Through our practical, up-to-date programs, Capilano University is helping local government employees throughout BC achieve their career goals, and local government employers meet their succession, retention and recruitment needs.

Why study public administration at CapU?

Public administration (PADM) courses at CapU are designed for people who work for municipalities, regional districts, First Nations governments, improvement districts and supporting agencies in B.C.

Our graduates are independent learners, thinkers and doers who contribute to their communities.

PADM courses combine relevant and practical program content with expert faculty and interactive, in-person learning to take your career to the next level.

Our partners

PADM programs and courses are developed in consultation with senior local government professionals and partner organizations, including the Local Government Management Association of BC (LGMA) and the provincial Board of Examiners.

Other key partners include the Municipal Finance Authority of BC, the Planning Institute of BC and Civicinfo BC, which provide invaluable support for program development and promotion.

Featured programs

The education you need to boost your career

Fall 2025 & Spring 2026 Courses and Program Information

Training areas

  • Advanced communications
  • Leadership
  • Local government services
  • Local government administration
  • Management fundamentals
  • Municipal finance
  • Municipal law

Learn in collaborative seminars

Through seminars, course readings and assignments, you'll examine a wide range of current practices in local government and develop your critical thinking, writing and presentation skills, helping you become a more effective leader, manager and agent for change.

Gain expertise from our experienced faculty

For more than 25 years, the local government programs at CapU have been taught by senior local government practitioners who enjoy sharing the knowledge they've gained from decades of experience on the job.

Our vision

To be the first choice in professional development for B.C. local government employers and employees, offering excellence in educational experience and helping professionals achieve their career goals.

Connect with us

Find us on LinkedIn

Visit the School of Public Administration on LinkedIn for more info about programs and upcoming courses.

Follow us on LinkedIn

Our faculty

Our faculty are experienced instructors and professionals who have held senior positions in local government.

Find our faculty

MATI courses

Find out more about the MATI® (Municipal Administration Training Institute) courses we offer.

View MATI Courses