Graduate Certificate in Organizational Learning and Change
Lead Change Responsibly in Your Organization
Contemporary organizations have always been in flux. However, the current promise of Gen AI has intensified the pace of organizational change and is dramatically reshaping our understanding of work. This certificate is designed to help you lead change by leveraging the human side of transformation with a heightened sense of responsibility towards all stakeholders. Whether you are a manager, change agent, or executive in any industry, you can stay ahead of the curve by gaining the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the human-technology relationship responsibly.
In our Graduate Certificate in Organizational Learning and Change program, students gain an understanding of how a “learning focus” with a sense of responsibility to all stakeholders helps organizations improve their performance and be a force for good. They develop essential knowledge and skills in organizational behavior, change management, leadership development, responsible leadership, employee engagement, and strategic planning. They engage with cutting-edge theories and real-world case studies to understand how organizations learn, adapt, and evolve; and why and how we need to lead with a sense of responsibility. They expand on practical techniques to effectively assess organizational performance, lead change initiatives, foster a culture of innovation and responsibility, and drive sustainable results within an organization.
Advancing the Industry
As one of the largest programs of its kind in the United States, it is active in advancing research and practice within the human resource development field.
A Stepping Stone to a Master's Degree
Students can complete the program as a stand-alone certificate or apply the 12 credit hours to the 30-credit Master’s in Organizational Leadership & Learning.*
*If accepted and all requirements met
The GW Advantage
Benefit from our unique location in the heart of our nation’s capital, with access to research, internship, and employment opportunities with prestigious private and government organizations. The program provides hands-on experience in diverse aspects of leadership, helping you deepen your understanding of what it means to lead effectively.
Degree Awarded:
Graduate Certificate in Organizational Learning and Change
Department:
Human & Organizational Learning
Course Delivery:
-Foggy Bottom Campus
-Online
Program Entry:
Spring, Fall
- Curriculum Requirements
Apply Now
GSEHD’s Office of Admissions invites you to apply for a spot in our program. Please review the following admission and financial information.
Ready to take the next step in your career? Review our step-by-step guide to applying to GSEHD >
To learn more about the program, admission process, and upcoming events, please connect with the GSEHD Admissions Team at askhol
gwu [dot] edu (askhol[at]gwu[dot]edu)or 202-994-9283.
| Apply Now | Schedule Meeting with Admissions Coach |
To be considered for admission, applicants must submit the online application form as well as the following required supporting documents. There is no application fee.
- Prerequisite: Bachelor's Degree
- Resume
- Transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
- Statement of Purpose
- 2 Letters of Recommendation
*Additional application requirements may exist for international applicants.
Applications are being accepted for Spring and Fall 2026. We encourage you to apply as early as possible.
Application Timeline Spring Fall Priority Deadline Sept 1 Nov 1 Round 1 Deadline Oct 1 Dec 1 Round 2 Deadline Nov 1 Jan 15 Round 3 Deadline - March 1 Round 4 Deadline - May 1 Round 5 Deadline - June 15 Program Deadline Dec 1 Aug 1
For more information or to inquire about the next admissions cycle, contact the GSEHD Admissions Team at educationgwu [dot] edu (education[at]gwu[dot]edu) or 202-994-9283.
Tuition & Financial Aid
We know embarking upon graduate school is a big decision - due in part to the costs of attending. At GW, we understand the time and thought behind making graduate level school work for you. Please take a moment to learn more about the options and opportunities available to help fund your graduate education.
Graduate tuition is charged per credit hour, unless otherwise noted. Rates vary by program and location.
The tuition rate* for the Graduate Certificate in Organizational Learning and Change program is $1,960 per credit hour.
This program requires 12 credits.
Please note: Additional fees may apply for international students, late fees, etc. Current tuition rates may be updated during the year.
*Summer 2025, Fall 2025 and Spring 2026
Career Outlook
A Graduate Certificate in Organizational Learning and Change can open up various career opportunities in fields related to organizational development, human resources, training and development, change management, consulting, and more. This certificate prepares you to apply your knowledge and skills across a wide range of industries, including healthcare, education, government, nonprofit, and corporate sectors.
Learn more in our guide: What Can You Do With an Organizational Leadership and Learning Degree?
- Career Opportunities
Here are some potential career paths you could pursue:
- Organizational Development Specialist: Identify areas for improvement, implement change initiatives, and foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptation.
- Change Management Consultant: Help organizations manage transitions, implement new processes or technologies, and facilitate organizational change effectively.
- Training and Development Coordinator: Design, deliver, and evaluate training programs for employees to enhance their skills and competencies.
- Human Resources Manager or Specialist: Work in HR departments, focusing on talent development, performance management, employee engagement, and organizational culture initiatives within organizations.
- Project Manager: Understanding organizational change and learning could be useful in project management roles, especially those involving complex projects with significant organizational impact.
- Performance/Quality Improvement Specialist: Identify performance gaps within organizations and develop interventions to address these gaps through training, process improvement, quality standards, or other means.
- Educational Consultant: Partner with educational institutions or training providers to develop curriculum, design educational programs, and facilitate professional development workshops for educators.
- Research Assistant: Support researchers or academic institutions conducting research on topics related to organizational learning, change management, leadership, or human development.
Department Chair and Professor, Human and Organizational Learning
Associate Professor, Human and Organizational Learning
