Comparison of Canadian master's programs in public administration, public management and public policy

Sixteen Canadian master's programs of public administration, management and policy were compared in terms of institutional location, admission and degree requirements and compulsory curriculum. Only basic programs were included; joint degrees or specialized programs in specialized fields (like international or development administration) were omitted because they make comparison extremely difficult. Even the programs retained vary greatly in duration and content. Certain clusters of orientation and emphasis are evident. In comparison with the curriculum standards of the American National Association of Schools and Programs of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA), Canadian schools tend to emphasize policy at the expense of management.