Certificates

Earn a graduate certificate from the O'Neill School

Our 15 or 18 credit hour graduate certificates enhance your undergraduate studies and life experiences with an in-depth exploration of a certain area. Certificates are a great way to acquire a graduate-level credential without committing to a full graduate degree program. Students also choose certificates when they find themselves in a job that requires knowledge of an area they haven’t previously studied.

MPA students can enhance their degree by earning a certificate in an area of study that is different from their concentration.

Graduate certificate programs

Analytics in public affairs

This certificate prepares graduates for jobs that are centered on data and data analysis. Built for professionals working in government, nonprofit, or business, the certificate provides a solid foundation in quantitative data analysis.

Crime analysis

Students earning this certificate can expect to be competitive for jobs in government agencies and other organizations that work strategically to prevent crime and problems related to crime.

Environmental policy and sustainability

Learn to think globally and locally in this program that focuses on the interactions of policy and the environment. Graduates will be prepared to put theory into practice as they train to become the next generation of environmental policy leaders.

Homeland security and emergency management

This certificate is for both pre-career students and current professionals in the homeland security or emergency management field, especially those changing from professional or technical roles to managerial roles.

Innovation and social change

Gain the skills and knowledge necessary to fulfill your passion in today’s flexible and ever-changing economy. The certificate prepares students to develop and lead socially entrepreneurial ventures and initiatives in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.

Nonprofit management

Understand how to work in and with nonprofit organizations, without pursuing a degree in nonprofit management. This certificate complements other courses of study or career experience in areas such as social work, library science, and parks and recreation.

Policy analysis

Students in this certificate program will become well-versed in the nature of the policy process from the design to the evaluation stages and use that knowledge to produce solid analysis and apply it effectively.

Public finance

This course is designed for working professionals who want to advance their careers in financial management and public finance. Students will be equipped with the financial analysis skills needed to manage organizational budgets and support public policy.

Public management

Courses in management, finance, budgeting, and human resources in the public sector are flexible for both graduate students and career employees. Professionals who are changing from professional or technical roles to managerial roles will find this certificate program beneficial.

Urban and regional governance

Dramatic growth in urban areas during the 21st century will require critical thinkers. This course will give students the specific skill sets needed to address the complex issues of planning and management of these areas.