Overview

The Graduate Certificate in Local Government prepares students to understand the forces shaping public sector agendas at the municipal, county, and regional levels. This certificate equips students with the knowledge to manage government operations effectively and to influence policymaking, all while enhancing service delivery to communities. 

Program Details

Local governments play a critical role in delivering a range of public goods and services, including education, parks and recreation, housing, and emergency services. Local officials are also key collaborators in designing, implementing, and evaluating public policy to address local needs. 

As demand for public services continues to grow, the need for well-educated local government professionals is increasing. This certificate equips students with the skills to understand and manage the agendas of local governments and the organizations they work with, enhancing governance and policy-making effectiveness. 

Timeline

The certificate requires 12 credit hours and can be completed within one year. The program must be completed within seven years. 

Admissions

• Standard Admission: Students with a 3.0 GPA or higher from their bachelor’s program. 

• Conditional Admission: Students with lower GPAs may be considered for conditional admission upon approval by the program director. 

To apply for admission, please: 

• Complete a non-degree application. 

• Upload your current, chronological resume. 

• Upload an unofficial transcript from the higher education institution that awarded your bachelor's degree. 

• Pay the $50 application fee, which can be waived for CU Denver alumni, veterans and those on active military duty, and AmeriCorps volunteers. 

• Submit your application. 

Tuition and Fees

Investing in your future is a big decision. However, becoming a fully online student at CU Denver is a high-quality and affordable option for learners of all types. Visit our tuition and financial aid page for more information. Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify.  

Career Outlook

Graduates of this program are prepared for roles in municipal, county, and regional government management, public administration, policymaking, and community development. They will be equipped to engage in strategic planning, manage public resources, and address local social issues through collaboration and policy implementation. 

Certificate Courses

Students must complete 12 credit hours as part of this certificate program, with one required course and several electives. Look through the entire catalog of available courses here. Here’s a quick preview of some of the courses:

• PUAD 5503 – Public Budgeting and Finance (3 Credits) 
  This course covers key concepts for managing public sector finances, including budget development, resource prioritization, cost analysis, and financial condition evaluation. Students will learn to analyze fiscal data, utilize financial documentation, and apply performance management techniques, with a focus on forecasting and inflation adjustments.

• PUAD 5626 – Local Government Politics and Policy (3 Credits) 
  Explore the political dynamics of local governments, focusing on policy formulation, political structures, and decision-making processes. This course emphasizes the relationships between professional administrators and elected officials, examining how political forces influence policy outcomes at the local level. 

• PUAD 5460 – Political Advocacy (3 Credits) 
  This course addresses advocacy and lobbying within the public sector, emphasizing the processes and techniques used to influence policy at all government levels, with a focus on state and local advocacy. Students will gain practical insights into how advocacy impacts public policymaking and government decision-making.