Program Overview

Program Overview

The Public Budgeting and Financial Management Certificate program is designed to educate administrators and professionals in government and not-for-profit organizations who need to acquire additional knowledge in the area of public budgeting and financial management. The courses center on enhancing students’ understanding of contextual and practical aspects of how financial information is developed and used in establishing the performance, legitimacy, and accountability of governments and non-profit organizations.

Program Details

Transfer Credits and Course Substitutions

A student can transfer up to 15 nondegree PADM credits towards their MPA degree. Students should read the Graduate School Policy GCAC-309 on Credit Transfer before putting in an application to the MPA program. Approval to any credits transfer toward the MPA degree must be granted by the student's academic adviser, the Professor-in-Charge, and the Graduate School.

Program Requirements

For course descriptions and requirements, see the Penn State University Bulletin.

Program Structure

The program is offered by the School of Public Affairs at Penn State Harrisburg, a comprehensive college in southcentral Pennsylvania offering more than 70 undergraduate and graduate programs.

Academic Context

Penn State Harrisburg is part of The Pennsylvania State University, which has a vision, mission, and values that guide its academic and administrative leadership. The university is committed to diversity and inclusion and has a range of academic and administrative offices, including the Chancellor's Office and the Board of Advisors.

Research and Student Life

The university has a range of research areas, including the Office of Research and Outreach and the Harrisburg LaunchBox. Student life is supported by the Office of Student Engagement, the Division of Student Affairs, and the Student Initiated Fee.

University Information

• The Pennsylvania State University is located at 777 West Harrisburg Pike, Middletown, PA.
• The university has a range of policies, including privacy, non-discrimination, accessibility, and copyright policies.
• The university is committed to community safety and health, with services including University Police and Public Safety, PSUAlert, and a weather policy.