KU Edwards Campus Launches Undergraduate Public Administration Program

OVERLAND PARK, KAN. - The University of Kansas Edwards Campus recently announced it will launch a public administration program beginning in the fall of 2004. Classes in the undergraduate degree completion program, which is offered only at the KU Edwards Campus, will include two to three courses this fall semester, with plans to expand in 2005.

"This program provides professionals in public service an opportunity to receive an excellent education from a renowned university,” said Tom Longoria, director of undergraduate studies for the public administration program. "KU Edwards Campus is a rapidly growing institution and we want public administration to be part of that growth.”

The decision to establish the undergraduate program comes as the graduate program is being recognized as one of the best in the nation. U.S. News and World Report's rankings of America's best graduate schools ranked KU's city management program first, while the public affairs program tied for 10th overall. This degree-completion program allows KU Edwards Campus undergraduates the opportunity to earn a degree while balancing work and family obligations.

The strong reputation of the faculty is a great asset of the Edwards Campus and was a factor in creating the program. The professors teaching courses at this campus also teach at the University of Kansas' main campus in Lawrence, Kan.

"The influence our faculty carries throughout the academic community helped us get a high rating,” said Longoria. "We believe our reputation will attract a large group of talented public service professionals.”