Strategic Planning

The Opportunity

In a rapidly evolving landscape, we are continuing to adapt and lead in the field of public administration, preparing our students to address contemporary challenges with innovative solutions and a deep understanding of public service values. Our strategic plan modernizes curriculum, advance learning in technology, and aligns educational outcomes to meet the dynamic needs of the public sector.

We aim to enrich the Public Administration Department at Portland State University with modern, flexible educational offerings tailored for the 21st-century student. These changes prioritize adaptable learning paths, interactive and technology-enhanced teaching methods, and curriculum relevance to current and future public administration challenges, ensuring students are well-prepared and engaged in their educational journey.

Strategic Priorities

Core Curriculum: Assess and update the core curriculum to ensure its relevance and energize effectiveness.

Learning Experience: Evaluate teaching modalities to expand learning options for students.

Doctoral Program: Evaluate and revise the doctoral program.

Undergrad Program: Strategically expand our core suite of undergraduate offerings.

Engaging Alumni: Expand our robust and interactive alumni engagement programs.

Program Growth: Expand and innovate outreach and recruitment efforts to attract and engage prospective students.

2024-2027 Goals

Elevate Academic Excellence: Modernize curriculum to adapt to evolving community needs.

Empower Graduate Success: Ensure graduates achieve professional success

Expand Educational Access: Broaden reach through innovative learning options, targeting students beyond the Portland area.

Strengthen Alumni Connections: Grow a vibrant and engaged alumni network.

Increase Student Enrollment: Committed to increasing enrollment to support the community’s needs.

What will it take for us to be successful?

For the Public Administration Department at Portland State University to be successful in its student-centered program changes, it will require an innovative approach towards curriculum innovation, integration of cutting-edge technologies, and active engagement with both students and industry trends.


Success focuses on the department creating a learning environment that not only meets the current demands of the public sector but also anticipates future challenges, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared, adaptable, and capable of thriving in a rapidly changing world. This necessitates a collaborative approach, leveraging feedback from students, faculty, and industry stakeholders, to continuously refine and enhance the educational offerings.

How You Can Help

  • Share your experience
  • Contribute and Volunteer
  • Connect  us to people you know
  • Advocate for PA education
  • Follow us on LinkedIn
  • Engage current and prospective students
  • Host a student for their service learning

 

More Information

Kevin Kecskes, PhD 

Chair and Professor 

Department of Public Administration 

Contact: PAdeptchair@pdx.edu