Graduate Certificate Program
Graduate Certificate in Public Policy
This certificate is open to anyone who has completed a bachelor’s degree.
The Graduate Certificate in Public Policy is designed for individuals who are interested in applied policy-related work and wish to expand their understanding of the policy-making process and of the forces that influence public debates, stimulate policy change, and build the public good. The certificate is open to anyone who has completed a bachelor’s degree.
Certificate students must complete three required courses, covering the dynamics of policy formation, economics, and research design, and one elective in their specific interest area. All four certificate courses count towards the Bloustein Master of Public Policy (48 credits) and the Master of Public Affairs and Politics (30 credits) degrees, for those who decide to continue their studies after completing the certificate.
The Public Policy Program will award a Public Policy Certificate to students who maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher while completing the following 12-credit curriculum in Public Policy
Curriculum
The curriculum consists of 12 credits (four courses):
- 833:510 Public Policy Formation (3)
This course delves into the policy-making process and how new ideas are ultimately generated into workable public policies. The course covers the major and secondary institutions that are responsible for the creation of public policy - 833:530 Research Design (3)
The goal of this course is to teach you to design and critique research so you can solve problems and make informed decisions as future public servants in pursuit of evidence based policy. The course covers data collection, quantitative and qualitative designs, and internal and external validity of designs. - 833:543 Economics for Public Policy (3)
This course applies microeconomic reasoning to public issues, policies, and programs. - 833:5xx Public Policy Elective (3)
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Certificate in Public Policy students should be able to
- Understand theories on public policy formation and implementation, including tri-sector influences on policy;
- Understand the need for inclusion, diversity, equity, and access in public service and policy;
- Analyze and evaluate how policies address various contemporary public problems, using economic, political, and social perspectives;
- Synthesize research and analysis in various policy domains; and
- Create policy memos and briefs for practitioner audiences
Application Requirements
Prospective students must apply online and submit all application materials before the Bloustein School will review your credentials for admission.
- Online application form
- Application fee (Waived for current graduate students already enrolled in a formal Rutgers degree program.)
- Baccalaureate degree from a nationally/internationally accredited program
- Official undergraduate and, if applicable, graduate transcripts from all institutions
- Resume/CV
- TOEFL/IELTS required for non-U.S. applicants. Scores will be accepted up to five years from their issuance.
- Personal statement (approximately 750 words)
Students matriculated in other graduate degree programs at Rutgers University must be in good standing and compete the certificate form through the Bloustein Office of Student Services. For more information, please see Courtney Culler, Assistant Director for Graduate Student Services, in room 183 of the Civic Square Building, or you can contact her by phone 848-932-2727 or by email at courtney.culler@rutgers.edu.