Minor in Public Administration Online
The online Public Administration Minor at SDSU Global Campus is designed for students who want to make a meaningful impact in their communities through leadership, service and public policy. This 21-unit program provides a strong foundation in public administration and is ideal for students pursuing careers in government, nonprofit organizations and other public sector roles.
All upper-division courses in the minor are available fully online, making it a flexible option for students in any SDSU Global Campus degree-completion program.
About the Program
This minor is structured to give students a comprehensive understanding of how public organizations operate and how public policies are developed and implemented. It includes core courses in government, personnel management, budgeting and urban administration, along with electives that allow students to explore specialized topics such as nonprofit management and public policy development.
Who is This Program for?
The SDSU Global Campus Public Administration Minor program includes 21 units of study and is open to students in the following programs who meet eligibility criteria:
- Economics
- Criminal Justice
- Business Administration
- Public Health
- Child Development
Note: Earning a minor requires additional coursework outside of the requirements for completion of the major coursework. Please consult your success advisor for more information.
What Can I Learn?
Public Administration is the study of how government and nonprofit organizations are managed and how public policies are created and implemented. Through this minor, students will gain a foundational understanding of public sector operations, along with insight into the challenges and opportunities that arise in public service. The curriculum also helps students develop practical skills in budgeting, personnel management and urban governance—key competencies for anyone interested in working in or with public institutions.
Studying Public Administration Can Help You:
Pursuing a minor in Public Administration can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities in local, state or federal government. It equips students with leadership and administrative skills that are highly relevant to public service roles. Additionally, the program fosters a deeper understanding of how public policy shapes communities, making it an excellent stepping stone for graduate studies in public administration, law or public policy.
Why Should You Choose a Public Administration Minor?
This minor complements a wide range of majors and enhances your resume with practical, career-ready skills. Whether you’re interested in working in city government, nonprofit leadership or public policy, the Public Administration Minor equips you with the tools to lead and serve effectively.
Planned Course Schedule
The minor consists of seven courses (21 units):
Required Courses (15 units):
- POLS 102 – Introduction to American and California Government and Politics
- P A 301 – Concepts and Issues in Public Administration
- P A 310 – Management of Urban Governments
- P A 330 – Public Personnel Administration
- P A 450 – Fiscal and Budgetary Policy
Elective Courses (6 units – choose two):
- P A 340 – Administrative Behavior
- P A 350 – Contemporary Urban Issues
- P A 460 – Administration and Public Policy Development
- P A 501 – Nonprofit Organizations and Government
All upper-division courses are offered fully online and are available to students in any SDSU Global Campus degree-completion program.
Process to Declare
In order to declare a minor in public administration, please contact your Student Success Advisor by emailing successadvising.global@sdsu.edu to determine your eligibility.