Introducing Specialist

MICRODEGREES

Experts set the bar for mastery. You clear it.

  1. 1.Master seminal texts curated by an expert.
  2. 2.Pass rigorous knowledge exams and a live oral defense.
  3. 3.Celebrate earning your specialist microdegree.

No applications.
No prerequisites.
No bullsh*t.

In a world that moves fast, expertise is your most durable asset.

Launching the Design Program

Design is not about the tools of the day. Tools change. Judgment doesn’t. The designers who endure are the ones who know why, not just how. That’s why design is our first program. It’s the perfect discipline to build the mastery practices and processes we’ll eventually bring to every domain. The I.GURU Design Program offers a rigorous, accessible path to develop, demonstrate, and showcase specialized expertise in six key areas.

The program is led by the author of Universal Principles of Design, Dr. William Lidwell, Dean of Design. With over 200,000 learners across LinkedIn Learning and The Great Courses, and decades of practice as a designer, author, and educator, Will brings unmatched expertise to this program.

Early registration begins soon for September 2026. Limited seats available. Click below to get an email when registration opens.

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A New Kind of Credential for a New Kind of Expert

A Credential With Real Weight

Rigorous knowledge exams for every book and a comprehensive 1:1 oral examination. Specialist microdegrees convey focus, capacity to learn, perseverance, and depth of knowledge.

An Enduring Investment

Skills expire. Knowledge compounds. You will master the frameworks, mental models, and principles that stand the test of time in an era of accelerating change.

Complete Flexibility

No applications. No prerequisites. No attendance requirements. One year to master the material — on your schedule, in your way, at your pace.

A Career Pathway, Not a Certificate

Alumni in good standing are eligible to become qualified examiners — helping the next generation of I.GURU Specialists, and earning income while doing it.

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Expertise Solutions for Organizations

I.GURU partners with organizations to deliver solutions that develop and validate your team’s expertise. Existing Specialist Microdegrees can be deployed as sponsored individual credentials or as a private cohort program. Custom pathways can be developed based on your organization’s specific priorities and pain points. Reach out to our team to learn how I.GURU can build an expertise solution for your organization.

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