Upgrade your skills in the areas of policy analysis and public management, by developing analytical and management knowledge and capabilities. The core three courses in this certificate cover administrative theory, ethics, public policy and evaluation. You'll choose an elective for the fourth course, from topics such as leadership, collaboration, public-private partnerships, human services administration, negotiation and dispute resolution, and financial management.
Program Highlights
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Take classes on campus or online
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Courses may transfer into the Master of Public Administration Program
Careers
Check out these ideas from ODU's Center for Career & Leadership Development and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Compliance Managers
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities of an organization to ensure compliance with ethical or regulatory standards.
Public Relations and Fundraising Managers
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities designed to create or maintain a favorable public image or raise issue awareness for their organization or client; or if engaged in fundraising, plan, direct, or coordinate activities to solicit and maintain funds for special projects or nonprofit organizations.
Public Relations Specialists
Engage in promoting or creating an intended public image for individuals, groups, or organizations. May write or select material for release to various communications media.
Requirements
Certificate applicants enroll as Non-Degree Graduate Students thru the Office of Graduate Admissions. Please visit the Office of Graduate Admissions website. Please note that this certificate program is not applicable to degree-seeking MPA students.
Featured Courses
Introduction to the profession of public administration; the evolution and development of the field, the role of organizations in contemporary American government, and the roles of politics and administration. The course also provides an introduction to the necessary skills for successful graduate study.
Exploration of key theories and approaches to public policy. This course covers all phases of the policy process, from formulation to evaluation, with particular focus upon the substance, political dynamics, and evolution of public policy.
This course reviews the theory and application of ethics in the public sector, identifying public values and how they apply in the administration of government. It reviews sources of values employed in public sector decision-making, and reviews how values in public administration are managed and applied. Systems of professional ethics are reviewed in the context of public professions. Case studies and best practices are examined to help the student understand the application of administrative ethics in public management.
Cost of Attendance
We believe in providing students with transparent and accessible information about the cost of attendance.
Review the estimated tuition rates for the 2024-25 academic year (subject to change). Other fees are assessed for special services and certain academic programs. Non-resident rates are charged for anyone who is not a current Virginia resident, including international students.
Ways to Fund Your Degree
There are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending Old Dominion University, including scholarships, assistantships, and student loans. For more details about financial aid at Old Dominion, visit the Financial Aid Office page.