About the course
MA Public Administration is a postgraduate course that focuses on the principles, theories, and practices of governance and public management. It explores topics such as public policy, administrative law, human resource management, and organizational behavior. Students gain insights into the functioning of governments, NGOs, and public enterprises, learning how to address societal challenges effectively. The program emphasizes leadership, decision-making, and analytical skills, preparing graduates to manage public resources and implement policies. This course bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical governance.
Graduates of MA Public Administration can pursue careers in civil services, policy analysis, public relations, and administrative roles in government and private organizations. The degree also provides a strong foundation for those interested in research or academia. With an emphasis on public welfare and good governance, it equips students to contribute meaningfully to society. This program is ideal for individuals passionate about leadership and making a positive impact through public service. It fosters a deep understanding of the complexities of public administration in a globalized world
Eligibility
- Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
- A minimum aggregate score of 50%-60% in the qualifying examination (varies by institution).
- Entrance exams like DUET, JNUEE, or others may be required for admission.
Why to study MA in Public Administration
- Develops a deep understanding of governance, public policy, and administration.
- Prepares students for leadership roles in the public and non-profit sectors.
- Enhances analytical and managerial skills relevant to societal development.
- Opens career opportunities in civil services, policy research, and public planning.
- Contributes to effective governance and public resource management.
- Fosters critical thinking and ethical decision-making for addressing public issues.
Scope of MA in Public Administration
- Careers in civil services, public policy, and urban planning.
- Roles in government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations.
- Opportunities in policy analysis, research, and advisory roles.
- Positions in academic institutions and think tanks.
- Entrepreneurial ventures in public consultancy and advocacy.
- Opportunities in legislative assistance and governance reforms.
Top 10 colleges in India
| RANK | NAME OF THE COLLEGE | AVG PACKAGE | NO OF SEATS |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Delhi | ₹8 LPA | 50 |
| 2 | University of Delhi, Delhi | ₹6.5 LPA | 70 |
| 3 | Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai | ₹7 LPA | 60 |
| 4 | Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi | ₹6.8 LPA | 50 |
| 5 | University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad | ₹7 LPA | 40 |
| 6 | Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), Aligarh | ₹5.5 LPA | 50 |
| 7 | Osmania University, Hyderabad | ₹5.5 LPA | 30 |
| 8 | Presidency University, Kolkata | ₹6 LPA | 35 |
| 9 | University of Mumbai, Mumbai | ₹5.8 LPA | 40 |
| 10 | Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal | ₹5 LPA | 35 |
Syllabus of the course
YEAR 1
| SEM 1 | SEM 2 |
|---|---|
| Introduction to Public Administration | Public Policy and Governance |
| Administrative Theory | Comparative Public Administration |
| Indian Administration | Development Administration |
| Research Methods | Statistics for Public Administration |
| Elective I | Elective II |
YEAR 2
| SEM 3 | SEM 4 |
|---|---|
| Urban Governance | Rural Development and Administration |
| Public Financial Administration | Dissertation/Project |
| Human Resource Management | Ethics in Public Administration |
| Elective III | Elective IV |
ELECTIVE PAPERS
- Environmental Administration
- Administrative Law
- Policy Analysis
- International Relations
- Public Sector Management
Fees Structure
| TYPE OF QUOTA | AVERAGE FEES PER YEAR |
|---|---|
| Government Quota | ₹15,000 to ₹1,20,000 |
| Management Quota | ₹1,00,000 to ₹2,50,000 |
Job Roles
- Policy Analyst: Evaluates and develops public policies.
- Urban Planner: Designs and plans urban infrastructure.
- Public Administrator: Manages government operations and programs.
- Human Resource Specialist: Handles HR functions in public organizations.
- NGO Manager: Leads non-governmental organization projects.
- Researcher: Studies and provides insights on governance and policies.
- Legislative Assistant: Assists in legislative drafting and analysis.
Education after MA in Public Administration
- MPhil in Public Administration: Prepares for advanced research and academic careers.
- PhD in Public Administration: Enables specialization in governance and public policy.
- Diploma in Urban Planning or Policy Analysis: Adds practical expertise to career prospects.
- Specialized Certifications: Focused on areas like Public Finance or Governance Ethics.
- Short courses in International Relations or Administrative Law: Broadens career opportunities.
Salary for MA in Public Administration Graduates
| Designations | Average Annual Salary (INR) |
|---|---|
| Policy Analyst | ₹6-10 LPA |
| Urban Planner | ₹5-8 LPA |
| Public Administrator | ₹5-9 LPA |
| NGO Manager | ₹4-7 LPA |
| Human Resource Specialist | ₹5-8 LPA |
| Legislative Assistant | ₹4.5-7 LPA |





















