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Build Expertise in Government Affairs, Advocacy at Albany Law

Deepen your knowledge in the practices and strategies needed to become a lobbyist or confidently move into public service.

At Albany Law School, our 100% online certificate program in government affairs and advocacy gives you a strong foundation in advocacy, government procedures, lobbying, and more. Designed for those looking to quickly gain new skills for a promotion or to advance into a new career path, you’ll take nine credit hours—in as little as three months—and gain the tools and techniques you need to move forward professionally.

Why Albany Law?

  • Oldest independent law school in the U.S., which means we have a long, storied history of helping aspiring professionals thrive.
  • Programs for every stage of your career—whether it’s our Advanced Certificate, master’s degree, or LL.M. degree  in government affairs and advocacy.
  • Build actionable skills from wherever you call home at a pace that works best for you.

"As someone who is already working within the State government, [the program] went well beyond the basic ethics training I have to do and gave me a much better understanding of why ethical issues are so important while working in the public sector. It was really valuable."

Halie Northrop, Government Affairs and Advocacy Advanced Certificate

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    At Albany Law, our online certificate program will help you to build new knowledge in government affairs and advocacy—preparing you for the next stage in your professional journey. Whether you’re just starting your career or making a career move, our government certificate will set you up for success.

    Graduates of our online certificate program in government affairs and advocacy can be found working as:

    • Legislative Counsel
    • Congressional Staffer
    • Lobbyist
    • Policy Analyst
    • Government Relations Officer

    Gain actionable skills and move forward professionally with our government affairs and advocacy certificate.

    Our 9-credit-hour government certificate allows you to customize your coursework to your passions and professional aspirations. Most of our govt. affairs and advocacy classes can be taken for one credit or three credits—meaning you can gain a quick introduction or go more in-depth on a particular topic.

    Choose from the following courses to build your online graduate certificate:

    • Administrative Law (3 credits only)
    • Government Ethics
    • Government Spending and Grants
    • Influencing Policymakers Through Advocacy
    • Integrated Communications and Public Relations
    • Legislative Process and Statutory Interpretation
    • Lobbying Law and Ethics
    • NYS Process and Players
    • Policy Change Through Litigation
    • Public Budgets and Finance
    • State and Local Governments
    • Using Law for Social Change

    Take the next step in your career—whether it’s in government or public policy—with Albany Law’s online certificate program. Blend a strong legal background with learning more about how our government operates, you’ll be prepared to hit the ground running in both government or public policy.

    While taking courses online from wherever you call home, you’ll benefit from:

    Educators with expansive expertise

    No matter which government certificate courses you pursue, know that you’ll be taught by individuals who have worked at all levels of government. Our program director, Ava Ayers , litigated cases for the New York state government in areas such as civil rights, immigration law, and more. Our professors also are high-profile activists, lobbyists, and former government officials.

    Learning in the heart of state government

    Situated in Albany, New York—the state capital city—means that many of our educators currently work in government affairs and advocacy. They’ll bring relevant situations and information to your coursework, and just as important, they’ll be your biggest champions as you join in this vital work.

    Affordable career advancement

    We’re known for being one of the most affordable private law schools out there, but our online certificate program students are eligible for up to $360 off per credit by way of scholarship awards. 

    Grow your network and get involved while you pursue online government affairs and advocacy courses. There are many ways you can meet fellow students, including by:

    • Attending an Albany Law School event in New York or wherever you call home.
    • Joining a student club or organization .
    • Taking part in a dean’s forum or lecture series.

    Discover a Future in Government Affairs and Advocacy at Albany Law

    Build the relevant knowledge and know-how you need in government and public policy. Start at Albany Law. We have the govt. affairs and advocacy programs you need to succeed. 

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    Albany Law School student in class lecture

    Accreditation

    Albany Law School is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the American Bar Association (which accredits only J.D. programs).

    Contact Us

    Albany Law Graduate Admissions
    graduateadmissions@albanylaw.edu
    518-445-2365

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