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What does it cost?

Check out our cost calculator or visit student financial services for information on estimated costs.

How long will it take?

Most students complete the program in two semesters. The time limit for completing the certificate program is three years from the term of entry.

Where will I take classes?
Atlanta Campus, Online

This certificate can be completed 100% online.

Application Deadlines View Admissions Requirements

Students may enter the program Fall or Spring semester.

VIEW APPLICATION DEADLINES

Public Management and Leadership Graduate Certificate

The Graduate Certificate program in Public Management and Leadership provides basic preparation for students seeking a role as a leader at a government agency or a nonprofit organization.

Students who pursue a certificate in Public Management and Leadership benefit in several ways:

  • Enhanced Management and Leadership Skills: Specialized training in management and leadership principles specifically tailored for the public sector. The knowledge and skills necessary to lead teams effectively, manage resources, make strategic decisions, and navigate complex organizational challenges.
  • Competitive Advantage: Demonstration of professional development and commitment to contemporary methodologies. Employers value candidates with a strong foundation in leadership and management practices.
  • Career Advancement: Certification can serve as a catalyst for career advancement within the public sector. Students become better equipped to tackle complex challenges and drive organizational change.
  • Understanding of Public Sector Dynamics: Insights into the political, social, and economic contexts in which public organizations operate enabling students to navigate the intricacies of public policy, stakeholder engagement, budgeting, and public service delivery.
  • Professional Networking: Valuable connections, mentorship opportunities, and access to job openings. Building a strong professional network enhances career prospects and provides ongoing support for personal and professional growth.
  • Effective Public Service Delivery: Crucial skills for ensuring the effective delivery of public services. Students are equipped with the knowledge and tools to improve organizational performance, implement innovative strategies, and enhance public services.

Program Details

Applicants to the certificate program must complete the following admissions requirements.

  1. Online Application. Online applications must be submitted by the deadline. Paper applications are not available.
  2. Application Fee:  A nonrefundable fee of $50 paid by credit card is required for each application.
  3. Goal Statement: The goal statement is your means of presenting yourself to the Graduate Admissions Committee. You should submit a short, typed statement of personal and professional goals as they relate to the certificate or degree program you are seeking. Most applicants write about two typed pages, summarizing their work experience, the reasons they have chosen the program, why they want to attend Georgia State, and how the degree fits in with their career goals.
  4. Official GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores (Optional): The GRE of the Educational Testing Service is optional. However, the GRE is strongly recommended for any applicant whose undergraduate grade-point-average (UGPA) is below 3.0. If submitting GRE scores, official scores must be reported to institution code 5251 and received by GA State by the application deadline. More information can be found at our Admissions FAQ page or, to schedule the test, at www.gre.org.
  5. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing Systems) Academic scores (International applicants only): International applicants are required to submit official TOEFL or IELTS academic scores.
  6. Transcripts from each Post-secondary College/University Attended. Review requirements for submitting transcripts on our website.

Use the HOW TO APPLY button on this page to get started on your application.

The curriculum consists of the following:

  • 12 credit hours
  • 2 required courses
  • 2 elective courses

For more detailed curriculum information, visit the catalog.

Learning from faculty experts, students develop a leadership toolkit to lead an increasingly diverse public workforce in addressing the complex challenges that our society faces.

Contacts

General Questions
Public Management and Policy
[email protected]
404-413-0107

Certificate Questions
K. Jurée Capers
Director of Master’s Programs
[email protected]
404-413-0118

Department of Public Management and Policy
55 Park Place
Atlanta, GA 30303

Andrew Young School Logo55 Park Place NE
Atlanta, GA 30303