HACU Pathways Early Career Leadership Program
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An Eight-Week Leadership Experience for Emerging Higher Education Professionals
Build the leadership skills needed to advance your career in higher education through a flexible, fully online program. Offered twice a year in the spring and fall, the eight-week program prepares professionals in entry-level positions for future leadership roles while connecting them with peers from colleges and universities across the country.
Professionals who may benefit from the program include academic advisors, specialists and coordinators serving in academic, student services, and nonacademic support areas, as well as others in comparable entry-level higher education roles. Academic and nonacademic support personnel are encouraged to apply.
Main Topic Areas
The curriculum covers topics that benefit both participants’ professional development supporting institutional effectiveness and student success, including:
- Leadership
- Professional Identity
- Strategic Planning
- Communication
- Data-informed decision-making
Program Curriculum
The eight-week curriculum builds foundational leadership knowledge though eight online sessions, each focused on a key area of professional growth.
- Emotional Intelligence
Develop self-awareness, strengthen communication skills and learn strategies for building professional relationships.
- Leadership Foundations
Explore the fundamentals of leadership in higher education, including institutional culture, mission, organizational roles, and building trust and credibility.
- Capstone Leadership Plan
Participants apply what they have learned by completing a Leadership Development Plan that supports their continued professional growth.
- Data Leadership
Learn how to interpret and communicate institutional data to support informed decision-making and collaboration.
- Change Management
Examine strategies for leading through organizational change, addressing resistance and communicating effectively.
- Career Advancement
Develop a personalized strategy for career growth through networking, professional planning and a 24-month leadership development plan.
- Governance
Gain an understanding of shared governance, institutional decision-making and effective participation on committees.
- Supervision
Build the skills needed to transition into supervisory roles, including team development, feedback and accountability.
- Strategy
Learn the fundamentals of strategic planning, goal setting and aligning individual work with institutional priorities.
Program Offered
Spring 2027
Feb 1 – Mar 29, 2027
Fall 2027
Sep 6 – Oct 29, 2027
Program Structure
Participants complete the fully online program over eight weeks, committing approximately 1.5 hours each week. Participants must attend at least six sessions to receive a certificate of completion.
The program includes eight 90 minutes online sessions consisting of:
- 45 minutes of instruction
- 30 minutes of interactive activities
- 15 minutes discussion and reflection.
Participant Outcomes
- Strengthened leadership competencies
- Increased readiness for supervisory roles
- Practical skills that can be applied immediately
- Greater confidence to lead and influence
- Expanded professional networks
- Stronger preparation for career advancement
Leadership Immersion Experience
Participants may choose to attend the Leadership Immersion Experience, which begins with a one-day, in-person learning session and continues with attendance at a HACU conference, offering additional professional development and networking opportunities.
During the spring session, the Leadership Immersion Experience is held prior to HACU’s Capitol Forum. During the fall session, it is held prior to HACU’s Annual Conference. Registration for the corresponding conference is included.
The Leadership Immersion Experience includes interactive workshops, facilitated discussions and networking with higher education leaders. Participants gain insight into current higher education leadership challenges and institutional best practices while building relationships with peers and potential mentors from across the country.
Eligibility Requirements
- Up to five years of full-time higher education experience
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree
Program Costs
| Participant | Online Program | Online Program with Leadership Immersion Experience* |
|---|---|---|
|
HACU-member institution |
$850 |
$2,150 |
|
Non-member institution |
$1,000 |
$2,550 |
*Program fees for the Leadership Immersion Experience do not include travel, lodging, or other personal expenses.
Certificate of Completion
Participants who successfully complete the program receive a HACU Certificate of Completion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I participate if I have more than five years of experience?
The program is designed for professionals with one to five years of full-time experience in entry-level higher education positions. Individuals with more than five years of experience may still be selected for the program but are also encouraged to explore HACU’s other professional leadership programs.
Are scholarships available for this program?
At this time, scholarships are not available for the Entry-Level Leadership Program. Participants are encouraged to inquire whether their institution offers professional development funding to support program participation.
Do I need to be nominated to participate?
No. Eligible professionals may apply directly to the Entry-Level Leadership Program. A nomination from a supervisor or institution is not required.
Is the Leadership Immersion Experience required?
No. The Leadership Immersion Experience is an optional add-on available to participants seeking additional professional development and networking opportunities.
How will I access the online program?
Participants will receive instructions before the program begins on how to access the online learning platform and program materials.
Are the online sessions live, self-paced, or a combination of both?
The online sessions are all live sessions.
What happens if I miss a weekly session?
Program sessions are not designed to build on one another. Participants who miss a session can review the recording and other available course materials. Participants must attend at least six sessions to receive a certificate of completion.
Who should I contact if I have questions about the program or application process?
For questions about the Entry-Level Leadership Program, eligibility requirements, or the application process, please contact Dr. Paul Machen at leadership@hacu.net.
Get in Touch
Contact Information
Please include your name, institution and campus as part of your communication.
For questions or more information about HACU Professional Leadership Programs, please contact:
- Paul Machen, Ph.D.
- Senior Executive Director of Professional Leadership and Student Programs
- leadership@hacu.net
- 210-576-3229
