Welcome to the Department of Public Administration

With twelve full-time faculty and three practitioners-in-residence, the department provides a strong academic and intentionally practical education that results in diverse and vital career paths for graduates and undergraduates. Graduate students can pursue an MPA, currently ranked #9 in Homeland Security and Emergency Management and #11 in Local Government Management by U.S. News and World Report, or a Ph.D. in Public Administration and Management. Undergraduates can choose a degree in Urban Policy and Planning (UPOP) or Nonprofit Leadership Studies (NPLS), or minors in UPOP, NPLS or PA. We also offer certificate programs in volunteer management and conflict resolution (CR). The department’s in-house internship coordinator helps students take the first step on their career path.

We are excited to announce the creation of an endowed fund for a professorship to honor George R. Schrader, the 10th city manager of Dallas (from 1972 to 1981), a pioneer for modern city management and a staunch champion for the council‐manager form of government. Learn more about the George R. Schrader Professor of Practice in Local Government Management.