The UGL leadership course – Understanding Group and Leader – is a renowned leadership training originally developed for the Swedish National Defense Academy. Since its inception in 1981, the UGL course has become one of Sweden’s most respected and widely attended leadership development programmes. Available in English through CoreCode in cooperation with Gällöfsta Perlan Ledarskap, Kungsängen, this course offers international professionals the opportunity to access the same high-level training long favoured by Swedish leaders.

Offered entirely in English, CoreCodes UGL course is ideal for organisations looking to invest in their international teams. Participants gain crucial insights into how leadership, group maturity, and interpersonal communication shape results and relationships. 

UGL in English – for leaders at all organisational levels

This five-day immersive course is designed for leaders, managers and professionals who want to strengthen their leadership capabilities by understanding both their personal leadership behaviours and how they influence group performance. Whether you are an experienced executive or a newly appointed team leader, UGL helps build essential awareness of how to lead more effectively based on the development stage of your group.
What sets the UGL leadership course apart is its experiential format. You won’t just learn theory – you’ll live it. Through practical exercises, feedback sessions, and ongoing reflection, you will observe and influence how your group evolves over the course of the training. This hands-on approach creates powerful insight into your own leadership tendencies and how they impact collaboration and performance.

Scientifically grounded leadership development based on IMGD

At the heart of the UGL course is the IMGD model developed by Dr Susan A. Wheelan, built on more than three decades of research into group development. This model provides a clear framework for identifying a group’s stage of maturity and understanding how leadership must shift in response to group needs. This is not a one-size-fits-all model, it is a dynamic, responsive approach to leadership that reflects real organisational challenges.
Participants will learn and apply principles of effective communication, conflict resolution, and situational leadership. A core focus is placed on giving and receiving feedback constructively, which is a vital component in any successful team environment. The course also explores methods for assessing group maturity and adapting strategies accordingly.

Structure of the UGL course 

Group size: 8-12 participants. Led by two certified facilitators trained by The Swedish National Defense University. The programme takes place over five intensive days, from Monday morning to Friday afternoon, with evening sessions to deepen learning. Full attendance is required, ensuring a cohesive group experience and maximising the depth of development.