Public Administration and Policy Online

  • Graduate Certificate
  • Strome College of Business
  • School of Public Service

Upgrade your skills in policy analysis and public management. With ODU's graduate certificate in public administration and policy, you'll develop analytical and management expertise. 

The core three courses in this certificate cover administrative theory, ethics, public policy and evaluation.

You'll choose an elective for the fourth course. Choose from topics such as:

  • leadership,
  • collaboration,
  • public-private partnerships,
  • human services administration,
  • negotiation and dispute resolution,
  • and financial management.
Indicates a required field


















    • 12 credits (four courses)
    • Three courses are required; one is an elective
  • Access course materials online from any location. Many classes don't have a scheduled meeting time, so you can fit class into your personal schedule. The instructor may schedule assignments and exams at specific times. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

  • Many of our students come from or find new positions in:

    • Local government
    • Federal civilian employment
    • State government
    • Non-profits
    • Private sector consulting or research
  • In-state Virginia Residents
    $599 per credit hour*
    Out-of-state Students
    $623 per credit hour

    Rates are effective Fall 2023 and subject to change.
    * In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

You'll have a dedicated academic advisor for this program.

Contact us if you have questions about admission requirements, transferring credits, or application deadlines.

  • You must be accepted into ODU as a non-degree or degree-seeking graduate student. This certificate program is not available to degree-seeking MPA students.