This seminar is designed to address both the needs of students who are preparing for, or pursuing administrative careers in public agencies as well as those who are perusing the PhD in Urban and Public Administration. Initially we will examine the characteristics of the public arena in which "PB" takes place. Then we explore the legal, social and political rationale for PB and the nature of key revenue sources. This will be followed by a chronological review of the philosophies and techniques of dominant reform schools or approaches to budget design and execution. Finally, as time allows, we will engage in a brief overview of current productivity and performance measurement techniques. Presentation of a comparative analysis of the budgets of several local public agencies will constitute the final phase of the course. As time allows, exercises and guest speakers will also be employed to enhance learning. 

This course is designed both for students who anticipate or are now in positions in administration or planning where knowledge of the organization, processes and dynamics of economic development would be helpful.  Our prime focus will be on the rich laboratory of organizational approaches, techniques, issues and policies found at the local level in Texas.  However, attention will also be given to regional perspectives as well as effective approaches employed elsewhere in the US. 

The principal objective of this seminar is to introduce students to the study of comparative urban administration and politics through extensive reading, class presentations and discussions. This objective will also be pursued through preparation and presentation of a publishable paper on a comparative urban politics, administration, economics and/or a culture issue in "developed" to "underdeveloped" countries. Members of this seminar will be an opportunity to participate in an international conference to be organized by the School of Urban and Public Affairs.