Leadership Courses form a substantial part of modern leadership development strategies. A leadership course can be defined as a “prescribed learning programme followed by applicants under the supervision of a leadership organisation”.

There are several categories of leadership courses, and I will attempt to classify and document all types here.

1. One-on-One leadership coaching

Leadership coaching will often follow a standard leadership model used by the consultant on several clients. Personal leadership coaching is in my opinion the best quality of leadership course available. The tutoring will be 100% tailored to your needs, your performance, and your feedback will be extremely detailed and relevant. Visit our Leadership Coaching page for more information.

2. Industry-standard leadership courses.

Each large industry will have its own officially recognised leadership qualifications. In the education sector, there is the ‘Leading from the Middle’, ‘Leadership Pathways‘ and ‘National Professional Qualification for Headship’. In the health sector, each NHS Trust offers a range of leadership development programmes as detailed here for one trust as an example.

3. Leadership-related degrees.

Leadership diplomas and Online Leadership Degrees are available in two very different forms:

3.1 Leadership Bachelor Degrees

Foundation Degrees in leadership and management are available at practically every University in the UK that offers modular management learning opportunities. This campus-based learning offers a theory based approach to leadership, and is often taught in lectures or by self-reading.

3.2 Leadership Degrees Online

Leadership degrees online can be sourced from a variety of providers, however it is often difficult assessing which providers and genuine bone fide Universities with official rights to confer letters after your name (e.g. Bsc (Hons)). More information relating to these degrees, how to pick the cream of crops, and how to avoid being scammed, is on our Online Leadership Courses page.

4. Leadership Classes

Leadership classes are usually undertaken outside of the work environment, privately in the employees own time. For this reason, it is important that these tools and courses are affordable, and out of this necessity came leadership classes, with several participants engaging in the same course. This helps to reduce fees and also provides a great learning environment. Visit our Leadership Classes page for more information. An example of a leadership class is the Next Generation Leadership Programme.

5. Leadership Books.

Right at the extreme of the leadership courses definition sits leadership books that offer a structured method to improving your leadership skills.

Advice on Leadership Courses

It is crucial that you match the cost, time frame, official recognition and effectiveness of these solutions to your precise needs. A misjudgement on which type of leadership course is relevant, could cost you £1000s in unnecessary fees, or could set you back a year in your career progression. So make your decision carefully, and consult those around you, especially your manager, counselor or HR expert.