What does it mean to be a leader, and how can you find your own path to leadership, at work, at home, and in your community? This 3-credit online course will help you envision your journey and develop actionable steps to advance yourself personally and professionally.

This Class is Recommended For:

• College students, and new and recent graduates with entry-level positions.
• Mid-career professionals seeking promotion and advancement.
• Community leaders and volunteers.
• Those interested in public or elected office.
• Anyone interested in developing their leadership potential in both work and life.

Skills and Learning:

Students who complete this course successfully will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the traits, skills, and behaviors associated with various leadership approaches through an examination of existing theoretical models.
• Identify ethical and culturally informed leadership skills that can be applied in a variety of settings
• Recognize and consider the utility of various leadership approaches for addressing real-life situations
• Apply knowledge of leadership theories to develop a personal leadership philosophy

Course Schedule and Time Commitment

• This hybrid, remote 12-week class begins on September 28th and meets once per week via Zoom on Wednesdays from 12:30 pm – 1:50 pm.
• Students will also utilize the College’s digital learning environment to engage with classmates in discussions related to real-life case studies in leadership.

Course Instructor

Dr. Casey O’Brien currently serves as the Dean of Academic Affairs at Columbia-Greene—providing leadership and oversight across the College’s six academic divisions. Now entering his tenth year at the campus, Dr. O’Brien was recently recognized by the College for his “thoughtful, charismatic, and intelligent leadership” that has helped move the College forward. Dr. O’Brien was the recipient of the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service in 2016, holds a bachelor’s in biology from Siena College, a master’s of public health in epidemiology from the University at Albany, and a doctorate of education in executive leadership from St. John Fisher University.

Cost and Fees

Cost for this three-credit course is $639 for NYS residents, plus fees. You do not need prior college classes or experience to participate in this course; it is designed for all learners, including those with college degrees. The course may be suitable for reimbursement from your employer; please contact your human resources department to find out more. Students may be eligible for financial aid or scholarships; to find out more about these options, please contact Matthew Green, Assistant Dean of Enrollment Management, at 518.697.6501.