Masters Certificate in Public Sector Leadership
Leading effectively in public service requires a unique strategic vision and skill set
The ways in which public sector executives prepare to lead change today dictates the effectiveness of governance frameworks in the future. The Masters Certificate in Public Sector Leadership is a government training program designed to equip today’s government and public-sector leaders with the skills and competencies critical to establishing frameworks of governance that will encourage innovation and ensure best practices throughout their organizations.
Program at a Glance
Three modules that can be taken in any order:
Strategy in Public Sector Leadership
- Begins: February 22, 2027
- Registration Deadline: February 8, 2027
- Delivery Method: Synchronous Online & Hybrid
- Module fee: $4150 + HST
Disruption in Public Sector Leadership
- Begins: April 19, 2027
- Registration Deadline: April 5, 2027
- Delivery Method: Synchronous Online & Hybrid
- Module fee: $4150 + HST
Character in Public Sector Leadership
- Begins: June 21, 2027
- Registration Deadline: June 7, 2027
- Delivery Method: Synchronous Online & Hybrid
- Module fee: $4150 + HST
Overview
This public-sector training program stimulates insights and builds understanding rapidly through an action-learning environment. Participants enjoy lively discussions, examine real life case studies, and engage within breakout sessions across three impactful learning modules — all while being guided by public sector leaders who are unsurpassed in their expertise and experience. The resulting blend of ‘soft’ skills and ‘hard’ expertise allows public sector professionals to fully engage with all stakeholders in the process of effective public management.
This program is run in partnership with the Schulich School of Business at York University.

Topics and Dates
Module 1
| Module 1 : Strategy in Public Sector Leadership | Winter 2027 Dates | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Building Trust and Credibility as a Leader (Hybrid) | February 22, 2027 | 9:00am – 4:00pm |
| Inspiring & Motivating Teams in a Unionized Environment (Online) | February 23, 2027 | 9:00am – 12:00pm |
| Leading Change in the Public Sector (Online) | February 23, 2027 | 1:00pm – 4:00pm |
| Simulation: The Directionless Team (Online) | February 24, 2027 | 9:00am – 4:00pm |
Module 2
| Module 2: Disruption in Public Sector Leadership | Spring 2027 Dates | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Practical Innovation in Government (or Public Sector) (Hybrid) | April 19, 2027 | 9:00am – 4:00pm |
| Systems Thinking and “Whole of Government” Approach (Online) | April 20, 2027 | 9:00am – 12:00pm |
| Using AI to Improve Decisions, Services & Outcomes (Online) | April 20, 2027 | 1:00pm – 4:00pm |
| Simulation: Fixing a Failing Digital Initiative (Online) | April 21, 2027 | 9:00am – 4:00pm |
Module 3
| Module 3: Character in Public Sector Leadership | Summer 2027 Dates | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Executive Presence & Working with Other Leaders (Online) | June 21, 2027 | 9:00am – 4:00pm |
| Relationship Intelligence in Government (Hybrid) | June 22, 2027 | 9:00am – 12:00pm |
| Strategic Alliances & Political Acuity (Hybrid) | June 22, 2027 | 1:00pm – 4:00pm |
| Simulation: Gaining Alignment in a Divided System (Online) | June 23, 2027 | 9:00am – 4:00pm |
Reasons to Enrol
9 days of study
Rich learning in just 9 days of study over spread over 7 months, with supplemental readings and coursework outside of the classroom
Advancing your career
Advance your critical thinking and communication skills
World-class instruction
Accomplished faculty drawn from government and the public sector
Flexible enrollment
Take only the modules you need or take the full Masters Certificate
Connect and network with industry experts
Connect with and learn from experienced peers and leaders in the public sector
Stand out from the crowd
Gain sought-after leadership skills specific to the public sector and make a meaningful difference in your role
Who Should Attend
- Professionals in the public and not-for-profit sectors, who are looking to increase the effectiveness of their department or agency
- Mid-career and senior leaders at the federal, provincial or municipal levels of government