Supervision Certificate

Supervision Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Supervision Certificate?

A supervision certificate provides a path to improving your skills as a supervisor. It can also prepare you for a new supervisory role. A supervisor plays an integral role in the infrastructure of an organization. It is the supervisor’s job to ensure the operation runs smoothly on behalf of senior leadership.

To be an effective supervisor, one needs strong leadership skills. A good supervisor must motivate others and delegate tasks to complete projects. A supervision certificate shows employers that you have undergone comprehensive skills training. 

What will I learn in the U's Supervision Certificate?

The required courses in the University of Minnesota Supervision Certificate will introduce you to the basics of supervision, such as the ability to influence others and motivate them to work efficiently. You’ll also learn about delegating tasks based on the skill set of your team members, and following up to ensure they are done correctly. 

The U’s Supervision Certificate program also teaches you how to measure work processes and the strengths of the team members. At its core, the job of a good supervisor is about coaching professionals to do their best work.

The elective courses in the program offer options to build new skills and improve your knowledge. For example, you might take a course in diversity and inclusiveness to ensure everyone has equal treatment and each person feels valued and included under your supervision. You can improve your proficiency at writing business reports and proposals and take part in a simulation that gives you real-time feedback on your supervisory style.

Should I take the courses in a certain order?

It’s not required but recommended that you take the core courses in this order: Principles of Supervision, Delegate to Enhance Job Performance, Build Teamwork and Commitment, Measuring and Improving Work Processes, and Coaching for Excellence.

What is the role of a supervisor?

To keep an organization running smoothly and efficiently, a supervisor wears many hats. They are coaches as well as educators, and they help employees develop the skills necessary to do their jobs well. That might include training new employees or introducing new products or tasks to current employees.

Supervisors are advocates for both their employees and their employers. It's their job to do what’s best for both sides. They serve as the go-betweens and are surrogates for employers, representing the brand's goals.

Supervisors are coaches. They may help employees stretch their potential by assigning new projects. They look for innovative ways to motivate their teams and encourage them to succeed. They might have to jump in and help at times to support the team and ensure things continue running smoothly.

How can I become a better supervisor?

Enrolling in the U’s Supervision Certification is a great place to start. The program will enhance and build upon your current leadership skills. You’ll learn proven strategies for assembling and leading a diverse and productive team. You’ll have a chance to improve your written and oral communication. And you’ll get practical tools to coach employees to excellence. 

Sources

• Supervision Certificate (University of Minnesota)
• The Five Roles of a Supervisor (University of Virginia)