Graduate Certificate in Public Administration and Leadership

Students learn fundamentals of management and leadership in public administration through major models of leadership from a theoretical, ethical, and practical perspective. Students gain an understanding of major leadership theories by examining the basis of each theory, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses, and learning how to apply the theory to practical situations in public administration and nonprofit settings. These activities enable students to reflect on how they perceive leadership from both a subordinate and leadership perspective. Students develop a thorough understanding of leadership concepts, and are able to apply them in their own leadership situations.

This certificate also explores the role of leadership in public organizations by examining how leadership is intrinsically tied to the organization. Students gain an understanding of how effective leaders articulate their leadership philosophy, how they embody the ideals and values of the organization, and how they motivate and reward their subordinates.  The course examines the role of leadership in crisis situations including how decisions are made and implemented, how information is communicated in critical situations, how political leaders are held accountable for crisis situations, and how communities can be returned to a state of normalcy after a critical incident has occurred.