the University of Maine at Augusta is a public, coed UMS branch founded in 1965 that’s endowed for $220.7 million to support 5,500 Moose from 19 countries at a 16:1 student-faculty ratio. The University of Maine at Augusta won 24th place among affordable colleges for public administration degree options online with a $7,988 in-state value. The College of Professional Studies delivers a cheap B.S. in Public Administration online on Blackboard or via interactive TV sessions. Coordinated by Dr. Daylin Butler, the 121-credit, NEASC-accredited program entails courses like Labor-Management Relations and Grant Writing plus a capstone field project. Juniors can also transfer from the 60-credit A.S. in Public Administration. This cheapest public administration degree from UMA has paved the way for such positions as Commissioner, Chief Deputy Secretary of State, sheriff or police chief.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $7,988
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,918
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 18 percent
23. University of La Verne
La Verne, CA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Sponsoring the Terrence E. Deal Leadership Institute, the University of La Verne is a private, Hispanic-serving Christian school formed in 1891 that’s endowed for $68.8 million to train 8,064 Leopards from 30 countries at a 14:1 student-faculty ratio. The University of La Verne is our list’s 23rd most affordable university for public administration degree programs online despite a $43,050 annual cost. The College of Business & Public Management offers its high-value B.S. in Public Administration online on Blackboard or at six California locations. Outlined by Dr. Thomas Cobbs, the 122-credit, WASC-accredited plan accepts up to 88 transfer credits to accelerate courses like Oral Communication and Labor Negotiation. Students could also compete with Model UN at the West Coast Arab League Summit. Graduates of this low-cost and flexible degree program gain the skills they need through practical experience.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $43,050
Out-of-State Tuition: $43,050
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 69 percent
22. Roger Williams University
Bristol, RI
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Registering the Epsilon Mu Chapter for Sigma Iota Rho since 2008, Roger Williams University is a prestigious, private liberal arts school endowed for $79.2 million that employs 489 faculty teaching 4,416 undergrad Hawks in Rhode Island or online. Roger Williams University landed 22nd among the best affordable online public administration degree bachelor’s with universal $34,522 tuition. Each 10-week term, the University College admits low-cost online B.S. in Public Administration cohorts with an average 3.25 GPA on Sakai. Run by Ms. Jamie Scurry, the 2018 Success Value Award recipient, this 120-credit, NEASC-accredited program meets NASPAA standards for topics like Personnel Administration and Policy Processes. Other majors may add the six-course Municipal Management Certificate. This top-value bachelors in public administration will get graduates ready to work in the public sector through their quality education.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $34,522
Out-of-State Tuition: $34,522
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 70 percent
21. California Baptist University
Riverside, CA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Partnered with Brazil’s Colegio Batista Mineiro for the Visiting Scholar Program, California Baptist University is a flexible, faith-informed private school opened in 1950 that’s endowed for $54 million to empower 10,486 Lancers in 76 majors with 55 percent completion. California Baptist University claimed the 21st spot among affordable colleges for public administration degree programs that charge $33,478 annually. On Blackboard, the Division of Online & Professional Studies gives 24/7 access to the cost-effective online B.A. in Public Administration. Advised by Dr. Elaine Ahumada, the 48-unit, WASC-accredited major typically takes transfers 16 months to complete eight-week courses like Constitutional Law and Political Economy from a Christian perspective. Some continue into the 4+1 Master of Public Administration. Graduates of the cheap undergraduate degree in public administration will learn the creative thinking and problem-solving skills needed to thrive in their future career.
Degree Options:
B.A. in Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $33,478
Out-of-State Tuition: $33,478
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 55 percent
20. Point Park University
Pittsburgh, PA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Funding the 20 percent Allegheny County Employee Discount, Point Park University is a private, civic-engaged liberal arts institution established in 1960 that’s endowed for $34.2 million to instruct 3,276 undergrad Pioneers across 77 majors at a 12:1 student-faculty ratio. Point Park University broke the top 20 with an affordable degree in public administration online that bills everyone $31,450 each year. On Schoology since Fall 2018, the School of Arts & Sciences has granted a top-value online B.S. in Public Administration for full-time civil servants to easily access eight-week courses. Directed by Dr. Robert Skertich, the 120-credit, MSCHE-accredited path offers two concentrations: Fire Service and EMS Administration. Internships, such as the Pittsburgh Department of City Planning or FEMA, can be arranged. This fully online bachelor’s in public administration allows students the flexibility needed to complete their degree.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $31,450
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,450
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 60 percent
19. Park University
Parkville, MO
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Highly regarded for its Alford-Axelson Center of Nonprofit Management BootCamp, Park University is a private, coed NAICU member that’s endowed for $53 million to employ 1,500 faculty inspiring 16,290 Pirates from 89 countries at 41 campus centers and online. Park University finished 19th for an affordable distance education public administration degree that costs $11,572. The College of Management logs into Canvas to deliver five low-cost. online Bachelor of Public Administration specializations: Business Relations, Criminal Justice, Fire Service, Homeland Security, and Public Management. Taught by Dr. James Vanderleeuw, the 45-credit, HLC-accredited major requires a senior project after Web-based courses like Capitalism. Also, check out the 12-credit Certificate in Global Governance online. Graduates of this cheap online bachelor’s degree in public administration will have a solid foundation to enter the workforce or can go on to a graduate degree.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $11,572
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,572
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 33 percent
18. Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Bestowed a 2016 Online Learning Consortium Innovation Award, Northern Arizona University is a public, research-based WUE participant that’s endowed for $186.2 million to teach 25,433 campus and 5,640 online Lumberjacks with more than 400 clubs like Alpha Kappa Psi. Northern Arizona University is positioned 18th among affordable colleges for public administration degree programs online with an $11,564 in-state rate. The Politics & International Affairs Department has August 15th, October 15th, and January 15th deadlines for $25 applications to this top-value online B.A.S. in Public Administration. Headed by Dr. Eric Otenyo, the 120-unit, HLC-accredited option splits into three emphases: Justice Studies, Emergency Management, or Intelligence Studies. Students can semester in China via the AIEI Partnership.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Applied Science in Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $11,564
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,828
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
17. Troy University
Troy, AL
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Designated a 2019 Alabama Green Ribbon School, Troy University is a flagship public, four-year ACHE member of the Sun Belt Conference that’s endowed for $104.4 million to instruct 17,521 Trojans from 70 countries with a 43 percent graduation rate. Troy University is the AS Staff’s 17th best online accredited university for public administration degree courses with an average in-state price of $8,908. Fully on Canvas, the School of Arts & Sciences provides a low-cost onlineB.A. in Political Science for two specializations: American Politics and Public Administration or International Politics. Led by Dr. Michael Slobodchikoff, the 120-credit, SACS-approved sequence mixes topics like Cultural Awareness and National Government. Majors are also mentored by the Past Ambassador-in-Residence. This cheap bachelors in political science will prepare graduates to work in positions in journalism, public policy or government.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science – American Politics and Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $8,908
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,708
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 43 percent
16. Eastern Oregon University
La Grande, OR
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Affiliated with the 2011 Benjamin Franklin Award for Public Service recipient, Eastern Oregon University is a public, state-funded OUS member east of Portland that budgets $44 million to employ 103 faculty training 3,016 Mountaineers with more than 50 clubs like Latino Impact. Eastern Oregon University snagged the 16th space for a low-cost public administration degree online with an $8,679 in-state price tag. Redesigned for Fall 2019, this top online Bachelor of Public Administration boasts a 91 percent job placement rate at the Oregon State Senate, Regional Solution Center, Union County Clerk’s Office, and more. Chaired by Dr. Jeff Dense, the 120-credit, NWCCU-accredited program utilizes Canvas for online courses from Economic Development to Budgetary Politics with 100 internship hours.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $8,679
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,739
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 33 percent
15. Austin Peay State University
Clarksville, TN
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Presented a 2018 CASE District III Circle of Excellence Award, Austin Peay State University is a fast-growing public, coed Clarksville campus founded 90 years ago that’s endowed for $26.5 million to enroll 9,835 undergrad Governors at an 18:1 student-faculty ratio. Austin Peay State University ended up 15th among affordable colleges for public administration degree programs online with in-state tuition of $8,159. The College of Behavioral & Health Sciences provides a cheap Public Management B.S. in Clarksville, at Fort Campbell, or 100 percent online on Canvas. Run by Dr. Matthew Kenney, the 120-credit, SACS-accredited curriculum integrates High Impact Practices (HIP) into 3000-level courses like Policy Analysis. In 2019, APSU sent a record-high nine majors to the Tennessee General Assembly. This low-cost bachelor’s degree program is committed to preparing students with the leadership skills that graduates need to thrive in public management positions.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Public Management
In-State Tuition: $8,159
Out-of-State Tuition: $23,399
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 41 percent
14. University of Hawaii-West Oahu
Kapolei, HI
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Offering the $3,000 Dr. Gary Helfand Public Administration Scholarship, the University of Hawaii-West Oahu is a fast-growing public, baccalaureate UH member formed in 1976 that’s educating 3,128 students at an average age of 26. The University of Hawaii-West Oahu is Affordable Schools’ 14th pick among top-value public administration degree programs online with a $7,512 in-state cost. On Blackboard, the cheap B.A. in Public Administration tailors six online concentrations: Community Health, Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Management, Health Care Administration, General Public Management, Criminal Justice, or Long-Term Care. Instructed by Dr. Susan Young, the 120-credit, WASC-accredited program requires one senior practicum placement, such as Honolulu City Council or DHS.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $7,512
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,472
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 32 percent
13. Peru State College
Peru, NE
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Victorious at the 2017 Phi Beta Lambda State Leadership Conference with 96 awards, Peru State College is Nebraska’s oldest public, coed HAAC member that’s endowed for $10.5 million to educate 2,422 Bobcats online or on the 104-acre “Thousand Oaks” campus. Peru State College was chosen as our website’s 13th most affordable college for public administration degree attendance online with flat-rate $7,512 tuition. On Blackboard, the School of Professional Studies customizes a low-cost online Bachelor of Business Administration for six majors, including Public Administration. Chaired by Dr. Sara Crook, the 120-credit, HLC-accredited online degree requires minimum 2.0 GPAs throughout eight- or 16-week courses like Fiscal Management and World Politics. There’s also an inexpensive B.S. in Justice Administration online. This public administration bachelor’s degree trains graduates to work in various government roles.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Business Administration – Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $7,512
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,512
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 35 percent
12. Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Mount Vernon, OH
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Celebrated as a 2018-19 NAIA Five-Star Champion of Character Gold Institution, Mount Vernon Nazarene University is a private, coed Protestant school that’s endowed for $14.71 million to inspire 1,377 traditional and 845 non-traditional Cougars from 19 countries. Mount Vernon Nazarene University stands as our 12th best online affordable accredited college for public administration degree options worth $29,244 each year. On Moodle, the School of Graduate & Professional Studies welcomes B.A. in Public Administration majors with 56+ transfer credits and GPAs above 2.0. Managed by Dr. Yvonne Schultz, the 40-credit, HLC-accredited option takes only 21 months to culminate cohort-based courses like Accounting Fundamentals. Lower-division credits are available in MVNU’s Associate of Arts. This online public administration degree has a faculty committed to seeing its students succeed.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $29,244
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,244
Student-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent
11. Franklin University
Columbus, OH
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Declared the 2014 AECT Distance Learning Best Practice Award winner, Franklin University is a private, adult-oriented institution endowed for $60 million that supports 5,006 students and 45,000 alumni online or at 230 U.S. partner locations. Franklin University came in 11th among the best affordable colleges for public administration degree programs online with a $12,649 price and 12:1 student-faculty ratio. On Moodle, the College of Health & Public Administration starts a top-value online B.S. in Public Administration each trimester for undergrads with up to 94 transfer credits. Headed by Dr. Marv Briskey, the 120-credit, HLC-accredited online degree plan integrates real-life simulations into courses like Organizational Supervision and Criminology. Also, check out the 15-credit Sustainability Management Certificate. This bachelor’s degree in public service draws compassionate and dependable students who want to make a difference in the world.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $12,649
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,649
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 30 percent
10. Arizona State University
Phoenix, AZ
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Employing the 2014 APSA Herbert A. Simon Public Administration Book Award recipient, Arizona State University is a public, land-grant Pac-12 powerhouse that budgets $1.92 billion to serve 103,530 Sun Devils online and at five locations with 69 percent completion. Arizona State University reached our 10 best affordable public administration degree online options with a $10,822 in-state rate. On Canvas, the School of Public Affairs delivers a cheap B.S. in Public Service & Policy for 14 online emphases, such as Parks and Recreation Management or Social Services Delivery. Organized by Dr. Donald Siegel, the 40-course, NASPAA-aligned program has 7.5-week online sessions like Change Leadership and Empirical Political Inquiry. Seniors with cumulative GPAs over 3.4 can earn the Accelerated MPA.
Degree Options:
B.S. in Public Service and Policy
In-State Tuition: $10,822
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,336
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 69 percent
9. University of Maryland-University College
Largo, MD
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Chosen for the 2018 EC-Council Academia Circle of Excellence Award, the University of Maryland-University College is a public, state-funded global campus endowed for $17.2 million that’s seen enrollment jump 40 percent to 86,471 in more than 300 articulated programs. The University of Maryland-University College earned ninth place among online affordable colleges for public administration degree opportunities with $7,416 in-state tuition. On LEO, this cheap online B.S. in Public Safety Administration prepares high school or GED graduates for leading first responder organizations. Headed by Dr. Susan Blankenship, the 120-credit, MSCHE-accredited option accumulates eight-week courses like Safety Planning and Emergency Management. Majors might also join the virtual Public Safety Student Association.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Public Safety Administration
In-State Tuition: $7,416
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,336
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 15 percent
8. University of North Carolina-Pembroke
Pembroke, NC
Total Points: 8
Program Website
Bestowed the 2018 NACMA Best of Community Engagement & Public Relations Award, the University of North Carolina-Pembroke is a public, four-year UNC constituent that generates a $38 million impact while teaching 6,353 undergrad Hawks in 41 majors. The University of North Carolina-Pembroke is our ranking’s eighth most affordable college for public administration degree programs online with a cheap $3,418 in-state cost. On Canvas since Spring 2018, the low-cost Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (BIS) has presented seven online majors, including Public and Non-Profit Administration, at an 18:1 student-faculty ratio. Coordinated by Dr. Joy Fuqua, the 128-credit, SACS-accredited track requires transferring 45 credits or more before online courses like Strategic Planning and Conflict Resolution.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies in Public and Non-Profit Administration
In-State Tuition: $3,418
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,418
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 41 percent
7. Indian River State College
Fort Pierce, FL
Total Points: 8
Program Website
Crowned the 2019 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence winner, Indian River State College is a public, coed FCSAA member chartered by the Florida Legislature 60 years ago that’s endowed for $26.2 million to affordably educate nearly 30,000 Pioneers. Indian River State College is the AS Staff’s seventh choice for online cost-effective public administration degree options with a $2,764 in-state total. On Blackboard, the Vernon Smith Public Service Education Department grants a low-cost online Public Administration B.S. for two concentrations: Public Policy & Leadership or Emergency Planning & Management. Taught by Ms. Heather Adams, the 60-credit, SACS-accredited 2+2 transfer plan involves courses like State Government and Incident Command plus one internship, such as Pasco County. This best-value online bachelors will prepare graduates for such careers as fire/emergency medical services, emergency management, law enforcement and role in non-profit management.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $2,764
Out-of-State Tuition: $10,201
Student-Faculty Ratio: 26:1
Graduation Rate: 39 percent
6. St. Petersburg College
St. Petersburg, FL
Total Points: 8
Program Website
Granted the 2016 Governor’s Higher Education Leadership Award, St. Petersburg College is a high-tech public, state-funded commuter school and Multijurisdictional Counterdrug Task Force Training partner that’s endowed for $57.4 million to serve 49,006 Titans. St. Petersburg College is applauded for our sixth best-value public administration degree online with a $2,682 in-state average and 24:1 student-faculty ratio. On D2L Brightspace, the Legal Studies Division offers a cheap online B.S. in Public Policy and Administration or B.A.S. in Public Safety Administration. Overseen by Mr. Kenneth Afienko, the 120-credit, SACS-accredited online paths share eight-week courses like American Civil Life and Resource Development. Students can also benefit from Seminole’s Frank Edmunds Public Service Training program.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Public Policy and Administration
Bachelor of Applied Science in Public Safety Administration
In-State Tuition: $2,682
Out-of-State Tuition: $9,286
Student-Faculty Ratio: 24:1
Graduation Rate: 30 percent
5. University of Houston-Clear Lake
Houston, TX
Total Points: 9
Program Website
Declared the 2016 THECB Texas Higher Education Star Award recipient, the University of Houston-Clear Lake is a public, four-year UH branch that’s endowed for $29.7 million to instruct 6,445 undergrad Hawks in 46 bachelor’s majors with a cutting-edge Cyber Security Institute. The University of Houston-Clear Lake begins our ranking’s top five affordable colleges for public administration degree programs online with an in-state $7,002 expense. On Blackboard Learn 9.1, the College of Extended & Professional Education provides a two-year low-cost online Public Service Leadership B.S. for junior transfers with minimum 2.0 GPAs. Administered by Dr. Steven Berberich, the 60-credit, SACS-accredited curriculum fits 10 courses like Public Speaking and Representative Bureaucracy each year.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Public Service Leadership
In-State Tuition: $7,002
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,954
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 81 percent
4. California State University-Northridge
Northridge, CA
Total Points: 9
Program Website
Known for graduating the 25th district’s Democratic Rep. Katie Hill in 2014, California State University-Northridge is a public, four-year Big West member in Los Angeles that budgets $464.5 million to teach 34,900 undergrad Matadors across 134 majors. California State University-Northridge finished fourth among affordable colleges for public administration degree programs online with $6,893 in-state tuition. Featured in the Social Mobility Index’s top 20, the Tseng College utilizes Canvas to deliver a best-value online Public Sector Management B.A. for working adults with 60+ transfer credits. Chaired by Dr. Robert Kent, the 60-unit, WASC-accredited option immerses 2.5-year cohorts in courses like Population Dynamics and Sustainable Development. Forty students also qualify for the 15-credit DC Internship. This top-value online bachelors in administration trains graduates for a life in public service.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Public Sector Management
In-State Tuition: $6,893
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,773
Student-Faculty Ratio: 26:1
Graduation Rate: 54 percent
3. Florida International University
Miami, FL
Total Points: 9
Program Website
Operating the Jorge M. Perez Metropolitan Center since 1997, Florida International University is a public, forward-thinking ORAU member that’s endowed for $251.3 million to employ 2,338 faculty teaching 48,439 undergrad Panthers from 120 nations with 58 percent graduation. Florida International University took bronze for the third best affordable university for public administration degree programs with a $6,546 in-state cost. Given the 2018 Model UN Best Delegate Award, the Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs offers a cheap online Bachelor of Public Administration on Blackboard. Led by Dr. Howard Frank, the 120-credit, SACS-accredited plan starts Associate of Arts transfers in 3000-level courses like Global City Management. There’s also an 18-credit Public Finance Certificate.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $6,546
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,954
Student-Faculty Ratio: 26:1
Graduation Rate: 58 percent
2. Central Methodist University
Fayette, MO
Total Points: 9
Program Website
Running the Eagle Select Scholarship Virtual Essay Competition until November 1st, Central Methodist University is a private, nonprofit UMC member founded in 1854 by Nathan Scarritt that’s endowed for $31.4 million to attract 5,437 undergrads into more than 40 majors. Central Methodist University is the AS Staff’s second best online affordable accredited college for public administration degree studies with a $5,760 in-state price. The College of Graduate & Extended Studies utilizes state-of-the-art Jenzabar software to provide an economical online B.A./B.S. in Public Administration. Directed by Dr. Carolyn Burbee, the 120-credit, HLC-accredited sequence includes accelerated eight-week courses from Social Psychology to Constitutional Law. Eagles ranking in the top 35 percent are eligible for Pi Gamma Mu membership. This public administration online bachelor’s degree provides essential skills for someone who wants to work in the public sector.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration
Bachelor of Science in Public Administration
In-State Tuition: $5,760
Out-of-State Tuition: $5,760
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 51 percent
1. Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL
Total Points: 9
Program Website
Picked for the 2017 AURA Campus-Wide Undergraduate Research Award, Florida Atlantic University is an innovative public, coed SUSF member that generates a $6.3 million impact while enrolling 30,808 Owls in more than 170 majors and connecting 149,412 living alumni. Florida Atlantic University is Affordable Schools’ gold medalist with the number one most affordable online public administration degree offerings that only cost $4,831 in-state. On Canvas, the College for Design & Social Inquiry offers a cheap online Bachelor of Public Management or Bachelor of Public Safety Administration with 52 percent six-year graduation. Chaired by Dr. Naelys Luna, the latter 120-credit, SACS-accredited option splits into two concentrations: Disaster Management or Law Enforcement and Corrections. Both share upper-division courses like Public Personnel Administration and Social Vulnerability that end with a three-credit government internship.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Public Safety Administration
Bachelor of Public Management
In-State Tuition: $4,831
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,276
Student-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
Which Careers are Best After a Cost-Effective Public Administration Degree Program?
Attending an affordable accredited college for public administration degree studies online can begin a bright, rewarding future advocating for citizens’ needs in diverse jobs. For instance, public health directors protect community well-being by reducing illnesses and responding to epidemics. Police commissioners establish the policies and procedures that local law enforcement departments follow. Urban planners propose new development projects to maximize land use and keep downtown life vibrant. Parks and recreation directors budget taxpayer money to fund entertaining community programs that get residents involved. Public relations managers interact with the press and enhance positive media coverage of government agencies. State legislators are elected and set to the capital to enact constitutional new laws that improve society. Additional careers for affordable online public administration degree graduates include city manager, county executive, operations research manager, government consultant, comptroller, public housing director, veterans affairs administrator, cabinet secretary, and even president.
What is the Salary Potential With Affordable Public Administration Degree Majors?
Graduating from online affordable colleges for public administration degree programs will help you get ahead in high-paying government jobs without massive loan debt. Currently, the Bureau of Labor Statistics lists an annual mean wage of $58,360 for all government workers. Administrative positions provide average pay of $103,440. Chief executives reap a six-figure median salary of $136,050. Purchasing managers are compensated $116,450 on average. Human resources managers in the public sector make $109,210. Postmasters and mail superintendents have mean income of $77,060. Public relations and fundraising managers can expect average pay of $108,270. Judges and magistrates bring home a median salary of $121,130. Political scientists follow closely beyond with $119,130. Health services administrators report average earnings of $116,090. Public school administrators generate median income of $113,430. According to FederalPay, securities compliance examiners are the best paid with a $181,013 average. Patent administrators and finance managers earn up to $187,148 and $280,500 respectively.
How is the Hiring Demand for Top-Value Public Administration Degree Graduates?
Investing in affordable distance education public administration degree programs will improve your chance of succeeding at the local, state, and federal levels. In 2019, the Collegiate Employment Research Institute predicted that hiring of bachelor’s grads would jump 8 percent. Presently, the USAJobs database has more than 10,000 positions open to the public. The Labor Department expects employment in public management careers to grow 7 percent by 2028. Top executives will see a 6 percent increase for 150,600 new jobs nationwide. Need for social service managers will skyrocket for faster-than-average growth of 13 percent. The number of public relations managers will reach 87,600 for an 8 percent uptick. Health services administrators will benefit from 10-year growth of 18 percent. Employment of government finance directors will swell by 16 percent. Business Insider reported that New Mexico, Virginia, Alaska, Wyoming, and Hawaii have the highest percentage of government employees. Cheap public administration degree programs online give you the freedom to relocate and find impactful roles.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the 30 best affordable online bachelor’s in public administration degrees in 2020.
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