MA/MS in Political Management

The Master of Political Management (MPM) is a professional master's degree offered through Carleton University's Clayton H. Riddell Graduate Program in Political Management, based in Ottawa near Parliament Hill. Launched in 2011, the program prepares graduates for roles in political offices, parties, government relations firms, and non-governmental organizations. Senior political practitioners, including former prime ministers, cabinet ministers, and members of Parliament, are involved as instructors, program Fellows, and mentors. All students complete a required 375-hour practicum placement as a capstone component. The program is offered on a 1-Year Accelerated Path or a 2-Year Professional Path, both with Fall admission. Core faculty conduct research on political staff, political leadership, and the intersection of politics and public policy in Canada. Graduates have gone on to work as political staff for members of Parliament, senators, and cabinet ministers, and in government relations firms, industry associations, and non-governmental organizations.