Certificate in Federal Policy and Management
Lead and influence change at the national level.
The Federal Policy and Management graduate certificate combines work experience with new knowledge about leading in federal sector institutions. Learn from public management experts about how federal policy is created and implemented, how to manage public organizations and how to innovate in the interest of your country's citizens.
The certificate can be completed 100% online, or can be combined with a D.C.-based internship to provide federal government work experience. The internship component is flexible and can be waived based on relevant, preexisting work experience or current job.
Learn how to work effectively within the dynamic federal policy environment.
Learn more about the Certificate in Federal Policy and Management.
Once you have gathered your application components listed below you can begin your application. This program can be done on its own or alongside a graduate program at Ohio State. Please note that there are different processes for each population of applicants as listed below. This is a two-step process with an application and interview.
Application Procedure:
- For those outside of Ohio State, submit an application (choose "Graduate Certificate" option) through Graduate Admissions, including transcripts, resume and personal statement about how the certificate advances your professional goals and why you want to participate in the program.
- For those currently in non-Glenn Ohio State graduate programs, submit an application (choose "Intra-University" option) through Graduate Admissions, including transcripts, resume and personal statement about how the certificate advances your professional goals and why you want to participate in the program.
- For those currently in Glenn Ohio State graduate programs, submit an application through the internal application, including a resume and personal statement about how the certificate advances your professional goals and why you want to participate in the program.
Interview:
- Shortly after application submission, candidates may be asked to interview with a member of the Glenn College’s D.C. office. The objective of the interview is to better understand candidates’ interest and ensure their professional goals are aligned with the structure of the certificate program.
Admission assessment will review:
- Can the candidate succeed in coursework required? This criterion is assessed based on GPA and academic record.
- Does the candidate demonstrate strong interest in federal policy and management as a complement to their field of expertise and/or career in the federal government? This criterion is assessed based on responses to essays and the interview.
Students must have earned a bachelor's or advanced degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
International students are recommended to score at least a 100 in the TOEFL iBT. Please note: certificate credit hours may hinder Visa status. Ohio State's International Eligibility Information.
The Federal Sector Internship component is a highly valuable experiential learning opportunity for those looking to gain relationships and experience. Our team will guide you through the process and answer any questions you have about internship placement.
Waiving the Internship Requirement:
Those with a permanent position using this program as a way to boost their skills and understanding may not want or need an internship placement. This requirement will be waived for students with:
- At least one year of full-time professional experience relating to the field of federal public affairs including experience such as the development and implementation of public policy, public management, nonprofit management, international relations, or government relations.
To receive the certificate, students must achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Only grades "A" through "C-", as well as "S", will count toward certificate completion.
The Federal Policy and Management program, as well as internships with the federal government can be completed from anywhere in the world.
For students interested in a Washington, D.C., experience, the Glenn College invests in academic programming and in-residence support for students in the nation's capital. We have staff working full-time in Washington to provide students, and our partners, with comprehensive on-the-ground support.
In addition to having the support of a D.C.-based team, participants can engage with Ohio State alumni and in the greater D.C. community through organized programming and events. Students will be provided with opportunity to build their networks and connect with mentors in their chosen field.
You may also be matched with an alumni mentor. Mentors provide an added layer of support and help to connect students, broaden your professional network, enhance your classroom experience and prepare for the job search process.