Program Overview

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At a Glance

• Offered as: Certificate
• Format: 100% Online
• Credits: 12
• Avg. Time to Completion: 1 year
• College/School: College of Arts & Sciences
• Campus Location: Chester, PA

Program Overview

If you’re passionate about making a positive impact, Widener’s local government & community change certificate will prepare you for a successful career in the nonprofit sector, at a civic organization, or in city, county, or municipal government.

As you complete your certificate 100% online, you'll focus on critical topics including public policy, advocacy leadership, economic development, local government administration, and more, you’ll develop the expertise you need to effectively serve your community.

Program Information

• Part-time flexible schedule ideal for working adults
• Completed 100% online

View the academic catalog for information regarding the certificate program requirements.

Pathway to a Master's in Public Administration

Complete the certificate in local government & community change and then easily transition to the master's degree in public administration. All completed courses will be automatically applied toward earning your master’s degree.

Certificate courses are offered at a significantly reduced rate, enabling you to cut the cost of your education.

Outlook & Outcomes

Industry Growth

Overall employment of public relations and fundraising managers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor & Statistics

Avg. Salary

$ 75,810 per year (mean annual wage for a compliance officer)

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor & Statistics

Potential Careers

• City Manager
• Compliance Officer
• Fundraising Manager
• Nonprofit Administrator
• Policy Analyst

Why Pursue a Certificate at Widener?

Learn from Powerhouse Faculty

At Widener, classes are taught by leading experts with rich experience in local government and community-based change. When all is said and done, you’ll complete the program with a network of faculty mentors by your side.

Jumpstart Your Master's Degree

Earning a master’s degree will broaden your job prospects, enabling you to elevate your career and your impact. To help you start strong, all completed courses in the local government & community change certificate seamlessly roll into Widener’s master’s in public administration program.

Admissions

Admissions Requirements

• Applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university.
• 3.0 GPA
  • If not attained, evaluation of an applicant's ability to complete graduate work will be based on academic performance and a necessary 3.0 GPA within first six credit hours.

Application Deadlines

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Transfer to Widener

Widener transfer applicants follow the same application process as general applicants. After you apply, our admissions team will work with you to determine whether completed undergraduate and graduate coursework will count towards foundation/core courses that can be waived or substituted.

International Admissions

Widener University serves as a "second home" for students from around the world.

Want to know what it's like to be an international student or need assistance navigating English proficiency requirements? We're here to help, and our international admissions director will support you through the application process. This support doesn't end with admissions—our International Student Support team will serve as a valuable resource throughout your Widener journey.

HOW TO APPLY AS A GRADUATE INTERNATIONAL STUDENT

• Complete your online application
• Submit your official transcripts from all college/university post-secondary institutions. A course-by-course credential evaluation completed by a NACES certified organization will be accepted if the transcript is not in the English language.
• Fulfill the English Proficiency requirements

Cost & Affordability

85% of Full-Time Grad Students Receive Aid

Simply apply to Widener and complete the financial aid process to be automatically considered for scholarships and grants. Because Widener is a private institution, we are able to offer financial assistance that brings our education within reach for individuals who might otherwise not be able to afford it. You might be surprised at how much we are able to offer in assistance.

Applying For Financial Aid as a Graduate Student

In order to receive your part of the financial aid pie, all you have to do is submit your FAFSA. "FAFSA" stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and helps identify whether you are eligible for aid awarded by Widener, the government, and other sources.

Employer Discounts & Tuition Reimbursement

Widener University also partners with many local organizations and corporations to offer discounted tuition and other incentives to their employees. Don't see your company on the list? Ask them to become a partner. In addition, employers often offer educational reimbursement benefits. We encourage you to explore these opportunities and will be glad to provide any necessary documentation.

20% Discount for Widener Alumni

(some restrictions apply)

If you graduated with a degree from Widener, you may qualify for a 20% tuition discount. The first step to see what you qualify for is to submit your application. Widener offers students many paths to savings, and while we don't offer "double discounts", we'll make sure you'll get the biggest financial benefit you're eligible for. Only students who have completed an associate's, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree are eligible. Students who have pursued a 4+1, 4+2, or 3+3 pathway, graduate assistantship, Widener-funded scholarship, or other tuition discount may not be eligible if the financial discount granted surpasses 20%.

Program Cost

Local Government & Community Change Certificate

$414 per credit 12 total credits $4,968 total cost