Overview

Endorsed by the Public Affairs Association of Canada and the Government Relations Institute of Canada, this graduate certificate program features specialized practical government relations training that will prepare you for careers in government relations.

You will learn to work with organizations and clients to co-ordinate and support their efforts to monitor, analyze and shape government action on existing and proposed legislation and regulation.

Government relations professionals establish long term relationships with government policy makers, utilizing strategic planning, issue analysis, lobbying, and stakeholder engagement skills to shape public policy and regulatory issues.

Skills

Throughout this program you will develop the following skills:

• Issue analysis
• GR campaign planning and design
• Strategic communications
• Stakeholder management
• Ethical and regulatory requirements
• Enhanced presentation techniques
• Basic research skills

Note: Admission to the Government Relations program is available for the Fall intake only. You must begin the program in the Fall term.

Important Information for New and Returning Students

Declaration is required for enrolment in this program. Program declaration is the process of identifying the program you plan to complete and graduate with.

Declaring your program helps ensure your academic record accurately reflects your educational goals and supports your academic progression toward a credential.

By declaring your program, you'll be able to:

• Get priority access when enrolling in classes and have the best chance to build your ideal schedule by selecting from a variety of options, which could include day, evening and weekend classes.
• Plan your course schedule with confidence by understanding your program requirements and next steps.
• Access enhanced advising and academic supports tailored to your goals.
• Track your progress and benefit from a smooth path to graduation. 

New Students

For details about the program and how to apply as a declared student, please visit Seneca's updated Government Relations page.

Returning Students

Course registration for the Winter 2027 term for the part-time Government Relations program will move from this website to Seneca's Visual Schedule Builder (VSB) platform. You will be able to build your class schedule when open enrolment begins on Dec. 10, 2026. Watch your email for instructions.

Declare your program today
To declare your program, complete the Program Declaration form on Student Home.

1. From Student Home, select the Academic Records tile.
2. On the left-hand menu, select Program Related, then select Program Declaration.