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
Public Administration (PAD)
Campus
Duration
2 Semesters (8 Months)Credential Awarded
Ontario College Graduate CertificateSchool
School of Arts & ScienceProgram 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.
About 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
Guaranteed Work Term – Town of Newmarket Partnership
Through a formal partnership with the Town of Newmarket, students who have successfully completed their first semester will enter a four-month, comprehensive policy project focused on solving current challenges faced by the municipality in the second (winter) semester. The PAD 280 - Work Integrated Project course is co-taught by faculty from Seneca Polytechnic and the Town. Upon completion, this unparalleled experience will equip students with the skills, knowledge and work experience required to succeed in the dynamic field of public administration.
Optional Work Term
Students meeting all academic requirements may have the opportunity to complete an additional optional work term(s) upon graduation. The work term(s) is similar in length to an academic semester and typically involves full-time work hours that are paid during the summer semester. You will be supported by Work-Integrated Learning specialists in your job preparation and search. Additional fees are required for those participating in the optional work term stream regardless of success in securing a work position.
Program Availability
Learn more: Seneca’s program delivery options and how courses in this program will be delivered each term.
| Start in | Location | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Sept. 2025 | Online | Open |
This program is only open to Canadian applicants.
To view the list of programs available to international applicants, please visit the international programs availability page.
Please note that availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.
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.
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.”