2026-2027

Data Analytics for the Public Sector, Graduate Certificate

Department of Politics and International Affairs

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

The Data Analytics in the Public Sector Graduate Certificate prepares students to use data to inform decision-making, improve organizational performance, and address complex public and nonprofit sector challenges. Designed for working professionals and graduate students, the certificate provides applied training in data management, analytical methods, visualization, and evidence-based practices using real public sector datasets. Students gain the skills needed to interpret and communicate findings, support transparency and accountability initiatives, and contribute to data-driven policy and management solutions across government and nonprofit organizations. This certificate can be completed as a stand-alone credential or paired with a graduate degree to enhance professional preparation in today's data-centered public service environment.

    • Graduate certificate programs require a minimum of 12 credit hours. Many graduate certificate programs require more than 12 credit hours.
    • No more than one 400-level NAU course (3 - 4 units) may be used on a graduate certificate program.
    • No more than twenty-five percent of the units required for the certificate program may be transferred from another university.
    • A 400-level course (undergraduate course) completed at another university is not eligible for transfer credit.
    • A minimum grade point average of 3.0 must be achieved to obtain a graduate certificate. No more than three units of coursework with a Grade of "C" may be used in a certificate program.
    • A graduate student may pursue a graduate certificate concurrently with a graduate degree. Each graduate degree program must decide which, if any, certificate courses can be counted toward the graduate degree.
    • Students who are admitted to a graduate certificate program will be eligible for the official posting of the graduate certificate to their transcripts when all applicable coursework has been successfully completed and approved by the academic unit and the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies.

  • 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:

  • Complete individual plan requirements.

Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.

Minimum Units for Completion 12

Purpose Statement

Data Analytics for the Public Sector (DAPS) Graduate Certificate prepares students in public administration and nonprofit management to apply data analytics in public and mission driven contexts. The program focuses on data analysis, statistical modeling, data mining, and data informed decision making integrated with public sector leadership, strategic planning, and policy implementation. Through applied, interdisciplinary coursework, students develop practical analytical skills grounded in administrative best practices and policy evaluation. The certificate prepares graduates for data informed roles in government and nonprofit organizations and serves as a pathway to advanced study, including the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program.

Student Learning Outcomes

  • Gather, analyze, and interpret quantitative and qualitative data to support evidence-based decision making in public and nonprofit settings.
  • Integrate ethical reasoning, professional standards, and principles of equity into public service leadership and administrative decisions.
  • Design, implement, and evaluate public policies and programs using appropriate analytical tools, performance metrics, and assessment methods.
  • Produce and deliver clear, well supported written and oral communications tailored to diverse professional audiences.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders and communities to advance public values, strengthen accountability, and promote inclusive governance.

Graduate Admission Information

  • 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:

    • Transcripts.
    • Undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution with a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale ("A" = 4.0), or the equivalent.


    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.

Certificate Requirements

  • 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.

Additional Information

  • Some courses may have prerequisites. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.