THE GROWTH OF CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS

The University of Olivet’s liberal arts tradition has always provided its graduates with a wide range of knowledge and the ability to adapt throughout their career. With the launch of its new certificate program in the fall, Olivet is taking the next step to help its graduates and other working professionals make meaningful change in organizations and fill any gaps required for movement and job growth.

“We were looking for ways to empower and equip our alumni,” said Kelly Corey, Ph.D., founding director of the Master of Arts in Leadership Program. “These certificates are designed for professionals who want to elevate their game and fill their toolbox with specific skills in a discipline.”

Insurance and Risk Management (IRM) and Leadership are two certificate programs that embody Olivet's signature relationship-based educational approach. The certificates can be pursued by current students or working professionals looking for additional credentials and training. Instead of the depth and duration of a bachelor's degree, certificates are shortterm and focused on specific skills. These programs are attractive to individuals changing careers or seeking higher pay or a promotion.

The Master of Arts in Leadership offers three standalone graduate leadership certificates: Creativity, Innovation and Change; Leading and Managing Nonprofit Organizations; and Sport Coaching Leadership. Each five-course program covers core leadership principles applicable to a wide range of academic disciplines, industries and careers.

“We are crafting tomorrow’s leaders, cultivating the skills and mindset needed to navigate complexity, foster collaboration and drive meaningful transformation in any environment,” said Corey. “It empowers individuals to elevate their capacity to lead with authenticity, compassion and vision, shaping organizations that thrive in a rapidly evolving world.”

Thomas Humphreys is the director of Olivet’s IRM program. He believes an IRM certificate will be attractive to current students on campus, especially those interested in finance, sport management, business administration, or anyone wanting to start their own business.

“Insurance is a big piece of the business world, no matter where you end up,” he said. “It would be an extra credential in their back pocket that would set them apart.”

Olivet’s IRM program is nationally recognized. This certificate program gives people across the country access to that program. Courses in the certificate include Principles of Insurance and Risk Management, Personal Insurance, and Commercial Insurance.

“A certificate is perfect for adults who want to dip their toe back in the water of education. It makes them more valuable to employers, or allows them to change careers and move up the ladder in their current position,” Humphreys said.

All the courses in certificate programs are online. This allows Olivet to reach beyond its traditional borders to impact more people, including alumni. And, alumni can expect the same relationship-based learning approach they had as students on campus.

“It's the core personality of the University,” Humphreys said. “As we expand our campus perimeter, it’s not going away. Relationship-based learning infused into an online setting will set us apart.”

Olivet has thoughtfully created ways to foster those relationships. Professors will host live online events as well as weekly live office hours to cover extra topics, answer questions and discuss current class projects. Students could be anywhere in the country and still create bonds and relationships with their fellow students and professors.

Corey is most excited about a new online Leadership Learning Community. “It will be a hub for all graduate students,” she said. “It will maintain a relations-based feel of the program.” In the community, students will have access to webinars and discussion boards, and can dialogue about relevant current issues with classmates. There will even be an on-campus event — the Courageous Leadership Colloquium — to bring students together in person with workshops, speakers and a real chance to get to know each other.

“Having a broad range of experiences really enriches the classroom,” Corey said. “Everyone’s perspective has value.”

Alumna Emily Lash, who graduated in 2023 with an MBA in general business, believes the Master of Arts in Leadership certificate program will not only enhance her leadership abilities, but also position her as a valuable asset within her organization.

"The certificate program's focus on foundational leadership will help me learn how to effectively lead teams, drive innovative change, and create a working atmosphere of respect and empowerment. I'll also further develop my skills to inspire and motivate my team members, while fostering a culture of collaboration and high performance," said Lash.

Corey defined leadership as an interaction between leaders and followers. Olivet is taking a leadership role in defining the future of education and providing opportunities for others to take charge of their own potential.

“Anyone can learn the skills to share a vision. These certificates will benefit a person who has been out in the world, excelled in their position and who people look to as a model,” Corey said. “They think, ‘I’m a person who could elevate the outcomes of this team, but I need the skills to do it better.’”

LOOKING TO EXPAND YOUR KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS?

Certificates are a great way to expand your knowledge while taking up only a little of your time. To learn more about certificate programs, contact Mike Lazusky, director of graduate, transfer and online admissions at 269-749-6612 or MLazusky@UOlivet.edu.