Apply to this program through a central application. Review the sections below before you begin.
Admission and Program Requirements
Certificate in Public Policy
James Kaatz
Strong Hall 326, 417-836-6424
JamesKaatz@MissouriState.edu
Website: PoliticalScience.missouristate.edu/MPA
Program description
The certificate in public policy provides a 12 hour graduate-level experience for people working or desiring to work in the field of public policy. This program provides a grounding in the theory and application of public policy along with the opportunity to explore other policy areas that may suite their interests and career path.
The curriculum is structured around key policy and analysis involving public policy. Each course prepares students to master core issues, principles, and problem-solving approaches that can be applied to specific challenges confronting their jurisdictions or sponsoring organizations.
Admission criteria
Admission to the certificate program requires a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education, a 3.00 overall grade point average, and three letters of recommendation. Admission is open to qualified persons without regard to age, physical disability, national origin, race, religion, or gender.
Selection is made based on prior academic performance, professional accomplishments, and other indicators of the ability to successfully pursue graduate education and a professional career in public management.
Students who do not meet the normal admission requirements, but who show an indication of high promise, will be considered for probationary admission. The Director of the MPA program will define probationary conditions and convey those to the student.
Students enrolling in this certificate as a part of the MPA program must also apply for the certificate in addition to the MPA.
Required courses - 12 hours total
Required courses - 9 hours
| Course(s) | Area of Study | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| PLS 673 | Policy Analysis | 3 hrs |
| PLS 762 | Public Policy and Program Evaluation | 3 hrs |
| PLS 763 | The Policy Process | 3 hrs |
Elective courses - 3 hours
Choose 3 hours from the following courses.
| Course(s) | Area of Study | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| PLS 685 | Public Policy for the Global Environment | 3 hrs |
| PLS 754 | Seminar in Health Policy | 3 hrs |
| ECO 615 | Public Sector Economics | 3 hrs |