ROYAL ROADS UNIVERSITY · CANADA
Graduate Certificate in Systems Leadership in Higher Education
Certificate · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€7k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Certificate
Level
- Flexible delivery: Choose between a fully online experience or a hybrid model with a one-week in-person residency.Delivery Model
- Expert Faculty: Learn from instructors with extensive experience shaping the higher education field.Faculty Expertise
- Practical Application: Focus on addressing real organizational and social challenges in higher education.Real-World Focus
- Career Advancement: Prepare for roles such as Associate Vice Presidents, Directors, and Deans.Career Outcomes
This graduate certificate program is designed for current and aspiring administrators in higher education who want to develop their leadership skills in policy, governance, and strategic planning. You will gain the ability to shape the future of colleges and universities by understanding national and international perspectives on higher education systems and how policies influence them. The program focuses on real organizational and social challenges, equipping you with the skills to make meaningful contributions at the administrative level.
Curriculum
The program consists of online courses taken one at a time over nine weeks, plus a mandatory introductory course on academic integrity. Each online course requires approximately 10-15 hours of work per week. The curriculum includes courses on higher education leadership, leading educational change, and systems thinking for strategic planning.
- Core Curriculum
- Introduction to Academic IntegrityITAI
- The LinkLRNTLNK
- Higher Education Leadership in Times of ChangeHEAL501
- Leading Educational Change in Higher Education EnvironmentsHEAL530
- Systems Thinking and Strategic Planning in Higher EducationHEAL550
Careers
Graduates are prepared to pursue leadership roles within higher education institutions.
- Associate Vice Presidents
- Directors
- Coordinators in student affairs
- Deans or chairs in enrolment services
- Leaders in marketing, recruitment, advancement and residence
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA four-year (or comparable) undergraduate degree from a recognized post-secondary institution.
Applications are assessed holistically on a case-by-case basis, considering academic credentials, work experience, and personal experience. **Standard Admission:** A minimum of three years of relevant, paid work experience within recognized higher education institutions, including some leadership experience. Emerging leaders with two or more years in a recent leadership or people management role, who demonstrate exceptional potential, are also encouraged to apply. **Flexible Admission:** A minimum of seven years work experience in higher education institutions and a minimum of three years of leadership experience.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition estimates shown are for the entire program: $10,806 CAD. All rates are subject to annual increase.
Tuition (home)Tuition estimates shown are for the entire program: $7,731 CAD. All rates are subject to annual increase.
LivingNot specified.
Tuition estimates are for the entire program and are subject to annual increase.
How to apply
1. Submit ApplicationComplete the online application form on the MyAdmin portal. Select the correct program offering (e.g., the MRU offering for the in-person residency).
2. Review and InterviewThe admissions team will review your profile. You may be invited for a brief discovery call to assess program fit.
3. Confirm EnrollmentUpon acceptance, you will receive an enrollment package with instructions for paying your deposit and securing your residency dates.