College of Social Sciences

Upcoming courses

The LeadHERship Retreat

Supporting women to strengthen their leadership impact, expand their influence and drive meaningful change.

Find out more about The LeadHERship Retreat

The Gilbert Scott Building of the University from the west

Leading from the Boardroom: Governance, Skills and Impact

Discover how strong governance can drive better decisions, stronger organisations and lasting impact.

Other Courses

What are the benefits?

Executive Education is specialised, non-degree, academic professional development designed to enhance the leadership, management, and strategic capabilities of executives and experienced professionals, helping them apply new knowledge and skills to real organisational challenges. 

It provides measurable career gains - such as salary increases or promotion - and strengthens leadership, strategic thinking, and decision‑making while expanding global networks and improving organizational impact:

  • flexible and concise short courses, aligning with busy work schedule; 

  • delivering applicable, tangible, measurable skills;

  • delivered as intensive in-person modules, live online classes, or customized corporate programs in a hybrid form (self-study online + in-person summary sessions with networking capability).

For Individuals

  • Strengthen your leadership skills, strategic thinking and decision-making, through research-led learning and practical application.
  • Build the confidence and influence to lead effectively, gain competitive edge and drive meaningful change.
  • Expand your professional network by connecting with peers, academics and industry experts.
  • Study while working and develop practical skills and fresh perspectives that support career growth and immediate workplace impact.

For Organisations

  • Develop confident leaders who can drive strategic priorities and organisational success.
  • Strengthen decision-making and governance through enhanced leadership capability and expertise.
  • Build resilience and innovation by equipping teams to navigate complex challenges and embrace new ideas.
  • Create lasting organisational impact through inclusive leadership, practical learning and measurable outcomes.

Participant Reflections

Listen to Sheila Tulloch, Partner at Anderson Strathern, describing her experience of the LeadHERship Retreat

Discover how our programmes have helped professionals strengthen their leadership, expand their networks and create meaningful impact:

"The course has given me space to reflect on my career, and the direction I would like to go in the future. You tend to get so wrapped up in the ever-day tasks, working full-time, being a parent, etc, that taking actual time away to reflect on my leadership skills and plans was great."

"Having that academic input and expertise, alongside the industries’ experience, has been hugely beneficial. Both the academics and the guest speakers – it's been such a great mix of contributions."

 "I learned some new practical skills, and also how to take more time for self-care and reflection, and to consider my future plans to progress in my industry.” 

Learn from Leading Experts

Graeme Roy Headshot

Professor Graeme Roy

Dean of External Engagement & Interim Head of Adam Smith Business School

"Our Executive Education programmes equip leaders with the advanced skills and critical knowledge necessary to drive organisational change, shape policy, and generate positive social impact."

Irene Marie profile

Professor Irene-Marie Esser

Dean of Graduate Studies 

"Executive Education is an ideal opportunity to learn to think more critically, analyse different viewpoints and get to know a wide range of people both professionally and socially."

Chris Chapman profile

Professor Christopher Chapman

Chair in Educational Policy and Practice

"Working with senior leaders in a university context provides a safe space to unpack challenging issues and generate innovative solutions to real life issues, tensions and dilemmas with colleagues from diverse backgrounds with contrasting expertise and experience."

Nicola McEwen Headshot

Professor Nicola McEwen

Director of the Centre for Public Policy 

"Executive Education plays a pivotal role in shaping policy and practice by equipping emerging leaders with the strategic insight and practical skills needed to navigate complex challenges, fostering a new generation of informed decision-makers who will drive effective and impactful public policy."

Professionals smiling and laughing seated around a table in an office environment

Have a question or want to learn more?

Get in touch with our team to discuss our programmes, explore partnership opportunities, or find out how we can develop a tailored executive education solution to meet your organisation's needs.