At the Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security (LDNS) Lab, we believe effective leadership begins with character. Our professional certificates combine practitioner expertise, global literacy, diplomacy, and leadership development to prepare participants for today's interconnected world.
Character-Driven Leadership
Character-driven leadership is a commitment to do the right thing, the right way, for the right reasons.
This commitment is how leaders earn trust. Our programs prepare participants to lead with integrity, ethical judgment, accountability, humility, courage, and service—qualities that build trust, strengthen organizations, and positively impact communities.
Learn Directly from Distinguished Practitioners
One of the defining features of LDNS programs is the opportunity to engage directly with former U.S. ambassadors, senior military leaders, and distinguished practitioners through live, interactive discussions. Participants are encouraged to ask questions, exchange ideas, and gain firsthand insights from leaders whose careers have shaped diplomacy, national security, business, and public service.
Featured Practitioners
Interactive Learning
Our programs encourage active participation through live, discussion-based masterclasses where participants engage directly with former U.S. ambassadors, senior military leaders, and distinguished practitioners. Through meaningful dialogue and discussion, participants ask questions, exchange ideas, and gain firsthand insights from leaders whose experiences are rarely accessible through traditional online programs.
The Certificate in Leadership Excellence is offered as a flexible, self-paced online program, allowing participants to learn at their own pace while strengthening the principles of character-driven leadership.
Leading in an Interconnected World
Today's leaders must understand an increasingly interconnected world. Through global literacy, diplomacy, and leadership education, LDNS prepares participants to navigate complexity, communicate across cultures, and lead with confidence.
Professional Recognition
LDNS professional certificates are offered through ASU CareerCatalyst and are designed for students, professionals, and lifelong learners seeking to strengthen their leadership capabilities.
While these certificates do not carry academic credit, they provide professional development credentials that demonstrate your commitment to continued learning and can be showcased on résumés, LinkedIn profiles, and professional portfolios.
Designed for Individuals and Organizations
LDNS professional certificates are designed for students, working professionals, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, military personnel, and businesses seeking to strengthen leadership capacity across their teams.
Whether developing emerging leaders or investing in professional development, organizations benefit from practical learning experiences grounded in character-driven leadership, global literacy, diplomacy, and real-world practitioner expertise.
Organizations interested in customized cohort-based professional development opportunities are encouraged to contact Kathy Cook at [email protected].
Individuals with questions about certificate programs or registration may contact Kristi Hickman at [email protected].
Explore Our Certificates
Each certificate develops a different dimension of effective leadership. Explore the certificate that best aligns with your professional goals.
Certificate in Leadership Excellence
Develop the character, judgment, and leadership skills needed to lead with integrity, purpose, and trust.
Global Literacy and Impact Certificate
Develop the global awareness, cultural intelligence, and strategic perspective needed to lead effectively in today's interconnected world.
Practical Diplomacy and International Leadership Certificate
Develop the practical diplomacy, negotiation, and leadership skills needed to lead effectively in today's complex global environment.