Discover the complete NOUN Public Administration BSc course list and programme outline from 100 to 400 level, including admission requirements, degree structure, and career opportunities. Updated for the 2025 academic year at the National Open University of Nigeria.
The BSc Public Administration programme at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in public service, non-profit organisations, and private sector administrative functions. This Open and Distance Learning (ODL) course equips you with theoretical knowledge and practical skills in governance, policy analysis, public finance, and human resource management.
By combining core administrative concepts with real-world applications, NOUN’s Public Administration degree helps students understand the dynamics of government systems and public institutions while fostering critical thinking and decision-making skills.
In this post, you’ll find:
- The full course outline from 100–400 level
- Programme structure and credit requirements
- Admission requirements for UTME and Direct Entry
- Career paths for graduates
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Key Takeaways
| Old Outline | 2025 Updated Outline |
|---|---|
| Focused mainly on governance and administrative theory. | Now includes Public Policy, E-Governance, Conflict Resolution, and Strategic Management to meet modern public sector demands. |
| Graduation credit requirement was not clearly outlined for new students. | Minimum 140 units (UTME) and 110 units (Direct Entry) now clearly stated. |
| Limited ICT courses in previous curriculum. | Integrated ICT-based courses for improved administrative efficiency. |
NOUN BSc Public Administration Admission Requirements
1. O’Level Entry (UTME Applicants)
- Five (5) credit passes at SSCE/GCE/NECO/NABTEB in not more than two sittings.
- Subjects must include:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Government or History
- And two other relevant social science subjects (e.g., Economics, Civic Education).
2. Direct Entry Requirements
- Two A-Level passes in Government/History and one other Social Science subject.
- ND/NCE in related discipline with at least Lower Credit.
- HND holders may be admitted into higher levels depending on evaluation.
Programme Structure
The programme follows NOUN’s course credit system and includes:
- Compulsory Courses (C) – Must be passed to graduate.
- Elective Courses (E) – Optional, but contribute to required credit load.
- General Studies (GST) – Build communication, ICT, and citizenship skills.
Full Course Outline – NOUN Public Administration (100–400 Level)
100 Level – First Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Unit(s) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| GST101 | Use of English and Communication Skills I | 2 | C |
| GST105 | History and Philosophy of Science | 2 | C |
| GST107 | The Good Study Guide | 2 | C |
| POL111 | Elements of Political Science | 3 | C |
| PAD101 | Introduction to Public Administration I | 2 | C |
| ECO121 | Principles of Economics I | 2 | C |
| BUS105 | Introduction to Business I | 2 | C |
| Total Units | 15 |
100 Level – Second Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Unit(s) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| GST102 | Use of English and Communication Skills II | 2 | C |
| GST104 | Use of Library | 2 | C |
| GST108 | Logic, Philosophy, and Human Existence | 2 | C |
| POL112 | Nigerian Government and Politics I | 3 | C |
| PAD102 | Introduction to Public Administration II | 2 | C |
| ECO122 | Principles of Economics II | 2 | C |
| BUS106 | Introduction to Business II | 2 | C |
| Total Units | 15 |
200 Level – First Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Unit(s) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| GST201 | Nigerian Peoples and Culture | 2 | C |
| PAD201 | Theory of Administration | 2 | C |
| POL211 | Political Ideas | 3 | C |
| PAD203 | Public Personnel Administration | 3 | C |
| ENT201 | Principles of Entrepreneurship | 2 | C |
| PAD205 | Administrative Law | 2 | C |
| Total Units | 14 |
200 Level – Second Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Unit(s) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| GST202 | Fundamentals of Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution | 2 | C |
| PAD202 | Comparative Public Administration | 2 | C |
| PAD204 | Local Government Administration | 2 | C |
| POL212 | Nigerian Government and Politics II | 3 | C |
| PAD206 | Public Finance | 2 | C |
| Total Units | 11 |
300 Level – First Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Unit(s) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| PAD301 | Public Policy Analysis | 3 | C |
| PAD303 | Development Administration | 3 | C |
| PAD305 | Public Sector Economics | 2 | C |
| PAD307 | Research Methods in Public Administration | 3 | C |
| PAD309 | Administrative Leadership | 2 | C |
| Total Units | 13 |
300 Level – Second Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Unit(s) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| PAD302 | E-Governance | 3 | C |
| PAD304 | Strategic Management in Public Sector | 3 | C |
| PAD306 | Public Relations in Government | 2 | C |
| PAD308 | Project Monitoring and Evaluation | 2 | C |
| Total Units | 10 |
400 Level – First Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Unit(s) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| PAD401 | International Public Administration | 3 | C |
| PAD403 | Ethics in Public Service | 2 | C |
| PAD405 | Advanced Public Policy | 2 | C |
| PAD407 | Contemporary Issues in Public Administration | 2 | C |
| Total Units | 9 |
400 Level – Second Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Unit(s) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| PAD402 | Global Governance | 3 | C |
| PAD404 | Public Sector Reforms | 2 | C |
| PAD499 | Research Project | 6 | C |
| Total Units | 11 |
Degree Requirements
- UTME Entry: Minimum 140 credit units (8 semesters).
- Direct Entry: Minimum 110 credit units (6 semesters).
- All compulsory courses must be passed.
Career Opportunities for Graduates
With a BSc in Public Administration from NOUN, you can work in:
- Civil Service Administration
- Policy and Planning Departments
- Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)
- Public Relations in Government Agencies
- International Development Organisations
- Academia and Research
Conclusion
The NOUN BSc Public Administration programme is an excellent choice for students passionate about governance, policy-making, and public service. The course outline for 2025 ensures you gain both theoretical insight and practical skills to succeed in administrative roles across various sectors.
FAQs About NOUN Public Administration Courses
Q1: Can I work while studying Public Administration at NOUN?
A: Yes. The programme is flexible and designed for working students.
Q2: Is there a research project requirement?
A: Yes, a final-year project (PAD499) is compulsory.
Q3: Are there GST courses in this programme?
A: Yes, GST courses are mandatory for all NOUN students.
Q4: How many levels are in the programme?
A: Four levels (100–400) for UTME; three levels (200–400) for Direct Entry.
Q5: Where can I find the courseware?
A: Visit the NOUN Student Portal to download official course materials.
📣 Share if helpful—spread the word below!