Advanced Certificate
in Local Authority Administration (NACLAA I)
Part-time, online/in-class blended study tailored for:
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municipal administrators
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municipal clerks
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legislative assistants
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utility clerks
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accountants
Our instructors are academics and practitioners from across the country who are experts in their field
This is a long-running and award-winning program that consists of two fully online certificates: NACLAA Level I and NACLAA Level II (primarily designed for municipal administrators holding or aspiring to higher-level positions).
Courses in both certificates focus on concepts, structures, and processes that define local government administration. Students are provided with the theoretical and practical knowledge that is essential for success working in local authority administration. Our instructors are academics and practitioners from across the country who are experts in their field.
The NACLAA Level I program is suited for entry to medium-level municipal administrators who are interested in professional development and career advancement. Individuals who are exploring career options in local government or transitioning into the field would also find this program advantageous.

The broad scope of the information provided helps you understand most aspects of local government operations.
National Advanced Certificate in Local Authority Administration Level I student
The coursework was very relatable. I found that all of the courses were applicable to my day-to-day function at work.
National Advanced Certificate in Local Authority Administration Level I student

Gain a broader understanding and explore theories of the local government structure and its policies and procedures.
Identify and analyze community issues relevant to Canadian municipalities.
Build knowledge and enhance skills in critical areas such as finance, leadership, municipal law, sustainability, and public administration.
Network with municipal administrators from across the country, sharing experiences and ideas either online or in person.
CLGM designation accreditation opportunity
A note about COVID-19 measures
If you see a program on our website announced as an in-person or downtown Edmonton offering, please disregard the format—but not the program. Fall & Winter courses have been converted to remote delivery platforms. Register for a course online or apply to a program via email, and keep learning!
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University of Alberta parchment in as little as 2 years
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Pay as you go
Earn an Advanced Certificate
in Local Authority Administration (NACLAA I)
This program is currently open for enrolment—apply now
8 courses needed to graduate with this UAlberta Advanced Certificate.
Complete all five
Complete 117 hours of electives. Online:
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EXIAPP 8171
• 40 hrs -
EXLGP 8207
• 39 hrs -
EXLGP 8213
• 39 hrs -
EXLGP 8206
• 39 hrs -
EXLGP 8208
• 39 hrs -
EXLGP 8212
• 39 hrs
In-class:
Enrichment Courses
(not for credit)
You can register for a course without applying and enrolling in the program. If later you decide to apply for the full program, the course you’ve taken will be applied toward your Advanced Certificate.
Enrolling in the program is a requirement if you want to earn the certificate. You may apply for admission as you start your studies or, if you prefer, after you have taken one or two courses.
To qualify for the program, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience in municipal government is considered an asset.
If you have successfully completed a course from a recognized post-secondary institution within the last eight years that is applicable to the NACLAA Level I program, you may request a course exemption.
Students who hold the Certificate in Manitoba Municipal Administration (CMMA) or the University of Regina’s Certificate in Local Government Authority (CLGA) will receive transfer credits toward the NACLAA Level I certificate.
Accreditation Opportunity: CLGM designation
Completion of both NACLAA programs (Level I and Level II) fulfills the educational requirements for the Certified Local Government Manager (CLGM) designation in Alberta.
The CLGM is conferred by the Society of Local Government Managers (SLGM), the professional organization that regulates the practices of local government managers and ensures its members act in the local government’s best possible interest.
Consult with the SLGM prior to enrolling in any of our elective in-class courses to make sure that they meet the requirements for the CLGM professional designation. For example, note that our EXLDR in-class elective courses do not meet the current course requirements for the CLGM designation.
The NACLAA Level I program is comprised of five core courses (39 hours each) and 117 instructional hours of electives, for a total of 312 instructional hours. Designed for part-time study, it can generally be completed within two to three years.
The program is fully available online; alternatively, students may choose to take a selection of face-to-face courses as part of their elective requirements.
Local Government and Public Administration Professionalism are recommended as the first courses in NACLAA Level I. There is no recommended order for the remaining courses. Electives can be taken at any time throughout the program, provided that their prerequisites are met.
A cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 is required to obtain the certificate (3.5 or higher earns a certificate with distinction).
Once you are admitted, you can verify your program requirements by logging into the University of Alberta’s student portal, Bear Tracks, to view your Academic Advisement.
- An application fee of $100 is required for admission into the program.
- Tuition is paid on a course-by-course basis as you register for your classes.
- Courses are GST-exempt.
- Some courses require a textbook at an additional cost.
- Eligible for the Canada-Alberta Job Grant.
- Corporate multi-registration packages are available for most Extension courses. Contact us at excorp@ualberta.ca for preferred pricing.
Bursaries and funding opportunities
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