Certificate in

Strategic Communications

Program Overview

By the end of the program, participants will:

1. Build and deliver a complete Strategic Communication Plan

  • Develop a written Strategic Communication Plan & Execution Roadmap tailored to their organization
  • Include: audience, messaging, stakeholder strategy, internal alignment, external communication, channels, and tactics
  • Present the plan in the final session and receive structured feedback

2. Apply audience-centered communication to improve message clarity

  • Analyze at least one key audience segment and redesign messaging to improve clarity and relevance
  • Demonstrate improved message effectiveness through peer or instructor feedback

3. Develop and implement a clear messaging and impact framework

  • Create a core messaging framework (3–5 key messages + impact narrative)
  • Apply this framework consistently across at least two communication contexts (e.g., donor, community, internal)

4. Design a stakeholder engagement and partnership strategy

  • Identify and prioritize 5–10 key stakeholders or partners
  • Develop a targeted engagement approach for at least 2 stakeholder groups

    5. Improve internal alignment and reduce communication breakdowns

    • Diagnose at least one internal communication breakdown in their organization
    • Propose and document specific communication practices or systems to improve alignment

    6. Develop an external communication and reputation strategy

    • Create a basic external communication plan, including audience, messaging, and media approach
    • Outline a crisis or high-stakes communication response framework

    7. Select and justify strategic communication channels and tactics

    • Identify 2–3 priority communication channels (e.g., events, campaigns, partnerships)
    • Design one communication initiative (event, campaign, or outreach strategy) aligned with organizational goals

    8. Apply digital tools, analytics, and AI to improve execution

    • Develop a basic social media or digital communication plan
    • Use at least one AI tool to support messaging, planning, or content creation
    • Identify 1–2 metrics to evaluate communication effectiveness

    Before you register, please be sure you can commit to participating in each session.

    SYLLABUS

    Scheduled Sessions

    1. September 8
    2. September 15
    3. September 22
    4. September 29
    5. October 6
    6. October 13
    7. October 20
    8. October 27

    Session Time: 9:30AM – 3:30PM CST 

    Participants are expected to attend and actively engage in every session. 85% Attendance requirement allows for only 1 absence to satisfy the certificate requirements. Before registering, please be sure you can commit to participating in each session.

    Pricing

    $250*

    Inaugural Pricing

    REGISTER HERE

    *Eligible for AmeriCorps education award funds and Hazlewood Act tuition exemption program