Graduate Certificate in Public Policy and Administration

Program Features

• Four courses, (2) required and (2) electives, for a total of 12 credits
• Online and hybrid options may be available for some courses
• Fall, spring, and summer start dates
• One year to completion

Students will be prepared to:

• Analyze the roles of government institutions, interest groups, social movements, experts, and media in the policy process 
• Formulate and evaluate public policy alternatives 
• Discuss, debate, and write about managerial, ethical, and political issues in public policy and public administration 
• Examine the relationship between public policy and social inequality 
• Demonstrate expertise in specific public policy areas 
• Locate and utilize public policy research resources 

This program is designed for professionals who work or aspire to work in public or non-profit sectors. It provides a solid foundation for those considering master’s degrees in the social sciences, and provides advanced credentials for professionals in education, criminal justice, healthcare and social work who would like to enhance their knowledge of public policy and public administration. 

Careers

Jobs in public policy and administration are diverse and found within many different government, policy research, and nonprofit organizations. Examples of the kinds of positions that public policy and administration professionals hold include: program analyst, program director, public service administrator, education administrator, health services manager, social services manager, public works director, nonprofit administrator, and development director.