About Us
Be where policy drives progress.
"In today's political and economic turmoil, Canada more than ever needs the clear, practical solutions our network of academics, fellows and partners can offer to solve national challenges and reestablish Canada's place in the world."
Martha Hall Findlay
Director, School of Public Policy & James S. and Barbara A. Palmer Chair in Public Policy
About the School
The School of Public Policy exists to help solve some of Canada’s most pressing economic and societal challenges. We combine the responsiveness of a leading think tank with the academic rigour of one of Canada’s leading research universities.
Canada is facing generational challenges, and recommendations for good policy decisions require the best and most complete gathering of facts and evidence available, from anywhere in the world, and application of the most objective, non-partisan, non-ideological analysis possible. And then we must communicate and engage — the best research, the best analysis and the best recommendations don’t do any good unless they reach decision-makers, directly or via the public.
At our campus in downtown Calgary. students are part of a diverse community of faculty, fellows, alumni and a lifelong network of peers and mentors. Our alumni are found in leadership positions in the private, public and non-profit sectors across Canada and around the world.
Charting Our Course
Annual Report 2025
2025 was a year of transition and achievement for the School of Public Policy.
Charting Our Course was chosen as the theme for this annual report to reflect the need to adapt in a fast-changing world while also establishing a path forward for the School. Learn more about our accomplishments and activities in 2025.
Our History
In 2007, Calgary’s forward-looking business community saw the need and potential for the success of a policy school at the University of Calgary, with the project backed by Calgary lawyer and philanthropist James Palmer, former Governor and Chair of the Canadian Tax Foundation and its first Chair from Western Canada.
Founded in 2008 with support from southern Alberta’s Palmer family and economist Jack Mintz as its first Director, the School made its name providing practical, real-world advice on economic and fiscal policy, international trade policy, health and social policy, energy policy and other areas.
Today, we provide recommendations for more effective decision making in those areas as well as a new focus for us, Canadian governance policy.
Our Students
Graduate education at the School of Public Policy is defined by relevance, rigour and real-world application. Grounded in interdisciplinary learning and informed by today's most urgent global and national issues, our graduate programs shape leaders who think critically, act ethically and deliver results.
Our People
-
Advisory Council
Provides strategic advice, external perspectives and guidance to support the School’s mission of excellence in education; research, analysis and recommendations; and communications and engagement.
-
Leadership & Staff
From strategic direction to strategic operations, our team collaborates to drive excellence.
-
Research Directors
The leadership behind our five Areas of Focus.
-
Fellows
Recognized policy experts from across business, government and academia aligned with our areas of focus.
-
Teaching
Coming from a variety of academic backgrounds and industry experience, our instructors create a rigorous, interdisciplinary learning experience for our graduate students.
READI Committee
The School of Public Policy READI (Reconciliation, Equity, Accessibility, Diversity and Inclusion) Committee promotes inclusive dialogue and advance knowledge on EDIA and Indigenous engagement.
Our Terms of Reference can be viewed here.
-
UCalgary Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility (EDIA)
The Office of Institutional Commitments (OIC) serves as a centralized resource for EDIA. Through resources and education, we will continue to foster a community of change-makers.
-
UCalgary EDIA News & Events
Explore upcoming events and workshops hosted by the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (OEDI). Stay informed about opportunities to engage in meaningful discussions, training sessions, and community-building activities designed to promote inclusivity and drive positive change.
-
The Language of EDIA Glossary
Resource guide with key terms and principles related to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility.
-
URise Indigenous
Enrich and enhance learning, engagement, awareness, and understanding of First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples, identities, worldviews, and cultures, increasing intercultural capacity.
-
Office of Indigenous Engagement
Education has played a fundamental role in the colonization and cultural genocide of Indigenous peoples in Canada through historical oppressive assimilation legislation and policies. As guided by ii' taa'poh'to'p, the University of Calgary is dedicated to walk a parallel path towards reconciliation.
Browse learning resources, news and events as well as supports for Indigenous Students at UCalgary.
-
Indigenous Research Support Team
The Indigenous Research Support Team (IRST) strengthens Indigenous research at UCalgary by providing resources, consultations, and collaborative support. We foster a reciprocal, culturally responsive approach to Indigenous research, ensuring it aligns with ethical best practices, Indigenous priorities, and institutional commitments.
-
Territorial Land Acknowledgement
Explore the significance of territorial land acknowledgements and browse associated resources.