University of North Texas 
Shaping Leaders in Public Administration Since 1992
Where it Began
Established in 1992, the Department of Public Administration within the College of Health and Public Service has a rich history of academic evolution. The roots of the department trace back to 1961 with the inception of the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program in the Department of Political Science. The Ph.D. program emerged in the 1970s as a political science specialization before becoming a stand-alone degree under the Department of Public Administration in 2004, as approved by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. Expanding its academic offerings, the department introduced an undergraduate degree in Nonprofit Leadership Studies in 2017, followed by a degree in Urban Policy and Planning in 2018.
Current Students and Faculty
Currently, the department supports around 170 graduate students and is launching two new undergraduate majors. Our dedicated faculty provide a student-centered education, supporting each student's growth from their first day through to their professional careers. Our alumni are highly engaged and accomplished, making significant impacts both nationally and at UNT.
Student Engagement and Activities
Our students are also deeply involved on campus and in the professional world, participating in diverse programming and networking opportunities.
- The Nonprofit Student Association hosts monthly events and fundraising campaigns, and boasts one of the most active advisory boards on campus.
- The Public Administration Student Association (PASA) organizes social, networking, and professional development activities, and manages the student chapter of the International City/County Management Association, with members participating in state and national conferences.
- The PhD Student Association is active in scholarly conferences, hosting monthly presentations and guest scholars.
Commitment to Community and Education
We are committed to providing a dynamic educational experience that combines dedicated faculty, engaged students, and a strong focus on community impact, preparing students to contribute positively to society and future generations.
Explore The Civic Engagement Learning Lab (CELL)
Advancing Public Good through Experiential Learning and Leadership
The Civic Engagement Learning Lab (CELL) is an initiative within the Department of Public Administration that offers a dynamic platform for advancing public good through hands-on learning and leadership in volunteering, nonprofit management, and local governance. CELL focuses on:
- Experiential Learning: Gain practical experience through internships and service-learning projects that connect students with real-world organizations and community needs.
- Professional Development: Participate in specialized training and development programs designed to enhance your skills and career prospects in the public and nonprofit sectors.
- Research and Collaboration: Engage in applied and scholarly research that benefits communities and fosters partnerships with nonprofits and local governments.