How the Public Administration Major Prepares You for the Job Market
Public administration majors focus on the relationship between public policies and the effects of those policies on the community as well as the relationships inside organized governments and how they are run. These majors are often passionate about politics and public policy, though they may not want to pursue a career in the limelight of politics. Instead, public administrators have the option of working behind the scenes, evaluating public servants and proposed policies and determining which policies are the best choices in terms of effectiveness and required effort, according to the University of Oklahomaís Department of Political Science. Public administration majors take courses in business administration, social sciences, economics, and other topics related to bettering the studentís understanding of public policies and the government. This educational background, coupled with intensive research projects and the experience gained from internships and other programs, provides public administration majors with the knowledge and skills that employers seek.
Best Career Paths for Public Administration Majors
Many rewarding career options are open to public administration majors who are willing to take on the responsibilities of a leadership role. The best career paths for public administration majors are:
- Tax Examiner. Tax examiners have the responsibility of ensuring that the tax return process for individuals and small businesses goes smoothly. They check filed forms for accuracy and eligibility, making certain that the claims made by the individual are within the parameters for a full tax return. Tax examiners must be aware of the differences between the local and Federal government tax rates, and often contact those who have either over or underpaid their taxes to ensure that the correct amount is received. Tax examiners make an average salary of $48,100 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Administration. Administrators ensure that any part of a company runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible. They are responsible for motivating and organizing other employees, as well as planning for future business tactics and overseeing duties such as resolving customer or employee disputes. Public administration majors may work in administration of non-profits or multinational corporations, helping companies deal with government guidelines for conducting business or assisting in international relations. Administrators make an average salary of $77,040 annually, according to the Bureau.
How to Market Your Public Administration Degree
The public administration degree is hard-earned and truly rewarding. Public administration majors have skills in public speaking, research, working with the best interests of the public and organization to produce the best possible policies, constructive thought, and many other traits that are valuable characteristics of successful leaders and thinkers. In order to market your public administration degree to potential employers, take care to mention all of the skills your degree has taught you. Participating in internships and groups that pertain to politics in order to prove that you are passionate and driven in the administrative field will also boost your resume. Other attributes unrelated to public administration should be brought up as well, such as the quick and thorough research skills you developed from having to study complex cases as well as the writing skills you learned from class writing assignments and debates.
