Certificate in Professional Impact Analysis addresses industry need for thorough impact measurement

Kingston, Ont. – In an era where businesses and governments are increasingly held accountable for their environmental, social and economic impacts, the need for accurate assessment and reporting has never been more critical. While financial returns are well-understood, measuring social and environmental impact often lacks the same rigour.

To address this challenge, the Centre for Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Social Impact (CEISI) at Smith School of Business is offering the Certificate in Professional Impact Analysis (CPIA), a program designed to equip professionals with the tools and knowledge needed to measure and communicate their organization's impact effectively. The CPIA aims to empower private and public sector leaders, managers, analysts, financial professionals and consultants, to define, quantify and report on impact across various initiatives.

The CPIA offers a flexible learning structure, consisting of three online modules, each completed at the student’s own pace over six months. These modules—Impact Foundations, Impact Accounting, and Evaluating and Learning—offer case studies and practical exercises designed by faculty members including Chris Cotton, professor of economics; Bahman Kashi, founder and president of Limestone Analytics and continuing adjunct assistant professor of economics; and Elspeth Murray, associate professor and director of CEISI. Each module culminates in a live, full-day virtual session.

"By systematically tracking and analyzing their impact, businesses gain a competitive edge," says Professor Kashi. "A robust impact accounting framework empowers organizations to make informed decisions, anticipate future trends and adapt to evolving reporting standards."

The program's core content covers areas such as impact measurement, assessment, management, accounting, communication and reporting. It also features a team-based capstone project, where participants work on real-life impact analysis projects from international public and private sector organizations. Participants receive a certified credential from Queen’s University upon completion. 

"The future of business and investment is rooted in impact," says Professor Murray. “By equipping professionals with the tools to measure, manage and communicate impact, they can confidently contribute to sustainable business practices."

The next cohort begins the week of January 13, 2025, with another intake scheduled for July 2025. While there is no formal application deadline, applicants are considered on a rolling basis and classes are expected to fill quickly.

Learn more about CPIA: https://smith.queensu.ca/centres/cpia/index.php