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Overview
Program Options
About the Program
Career Outlook
Next Steps
Are you passionate about making a difference in your community and leading efforts that promote the common good? The Public Leadership and Administration program offers knowledge and leadership skills needed to serve effectively in public nonprofit, and government roles. Professionals in this field work to achieve local, state, and national prominence through innovative instruction, scholarly research, and community service. They develop and enhance management skills essential for addressing the needs of evolving communities, ensuring effective governance, and implementing public policies.
At Jackson College, we offer a wide range of degrees and certificates designed to help you achieve your educational and career goals. The following options are available within this program.
Prepares students for careers or transfer in government, nonprofit leadership, and public service administration.
Covers core concepts in public administration for employment or advancement in government or nonprofit agencies.
The Public Leadership and Administration program at Jackson College is ideal for students seeking careers in government, non-profit organizations, or the private sector. You can earn an Associate of Arts degree and then transfer to a four-year university to continue your studies in public administration or earn a certificate for those looking to start or advance their careers. Our program includes courses that teach you essential management skills and how to analyze public policies. You’ll benefit from small class sizes, personalized support, and a strong academic environment that prepares you for entry-level jobs in public administration.
Examines the role, structure, and functions of public administration in government and nonprofit organizations. Topics include policy implementation, budgeting, and ethical leadership.
This course provides a focused introduction to leadership and financial management in the nonprofit sector. Students examine governance and accountability of nonprofit boards, funding challenges, program evaluation, strategic management theory and practice, the role of nonprofits in policymaking, and the unique aspects of nonprofit finance. With a focus on the intersection of leadership and financial management, students will explore critical aspects of nonprofit governance, strategic planning, and decision-making. Emphasis will be placed on budgeting practices, financial reporting, fundraising, and resource allocation, ensuring students understand how to develop and manage budgets that align with organizational missions. Additionally, students will examine leadership styles, managerial ethics, and stakeholder engagement, preparing them to navigate the unique challenges nonprofit leaders face. Real-world case studies and projects will allow students to apply concepts directly to nonprofit settings, gaining valuable, hands-on experience in the field.
Focuses on recruitment, hiring, training, performance appraisal, labor relations, and legal considerations within public and nonprofit organizations.
Public administrators face many policy issues today including social justice concerns, policy development and navigating through political and demographic shifts. In this course students will learn how to develop responses to public problems through policy making. Students will discuss challenges presented by a changing social and cultural environment such as cultural, racial, gender and value-related, financial, technological, institutional, and operational issues in which public organizations operate. This course will also provide students with the tools necessary to adapt public administration by taking a dynamic, pervasive, and proactive approach towards public policy that promote organizational goals and community centered programming around critical issues.
Students who complete the Public Leadership and Administration Certificate will be prepared for entry-level employment in government or non-profit agencies. The certificate program an ideal choice for those seeking to launch or advance their careers in public service.
Students who earn the Associate in Arts (AA) degree will be well-prepared for a variety of career opportunities in government, non-profit organizations, and private sector roles. Graduates can pursue positions such as public administrators, policy analysts, human resources managers, and non-profit leaders. The demand for professionals with public management skills and analytical techniques remains strong, driven by the need for effective governance and community service.
Oversees the daily operations of a city’s departments and implements policies set by elected officials.
Researches and evaluates government programs and policies to provide recommendations for improvements.
Manages programs within nonprofit organizations, including planning, budgeting, staffing, and community outreach.
Handles recruitment, benefits, and employee relations for government or nonprofit agencies.
Understanding potential earnings is an important part of exploring career options.
Salary estimates are based on data from America’s Career InfoNet and the Occupational Outlook Handbook. Actual earnings vary by location, industry demand, business size, education, and experience. Check local job listings for the most accurate salary information.
Are you interested or have questions about this program? Fill out our form to get answers and learn how Jackson College can support your goals.
Want to learn more about Jackson College? Contact Admissions or schedule a virtual or in-person meeting to get personalized guidance, take a campus tour, and explore your next steps.
Ready to take the next step? Follow our step-by-step application process to start your journey at Jackson College and turn your goals into reality.
