Appalachian State University
Political Science (BS) - Public Administration
Application Deadlines
Location
Boone campus
Got credits?
Learn about transferring credits to App State
Help shape public policy to improve your community.
Cities, towns and villages depend on advocates who are sensitive to the needs of their communities and possess the specialized knowledge and skills to make improvements that benefit the people who live there.
Through App State’s Bachelor of Science (BS) in Political Science - Public Administration degree program, you will develop an understanding of local and state government administration that will position you for roles through which you can make a difference in your community.
Choose one of two tracks: Public Management or Town, City and County Management. The Public Management track puts you on a path toward an administration career in a bureaucratic or public organization. The Town, City and County Management track provides a broad overview of administration within local governments.
Public Administration is a career path rife with opportunities for advancement, and App State’s excellent academic curriculum is designed to prepare you with industry-relevant qualifications.
A ‘Best College’ for 2025
The Princeton Review named App State among the best schools in the U.S. and Southeast for 2025.
Top 3 in innovation, undergraduate teaching
U.S. News & World Report has recognized App State as a top three school for innovation and the high quality of its undergraduate instruction for eight consecutive years.
A ‘Best College’ for value
App State’s quality, affordability and student outcomes place it among the nation’s 2024 best schools for value, according to Money.com
Innovative Academics
Courses
Minors
Public Management track:
A minor is required in Accounting, Criminal Justice, Healthcare Management, Human Resources Management, General Business, Non-profit Organizations or Sustainable Development. Other minors may be allowed with approval from your adviser and the department chair.
Town Administrator, City County Management track:
A minor in Community and Regional Planning is required.
Transferring Credits
Learn about App State’s credit transfer process, and use our Transfer Equivalency Course Search tool to determine how your courses may transfer to App State.
General Education
With courses in history, natural and social sciences and humanities, App State’s General Education Program will reshape your outlook on learning and provide a foundational skill set that will prepare you for any career.
Accelerated Master’s
You can begin your graduate studies as an undergraduate and earn your master’s degree in as little as one year.
Careers and Mountaineers
Where can an App State degree take you? Anywhere you want to go! Our passionate and engaged alumni become leaders in their communities and chosen professions.
Careers
- City Manager
- Community Relations Director
- Congressional Aide
- Legislative Analyst Lobbyist
- Public Administrator/Manager
- Public Relations Specialist
- Social Services Administrator
- Interest Group Director
- Urban/Regional Planner
Some of these roles may require education beyond a bachelor’s degree.
Career information resource
App State’s Career Development Center
Services provided by the Career Development Center include resume reviews, career coaching, job and internship search assistance, and other tools for you to achieve life and professional success.
More to Explore at App State
Fund Your Education
Numerous scholarship and financial aid opportunities are available to help fund your App State education. Learn more about scholarships and financial aid.
International Experience
Work outside your cultural boundaries. Learn more.
Real-world Internships
Gain firsthand experience while earning your degree. Learn more
Find Your Community
Get inspired and get involved by joining App State clubs and organizations, such as the App State Politics Club. Learn more
Honors College
Develop high-level creative thinking and research skills. Learn more and check out the departmental honors program.
Apply
Are you ready to become a Mountaineer? Take the next step, apply for admission to App State and elevate your future success.
Admissions questions? Contact us.
Connect
Program Contact
Dr. Cathy Marcum
Department Chair
828-262-3075
[email protected]
Dr. Heather Ondercin
Political Science Curriculum Coordinator
828-262-6349
[email protected]
Visit Campus
Explore App State’s campuses in Boone and Hickory and learn more about what life is like as a Mountaineer.
Attend an information session to get to know App State’s people and programs.
Admissions Counselor
Have questions related to the App State admissions process? Our admissions counselors are here to help.