Accelerate your NED career with the Diploma in Corporate Governance
University credit-rated. Globally recognised. Boardroom ready.
Equip yourself with the practical training and strategic ability to excel as a non-executive director.
- University credit-rated
- World class faculty
- Flexible learning
- Global alumni network
- Best institute of the year 2024
View course demo
- University credit-rated
- World class faculty
- Flexible learning
- Global alumni network
- Best institute of the year 2024
Download brochure
Why Take This Course?
Gain practical, real-world governance training designed for today’s boardrooms. The diploma offers expertly designed, practical training in corporate governance. Open to professionals who believe in better governance as a driver of growth and integrity. No gatekeeping, no exclusive circles.
You will benefit by
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Building confidence in boardroom decision-making and oversight
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Learning strategic leadership from experienced governance experts
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Gaining insights you can apply immediately as an NED
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Earning a respected credential without needing peer approval
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Joining a global network of NEDs and governance-focused professionals
University validated by
Trusted by NEDs from leading organisations
Join a global network of certified professionals from industry-leading organisations
Learn more about the Diploma in Corporate Governance
Module 1: Introduction to corporate governance
- Build a solid understanding of what corporate governance is, its history and how it benefits organisations around the world.
- Identify the fundamental principles of good governance, its key indicators and the role of leadership in good corporate governance.
- Describe basic governance structures and the relationships between key actors within this structure.
- Explore the global trends of ESG, emerging technology such as AI and diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) and how they’re influencing corporate governance.
- Understand the relationship between company law, shareholders, the board and the executive, and the governance handbook.
Module 2: The company directore
- Look at the duties and responsibilities of a director to fully understand what’s involved in making a real impact.
- Describe a company director's regulatory obligations, the skills of an ideal director, and the appointment and removal process of a company director.
- Fully understand the critical topics of regulation, the governance code and directors and officers insurance in the context of director liability.
- Explore key aspects of board governance, including nomination processes, onboarding considerations, compensation concerns, best practices, evaluation and succession planning.
Module 3: Governance architecture
- Learn why the governance structure of every organisation is unique and why that matters.
- Explore the roles, responsibilities and dynamics among the different members of the board.
- Understand how to develop appropriate governance structures for your organisation.
- Identify and start using the right frameworks for successful good governance.
Module 4: The governance handbook and reporting
- Discover the purpose of the governance handbook and what it needs to include to make governance function effectively daily.
- Explore the essential policies that make up a good governance handbook.
- Elevate your knowledge of why reliable and accurate performance reporting, that includes ESG reporting, is critical for directors.
- Get familiar with what best-in-class and user-friendly financial reporting looks like.
- Understand the link between informed, evidence-based decisions and effective reporting.
- Learn how technology and AI tools are being used to enhance the reporting process.
Module 5: Culture
- Discover how the culture of the organisation is shaped by the board and the executive team through good decision making.
- Learn about the power of aligning the culture of the board with the organisation and its strategy.
- Identify ways to influence the company culture so that it adheres to relatable values and ethics.
- Describe toxic board culture and how to navigate these situations on a board.
Module 6: Strategy
- Clearly understand how to use comprehensive tools for strategy development and implementation, including incorporating ESG strategy.
- Explore the different stages of developing an effective strategy.
- Learn how to implement a strategy that is realistic and achievable.
- Be confident in challenging the strategy where it’s needed.
Module 7: Financial matters
- Be competent in interpreting financial statements presented to the board.
- Examine how to ask the right questions so that your critique of the financial statements is thorough.
- Explore the challenges and resolutions for organisations in difficult financial positions.
- Clearly understand the intersection of ESG investing and financial decision-making.
Module 8: Risk
- Learn the fundamentals of risk and the role of the board in mitigating potential risk.
- Determine what is an appropriate risk response for the board and what is an appropriate risk appetite for the board to have.
- Gain a firm understanding of crisis and reputation management, risk culture, cyber, AI and how to manage ESG risks.
- Be able to provide proper oversight of risk by knowing how to identify emerging trends.
Module 9: Board evaluationss
- Discover why good practices are needed around the ongoing evaluation of the board’s performance, individual directors, and the CEO.
- Learn how to initiate and implement an evaluation of the board internally and how to set up an external evaluation.
- Identify tools, including AI, to carry out evaluations of the board, individual directors and the CEO.
Module 10: The non-executive director (NED)
- Learn how to carefully plan your career move to becoming a NED.
- Identify ways to promote your personal brand through networking and becoming more visible within your peer network.
- Discover how to prepare for interviews and how to carry out detailed research of organisations you may consider working with.
- You need to complete two online assessments to achieve your Diploma in Corporate Governance qualification.
- Each assessment is 90 minutes long.
- Assessment 1 takes place after module 5 and includes 75 multiple-choice style questions.
- Assessment 2 takes place after module 10 and includes 75 multiple-choice style questions.
- You can complete each assessment at a time that suits you.
Module 1: Introduction to Corporate Governance
- Build a solid understanding of what corporate governance is, its history and how it benefits organisations around the world.
- Identify the fundamental principles of good governance, its key indicators and the role of leadership in good corporate governance.
- Describe basic governance structures and the relationships between key actors within this structure.
- Explore the global trends of ESG, emerging technology such as AI and diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) and how they're influencing corporate governance.
- Understand the relationship between company law, shareholders, the board and the executive, and the governance handbook.
Module 2: The Company Director
- Look at the duties and responsibilities of a director to fully understand what’s involved in making a real impact.
- Describe a company director's regulatory obligations, the skills of an ideal director, and the appointment and removal process of a company director.
- Fully understand the critical topics of regulation, the governance code and directors and officers insurance in the context of director liability.
- Explore key aspects of board governance, including nomination processes, onboarding considerations, compensation concerns, best practices, evaluation and succession planning.
Module 3: Governance Architecture
- Learn why the governance structure of every organisation is unique and why that matters.
- Explore the roles, responsibilities and dynamics among the different members of the board.
- Understand how to develop appropriate governance structures for your organisation.
- Identify and start using the right frameworks for successful good governance.
Module 4: The Governance Handbook and Reporting
- Discover the purpose of the governance handbook and what it needs to include to make governance function effectively daily.
- Explore the essential policies that make up a good governance handbook.
- Elevate your knowledge of why reliable and accurate performance reporting, that includes ESG reporting, is critical for directors.
- Get familiar with what best-in-class and user-friendly financial reporting looks like.
- Understand the link between informed, evidence-based decisions and effective reporting.
- Learn how technology and AI tools are being used to enhance the reporting process.
Module 5: Culture
- Discover how the culture of the organisation is shaped by the board and the executive team through good decision making.
- Learn about the power of aligning the culture of the board with the organisation and its strategy.
- Identify ways to influence the company culture so that it adheres to relatable values and ethics.
- Describe toxic board culture and how to navigate these situations on a board.
Module 6: Strategy
- Clearly understand how to use comprehensive tools for strategy development and implementation, including incorporating ESG strategy.
- Explore the different stages of developing an effective strategy.
- Learn how to implement a strategy that is realistic and achievable.
- Be confident in challenging the strategy where it’s needed.
Module 7: Financial Matters
- Be competent in interpreting financial statements presented to the board.
- Examine how to ask the right questions so that your critique of the financial statements is thorough.
- Explore the challenges and resolutions for organisations in difficult financial positions.
- Clearly understand the intersection of ESG investing and financial decision-making.
Module 8: Risk
- Learn the fundamentals of risk and the role of the board in mitigating potential risk.
- Determine what is an appropriate risk response for the board and what is an appropriate risk appetite for the board to have.
- Gain a firm understanding of crisis and reputation management, risk culture, cyber, AI and how to manage ESG risks.
- Be able to provide proper oversight of risk by knowing how to identify emerging trends.
Module 9: Board Evaluations
- Discover why good practices are needed around the ongoing evaluation of the board’s performance, individual directors, and the CEO.
- Learn how to initiate and implement an evaluation of the board internally and how to set up an external evaluation.
- Identify tools, including AI, to carry out evaluations of the board, individual directors and the CEO.
Module 10: The Non-Executive Director (NED)
- Learn how to carefully plan your career move to becoming a NED.
- Identify ways to promote your personal brand through networking and becoming more visible within your peer network.
- Discover how to prepare for interviews and how to carry out detailed research of organisations you may consider working with.
Learning Methods
Discussion Tool
Engage in guided peer discussions to share insights and perspectives on key governance topics
Webinar Videos
Learn from global governance experts through structured, high-quality recorded webinars tailored to each module
Knowledge Check
Test your understanding with short quizzes at the end of each module to reinforce key concepts
Additional Resources
Access a rich library of toolkits, templates, articles, and reports to deepen your knowledge and support real-world application
Case Study Challenge
Apply theoretical learning to practical scenarios through case-based challenges that simulate board-level decision-making
Expert Q&A Interactive Video
Dive into expert-led Q&A sessions embedded in video format, allowing for dynamic learning from real boardroom experience
Learning Experience
Best Practice Insights
Gain real-world insights and apply best practices in corporate governance with strategic board training
Board Simulations
Engage in simulated boardroom scenarios to hone your decision-making skills
Expert Interviews
Learn corporate governance best practices from industry leaders sharing valuable expertise in exclusive interviews
Accessible Learning Platform
Access course materials with ease with our user-friendly, online platform and flexible learning options for board directors
Interactive Engagement
Expand your knowledge and develop real-world boardroom skills through webinars, masterclasses, and vibrant discussion forums
Learning Outcomes
Explore the Principles of Governance
Understand what corporate governance is, why it exists, and the principles that form its foundation across sectors and regions
Decode Governance Structures
Learn how boards, executives, shareholders, and committees interact and how these relationships impact oversight and accountability
Recognise Effective Governance in Practice
Recognise the hallmarks of effective governance through real-world examples and benchmarks
Apply Practical Tools and Frameworks
Use proven models and strategies to strengthen your governance impact and leadership
Prepare for Board-Level Opportunities
Develop the skills, positioning, and confidence to pursue and succeed in board roles
Taught by Boardroom Professionals
You’ll learn from leading corporate governance experts, including board directors, advisors, and academics with decades of global experience. Their focus is to equip you with the insight, frameworks, and leadership mindset needed to navigate complex governance challenges with confidence.
Earn an industry-recognised board director certification through practical, applied training designed to elevate your impact at board level.
Ruth Odih
Assistant Company Secretary at Centrica Plc
Ruth is a key member of the Secretariat Team at Centrica plc. Her experience is in UK and international corporate governance practices.
Stefan Peij
Managing Director at Governance Academy
Stefan is a seasoned board and governance advisor, scholar and lecturer with a focus on board dynamics.
Loretto Callaghan
Non Executive Director
Loretto is a former CEO with non-executive experience in the pharmaceutical, healthcare and medical devices sector across private, subsidiary, state and non-profit boards.
Robert Straw
CEO Zurich of China Europe International Business School
Robert is CEO Zurich of China Europe International Business School where he teaches on the topics of leadership and financial leadership.
Elmarie Van Breda
Financial & Data Risk
Elmarie is a specialist in financial risk and regulation with international experience of diverse cultures.
Bob Semple
Non-executive director
Bob Semple has more than 40 years’ business experience working as an accountant, auditor and management consultant.
Anne-Marie Taylor
Partner, Board Excellence
Anne Marie is a Partner at Board Excellence and a leading non-executive director and board chair.
Sean O’Reilly
Assistant Professor in Accountancy, University College Dublin
Sean, Chartered Accountant and Assistant Professor in Accountancy at University College Dublin.
Hedwige Nuyens
CEO International Banking Federation
Hedwige is Chair of European Women on Boards and is a Member of G7 Gender Equality Advisory Council.
John Koopman
Partner at Spencer Stuart
John is a Partner at Spencer Stuart executive search. He has completed over 400 board of director and CFO recruitments.
We believe professional education in corporate governance should be both accessible and practical. To support this, we offer flexible payment options designed to suit different financial situations, whether you're self-funding or supported by your organisation.
Choose a one-time payment to secure your enrolment in full, or spread the cost over four monthly instalments with no added interest.
Access to Module 1-3
Access to Module 4-5
Access to Module 6-8
Access to Module 9-10
Total €4,995
Access to Modules 1 to 10
Access to Assessment 1 and Assessment 2
Total €4,995
Will your employer sponsor your learning?
Many organisations regularly sponsor employees for this diploma, recognising the value it brings to their governance practices. Companies would support this course because:
- Improves governance, risk and compliance
- Builds strategic and regulatory insight
- Encourages ethical board-level decision-making
- Supports ESG, DE&I, and AI-readiness
- Boosts organisational credibility with certification
Total cost to bear €4,995
Need help presenting your case?
We’ll guide you through the process of approaching your employer for sponsorship, helping you present a strong case for how this course supports both your professional growth and your organisation’s governance goals.
Secure payments powered by Stripe
We believe professional education in corporate governance should be both accessible and practical. To support this, we offer flexible payment options designed to suit different financial situations, whether you're self-funding or supported by your organisation.
Choose a one-time payment to secure your enrolment in full, or spread the cost over four monthly instalments with no added interest.
Secure payments powered by Stripe
Access to Module 1-3
Access to Module 4-5
Access to Module 6-8
Access to Module 9-10
Total €4,995
Access to Modules 1 to 10
Access to Assessment 1 and Assessment 2
Total €4,995
Will your employer sponsor your learning?
Many organisations regularly sponsor employees for this diploma, recognising the value it brings to their governance practices. Companies would support this course because:
- Improves governance, risk and compliance
- Builds strategic and regulatory insight
- Encourages ethical board-level decision-making
- Supports ESG, DE&I, and AI-readiness
- Boosts organisational credibility with certification
Total cost to bear €4,995
Need help presenting your case?
We’ll guide you through the process of approaching your employer for sponsorship, helping you present a strong case for how this course supports both your professional growth and your organisation’s governance goals.
The Diploma in Corporate Governance is designed for current and aspiring non-executive directors and governance professionals. In addition to expert-led content on governance architecture, strategy, culture, risk, and financial oversight, the course includes a dedicated module on the role of the non-executive director.
You will learn how to strategically plan your NED career move, strengthen your personal brand through effective networking, and prepare for interviews by conducting detailed research of organisations you may consider working with.
The Diploma in Corporate Governance has been designed so you can learn at your own pace, in your own time and wherever you want. This 100% online, self-paced corporate governance course and our accessible learning platform give you complete flexibility to create your own learning schedule based on your time availability.
You can access all course materials through the learning platform. You have six months access to your course materials and assessment from the time you enrol.
Have a look at the different course options for each course in the course catalog.
The Diploma in Corporate Governance is broken into 10 modules which take 30 hours to complete. This does not include the supplementary research, study and assessments delegates choose to do. While additional research is not mandatory, we strongly encourage you to engage in this research as it provides additional context to further your understanding of the subject. Up to 200 hours of content is included in this certification
This is a fully self-paced, online corporate governance course. You can access all course materials through the learning platform. You have six months access to your course materials and assessment from the time you enrol.
The course is a highly practical and includes expert teachings from practitioners in global corporate governance education.
This certification is validated by Birkbeck, University of London, which means Birkbeck formally validates this diploma programme, confirming it meets the highest global standard of academic rigour and professional recognition.
As a global corporate governance certification, the course will cover the key principles of company law in common law countries.
These countries include Ireland, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, South Africa, Canada (excluding Quebec), Singapore, Hong Kong and the United States.
The Diploma in Corporate Governance enables existing or potential directors to ask about their specific duties and responsibilities as a director under company law in any common law country.
Yes. While CPD is usually applied by your own awarding body, the Diploma in Corporate Governance should qualify for CPD recognition.
As an example, the Law Society of Ireland (the regulatory body for solicitors in Ireland) states:
“To qualify as CPD, the education/training must relate to law, management and professional development skills or regulatory matters and must be intended to develop the solicitor in his/her professional knowledge, skills and abilities. CPD credit may be claimed for actual time spent in training, minus registration/break times.
Please ensure that the attending solicitors retain suitable proof of CPD (e.g. Certificate of Attendance), as it is required in all instances for solicitors to be credited with CPD.”
Yes, definitely.
We designed this corporate governance certification to demystify and define what it means to be a company director and a boardroom leader. You will learn corporate governance best practices from company directors who share their experiences and knowledge. The case studies are real-world, practical and full of insights. Your resulting corporate governance qualification is globally recognised.
This diploma is ideal for the next generation of leaders who wish to make a positive impact at the highest levels of organisations around the world.
Our delegates and graduates are a multi-talented group of individuals who come together to share their knowledge of board experience. With access to these delegates and graduates, we are confident that you will find the right board that meets your specific requirements and matches your skillset.
Please contact us to discuss your options.
You’ll be taught by world-class corporate governance experts who have one sole purpose: to equip you with real-world boardroom skills and strategic board training.
Meet our faculty members.
You have six months to complete and submit your assessments from the date you enrol in the Diploma in Corporate Governance.
You have six months to complete and submit your assessments from the date you enrol.
When you successfully complete the Diploma in Corporate Governance, you can use the post nominals DipCorpGov on your digital signature and LinkedIn profile.
Have more questions?
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Be part of a global network of board members, executives, and governance leaders committed to driving positive change in their organisations & industries
Upcoming corporate governance course enrolment dates
Self-paced corporate governance course
Access: 6 months
|Delivery: Online
|Price: €4,995 or €1,249 for 1 month/mo
Support while you learn
Starting your corporate governance qualification is clear and straightforward
Join a live orientation session
- Meet other delegates taking the course
- Explore the online learning platform and tools
- Find out about key programme milestones and timelines
- Get familiar with the assessments and grading process
Learning support team
- A friendly, helpful and welcoming team
- Regular email contact to guide you through your programme
- Available to answer your questions
- Helping you get the most out of your programme at every stage
Community benefits also include
Masterclasses
Webinars
Networking
Practical toolkits
Resources
Governance experts
Start with Confidence, Pay with Flexibility
Secure payments powered by Stripe
We offer structured payment options to help you enrol with confidence and clarity. Our payment plans are designed to be accessible and transparent. No hidden fees or long-term commitments.
14-day money-back guarantee
Receive a full refund within 14 days if you choose not to continue
No additional fees or penalties apply to cancellations within this period
Multiple payment options
Pay the full course fee upfront by card or invoice
Choose a monthly instalment plan, split into four interest-free payments
Will your employer sponsor your learning?
Many organisations regularly sponsor employees for this diploma, recognising the value it brings to their governance practices. Companies would support this course because:
- Improves governance, risk and compliance
- Builds strategic and regulatory insight
- Encourages ethical board-level decision-making
- Supports ESG, DE&I, and AI-readiness
- Boosts organisational credibility with certification
Need help presenting your case?
Still have questions? Talk to us today
Get in touch with our dedicated team. We’re here to help you find the right corporate governance certification for your needs so you can achieve your career goals.
Our education consultants are available for free advice
What you’ll talk about on the call
Your background and if the diploma is the right fit
How the course supports your career goals
Core principles & practices of corporate governance
Board responsibilities, ethics & key components
Global governance models and local adaptations
Any other doubts or queries you may have
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