The course aims to introduce students to the main concepts and theories of public management in a comparative and historical context, concentrating on the development of modern public administration in the developed democracies, particularly (but not exclusively) those of the English-speaking world. Topics covered include models of administration, bureaucracy and public management, privatising the state, governance and networks, institutions of accountability, public sector reform, public sector performance, community engagement and e-government. 

Demonstrated ability to analyse and evaluate aspects of public management and administration in a comparative context;

demonstrated ability to participate constructively in class discussion of issues relating to public management;

demonstrated ability to develop a detailed proposal for reform of a particular public institution or process.

Three brief written assignments on set readings (50%)  and a final essay on a report proposal (50%)

A two-hour class will be held weekly for 13  weeks.

Students are expected to have had several years experience working in some part of the sector. Overseas travel or work experience would be an advantage

Pre/Corequisites:

Students may attend any of the 10 lectures being offered in POGO 8062, being taught in parallel with this course  

POGO 8055 Case Studies in Public Sector Management

POGO 8082 Political Institutions and Policy Process

A ‘brick’ of prescribed  readings will be available for purchase.

G. B. Peters and J. Pierre (eds), The Handbook of Public Administration (Sage 2003); O. Hughes, Public Management and Administration  Third edition (Palgrave Macmillan 2003)

Reading lists will be provided for each topic in the course outline

Ability to access Wattle from off campus, to upload documents in word 2003, and to participate in an online discussion group. Some help with technology will be provided by the course tutor.

Delivery Mode:

On Campus.