The Bachelor of Public Administration programme is an undergraduate degree programme which focuses on the principles and practices of Public Administration and Management in the Public Sector.
The programme equips the student to function effectively and efficiently in public service organisations. It also examines local systems of government. This includes an understanding of the different types of local government and their constitutional relations with intermediate and central government. It also examines public policy issues and priorities.
The programme has the primary purpose of providing a well-rounded, broad education that equips students with the knowledge base and methodology principles that enable them to enter the labour market.
This programme is offered through online learning and digital support.
Articulation
A Bachelor’s Degree is the minimum entry requirement for admission onto a Postgraduate Diploma or a cognate Honours degree.
Curriculum
Semester 1
Introduction to Public Administration
Business Mathematics
Microeconomics Essentials
Elective – Choose one of the following electives
End User Computing
Digital Transformation in the Business Environment
Semester 2
Comparative Systems of Public Administration
Business Communication
Financial Reporting and Analysis
Macroeconomics Essentials
Semester 1
Public Management Environment
Municipal Structures and Administration
Administrative Law
Public Sector Economics
Semester 2
Management in the Public Sector
Contemporary Issues in Local Government
Contemporary South African Politics
Ethics in the Public Sector
Semester 1
Public Sector Reform
Research in the Public Sector
Sustainable Local Governance
Policy and Public Sector Delivery
Semester 2:
Evolution of Public Administration
Improving Public Administration
Global Perspectives to Local Government Development
Public Sector Budgeting
Careers
Embark on a trajectory leading to positions such as:
Public Manager
Immigration Administrator
Local Government Manager
Admission Requirements
The minimum entry requirement is the National Senior Certificate or National Certificate Vocational with appropriate subject combinations and levels of achievement; or
An equivalent NQF level 4 qualification with proven proficiency in English.
A Higher Certificate; an Advanced Certificate or Diploma
Applicants that did not achieve a Bachelors pass in Matric and are over the age of 23 years will be considered via mature age exemption
To be considered via RPL, applicants should be above the age of 23 years.
For further information on this alternative route, please contact a student advisor.
All applicants with an international qualification will be considered in accordance with MANCOSA‘s institutional rules.
FAQs
School leavers who wish to pursue a career in the public sector
Public service employees who wish to upgrade their skills.
The role of a Public Administrator will depend on the type of organisation they work for, like a non-profit, government sector or private enterprise. However, the common factor that all public administrators do have in common is that they handle overall supervisory and regulatory functions within their respective departments, often reaching out to other departments in order to streamline their operations. This may extend to negotiating, assessing, reviewing, reporting and implementing items related to certain projects or contracts.
Public administration offers a rewarding and stable career path with opportunities to make a meaningful impact on society. Professionals in this field play crucial roles in shaping policies, managing public resources, and improving community services.
A career in public administration provides:
Job Stability: Government and non-profit sectors often offer long-term employment opportunities.
Diverse Roles: From policy analysis to programme management, there are various specialisations to suit different interests.
Leadership Opportunities: You can progress into influential positions that shape public policy and service delivery.
Personal Fulfillment: Working in public administration allows you to contribute to the public good and community development.
Overall, it’s a great choice for those passionate about governance, social justice, and organisational leadership.
MANCOSA’s Bachelor of Public Administration stands out for its practical, career-focused approach combined with flexible online learning tailored for working professionals. The programme integrates current public sector challenges with real-world applications, preparing students to lead effectively in government and non-profit organisations.
Key differentiators include:
Expert Faculty: Experienced academics and industry professionals provide insightful, up-to-date knowledge.
Flexible Study Options: Fully online delivery allows students to balance work, life, and education.
Career-Ready Skills: Emphasis on leadership, policy development, and public financial management equips graduates for impactful roles.
This combination makes MANCOSA a preferred choice for future public sector leaders.
Public administrators in South Africa play a vital role in ensuring the effective delivery of government services and the implementation of policies. Their responsibilities often include managing public resources, coordinating programmes, and overseeing compliance with regulations.
Typical duties involve:
Developing and implementing policies that address community needs.
Managing budgets and public funds responsibly.
Coordinating between various government departments and stakeholders.
Ensuring transparency and accountability in public service delivery.
Leading teams to improve efficiency and service quality.
These tasks are essential for promoting good governance and driving social and economic development across the country.
Dive into the stories of MANCOSA's finest – our graduates, sharp analytical thinkers and strategic visionaries making waves in industries at home and on the world stage.
Dr Prashina Mohangi
Mohamed Althaaf Ebrahim
Ayanda Dlamini
Marga Claassen
Thabang Patrick Malusi
Givon Christian
Start your journey & enquire about this programme now.
