Course Overview
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the essential steps, tools, and best practices for developing and implementing a strategic plan that aligns with an organization's mission, vision, and values. Participants will learn how to assess their organization's current state, define strategic priorities, set measurable goals, and create an action plan for achieving those goals. Emphasizing real-world application, the course incorporates case studies, interactive activities, and practical examples to prepare participants to lead effective strategic planning processes.
Course Details
Format: Online, asynchronous
Duration: 6 weeks
Time Commitment: Approximately 12 hours of instruction plus assignments
Course Start Dates:
- October 26 - December 6, 2026
- January 4 - February 14, 2027
- April 5 - May 16, 2027
Cost: $449
Available Discounts
- Current Trent University Undergraduate students qualify for a 25% discount. Contact microcredential@trentu.ca for details.
- Trent University alumni receive a 10% discount. Contact alumni@trentu.ca for details.
Only one discount may be applied per registration.
Credential Earned: Digital Badge
Course Instructor: Carey McMaster, Capacity Building Specialist
Registration
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Note for Trent University Staff
Permanent OPSEU employees at Trent University are now eligible for tuition waivers for Trent University micro-credential courses. Please do not register or pay through this page. Visit Support → Human Resources / Payroll / Waivers → Micro-Credential - Staff for waiver and registration instructions.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the role of strategic planning in advancing an organization's mission and long-term sustainability.
- Conduct an organizational assessment to evaluate current strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT).
- Develop or refine mission, vision, and values statements to guide strategic direction.
- Identify and prioritize strategic goals that align with organizational needs and stakeholder expectations.
- Establish measurable objectives and performance indicators to track progress and impact.
- Create an actionable strategic plan that includes timelines, resource allocation, and accountability structures.
- Engage stakeholders effectively throughout the strategic planning process.
- Apply strategic planning tools and frameworks to real-world scenarios through case studies and exercises.
- Adapt planning approaches for small to mid-sized organizations with limited resources.
Assessment Requirements
To earn the micro-credential, participants must successfully complete:
- Complete lesson quizzes, assignments, and reflections.
- Participate in online discussions.
Tax Receipt Information
Students may be eligible to receive a T2202 Tuition and Enrolment Certificate if their micro-credential meets Canada Revenue Agency requirements.
To qualify, students must meet the following criteria:
- Be enrolled in a qualifying educational program that provides at least 12 hours of instruction within a calendar month.
- Pay a minimum course fee of $150.
Not receive a grant, reimbursement, benefit, or allowance for the program from an arm’s length party that would make the program ineligible under CRA guidelines.
Earn a Digital Badge
Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a verified digital badge that can be shared on LinkedIn, resumes, portfolios, and professional profiles.