Stop guessing whether your leadership programs actually work.
Demystifying Measurement in Leader Development is a rigorous, practice-based online course that gives higher education and leader development professionals the tools to measure, improve, and defend the impact of their programs.
The application period for the Fall 2026 Demystifying Measurement in Leader Development cohort has ended.
Applications for our Fall 2027 cohort will open April 1, 2027. In the meantime, download the Demystifying Measurement Information Packet to learn more about the program. By downloading the packet, you will also receive updates when Information Session registration opens and when the Fall 2027 application cycle begins.
Download the Information Packet and stay connected for Fall 2027.
THE PROBLEM
You know your program makes a difference. But can you prove it?
Most leadership professionals are asked to justify their programs with data they don't have, using methods they were never taught. The result: programs defended only by anecdotes, budgets that are vulnerable to cuts, and students who miss out on development that could actually help them grow as leaders.
"I know our students are growing — but I can't quantify it for the dean."
"We collect surveys at the end of every program. I have no idea what to do with the data."
"Leadership development is always first on the chopping block because we can't show ROI."
WHAT YOU'LL LEAVE WITH
Practical tools. Real deliverables. Immediate application.
This isn't just an abstract theory course. Every module gives you tools you'll actually use, culminating in a tangible assessment plan tailored to your unique context.
- Validated Measurement Tools—learn to identify and apply instruments that actually measure leadership growth, not just satisfaction or attendance.
- Language that persuades stakeholders—translate data into compelling narratives for deans, boards, clients, and budget committees.
- A professional digital credential—earn a badge from the Doerr Institute at Rice University, a nationally recognized name in evidence-based leader development.
- A Custom Impact Assessment Plan—our capstone project is a ready-to-use evaluation framework for a real program at your own institution.
WHY THIS COURSE
Customized measurement training for applied leader development
- 1:1 consultation included—get personalized feedback from Dr. Aaron Pomerantz, a dedicated measurement expert, not just pre-recorded lectures.
- No statistics background needed—core measurement concepts made accessible and immediately usable, regardless of your quantitative background.
- Designed for busy professionals—online, flexibility with structured milestones, built for people running programs while taking the course.
- Carnegie Classification ready—the applied work in this course directly supports institutions preparing for Carnegie Classification for Leadership for Public Purpose applications.
INFO SESSIONS
See the course before you commit
Interested in Demystifying Measurement in Leader Development?
Join us for a virtual Info Session to learn more about the program, what to expect, and get your questions answered.
Info Sessions will be held June–August 2027, with registration opening April 1, 2027.
Check back on April 1st to register and take the first step toward joining our Fall 2027 cohort.
WHO ENROLLS
Made for the people who run programs, not just study them
If you design, deliver, fund, or evaluate leader development — and you want to be able to defend what you do with evidence — this course is for you.
- Student affairs professionals
- Academic leadership faculty
- Assessment coordinators
- Executive coaches
- Leader development program managers
- Graduate students (Ed, Psych, Business)
- Consultants & facilitators
- Campus program administrators
Designed with both rigor and practicality in mind, this course delivers exactly what it promises. Rather than offering abstract or generic advice, the course provides a highly actionable framework rooted in evidence-based practice.
— Dr. Kimberly Black
Director for Student Leadership & Strategic Initiatives
Baylor University
COURSE DETAILS
Course schedule and important dates
Sessions will convene virtually on Fridays from 12:00 to 3:00 PM (Central Standard Time) over a six-week period, followed by an additional four to six weeks dedicated to the completion of the culminating project.
Fall 2027 Program Details Coming Soon.
The full Fall 2027 Demystifying Measurement in Leader Development curriculum, program dates, and schedule will be released on April 1, 2027.
Check back on April 1st for full program details and everything you need to plan for the Fall 2027 cohort.
How to Apply
Fall 2026 Applications Have Closed.
The application period for the Fall 2026 Demystifying Measurement in Leader Development cohort has ended.
Applications for our Fall 2027 cohort will open April 1, 2027. In the meantime, download the Demystifying Measurement Information Packet to learn more about the program. By downloading the packet, you’ll also receive updates when Information Session registration opens and when the Fall 2027 application cycle begins.
Download the Information Packet and stay connected for Fall 2027.
Questions? Email leadership@rice.edu for questions about the course.