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About this course

This course introduces students to the study and practice of public administration. The curriculum aims to develop the required competencies for a successful career in the public sector by developing a holistic understanding of key concepts and legislations while looking at the transformation and enhancement of public service delivery.

Students will gain a theoretical understanding of key public administration concepts and the role of effective public administration in government.

Course summary
  • 7 Units

  • 3 months at 8 hours/week
  • Certificate included

Introduction to Public Administration

TYPE:

Short Course

MODE:

Fully Online

DURATION:

3 months

PACE:

8 h/week

Pay as little as R524* / monthly

Flexible payment options available

 
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What you will learn about

This course contains 7 units and can be completed in 3 months at the recommended pace of 8 hours per week:

  • Unit 1: Basic Concepts of Public Administration
  • Unit 2: The Government of South Africa
  • Unit 3: Public vs Private Administration
  • Unit 4: Principles of Public Administration
  • Unit 5: Role of Government Officials
  • Unit 6: Public Administration and Technology
  • Unit 7: Transforming Public Service Delivery

With our structured approach to learning, you can quickly gain valuable knowledge and skills. All courses include onboarding information, video lessons and multiple assessment opportunities.

Upon successful completion of this course you should be able to:

  1. Define public administration as a discipline and public administration as a field of practice;
  2. Relate public administration to other disciplines;
  3. Explain the structure and functions of the Government of South Africa;
  4. Differentiate between public and private sectors;
  5. Outline the principles of public administration;
  6. Point out the nature and scope of public administration;
  7. Discuss the roles of government officials (the elected and non-elected);
  8. Explain how technology plays a role in public administration, especially in the era of the fourth industrial revolution and the Covid-19 pandemic; and;
  9. Outline the values that govern the practice of public administration to build an ethical public service.

You can expect to gain theoretical understanding and practical skills in the following areas:

  • Three spheres of government
  • Legislation governing public administration
  • New Public Management
  • Administration principles

Is this course right for me?

Entry-level officials in national, provincial, and local spheres of government, Non-Profit organisations (NPOs), Community Based Organisations (CBOs), community leaders, members of communities, and any other individuals interested in understanding how government functions. As well as individuals from other disciplines who require basic knowledge of the functions of administration to perform effectively in a public administration environment.

There are many public administration courses in the market that vary in their approach to the topic. Some focus primarily on legislation and politics, while others explore leadership and governance.

The public administration course at iQ Academy encompasses all of the important aspects of public administration including legislation – but also presents an overview of government structure and how implementing the Batho Pele principles can lead to better service delivery. Focus is also placed on technology, which has become central to how the government functions.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be equipped to pursue a range of exciting careers such as:

  • National and Provincial Government Administrators and Managers
  • Public Health Professionals
  • South African Police Services
  • Correctional Service Officials
  • Municipal Administrators and Managers
  • Community Based Organisations
  • Community Leaders
 

When can you start this course?

Our Short Courses are administered in various intakes throughout the year. Enrol for a date that suits you or enquire now if you’d like more information.

 

Short Course Admissions

  • Minimum of Grade 9 (Standard 7)
  • At least 18 years of age
  • Alternate admission is possible on the basis of Mature Age exemption (23 years and older)
  • Ability to read and write in English, which is the language of instruction
  • Students should also possess a basic level of digital literacy skills

Our Short Course programmes are offered all year round, making enrolling easy and convenient anytime. Complete our online application form, and await a call from one of our friendly Enrolment Consultants.

At iQ Academy, we offer all our programmes exclusively through online learning. Students must have regular access to a device and a stable internet connection, whether via a mobile device or any other means.

Don’t worry about course materials, as they are all available online and can be downloaded to your smartphone, PC or tablet for offline use. We do not provide printed textbooks. If you prefer printed materials, you can easily download and print them yourself.

Our teaching and learning activities occur 100% online. If you require more information, please feel free to enquire now.

  • A PC, Tablet or Smartphone
  • Access to a reliable internet connection
  • An active email account
  • At least 1GB of data per month
 

Simple pricing, big value

Our course fees are all-inclusive, there are no hidden costs. Get access to feature-rich learning and exclusive student benefits.

Total course fee

R9,432
  • All inclusive

  • Choose how you pay: Upfront or in monthly instalments

Monthly instalments

Pay as little as R524* / monthly

  • Interest free payment plans

  • Receive your digital certificate when you have finished paying off your plan

*Terms and deposit are subject to affordability. View our payment options for more information.

Digital Short Course Certificate_iQ Academy

Boost your career with a short course certificate

Enhance your job prospects with a verified way to showcase your new skills and knowledge.
  • Easily downloadable

  • Industry aligned

Hear from our students

Sometimes when it comes to the value of education, it’s best to hear about it from your peers.
Xolelwa Thuputlela
Xolelwa Johanna Thuputlela
iQ Graduate
“Thanks iQ, for making it possible for everyone to study without feeling the financial pressure with your fee structures. The lectures are amazing. Looking forward to the future now…thank you!”
Zimkita Kilani_Consent WhatsApp_12-05-21
Zimkita Kilani
iQ Short Course Student
“I would like to thank iQ Academy for everything that you did for me. I got my certificate! Big up guys for what you do for everyone who wants to fulfill their goals.”
Vesnant Singo - iQ Academy Short Course Student - Testimonial_
Vesnant Singo
iQ Short Course Student
“It’s so much easier studying online, downloading all my study guides through my cell phone without a laptop. It’s a good experience for me. This is so easy to do!”
Isaac Mothami
Isaac Thabo Mothami
iQ Graduate
“Thank you for the lessons, experience, support, opportunity to study at an affordable price, and most of all for adding value to my life.”
 

Apply online today

Enquire now and an Enrolment Consultant will call you back to answer any questions you have and start your application.

  • Example: (082) 123-4567
  • By clicking "Submit", you explicitly consent to our processing of your personal information in accordance with our Privacy Policy, and consent to receiving communications from us.

This Short Course FAQ’s

This course focuses on the legislation that governs public administration, the role of public administration in the government structure as well as discussions around technology and ethics in public administration.

The target audience includes entry-level officials in national, provincial, and local spheres of government, Non-Profit organisations (NPOs), Community Based Organisations (CBOs), community leaders, members of communities, and any other individuals interested in understanding how government functions. As well as individuals from other disciplines who require basic knowledge of the functions of administration to perform effectively in a public administration environment.

Students will gain practical skills in 

  • The three spheres of government
  • Legislation governing public administration
  • New Public Management
  • Administration principles

The course creates a clear understanding with employees as to the structure of government, its role and its responsibility in society. The inclusion of topics on technology and ethics will aim to address the lack of technology innovation in all spheres of government as well as instil ethical behaviour in public servants.

Students learn about the structure of government and the role of public administration and administrators within that structure. The course introduces students to the concept of New Public Management to prepare students to service the needs of South Africa. The course touches on contemporary concepts in public administration namely the use of technology to improve service delivery and the role of ethical conduct.