Civic Education and Public Advocacy - Indiana University-Purdue University - Fort Wayne

Civic Education and Public Advocacy from Indiana University-Purdue University - Fort Wayne is a Campus Certificate Public Administration degree that prepares you for a Human Services career. About the Certificate As a participant in the American Democracy Project, IPFW is striving to find ways to create an intellectual and experiential understanding of civic engagement for undergraduates. The Certificate in Civic Education and Public Advocacy produces graduates who understand and are committed to meaningful actions as citizens in a democracy. This begins with thoughtful discussions of issues such as equality, justice, liberty, war, and peace. It is enhanced by examination of the practical manifestations of these ideas in government structures and public policies. It is completed through a capstone course?field experience in civic engagement that will forge partnerships with public agencies and community organizations to enhance the educational experience. This certificate, which is affiliated with the Mike Downs Center for Indiana Politics, requires more than learning the basic structure of government. It encompasses learning the historical and philosophical foundations of our democracy and questioning long-established ideas. It is designed to prepare a person to be an informed citizen or public servant who understands public policy issues, and to succeed in a wide variety of careers. There is another practical reason why this certificate is needed at IPFW. Fort Wayne has been practicing community-oriented policing and government for years. Allen County is moving in this same direction. This style of government calls for the engagement of residents with the government. Together, community needs and solutions are identified to make the community a better place to live. The better prepared those members of the community are to view things from a variety of perspectives, build coalitions, collaborate, and negotiate, the more efficiently and effectively they will be able to work with the government. Goals for Students Recognize that they are a part of a larger society and that every person has value Understand that as a part of a larger society, every person shares the responsibility for addressing social issues Acquire the knowledge, skills, and ability to function effectively in a variety of workplace and community-based roles and activities Develop the necessary language and technical skills for purposeful inquiry and communication Clarify issues in the community, develop a plan to address the issues, and marshal support for that plan Understand how to involve the community in decision-making processes and see the value in doing so Know how to marshal the resources to address the needs of the community and feel obliged to contribute to the betterment of the community Become directly involved, through the capstone course, in a community-based project Create civic professionals Learning Objectives for Students Participate in at least one community-based project Identify at least one issue in the community, develop a plan to address the issue, and build support for that plan Involve the community in decision-making processes Marshal the resources to address the needs of the community View more details on Indiana University-Purdue University - Fort Wayne, IN . Ask your questions and apply online for this program or find other related Public Administration courses.