Political Management
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Application Deadline: February 1 (Deadline for Full-Time Applications with Entrance Awards)
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Length: 1 Year Full-Time and 2 Years Part-Time
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Degrees: Master of Political Management
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Entry Terms: Fall
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Pathways: Coursework
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Experiential Learning: Internship
The Clayton H. Riddell Graduate Program in Political Management is an intensive master’s degree program designed to provide a professional foundation for students who will go on to leadership roles in political offices, parties, non-governmental organizations or firms that specialize in government relations, communications or public opinion research. The premier program of its kind in Canada, the Master of Political Management (MPM) program has helped political professionals accelerate their careers since it launched in 2011.
Capital Advantage
The program takes full advantage of Carleton’s location in the nation’s capital and access to Parliament Hill. Students hear from the most senior leaders in Canadian politics and government, including former prime ministers, cabinet ministers, members of Parliament, and deputy ministers. Senior political advisers, past and present, are involved as program instructors, Fellows, mentors to students and as alumni of the program. This access to the professionals at the centre of politics and government is one of the many components that make this program unique in Canada.
Joining a Community of Professional Practice
We provide our students unmatched opportunities to build vital connections with guest speakers, program Fellows and professionals working in and around politics in Canada. Our 300+ program alumni, who have gone on to leadership roles, are also available to offer advice and support to new MPM students. All faculty and instructors in the program bring practical experience in a wide range of roles in Canadian politics, government and public policy to their classrooms, ensuring that each course is focused on the practical knowledge, skills and ethics needed to be successful in the real world. The capstone required 375 hour practicum placement for all MPM students creates another opportunity for students to build their professional networks and make the transition from campus to workplace.
When students enter the MPM program, they are entering a growing community of professional practice in Canadian politics. Our graduates go on to work for members of Parliament, senators, cabinet ministers, government relations firms, industry associations, and non-governmental organizations.
Integrated Work and Learning
Successful applicants for full-time studies who apply before the February 1 deadline may be eligible to receive generous entrance scholarships. These awards are not conditional on working as a Teaching Assistant, allowing MPM students to fully immerse themselves in the courses, program events and opportunities in the political environment of Ottawa. Registered students also have access to financial support for experiential learning and are regularly in demand by local employers who have come to recognize the MPM program as a source for highly-skilled talent with the know-how to succeed in the demanding environments of politics and government.
Contributing to Knowledge Creation
While the MPM program is a professional program, the core faculty are also leading scholars who are at the forefront of research on political staff in Canada, the evolution political leadership in Canada, and the intersection of politics and Canadian public policy.
Application Information
Visit our Apply page for complete information on how to submit an application to Carleton University.