WHY ECONOMICS The tools of economics apply to nonprofit
organizations and government agencies, as well as to profit-maximizing
firms. Careers in public administration involve producing public policy
rather than profit. Jobs in this field include administrative managers,
legislators, and chief executives. Administrative managers direct operations
of various government agencies. They manage secretarial services, oversee
data processing, direct materials, scheduling and distribution, and manage
personnel. Upper level public administrators set goals and make plans for
various agencies. Legislative jobs include holding public office as a U.S.
senator or representative, a state senator or representative, or a member
of a city council. Examples of chief executives include the president and
vice president, state governors, county commissioners, and city mayors.
These positions often require a master’s degree in public administration
(M.P.A.). Regardless of which one of the many career paths you choose in
public administration, an undergraduate major in economics will provide
you with analytical skills that are absolutely essential for producing
quality public policy.