Civic Governance and Innovation Certificate

Program Overview

The Civic Governance and Innovation Certificate program at UFV equips professionals in BC's municipal and regional government sectors with advanced skills and knowledge for navigating complex issues, fostering collaborative approaches, developing effective communication strategies, and cultivating risk-taking and innovative mindsets within local government settings. Delivered in a hybrid format over 2-3 years, the program includes six courses, additional learning experiences, and a capstone project. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in local government, non-governmental organizations, and other sectors related to public service delivery.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Civic Governance and Innovation (CGI) certificate program at UFV is designed for professionals in BC's municipal and regional government sectors who wish to enhance their understanding and engagement in innovation and change management within local government structures. The program's primary objectives include:

• equipping participants with advanced skills and knowledge for navigating complex issues facing local governments, ranging from technological advancements to environmental adaptation
• fostering collaborative approaches to public service delivery
• developing effective communication strategies for diverse stakeholders
• cultivating risk-taking and innovative mindsets within local government settings

Program Outline:

Structure & Schedule:

• Format: Part-time
• Delivery: Hybrid (combination of online and in-person courses)
• Duration: 2-3 years
• Location: Abbotsford (Clearbrook Centre)
• Start dates: January, May, September
• Course requirements: Completion of 6 courses offered on a rotational basis

Modules & Descriptions:

CIVI 200 - Evidence-Based Decision Making:

equips participants with critical analysis skills for evaluating data and informing evidence-based decision-making processes

CIVI 202 - Civic Governance in British Columbia and the Fraser Valley:

delves into the historical, political, and social context of local government structures within the province

CIVI 302 - Changemaking in Local Government Systems:

explores strategies and tools for fostering innovative practices and overcoming organizational inertia

CIVI 311 - How Cities Work:

provides an in-depth examination of urban governance structures and their impact on local decision-making processes

CIVI 312 - Risk Tolerance and Capacity Building in Local Governance:

cultivates risk-management strategies and fosters individual and organizational capacity for addressing complex challenges

CIVI 400 - Capstone Project in Civic Governance and Innovation:

culminates the program with a research project addressing real-world challenges in local government, drawing on knowledge and skills gained throughout the program

Additional Learning Experiences:

• Webinars
• Workshops

Careers:

• Employment opportunities: Local government, non-governmental organizations, public works sectors, water and waste management, urban planning, real estate, and more
• Benefits for potential employers: Improved employee engagement, increased innovative capacity, and enhanced risk management capabilities

Other:

• Tuition: Approximately $6,500, including fees and textbooks (subject to change)
• Financial assistance: CIVI courses may be eligible for Board of Examiners scholarships
• Entrance requirements: Open to students with or without prior university credits; CIVI 200 serves as the prerequisite for other courses
• Textbooks: Available through UFV Bookstore