Masters Certificate in Municipal Leadership

Serve the community more effectively in changing times.

Are you equipped to take up the challenge of the most senior-level leadership responsibilities facing your town, county, city or region?

The Masters Certificate in Municipal Leadership is the definitive municipal leadership and governance program in Canada. The rapidly changing cultural, economic and political climate requires today's municipal professional to make a paradigm shift in leadership style, strategy and operational performance. This program will equip professionals in the municipal sector to make transitions effectively and lead their municipality into the future.

PREREQUISITE: Participants should have a minimum of three years of management experience.


Masters Certificate
(Online - virtual live)

Program Dates:

Spring - Fall 2025
(April 23 - September 26, 2025)

Module 1: April 23 - 25, 2025 (3 full days)
Module 2: June 25 - 27, 2025 (3 full days)
Module 3: September 24 - 26, 2025 (3 full days)

9 days study over 5 months
+ supplementary readings
and course work

PROGRAM INFORMATION

Masters Certificate in Municipal Leadership Brochure

Fee: 
Full Masters Certificate: $9,850 CDN
(save $2,600 over the individual module price)

As Stand-Alone Modules:
$ 4,150 each 

Instructors: 
Various (see brochure for more details)

Time:
10:00 am - 5:00 pm (Atlantic Time)

 

Fee Information:

  • Fee includes program tuition and teaching materials
  • Full program fee is payable prior to start of program.
  • Our liability is limited to reimbursement of paid tuition fee.
  • Contact us about multiple registration discounts from one organization, or a convenient tuition payment plan.

Location: Online Virtual Classroom Format
Benefit by attending with other participants from across Canada! Delivered simultaneously by select University Executive Education Network partner schools, using the virtual classroom environment to recreate the in-class experience with:

  • Multi-modal presentation of materials
  • Engaging activities and interactive exchanges
  • Breakout discussions with the instructors and fellow participants

ZOOM Technical Requirements

  • An internet connection – broadband wired or wireless (3G or 4G/LTE)
  • Speakers and a microphone – built-in or USB plug-in or wireless Bluetooth
  • A webcam or HD webcam - built-in or USB plug-in
  • Note: Mobile devices such as a smartphone or tablet may be used but could limit the extent to which you can participate in some courses.

 

Program Content

MODULE 1: Essential of Municipal Leadership
(April 23 - 25, 2025)
The most important parameters of strong and effective leadership start with the internal makeup, self-awareness and character of the leader. This module serves as a foundation for the remainder of the program in Municipal Leadership - providing a personalized and unique lens through to advance your leadership journey.

  • The Art of Transformative Leadership:
  • Coaching and Mentoring:

MODULE 2: Strategic Municipal Leadership
(June 25 - 27, 2025)
Environmental awareness and response is a key component of effective and strategic leadership. This module builds on Module 1 by discussing advanced topics related specifically to strategic capacity, as experienced by Municipal Leaders.

  • Engaging Employees in Hybrid Environments
  • Managing Optics
  • Inter-Municipal Collaboration

MODULE 3: Future Proofing Municipalities
(September 24 - 26, 2025)
Strategic agility requires municipal leaders to envision a road ahead and chart practical and innovative roads to get there. This module focuses on how leaders can enhance their strategic innovation, as well as use current trends and technological disruptions to their benefit.

  • Leadership Agility and Strategic Mindset
  • SMART Cities and Technological Disruption
  • Using Big Data: Patterning and Decision Making

Capstone Project

Every year, Schulich Exec Ed will compile a list of important issues and challenges that the municipal sector currently faces. Each group will be asked to select one of the supplied topics. Through a detailed examination of the topic, using the contents of the program as a guide, groups will analyze the problem and propose perspectives and solutions.

Who Should Attend

Participants should have a minimum of three years of management experience. This program will benefit managers at all levels in the municipal sector including provincial government officials who work with municipalities. Participants include:

  • CAO / City Manager
  • Treasurers and Clerks
  • All Department Heads, Directors and Managers
  • Fire, Police, Public Health and Library Executives
  • High-potential staff who aspire to lead

 

This program is delivered in partnership with Schulich Executive Education Centre at York University.