International and Comparative Public Administration Education

This book explores the issue of international and comparative public administration and its role in the (Master of Public Administration) MPA program. The contents provide guidance for readers on how to effectively incorporate the perspectives into the classroom.

Public administration is becoming an increasingly global field. Not only are scholars working across borders, but public service organizations that MPA graduates are extended to leave are increasingly required to work across multiple countries and cultures. A growing demographic within all MPA programs in the United States is that of international student, many of whom intend to return to their countries and become public servants after graduation. Historically, however, MPA programs have taken a national perspective to their curriculum, predominately focusing on administration within their own country. The national perspective has led to challenges for students as they begin their careers, particularly for students interested in working for the federal government, international nonprofits, and governments outside of the home countries. An international perspective increases cultural competency in our organizations and overall appreciation of diversity.

This edited volume will be of great interest to upper-level students, academics, and researchers in public administration, public policy and education. The chapters in this book were originally published in Journal of Public Affairs Education.