Information FAQ

Authentic Leadership Certificate Program: Frequently Asked Questions

Q.  Who else has taken this program?

A.  We have more than three hundred alumni who have graduated from this program since it began in 2001. Most courses have 30-40 people in them. Participants have been leaders or aspiring leaders from small businesses, large corporations, nonprofits, government agencies, as well as some coaches and consultants. The age-range of former participants has been 21-63. The course has consistently received high ratings on participant evaluations (average of 4.5 out of 5).

Q.  What are the main "take aways" from the program?

A.  Former participants report that by the end of the program they are more energized and clear about their values, purpose and future direction and they have the personal and collaborative skills to engage others in meaningful change. They also say that they are more effective in dealing with organizational issues, have more satisfaction with their work and their relationships with others, are better able to empower themselves and others and to balance work and life commitments.

Q.  What competencies are developed in the program?

A.   * Authenticity, self-reflection and personal mastery * Skillful conversation and conflict resolution * Collaboration, decision making and teamwork * Power, influence and empowerment * Leading transformative change

Q.  What are the hours of the onsite sessions?

A.  The onsite sessions take place from 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. on Friday and are held at Naropa's Nalanda Campus, 6287 Arapahoe Avenue, Boulder Colorado. Events also take place most evenings from 7-9 p.m. The evening events are not required, but attendance is strongly encouraged.

Q.  How much time does the online portion of the program take each week?

A.  On average, it takes about 2-3 hours per week for reading, participating in online discussion, practicing skills, journaling, coaching sessions, etc. Participants can adjust their time commitment to the program, depending on their work or travel schedules. The readings are prioritized, so participants can read as much as they have time for in a particular week. How much do books, etc. cost for the program? All of the readings are provided online so there is no additional fee for books. There is a $120 nonrefundable tech fee for online access.

Q.  How much does the program cost?

A.  Tuition is $5,200 for the noncredit professional certificate. Travel, lodging and food are not included. Some partial scholarships are available. Preference will be given to participants who register before December 15. Application for scholarships are available at www.naropa.edu/leader. Please email jbowser@naropa.edu to request a payment plan form that will allow participants to pay in three payments.

Q.  Can I take the course for college credit?

A.  Yes, if you have an undergraduate degree, you can receive 6 accredited graduate credits for this program. The tuition is $5,280. Discounts and scholarships are not available if participants take the class for credit. Call 303-546-3500 to register for credit. There are some additional academic requirements if you take the program for credit. Two academic papers will be required as well as regular participation online. It takes a bit more time, but most people who have taken the class for credit were glad that they put in the extra effort- they said they learned more from writing the papers.

Q.  Can I speak with the program director?

A.   Yes, please contact Susan Skjei (pronounced "shay") at sskjei@naropa.edu or call 720-320-7860