Alberta's Ministry of Advanced Education is the provincial government department responsible for post-secondary education including universities, colleges, polytechnics, and technical institutes. The ministry sets funding levels, approves new programs, and establishes policies affecting institutions like the University of Alberta, Mount Royal University, and SAIT. It also administers student financial aid programs including loans and grants that help Albertans afford higher education. The ministry works to align educational offerings with workforce needs, ensuring graduates have skills that match job market demands.