Abstract
Purpose: This study addressed (1) the diffusion of Associate Degree in Public Administration (ADPA) programs, (2) correlations relating leading demographic variables to contemporary ADPA programs, and (3) comparative availability of public administration sub-baccalaureate educational programs at community colleges compared to four-year colleges and universities. Theoretical Framework: The theoretical foundation of this study is Rogers' (2003) diffusion of innovation theory. The research model is informed by Geis' (1985) study of the diffusion of Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs. Methodology: Secondary data was utilized to perform analysis of the diffusion of ADPA programs from 1983 to 2013, to identify statistical correlations between contemporary ADPA programs and demographic variables, and a determination of how many sub-baccalaureate education programs for public administration are provided exclusively by community colleges. Findings: The study found that community colleges have provided most ADPA programs, that availability has increased slightly over time, and that newer programs have greater longevity. Furthermore, while the majority of currently available ADPA programs are not located near significant population centers, institutions are somewhat more likely to adopt ADPA programs when they are closer to such areas. Additionally, institutions are somewhat more likely to adopt ADPA programs when they are located nearer to state capitals, in areas that have a lower level of minority population, or in areas that have experienced significant changes in minority population. The study also showed that institutions in states with a higher population of public employees are much more likely to adopt ADPA programs, and that the majority of public administration sub-baccalaureate programs are at community colleges. Conclusion and Recommendations: Further studies are recommended to (1) identify correlations between significant public events such as the 9/11 terrorist attacks and the proliferation of public service educational programs, (2) quantify the true need for public administration undergraduate education, (3) identify how the proliferation of bachelor's degree programs at community colleges might affect the field, and (4) explore the suitability of the public administration accreditation processes, and (5) develop standardized guidelines for ADPA programs.