Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, is venturing into the world of online education with a new initiative set to launch under the BetterUp brand. This move comes as the Duke, who has previously been open about his struggles with academic achievement, aims to establish a digital university focused on life coaching and personal development.
BetterUp, a Silicon Valley-based mental health platform where Harry serves as Chief Impact Officer, is seeking to trademark "BetterUp University" to offer degrees in life coaching, professional development, and career coaching, according to recently filed patent applications.
Despite his non-traditional academic path-marked by modest A-level results and a decision to forego university in favor of military training at Sandhurst-Prince Harry is positioning himself as a key player in this new educational venture. The BetterUp University will provide online educational forums intended to support individuals seeking personal and professional growth through coaching.
The Duke's foray into education aligns with his role at BetterUp, where he has been instrumental in advocating for mental fitness and preventive care. Since his appointment as Chief Impact Officer in March 2021, Harry has been actively involved in promoting the platform's services, which include counseling packages and executive coaching. The decision to launch an online university appears to be a natural extension of BetterUp's offerings.
However, Harry's academic shortcomings have drawn some scrutiny. He left Eton College with a D in A-level Geography and a B in Art, choosing instead to enter the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. This background contrasts sharply with his current role in shaping an educational institution. Critics have pointed out that his personal academic record might seem incongruent with his new venture's mission to provide high-quality, accredited education.
Harry's commitment to the BetterUp platform has not been without controversy. He faced criticism for his absence from a free online livestream at a San Francisco summit earlier this year, opting instead to participate in a high-ticket event on stress management, where seats were priced at £1,200. This decision has sparked debate over his engagement with the platform's core audience and its accessibility.
The Duke has been candid about his own struggles with mental health, discussing his experiences of burnout and his ongoing therapy in his 2023 memoir, Spare. His public admissions have added a personal dimension to his role at BetterUp, where he has been a vocal advocate for mental health support. Despite his past academic difficulties, Harry's involvement in BetterUp reflects his broader commitment to improving mental wellness.
The establishment of BetterUp University aims to address a growing demand for flexible, online educational opportunities in the field of life coaching. The university will focus on providing certifications and degrees designed to equip individuals with skills for personal and professional advancement. The application to register the university's name highlights BetterUp's ambition to expand its influence in the educational sector.
