The inner machinery of democracy in California – from bills and lobbying to courts and elections – is revealed in a professional certification program launched at the University of California, Merced.
UC Merced’s Division of Professional and Continuing Education (PACE) offers the Professional Certificate in California Government and Policy. The program is presented in partnership with the university’s Center for Analytic Political Engagement (CAPE).
The 24-week Government and Policy certification consists of four courses:
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California State Government Overview
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Lobbying & Budget
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Elections, Direct Democracy & Rulemaking
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California Legislature, Process & Drafting
Program graduate Brandon Souza said the certification was exactly what he needed for a career pivot into Sacramento’s political landscape.
“The instruction, along with an impressive lineup of guest lecturers, delivered a wealth of insight,” said Souza, now a senior strategy consultant at Change Craft. “I now have a strong understanding of the inner workings of California politics.”
Another graduate, Brock Cavett, said the knowledge gained from the certification program helped him secure a job as Director of Advocacy and Programs at San Diego Pride.
“As a full-time working professional, the program was structured in a way that allowed me to maximize my participation through discussion posts and other assignments while having the flexibility to engage with class content in a way that worked with my schedule,” Cavett said.
“I highly recommend this certificate to anyone who is considering entering the world of politics but may not have the time or ability to complete a full master’s program.”
The program instructor is Chris Micheli, an attorney and lobbyist with the government relations firm Snodgrass & Micheli LLC. Micheli is an adjunct professor at the McGeorge School of Law at the University of the Pacific.
“The goal of the professional certificate is to provide a solid foundation for students interested in working in local or state government in California,” Micheli said. “While the courses are asynchronous, I provide several live lectures, and we have high-caliber guest lecturers scheduled for each course.”
PACE collaborates with subject experts to provide lifelong learners with in-demand career skills. Courses and programs promote social mobility and develop a knowledgeable and agile workforce. CAPE, part of UC Merced’s political science program, leverages experiential learning to equip students with the knowledge and skills to navigate politics, policy and governance.
PACE Dean Annette Roberts Webb said: “The professional certificate reflects our commitment to expanding access to high‑quality, practice‑focused education that empowers today’s workforce. We’re proud to offer a pathway that supports civic leadership, career mobility, and informed participation in California’s future.”
For more about the Professional Certificate in California Government and Policy, visit this information and enrollment page or email pace@ucmerced.edu.
