Academics: Public Administration

You want a career that means something. One that’s driven by purpose, not profits. In public service, people are your bottom line. From city halls to nonprofit boardrooms, public administrators create lasting change by improving lives and strengthening communities.

At UCF’s School of Public Administration, we turn your passion for service into a rewarding career. Our undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs are built on real-world learning, deep community engagement and a commitment to working across sectors — including nonprofits and private partners — to achieve public good. Here, you’ll gain the leadership tools, budgeting know-how, ethical grounding and management skills to make a real difference locally, nationally, even globally.

You won’t do it alone. You’ll learn alongside renown faculty who lead in the field and peers who share your drive. And with flexible options — including online, in-person at UCF Downtown, or a mix of both — you can earn your degree on your terms.

We’re proud to be nationally ranked for our excellence in public administration and our master’s in pubic administration is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration — the gold standard in public service education.

A career in public service puts people first. Begin yours here.

Student Experience

At the School of Public Administration, we capitalize on our downtown location to take learning beyond the classroom. Whether you’re an undergrad just starting your journey or a grad student enhancing your skills, our programs are designed with hands-on experience at the core.

From class trips to City Hall to tours of local nonprofits, you'll be in the center of where public service happens in Orlando. Public leadership lessons come alive as you see them up close, meeting with local leaders and city councilmembers, and working on real projects that impact real communities. Our downtown location places you steps away from government offices and community organizations that shape the future of the region.

Student Organizations

Public service starts with connection, and one of the best ways to serve and grow is by joining a student organization. The student chapter of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) connects you to a national network of public service leaders. Through workshops, guest speakers and networking events, you'll discover insights into careers in local government.

The ICMA Student Chapter allows you to work alongside peers who are just as passionate about public service, while learning from professionals who have shaped city and county leadership across the country. Start building your future in public service today—join the ICMA Student Chapter today.

Internships

Undergraduate Students

Internships are a required part of your experience because there’s no better way to learn than by doing. Whether you’re working in city government or helping a nonprofit expand its impact, you’ll graduate with a resume that speaks volumes. Already working in a related role? You may be eligible for a waiver. Our dedicated experiential learning coordinator will help you find the placement that fits your goals.

Graduate Students

While internships are optional at the graduate level, they’re highly encouraged, especially for students without prior professional experience. Many of our graduate students secure internships with local governments, community-based nonprofits, or state agencies, gaining valuable, real-world skills that kick their future careers into high gear. Some even land opportunities in Washington, D.C., working on national policy or public affairs initiatives.

Another standout opportunity is the City of Orlando Fellowship, a competitive program that places a select few graduate students in impactful, high-level roles within city departments, offering hands-on experience at the heart of local government. Grad students interested in internship placements or the City of Orlando Fellowship can contact Edlira Dursun, program coordinator, for more information.

Student Research Opportunities

The Honors Undergraduate Thesis (HUT) program gives you a chance to explore a topic you’re passionate about and publish original work before you earn your bachelor’s degree. Over two to four semesters, you’ll conduct original research, write and defend a thesis, and collaborate closely with a faculty committee who guides your progress.

HUT is a rigorous academic experience designed for students who want to challenge themselves, deepen their expertise and prepare for graduate study or competitive careers. Your final thesis will be published through the UCF library and shared with researchers around the world.

Visit the Honors Undergraduate Thesis website to learn more.

Public service doesn’t happen in a vacuum, and neither should your education. That’s why partnerships with local governments, nonprofits and public sector organizations are woven into your academic experience. From class trips exploring how a city department operates, to working with a nonprofit to develop a strategic plan, or interning with a local agency, our partnerships bring your coursework to life. These experiences enrich your understanding of public systems, help you apply theory to practice and give you a real-world perspective, guided by input from our Public Administration Advisory Board. Together, these connections strengthen our program and contribute to our national and global recognition as a leader in public service education.

Advisory Board

One of the many reasons our program ranks No. 6 in Best Online Master’s (OnlineMastersDegrees.org) and No. 20 worldwide (Shanghai Ranking Consultancy) is our outstanding Advisory Board. Comprised of 20 seasoned professionals in the field of public administration, the board provides highly valuable insights and expertise that helps to shape the direction and quality of our academic programs. Together with our faculty, the board ensures that the curriculum remains relevant and aligned with the changing needs of public service. Their active involvement in strategic planning, program evaluation and community engagement initiatives helps bridge the gap between academics and practical application, enriching the educational experience for students and preparing them to meet the high expectations for accountability and performance in public sector roles.

Capstone Projects

As a master’s student, your final semester brings classroom learning full circle. Through capstone courses, you’ll partner with a local government or nonprofit organization to tackle a real challenge they’re facing. From creating a strategic plan to conducting policy research, these projects let you apply what you’ve learned while delivering real value to the community, all while building your professional portfolio.

Service to Service Program

If you’re a veteran ready to continue your service in a new way, the Service to Service initiative can help you take the next step.

Specifically designed to support your transition from military service to civilian leadership, this program connects you with graduate education in public administration and public affairs. UCF is proud to be just one of just 12 universities nationwide selected as a pilot sites, offering access to scholarships, GI Bill benefits and a strong support network to help you succeed.

Consistently recognized as a military-friendly university, UCF also provides support through the UCF Veterans Academic Resource Center (VARC), where you’ll connect with mentorship, academic guidance and career development tailored to public sector careers. Build on the experience you’ve already gained and prepare for meaningful roles in local and state government.

Academics

Degree Programs

Undergraduate Degrees

Graduate Degrees