This handbook page will guide you through the Calibration Phase, including how to select and enroll in ICs, available specialization options, and key considerations for planning your study path.
Congratulations on completing your Orientation Phase! You are now entering the Calibration Phase, where you have the opportunity to shape your learning journey by selecting Impact Certificates (ICs) that align with your mission, career aspirations, and desired competencies.
What Is the Calibration Phase?
During the Calibration Phase, you will take a series of three-week-long challenges, grouped into Impact Certificates (ICs). Each IC is designed to develop a set of complementary competencies in key areas such as:
- Management
- Sustainability
- Innovation
- Leadership
- Technology
- Entrepreneurship
You can either follow a predefined Specialization Track (👉🏼 find more information on Specialzations here) or customize your learning path by selecting ICs that best support your goals.
Your Learning Journey in Calibration Phase
- 90 ECTS learners: Select three ICs (45 ECTS), either freely or as part of a specialization.
- 60 ECTS learners: Select one IC (15 ECTS) – specialization tracks do not apply.
⏳ Timing: You select your first IC at the start of Calibration Phase. You don’t need to choose all three at once—you can decide as you go, adapting your path based on your evolving interests.
Available Impact Certificates for the Impact MBA
Management
- Leading with Numbers
- Leading towards Sustainable Growth
- Green Marketing and Strategic Communication
- [Sustainability Management, cf. category Sustainability]
Sustainability
- Foundations of Climate Sciences
- Improve the Global Impact of Your Organization
- Sustainability Management
- Climate Accounting and Reporting
Innovation
- Innovation Strategies for Business Transformation
- [Leading with Numbers, cf. category Management]
Leadership
- Think and Act Like a Leader
- Mental Health & Well-Being
- Inclusive Leadership & Diversity Management
Technology
- Clean Energy & Green Tech
- New Technologies
- AI for Everyone
- Data Mastery for Everyone
Entrepreneurship
- Get Funding Ready
- Prototype Impactful Solutions
How to Select Your Impact Certificates
Choosing your ICs is an important step in your MBA journey. To help you make an informed decision, follow these steps:
1️⃣ Explore Available Impact Certificates
- Check the ToU Schedule: Look for ICs tagged with IMBA—these are available for your program. Make sure to check with ICs are available in which Block according to your Calibration Phase.
- Review the Challenge Introductions: Explore the videos, capstone projects, and competencies covered in each IC via the Learning App.
2️⃣ Consider Your Career Goals and Competencies
Ask yourself:
🔹 Which competencies will help me achieve my mission and career goals?
🔹 Do I want to follow a Specialization Track, or do I prefer a flexible, self-curated learning path?
🔹 Are there competencies I want to develop now vs. topics I can explore in the future?
3️⃣ Use Available Resources to Make a Decision
If you’re unsure which ICs to choose, consider:
- Looking at Specialization Tracks: These outline recommended ICs for specific career pathways.
- Talking to Your Peers: Connect with your mission group and past learners for insights.
- Seeking Inspiration from Future Roles: Check the potential career paths associated with different ICs.
4️⃣ Enroll in Your Impact Certificates
Once you've decided:
✅ Select your IC(s) in the App
✅ Enroll in each of its three challenges (⚠️ you have to select cohorts for each challenge of an IC. Only enrolling for the IC does NOT sign you up for the challenges!)
✅ Ensure you receive calendar invites for live sessions (sent out automatically with signup in the App)
✅ Join the Slack channels for your challenges (linked in the Learning App, top right corner of each challenge introduction page)
FAQ: Common Questions About Calibration Phase
📌 How many Impact Certificates do I need to take?
- 90 ECTS program: You must complete three ICs (45 ECTS).
- 60 ECTS program: You must complete one IC (15 ECTS).
📌 Can I take ICs from different areas?
Yes! You can mix ICs across management, sustainability, innovation, leadership, technology, and entrepreneurship—or follow a specialization.
📌 What does my Diploma say depending which ICs I take?
Your official degree title is: MBA in Sustainability, Innovation, and Leadership
For 90 ECTS learners, there are two options:
1️⃣ Customized Track: Choose any three ICs. Your diploma remains "MBA in Sustainability, Innovation, and Leadership", and your ICs will be listed on your Transcript of Records (ToR).
2️⃣ Specialization Track: Follow a predefined pathway with 2-3 mandatory ICs. Your diploma will read:
"MBA in Sustainability, Innovation, and Leadership with specialization in [Track Name]"
Example – If you choose the New Work & Organizational Psychology specialization, your required ICs are:
- Mental Health & Well-Being
- Inclusive Leadership & Diversity Management
- One additional IC of your choice (e.g., Leading the Change)
📌 Do I need to choose all my ICs at once?
No! You can start with one IC and decide on the next ones as you progress.
📌 Where do I find available ICs?
Check the ToU Schedule and look for ICs tagged with IMBA.
📌 How do I enroll in an IC?
1️⃣ Check the ToU Schedule for available ICs.
2️⃣ Enroll in the Impact Certificate and its three challenges via the Learning App.
3️⃣ Join the associated Slack channels.
📌 Can I switch ICs after enrolling?
Yes, if you have not missed out on the Kick-Off Live Session yet. Please submit a ticket via the ToU Support Chat. We're currently working on a solution to let you un-enroll yourself. Stay tuned!
📌 What happens if I don’t finish an IC in time, i.e. miss the 4-week grace period?
The same system applies as if you'd fail a challenge: you have to retake the challenge once it's offered again. As in Calibration, this might be up to 6 months until this happens, we highly recommend you to stay on track. If this should be the case nevertheless, see our Learner Success Manager during their Office Hours to work out a solution:
Mon, 12-13h CET | Tue, 9-10h CET | Wed, 12-13h CET
Location: https://cosmos.video/v/i14v-vwdj-ednx/tomorrow-university/r/academic-office