Certificate in Election Administration Application Requirements

America’s election system faces an urgent need for professionals who are well-trained in the latest technology and techniques in the field and well-versed in the legal and policy challenges facing our voting system. The Humphrey School of Public Affairs is responding to this widespread need with a pioneering online program to prepare professionals in election administration.

The Humphrey School considers many factors when choosing applicants for admission. We evaluate attributes such as prior academic achievement, professional and public service experience, commitment to a career in public affairs or planning, and a fit between the applicant's interests and goals and the programs at the Humphrey School.

Before You Apply: Connect with Us

For questions about the application process, please email the admissions team.

For questions about the Certificate in Election Administration program, please email C[email protected] to connect with the CEA team:

  • Lea Chittenden, Program Director
  • Cody Jacket, Program Specialist

Post-Baccalaureate Prerequisites

  • Four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S. university or foreign equivalent
  • Sufficient prior academic preparation

Undergraduate Prerequisites

  • 1 year of work experience in election administration or related field or 45 college credits
  • Sufficient prior academic preparation

Certificate in Election Administration Application Checklist

Please note that some requirements only apply to the post-baccalaureate certificate and are noted below.

 

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1. Personal statement

A personal statement is required of all applicants. In 500 words or fewer, double spaced, discuss your educational and professional experiences and goals. Relate these goals to your personal history and to the programs at the Humphrey School.

2. Diversity statement (Post-baccalaureate certificate only)

The diversity statement is optional yet recommended for all applicants. The statement should discuss how your background, experiences, and achievements will contribute to the University's goal of promoting excellence through diversity. If applicable, applicants should mention hardships or obstacles that they have overcome to complete their undergraduate education (e.g. low-income and first-generation college applicants).

3. Resume or CV

A resume or CV is required of all applicants. Please include information about awards, leadership, and service or volunteer activities in your resume.

4. Transcripts (Post-baccalaureate certificate only)

Transcripts are required of all applicants. Unofficial transcripts or academic records of all post secondary institutions attended should be uploaded directly to the online application. Please do not mail in paper copies of your transcripts (there is no need for official transcripts or academic records for initial review). If you are admitted, the University will then request official copies of this material.

5. English language requirement

The University of Minnesota and the Humphrey School requires international applicants to submit scores from either the TOEFL, IELTS, or MELAB examination to assess English language proficiency. Visit the Graduate School website for more information on the English language requirement and minimum scores for admission.

6. Extenuating circumstances (Post-baccalaureate certificate only)

Applicants wishing to provide additional information to the admissions committee which is not appropriate for other required documents but may be helpful in their consideration as a candidate for admission can submit a statement of extenuating circumstances. Examples may include, but are not limited to: explanations for grade trends during undergraduate work, time lapses between employment as documented in the resume/CV, or other personal circumstances which may provide additional and helpful context.

7. Application fee (Post-baccalaureate certificate only)

The application fee is $75 for domestic students and $95 for international students.

8. Start your application

All Humphrey School applicants for the post-baccalaureate certificate must complete the Graduate School application, including the additional Humphrey School section.

Apply for the post-baccalaureate certificate

To apply for the undergraduate certificate, please visit the link below.

Apply for the undergraduate certificate