Certification:
Executive Communication Skills

The Certification in Executive Communication Skills is designed to give students a broad communication background critical to leadership success within organizations. The emphasis focuses on building expertise in verbal as well as non-verbal forms of communication while preparing professionals to communicate effectively to groups inside and outside of the organization. This Certification is offered on the graduate level and may be completed in conjunction with the Master of Arts in Professional Development and the Master of Science in Human Relations & Business.

Communication is a core leadership function. Business leaders need effective communication skills in many different relationships at the organizational level, in groups and communities, and even on a global scale. Being able to express ideas clearly and share information with a variety of audiences is essential, so good executive development focuses on communication skills and their importance in the workplace.

Certification Guide (PDF)

What is the Executive Communication Skills Certification?

Amberton University offers a Certification in Executive Communication Skills as part of your ongoing adult education. These courses are designed to provide a solid foundation in communication that’s key to leadership success. This certification focuses on building expertise in both verbal and nonverbal communication as well as teaching students to communicate effectively in and out of the organization. We offer the Executive Communication Skills Certification on the graduate level in conjunction with our Master of Science in Human Relations & Business. We offer Professional Development as a Master’s degree program, and as a stand-alone certification.

What Are the Requirements?

Students completing this certification must complete 12 credit hours across four specific courses:

• Persuasion: Review the major theories of persuasion and application of these theories. Key topics include the psychology of persuasion, motivational appeals, source credibility, propaganda, and social campaigns.
• Nonverbal Communication: Explore the effects of nonverbal communication, such as facial expressions, eye movement, behavior, appearance, and dress, on the communication process.
• Public Relations: Study the ways individuals and businesses represent themselves to their audiences.
• Managerial Communication: Develop a greater understanding of the relationships between management and communication and build the tools you need to improve your executive communication skills.

Who Are the Ideal Candidates?

Successful executive leaders possess a range of specific qualities that help them achieve their organizational and career goals. The ideal candidates for executive leadership roles that require strong communication skills include:

• Confidence. Confidence is a vital aspect of a strong executive presence. To be successful, you must exude confidence both in what you say and in how you say it. Strong communication comprises all aspects, from verbal communication to eye contact to body language to what you wear and how you present yourself.
• Composure. Self-awareness and empathy for others are key components of executive presence. Good leaders can control their own emotions as well as recognize and respond effectively to emotions in others.
• Charisma. A good communicator is engaging and charismatic. People with excellent executive communication skills can draw others to them, often through strong listening skills and the ability to focus on the other person and stay “in the moment.”

Which Industries Does This Apply To?

Every industry across a wide range of positions need people with a background in communication. Just a few examples of possible job titles include Community Relations Director, Editor, Quality Inspector, Wedding Consultant, Accreditation Specialist, Special Events Coordinator, Training Specialist, Human Resources Director, Student Services Director, Account Manager, Market Researcher, Communication Consultant, Company Spokesperson, Marketing Communication Manager, and many more.

Specific Amberton Degree Offerings

We offer a range of courses and programs for those seeking ongoing adult education. Whether you want to make yourself more marketable in your current field or would like to change paths entirely, we can help. In addition to our Executive Communication Skills Certification, we also offer a variety of other certifications, such as Christian Counseling, Diversity Awareness, Project Management, and Conflict Management and Resolution. These certifications are designed to complement our graduate and undergraduate degree programs, such as BA in Professional Development, BBA in Accounting, MA in Marriage and Family Therapy, and MBA in General Business. At Amberton, it’s our goal to provide accessible ongoing adult education for working individuals who need flexible class schedules and formats as well as affordable tuition. Contact us today to learn more.

Hours Required: 12

Courses:

COM5405 - Persuasion

The course presents the major theories of persuasion and helps students apply them. Key topic areas include credibility, motivation, social campaigns, manipulation, audience analysis, and adaptation.

CAVEAT: No graduate credit will be awarded if COM4405 has been successfully completed.

COM5407 - Nonverbal Communication

The course investigates the impact of nonverbal behavior on the communication process. It explores how the environment, space, dress, appearance, movement, facial expressions, eye behavior, and chronemics affect communication.  The cultural context of nonverbal communication is considered. Special attention is given to nonverbal research and analysis.

CAVEAT: No graduate credit will be awarded if COM4407 has been successfully completed.

COM5445 - Public Relations

The course examines the messages individuals and organizations send to their respective publics.  Public relations is a communication function within the organization which addresses internal and external audiences.

CAVEAT: No graduate credit will be awarded if COM4445 has been successfully completed.

COM5469 - Managerial Communication

The course explores the relationship between management and communications, providing the students with the tools to improve their organizational communication skills.  Topics include effective application of managerial and communication skills, motivational theories, management theories, and communication theories.

CAVEAT: No graduate credit will be awarded if COM3469 has been successfully completed.