Master's Degree in
Public Administration with Specialization
Degree to be obtained
Master's Degree in Public Administration with Specialization
Academic degree
Master's Degree
Duration
2 years and 3 months
Modality
Virtual
Schedule:
Saturday session
Career description

A Master's in Public Administration is a postgraduate program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of concepts, theories, and practices related to administration and leadership in the public sector. This master's program focuses on training professionals to address the specific challenges and demands of management in government and non-profit organizations. Below are some key aspects typically addressed in a Master's in Public Administration program:

Public Policies: study of government policies and processes for formulating, implementing, and evaluating policies to address social, economic, and environmental issues.

Public Administration: focus on the organization, planning, coordination, and management of government entities and non-profit institutions. This includes learning about budgets, human resources, project management, and strategic decision-making.

Leadership and Ethics: development of effective and ethical leadership skills in the context of the public sector, promoting values such as transparency, accountability, and equity.

Economics and Public Finance: learning about the economics of the public sector, how government programs are financed, and how financial resources are efficiently managed.

Law and Public Policies: analysis of laws and regulations governing the functioning of the public sector and their impact on policy development and implementation.

Project Management and Evaluation: addressing techniques for planning, implementing, and evaluating government programs and projects, with a focus on measuring impact and efficiency.

Innovation and Technology in the Public Sector: exploration of how information and communication technologies can improve efficiency and service delivery in the public realm.

International Relations and Global Governance: analysis of the role of the public sector in the international context and how governments collaborate on global issues.

Graduates of a Master's in Public Administration are prepared to take on leadership roles in government, non-governmental organizations, international agencies, and other entities related to the public sector. They also acquire transferable skills such as problem-solving, effective communication, and strategic decision-making, which are valuable in a variety of professional fields.

What will you learn during the program?

The Master's Degree in Public Administration is a postgraduate program designed to prepare professionals to lead and manage government and non-profit organizations. The main goal of this master's program is to provide students with the skills and knowledge that are required to address the complex challenges facing the public sector today. Here are some common topics typically covered in a Master's in Public Administration:

Politics and government: study of political and governmental systems, as well as political theories and practices influencing decision-making and policy implementation.

Public economics: exploration of economic concepts applied to the public sector, such as resource allocation, fiscal policy, and cost-benefit analysis of government policies.

Public administration and management: topics related to human resource management, strategic planning, financial management, and project administration in governmental organizations.

Public policies: analysis of different public policies, their formulation, implementation, and evaluation. Areas such as education, health, environment, security, etc.

Law and public ethics: examination of laws and regulations related to government and exploration of specific ethical issues arising in the public sector.

Project and program management: emphasis on effective planning and execution of government projects and programs.

Leadership and communication: development of leadership and communication skills necessary to interact with diverse stakeholders and lead teams in the public service environment.

Public policy analysis: teaching techniques for evaluating and analyzing public policies and their impacts.

Technology and e-government: exploration of technology trends in the public sector and how it can be used to improve efficiency and transparency.

Sustainable development and environment: addressing topics related to sustainability, environmental management, and urban development.

AdmissionProfile

The admission profile for a candidate interested in pursuing a Master's in Public Administration should encompass common characteristics and skills that will assist them in succeeding in the program and in the field of public administration. Some important aspects of the admission profile are as follows:

Academic background: the candidate should hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent in areas related to social sciences, public administration, public policy, law, economics, international relations, or related fields. This educational foundation will provide a prior understanding of fundamental concepts and theories in the field of public administration.

Professional experience: while not a mandatory requirement, experience in the public sector is valued.

Leadership and management Skills: public administration involves leading and coordinating teams, making strategic decisions, and managing resources effectively. Applicants must demonstrate leadership skills, project management capabilities, and the ability to work in complex and multidisciplinary environments.

Knowledge of public policies: basic knowledge of public policies and political processes is essential. Candidates should be familiar with approaches and methods for policy analysis and formulation, as well as the evaluation of government programs.

Analytical skills: public administration requires the ability to analyze data, interpret information, and make evidence-based decisions. Applicants should possess strong analytical skills and be familiar with analysis tools and techniques.

Communication skills: effective communication is crucial in public administration, whether presenting proposals, drafting reports, negotiating with different stakeholders, or communicating with the public. The ability to express oneself clearly in both written and verbal forms is highly valued.

Awareness of political and social context: candidates for this Master's in Public Administration should be aware of the political and social challenges and dynamics in their country or region, as well as broader global issues.

Motivation and commitment: public administration is a vocation that requires a high level of commitment to the welfare of society and public service. Applicants must demonstrate motivation and passion for working to improve people's quality of life and contribute to the common good.


Graduate'sProfile

The graduate profile for the Master's in Public Administration generally refers to the competencies, skills, and knowledge expected of students upon completing the program. These skills and knowledge are designed to prepare graduates to face the challenges of public management and enable them to contribute effectively to the development and improvement of public policies, decision-making, and resource administration in government and non-profit organizations.

Leadership and organizational management: develop the ability to lead teams and effectively manage public organizations by setting clear objectives, motivating staff, and fostering a collaborative work environment.

Policy analysis and evaluation: possess skills to analyze and evaluate existing public policies, proposing evidence-based improvements, considering economic, social, and political aspects.

Budgeting and resource management: develop competencies in planning and executing public budgets, as well as efficiently managing resources to achieve organizational objectives.

Law and ethics in public administration: acquire knowledge of legislation and regulations applicable to public management, along with the ability to make ethical decisions in the public service. Demonstrate effective communication with diverse internal and external stakeholders and develop public relations strategies to promote transparency and accountability.

Change management and problem solving: demonstrate the ability to identify complex problems and propose innovative solutions, as well as lead organizational change processes. Emphasize awareness of the importance of sustainable development and social responsibility in governmental decision-making and the management of public projects and programs.

Technological proficiency: develop knowledge of technological tools and information systems used in public administration to enhance efficiency and service quality.

Project planning and evaluation: dcquire skills to plan, execute, and evaluate public projects, measuring their impact and ensuring effectiveness in achieving proposed objectives.

Collaboration and international cooperation: develop an awareness of the importance of collaboration between different levels of government and international organizations to address common problems and challenges.

Career Opportunities

The Master's in Public Administration graduate can pursue opportunities in various sectors and roles, including:

Government agencies: at local or central government levels, holding positions such as managers, program directors, public policy analysts, or strategic planners.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Many NGOs also require professionals with public management skills to manage projects, implement social programs, conduct advocacy campaigns, among other activities.

International Organizations: some international organizations such as the United Nations, the World Bank, and the European Union seek public management experts to work on development projects and public policies in different countries.

Consultancy: graduates of the Master's in Public Administration can offer their services as consultants to government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations, providing advice on public policies, governance, and development.

Private Sector: although less common, some private companies may hire professionals with knowledge in public management to work on government relations, corporate social responsibility, and sustainable development issues.

Education and academia: some graduates may choose a career in teaching or research at universities and educational institutions, sharing their expertise in public management with future students and conducting research on relevant topics.

Local and regional development: They can work in local or regional governments to design and implement economic, social, and environmental development strategies.

Politics and political advisory: some graduates may enter the political arena, working as advisors in political campaigns or serving as officials in government cabinets.

Curriculum

Ciclo INTRODUCCIÓN A LA FUNCIÓN PÚBLICA Y DESARROLLO DE CARRERA MANEJO DE TECNOLOGÍA DE APRENDIZAJE
Ciclo EL ESTADO MODERNO METODOLOGÍA DE LA INVESTIGACIÓN SOCIAL
Ciclo FUNDAMENTOS DE LA ADMINISTRACIÓN PÚBLICA TÉCNICAS DE PLANIFICACIÓN
Ciclo FINANZAS PÚBLICAS GERENCIA PÚBLICA
Ciclo ADMINISTRACIÓN PÚBLICA COMPARADA GOBERNABILIDAD Y GOBERNANZA
* This curriculum is for informational purposes only, if you need an official curriculum please request it at the faculty office, career direction office, or University Center office.
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Contact information

3a. Avenida 8-36, Interior Finca El Zapote, zona 2, Guatemala, Guatemala Office Hours: Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 17:00 hours