PATHWAYS

Pathways is NAGGL’s new role-based education framework built specifically for SBA 7(a) professionals. Whether you’re just getting started or leading a lending department, Pathways gives you a clear roadmap to build your skills, grow your confidence, and take the next step in your career.

Explore the Tracks

Mastery Tracks provide a full-spectrum understanding of the 7(a) lending process, while Specialty Tracks offer focused expertise in specific areas.
Specialty Tracks – NAGGL EDU

Member Orientation

This course provides a comprehensive overview of the benefits of your NAGGL membership. Whether you joined NAGGL for advocacy, education, or to make connections, we’re here to help you get the most out of your membership. Our on-demand, web-based member orientation gives you and your team a comprehensive overview of the top benefits available to you. 

NAGGL Members Get Complimentary Access to this Course

Purchase

Cornerstones: Intro to SBA, 7(a) and NAGGL

The Cornerstones course is an introductory program designed to welcome new members to the association while providing a foundational understanding of general lending principles, the role of the SBA, and NAGGL’s contributions to the industry. Ideal for those new to the lending sector, this course covers key lending terms, the distinctions between conventional and government guaranteed lending, and the SBA loan process. 

NAGGL Members Get Complimentary Access to this Course

Purchase

Foundations of SBA 7(a) Lending

This course introduces the SBA 7(a) Loan Program, covering its core requirements and lender responsibilities for origination, underwriting, closing, servicing, and liquidation. Designed for new and current SBA lenders, this high-level overview provides a solid foundation in the workflow of a 7(a) loan from eligibility to liquidation.

Sustaining and Lender+ Members Get Complimentary Access to this Course

Purchase

Level 1 Mastery

For individuals new to SBA 7(a) lending, building familiarity with key terms, processes, and program structure.

  • Understand the basic requirements for originating and servicing 7(a) loans

  • Build foundational knowledge of SBA processes, forms, and program structure

 Prerequisite: No prerequisites required; however, completion of Cornerstones and Foundations Course is highly recommended. 

Level 2 Mastery (Coming Soon)

For those with working knowledge of 7(a) lending, ready to explore more complex scenarios and case studies.

  • Analyze and resolve challenging lending situations using real-world examples

  • Strengthen practical application of SBA policy across the loan lifecycle

 Prerequisite: Completion of Applicable Level 1 Courses

Level 3 Mastery (Coming Soon)

For seasoned professionals managing strategic aspects of 7(a) lending, with an emphasis on high-complexity cases and decision-making.

  • Navigate very complex scenarios in origination, servicing, and liquidation

  • Apply strategic thinking to lending decisions and organizational processes

Prerequisite: Completion of Applicable Level 2 Courses

Level 4 Mastery (Coming Soon)

For expert-level practitioners offering deep technical insight and leading policy interpretation within the 7(a) community.

  • Engage in advanced policy discussions and interpret guidance at an expert level

  • Serve as a technical resource within your institution or the industry

Prerequisite: Completion of Applicable Level 3 Courses

Origination Specialist (Coming Soon)

Focuses on the early stages of the SBA 7(a) loan lifecycle, from borrower engagement to packaging and eligibility.

  • Understand borrower eligibility, loan structure, and program requirements

  • Build expertise in packaging compliant loan applications

  • Apply SBA origination policies to both standard and complex loan scenarios

  • Develop strategic approaches to screening and structuring loans

Underwriting Specialist (Coming Soon)

Covers financial analysis, credit risk assessment, and prudent decision-making based on SBA guidelines.

  • Analyze financial statements and assess repayment ability

  • Evaluate credit risk using SBA eligibility and underwriting standards

  • Navigate complex underwriting scenarios and layered risk profiles

  • Make strategic credit decisions aligned with SBA policy and prudent lending practices

Closing Specialist (Coming Soon)

Emphasizes documentation, compliance, and loan authorization processes to ensure a smooth and SBA-compliant closing.

  • Understand required documentation and SBA closing conditions

  • Ensure closing accuracy, completeness, and compliance with authorization

  • Resolve documentation challenges in complex closing scenarios

  • Apply strategic thinking to protect the guaranty and manage risk

Liquidation Specialist

Covers loan recovery strategies, guaranty purchase packages, litigation, and SBA reporting during the liquidation phase.

  • Understand the liquidation process and required SBA steps

  • Prepare complete and compliant Guaranty Purchase and Wrap-up Packages

  • Handle complex liquidation actions including litigation, CPCs, and OICs

  • Lead decision-making and policy interpretation in challenging liquidation cases

Servicing Specialist (Coming Soon)

Focuses on post-closing loan management, including monitoring, modifications, deferments, and ongoing borrower communication.

  • Understand routine and non-routine servicing actions

  • Apply SBA policy to real-world servicing requests and borrower needs

  • Manage high-risk servicing cases and identify early warning signs

  • Develop servicing strategies to mitigate risk and ensure program compliance

More about Pathways

When will more tracks be available?

Tracks will begin rolling out throughout 2026, with full implementation planned for 2027. Stay tuned for announcements as new tracks and courses are released.

Will courses in Pathways replace the Diploma Program?

The Legacy Diploma Program sunset at the end of 2025. All earned credits will carry over into Pathways starting in 2026. 

How do I know which track is right for me?

Tracks are based on job function and level of experience. Use the track descriptions and level guidance to find the best fit, or reach out to NAGGL’s education team for personalized support.

Can I take courses outside my current role or level?

Yes! Pathways is designed to be flexible. While each track aligns with specific roles and levels, you’re welcome to take any course that fits your goals or interests. Some advanced courses may have prerequisites to ensure you’re set up for success, but otherwise, you can chart your own learning journey across tracks and levels.

Will I earn a certificate or badge?

Yes. Many courses offer certificates of completion that can be shared with your employer or added to your professional record. Digital badges that can be shared publicly are earned when you complete a full track.

Take our quick quiz to find your ideal starting point in NAGGL’s Education Pathways

Take the Quiz