MPA Master of Public Administration 2

Question 1

Which budgeting approach requires agencies to justify every expenditure from zero each budget cycle rather than using prior-year baselines?

Accepted Answer

Zero-based budgeting

Answer

Zero-based budgeting starts from a 'zero base' each cycle, requiring full justification of all expenditures rather than accepting prior-year allocations.

Question 2

The 'iron triangle' in U.S. federal policymaking describes the stable relationship among which three actors?

Accepted Answer

Interest groups, congressional committees, and executive agencies

Answer

The iron triangle refers to the mutually reinforcing relationships among interest groups, relevant congressional subcommittees, and executive branch agencies.

Question 3

Under the U.S. Administrative Procedure Act (APA), 'notice-and-comment' rulemaking requires agencies to do which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Publish proposed rules and allow public comment before finalizing

Answer

The APA's informal rulemaking process (§553) requires agencies to publish a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and accept public comments before issuing a final rule.

Question 4

Equity in public administration most directly refers to which principle?

Accepted Answer

Ensuring fair and impartial treatment of all citizens

Answer

Equity requires that government services and burdens be distributed fairly, without discrimination based on race, income, or other characteristics.

Question 5

Which management theory emphasizes that organizational effectiveness depends on aligning structure with the external environment?

Accepted Answer

Contingency theory

Answer

Contingency theory holds that there is no single best way to organize; the optimal structure depends on environmental factors such as technology, market conditions, and uncertainty.

MPA - Master of Public Administration Practice Test

MPA - Master of Public Administration Practice Test

MPA Master of Public Administration 2