Frequently Asked Questions

Program

What is the registration deadline?
Registration for each cohort typically ends one week before the beginning of each module. This gives students time to participate in the mandatory online orientation. Check the program website to learn when the next cohort will begin.

Are there requirements for registration?
Interested individuals must fill out a one-page online application and pay the registration fee.

What are the technical requirements for this program?
The online platform works on both Windows and Macintosh, on all browsers. All you need is an internet connection, a microphone, and speakers or earphones.

Do you have to be an ITGA member to attend the program?
No, you don’t have to be an ITGA member to attend the program. However, ITGA members receive a large discount for participating in the program.

What if I don’t want to register for the entire six-week program?
You can register for individual modules that capture your interest. However, the six-week program is designed to be taught as a complete curriculum and the pricing structure provides a significant discount for students who sign-up for the full program.

Who can I contact if I have any questions?
You can email Kim Griffo at kim@itgau.org or Beth Bagwell at beth@itgau.org if you have any questions about the program.

Do I need to purchase text books or other supplemental materials for each module?
Textbooks about town and gown are not available as of yet, therefore the program does not require students to purchase textbooks. However, depending on the instructor, students may still have to download content for out-of-module reading assignments.

Is there a final exam?
Yes. The final exam will be a cumulative test of the knowledge you’ve gained from attending both the required modules and the elective modules you’ve selected. You must pass the final exam to receive the certificate.

How do I receive my certificate?
Certificates will be mailed to the address students provided, or students can opt to receive their certificates during a ceremony at the ITGA Annual Conference.

How much time should I dedicate to the program outside of online module meetings?
The program is designed to meet the needs and accommodate the schedules of busy, working professionals. It is up to you to determine how much time you will spend in preparing for the modules, but expect no more than two hours a week outside each module.

How will my performance be evaluated?
A cumulative final exam will evaluate each student’s performance in the program. You must pass the final exam to receive the certificate.

What happens if I miss a module? Can I make it up?
Module sessions will be recorded for those who can’t attend the live instructor sessions. However, students are strongly encouraged to attend the live sessions to stimulate discussion and interact with other students in their cohort.

Will there be an opportunity to network with students in my cohort?
Yes. Once you register, you will gain exclusive access to students in your cohort. A discussion board will be open to exchange contact information or discuss best practices

Can I get academic credits or continuing education units (CEUs) for attending the program?
The ITGA Certificate Program in Town Gown Relations is not an academic credit or CEU-granting program. However, if you’re an undergraduate or graduate student, talk to your student advisor about the possibility of receiving academic credits for attending the program through independent study or equivalent modules.

Is the ITGA Certificate Program in Town-Gown Relations a Veteran-friendly program?
Yes! In appreciation of our military, Veterans and Active Duty Service Members who wish to attend the certificate program, regardless of their ITGA membership or their eligibility for the Post-9/11 GI Bill, qualify for the reduced ITGA-Member price. Be sure to attach a copy of your proof of military service (e.g., U.S. Uniformed Services ID Card or Veterans Organization Card) to your application.

Tuition and payment

When is the tuition deadline?
All fees are due upon registration.

Is there an application fee?
No, ITGA does not charge you for submitting an application to attend the program.

How is the payment handled if my employer or school will reimburse me for attending the program?
You are responsible for payment of your tuition upon enrollment. Reimbursements for tuition through a school or employer should be done directly with the student.

What does ITGA offer in terms of financial aid or payment plans?
ITGA does not offer financial aid or payment plans at this time. However, ITGA members pay a lower price than non-members.

I’m a student of a member academic institution. Can I attend the program with the ITGA member tuition rate?
Yes! Students of ITGA member institutions who are interested in town-gown relations are encouraged to attend the certificate program using the ITGA member rate.

I am an employee of an ITGA member city. Can I attend the program with the ITGA member tuition rate?
Yes! City or county workers employed by an ITGA member city are encouraged to attend the certificate program using the ITGA member rate.