General Information | Public Administration-MPA | Criminal Justice-MCJ | PhD | Certificates

Certificate Programs

Students who wish to sharpen their knowledge and skills without committing to the full M.P.A. or M.C.J. degree programs may earn a certificate in one of three areas by completing four designated courses. Students who complete a certificate and later enter the M.P.A. or M.C.J. program may count all credits toward the respective degree.

The Certificate in Public Management

This certificate, awarded to students interested in public sector management, focuses on the key areas of expertise required of public administrators. Required courses include the following:

PAD 5001 Governance and Institutions
PAD 5002 Organizational Management and Change
PAD 5220 Human Resources Management
PAD 5502 Public Sector Financial Management

The Certificate in Nonprofit Management

This certificate program provides present and potential nonprofit managers with the opportunity to improve their managerial skills as well as their knowledge of nonprofit administration. The following courses are required:

PAD 5001 Governance and Institutions
PAD 5110 Seminar in Nonprofit Management
PAD 5140 Nonprofit Financial Management
PAD 5220 Human Resources Management OR
PAD 5350 Program Evaluation

The Certificate in Criminal Justice

This certificate focuses on the development of managerial skills for law enforcement, corrections, and other professionals in the field of criminal justice. Required courses include:

CJ 5100 Administration of Criminal Justice
CJ 5120 Nature and Causes of Crime

Plus 2 of the following courses:
CJ 5000 Law and Social Control
CJ 5320 Seminar in Police Administration
CJ 5520 Seminar in Corrections
CJ 5551 Judicial Administration

Certificate Eligibility Requirements

Any person with a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution may apply to the certificate program by submitting to the Graduate School of Public Affairs official college transcripts from each institution attended and one letter of recommendation written by a supervisor or co-worker. Before enrolling for courses, students must submit an application for unclassified student status and pay the required $20 unclassified student application fee.  Nondegree student application forms are available in the Office of Admissions. Students who have been admitted to the M.P.A. or M.C.J. program may also earn a certificate by completing the course requirements listed above.