Empowering Aspiring Governance Professionals to Excel
There has never been a more exciting time to build a career in governance – and no better way to gain the skills and credentials you need than by advancing your professional development with The Chartered Governance Institute of Canada.
Our trusted qualifications and training programs strengthen your knowledge, sharpen your skills, and build the confidence required to excel in today’s complex governance environment. They open doors to new opportunities and position you for meaningful impact.
Whether you are beginning your governance journey or seeking a fast track to serving as a Board Director, CGIC provides the education, support, and professional pathway to help you succeed.
CGIC offers two respected education programs that support governance professionals at every stage of their career.
International Qualifying Program
Internationally recognized pathway to becoming a Chartered Secretary or Chartered Governance Professional.
Learn more >
Directors’ Education and Accreditation Program
Designation recognizing enhanced competencies in governance, finance, and strategy and risk management.
International Qualifying Program
Chartered status is the gold standard credential for Company Secretaries and Governance Professionals. It signifies that you possess the knowledge, skills, and judgment required to take on roles with significant and wide‑ranging responsibilities. Achieving Chartered status requires completing the International Qualifying Program, gaining the necessary practical experience, and upholding the highest standards of professional character throughout your career.
The International Qualifying Program (IQP) is a comprehensive professional pathway covering the full spectrum of governance practice – including corporate governance, compliance and administration, company law, finance, strategy, risk management, and boardroom dynamics. Successfully completing the IQP opens the door to diverse and challenging career opportunities as a trained governance professional, recognized in more than 80 countries worldwide.
Learn more about the iqp programDirectors’ Education and Accreditation Program
Designed for busy professionals who want to strengthen their governance competencies, the Directors’ Education and Accreditation Program (DEAP) delivers essential knowledge in governance, financial reporting and disclosure, strategy development, and risk management – the core areas every current or aspiring Board Director must master.
DEAP is a short, intensive, and highly effective program that provides a clear understanding of the Board Director role and the key responsibilities that come with it. It equips you with the tools to fulfill your duties to your organization, its stakeholders, and yourself with confidence and professionalism.
Upon successful completion, you earn the Accredited Director (Acc.Dir.) designation – a credential that demonstrates your readiness to meet the demands facing today’s Board Directors.
Learn more about the DEAp programContinuing Professional Development
Ongoing professional development is essential for staying current in a rapidly evolving governance landscape. It keeps your knowledge sharp, strengthens your business and personal skills, supports long‑term professional growth, and can open the door to new career opportunities. All CGIC members are encouraged to engage in continuous learning to maintain the highest standards of practice.
For Associates and Fellows of the Institute who are actively practicing, annual professional development is mandatory under CGIC’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD) policy. This requirement ensures that Chartered members continue to grow, uphold the profession’s expectations, and demonstrate their commitment to serving the public with integrity and excellence.
Not sure which education program is right for you?
CONTACT our education team