In modern organisations driven by data and AI, the capacity for critical thinking and effective strategic decision-making has become a key differentiator. This course provides professionals with a hands-on set of established decision-making frameworks, critical thinking approaches, and strategic communication techniques that can be put into practice right away in real-world work settings.
Whether you’re transitioning into a leadership position or aiming to refine your strategic judgement, the course supports you in moving past instinct-led choices toward decisions that are structured, transparent, and grounded in sound reasoning.
COURSE LENGTH:
COURSE STRUCTURE:
- Introduction to Critical Thinking and Strategic Decision-Making
- Cognitive Biases and Decision Traps
- Problem Framing
- Evidence-Based Thinking and Evaluating Data
- Analytical Tools for Strategic Leaders
- Systems Thinking, Interconnectedness and Complex Problem Solving
- Decision-Making Frameworks
- Creative Thinking for Strategy
- Risk Assessment and Scenario Planning
- Strategic Communication and Persuasion
- Strategic Discussions and Collaborative Decisions
- Recap and Action Planning
STUDY OPTIONS:
Part Time
1 x 3 hour live online evening class per week over 12 weeks
SUMMARY:
In today’s fast-changing, AI-enabled workplace, the ability to think critically, make sound decisions, and communicate with clarity is essential for effective leadership. This course equips professionals with practical tools and proven frameworks to strengthen strategic thinking and decision-making, helping them navigate complexity with confidence. Rather than relying on instinct alone, learners develop structured approaches that support clear, objective, and well-reasoned decisions in real-world contexts.
Through a highly practical and interactive approach, participants explore how decisions are shaped, how bias can influence judgement, and how to apply the right frameworks to different types of problems. From problem framing and evidence evaluation to risk assessment and strategic communication, learners build a toolkit they can apply directly to their own work each week. The course emphasises action-focused learning, ensuring that new skills are not only understood but immediately put into practice.
Designed for professionals, aspiring managers, and leaders across all sectors, this course supports those looking to strengthen their strategic judgement and influence. By the end, learners will be able to assess risk more effectively, think strategically about complex challenges, and communicate decisions with clarity and persuasion, capabilities that are increasingly valuable for career progression in modern, data-rich organisations.
Learners on this course also gain access to the EBSCO Online Library for the full duration of the course, free of charge. Here, you can browse thousands of relevant journal articles and business texts such as Harvard Business Review, Bloomberg Businessweek, and Forbes Magazine to supplement your learning and assignments.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES:
Learners are better prepared to step into leadership and senior roles, where the ability to assess risk, make well-reasoned decisions, and clearly justify those decisions is essential. It also enhances credibility and influence in any role, enabling professionals to contribute more effectively to strategic discussions, gain stakeholder buy-in, and position themselves for greater responsibility and advancement.
ASSESSMENT AND CERTIFICATION
This course is assessed through an Action Learning Log (25%) and a final Strategic Decision Analysis and Action Plan (75%).
The Action Learning Log asks learners to reflect on the concepts introduced each week to their own professional context, demonstrating understanding and practical transfer of learning.
The Strategic Decision Analysis and Action Plan will apply to a problem within the learners own professional context that applies all the skills covered in the course. The Action Plan is focused on the learner demonstrating rigorous critical thinking and structured decision-making
Your UCD Professional Academy Diploma will be issued electronically on a secure platform, with a link that you can share with employers and others wishing to verify your credentials. You’ll also be able to add the certification to your LinkedIn profile to demonstrate your achievement to your network as well as recruiters and potential employers searching for individuals with your skills and experience.
This course is not on the National Framework of Qualifications.
LEARNER PROFILE:
This course is designed for professionals, aspiring managers, and current leaders who want to strengthen their strategic thinking and decision-making capabilities. It is suitable for individuals across any sector or function who are involved in making decisions, solving complex problems, or influencing outcomes in their organisation. It is particularly valuable for those looking to move into leadership roles, take on greater strategic responsibility, or improve their ability to communicate and justify decisions with clarity and confidence.
