The MAES program in Local Economic Development was established in 1988 out of a recognized need for a graduate program in which both aspiring and practising economic development professionals could pursue advanced education focused on their field of activity.
It is the only Master's program in Canada devoted solely to local economic development. The Local Economic Development program admits only 15-20 graduate students each year and is designed to prepare students for careers in local and/or regional economic development.
The academic program has evolved from its traditional industrial development base to include a broad range of local development issues including:
The program offers a balance between the theory and the practice of local economic development. The academic program consists of eight one-term courses plus a research paper. The applied dimension of the program is emphasized in the core seminars by interacting with economic development professionals on a weekly basis and by a four-month internship.
Please consult the LED handbook (PDF) for more information.
