Public Service, BS

The Bachelor of Science in Public Service provides you with the professional skills for careers in government and other public service organizations. This major also provides a strong foundation for those who want to continue their education in public service.

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What Will I Learn?

Curriculum for this major emphasizes developing professional and analytical skills. Core courses focus on:

State and local government
Public policy analysis
Budgeting and financial management
Personnel administration
Research methods

You will also take electives, allowing you to pursue your unique interests.

What are the requirements for this degree?

The program requires 27 credits from the core curriculum, six credits from public service electives, six credits from political science electives and three credits from allied fields.

What Degrees Are Similar or Might Pair Well With This Program?

You are encouraged to earn a minor, certificate or even a dual degree. A number of programs complement this major well, including:

Geographic Information Systems
Sociology
History
Business
Sustainability

4+1 Program

Students interested in graduate studies in public administration should consider Ship's 4+1 Masters in Public Administration program. Undergraduate students enrolled in the 4+1 MPA program may take selected graduate courses during their senior year and apply the credits to both their undergraduate and graduate degrees, thus accelerating their graduate course of study.

What Types of Careers Could I Get With This Degree?

If you are interested in careers in public service you will find this major well-suited for your career ambitions. Our graduates secure jobs in local, state, and federal government agencies, non-profit organizations and the private sector.

What Kinds of Experiences Could I Have?

Your classroom experience can be complemented by field trips, study abroad opportunities, in-class simulations, nationally-known speakers and job shadowing. Classes are taught by an accomplished faculty; all faculty hold doctorates from major universities. The program also offers opportunities for you to complete internships with public service organizations in local, state, or federal agencies, as well as nonprofit organizations.

During your time at Ship, you will also have access to the impressive government documents collection in Ezra Lehman Memorial Library.

You may also have the opportunity to get involved with Pi Alpha Alpha, the national public administration honor society. Our chapter has won national awards.