Thomas Edison State University is furthering its commitment to workforce-driven education with the launch of 15 undergraduate certificates starting in January 2026. The targeted credentials were approved by the university’s board of trustees in June and are designed to serve as pathways toward full degree completion while providing value in the job market.
“These new certificates allow students to level up their skills and credentials in manageable, career-relevant increments,” said Dr. Merodie A. Hancock, president of TESU. “Whether a student is looking to reskill, upskill or complete a degree, these stackable pathways create flexible access to professional advancement.”
The certificates span high-demand fields across the humanities, behavioral sciences and public service, including political science, mental health, clinical and forensic psychology studies, social and organizational behavior, sociology, pre-law (law and society), forensic psychology, international relations, public safety, literature, history, ethics, global studies, and teacher leadership.
Each certificate is designed to function as both a standalone credential and a stepping-stone toward associate or bachelor’s degrees, allowing students to build their academic portfolio one credential at a time.
In addition to the new certificates, the board approved a revision to the master of public administration program. Beginning with students admitted in the September 2025 term, the total credit requirement for the MPA will be reduced from 36 to 30 credits. The change is designed to improve accessibility and affordability while maintaining the rigor and impact of the program’s core competencies in alignment with Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration’s universal required competencies.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals with a master’s degree in public administration can expect strong employment prospects with job growth of 6% over the next 10 years in occupations that generally require an MPA, including policy managers, administrative analysts, directors of governmental operations, economic developers and nonprofit executives. The median earnings for these jobs is $106,880.
“By redesigning the MPA program, we’ve modernized the degree and broadened access for working professionals to develop the public leadership and administrative skills necessary for driving lasting and positive impact within the communities they serve,” said Dr. Malcolm Oliver, dean of the John S. Watson School for Public Service.
The university’s partnership with the New Jersey Civil Service Commission allows public sector employees at the state, county and municipal levels to attend the university and pursue the MPA degree at a discounted tuition rate.
