Certificate of Graduate Study in Advanced Leadership* is designed for professionals holding management positions who are looking for specialized development in management and leadership practice. Students learn critical applied skills in leading, managing conflict, leading change, and communicating effectively.

Advanced Leadership Certificate Objectives
Students learn critical applied skills in leadership, conflict management, driving change, and effective communication. The certificate provides impactful development opportunities for firms and organizations in the region.
Admission Requirements
The Certificate of Graduate Study in Advanced Leadership is open to any practicing manager with a baccalaureate or higher degree who is sponsored by their employer, or to a professional with at least eight years’ experience, including some managerial experience. Sponsorship by an employer is preferred.
Certificate Credit Hours
The certificate is a 10-credit hour program. You can take it as a stand-alone certificate or as one of three “stackable” graduate certificates required to complete the Business Administration, M.B.A. program. No previously earned credits can be applied to this program as substitutes for the program courses.
WHY CHOOSE ROCKHURST’S ADVANCED LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATE?
Targeted Learning for Impactful Leadership
Focused and Convenient
Designed for Professionals. Eight targeted courses delivered over 10 credit hours ensure a deep dive into leadership essentials without the time commitment of a full degree.
Proven Curriculum, Immediate Results
Learn Today, Lead Tomorrow. Adapted from Rockhurst’s renowned Helzberg School of Business, the program offers practical insights you can apply immediately to improve team performance and drive success.
Accredited and Transferable
Build Toward Your MBA. All courses are accredited and can be applied toward a Helzberg MBA, making this certificate a strategic step in your professional growth.
Open Enrollment Schedule Advanced Leadership Certificate 2026
Block 1 – Executive Presence, Effective Listening, Strategic Management
- September 4, October 2, October 30, November 20
Block 2 – Financial Management, Conflict Management, Negotiation
- January 29, January 30 (morning only), February 26, March 26, April 23
Block 3 – Leading Change, Networking
- June 4, June 25
All classes are on Fridays and take place in the Helzberg School’s executive classroom in Conway Hall.
Class times are typically 8-5, but some days might be shorter. Since classes are hybrid, asynchronous online instructional activities may take place between sessions.
Additional Information
Course Catalog
Course Catalog: Advanced Leadership Certificate
Course Catalog: Business Administration, MBA from Advanced Leadership Certificate
FAQs
What is the program cost?
$995 per credit hour (program is 10 credit hours)
Where are classes held?
All open enrollment classes are held in the Helzberg School of Management Executive Education Room at RU.
How long does the program take?
Meets on approximately one Friday a month for 10 months.
Need more information? Contact Us!
Additional Graduate Certificates
Additional Graduate Certificates
- Health Analytics*
- Health Care Management
- Justice, Belonging, and Community Change
- Nonprofit Administration
- Organizational Leadership
- Strategic Communication
*STEM certified
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