Certificate in Town Gown Relations Level I
A collaborative relationship between the community (“town”) and the local college or university (“gown”) enhances the overall quality of life for everyone involved. However, challenges such as local budget cuts, off-campus student conduct, and campus expansion can strain town–gown relations. By initiating dialogue and opening lines of communication between campuses and their neighbors, communities can foster positive relationships grounded in a shared understanding of the roles each plays—or can play—in promoting a healthy, thriving environment.
Increase your town-gown expertise and expand your professional skills with the ITGA Certificate in Town-Gown Relations, offered by the International Town-Gown Association (ITGA.) This course will help you manage and advance relationships and problem solve issues between colleges and universities and their host communities.
The program will begin with an orientation on March 4, followed by six weeks of online instruction. Classes will meet Wednesdays from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (EST), starting March 11 and concluding on April 15. For questions, contact
Purpose
The purpose of this program is twofold:
- To help all stakeholders understand and address complex challenges and processes associated with city and university relationships; and
- To identify, foster, and promote the skills necessary for the effective development of collaborative partnerships and alliances throughout college towns.
Benefits
- Development of a deeper understanding of the issues that strain town-gown relationships so they can be strengthened.
- Development of skills to identify collaborative partnerships and practical solutions that benefit all “sides” of town-gown issues.
- Networking with and learning amongst colleagues in communities around the country and internationally that are working to improve town-gown relations.
- Cultivation of professional excellence and opportunities for career advancement. Establish your standing as a town-gown professional.
Program Overview
This 12-hour class consists of six two-hour virtual sessions that will meet online via Zoom on Wednesdays, starting in March 2026 from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
Each two-hour module will have a specifically focused topic presented via a combination of presentations, panel discussions, activities, and group discussions. In addition, as part of the coursework, you will examine a challenge specific to your town or institution and work through options and solutions.
Designed For
The program is designed for:
- University/college professionals
- City/county officials, and staff
- Community leaders
- Undergraduate and graduate students interested in town-gown relations, public service, political science, and other field
- Over 400 professionals have completed the Certificate program since 2012, representing the US, UK and Canada.