Health Policy

The Certificate in Health Policy from the McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University develops and hones the skills professionals need to work in health policy.  The Health Policy Certificate program is designed to provide a practical understanding of how the public policy process works, grounding in major health policies, and in-depth skills on how to influence health policy in today’s challenging political and policy environment.  Designed for leaders working in the public, private, and non-profit sectors, this 15-credit program can be completed in one year.

As the highest-ranking program in public policy analysis in the Washington area, the McCourt School of Public Policy has significant expertise in delivering courses in health policy and the policy process.  The School’s location in the center of the policy world in Washington, DC, and its institutional affiliation with Georgetown University School of Medicine, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, and the Georgetown University Health Policy Institute, enable access to extensive resources, expert faculty, and cutting-edge research that greatly benefit and enrich the academic experience.

• Certificate

For general graduate admissions requirements, visit the Office of Graduate Admission’s Application Information page. Review the program’s website for additional information on program application requirements.

Application Materials required:

• Application Form
• Non-refundable Application Fee
• Academic Statement of Purpose
• Optional: Statement on Diversity, Personal Background & Contributions
• Transcripts – Applicants are required to upload to the application system copies of official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. Visit the Office of Graduate Admission’s Application Information page for additional details and FAQs.
• Resume/CV
• TOEFL/IELTS  (if applicable)
  • TOEFL = 100 minimum
  • IELTS = 7.0 minimum

• Spring: November 1
• Summer: March 1
• Fall: April 1

Students must select and complete 15 credits from the classes listed below. At least nine credits must focus on health policy (classes that meet this criteria are bolded below). With permission of the McCourt School’s Assistant Dean of Academic & Student Affairs, students may substitute other courses to meet this requirement. Students must earn a B or better in all courses to complete the certificate.

• Health Care Quality (PPOL 640)
• Health Policy and Politics (PPOL 642)
• Global Health (PPOL 782)
• Strategy and Public Policy (PPOL 639)
• Public Policy Process (PPOL 510)
• Strategic Advocacy: Lobbying/Interest Groups (PPOL 632)
• Lobbying and Government Relations (PPOL 796)
• Health Demand (PPOL 643)
• Health Supply (PPOL 644)
• Policy and Politics of Entitlements (PPOL 604)
• State and Local Governance (PPOL 654)
• Public Policy, Advocacy, and Social Change (PPOL 653)
• Public Opinion and Public Behavior (PPOL 693)
• Risk Management (PPOL 680)

Program Contact: mccourtadmissions@georgetown.edu

Begin your application today!