A small group of business professionals sit around a table as they meet to brainstorm some ideas

UC Davis Executive Leadership Program

Program at a Glance

  • 11 weeks
  • Online with 3 optional in-person sessions
  • $5,800

Transform. Inspire. Achieve.

As one of the region’s top executive leadership training programs for more than 40 years, the UC Davis Executive Leadership Program has been helping senior leaders transform their leadership skills to develop high-performing teams, drive innovation and effectively lead their organizations. This interactive program is taught by expert faculty and executives from leading industries who will guide you through a powerful experience to challenge and expand your thinking.

Thinking about enrolling? Preview the schedule for Spring 2025.

Who Should Apply?

Executives and top-level leaders from business, government and nonprofit organizations, as well as high-performing and high-potential leaders, from the region who want a deep dive into understanding their current leadership style and how to make meaningful change in their organization.

What You'll Get

  • Customized learning for immediate impact
  • Mindful Leadership
  • Greater capacity to drive innovation and achieve long-term goals
  • Enhanced decision-making and strategic thinking for a competitive edge in leadership
  • Increased self-awareness and greater understanding of your leadership style through 360 evaluation and executive coaching
  • Practical insights and real-world applications from industry experts
  • Expanded professional network and exclusive networking reception with faculty and peers
  • UC Davis Executive Leadership Certificate of Completion

What You'll Learn

  • Ability to develop and implement strategic plans, make data-driven decisions and navigate complex business challenges effectively
  • Clear and persuasive communication to foster collaboration and resolve conflicts efficiently
  • How to manage change initiatives and adapt to evolving market conditions
  • Strong financial acumen and analytical skills to interpret financial data, optimize resources and contribute to the organization's financial health
  • Leadership presence to influence, collaborate and lead across various sectors

Courses Open for Enrollment

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are executive leadership programs worth it?
  • Leadership training at all levels, including executive leadership training, is a worthwhile investment. Executive leadership programs can improve your performance and the performance of those around you. Executive leadership training can also help you create a plan for growth and future advancement, ultimately leading to job satisfaction. The UC Davis Executive Leadership Program is one of the Sacramento region’s best leadership training programs and, for more than four decades, has been helping equip senior leaders to make powerful change in their organizations.
  • What is an executive leadership program and how is it different from management development?
  • An executive leadership program is a specialized training program designed for executives and high-level leaders. The UC Davis Executive Leadership Program is a powerful hands-on program designed to help executives and senior leaders grow their capacity as leaders with a cutting-edge leadership curriculum. In addition, the program offers self-reflection and personal analysis, so leaders can gain a better understanding of their strengths to lead more effectively. Our Management Development Program, on the other hand, is designed for new and middle managers, focusing more on essential training techniques for promoting employee engagement and collaboration.
  • What can I expect during the 360 assessment and executive coaching sessions?
  • One of the most popular components of the program, the Leadership Practice Inventory (LPI 360 assessment), is a highly validated industry standard in executive development. During the 360 assessment, you will evaluate your leadership style and perceived efficacy. You will then share the same assessment with your superior and those you supervise, providing a full “360-degree view” of your perceived and experienced leadership. 

    Your two coaching sessions with an executive coach are designed to help you process your 360 feedback. The coach will facilitate introspection, evaluation and goal-oriented action setting through powerful questions and a creative partnership.
  • How much time can I expect to spend on coursework?
  • This executive training program is designed for working professionals and meets for 10 sessions over the course of 11 weeks on Thursday afternoons (2-6 p.m.) and Friday mornings (9 a.m.-1 p.m.). Scheduled at your convenience, these small-group meetings provide invaluable networking opportunities and feedback on the development of your Organizational Transformation Plan. Outside of class time, you should expect to spend 2-3 hours a week on coursework, group work and reading articles from top-notch publications. The program is designed to complement the schedule of working executives. Our format also allows you to integrate what you are learning immediately in your organization.
  • Is there financing available?
  • We work with several banks and private lending institutions to assist students with educational expenses. Students enrolled or planning to enroll in the Executive Leadership Program can apply for a private alternative education loan. We also work with employers to accept payment from them on a student’s behalf. For more information on available options, visit our Financing Your Education page. If you are a UC Davis career faculty or staff, you are eligible for a 50% discount.