By The Keystone Newspaper Hale explains the newly introduced 4+1 Masters of Public Administration Program
By Logan Wolf
Professor George Hale, a prominent figure in the political science and public administration department at KU, shared insights about his background and the newly introduced 4+1 Masters of Public Administration Program.
Photo Credit: Employee Directory
Hale commutes just over two hours from Maryland every Tuesday and Thursday to teach at KU. Originally from Delaware, he brings an impressive 30 years of government experience and is going on 16 years as an educator at KU. Growing up in a political household, he was influenced by his father, an elected official who served 20 years in the Delaware state legislature and spent the last 12 years as chair of the state senate.
Beginning his academic career at the University of Delaware, Hale soon sought broader experience in government.
“After two or three years, I felt my perspective was limited, so I took a year off to work for the Environmental Protection Agency,” he said. This decision was pivotal, providing him with invaluable insight while working with various governmental entities, including time under then Governor Pete du Pont.
Throughout his career, Hale has worked with elected officials from both major political parties. His extensive experience has shaped his views on the current political landscape, which he describes as increasingly polarized.
“There’s a worrying trend of politicians not focusing on the needs of the people,” he said.
As a professor, Hale reflected fondly on his time in academia. “I’ve been here at Kutztown for 16 years, and I love getting paid for my hobby,” he said, emphasizing his passion for teaching.
The new 4+1 Masters of Public Administration Program represents an exciting development for KU students. Traditionally, the graduate program accepted 15 to 20 students each year, with about 60 percent coming from other institutions. The new program aims to enhance the graduate experience, allowing students to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in just five years.
Under the program, seniors can take twelve graduate credits during their final undergraduate year, which will count toward their bachelor’s degree. Following that, students will complete an additional 24 graduate credits, including a recommended six credits through internships, providing practical experience alongside academic learning.
Students interested in this opportunity should apply during their junior year. Hale encourages political science majors to attend an upcoming information session on November 19th, 2024 in Room 138 of Old Main to learn more about the program and its benefits.
As Hale continues to inspire the next generation of public administrators, the new 4+1 program offers a pathway for students eager to engage in government and nonprofit work, preparing them for the challenges and rewards of a career in public service.