Graduate Certificate in Leadership in Justice

We've heard a lot in recent years about emotional intelligence and the difference it can make in how we are perceived by those around us in the workplace, in our communities and in our homes. Emotionally intelligent communications can deepen our connections with others, improving relationships and building trust. In this course, students develop fundamental strategies to improve their emotional intelligence. With self-awareness and empathy as the foundation, they learn communication strategies for verbal interactions, written communications and presentations to help them achieve their goals as they focus on the needs of those receiving their message (servant leadership). Students also focus on neutral listening as a tool to improve relationships and build trust. This course also covers social media considerations and the opportunities and challenges for organizations these channels present. Students learn theory, practical tools and have practice opportunities to improve their work experience and leadership.

In this course, students examine issues facing justice practitioners today from a leadership perspective. They gain a deep understanding of those issues, applicable theories and approaches that can help improve outcomes in the identified areas. Leaders at all levels have a role in approaching these challenges, and students gain understanding about the differences in that role based on their position and assignment in an organization.

Every organization has a culture. Many have pointed at an organization's culture when looking to lay blame for egregious actions by its members. Many have also looked at the opposite side – organizations with strong and positive cultures leading to strong employee satisfaction and engagement and support from the customers or communities they serve. This course covers organizational culture and the application of these concepts and theories in justice related settings. Once this foundation is laid, students explore how they, whatever their position in their organization, can positively influence the climate and culture in their work area using values-based leadership, procedural justice, co-production of leadership and other techniques.

Many employees have performed well at the line level and in first-level supervisory positions and have been rewarded for their performance with a promotion, only to discover that they are ill-prepared for their new role and that the techniques that drove their success earlier in their career are no longer relevant. Whatever their current position, this course equips students with the necessary skills and perspective to continue their growth and success as they move to new leadership roles. This course addresses leader development, leadership perspective, adaptability, conflict resolution, problem solving strategic planning and strategic communications for leaders.