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.
Throughout this program you will develop the following skills:
This program offers the option to complete a work term, providing valuable hands-on experience in your field of study. If you are interested in completing a work term, apply to the PROGRAMNAME program.
If you select the work term stream you will have the opportunity to participate in a work term(s) if eligibility requirements are maintained. You 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, you will receive guidance and support through in-class career workshops and one-on-one coaching to help prepare for the work term. Additional fees are required for those participating in the optional work term stream, regardless of success in securing a work position. For more information, see fee details.
| The work term must be completed in person. |
| Start in | Location | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Sept. 2026 | Online | Open |
Availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.
| Start in | Location | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Sept. 2026 | Online | Open |
Availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.
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.
International students applying for a Post‑Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Studying online will impact your PGWP eligibility. Please review the in‑person requirements related to PGWP eligibility before choosing your program and course delivery.
Graduates of the program can explore the following career options:
AMCTO
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.
Individuals who have already completed MAP, MAFP or other courses through the AMCTO, or those with significant municipal work experience, may be eligible for course exemptions through Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition.
Town of Stouffville
Seneca’s partnership with the Town of Stouffville provides PAD students with hands‑on, career‑focused learning through the program’s Work Integrated Project course. Stouffville serves as the host municipality, giving you the opportunity to work directly with municipal partners to conduct research, analyze real‑world challenges and develop evidence‑based recommendations that support local government innovation and workforce development.
This is where university meets college. Where theory meets practice. Where ambition meets flexibility.
Graduate career ready and world ready. This program has an optional work term to help you hone essential skills for the workplace.
Earn credit for previous studies, work experience or training through Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition and transfer credits.
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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.”
Partnership brings hands-on public sector learning to Stouffville while strengthening training for future public administrators
