Welcome to Public Administration!
Hello and welcome to our Public Administration course! I’m excited to have you join us this semester as we explore the vital role that public administration plays in shaping our communities and the world around us. Whether you’re considering a career in government, non-profits, or simply want to understand how policies and public services are managed, this course will provide valuable insights and practical knowledge.
Why Study Public Administration?
Public administration is the engine that keeps society running smoothly. From ensuring public safety and delivering healthcare services to developing infrastructure and managing local resources, public administrators make decisions that directly impact our daily lives. Studying public administration helps us understand how these decisions are made, how policies are implemented, and how we as citizens can engage with and improve the systems that serve us.
This course will guide you through the complexities of government operations, organizational behavior, and public policy. By the end of the semester, you’ll have a deeper appreciation of the democratic process and the administrative structures that support it.
About This Course
We’ll be using Politics of the Administrative Process (9th edition) by Donald F. Kettl as our primary textbook. This text is essential and will serve as the foundation for our discussions, case studies, and assignments. You can purchase en eBook or a hardcopy online.
Required Textbook:
Politics of the Administrative Process, 9th Edition
by Donald F. Kettl, CQ Press, SAGE Publications
ISBN: 9781071875551
Throughout the course, we’ll delve into topics like accountability, organizational theory, budgeting, and the role of the executive branch. Each module will include reading assignments, case studies, and engaging discussions to enhance your learning experience.
Course Resources and Communication
If you have registered to take this course at Southwestern College, the course will be hosted on Canvas, and I encourage you to check in regularly for announcements, assignments, and supplemental resources. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out through Canvas. If you are not a registered student, feel free to reach out via the contact form on this site. I look forward to connecting with each of you and building a collaborative and engaging learning environment.
Let’s get started!
Professor Gandarilla's Classroom 