Skip to main content
Indiana University School of Medicine
Indiana University School of Medicine
Faculty Affairs and Professional Development

Physician Leadership in Business Acumen

The Physician Leadership in Business Acumen program targets physicians and scientists in clinically facing leadership positions. The program content is highly applied with cases drawn from IU School of Medicine’s enterprise environment. The program supports continued training for clinical leaders to be prepared for the evolving health care environment.

Application

The next PLBA session will be held in 2026. The application will be live in early 2026.

About the program

  • The PLBA program is offered every other year. The next session will begin in fall 2026.
  • The six-month program includes three, two-credit-hour courses with a cohort of 15 to 20 leaders.
  • The six credit hours earned in this certificate are transferable to the Kelley Physician MBA program within five years.
  • Once accepted into the program, participants must formally apply as non-degree-seeking students (small fee) through the IU Indianapolis Graduate Studies Office.
    • Most participants enrolling in the courses use the IU tuition benefit to pay for most of the program.
    • The associated fees (approximately $600) are the participant’s responsibility.
    • FAPD and the Kelley School of Business will assist with program administration (e.g., applying for tuition benefits, assistance with enrollment and tech support).
  • The courses will be taught in a hybrid format, combining face-to-face and online instruction.
    • Face-to-face instruction will consist of six full days (8 hours each), held one Friday monthly for six months.
      • Attendance at every in-residence session is mandatory
      • All classes are held in the Kelley Executive Education classrooms in Hine Hall.
    • Online asynchronous instruction will take place via Canvas between face-to-face instruction days. 
  • Courses will be graded satisfactory/unsatisfactory.
  • Participants should expect three to five hours of coursework during non-residency weeks.
  • CME is offered.

Criteria

Each participant must:

  • Have an MD or equivalent degree
  • Be a faculty member and hold a leadership role
  • Be eligible for the IU tuition benefit 

How to apply

If you are interested in the program, please submit your application (including a personal statement and CV) by July 1 of the year you wish to participate. PLBA is offered during even-numbered years (i.e., 2026, 2028, etc.).

The personal statement should be no longer than three pages (single-spaced and 12-point font). Address the following in your statement:

  • Briefly describe the range of responsibilities in your current position, including any formal leadership training, responsibilities for personnel and budget experience.
  • What is your personal philosophy or definition of leadership? How does it apply to your professional role?
  • What are your five-year career goals? Be as specific as possible. How will participating in the Physician Leadership in Business Acumen program help you achieve these goals?

If you have questions, email fapdd@iu.edu.