01 DEC 2020–27 FEB 2021 — Module 1 (Distance Learning)
28 FEB–12 MAR 2021 — Module 2 (On Campus)
13 MAR–19 JUN 2021 — Module 3 (Distance Learning)
20 JUN–02 JUL 2021 — Module 4 (On Campus)
Summary
Innovative companies know that long-term success requires a pipeline of visionary leaders who can help build and secure a competitive edge. The Program for Leadership Development prepares emerging executives to become more effective influencers who can contribute to corporate success on a higher level.
A fast-track alternative to the executive MBA (EMBA), this highly personalized program features two on-campus and two distance-learning modules that focus on accelerating your business and your career. You will return to your organization more confident, more capable, and better equipped to take on new challenges.
Innovative companies know that long-term success requires a pipeline of visionary leaders who can help build and secure a competitive edge. The Program for Leadership Development prepares emerging executives to become more effective influencers who can contribute to corporate success on a higher level.
A fast-track alternative to the executive MBA (EMBA), this highly personalized program features two on-campus and two distance-learning modules that focus on accelerating your business and your career. You will return to your organization more confident, more capable, and better equipped to take on new challenges.
Key Benefits
This leadership development program improves your decision-making and cross-functional skills by expanding your understanding of business operations and the global marketplace. With broader business knowledge, global perspectives, and leadership insights, you will be ready to create an agile culture that embraces digital transformation and implement strategies that drive breakthrough innovation.
This leadership development program improves your decision-making and cross-functional skills by expanding your understanding of business operations and the global marketplace. With broader business knowledge, global perspectives, and leadership insights, you will be ready to create an agile culture that embraces digital transformation and implement strategies that drive breakthrough innovation.
Master the cross-functional challenges of corporate leadership
Lead organizational change and inspire high-performing global teams
Develop a personal leadership philosophy and presence that reflect greater confidence and capabilities
Capitalize on the opportunities unleashed by digital transformation
Formulate a detailed action plan to address your strategic and leadership challenges
Build enduring bonds with accomplished peers who span functions, industries, and countries
Take the first step toward becoming a member of the global HBS alumni community
Specialists and star contributors with at least 10 to 15 years of work experience who have been identified as outstanding prospects for increased leadership responsibilities
Managers from any business function and at any level, from project leaders to vice presidents
Global Perspective
Experience the world in your classroom.
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Industry Representation
Insights from a range of industries ignite your thinking.
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Experience
Years worked
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Specialists and star contributors with at least 10 to 15 years of work experience who have been identified as outstanding prospects for increased leadership responsibilities
Managers from any business function and at any level, from project leaders to vice presidents
Global Perspective
Experience the world in your classroom.
/Lists/Infographics/EditForm.aspx?ID=12
Industry Representation
Insights from a range of industries ignite your thinking.
/Lists/Infographics/EditForm.aspx?ID=13
Experience
Years worked
/Lists/Infographics/EditForm.aspx?ID=14
Learning and Living at HBS
PLD is a highly structured yet deeply personalized experience. From the careful selection of living group members and new HBS case studies to professional executive coaching for individuals and teams, every aspect is designed to foster collaborative learning and accelerate personal growth.
PLD is a highly structured yet deeply personalized experience. From the careful selection of living group members and new HBS case studies to professional executive coaching for individuals and teams, every aspect is designed to foster collaborative learning and accelerate personal growth.
Earning Alumni Status
Completing the PLD's four core modules puts you on the path to achieving HBS alumni status. By also completing PLD Module 5 or an additional 10 nights of HBS Executive Education open-enrollment or custom programs, you will become a lifetime member of the HBS alumni community—gaining exclusive access to our vast global alumni network and an array of resources that facilitate lifelong learning, growth, and success. Learn more.
Completing the PLD's four core modules puts you on the path to achieving HBS alumni status. By also completing PLD Module 5 or an additional 10 nights of HBS Executive Education open-enrollment or custom programs, you will become a lifetime member of the HBS alumni community—gaining exclusive access to our vast global alumni network and an array of resources that facilitate lifelong learning, growth, and success. Learn more.
Admissions Criteria and Process
Although the program has no formal educational requirements, admission is a selective process based on your professional achievement and organizational responsibilities.
The Application Process
We select applicants who embrace challenges, seek genuine personal and professional growth, and are ready to think in new ways about their business and their contribution. The curious, open-minded executive who commits wholeheartedly will find the program to be a highly stimulating, rewarding—even life-changing—experience.
To apply and be considered for this program, you must submit both components below:
The application, telling us about your experience, your organization, and your current responsibilities, goals, and challenges
A letter of reference from someone familiar with your work
To review both the application and letter of reference, download the Application PDF. You can submit your application via our online Application Form or by returning a completed PDF. When submitting the online application form, you will be asked for the email address of the individual serving as your reference. That individual will receive an email with a link to an online letter of reference form.
You may apply within one of the following admission rounds:
JUL 2020 Program
Round 1 Application due: 21 JAN 2020; Notified no later than: 04 FEB 2020
Round 2 Application due: 17 MAR 2020; Notified no later than: 31 MAR 2020
Round 3 Application due: 12 MAY 2020; Notified no later than: 26 MAY 2020
Both your application and letter of reference must be submitted by the deadline to be considered in an admissions round. Applications submitted after 12 MAY will be considered on a rolling, space-available basis.
DEC 2020 Program
Round 1 Application due: 21 APR 2020; Notified no later than: 5 MAY 2020
Round 2 Application due: 11 AUG 2020; Notified no later than: 25 AUG 2020
Round 3 Application due: 6 OCT 2020; Notified no later than: 20 OCT 2020
Both your application and letter of reference must be submitted by the deadline to be considered in an admissions round. Applications submitted after 6 OCT will be considered on a rolling, space-available basis.
Both your application and letter of reference must be submitted by the application deadline to be considered for that round. If we have not received your letter of reference by the application deadline, we won’t be able to consider your application in that round.
This program fills quickly and we advise you to apply early. We respect the time-sensitive nature of your admission status, and factor that into our notification deadlines. Applications submitted after the final deadline will be considered on a rolling, space-available basis. If you are waitlisted for the program, you will only be contacted if a seat opens up for you before the program starts.
Our Program Advising team can help you at any stage of the admissions process—starting with identifying the program that best addresses your learning and development goals. Contact a program advisor via email or call 1.800.427.5577 (outside the U.S., call +1.617.495.6555).
Letter of Reference
To gain a deeper understanding of your background and your potential as a leader, we require a letter of reference from a senior executive within your organization, a board member, or an HBS graduate familiar with your role and responsibilities. To submit the letter, follow the instructions in your application.
English Proficiency
Proficiency in spoken and written English is essential for active participation in fast-moving classes and small group discussions.
Learning Commitment
Residency on campus is required for the on-campus modules, and classes are held six days a week. Your active participation in all classroom sessions, case discussions, and other program activities is essential, so you must be free of other responsibilities while you are on campus.
Application Submission
We recommend that you apply as soon as you can, and at least four weeks before the program start date. You may use our online form or download an application. HBS maintains all application information in strict confidentiality. We acknowledge receipt of applications via email. In the unlikely event that you do not receive an acknowledgment, please email us at exed_admissions@hbs.edu or call us at +1.617.495.6226.
Application Review
To optimize the learning experience and maximize the exchange of ideas, our Admissions Committee makes selections that balance each participant's experience, scope of current responsibilities, and type of organization. HBS seeks candidates who reflect a broad range of industries, functions, countries, and backgrounds. We review applications monthly and will contact you via email with the Admissions Committee's decision.
Fee, Payment, and Cancellations
The program fee covers tuition, books, case materials, accommodations, and most meals. No payment is necessary until you have been accepted. Payment is required prior to the program start date. If you need to cancel or defer participation, you must submit your request in writing more than 30 days before the start of the program to receive a full refund. Cancellations or deferrals received 14 to 30 days prior to the start of the program are subject to a fee of one-half of the program fee. Requests received within 14 days are subject to full payment.
A limited amount of partial scholarship funding may be available for qualified applicants from not-for-profit organizations. Please include a request for funding in your application.
Although the program has no formal educational requirements, admission is a selective process based on your professional achievement and organizational responsibilities.
The Application Process
We select applicants who embrace challenges, seek genuine personal and professional growth, and are ready to think in new ways about their business and their contribution. The curious, open-minded executive who commits wholeheartedly will find the program to be a highly stimulating, rewarding—even life-changing—experience.
To apply and be considered for this program, you must submit both components below:
The application, telling us about your experience, your organization, and your current responsibilities, goals, and challenges
A letter of reference from someone familiar with your work
To review both the application and letter of reference, download the Application PDF. You can submit your application via our online Application Form or by returning a completed PDF. When submitting the online application form, you will be asked for the email address of the individual serving as your reference. That individual will receive an email with a link to an online letter of reference form.
You may apply within one of the following admission rounds:
JUL 2020 Program
Round 1 Application due: 21 JAN 2020; Notified no later than: 04 FEB 2020
Round 2 Application due: 17 MAR 2020; Notified no later than: 31 MAR 2020
Round 3 Application due: 12 MAY 2020; Notified no later than: 26 MAY 2020
Both your application and letter of reference must be submitted by the deadline to be considered in an admissions round. Applications submitted after 12 MAY will be considered on a rolling, space-available basis.
DEC 2020 Program
Round 1 Application due: 21 APR 2020; Notified no later than: 5 MAY 2020
Round 2 Application due: 11 AUG 2020; Notified no later than: 25 AUG 2020
Round 3 Application due: 6 OCT 2020; Notified no later than: 20 OCT 2020
Both your application and letter of reference must be submitted by the deadline to be considered in an admissions round. Applications submitted after 6 OCT will be considered on a rolling, space-available basis.
Both your application and letter of reference must be submitted by the application deadline to be considered for that round. If we have not received your letter of reference by the application deadline, we won’t be able to consider your application in that round.
This program fills quickly and we advise you to apply early. We respect the time-sensitive nature of your admission status, and factor that into our notification deadlines. Applications submitted after the final deadline will be considered on a rolling, space-available basis. If you are waitlisted for the program, you will only be contacted if a seat opens up for you before the program starts.
Answering Your Questions
Our Program Advising team can help you at any stage of the admissions process—starting with identifying the program that best addresses your learning and development goals. Contact a program advisor via email or call 1.800.427.5577 (outside the U.S., call +1.617.495.6555).
Letter of Reference
To gain a deeper understanding of your background and your potential as a leader, we require a letter of reference from a senior executive within your organization, a board member, or an HBS graduate familiar with your role and responsibilities. To submit the letter, follow the instructions in your application.
English Proficiency
Proficiency in spoken and written English is essential for active participation in fast-moving classes and small group discussions.
Learning Commitment
Residency on campus is required for the on-campus modules, and classes are held six days a week. Your active participation in all classroom sessions, case discussions, and other program activities is essential, so you must be free of other responsibilities while you are on campus.
Application Submission
We recommend that you apply as soon as you can, and at least four weeks before the program start date. You may use our online form or download an application. HBS maintains all application information in strict confidentiality. We acknowledge receipt of applications via email. In the unlikely event that you do not receive an acknowledgment, please email us at exed_admissions@hbs.edu or call us at +1.617.495.6226.
Application Review
To optimize the learning experience and maximize the exchange of ideas, our Admissions Committee makes selections that balance each participant's experience, scope of current responsibilities, and type of organization. HBS seeks candidates who reflect a broad range of industries, functions, countries, and backgrounds. We review applications monthly and will contact you via email with the Admissions Committee's decision.
Fee, Payment, and Cancellations
The program fee covers tuition, books, case materials, accommodations, and most meals. No payment is necessary until you have been accepted. Payment is required prior to the program start date. If you need to cancel or defer participation, you must submit your request in writing more than 30 days before the start of the program to receive a full refund. Cancellations or deferrals received 14 to 30 days prior to the start of the program are subject to a fee of one-half of the program fee. Requests received within 14 days are subject to full payment.
A limited amount of partial scholarship funding may be available for qualified applicants from not-for-profit organizations. Please include a request for funding in your application.
Program content, dates, fees, and faculty are subject to change. In accordance with Harvard University policy, Harvard Business School does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex or sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, veteran status, or disability in admission to, access to, treatment in, or employment in its programs and activities.
What You Will Learn
Focused on leadership, change, and innovation, the PLD curriculum is built around four highly integrated modules—two on-campus and two distance-learning sessions. On campus, you will engage in faculty presentations, case studies, personal assessments, individual and group exercises, and special projects. Through a customized case and professional HBS Executive Coaching, you will develop a personal action plan for tapping new revenue sources and navigating global market shifts.
The distance-learning modules feature Harvard Business School Online—a powerful digital platform that captures the dynamism of the HBS classroom, connects you to a global network of peers, and provides exclusive access to a wealth of interactive learning tools.
After completing the four modules, you will be eligible to attend PLD Module 5—an optional two-week session on campus that further accelerates your development as a leader and enables you to achieve HBS alumni status.
Focused on leadership, change, and innovation, the PLD curriculum is built around four highly integrated modules—two on-campus and two distance-learning sessions. On campus, you will engage in faculty presentations, case studies, personal assessments, individual and group exercises, and special projects. Through a customized case and professional HBS Executive Coaching, you will develop a personal action plan for tapping new revenue sources and navigating global market shifts.
The distance-learning modules feature Harvard Business School Online—a powerful digital platform that captures the dynamism of the HBS classroom, connects you to a global network of peers, and provides exclusive access to a wealth of interactive learning tools.
After completing the four modules, you will be eligible to attend PLD Module 5—an optional two-week session on campus that further accelerates your development as a leader and enables you to achieve HBS alumni status.
An immersive four-module program creates the opportunity to build close, trusting relationships with a small, diverse group of senior executives who can understand your challenges—but are not part of your organization. Your living group will stimulate your learning each day as you:
Share global insights with peer executives who span functions, cultures, and countries
Consider diverse perspectives as you discuss cases and assignments
Complete small group exercises and collaborate on projects as a team
Exchange feedback—both personal and professional—in a safe environment
Focused on accelerating individual and team growth, your professional coach will help you identify your leadership strengths and gaps through one-on-one and group coaching, a 360-degree leadership and personal assessment, and customized feedback. You will emerge with greater self-awareness, understanding, and confidence—as well as a customized action plan for achieving your leadership goals.
A customized, 360-degree assessment of your current skills provides insight into your leadership and management strengths as well asnd areas for improvement.
The personal case is the cornerstone of the PLD learning experience. In Module 2, you will address a performance gap or strategic opportunity facing your organization by building a comprehensive strategy and implementation plan. Throughout the program, the faculty, your living group, and your professional HBS Executive Coach will deliver feedback that will help you fine-tune your personal action plan.
During Module 4, your living group will compete to find a winning solution to a current business challenge brought to the program by one of our alumni. Building on your coursework in innovation and collaboration, you will leverage your group's unique talents and, in the process, learn how to lead diverse teams in a global context. In Module 3, your living group coach and project faculty advisor will be available to provide feedback via a dedicated portal, online meeting rooms, and teleconferencing to help you prepare for the competition in Module 4.
An immersive four-module program creates the opportunity to build close, trusting relationships with a small, diverse group of senior executives who can understand your challenges—but are not part of your organization. Your living group will stimulate your learning each day as you:
Share global insights with peer executives who span functions, cultures, and countries
Consider diverse perspectives as you discuss cases and assignments
Complete small group exercises and collaborate on projects as a team
Exchange feedback—both personal and professional—in a safe environment
HBS Executive Coaching
Focused on accelerating individual and team growth, your professional coach will help you identify your leadership strengths and gaps through one-on-one and group coaching, a 360-degree leadership and personal assessment, and customized feedback. You will emerge with greater self-awareness, understanding, and confidence—as well as a customized action plan for achieving your leadership goals.
Leadership Learning Path Assessment
A customized, 360-degree assessment of your current skills provides insight into your leadership and management strengths as well asnd areas for improvement.
Individual project: Customized case and personal action plan
The personal case is the cornerstone of the PLD learning experience. In Module 2, you will address a performance gap or strategic opportunity facing your organization by building a comprehensive strategy and implementation plan. Throughout the program, the faculty, your living group, and your professional HBS Executive Coach will deliver feedback that will help you fine-tune your personal action plan.
Team project: Alumni Challenge
During Module 4, your living group will compete to find a winning solution to a current business challenge brought to the program by one of our alumni. Building on your coursework in innovation and collaboration, you will leverage your group's unique talents and, in the process, learn how to lead diverse teams in a global context. In Module 3, your living group coach and project faculty advisor will be available to provide feedback via a dedicated portal, online meeting rooms, and teleconferencing to help you prepare for the competition in Module 4.
The HBS Advantage
PLD is developed and taught by a multidisciplinary team of HBS faculty who are widely recognized as skilled educators, groundbreaking researchers, and award-winning authors. Through their board memberships, consulting, and field-based research, they address the complex challenges facing business leaders across the globe.
Faculty Chair
Joshua D. Margolis
James Dinan and Elizabeth Miller Professor of Business Administration
PLD is developed and taught by a multidisciplinary team of HBS faculty who are widely recognized as skilled educators, groundbreaking researchers, and award-winning authors. Through their board memberships, consulting, and field-based research, they address the complex challenges facing business leaders across the globe.
Faculty Chair
Joshua D. Margolis
James Dinan and Elizabeth Miller Professor of Business Administration
H a r v a r d | B u s i n e s s | S c h o o lExecutive Education
