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Non-Profit and Public Administration

Non-profit and public administration is both a field of study for further academic work, for example earning a master’s degree in public administration or non-profit management, and a field of study that is highly compatible with a major in political science, sociology, criminal justice, business, law, and many other fields. There is a wide variety of jobs in non-profit and public administration, and the field is geared toward improving the lives of citizens in all walks of life.

Why study Non-Profit and Public Administration at TMU?

The non-profit and public administration program offers a broad introduction to the field, several opportunities to take relevant classes from a diverse faculty and melds well with existing Thomas More program offerings. In addition, the experiential requirement enables students to gain actual work experience prior to graduation.

What will I be doing?

Students will be gaining perspectives both in a theoretical and pragmatic sense from a variety of faculty with work experience in the field, applying knowledge in the classroom, and through experiential learning opportunities. They will be learning to think critically about the challenges of public administration and public institutions in solving issues that affect our society.

Who will I be learning from?

Dr. John T. Spence, AICP, Associate Professor of political science, has worked in both the public and private sectors and has over 20 years of experience in community planning and development, worked in local and regional governance agencies, and has been a board member of several non-profits as well as served as an elected official. Dr. Maria Mitchell, Professor of accounting, worked on the audit staff of the international accounting firm KPMG and for a global industrial products company where she was responsible for financial reporting and served on teams that worked on cost management projects and acquisitions and divestitures. Other faculty members are selected by the student based upon their elective area of interest.

Where do alumni work or pursue advanced degrees?

Alumni seek opportunities with nonprofit and public organizations, for profit business settings, and social service organizations. The minor also serves to prepare students for graduate studies in a variety of related fields including personnel management, public law, and social justice.

What careers will be open to me?

Public service organizations depend upon people who understand the common good and how we arrive at determining what that means, the strong sense of commitment to community, and an interest in social justice.

Job opportunities would include the following:

  • Local, regional, and state government
  • Education and hospital administration
  • Nonprofit organizations including agencies that focus on social service delivery

What experiential learning opportunities will I have?

Students will have the opportunity to take part in internships with nonprofits, public agencies of local and state government, and social service agencies.