Public Sector Leadership Certificate

  • Graduate Certificate
  • Continuing Education

This interdisciplinary certificate covers four core competencies in public sector leadership:

  • applied statistics and data analysis,
  • financial management,
  • strategic management,
  • contracting principles (procurement),
  • and cyber security. 

These courses complement careers in the military, government, non-profit, and other public organizations. You will learn alongside experts, as well as full- and part-time ODU students pursuing certificates and master's degrees. 

With the skills you gain from this certificate, you will be prepared to take positions in middle and upper management, and to lead teams in contract negotiations, finance, and strategic initiatives.

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    • 15 credit hours (five courses)

    You will study:

    • Introduction to Public Procurement
    • Managing Development & Change in Organizations
    • Foundations of Cybersecurity
    • Public Budgeting and Financial Management
    • Applied Statistics & Data Analysis
  • Access course materials online from any location. Some classes will have live, regular online meeting times, while others will not. The instructor may schedule assignments and exams at specific times. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

  • This online graduate certificate will complement your career in the military, government, non-profit, and other public organizations.

  • In-state Virginia Residents
    $620 per credit hour*
    Out-of-state Students
    $642 per credit hour

    Rates are effective Fall 2024 and subject to change.
    * In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

You'll have a dedicated academic advisor for this program.

Contact us if you have questions about admission requirements, transferring credits, or application deadlines.

  • To take these courses, you should have a bachelor's degree from a regionally-accredited institution and be accepted as a non-degree seeking graduate student at ODU.