REGENT BUSINESS SCHOOL / Programmes / Bachelor of Public Administration

Bachelor of Public Administration

Designed to provide students with fundamental and progressive skills in management and administration so they can become well-developed public administrators.

3 years
SAQA - 97227
NQF Level 7
360 credits

Course Overview

Are you interested in pursuing a management position within the lucrative, highly-rewarding public sector? 

Does the idea of aiding the community and making a difference in small and large public corporations excite you? 

Our innovative Bachelor of Public Administration course gives students the ideal opportunity to acquire all the skills and knowledge they need to implement government policies so that public organisations can function efficiently, economically, and equitably. 

This course provides students with an all-encompassing, well-developed public administrator mindset needed to thrive within public business environments.

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Objectives

  • Teaches students how to work at all levels of government. 
  • Provides students with the ability to identify and solve public administration and management challenges of the 21st century.
  • Equips students with essential communication skills to communicate public management-related issues. 
  • Teaches students to view public businesses from a future-focused perspective so they can effectively manage executive-level operations.
  • Gives students the needed skills to consult with all stakeholders in the public sector environment. 
  • Enables students to display objectivity in the management of affairs. 
  • Trains students to promote and practice ethical standards in the work environment.
  • Gives students a comprehensive understanding of public administration and management of political, social, and economic environments. 
  • Provides students with the expertise they need to analyse policies and make effective government decisions.

Course details

The Bachelor of Public Administration is a three-year distance learning programme with a student-focused approach. It allows students with various needs and responsibilities to study even while being employed full-time.

After registration, students will receive a full study pack and have continuous access to their instructors by phone or email.

Applicants can choose between two course delivery options:

Option 1: Distance learning

This option is excellent for those who want to study independently. Modules for distance learning include workshops, independent reading, and case-study analysis. Distance learning also offers additional workshops over the course of two weekends each semester. This makes it possible for students to communicate and connect with their teachers and peers in actual settings.

(Workshops are hosted in areas with sufficient demand.)

Option 2: Rich-distance learning

The rich-distance learning option is ideal for students who value frequent interaction with professors and fellow students while also enjoying independent study. This option allows students to interact with teachers and other students in formal, online class interactions.

Rich-distance learning is an excellent choice for those who want to experience the “conventional” way of studying but at a significantly reduced cost.

Testimonials

Course structure and modules

Duration: 3 years

Year 1

Semester 1

  • Public administration 101
  • Local government 101
  • Microeconomics
  • Information and Communication Technology

Semester 2

  • Public administration 102
  • Local government 102
  • Macroeconomics
  • Public sector accounting 102

Year 2

Semester 1

  • Public administration 201
  • Local government 201
  • Ethics in the public sector
  • Public law

Semester 2

  • Public administration 202
  • Local government 202
  • Public sector supply chain management
  • Labour Law

Year 3

Semester 1

  • Public Administration 301
  • Local Government 301
  • Research in the Public Sector
  • Public sector budgeting
Semester 2
  • Public administration 302
  • Local Government 302
  • Disaster Management
  • Political Science

Careers

Upon successful completion of this course, students will have learned the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue the following careers: 

  • Accounting and Financial Specialist
  • Budget Analyst
  • Business Administrator
  • City Manager
  • Communications Specialist
  • Customs and Excise Officer
  • Environmental Health Officer
  • Executive Secretary
  • Fundraising Manager
  • Human Resource Administrator
  • Human Resource Manager
  • IT Manager
  • Knowledge Manager
  • Labour Relations Specialist
  • Legal Administrator
  • Operations Researcher
  • Policy Analyst
  • Political Advisor
  • Population Studies Analyst
  • Public Opinion Analyst
  • Public Relations Researcher
  • Public Relations Consultant
  • Regional Planner
  • Strategic Leader

Entry requirements

To enrol in the Bachelor of Public Administration, applicants must have one of the following: 

  • A national senior certificate with minimum Bachelor’s Degree admission
  • A relevant NQF Level 4 qualification OR equivalent (‘A’ or ‘O’ level certificates) 

Applicants who do not meet the requirements but have the necessary work experience can apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as an alternative admission to the course. These admissions are based on the applicant’s prior studies, work, management experience, and age. 

All submissions are subject to the approval of the RBS Selection Committee.

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