The Institute curriculum focuses on developing leaders in HIV prevention and includes sessions dedicated to exploring leadership and building skills for successful leaders. 

The curriculum is offered over a period of nine months and includes four weeks of on-site instruction provided approximately once a quarter. Instructional methods and techniques are modeled on adult learning theory and involve didactic presentations coupled with small group exercises, case studies, role-plays, and group facilitation exercises. Importantly, the four on-site weeks of instruction are supplemented by distance learning support via the Internet.

Additionally, between on-site sessions, participants must complete an Integrative Learning Experience (ILE) by applying what they learn during each on-site week in their own CBOs. The ILE builds after each week and by the end of their course of study each participant produces a strategic plan to address one business/operational priority and a plan to implement and evaluate an HIV prevention intervention. CBOs often use these plans to prepare grant proposals that enhance their future funding opportunities. In addition to the distance learning support provided, participants are assigned an advisor who serves as a mentor throughout the entire course of study.