Mulungushi University
&
Chalimbana Local Government Training Institute

1. Rationale

The Master of Arts in Local Government Finance is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in financial management within the local government system. The programme aims to develop professionals who can apply modern financial management tools to mobilize resources, ensure accountability, and promote fiscal sustainability at the local level. Its structure and content focus on enhancing students’ analytical and strategic capabilities in budgeting, revenue generation, expenditure control, and financial reporting to support effective decision-making and quality service delivery in local governance. 

2. Aims of the programme

The Master of Local Government Finance aims to enhance the development and effectiveness of local government finance in Zambia by deepening understanding of the local governance environment, legislation, and key actors. It equips practitioners with the knowledge and tools to utilize resources effectively, foster collaboration, and drive sustainable grassroots development.

3. Programme Objectives

The objectives of the programme are:

1. To equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in local government finance, enabling them to manage financial resources effectively and efficiently.
2. To develop professionals capable of analyzing and addressing the complex financial challenges facing local governments, including budgeting, financial planning, and revenue management.
3. To enhance the capacity of local government practitioners to implement sound financial management practices, ensuring transparency, accountability, and sustainability.
4. To foster expertise in financial planning, budgeting, and policy analysis, enabling students to contribute to the development of effective local government policies.
5. To develop research skills and critical thinking, enabling students to identify and address financial management gaps in local governments.
6. To provide specialized training in local government finance, including taxation, revenue collection, and financial reporting.
7. To build leadership and management capacity in local government finance, enabling graduates to assume senior roles and drive organizational change.
8. To promote ethical governance, accountability, and transparency in local government finance, ensuring that graduates are equipped to make informed, evidence-based decisions.

4. Duration

5. Course Outline

6. Teaching Strategies

7. Entry Requirement

8. Student Assessment

The break down for assessment is as follows:

9. Progression Requirements

A candidate is expected to clear (pass) all the modules of each semester before they can proceed to the next semester.

10. Certification