Fundamentals of Public Budgeting

This foundational course in the MPA fixed curriculum introduces the essential concepts and foundational theories related to public budgeting. This course also addresses two core competencies needed in budgeting: analytical thinking and understanding the concepts of democracy and equity in access to public services. Students are introduced to research methodologies that facilitate understanding the rational thinking processes used in public budgeting, for example, how budget cutters think (legislators) versus how program directors (spenders) think. Students will draft mock budgets in most frequently used formats. Proficiency in these competencies is beneficial for all levels of government.