students walking on campus
What does it cost?
New Residency Neutral Tuition for this Online Program!
  • $450 tuition per credit hour (same for all students, regardless of geographic location)
  • $660 per semester online learning fee (if enrolled in 6 or more credit hours)

Learn more about the cost of an online graduate certificate, or use Georgia State’s Cost Calculator to get an idea of the investment required for your path of study. For information on how to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and to determine eligibility, visit the FAFSA tips page.

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.

This certificate can be completed 100% online.

Application Deadlines

Students may enter the program Fall or Spring semester.

VIEW APPLICATION DEADLINES

Online Public Management and Leadership Graduate Certificate

Talk to an enrollment coach
404-413-4393
[email protected]

Georgia State's Online Graduate Certificate 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 that answers the following:
    • What inspired you to pursue a degree and/or career in public service? Discuss any specific events, experiences (personal, academic, or professional), issue areas, or individuals that have influenced your decision.
    • How do you envision using a degree from the Andrew Young School to achieve your professional 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 START YOUR APPLICATION button on the right to get started.

The curriculum consists of the following:

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

For more detailed curriculum information, visit the catalog.

New Residency Neutral Tuition for this Online Program!

  • $450 tuition per credit hour (same for all students, regardless of geographic location)
  • $660 per semester online learning fee (if enrolled in 6 or more credit hours)

Affording Your Online Graduate Certificate
Georgia State is dedicated to providing affordable and accessible programs for all prospective students because we value the investment each student makes in their education. We understand that the path to a student’s future shouldn’t be blocked due to finances, and we pride ourselves on offering financial assistance and scholarships that can support students through their education.

Learn more about the cost of an online graduate certificate, or use Georgia State’s Cost Calculator to get an idea of the investment required for your path of study.

Contact Student Financial Services
We are here to help you understand the cost of your program, the payment schedule and financing opportunities.

Use the Student Financial Services Guided Paths to walk you through the Financial Aid Process and learn about all our options for financing your education.

Corporate Assistance
Consult your employer about the availability of tuition reimbursement or tuition assistance programs.

Military Assistance
Active duty military, veterans and military families should visit Veterans Educational Benefits to take full advantage of available financial assistance and educational benefits. Download our guide to How to Start Your VA Benefits.

University System of Georgia Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)
The purpose of TAP is to foster the professional growth and development of eligible employees. For more information, see TAP Tuition Assistance.

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
404-413-4393
[email protected]

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