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The graduate certificate in public administration is designed to provide public service professionals with practical “hands-on” experience and best practices in policy analysis, human resources, finance, and management skills. The certificate is appropriate for individuals who are currently working in, or seeking employment in the public or nonprofit sectors. Graduates will develop their public administration skill set and will prepare for positions of responsibility working within federal, state, and local government and nonprofit organizations.
Certificate students can apply for admission to the Master of Public Administration (MPA) upon completion of the certificate requirements. Up to 12 certificate credits can be applied towards the MPA degree. Certificate students must complete the certificate program with grades of “C” or above and a GPA of 3.0 or above in order to be admitted to the MPA program, and in order to have the certificate courses applied to the MPA degree.
Program Features
Courses are offered in the traditional on-campus format. The 12-credit certificate can be completed in six months to one year.
The certificate program is guided by the values of social justice, analytical rigor, ethical decision-making, and service to communities. Our focus is on public administration theory and practice, human resource management, the policy process, budget and financial management. The certificate prepares students to diagnose and analyze sector specific issues and offer prescriptions for change. Students will evaluate the financial condition of a public sector organization, analyze public policy problems, address workforce development issues, such as hiring processes and equity, and develop plans of action.
The faculty emphasize applying coursework to real-world problems, ethics, and promote justice through research, leadership, and service. They are experienced practitioners and scholars in the public administration field.
Admission Requirements
While applications are accepted all four quarters, admission is competitive. Applicants are evaluated on their individual merits rather than on a comparative basis.
See Graduate Admissions Programs for admission materials.