Program Overview

Public Administration and Policy

The Public Administration and Policy program at Binghamton University offers various academic programs, including the Master of Public Administration (MPA), Master of Public Policy (MPP), Sustainable Communities (MS), and Certificate Programs.

Certificate Programs

The program offers several certificate options, including:

• Local Government Management
• Non-Profit Administration
• Disaster Management
• Genocide and Mass Atrocity Prevention
• Watershed Studies and Management

Non-Profit Administration

The certificate in Nonprofit Administration provides students with an introduction to core aspects of management and leadership in the nonprofit sector. The course of study emphasizes:

• An introduction to essential aspects of nonprofit management
• An overview of current policy and management issues
• The development of analytical skills critical to effective work in the nonprofit sector
• Specialized coursework in several aspects of management

The certificate program is geared to two types of students:

• Individuals currently working in the nonprofit sector
• Students in master's degree programs

For Individuals Currently Working in the Nonprofit Sector

The certificate program provides an opportunity to develop a broader understanding of the nonprofit sector and management practices. The certificate program supplements the practical knowledge students have gained from work experience with an introduction to theory, empirical research, skills, and best practices.

For Individuals Currently Enrolled in Master's Degree Programs

The certificate in nonprofit management is appropriate for those who foresee using their master's degree to pursue a career in the nonprofit sector. The certificate program provides management and leadership training to complement the professional knowledge students acquire in their course of study for the master's degree.

Admission Requirements

To be admitted into the certificate program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
2. An undergraduate grade point average of 3.0

The application process requires students to submit the following materials:

1. The online graduate application
2. Transcripts from their undergraduate institution
3. A current résumé
4. A letter of recommendation from a professor or professional colleague
5. A 1-2 page personal statement that addresses why they are interested in the program

Suggested Course Sequence

To earn the Certificate in Nonprofit Administration, students must complete 15 credits. There are four core courses, and students must also satisfactorily complete an additional three credits from a list of available courses.

Portfolio Requirement

Students pursuing the Nonprofit or Local Government certificate must compile a portfolio that includes samples of work that represent knowledge and skills specific to their certificate. The portfolio is required for all students entering the program in fall 2014 and beyond.

Credits and Specializations

If students are interested in completing two specializations or certificates, a minimum of 51 total credits must be completed. If a student is interested in completing three specializations or certificates, a minimum of 60 total credits must be completed. Credits cannot be "double counted" for more than one specialization or certificate.