How To Become a City Manager

If you are still in high school and considering a career in city management, you can benefit from taking classes that emphasize communication skills and critical thinking. Courses in humanities, economics, accounting, law and governance are all good options. Joining the debate club is also worth considering, as is pursuing internship positions in public organizations, including nonprofit groups.

After high school, you should plan on earning at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Many city managers hold a bachelor’s degree in areas such as public administration, political science or business administration.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Earning a graduate degree isn’t always a requirement to become a city manager, but there is an increase of individuals entering the role with a master’s degree in public administration or a related field, according to the International City/County Management Association (ICMA).^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Graduate certificates can help advance your knowledge in specific areas that are relevant to your career. For city managers, earning a certificate in project management or leadership can provide you with the opportunity to develop key skills in managing people and projects, such as city programs.

In addition to earning your degree, you should plan to gain hands-on experience through internships or apprenticeships. While in college, look for opportunities to work on projects and develop your skills in areas such as leadership, management and problem-solving. Your college professors and career services representatives are great resources for finding internship opportunities.

A city manager isn’t an entry-level role, even for individuals who hold a graduate public administration degree. You should plan on gaining work experience within a city department or other public organization after graduation. City managers often start their careers in administrative or public policy positions, such as a budget or management analyst. Serving as an assistant city manager is also a common steppingstone before becoming a city manager.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Local government managers, such as city managers, are often members of the ICMA, which hold its members to a set of ethical standards of honesty and integrity beyond the requirements of the law. City managers may also earn the designation of “ICMA Credentialed Manager” if they meet certain education, experience and professional development requirements.^{(See disclaimer 2)}