In a fast paced, fast evolving world, the ability to continuously learn and adapt is critical for long-term career and organizational success. You need to prioritize your own leadership development to hone key business skills, gain exposure to emerging technology and new methodologies, and develop an agile and strategic mindset to be ready to step up at every stage of your career.
Depending on your current role and your aspirations and goals for your career, the type of development and capabilities you need may vary. For professionals who may not have the budget, time or desire to invest in a graduate degree, but want to address skills gaps, increase lifetime earning potential, or create opportunities to advance or change careers, certifications are a smart option for upskilling quickly and affordably.
Darden’s noncredit certificates allow you to define your own learning journey or design a development track that meets your specific goals. Not sure what type of certificate you need? Take our short quiz below to help you identify a certificate path that may be best suited to your needs.
Question 1: Where do you stand in your career journey?
- An aspiring leader eager to break into management. I’m growing in my current role, changing careers or moving from a functional expert to a team manager role.
- A seasoned manager looking to take the next big step. I have certain leadership and technical skills I need to build to prepare for my next career move.
- At the helm of a department or organization. I leverage an enterprise perspective to integrate across functions and demonstrate a global perspective to decision making.
Question 2: What are your professional development goals?
- I’m focused on strengthening my leadership and technical abilities to excel in future management roles.
- I want to gain a diverse range of management experience and leadership skills. My ultimate goal is to become a visionary executive who can inspire and guide teams effectively.
- I’m driven to lead with purpose, vision, and integrity. I’m committed to developing the strategic thinking, ethical judgment, and global perspective needed to succeed in today’s dynamic business environment.
Question 3: What is your time commitment and learning format preferences?
- I’m looking for a fast-paced program that can help me develop new skills within 1-2 years. I prefer a learning format that combines online and in-person classes for flexibility.
- I’m interested in a long-term program that will help me develop my management skills over the next 4-7 years. I prefer in-person classes to build relationships with other professionals.
- I’m interested in a 4-week intensive program that allows me to focus on personal growth, build connections, and build a network of international peers.
Question 4: What type of structure/ framework are you looking for in a certificate program?
- I’m interested in a program with a structured curriculum that covers essential leadership and technical skills. I’d also like the flexibility to choose some elective courses.
- I’m looking for a program that allows me to customize my learning by combining specific leadership skills with relevant technical knowledge. This will help me enhance my professional qualifications.
- I’m seeking a comprehensive advanced management program that offers executive coaching, a wellness component, insights from industry experts, and opportunities for hands-on experience through a business challenge project.
Mostly A’s: Management Development Certificate
Want to level up your leadership skills? Darden’s Management Development Certificate is perfect for you. This program helps you build a strong foundation in leadership and technical skills, so you can confidently take on bigger roles. It’s ideal for people who are growing in their current jobs, changing careers, or moving into management. You’ll learn from top-notch faculty and network with other ambitious professionals.
Mosty B’s: Certificate in Leadership & Management
Looking to become a top executive? Darden’s Leadership & Management Certificate can help you get there. This program exposes you to a wide range of management topics and leadership skills. You can choose from over 15 programs to build a personalized learning path that suits your needs. Whether you’re working on a specific skill or looking for a complete overhaul of your leadership style, this certificate will give you the tools and knowledge you need to succeed. This certificate track is completed by taking any 4 programs over a seven-year period from our constantly evolving portfolio.
Mostly C’s: The Executive Program: Advanced Management
Are you ready for the C-suite? Darden’s Executive Program is the ultimate advanced management program. It focuses on developing your leadership skills, ethical mindset, and global perspective. You’ll learn from experienced faculty, network with other top executives, and participate in hands-on activities. This program will equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to lead at the highest level.
Ready for the Next Step? Have More Questions?
We’re here to help you! Connect with one of our lifelong learning directors, Allison Stratton or Lauren Shifflett. We’ll discuss your specific goals, options for your certificate path and how to get started.
Need help with the financial investment? Check out our Financing Your Professional Development blog post for tips on how to request and gain support from your employer, as well as group and regional discounts that may apply to you and your organization. The professional development benefit offered by many organizations can go a long way towards earning your certificate.
