Local Government Management Certificate

What is the Local Government Management Certificate?

Local communities and the governments that support them need leaders who can do more than manage – they need innovators who can reimagine public service for the 21st century. The Local Government Management Certificate provides the tools, frameworks, and strategic mindset to drive meaningful change in your community. Professionals with the certificate have an opportunity to distinguish themselves as administrators with the knowledge and skills to succeed as effective and wise leaders in local government. Whether you're advancing your career in city or county management, transitioning into public service, or adding specialized expertise to your graduate studies, this 15-hour certificate program delivers immediate, real-world impact. Designed for working professionals, our fully online format (with optional in-person courses for Memphis-area students) means you can build expertise in evidence-based budgeting, urban policy, and strategic leadership without putting your career on pause.

Admission

Click here for the full certificate admission requirements (which are the same as the MPA program).

Applicants seeking the certificate must first be admitted to the University of Memphis Graduate School through the regular application process. 

Curriculum

The certificate requires three core courses and two elective courses, for 15 total credit hours of graduate coursework. Core courses are all offered online and electives may be online or in person. The student will work with their advisor to select electives that best align with their academic and career plans. These courses may be chosen from any PADM course or from another department. 

Three Core Local Government Management Courses (9 hours)

• Urban Administration (PADM 6221)
• Public Budgeting and Finance (PADM 7602)
• Seminar in Urban Problems (PADM 7224)

Two Elective Courses (6 hours) – options include, but are not limited to:

• Human Resources Administration (PADM 7605)
• Interagency Collaboration (PADM 7614)
• Strategic Planning and Performance Management (PADM 7721)
• Seminar in Public Policy Analysis (PADM 7213)
• Urbanization and the Environment (PLAN 6201)
• Seminar in U.S. Government (POLS 7202)
• Social Welfare Policy (SWRK 7030)

FAQs

How quickly can I complete the certificate?

Coursework for the certificate can usually be completed in a 12-18 month time frame. 

Can I earn the certificate while I am enrolled in another graduate degree program at the University of Memphis? 

Yes! The certificate may complement a course of graduate study in a different field. As such, applicants may be enrolled in another graduate degree program. Please contact the Certificate Advisor (below) for more information on how to enroll in the certificate.

Can I do the certificate and still work full time?

Yes! Scheduling for the certificate is designed for the working professional. Classes are offered either online or typically one night a week on campus. 

How much does the certificate cost?

Tuition and fees for the certificate are the same as regular graduate tuition for the University of Memphis.  There is no additional fee for enrolling in the program.  The fee schedule is available on the University website.

Who should I contact for more information about the certificate program?

Dr. Joseph Hafer / jahafer@memphis.edu / 901.678.3349