The Department of Public Policy and Administration at CSU Bakersfield will foster and enhance critical thinking, communication, management, a public service perspective, and engagement in the policy process among present and future managers in government, nonprofit, and health care organizations within the San Joaquin Valley. The critical skills learned from this curriculum will ensure that managers in the government, nonprofit, and health care sectors exercise governance in an inclusive and socially responsible manner.<br><br>The purpose of the PPA programs is to prepare competent, ethical and effective public, nonprofit, and health care managers and leaders to advance the public service. Consistent with established university academic and professional standards, students must develop and demonstrate integrity in all activities to inspire public confidence and trust in public service. Students and applicants found by formal review of the department, to be lacking in academic integrity or in professional ethical standards of behavior may be denied admission, placed on probation, suspension or dismissed from the programs. Such departmental actions are, of course, subject to university review and appeal.