Who should join CDO School?
The CDO School is best for those who are mid-career and beyond. Our courses aren’t tailored for Junior or early career professionals.
Typically, our students are responsible for all aspects inside a design team, and have levels such as:
- Seniors, Leads, and Principals
- Managers
- Directors
- Executives
How much does CDO School cost?
Individual memberships cost as little as $499 USD per year. Included are on-demand access to our courses, member events, resource library, and the membership community. If you’re interested in Teams pricing, contact us here.
What do I get with my membership?
CDO School Basic membership includes:
- Access to all courses ($2400 value)
- Access to all workshops ($297 value)
- Access to past event recordings
- 130-page CDO School Workbook
- 150+ Tools & Templates
- 30+ Actionable Plays
- Members-only community forum
- Weekly Monday Campfire Calls with Ryan
- Expert and member-led events
- 10% Discount on Live Courses & Workshops
CDO School Pro membership gives you:
- Everything in Basic
- 20% Discount on Live Courses & Workshops
- Quarterly, 60-minute 1:1 coaching calls with Ryan Rumsey ($1200 value)
Can I join live cohorts with my membership?
Our live learning cohorts are sold separately from our membership plans. When you join a live cohort, a 1-year subscription to our Pro plan is included.
Are there requirements to attend CDO School?
All members must adhere to our Code of Conduct throughout the program and beyond. The code of conduct applies to all courses, digital channels, calls, and any in-person interactions. Full stop.
Many of the concepts referenced in one course are applicable to another. While individual courses can be completed on their own, members who complete multiple courses will see the larger benefit on how different approaches connect together.
How does CDO School compare to traditional MBA or Design Education programs?
At The CDO School, you’ll learn how to think like an executive and apply rigor and relevance for your hardest decisions – without losing your design soul.
- Our methodology sets us apart. Rather than focusing on theories, we immerse you in real-life situations so you can practice the skills required to start, build, and scale a successful design organization.
- We work to address the vast range of organizational challenges and opportunities design leaders face.
- Our faculty comprises experienced design executives who provide real-life insight while leading with purpose.
- Our courses deliver more value in less time and at a fraction of the cost of a traditional leadership program or workshop.
Is CDO School accredited?
No. To innovate freely and reimagine the design executive role, we need to reimagine executive education free from outdated constraints.
Will I get certificates when I complete a course?
Upon completion, you can request a certificate from the CDO School team.
How do I contact someone at CDO School?
Send me an email at ryan@thecdo.school
Do you offer any refunds?
Yes. You can receive a full refund within 14 days after purchase upon request. See our full course agreement terms here.
Does CDO School recommend other courses?
Every chance to learn is a good one. We highly recommend the following:
- Want to completely rethink what it means to be Human-Centered, place more accountability behind Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, or recover from workplace trauma? Check out HmntyCntrd.
- Want to move away from self-doubt and imposter syndrome? Check out the The Courageous Leadership Program by Sara Wachter-Boettcher. It’s a group coaching program to know better who you are and find your voice.