Strategic thinking course curriculum

In courses focused on strategic thinking, learners study various business-related topics. Here are some examples:

• Strategic analysis: Learners delve into the process of analyzing complex business situations, understanding industry dynamics, and identifying key drivers of success. This topic hones critical thinking skills, data analysis abilities, and the capacity to evaluate strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT).

• Competitive strategy: Learners look at how businesses can gain a competitive advantage in the market. Additionally, learners get to know about the different strategic frameworks and tools used to assess competitive dynamics, identify market gaps, and develop strategies to differentiate organizations. Lessons in competitive strategy foster skills in market analysis, strategic positioning, and identifying sustainable competitive advantages.

• Strategic planning: Learners gain insights into the process of formulating and implementing strategies to achieve organizational goals. They learn how to set clear objectives, develop action plans, allocate resources effectively, and track progress. In studying strategic planning, learners can build skills in strategic goal setting and project management.

• Innovation and change management: Learners explore the importance of innovation in driving strategic success and managing change within organizations. They study techniques for fostering a culture of innovation, identifying disruptive trends, and managing resistance to change. This topic area is particularly useful for professionals hoping to spearhead organizational transformation.

• Strategic leadership: Learners focus on the role of leadership in strategic decision-making and execution by examining effective leadership styles, communication strategies, and ways to align an organization's vision with strategic objectives. Outcomes include improved leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Strategic thinking is valuable across various industries. With online courses offered by edX, you can develop career-critical skills that empower you to make a real-world impact. Starting with a bachelor’s degree in business, or a related field, can provide a foundational knowledge in your area of interest. A master’s degree provides an opportunity to delve into key concepts, principles, and frameworks at an advanced level. There are also more accelerated, hands-on learning options such as executive education courses and accelerated boot camps.

Explore the learning path that suits you best with edX.

Explore strategic thinking jobs

Strategic thinking professionals share similar goals and responsibilities. Here are some examples of strategic thinking jobs and their key duties:

• Strategy manager: Develops and implements strategic initiatives, conducts market research, analyzes competitive landscapes, and identifies growth opportunities. This person collaborates with several stakeholders to align business goals with strategic objectives.^{Footnote 2}

• Business development manager: Identifies and pursues new business opportunities, evaluates potential partnerships and acquisitions, conducts market analysis, and develops strategies to expand the organization's market presence.^{Footnote 3}

• Management consultant: Advises clients on strategic decision-making, conducts industry research, analyzes business processes, and recommends improvements to enhance performance and achieve strategic objectives.^{Footnote 4}

• Product manager: Defines product strategies, conducts market research, identifies customer needs, and oversees the product development life cycle. These professionals collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure successful product launches and ongoing growth.^{Footnote 5}

• Chief financial officer (CFO): Develops financial strategies and forecasts, assesses investment opportunities, manages financial risks, and ensures the alignment of financial goals with overall business objectives.^{Footnote 6}

• Operations manager: Optimizes operational processes, identifies efficiency improvements, analyzes data to drive decision-making, and implements strategic initiatives to enhance productivity and profitability.^{Footnote 7}

• Marketing manager: Develops and executes marketing strategies, conducts market research, identifies target audiences, and oversees promotional campaigns to enhance brand visibility and drive business growth.^{Footnote 8}

Take online courses offered by edX and build the skills to make informed decisions that contribute to the long-term success of your organization.