Overview
The Judicial Administration graduate certificate provides
students with an opportunity to learn from leaders in the
California Judicial Branch. As a unique and only program of
its kind in the United States, graduates will learn the skills
needed to make a difference in the successful practice of
judicial administration.
Benefits
- Convenient scheduling supports working professionals
- Courses provide the skills and education required to work
with judicial officers and stakeholders at higher levels in
the Judicial Branch and justice system
- May be used toward the six units of elective credit required
for a master’s degree at Sacramento State
- Graduates of the Judicial Administration program often go on
to leadership and career development opportunities within the
Judicial Branch
Audience
Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s Degree (it must be
awarded before the start of the first semester of the program). A
GPA of 3.0 for all undergraduate coursework and in the last 60
units is strongly preferred. Applicants must also have
professional experience in the Judicial Branch, although a
minimum number of years of experience is not required. It
is strongly recommended that
applicants be currently employed by a California state court
or the Judicial Council of California at an analyst level or
above to ensure they are prepared for the coursework in this
program.
Structure
PPA 291: Court Governance and Operations
PPA 292: Court Management
PPA 293: Court Leadership
PPA 294: Emerging Issues in Judicial Administration
Courses are offered using a combination of
in-person instruction and online learning, including video
streaming. Each course meets for 16 weeks with two in-person
weekend class meetings alternating between Northern California
and Southern California.
Each course also requires students to meet virtually on Wednesday
evenings using Zoom. Students must have access to a computer, a
high-speed Internet connection, speakers/headphones, and a
microphone.
Fees
Course Fee & Program Cost
Each course is 3 units ($535 per unit), totalling
$1,605 per course and $6,450 for the program.
Total excludes textbooks, transportation, and
lodging for the in-person class meetings in Northern and
Southern California.
Note: Current course fees are set for 2026-2027 and will
increase to $550 per unit in 2028-2029.
Application Fee
A $30 non-refundable processing fee, payable upon formal
admission to the program, will be required. Admitted students
will be given instructions on how to pay the fee.
Please check with your court to see if they offer tuition
reimbursement.
Since this is a certificate program, financial aid is not
available.
