Leadership of International and Non-Government Organizations

Certificate of Advanced Study

The 21st Century has seen significant growth in the international public sector with an increasing number of international organizations exercising functions previously managed by national governments. The secretariats of these organizations, composed of international civil servants, have become major actors in delivering global services, and the management of these organizations has become a significant issue for public administration.  This growth has been matched by the emergence of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) as increasingly able and legitimate actors in the international domain that has altered the dynamics of civil society’s relationship with international organizations and national governments throughout the world - playing a critical role in identifying, framing, and responding to the global problems that we face today.

The Certificate is composed of a cluster of four graduate courses (12 credits), organized by three thematic areas: 1) the operating context and key actors, 2) organizational leadership, and 3) policy context and analysis. The Executive Education Seminar on organizational leadership (PPA 895/6) is a required course.   With careful guidance, students select the remaining three courses from the professional programs in public administration and international relations as well as the social science departments in the Maxwell School.  To complete the Certificate, students complete at least one course in each thematic area, based on professional need or substantive interest.  All courses may be applied to the Executive MPA degree.

Examples of courses that are offered in each thematic area include:

Associated Faculty