Thomas Edison State University (TESU) has announced the launch of 15 new undergraduate certificates starting in January 2026. Approved by the University’s Board of Trustees in June, these targeted credentials are designed to serve as powerful, stackable pathways toward full degree completion while providing immediate value in the job market.
“These new certificates allow students to level up their skills and credentials in manageable, career-relevant increments,” said Dr. Merodie A. Hancock, president of TESU. “Whether a student is looking to reskill, upskill or complete a degree, these stackable pathways create flexible access to professional advancement.”
The certificates span high-demand fields across the humanities, behavioral sciences and public service, including:
• Political Science
• Mental Health
• Clinical and Forensic Psychology
• Social and Organizational Behavior
• Sociology
• Pre-Law (Law and Society)
• Forensic Psychology
• International Relations
• Public Safety
• Literature
• History
• Ethics
• Global Studies
• Teacher Leadership
Each certificate is designed to function as both a standalone credential and a stepping-stone toward associate or bachelor’s degrees, allowing students to build their academic portfolio one credential at a time.
In addition to the new certificates, the Board approved a revision to the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program. Beginning with students admitted in the September 2025 term, the total credit requirement for the MPA will be reduced from 36 to 30 credits. The change is designed to improve accessibility and affordability while maintaining the rigor and impact of the program’s core competencies in alignment with the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration universal required competencies.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals with a master’s degree in public administration can expect strong employment prospects with job growth of 6 percent over the next 10 years in occupations that generally require an MPA, including policy managers, administrative analyst, directors of governmental operations, economic developers, and nonprofit executives. The median earning for these jobs is currently $106,880.
“By redesigning the MPA program, we’ve modernized the degree and broadened access for working professionals to develop the public leadership and administrative skills necessary for driving lasting and positive impact within the communities they serve,” said Dr. Malcolm Oliver, dean of the John S. Watson School for Public Service.
For more information, visit www.tesu.edu.
Merodie Hancock,
