Certified Public Manager® (CPM)
Advance your leadership in public service with the only nationally accredited, fully online Certified Public Manager® program.
Nationally accredited CPM credential
Cohort-based learning experience
Professional certificate
The public sector needs its next generation of leaders
Public sector organizations across the country are preparing for a major leadership transition as experienced managers and administrators retire. Agencies are actively investing in the next generation of leaders equipped to manage teams, drive organizational performance, and lead through change.
Earn the nationally recognized Certified Public Manager® (CPM) credential online through Arizona State University in just 9 months.
Designed for government professionals, public safety leaders, tribal administrators, and military professionals preparing for leadership advancement in today’s evolving public sector workforce.
Why professionals choose ASU’s CPM program
Arizona’s only nationally accredited CPM provider
Bob Ramsey Executive Education is the only nationally accredited provider of the Certified Public Manager® credential in Arizona.
Flexible online learning designed for working professionals
Complete coursework on your schedule through a fully asynchronous online format designed to fit around professional responsibilities. Optional weekly instructor office hours and live mini-lectures provide opportunities to ask questions, engage with faculty, and connect with peers throughout the program.
Nationally respected credential
The CPM designation is accredited by the National CPM Consortium and recognized as the gold standard in public sector management development.
Backed by ASU’s top-ranked public affairs school
Delivered through ASU’s nationally ranked School of Public Affairs:
#1 in local government management#3 in public affairs
Program overview
Format: 100% online
Duration: 9 months
Tuition: $5,000
Start Date: August 24, 2026
Credential Awarded: Certified Public Manager® (CPM)
Application deadline: August 17, 2026
Course structure:
5 courses 4-5 weeks each timing as noted below
Course 1: August 24-September 27, 2026
Course 2: October 12-November 8, 2026
Course 3: January 4-February 7, 2027
Course 4: March 1-April 4, 2027
Course 5: April 26-May 30, 2027
Built for public sector professionals
Government managers and department leaders
Police, fire, and public safety professionals
Tribal administrators and program directors
Military leaders transitioning into civilian management
Emerging leaders preparing for advancement
What you’ll learn
Develop practical leadership skills in:
Public sector management
Decision-making
Organizational leadership
Systems thinking
Ethical public service
Complete a real-world capstone project designed to address challenges within your organization.
Tuition assistance may be available
ASU is ranked the #1 Many public sector, nonprofit, and government organizations offer up to $5,250 annually in tax-free educational assistance for professional development.
As a nationally accredited leadership program, the ASU CPM may qualify for full or partial reimbursement through your employer’s tuition assistance or workforce development budget.
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Program eligibility
The program is intended for emerging and established professionals who are committed to advancing leadership capacity within public-serving organizations. Participants should be prepared to engage in a collaborative learning environment that emphasizes professional growth, peer connection, and practical leadership development.
To be eligible, applicants must:
Be employed by, partnered with, or actively working in support of a public sector, tribal, nonprofit, or quasi-government organization
Have completed a minimum of 60 hours of qualifying leadership or supervisory training, demonstrating a commitment to continued professional and leadership development
Commit to active participation throughout the cohort experience, including attendance, collaboration with peers, and engagement in program activities and discussions
Applicants should be motivated to apply what they learn within their organizations and communities while contributing meaningfully to the shared cohort experience.
Request information
Take the next step in public leadership
Complete the form below to learn more about the ASU Certified Public Manager® program, eligibility requirements, upcoming cohorts, and the application process. An enrollment advisor will contact you with program details, eligibility guidance, and next steps.