Public Budgeting focuses on the history of federal budgeting and general principles and policies related to budgeting in the public sector.  The emphasis is on the federal budget process, however, in each section, we were also able to learn and apply the process to state and local governments.  The course strongly emphasized ethics in the budget process and ways that the fiscal process can be at risk of corruption so we can be better stewards of public money.  

This course was specific to the core competency of contributing to the public fiscal process.  Having a general knowledge and the ability to research a budget to learn more about an organization is critical to understanding and strengthening whatever organization I am a part of.  Understanding the laws and the emphasis on ethical behaviors are crucial to good leadership and management.

Public Sector Budgeting relates to many of the other courses because finances are an integral part of any organization.  I should have taken this course early on in the program, but taking it at the end of my program, there were elements of public budgeting in every other course I took.  Ethics and Leadership courses were particularly relevant to public budgeting as the proper trainings and procedures must be in place so that organizations have a low risk of fiscal mismanagement.  

Understanding budgets and communicating how they work has been an important part of my career.  Prevention work typically uses grant funds and I have experience in the grant writing and grant managing processes. Managing public money safely and effectively is key to public trust and continuing to have access to resources needed to serve the public effectively.  This course enhanced my understanding of public finance and helped me gain a renewed understanding of how to apply ethical behavior to any financial situation.