University of Southern California

Certificate in Public Management

This program provides students with a solid foundation of training and skills in management. Individuals who need training in public administration but who are unable to enroll for the Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) degree may find this certificate program of particular interest. Key to the program’s success is the close integration of the academic curriculum and the application of skills and theory to managerial work assignments. Students may enroll at any time throughout the year.

» Required Courses
» Application Materials
» Application Deadlines

Required Courses
Students are required to complete the following courses:

  • Public Administration and Society (PPD 540)
  • Policy and Program Evaluation (PPD 542)
  • Human Behavior in Public Organizations (PPD 545)
  • One four-unit elective (500-level offering in the PPD curriculum)

Application Materials
The following items are required in order to complete the applications process:

  • a completed USC Graduate Application (may be completed on-line)
  • $85 application fee
  • official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
  • a current resume
  • a minimum of three letters of recommendation, including at least one academic reference
  • a written statement of approximately 1,500 words addressing the following questions:
    • Why are you interested in pursuing the Certificate in Public Management?
    • How will a Certificate of Public Management affect or enhance your career aspirations and goals?
International students must also submit the following documents:
  • official TOEFL scores
  • official transcripts indicating the award of all degrees with the title and date conferred in the applicant’s native language and an exact translation into English of each document
  • a financial guarantee statement showing proof of the ability to pay all tuition and living expenses

Application Deadlines
February 1: Fall Admission
April 1: Summer Admission
November 1: Spring Admission

Applicants are encouraged to submit their application in a complete package. To do so, they should request that transcripts and letters of recommendation be returned to them in sealed envelopes, and should submit them along with the rest of their materials.