This micro-credential counts towards the completion of the Professional Development Certificate in Parliamentary Management or Parliamentary Governance

Over the past decade of providing training and skills development for legislators and parliamentary staff from around the world, McGill University has found that one issue overshadows the others: the role that parliaments play in the budget process, the way they assert their constitutional right to scrutinize, amend, and in some cases reject budgets as presented by governments. Having effective committees oversee budget formulation, approval, implementation, and audit is key. Yet legislators (and the staff supporting them) tell us they often feel that they lack the skills to effectively carry out their committee duties. 

This micro-credential is designed to meet that gap: to give legislators and staff the knowledge and skills they need to ensure effective oversight of public finance.

Both courses in this micro-credential are practical and interactive. The first examines the role that committees play in the work of parliament, and the factors that contribute to their success, or otherwise. Focus is placed on the “bread and butter” of committee work, namely the process of conducting inquiries, and the important role that committees play in terms of accountability and engagement. 

The second course provides a basis for a better understanding of core concepts, objectives, and issues in Public Financial Management (PFM) as they relate to the functions of the legislature. Particular focus is placed on the role of the legislature in the budget cycle: from providing input into the budget formulation, reviewing, approving, amending, or rejecting the budget to monitoring budget implementation and overseeing the audit of budget expenditures..  

Upon successful completion of the Micro-credential, you will receive an Attestation of Completion and a digital badge from the McGill University School of Continuing Studies.