Associates of Public Administration
School of Social and Human Studies
Academic Freedom to Discover Your Purpose
Open Curriculum Design at Atlantic International University
A growing number of students are being drawn to pursue an Associate of Public Administration in Atlantic International University (AIU). The primary objective for the degree program will meet the needs of students who desire to obtain skills in providing effective public service, governance and community development. The degree gives the students the opportunity to support AIU’s philosophy of academic freedom and andragogy, which encourages students to examine public administration using a flexible, self-directed, and interdisciplinary format. Students will actually learn public policy, administrative systems, ethics, and organizational management. Students also develop critical thinking and leadership skills to prepare for success in either the public or non-profit sectors. UI’s degree program is designed for both aspiring administrators and for currently-working professionals and has been created to help students deal with the real-world challenges facing public institutions by preparing them with innovative, responsible, worldwide awareness.
Contact Us Today!
Begin Your Journey!
AIU’s Summer of Innovation and Growth gives you the ability to earn up to $5000 in tuition credit by completing free lessons and courses.
Whether you’re looking to acquire new skills, advance your career, or simply explore new interests, AIU is your gateway to a world of opportunities. With free access to 3400 lessons and hundreds of courses the ability to earn credits and earn certificates there’s no better time to start learning.
Join us today as a Guest Student and take the first step towards a brighter, more empowered future.
Explore. Learn. Achieve.
What are the Core Courses & Topics for Associates of Public Administration ?
Important: Below is an example of the topics or areas you may develop and work on during your studies. By no means is it a complete or required list, as AIU programs do not follow a standardized curriculum. It is meant solely as a reference point and example. Want to learn more about the curriculum design at AIU?
Check here: Course and Curriculum
At AIU, students working toward an Associates in Public Administration understand that the public sector has many moving parts. They learn about the connection between these pieces and how together they make a complete and adaptable program that is based on actual administrative issues and the public administration associate course student’s goals for entering the job market.
- Introduction to Public Policy
- Government and Administrative Systems
- Public Finance and Budgeting
- Organizational Behavior in the Public Sector
- Community Development and Public Service
- Strategic Planning in Government
What are the Orientation Courses for Associates of Public Administration ?
The courses in the Associate of Public Administration program at AIU not only help students acclimate to AIU’s Andragogical and Self-Directed Learning environment but also teach essential skills for managing their studies successfully. Through the orientation program, students learn how to prepare public administration associate studies students an Academic Plan, set goals, perform basic research, conduct ethical scholarship and develop their effective communication skills. Students are also introduced to AIU’s Digital Library Resources and Online Learning Platforms and will become acquainted with AIU’s Assessment Methods, as well as Critical Thinking, Time Management and Independent Study Techniques. The orientation program enables students to be ready to begin their Public Administration academic careers and to assume complete responsibility for their educational experience.
- Communication & Investigation (Comprehensive Resume)
- Seminar Administrative Development (Book Summary)
- Organization Theory (Portfolio)
- Seminar Cultural Development (Practical Experience)
- Experiential Learning (Autobiography)
- Seminar International Development (Publications)
What are the Research Projects for Associates of Public Administration ?
Research projects will assist students in developing critical-thinking and research-literate skills through problem-solving. Additionally, research projects allow students to align their academic interests with their professional goals through the selection of associate degree in public administration research topics based on their individual needs or desires. Lastly, due to AIU’s andragogical model of education, public administration associate degree students can develop real-world solutions that address current governmental and societal priorities.
Publication – In order to encourage the publication of research results (including policy insights) and formative experiences and to provide an opportunity for students to communicate their thoughts and ideas, AIU publishes student research in the field of Public Administration. In addition to publishing peer-reviewed articles on research subjects including governance/public policy, ethical Standards, community development/public sector reform, and other relevant topics, students will also be able to submit their research as case studies, policy briefs or scholarly articles. As part of its commitment to helping develop future public administrators and public service leaders, AIU provides the support necessary for students to write quality scholarly research and contribute informed perspectives to discussions about the public administration or public service fields.
Portfolio Submission
The Associate of Public Administration Portfolio Submission at AIU is a complete documentation of the student’s academic advancement in the program, including academic growth, learning results, and applied accomplishments. The contents of the Portfolio consist of a variety of course summaries, research reports, policy evaluations, reflective pieces, and applied cases that relate to public administration and governance.
The associate in public administration online portfolio represents a comprehensive record of what the student has learned about the principles of public administration, the student’s use of critical thinking skills, and the ability of the student to think critically and solve problems. In accordance with AIU’s Andragogical Model and Self-Directed Learning Model, the Portfolio allows the student to demonstrate his/her competencies, the student’s professional development and the preparation of the student for either future academic study or to be employed in the public sector.
Associates of Public Administration Student Experience
A dynamic, student-focused experience combining AI and personalized intelligence for the Associate Degree in Public Administration at American International University by providing students with individualized academic support based on their personal academic goals and interests. Students receive a customized student journey through advanced AI technology, including a public administration associate degree online customized learning path, recommended learning materials, and assistance in completing individualized research projects. The use of advanced AI tools also enables students to conduct contemporary, critical analysis of reports on key public policy issues, administrative case studies, and current governance models while simultaneously obtaining, in real time, access to all academic databases available worldwide. The advantage of using these public administration associate program technological advances provides students with the benefits of both self-paced study and data-based decision making while developing the skills necessary for success in evolving, technologically sophisticated environments in the public sector.
Community & Social
AIU affords students pursuing Associate degrees in PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION the opportunity to connect deeply with each other and AIU’s diverse faculty, staff, and student body through THEMED community and social engagement activities while exploring such themes as GOVERNANCE, PUBLIC POLICY, and SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT. Because of the opportunity to communicate and share ideas among themselves, faculty, and industry experts, students enhance their understanding of these subjects through multiple channels, including collaborative projects between faculty and students and participation in community service programs related to each theme. In addition to other methods of connecting students with each other and the community surrounding them, students develop their skills in effective communication, leadership, and taking responsibility as engaged citizens when participating in community-connected initiatives in public management that highlight the need for ethical, responsive, and sustainable communities through PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION.
Academic Resources
AIU provides extensive academic resources that support students’ ability to learn independently and effectively throughout their education in the Public Administration program. Students can take advantage of AIU’s virtual library, associate of public administration academic journals, eBooks, research databases, recorded lectures, and other multimedia learning resources for the Public Administration and Governance disciplines. In addition to this, students have access to AI-enabled research tools, writing citation assistance, global policy documents and case studies. All of the AIU academic resources assist government administration students with developing deep analytical skills conducting thorough research on current events in the Public Sector, and enabling the associate of public administration student to follow a self-directed, flexible and andragogical learning experience offered by AIU.
Virtual Campus
Complete assignments online or offline at your convenience with 24/7 access to distance learning through AIU’s Virtual Campus. Step by Step guides including videos, tutorials, live webinars and examples for each course. All materials can be access on all web browsers as well as via AIU's Mobile App which brings all the features of the Virtual Camus to your Mobile Device.
My AIU Elements
MyAIU’s primary goal is to go beyond Academics, it looks to guide students through 11 elements that are key to living life optimally in all aspects. By identifying and reflecting on these key areas, an opportunity arises to holistically address them, through positive change, habits, reinforcement and tools to keep students on their chosen path.
AIU TV & Radio
The students have the opportunity to produce, edit and host their own show reaching a worldwide audience, the AIU community and giving notice of their expertise/passion in the subject. AIUTV & AIU Radio allow students to explore new ways to communicate, develop a platform and form potential collaboration with likeminded individuals.
AIU Campus Mundi
AIU Campus Mundi is a monthly magazine that gathers the most notable news and information about the university and its members in one convenient place. The magazine allows our community to be well informed, involved and keep in tough regardless of their geographic location. AIU Campus Mundi publishes, news, research, events, awards, academic achievements.
Graduation Ceremony
Each year AIU organizes graduation ceremonies where the students can assist and share their experiences with fellow students and academic members Participation in the ceremony is optional, the day’s events include conferences, research presentations, group meetings, networking, lunch and formal dinner.
Symposiums & Webinars
AIU’s Association of Public Affairs International Symposium provides members with access to a breadth of International Perspectives on Governance, Policy and Administrative Leadership from around the world. Participants can engage with Faculty, Government, Non-Profit and Private Sector leaders as well as Experts in the field at these Symposium Events to discuss current and emerging trends associated with Public Administration.
Live Classes
At AIU, students enrolled in the Associate of Public Administration program participate in two scheduled life instructional sessions per day. These sessions are conducted in real-time and provide students with various ways to interact with faculty and their fellow students in the learning process. Faculty of these classes lead discussions on a range of current issues related to public administration, including governance, public policy, ethics, leadership and administration/management.
In addition, faculty members discuss issues facing the public sector locally and globally. Students can also have the opportunity to engage with faculty in an interactive manner, participate in question-and-answer sessions, and participate in discussions with other students both locally and globally. By providing daily interactive instructional sessions, students are able to enhance their academic engagement, reinforce key concepts learned and further develop their own unique style of learning through AIU’s self-directed and blended learning experiences.
Special Projects, Research Publications, & Co-Authoring
Through Special Projects and Research Publications in addition to Co-authoring opportunities as an Associate of Public Administration at AIU, students have the ability to participate in real-world application of problems associated with the Public Sector environment which contributes to the creation and advancement of new knowledge through scholarly work and professional development.
Furthermore, students are provided the opportunity to conduct Applied Special Projects that can be independently designed on Governance (i.e., Public Policy), or Community Development; or alternatively, they may collaborate with each other on their own complete Applied Special Projects. Students are encouraged to publish their Research Papers, as well as Policy Briefs and Case Studies, and also participate as Co-Authors with Faculty or other students. All of the above contribute to the student’s overall ability to build strong Research, Writing, and Analytical skills and demonstrate Academic Credibility, Professional Visibility, and Understanding of the discipline in Global Terms.
Apply Now for AIU’s Associate of Public Administration
Click Here
Career Center for Associates of Public Administration
AIU’s Career Center offers comprehensive assistance to support students dedicated to a future in Public Administration through their Associate of Public Administration program, providing essential resources to prepare them for rewarding careers in public service and other related fields. Career counseling services include helping students develop their resumes and cover letters; preparing for job interviews; identifying possible career paths within governmental agencies and non-profit organizations; providing access to Community-Based Institutions; providing professional development and skill-building resources; aligning student’s professional development to their current academic goals; preparing students for career transition as well as continued education in the field of Public Administration and Governance after they complete their degree.
Job Description
AIU graduates from the Associate of Public Administration program have gained basic knowledge and skills necessary for the successful operation of local government, nonprofit and community-based organizations. They have a foundation for a future career in these fields and can work in entry-level/equivalent support positions that will enable them to add to the efficiency of administration, implement and/or manage policies, as well as provide services to the public through government, social service agencies.
Some examples of possible job positions include:
- Administrative support position with a government agency
- Policy implementation project support staffing position
- Employee working within a local and or municipal community government
- Community Development Coordinator
- Public Sector Program Assistant, Non-Profit organizations
- Non-profit administration assistant
- Media and community relations support
Tools for Associates of Public Administration
Tools and technologies supporting this degree (Associate of Public Administration at AIU) enable students to maximize their learning, research, and practical skills acquisition in regards to Public Administration. The educational environment allows for the use of AI technology for online learning, e-books (digital resources), online research and citation creation, databases of government policy, virtual tools for collaboration and communication, and a system for tracking academic accomplishments.
Using these technologies helps to produce better policy analyses, data management, report creation, and collaborative projects as well as giving students the ability to manage their time while working on their education in a manner that best suits their needs. When using these modern types of digital technology, students gain the knowledge base to be prepared to enter a public administration and governance environment that is driven by technology.
- Google Scholar – https://scholar.google.com
- JSTOR – https://www.jstor.org
- ResearchGate – https://www.researchgate.net
- Zotero – https://www.zotero.org
- Mendeley – https://www.mendeley.com
- Grammarly – https://www.grammarly.com
- Microsoft Teams – https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-teams
- Zoom – https://zoom.us
- Trello (project & task management) – https://trello.com
- Canva (presentations & reports) – https://www.canva.com
Associations for Associates of Public Administration Professionals
Students enrolled in an Associate of Public Administration may participate in professional associations that will help them remain updated on trends in public service/government; building connections with others; and learning about the latest issues in the field. As members or participants of these associations, students are able to take advantage of a wide variety of resources such as; newsletters, research reports, training programs, conference materials, and resources to continue their professional development. Associations involving public administration and public policy expose students to best practices, ethical behaviour, and worldwide perspectives, aiding their career advancement and ongoing education in both the public and nonprofit sectors.
- American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) – https://www.aspanet.org
- International Institute of Administrative Sciences (IIAS) – https://www.iias-iisa.org
- International Public Policy Association (IPPA) – https://www.ippapublicpolicy.org
- Public Administration Section – International Studies Association (ISA) – https://www.isanet.org
- Commonwealth Association for Public Administration and Management (CAPAM) – https://www.capam.org
- International City/County Management Association (ICMA) – https://www.icma.org
- National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA) – https://www.naspaa.org
- Transparency International (governance & public accountability) – https://www.transparency.org
Evolve with AIU
Begin Today
Associates of Public Administration Admission Requirements
To be admitted into the Associate of Public Administration program offered by Atlantic International University (AIU), applicants need to hold at least a High School Diploma or GED as evidence of their academic achievement. This requirement guarantees that the prospective Student has the basic tools and the Academic foundation necessary to pursue higher education in the subject area of Public Administration.AIU’s approach to Admissions is open and flexible. It invites applicants who have the motivation and desire to learn, regardless of their previous education or professional background. The intent of Admission policies is to help prepare future Leaders to develop the skills required for working effectively within Government, Non-Profit Organizations, and Business through Independent Learning.
How Can You Apply?
AIU has arranged the following application process for its Associate of Public Administration program. To start with, you must fill out and submit an online application including information about you, your academic history, and how to contact you. You will also need to prove that you have either a high school diploma or a General Education Development certification as part of the institution’s admission requirements. After you submit your application, you need to tell the admissions staff the goals you wish to accomplish through your college education (this could include your career goals or specific areas of public administration that may interest you).
Once your application has been reviewed by the admissions team, they will determine whether or not you are eligible for admission into the Associate of Public Administration program based on how closely aligned your application is to the purpose of the program that you applied for. If your application is approved, you will receive a letter stating that you have been accepted along with further instructions regarding your acceptance into the Associate of Public Administration program. Finally, once you have completed the formalities of enrollment and received your orientation packet; you will have access to all of AIU’s academic resources and learning platforms.
Financial Support & Scholarships
AIU provides financial support and scholarship opportunities through the Associate of Public Administration program if you qualify for financial assistance based on need or based on merit via a scholarship. AIU also offers flexible tuition plans for students of varying economic backgrounds. AIU believes that everyone has a right to an education and works hard to minimize the financial burden placed upon students through supporting financial aid processes and providing individualized assistance throughout the application process. As a result, students pursuing a degree in public administration can concentrate on their studies and become professionally prepared while not having to worry about how they will pay for school.
What’s the Cost Per Year for Pursuing Associates of Public Administration at AIU?
AIU has designed its Associate Degree Program in Public Administration to be both economical and malleable in terms of what students will pay for tuition. The tuition price can be broken up and the total amount can be paid off in increments over time versus making one large payment to cover the full amount.
By allowing students to make weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, etc., payments versus having to pay the entire tuition amount at once; students are able to better incorporate their education expenses into their overall financial plan versus if they were paying all at once.
Additionally; the payment program when combined with other forms of funding (scholarships/aid) will allow students to focus on both their education and their respective careers while minimally affecting their ability to manage their education-related finances.
FAQs
What is an Associate of Public Administration degree?
The Associate of Public Administration would be classified as an undergraduate course that will create a foundation of knowledge about how to conduct public policy, how to manage and lead administrative functions, and how to serve your community through public service. The degree is designed for students to start working as entry-level employees in the government and non-profit sector.
What can you do with an associate degree in public administration?
An Associate’s degree in Public Administration prepares you for entry-level employment within federal, state, and local governments, non-profit organizations, and/or community services as an example include: Administrative Support; Policy Support; Program Coordinator/Assistant and/or Public Service Management positions.
Is an Associate of Public Administration worth it?
Yes, it’s definitely worth it.
How long does it take to complete an Associate of Public Administration?
About 2 years.
