Spring term 1 begins. Application deadline passed.
Spring term 2 begins. Apply by Feb. 20.
Explore Public Administration
Embark on a comprehensive journey through the dynamic field of public administration with our online public administration certificate. This program delves deep into the latest theories, contemporary practices, and emerging trends, empowering participants to acquire practical expertise in policy analysis, public policy design, and the nuanced aspects of decision-making, stratetic planning, and financial management within the public sector and nonprofit organizations.
Our certificate program blends academic rigor with immediate real-world applicability, providing professionals with the tools and acumen necessary to navigate the intricate landscape of public administration.
Build Your Career Future
Embrace the journey to personal and professional accomplishment in public service with our online graduate certificate in Public Administration. Our hands-on coursework is applicable to the workplace from day one. Whether you've already earned a degree or are exploring a new career path, a public administration certificate is a great way to get your resume noticed and showcase your expertise in a specialized area of knowledge right from the start.
Note: All programs, undergraduate and graduate, must be submitted individually to the Department of Veterans Affairs for review and approval before students can utilize their G.I. Benefits to pay for them. This program is currently awaiting approval. To learn more about the process, visit the VA School Program Approval page on the VA website. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact your admission counselor or email us at onlineadmissions@champlain.edu.
Program Curriculum
Learn more about Champlain's 100% online graduate certificate in public administration, designed for working professionals.
In this course students will focus on the key theories, practices, and trends in public administration. Topics include the historical development of public administration in the United States, politics of political institutions, management, leading in public administration, key roles and functions of public administration, organizational structure of government organizations, analysis of key public administration theories, understanding bureaucracy and its role, public administration reforms, and future trends.
In this course, students will focus on the methodology for analyzing, developing, and implementing public policy. Topics include types of public policies, understanding the policy-making process, analyzing public policies, impact analysis of public policies, understanding the role of stakeholders in public policy, economic, social, and political factors influencing policy, and case studies in public policy analysis.
Students will examine public budgeting processes, financial management principles, and fiscal decision-making specific to the public sector. Topics include: the public budgeting process: formulation, execution, and auditing; revenue generation and sources of public funds; expenditure management and cost control; financial planning and forecasting; accountability and transparency; and the evaluation of case studies in public budgeting and financial management.
Additional Program Details
Graduates of the public administration online graduate certificate program will demonstrate the following industry-specific skills, knowledge, and competencies:
- Synthesize key concepts, theories, and practices, and apply this knowledge to address complex issues in public administration.
- Examine public policies, integrate different perspectives and contexts in policy evaluations, and propose policy recommendations.
- Interpret the formulation and implementation of public budgets and finances, and critically evaluate the ethical and legal ramifications of fiscal decisions in public administration.
Champlain College Online's business faculty, led by Department Chair Dr. Albert Orbinati, are expert practitioners in the field. Their industry expertise ensures that our business management curriculum is aligned with the needs of employers, and reflects the skills today’s business professionals need for success. Classes led by our seasoned experts will give you real-world insight into the business world, and create a rich community of career-focused learning.
Tuition & Costs
Graduate Tuition Fall '23 - Summer '25
*Based on a 3-credit course; cost will vary if course is a different number of credits
** Starting Summer 2024, not retroactive
See the graduate cost of attendance and fees here
Affordability and Paying For Your Education
We provide a number of options to make your online education affordable, including preferred tuition for alumni, associate degree graduates, community college graduates, and military.
Accomplish More with a Graduate Certificate in Public Administration
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of public administrators will grow 11% from 2023 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is being driven by the increasing complexity of government and the need for qualified professionals to manage public resources effectively.
Top Reasons to Pursue a Certificate
- Enter a new field
- Build new skills
- Differentiate your resume
- Earn a credential
- Test a new field
Why Champlain
Online Experience
"I did not expect my online classes to be so collaborative or to have such constant engagement. One might think the traditional classroom approach would have more of those things, but I found them be even more present in Champlain's online format."
Academic Excellence and Recognition
Regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Designated as a Military Friendly School for our commitment to the military community
Ranked among the best by Tech Guide for game design and computer science
Named the among the best schools with accelerated bachelor's degrees by Intelligent.com
Meet the Program Director
Albert Orbinati, PhD
- Business (A.S., B.S., M.S., Certificates)
- Human Resource Management (B.S., Certificates)
- Leadership (M.S.)
- Management Information Systems (B.S.)
- Organization Development & Human Relations (M.S.)
About
Albert Orbinati, PhD, is Assistant Professor and Department Chair for the undergraduate and graduate business programs at Champlain College Online.
Prior to Champlain, Dr. Orbinati's roles have included Assistant Vice President of Online Learning and Continuing Education at Medaille University in Buffalo, NY; Dean of the School of Professional and Continuing Education at Russell Sage College in Albany, NY; and Director of Online and Non-Traditional Programs at Utica University in Utica, NY. In addition to his career in higher education, Albert is a member of the U.S. military, and currently holds the rank of Major in the Vermont Air National Guard.
Dr. Orbinati holds a B.A. in Urban Planning from Binghamton University, an M.A. in Adult Education from Central Michigan University, an M.B.A from Champlain College, and a Ph.D. in Adult Education from Capella University.
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Learn what you can expect from your online experience at Champlain College Online
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