Public policy shapes the behavior of individuals, organizations, and corporations and affects almost every aspect of society. The ability to develop “good” public policy requires both a strong analytical base and political astuteness. The required courses in the certificate establish a contextual and analytical foundation, equipping students with the ability to both prospectively assess and retrospectively evaluate public initiatives. Electives enable additional exploration of particular policy areas.
Admission to Graduate Studies
An applicant seeking to pursue graduate study in the College may be admitted as either a degree-seeking or non-degree seeking student. Policies and procedures of Graduate Studies govern the process of Graduate admission. These may be found in the Graduate Studies section of the online catalog.
Please consult the Departments & Programs section of the online catalog for information regarding program-specific admissions criteria and requirements. Special admissions requirements pertain to Interdisciplinary Studies degrees, which may be found in the Graduate Studies section of the online catalog.
The School of Public Affairs & Administration (SPAA) accepts students on a rolling admissions basis. Students may apply to be admitted for either the fall, summer or spring semesters. Applicants for the certificate are required to meet the following program requirements:
- An undergraduate degree with a GPA of 3.0 (if the undergraduate degree was awarded in the last three years); and
- the University requirement that Non-native speakers of English meet Graduate Studies English proficiency.
Current graduate students who wish to earn a graduate certificate credential in any of the SPAA certificates must submit a graduate application for the specific certificate program no later than enrollment in the final course that will count toward the certificate.
Individuals who are not already enrolled as KU graduate students must complete an application to Graduate Studies for admission into the certificate program and submit an application fee along with the following materials:
• A current resume.
• A statement of interest in the graduate certificate program. This 1-2 page narrative should summarize your education, employment history, career goals, and how this certificate will bolster your professional aspirations.
• Official transcripts of baccalaureate degree/s and any post-baccalaureate course work.
The admissions committee may request additional materials if needed to assess an applicant’s ability to be successful in the coursework.
More information about SPAA graduate certificates can be found on the SPAA Graduate Certificates pages.
Certificate Requirements
The certificate requires 4 courses for a total of 12 graduate credit hours. Other courses may be substituted with the approval of the MPA Faculty Director. Student pursuing more than one SPAA certificate may use a maximum of one course to count towards both certificates. While completing the following degree requirements, graduate students are expected to understand and follow Office of Graduate Studies policies relevant to their student status and academic standing.
Course List | Code | Title | Hours |
| |
| PUAD 853 | Policy Analysis | 3 |
| PUAD 863 | Program Evaluation | 3 |
| |
| PUAD 825 | Urban Policy and Administration | 3 |
| PUAD 828 | Nonprofit Management and Policy | 3 |
| UBPL 710 | Housing Policy and Planning | 3 |
| or UBPL 720 | Sustainable Land Use Policy and Planning |
| or UBPL 750 | Transportation Policy and Planning |
| or UBPL 764 | Real Estate Development |
