FAQs

How are Smith College Executive Education programs different?

Smith has a strong history and record of developing women leaders. Our executive leadership programs are carefully crafted to respond to the needs of today’s global organizations. The curriculum is based on groundbreaking research, the latest case studies, and the most current information. Each program curriculum is designed to meet specific learning and development goals for women at various career stages and in varied fields. Our program for emerging managers in technology and engineering differs dramatically from our program for women running global companies. Similarly, our program for senior women in engineering differs from our program for women on career paths in biopharma.

Are there distance-learning opportunities available for executives?

You can learn online through Smith College ExecEd Online, our suite of online leadership development courses. Each interactive course is hosted entirely online, available on your schedule, and open to participants regardless of age, gender, and level of career or education.

We host interactive events for our Smith College Executive Education community, including community keynotes and on-site workshops. Additionally, we offer alumnae the opportunity to network with other professional women leaders through online learning circles and through our social media community: LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

Do I earn college credit for attending a Smith College Executive Education program?

Smith College Executive Education offers only non-degree programs. Certificates of Completion are awarded to participants upon successful attendance.

Does Smith College Executive Education offer custom programs?

Yes. Smith Executive Education develops customized learning experiences that create competitive advantage for leading global corporations. Learn more about Smith Custom Programs.

What is the frequency of executive education programs?

Each program in our portfolio of programs is usually offered once a year.

Will there be pre-course work or preparation for me to complete?

Yes. Advance work is an essential part of the learning experience. Faculty members assign advance readings and assessments prior to the program.

How can I ask my supervisor for their support?

For many, it is important or required to have approval before enrolling in a professional development opportunity. 

To gain approval and support before enrolling in a professional development opportunity, you may need to write a letter or submit a form to your supervisor or employer.

We’ve found that the following talking points can be effective for communicating the career benefits of our programs:

• Relevant skills: Smith College Executive Education programs cover current and relevant skills. These top-rated programs are led by world-class faculty and address relevant challenges that women leaders face.
• Immediate value: This certificate program offers research-based knowledge and actionable insights from business school experts and management consultants. All of the tools, frameworks, and strategies I will gain can be immediately applied to our team’s key priorities and projects. I would also be able to present my learnings after completing the program. 
• Ease of access: Smith College Executive Education programs offer high-value learning experiences that are more affordable and accessible than a degree program or for-credit course. These programs are designed to fit into the roles and responsibilities of working professionals.
• Professional development: Participating in this program is an investment in my professional growth as a team member and leader. I will receive skills and practical knowledge to succeed both in my current role and in future opportunities as I advance within our organization.

If you have further questions about presenting our programs for professional development approval, please email our program team at leadership@smith.edu

How do I apply to a program?

To attend a Smith College Executive Education program, please contact us directly; we will guide you through best practices for communicating your interest to your manager, Human Resources, Learning & Development, or Diversity & Inclusion representative.

What are the admissions requirements for Smith College Executive Education programs?

Admission is based on your knowledge, skills, and experience level. We work closely with registrants and their corporate learning and development officers, talent management teams, and women’s leadership initiatives to identify the appropriate program for each person. 

What is company sponsorship?

Many companies send teams of women to programs in order to build their leadership pipeline and take advantage of significant cost savings. Once a company submits the names and contact information of the women selected to attend a Smith program, we’re in touch with them directly with detailed information about the program and on how to access our convenient online registration procedure.

How do I obtain sponsorship from my company?

If you’re an individual woman interested in attending a Smith College Executive Education program but don’t have corporate sponsorship, please contact us. We often work with women on a one-on-one basis to help them gain sponsorship to a program; we may even know the right people to talk to at your company. And if we don’t, we’re happy to speak to whomever you identify as the appropriate people to explore and develop support for your leadership journey.

How are the courses taught?

Classes are taught by esteemed faculty members from top business schools and consultancies. Instructors use case studies, simulations, and their own research to guide learning and discovery.

What is the usual class size?

Most classes have between 30 and 60 participants. Seating is assigned in small groups; participants are mixed around daily to encourage networking.

How much time can I expect to spend on coursework each day?

On average, you will spend about six hours each day in the classroom – attending one to two different faculty sessions – although schedules may vary. The rule of thumb is that each class or case study requires two hours of advance preparation time.

Where do the programs take place?

Unless noted, programs are held on the Smith College campus in Northampton, Massachusetts.

What is included in the program fee?

Unless noted, the program fee includes tuition, single-occupancy hotel accommodations, most meals, and all program materials. Incidentals, such as dry cleaning, entertainment, and the like, are not included in the program fee. Travel is not included.

When is payment due?

Payment is due within 30 days of the invoice date and before the start date of the program. 

What types of payment are accepted?

Payment can be made by company check, electronic bank wire transfer, or credit card (we accept American Express, MasterCard, or Visa). Participants who attend will be asked to provide detailed billing contact and payment information at the time of registration.

What is your cancellation policy?

For our core programs, cancellations submitted less than 30 days before the start date of the program will not be refunded. Cancellations received 60-31 days prior to the start of the program will receive a 25% refund. Cancellations received 61 days or more before the start of the program will receive a 50% refund. Companies are encouraged to find substitute participants within their organizations.

For our shorter, live online programs, cancellations must be submitted in writing three weeks before the start date of the program to receive a full refund.

Our self-directed online program registration fees are non-refundable.

Is financial assistance available?

Financial assistance is not available for our executive education programs. Sponsorship for program attendance comes primarily from corporations; therefore, tuition is generally covered by a participant’s company. However, some participants have received grants or other sources of funding.

By Air

The closest airport is Bradley International (BDL). It is served by most major airlines and is located about 35 miles south of Northampton, near Hartford, Connecticut. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is a two-hour drive to campus. We recommend flying into Bradley if you can, to save yourself time driving to Northampton and the inconvenience of city traffic congestion.

Limousines, buses and rental cars are available at the airport. Transportation to Smith from the Boston or Hartford airports is available from a number of services.

• Affordable Airport Car Service, (413) 739-7293 
• Exclusive Car Service, (413) 534-3505
• Michael’s Limousine Services, (413) 583-6392 or (800) 533-8470
• Valley Transporter, (413) 253-1350 or (800) 872-8752

This listing of area taxi and transportation services does not imply an endorsement by Smith College of any of these businesses.

By Car

• From the South: Northampton is on Route I-91 in Massachusetts. Take Exit 18 and follow Route 5 north into the center of town. The Hotel Northampton is on the left just past the first traffic light (approximately 1 mile).
• From the North: From I-91 South, take Exit 20, and merge onto Route 5 (King Street) south. The Hotel Northampton is on the right (approximately 1.5 miles).
• From the East or West via the Massachusetts Turnpike: Northampton is on Route I-91 North (Mass Pike exit 4). Once on I-91, follow the directions above for visitors from the south.

Car Rental – If you are interested in renting a car locally:

• Enterprise Rent-A-Car, (413) 586-5177 or (800) 831-2847

By Bus

Peter Pan, Greyhound and Vermont Transit serve the area. Most routes go to the main bus terminal in Springfield where you can catch another bus to Northampton. Buses run almost hourly between Springfield and Northampton. The Hotel Northampton and Smith College are a 10-minute walk or a short taxi ride from the bus station. Call (413) 586-1030 for bus schedules.

By Train

Amtrak – (800) 872-7245 – runs trains to Northampton (NHT) and Springfield (SPG). The Hotel Northampton and Smith College are an 8-10-minute walk from the train station in Northampton. From Springfield you can take a bus or get van service to Northampton from Valley Transporter. Valley Transporter requires advance reservations; call (413) 253-1350 or, from the airports or outside the 413 area code, (800) 872-8752.

Are meals provided?

During your time on campus, most meals are provided in Smith’s dining facilities; we try our best to accommodate special dietary needs so please notify us of any allergies or other needs.

Are accommodations available for extended visits or for family members?

Accommodations for early arrivals, late departures, or family members are at your own expense. If you need to arrive a day early or leave a day late you will need to arrange to stay at one of the local hotels in the area:
The Hotel Northampton 
The Fairfield Inn
The Ellery Hotel
The Quality Inn

What is the typical attire for a program?

Business casual attire is requested for classes and meals in our dining facilities during your program. Because dress codes and terminology vary widely among companies and countries, the rule of thumb is to let comfort and professionalism guide you when you’re dressing business casual. Keep in mind, classroom temperatures may vary so we recommend dressing in layers.

What can I expect on the first day?

On the opening day of your program, registration takes place at the hotel or another facility on campus. Most programs will have an opening session and dinner function that same evening. If your travel plans necessitate a late arrival, please be sure to notify us so that alternative registration arrangements can be made for you.

What can I expect on the last day?

Most programs adjourn the evening of the final day. Overnight accommodations may be included. Smith does not make reservations for airport shuttle service, though we can provide a list of available options.

What services are available for participants with disabilities?

Assistance is available for executive education participants with disabilities. If you have any special needs, please let us know in advance.

What can I expect on the first day?

On the opening day of your program, registration takes place at the hotel or another facility on campus. Most programs will have an opening session and dinner function that same evening. If your travel plans necessitate a late arrival, please be sure to notify us so that alternative registration arrangements can be made for you.

What can I expect on the last day?

Most programs adjourn early in the afternoon of the final day to allow participants sufficient time for travel. Transportation to Bradley International Airport is available by reservation from a number of local car services, however, Smith does not make these accommodations.