Each of the 10 sessions that comprise this certificate program will focus on a different element of effective professional communication. Designed to be highly interactive, the sessions combine live instruction, small group breakout activities, and Q&A.
In addition to each session, participants will complete assignments in a provided workbook. This includes group pre-work exercises, as well as individual post-work reflections and quizzes to reinforce learning.
Sessions will take place online Wednesdays from 6:00 – 8:00 pm ET.
Note that Session 9 on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, will take place in a hybrid format. This live, truly hybrid Strategic Networking session will be in-person for those able to attend in Toronto, and online for those joining from afar. We will learn about the principles of strategic networking and, whether in person or online, everyone will have the opportunity to practice introducing themselves, to share networking opportunities, and to participate in the open Q&A.
To be eligible for the Certificate of Completion, learners must attain a minimum of 80% class attendance (attend min. 8 / 10 live sessions) and complete all required assignments, including participating in the group presentations in Session 10.
- Session 1: Wednesday, February 4, 2026
Communication Skills Primer
Learn a framework to introduce yourself with confidence, a new way to think about listening, and insights about non-verbal communication.
- Session 2: Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Communicating with Confidence
Fact and myths about imposter syndrome, tactics and mindsets to communicate with confidence.
- Session 3: Wednesday, February 18, 2026
Using AI to Boost Your Communication
Whether you’ve never opened ChatGPT or you use AI everyday, we can all use AI to elevate our communication. Learn a framework to help you prompt AI, plus important do’s and don’ts to help you leverage this emerging technology.
- Session 4: Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Creating Your Professional Identity
Definitions, principles, and benefits of crafting a professional identity, plus your customized personal branding template.
- Session 5: Wednesday, March 4, 2026
Communicating Your Professional Identity
Communicating professional brands across media, directly and indirectly, in person and online.
- Session 6: Wednesday, March 25, 2026
Presentation Skills & Storytelling
Best practices for delivering memorable and effective presentations, in person and online, plus the do’s & don’ts of storytelling and where to find great stories.
- Session 7: Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Demonstrating Leadership
Defining specific opportunities to demonstrate leadership.
- Session 8: Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Communicating in Challenging Contexts & with Difficult People
Strategies for communicating and navigating difficult situations.
- Session 9: Wednesday, April 29, 2026 (In-Person / Hybrid)
Strategic Networking (Hybrid)
Mindsets and strategies to build relationships and a strong network.
- Session 10: Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Communicating in Real Life: Putting Everything into Practice
Practice newly developed communication skills via group presentations.
CPD programs are designed to be interactive and are best experienced live to foster engagement, participation, and dynamic learning. While session recordings may be available for learners who are unable to attend, these recordings are intended solely for review purposes and do not constitute accredited programming. Recordings are provided upon request by contacting cpd.programs@utoronto.ca. Sessions featuring sensitive content or discussion may not be recorded at the discretion of the program director, guest speaker, or facilitator.
