Institutions of higher education are complex organizations that require administrators to have diverse knowledge of both administrative and managerial concepts as well as a sound understanding of the internal and external environments and complexities of academic institutions. This program is designed to provide participants with an overall understanding of the operational and strategic issues and challenges of higher education administration and an understanding of the administrative models and practices that can lead to effective administration. This six-course graduate certificate is designed to provide a philosophical and conceptual base of understanding around how institutions of higher education work, as well as to build the competencies necessary to be successful in an administrative role. It may be used as stand-alone professional preparation, as a complement to other graduate work, or as an initial step in the completion of the Master of Science in Leadership. The program is best suited for both those individuals currently in lower and middle-level administrative roles, and those interested in transitioning from industries and organizations outside of higher education to administrative positions within the academy.

Courses from this certificate may be applied toward the Master of Education.