Become a Better Manager

The World Economic Forum reported that by 2022, a majority of workers will need to upgrade their skills either for a new position or for their current job; and today’s managers are no exception. Managers who can harness the power of analytics, diversity, creativity and innovation will become the leaders of tomorrow. Beginning in summer 2020, four new graduate certificates offered by Bentley will provide an opportunity for first-time, aspiring or experienced managers to learn or sharpen those skills. 

“Business schools need to continue to innovate and think of ways of delivering new skills to those already in the workforce,” says Bill Read, dean of business and the Graduate School at Bentley. “These certificates complement our graduate degree programs and provide another format for those looking to expand their management toolbox.” 

“All managers need people skills, but people skills are continually evolving with the global market,” says Professor and Chair of the Management Department Linda Edelman. “Research shows that leaders who can harness the power of diverse backgrounds and perspectives, for example, are more effective and successful.” 

In addition to critical and analytical thinking, Edelman adds, entrepreneurial and creative thinking are other necessary ingredients for successful managers. She cites other human skills such as originality and initiative as also being essential to navigating the changing work environment. 

“We are on the cusp of redefining what responsible management actually means, and going forward successful leaders will be those who act with far greater attentiveness, understanding and empathy for a broad range of stakeholders,” says Tony Buono, professor of management and sociology.

Each three-course graduate certificate can be completed in less than a year and credits can be applied toward a future graduate degree at Bentley. Courses will be held in a live virtual format, where students will meet once or twice per week over Zoom. Management certificates include: 

• Project Management Consulting: Successfully managing projects requires technical, business and people skills. Sharpen negotiation and persuasion skills and learn key project management methodologies and frameworks.  
• Management Skills for First-Time Managers: Learn how to use emotional intelligence, team design, negotiation and other skills to make a first-time (or potential) management assignment a success — and avoid some of the mistakes that slow down or derail the careers of some first-time managers. 
• Becoming an Inclusive Leader: Learn how to apply ethical leadership to an organization in a rapidly changing world, and to benefit from the diverse backgrounds of employees, customers and stakeholders.  
• Becoming an Innovative Manager: Learn the skills and analytical tools needed to succeed in a career as an autonomous entrepreneur, family-business entrepreneur or entrepreneur in corporate settings. Learn to master a full range of mindsets, from critical and creative thinking to analytics, while embracing innovation and originality.  

Students will be required to complete three courses per certificate. Certificate students who complete their program are eligible to waive many requirements for admission to our MBA or Master of Science (MS) programs.

Enrollment for certificates will be offered in summer and fall 2020 with a special offer of $1,000 for the first class (regularly $4,988). Alumni receive a 10 percent discount. Classes will be offered three times per year beginning 2021 (spring, summer and fall). Read additional program details and apply.