Election administration in the United States is unique. While most democracies rely on a central government to administer elections, responsibility for election management and delivery in the United States is decidedly local. In this certificate, students will learn how to run and manage an election through the lens of public administration.
Federal financial aid is not available for some certificates if the certificate is pursued and completed as a stand-alone certificate (i.e., not completed concurrently with a degree program). See the “Details” tab for additional information.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 15 |
| Additional Admission Requirements | Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required. |
| Some online/blended coursework | Required |
Purpose Statement
The Election Administration in Public Administration (EAPA) graduate certificate is designed to train future and current public sector employees who have a bachelor's degree and currently work for or want to develop a career in election administration within federal, state, county, local, or tribal governments.
The program covers topics critical to the democratic process and essential for effective election administration, including logistics, cybersecurity, and legal analysis. Students will develop skills to manage election logistics, voter registration, and alternative voting methods, evaluate best administrative practices for their population and area, select technologies, evaluate cybersecurity threats, and apply audits to ensure election accuracy.
Graduates of this certificate program will be well-prepared for various roles in the field of election administration. The field of public administration and policy, including election administrators, is experiencing higher-than-average job growth, with clearly defined career paths available in government. The program aims to equip public/nonprofit sector employees with the knowledge and skills to advance in their careers and take on different job titles and roles within election administration. The workforce in this field includes full-time staff, temporary employees hired during election periods, and poll workers who assist voters, manage polling locations, and ensure the integrity of the voting process.
Student Learning Outcomes
The NAU graduate online application is required for all programs. Admission to many graduate programs is on a competitive basis, and programs may have higher standards than those established by the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies.
Admission requirements include the following:
Visit the NAU Graduate Admissions website for additional information about graduate school application deadlines, eligibility for study, and admissions policies.
Ready to apply? Begin your application now.
International applicants have additional admission requirements. Please see the International Graduate Admissions Policy.
Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required.
*See the application for details.
For those applying for fall 2026 and beyond, the following will be required:
This certificate may be pursued and completed concurrently with a degree program or as a stand-alone certificate. Federal financial aid cannot be used if the certificate is completed as a stand-alone certificate.
Some courses may have prerequisites. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.