Alberta is not only the economic engine of Canada, it plays a major role in shaping public policy across the country. The University of Calgary’s School of Public Policy is Canada’s most cited policy school, both in traditional media and publications.

The Alberta’s government’s $9-million investment into the University of Calgary’s School of Public Policy master of public policy program will support up to 76 students annually.

“The School of Public Policy offers the highest quality of education, with exclusive access to some of Canada’s top policy experts, and strong career outcomes. Our government is proud to invest in its future and continue to showcase the high-quality educational opportunities available in Alberta.”

Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Advanced Education

The master of public policy is a unique program in Alberta and Canada. Established in 2010, the program is widely recognized for its influential policy work and has been recognized as one of the world’s top policy schools.

“I am proud that the School of Public Policy has received this unprecedented support from the Alberta government to ensure its continuing contribution to training future policymakers. We have hundreds of graduates in senior executive positions of public, non-profit and private institutions who have benefited from the training they received as students in our graduate and executive programs.”

Jack Mintz, founding director and president’s fellow, School of Public Policy, University of Calgary

“This investment will ensure that we remain the top-rated public policy school in Canada. The research of our academics is crucial to good decision-making by business, NGOs and government. We appreciate this support for our researchers, teachers and future public policymakers.”

Gerald Chipeur, KC, director, board of management, University of Calgary School of Public Policy

Funding will be provided as an increase to the University of Calgary’s base operating grant through an agreement approved by the Alberta government and the University of Calgary’s board of governors.

Budget 2023 secures Alberta’s future by transforming the health-care system to meet people’s needs, supporting Albertans with the high cost of living, keeping our communities safe and driving the economy with more jobs, quality education and continued diversification.

Quick facts

  • The School of Public Policy opened in 2009 with strategic goals that it has consistently met since opening, including achieving recognition as one of the world’s top policy schools.
  • Since its creation, enrolment has nearly doubled because of the one-of-a-kind experience it provides. When it opened, the master of public policy program supported 40 students and has now grown to more than 75 students.
  • Its goal to train the best, most in-demand policy analysts in Canada and around the world, which aligns with the Alberta 2030: Building Skills for Jobs strategy to strengthen internationalization and build skills for jobs.