Essential Information
Public administration certificate programs are typically offered through continuing education departments at colleges or universities; however, such certificate programs are also offered at the master's degree level. Certificate programs teach students the fundamentals of public policies, business operation and basic financial and management concepts. With a certificate in public administration, students can seek management jobs with government agencies, nonprofit organizations and community health and safety businesses.
Certificate in Public Administration
Public administration certificate programs offered through continuing education departments typically require students to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Graduate certificate programs may require applicants to hold bachelor's degrees, submit GRE scores, provide letters of recommendation and write personal essays. A certificate program in public administration usually includes 5-10 courses. Most programs include general business, communication and social service courses. Common courses include the following:
- Public administrative budgeting
- Management and decision making
- Public, social and economic policies
- Public health administration
- Administrative ethics and legal studies
- Human resources management
Popular Career Options
With a certificate in public administration, graduates are qualified for administrative positions with government agencies and nonprofit businesses. Public administrators perform various administrative, managerial and financial tasks by working with other public service professionals, analyzing public administration policies and determining program objectives through financial management. Common job titles include the following:
- Public administrator
- Public health manager
- Administrative assistant
- Social program manager
- Public relations supervisor
Continuing Education Information
To pursue advanced supervisory positions within public administration, one can obtain a bachelor's or master's degree in public administration or public health. Through advanced public administration degree programs, students gain a greater understanding of public and social services. Graduate-level degrees in public administration allow professionals to seek postsecondary teaching positions with colleges and public administration organizations.
There are many options available in the public administration field of study. Certificate programs are available at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, and will aid recipients in pursuing positions in careers such as public health management, administrative assistance, and public relations.
