The new 15-credit executive program equips leaders, advocates and change agents with the skills to successfully shape public policy, build followership and drive lasting change.
The Executive Certificate in Policy Leadership from the McCourt School of Public Policy is designed for currently employed senior managers with at least 10 years of experience working in the public, private or nonprofit sector who are seeking to move into public policy and advocacy. The program offers a practical framework for building policy leadership and followership skills, as well as how to persuasively communicate to key audiences.
Classes are taught by McCourt School faculty — distinguished scholars and practitioners who regularly advise senior policymakers and top organizations interacting with government.
The program can be completed in as little as one year through five one-week, in-person modules held on Georgetown’s Capitol Campus in Washington, DC — steps from the institutions and decision-makers shaping public policy.
Core coursework covers leadership, in addition to the policymaking and evaluation process. At the same time, electives allow students to customize the program to their interests, with options such as AI-Augmented Leadership, Negotiation and Budget and Financial Management.
To earn the Executive Certificate, students must take 5 modules of 3-credits each (3 required core courses and 2 elective courses) to earn the 15 credits needed to complete the program. Students must earn a B or better in each course to complete the certificate.
Application Requirements
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and submit an online application, a 500-word personal statement, a resume or CV and transcripts. No letters of recommendation are required. The application deadline for the Spring cohort is November 1, 2026.
Learn more about the Executive Certificate in Public Policy Leadership.