MIT xPRO Advanced Program in Technology Leadership and Innovation

Receive an introduction to the concept of information literacy and various research techniques to help you form conclusions. Assess the strength of evidence and relate evidence to different social and technical factors.

Practice group decision-making processes that focus on convergence and gathering information by using the Pugh Matrix and the Evaluation Matrix. Learn how MIT’s D-Lab applies these matrices into their research to develop and advance practical solutions to global poverty challenges.

Understand the elements of system thinking through a diverse set of self-assessment activities and learning scenarios. Apply these concepts to a personal activity system and a professional activity system of your choice.

Learn how system thinking is applied to a diverse array of applications, including logistics, transportation systems, and computational systems.

Describe the architecture of a system and identify both architectural decisions and non-architectural decisions. Identify the various elements in architecture representations and place these in the context of the overall documentation of the system.

Learn to construct a DSM, either by analyzing the design or by converting a graph of the system. Construct a process architecture DSM and identify how it is different from a design DSM.

Understand the process of tradespace exploration by defining value, a key metric by which designs are compared. Develop a model of value by characterizing a design using attributes and organize these attributes into hierarchies for evaluation and summation.

Learn about the design process of an AI-based product. Analyze the stages of designing an AI process or product from two perspectives: business considerations and technical considerations. This process involves identifying the desired AI behavior, requirements, value, and software development plan.

Learn how to discriminate between different machine learning algorithms. Understand about each topic from theoretical as well as practical points of view. Begin with a discussion of linear classifiers and decision trees and then look at machine learning algorithms that use probabilistic approaches, such as Bayesian or regression models.

Build on the concepts about machine learning, learned in above module to explore the fundamentals of deep learning. Deep learning provides greater flexibility and power in building AI products. Explore the multi-layer perceptron, an advanced structure consisting of multiple layers of artificial neural networks.

Evaluate the four AI design stages and begin with a discussion on defining a superhuman target to match data-gathering efforts, focusing on the challenges of designing an AI product or process. Some of these considerations include how to adequately address technical issues, crowdsource the required data, and address the ethical responsibilities related to the use of human subjects and privacy constraints.

Discover immersive media, including augmented reality, and virtual reality. Learn to differentiate the unique elements of AR, VR, and mixed reality and learn about the software and hardware requirements of each.

Understand the applications of AR/VR in diverse fields such as medicine, military, and education. Learn about AI-enhanced augmented reality and drive innovation using AR/VR powered solutions. Analyze the impact of 5G on AR/VR experience and the long-term impact of COVID-19 on remote and virtual experiences.

Learn about the core concept of quantum computing, its origin, and how it is different from other forms of computing. Compare and contrast classical computers (desktops, laptops, tablets, cloud servers, etc.) with quantum computers. Learn about the timeline for quantum computing and explore the types of problems that are a challenge for classical computers, but can be efficiently solved on a quantum computer.

Get an introduction to radical innovation, a concept that is diametrically opposed to incremental innovation. Learn the core features of technical innovation in the modern world and the philosophy and strategies needed in an organization to execute various forms of innovation.

Understand the factors that pose a threat to innovation, both internal and external. Explore concepts such as super technologies, business model innovation, and developing your innovation pipeline.

Understand the most important elements of how to innovate. Explore different methodologies such as Lean and Agile for executing innovation, and learn about testing, rapid prototyping, and design to lead innovation within your organization.

Recognize the key elements of strategy, the precursors to strategy, and the influence of strategy on products. Analyze the impact of technological changes on organizational strategy and apply strategic thinking for gaining competitive advantage.

Learn how to create, staff, and mobilize the people and resources needed to effectively launch new project teams and improve existing ones. Examine strategies for managing three main types of group conflict: task-related conflict, relational conflict, and process conflict.

Explore different strategies to increase effectiveness and to build teams in a productive way. Learn to architect an effective organization that supports teams and teams' success. Implement post-mortems to capture lessons learned and build future capability in teamwork.

Get introduced to organizational networks and learn about the different categories of networks like social network, closed network, and open network. Identify the key players, their roles, and importance while leading change within an organization.

The capstone project uses the six pillars as the cornerstone of an authentic technology management project aligned to your current or aspirational technology leader role. The final capstone applies learning from each pillar to solve a challenge with practical applications. You will be able to design a project that can be integrated into your real-world setting.

How much time is required each week?

Each leadership course includes an estimated learner effort per week. This is referenced at the top of the program landing page under the Duration section, as well as in the program brochure, which you can obtain by submitting the short form at the top of this web page.

How will my time be spent?

We have designed this technology leadership program to fit into your current working life as efficiently as possible. Time will be spent among a variety of activities including:

• Engaging with recorded video lectures from faculty

• Attending webinars and office hours, as per the specific program schedule

• Reading or engaging with examples of core topics

• Completing knowledge checks/quizzes and required activities

• Engaging in moderated discussion groups with your peers

• Completing your final project, if required

The technology leadership program is designed to be highly interactive while also allowing time for self-reflection and to demonstrate an understanding of the core topics through various active learning exercises. Please email us if you need further clarification on program activities.

What is it like to learn online with the learning collaborator, Emeritus?

More than 300,000 learners across 200 countries have chosen to advance their skills with Emeritus and its educational learning partners. In fact, 90 percent of the respondents of a recent survey across all our programs said that their learning outcomes were met or exceeded. All the contents of the course would be made available to students at the commencement of the course. However, to ensure the program delivers the desired learning outcomes the students may appoint Emeritus to manage the delivery of the program in a cohort-based manner the cost of which is already included in the overall course fee of the course. A dedicated program support team is available 24/5 (Monday to Friday) to answer questions about the learning platform, technical issues, or anything else that may affect your learning experience.

How do I interact with other technology leadership program participants?

Peer learning adds substantially to the overall learning experience and is an important part of the technology and innovation program. You can connect and communicate with other participants through our learning platform.

What is the relationship between Emeritus and MIT xPRO?

Emeritus and MIT xPRO collaborate to create and deliver educational programs. None of these programs are Title IV-eligible.

What are the requirements to earn the certificate?

Each leadership course includes an estimated learner effort per week, so you can gauge what will be required before you enroll. This is referenced at the top of the program landing page under the Duration section, as well as in the technology and innovation program brochure, which you can obtain by submitting the short form at the top of this web page. All programs are designed to fit into your working life. This program is scored as a pass or no-pass; participants must complete the required activities to pass and obtain the certificate of completion. Some programs include a final project submission or other assignments to obtain passing status. This information will be noted in the technology and innovation program brochure. Please email us if you need further clarification on any specific program requirements.

What type of certificate will I receive?

Upon successful completion of the technology and innovation program, you will receive a smart digital certificate. The smart digital certificate can be shared with friends, family, schools, or potential employers. You can use it on your cover letter, resume, and/or display it on your LinkedIn profile. The digital certificate will be sent approximately two weeks after the program, once grading is complete.

Can I get the hard copy of the certificate after completing this MIT xPRO Technology Leadership and Innovation program?

No, only verified digital certificates will be issued upon successful completion. This allows you to share your credentials on social platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.

Do I receive alumni status after completing this MIT xPRO Technology Leadership and Innovation program?

No, there is no alumni status granted for this program. In some cases, there are credits that count toward a higher level of certification. This information will be clearly noted in the program brochure.

How long will I have access to the learning materials for this strategic leadership program?

You will have access to the online learning platform and all the videos and program materials for 12 months following the program start date. Access to the learning platform is restricted to registered participants per the terms of agreement.

What equipment or technical requirements are there for this strategic leadership program?

Participants will need the latest version of their preferred browser to access the learning platform. In addition, Microsoft Office and a PDF viewer are required to access documents, spreadsheets, presentations, PDF files, and transcripts.

Do I need to be online to access the MIT xPRO Technology Leadership and Innovation program content?

Yes, the learning platform is accessed via the internet, and video content is not available for download. However, you can download files of video transcripts, assignment templates, readings, etc. For maximum flexibility, you can access program content from a desktop, laptop, tablet, or mobile device. Video lectures must be streamed via the internet, and any livestream webinars and office hours will require an internet connection. However, these sessions are always recorded, so you may view them later.

Can I still register if the registration deadline has passed?

Yes, you can register up until seven days past the published start date of the program without missing any of the core program material or learnings.

What is the technology leadership program fee, and what forms of payment do you accept?

The program fee is noted at the top of this program web page and usually referenced in the program brochure as well.

• Flexible payment options are available (see details below as well as at the top of this program web page next to FEE).

• Tuition assistance is available for participants who qualify. Please fill up the short form.

What if I don’t have a credit card? Is there another method of payment accepted?

Yes, you can do the bank remittance in the program currency via wire transfer or debit card. Please contact your program advisor, or email us for details.

I was not able to use the discount code provided. Can you help?

Yes! Please email us with the details of the program you are interested in, and we will assist you.

How can I obtain an invoice for payment?

Please email us your invoicing requirements and the specific program you’re interested in enrolling in.

Is there an option to make flexible payments for this MIT xPRO Technology Leadership and Innovation program?

Yes, the flexible payment option allows a participant to pay the program fee in installments. This option is made available on the payment page and should be selected before submitting the payment.

Who will be collecting the payment for the MIT xPRO Technology Leadership and Innovation program?

Emeritus collects all program payments, provides learner enrollment and program support, and manages learning platform services.

Refund Policy

• Policy Communication:

  Emeritus’ Withdrawal, Refund and Deferral policies are communicated to all learners (both existing and prospective) via the Emeritus website and Learning Management System. It is the learner’s responsibility to review, be aware of and adhere to these policies.

• Withdrawal for Non-delivery of Course:

  Emeritus will notify learners in writing if (a) the course will not commence on the scheduled course commencement date; (b) the course will not be completed by the scheduled course completion date; or (c) the learner does not meet the course entry or matriculation requirement as set by Emeritus or the university. Within three (3) working days of such notice, Emeritus will inform learners in writing of any available alternative study arrangements.

If a learner declines the offered alternative study arrangements, if any, or desires to otherwise withdraw from the course for the reasons stated in paragraph 2 above, the learner shall request a withdrawal from Emeritus within fifteen (15) calendar days. Upon receipt of the withdrawal request and validation of eligibility, Emeritus shall refund the learner 100% of course and miscellaneous fees previously paid by the learner, except that course application fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. Emeritus shall use commercially reasonable efforts to make such refund within seven (7) working days from receipt of the withdrawal request from learner.

• Withdrawal for Other Reasons:

  If the learner wishes to withdraw from the course or program for any reason other than those stated in paragraph 2 above, the following provisions shall control all withdrawal requests:

Absent a previous approved request for deferral for the course, learners may request a full refund of all course and miscellaneous fees paid, within fourteen (14) days after course commencement. Application fees for courses are non-refundable and non-transferable. Learners who have previously been granted a course deferral are not eligible for a refund for the course. Partial (or pro-rated) refunds are not offered. Emeritus shall use commercially reasonable efforts to make a valid refund within seven (7) working days from receipt of the withdrawal request from learner.

Emeritus reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to dismiss a learner from a course or program at any time and to provide a refund to the learner pursuant to the stated refund policy in paragraph 2 above. Learners who are dismissed from a course or program due to a violation of Emeritus’ Code of Conduct are not entitled to any refund.

• How to Submit a Valid Withdrawal Request:

  All withdrawal requests must be sent in writing within the timelines specified in paragraphs 2 or 3 above to:

  admissions@emeritus.org

All refunds will be paid directly to the original payer only, unless written and signed instruction is provided by the original payer to pay the refund to an account belonging to a person other than the original payer.

• Bank Charges/Transaction Fees:

  In the event of an approved refund, Emeritus will refund the course fee collected and will not be liable to refund any foreign transaction fees, processing charges, or any other bank fees.

The program offers live sessions on Agentic AI, enterprise strategy, and responsible tech governance, along with GenAI tool demos and modules on AI-based product design and business problem-solving. Leaders also apply these insights in a capstone project, with optional resources for deeper exploration of GenAI strategy and governance.