Throughout this program you will develop the following skills:
- Leadership roles in public administration
- Policy analyst
- Project management officer
- Administrative officer
- Legislative co-ordinator
- Constituency assistant
Info :
Full-Time Support Staff are on strike. Classes will continue and our campuses remain open.
Campus
Delivery
OnlineDuration
2 Semesters (8 Months)Study Option
Full-timeCredential
Ontario College Graduate CertificateSchool
School of Arts & ScienceAbout the Program
This eight-month graduate certificate program provides you with the multi-disciplinary skills and experience required to become or grow your career as a public sector employee.
You will receive advanced training in communications, policy analysis, project management, information technology, finance, governance, leadership and dispute resolution. The program was developed by municipal government professionals and is regularly updated to ensure you have the necessary skills to be successful upon graduation and throughout your career.
You will learn in a small class setting from expert faculty who have a variety of experience in the public sector.
Skills
- Research
- Policy analysis
- Critical thinking
- Writing, presenting and problem-solving for a public sector audience
- Financial planning and analysis
- Project planning
- A comprehensive understanding of the Canadian government structure with an emphasis on the Ontario municipal sector
Work Experience
Optional Work Term
This program offers the option to complete a work term, providing valuable hands-on experience in your field of study. Students interested in completing a work term should apply to the PROGRAMNAME program.
Students who select the work term stream will have the opportunity to participate in a work term(s) if eligibility requirements are maintained. Students will have the flexibility to transfer to the non-work term stream at any time. The work term(s) is similar in length to an academic semester and is typically a full-time position that may be paid or unpaid. The work term job search is student-driven and participation in the work term stream does not guarantee that a work position will be secured. However, students will receive guidance and support through in-class career workshops and one-on-one coaching to help prepare for the work term.
Program Availability
| Start in | Location | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Sept. 2025 | Online | Closed |
Availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.
| Start in | Location | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Sept. 2025 | Online | Closed |
Availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.
Program and Course Delivery
This program is offered online. Students learn remotely and do not need to come to campus. Online learning can be synchronous – scheduled class time with professors – or asynchronous – no scheduled class time, with all learning independent. The optional work term is in-person or online.
Learn more: Seneca’s program delivery options and how courses in this program will be delivered each term.
Your Career
Graduates of the program can explore the following career options:
Affiliations/Associations
Seneca's partnership with the Association of Municipal Managers, Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario (AMCTO) will allow you to complete and receive certificates of completion for AMCTO's Municipal Administration Program (MAP) and Municipal Accounting and Finance Program (MAFP).
Completion of the MAP program is one of the necessary prerequisites to apply for the Certified Municipal Officer (CMO) designation with the AMCTO.
Transfer Credit and Recognition for Prior Learning
Individuals who have completed MAP, MAFP and other courses through the AMCTO as well as those with significant municipal work experience are eligible for course exemptions. In addition, students with previous postsecondary courses may also be eligible.
The Seneca Polytechnic Difference
This is where university meets college. Where theory meets practice. Where ambition meets flexibility.
Experiential Learning
Graduate career ready and world ready. This program has an optional work term to help you hone essential skills for the workplace.
The Service Hub
The Service Hub is your one-stop source of information about everything from registering and paying fees to student services and life on campus.
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Career Support
Seneca Works offers students and graduates lifelong access to an exclusive job board, career coaching, networking and more.
Student Life
Join a diverse and welcoming community of peers and supporters, offering you a blend of academic excellence and vibrant urban life.
What Our Graduates Say
Janean Currie
Graduate, Public Administration
“The Public Administration program is a comprehensive learning experience providing invaluable opportunities to interact and work directly with municipal professionals. The professors are knowledgeable, dedicated and invested in their student's success, offering incredible guidance and support. Hands-on experience with real municipal issues gave me the skills required to succeed in the municipal sector. The flexible approach to course delivery also allowed me to balance work and other personal obligations.”