Leadership
Certificate
The online Graduate Certificate in Leadership offers an overview of every aspect of leadership dynamics and provides students with experience in the development of strategic leadership techniques.
Program overview
Become a more strategic leader
Today’s cross-functional teams and organizations require leaders who understand how to apply the collective expertise and capabilities of the group. The Graduate Certificate in Leadership is based on the belief that everyone is capable of leadership and studies every aspect of leadership dynamics, including the leader as an individual and as a team member. It also examines leadership within organizational culture and strategic leadership techniques.
This online program exposes students to perspectives of leadership, including collaborative models. The online format’s heightened level of interaction reinforces collaboration and teamwork, and action-learning methods let participants build a personal model of leadership they can immediately use.
Please note: Beginning fall 2026, this program will shift from a quarter-based academic calendar to a semester format. View the program conversion guide for curriculum details or visit our FAQ page for more information.
If you enter this program before fall 2026, your academic advisor will work with you to ensure a smooth transition. This change will not impact your academic progress, path to graduation, or tuition costs.
Today’s cross-functional teams and organizations require leaders who understand how to apply the collective expertise and capabilities of the group. The Graduate Certificate in Leadership is based on the belief that everyone is capable of leadership and studies every aspect of leadership dynamics, including the leader as an individual and as a team member. It also examines leadership within organizational culture and strategic leadership techniques.
This online program exposes students to perspectives of leadership, including collaborative models. The online format’s heightened level of interaction reinforces collaboration and teamwork, and action-learning methods let participants build a personal model of leadership they can immediately use.
Please note: Beginning fall 2026, this program will shift from a quarter-based academic calendar to a semester format. View the program conversion guide for curriculum details or visit our FAQ page for more information.
If you enter this program before fall 2026, your academic advisor will work with you to ensure a smooth transition. This change will not impact your academic progress, path to graduation, or tuition costs.
Stackable Certificate
Credits earned in this certificate program can be applied toward Northeastern’s MS in Corporate and Organizational Communication, MS in Organizational Leadership, or MS in Project Management, giving you the flexibility to further enhance your expertise and credentials.
Leadership Development for Working Professionals
Designed with working professionals in mind, this certificate provides you with the opportunity to deepen your leadership experience while gaining exposure to the latest leadership strategies and tools. You’ll be equipped to take on new challenges and lead with confidence in any organization.
Admissions
Apply to the program
A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.
A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.
Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis; however, we do recommend the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term:
Domestic Application Guidelines
International Application Guidelines*
*International deadlines are only applicable if the program is F1 compliant.
Online application
Professional resumé
Unofficial, personal copies of transcripts from all colleges and universities attended; official transcripts are required at the time of enrollment
The Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) is a required assessment of all transcripts and documents. Please review the FCE requirements by country.
Please refer to the CPS Apply Now page to learn about additional materials that may be required
Program objectives
Prepare for success
Gain strategic leadership skills that can help you advance your career and move your organization forward, no matter your industry.
Enhance your leadership experience with exposure to relevant and up-to-date leadership strategies.
Using real-world examples and experiences, build a personal model of leadership that you can put to immediate use in your workplace.
Connect with us
Want more information?
We’re here to answer your questions about this program, the application process, and more. Complete the form below to receive additional program details and speak with a member of our enrollment team.
Degree building
Stack your certificate
Earning a graduate certificate is a fast and affordable way to acquire specialized skills while building toward your master’s degree. Upon completion of this certificate program, you may be able to apply your credits to an eligible master’s program, saving time and money on your degree.
Some of the eligible master’s programs for this certificate include:
- Master of Science in Organizational Leadership — Boston
- Master of Science in Organizational Leadership — Online
Contact an enrollment counselor to learn more about eligibility requirements.
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Cost of attendance
Tuition and financial aid
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$16,542Tuition in USD
Estimated Total Tuition
This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.
For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.
There are many ways to pay for your education, including scholarships, financial aid, and more. Connect with a financial counselor to learn about your options and make your dream a reality.
Visit tuition & financial aidYour education, your way
Northeastern's online classes give you the same top-tier education you'd get in person, on a schedule that works for your lifestyle and career needs. They offer a range of videos, interactives, breakout sessions, and experience-focused learning opportunities to immerse you in the material and build community. You'll graduate with the same degree as your in-person peers.
#8
Northeastern's national ranking for Most Innovative Schools
(U.S. News & World Report, 2024)
53.5%
Percent of graduate students in the U.S. enrolled in online courses
(NCES, 2022)
97%
Percent of students in the U.S. who recommend online education
(BestColleges, 2024)