Civic Governance and Innovation Certificate
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-01-01 | - |
| 2024-05-01 | - |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
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
Overview:
University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) is a public university located in British Columbia, Canada. It offers a wide range of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, diplomas, and certificates. UFV is known for its commitment to accessibility and its focus on providing a student-centered learning experience.
Services Offered:
UFV provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Advising:
Guidance on program selection, course registration, and academic planning.Library:
Access to a vast collection of books, journals, and online resources.Student Services:
Support for student life, including financial aid, career counseling, and health and wellness services.IT Service Desk:
Technical support for students and faculty.Bookstore:
Purchase textbooks, course materials, and UFV merchandise.Shuttle Bus:
Transportation between UFV campuses and surrounding areas.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UFV offers a vibrant campus life with opportunities for students to engage in a variety of activities, including:
Clubs and Organizations:
Join student groups based on interests, hobbies, and career aspirations.Athletics:
Participate in varsity sports or recreational activities.Events:
Attend campus events, concerts, and workshops.Community Engagement:
Get involved in volunteer opportunities and community initiatives.Key Reasons to Study There:
Accessible and Inclusive Environment:
UFV is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive learning environment for all students.Student-Centered Approach:
The university prioritizes student success and provides personalized support.Diverse Programs:
A wide range of academic programs cater to various interests and career goals.Strong Faculty:
Experienced and dedicated faculty members provide high-quality instruction.Vibrant Campus Life:
Opportunities for students to connect with peers, explore their passions, and build a sense of community.Academic Programs:
UFV offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Agriculture:
Agricultural Science, Agriculture Management, Agriculture Technology, and various certificates.Aviation:
Aviation Diploma, Aviation Bachelor of Business Administration, and Integrated Studies with an Aviation theme.Business and Management:
Accounting, Applied Business Technology, Aviation Bachelor of Business Administration, Business Administration, Economics, Marketing and Sales, and various certificates.Computer Systems and Technology:
Architectural Drafting Technician, Automation and Robotics Technician, Computer Information Systems, Computing Science, Digital Manufacturing, Engineering Common Core, Engineering Physics, Geographic Information Systems, Library Information and Technology, Media Arts, and Data Analysis.Creative Arts and Design:
Creative Writing, Fine Arts, Graphic and Digital Design, Media and Communication Studies, Media Arts, Theatre, Visual Arts, and various diplomas.Earth and Environmental Sciences:
Agricultural Science, Environmental Studies, Biology, Geography, Physical Geography, and Geographic Information Systems.Education:
Adult Education, Early Childhood Education, Education, Educational Leadership and Mentorship, Integrated Learning Design, Mindfulness-Based Teaching and Learning, School and Community Support Worker, and Teaching English as a Second Language.Graduate Studies:
Criminal Justice, Educational Leadership and Mentorship, Migration and Citizenship, Mindfulness-Based Teaching and Learning, Program Evaluation, and Social Work.Health Sciences and Services:
Certified Dental Assistant, Child Life and Community Health, Health Care Assistant, Kinesiology, Nursing, and Practical Nursing.History and Culture:
Applied Ethical and Political Philosophy, Art History, Arts, Creative Writing, Diaspora Studies, English, French, History, Indigenous Studies, Language Proficiency, Latin American Studies, Liberal Arts, Philosophy, Stó:lō Studies, and Theatre.Indigenous Studies:
Indigenous Studies, Social Service Worker (Indigenous Focus), and Stó:lō Studies.Interdisciplinary Programs:
Diaspora Studies, Early Modern Studies, General Studies, Global Development Studies, Graphic Design, India-Canada Studies, Indigenous Studies, Integrated Learning Design, Integrated Studies, Latin American Studies, Peace and Conflict Studies, and various certificates.Media and Communications:
Arts, Communications, Creative Writing, English, Essentials of Journalism, French, Graphic and Digital Design, Language Proficiency, Liberal Arts, Media and Communication Studies, Media Arts, Media Literacy, and Professional Communications Essentials.Office Administration:
Applied Business Technology, Advanced Medical Office Assistant, Bookkeeping for Small Business, Dental Office Receptionist, Legal Administrative Assistant, Medical Office Assistant, Nursing Unit Clerk, Records Management, and Veterinary Administrative Assistant.Legal and Criminal Justice:
Criminal Justice, Political Science, Legal Administrative Assistant, Paralegal, and various diplomas.Sciences:
Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemistry, Computing Science, Engineering Common Core, Engineering Physics, Geographic Information Systems, Mathematics & Statistics, Physical Geography, Physics, Data Analysis, Science, and various diplomas.Social Work & Human Services:
Child and Youth Care, Diaspora Studies, Early Childhood Education, Psychology, School and Community Support Worker, Social Service Worker, Social Work, and various diplomas.Society, Politics, and Policy:
Applied Ethical and Political Philosophy, Arts, Criminal Justice, Economics, Geography, Global Development Studies, International and Development Studies, Liberal Arts, Peace and Conflict Studies, Political Science, Program Evaluation, Psychology, and Sociology.Trades:
Architectural Drafting Technician, Collision Repair and Refinish, Automation and Robotics Technician, Automotive Service, Cabinetmaking, Carpentry, Culinary Arts, Digital Manufacturing, Electrician, Electronics Technician, Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation, Plumbing and Piping, Trades Management, and Welding.Upgrading:
Adult Basic Education, English Language Studies, and Workplace TASK.Other:
UFV is situated on the traditional territory of the Stó:lō peoples. The university acknowledges and respects the Stó:lō's historical and cultural connection to the land.
Entry Requirements:
Domestic Students:
- Students can enter the program without prior university credits.
- Completion of CIVI 200 (Evidence-Based Decision Making) is a prerequisite for other courses in the program.
- The courses complement provincial professional training programs in local government and public administration.
- Students who have completed Municipal Administration Training Institute (MATI) or Public Administration courses at other institutions can build on this prior training when completing UFV's CGI program.
- Entrance requirements may be subject to change.
