Public Policy Graduate Certificate

Analyze the actions of government

Further or start your career in public policy – the principles that shape society’s laws.

Spot issues, evaluate policy and come up with solutions.

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

Apply online

Apply to this program through a central application: GradCAS. Review the sections above before you begin.

Helping you succeed

Make a smart investment in your future. Access financial aid and friendly support.

Immersive academics

Get ready to meet your next mentor. You’ll be prepared, confident and ready for your career.