Managing Public Money - Short Course

Program Overview

This 8-week online course from the University of Birmingham and INLOGOV focuses on effective financial management in the public sector. Participants will develop a deeper understanding of government intervention, market failure, externalities, and public goods. Graduates obtain a postgraduate micro-credential certificate and are eligible for career progression in the public or voluntary sectors.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This 8-week short course, offered by the Institute of Local Government Studies (INLOGOV), focuses on the importance of effective financial management within the public sector. It is designed for professionals seeking to enhance their career prospects in the ever-changing world of public administration. The course examines the workings of the economy and the role of government, introducing key skills in budgeting, finance, cost-benefit analysis, and more. Through INLOGOV's influence, participants develop a deeper understanding of contemporary public service practices and strategies, preparing them to lead change globally.

Objectives:

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Recognize the process of resource allocation by the market.
• Distinguish between positive and normative statements.
• Describe and discuss government failure and market failure arguments for government intervention.
• Identify the main reasons for market failure and categorize different examples.
• Describe the concept of externality and identify and distinguish examples.
• Discuss how the public sector can improve outcomes in the face of externalities.
• Explain the problem of public goods and identify possible solutions.
• Describe the key principles of obtaining public finance through taxation, considering efficiency and equity dimensions.

Careers:

This course offers opportunities for career progression in the public, voluntary, or consultancy sectors. It equips participants with skills essential for advancing in the in-demand field of public service. A qualification in public administration opens doors to various career paths, including:

• Local council manager
• Senior policy officer
• Social services manager
• Member of parliament

Other:

• Learners are fully registered University of Birmingham students and are entitled to normal University services (including library and IT resources).
• The course draws on expertise from INLOGOV, lectures, and industry leaders.
• The program improves understanding of public service strategies and their real-world application.
• Participants gain a taste of online learning before committing to a full MPA degree.
• The course offers a postgraduate micro-credential certificate worth 10 masters credits.
• Learning is 100% online, allowing flexibility around existing commitments.
• Participants join a community of like-minded learners from over 50 countries.

The cost to study this online course is £1,250 . This must be paid in full by card before enrolling. The programme fee includes access to the online learning platform, course materials and digital reading materials.

• Prices are subject to change each academic year.