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Course Description

This course provides a basic understanding of public and local government finance. The course discusses the changing role and size of government, the budget process, issues relating to alternative service delivery, sources of revenue for local governments, fiscal relations among governments in Canada, and strategic financial thinking.

Who Should Take This Course?

Aimed at individuals interested in moving into higher level responsibilities in the local government field; our student body includes municipal government employees in planning, corporate services, economic development, operations, finance, and more.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

  • 🗸 Discuss the appropriate role of municipal government in the economy and in relation to other levels of government in Canada.
  • 🗸 Analyze the municipal budget process and the methods of forecasting revenue and expenditure budgets.
  • 🗸 Evaluate the various sources of municipal revenue, including the role of property taxes and user charges in financing municipal services.
  • 🗸 Examine the constitutional, legal, and institutional aspects of intergovernmental relations and the role of municipal government in the constitutional framework of Canada.
  • 🗸 Identify alternative service delivery options for the provision of municipal services and issues relating to municipal fiscal sustainability.

Notes
  • 🗸Fully online asynchronous course, accessible through CE Canvas, the University of Alberta’s eLearning management tool.
  • 🗸Participate in online discussions with peers from all over Canada and expand your professional network.
  • 🗸All learning materials are provided through CE Canvas.
  • 🗸This is one of five core courses required for the NACLAA Level I certificate.

Recommendations

Students intending to complete a program are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to lock in their course requirements.

Applies Towards the Following Programs
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Find a Section
Section Title
Local Government Finance
Language of Delivery
English
Type
In Person
Dates
Jan 12, 2026 to Apr 02, 2026
Delivery Options
Online - Asynchronous  
Course Fee(s)
Tuition non-credit $865.00
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