Incorporating the ASPA Code of Ethics Across the M.P.A. Curriculum

Abstract

Despite the promulgation of codes of ethics and strict regulations, unethical conduct on the part of public administrators continues to occur. This article offers a three-step process for curriculum development that educators might adopt (or adapt) to incorporate the newly revised ASPA Code of Ethics into M.P.A. programs, the goal being for graduates to demonstrate competence with the Code's purpose, principles, and practices. Achieving this outcome will enable researchers to identify best practices, as well as to offer suggestions about how educators and professional organizations might better address the source(s) of ethical lapse or failure.

Keywords:

• assessment and evaluation
• ethical competence
• public administration curriculum development
• teaching ethics