Foundational Courses
The study of leadership requires an understanding of 1) a basic body of knowledge in leadership studies, 2) competence in understanding qualitative and quantitative research for the purpose of informing evidence-based practice, and 3) an ability to function and lead in an environment that is diverse and inclusive. To this end, the following three required courses are intended to lay a consistent foundation for the program:
ML 505 – Foundations of Leadership
Learning Outcome: Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of multiple theories of leadership and their strengths and weaknesses in contexts.
ML 514 – Evaluating Empirical Research
Learning Outcome: Demonstrate skills in assessing the reliability, validity and value of qualitative and quantitative research.
ML 560 – Cultural Competence and Effective Leadership
Learning Outcome: Explain different approaches needed for inclusive leadership in diverse contexts.
Requisite Courses
Choose at least one course from each requisite category: Personal Growth and Interpersonal Dynamics and Organizational and Community Context.
Personal Growth and Interpersonal Dynamics
Courses in this arena focus on individuals’ self-knowledge and well developed interpersonal skills enable a person to successfully work with a wide range of individuals at varying levels of an organization.
Learning Outcomes: Articulate self-knowledge of leadership strengths and weaknesses. Demonstrate interpersonal skills in interactions with peers and instructors that reflect understanding of leader follower dynamics.
ML 520 – Self-Identity and Values: Keys to Authentic Leadership
ML 538 – Communication Skills for Leadership
ML 548 – Coaching and Consulting
ML 575 – Constructive Conflict Resolution
Or a department-approved substitute
Organizational and Community Context
Leadership involves an ability to understand the nature of, and respond effectively to, the context of organizations as well as the environment that surrounds them in order to operate effectively.
Learning Outcomes: Articulate the key factors of organizational and community contexts and their impact on leadership. Incorporate these contexts in their analysis and evaluation of leaders and leadership.
ML 512 – Leadership in the Community
ML 531 – Dynamics of Change
ML 535 – Organization Theory and Leadership
ML 536 – Facilitating Organizational Change
Or a department-approved substitute
Elective Courses
The leadership process involves well developed skills in communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking, as well as increasing students’ self-confidence and risk-taking. Based on their interests and background, students will choose 5 elective courses that focus on their own professional development.
Learning Outcomes: Course specific outcomes that link to MA in Leadership model should be on each syllabus.
ML 511 – Creativity and the Problem-Solving Process
ML 530 – Ethics in Communication
ML 545 – Decision Making and Leadership
ML 563 – Leadership in a Global Society
ML 565 – Women and Leadership
ML 574 – Strategic Leadership
ML 577 – Universal Responsibility and Leadership: A Central American Experience
ML 598 – Independent Study
ML 599 – Topics
Integrative Course
This seminar provides a culminating learning experience for participants in the program who have completed all other degree requirements. Students will deepen their understanding of the major leadership theories, advance their critical analysis skills, and synthesize their comprehension of the nature of leadership, how leadership is known, and how leadership manifests itself in practice.
ML 585 – Leadership Capstone: Integrating Theory and Practice
For a complete list of courses and descriptions, see the Course Description Search.
* Degree requirements are somewhat different for those who began the program prior to fall term 2019. Please contact the program director for information about previous requirements.
International Students – Federal regulations require students on an F-1 visa to maintain full-time status (6 credits each semester). No more than one class per semester can be taken online. You are required to remain in contact with your advisor to ensure your course plan is in compliance.
An example of a schedule that fulfills these requirements:
Year I | Year II |
Fall – ML 505 & elective
|
Fall – ML 599 & elective |
Spring – ML 560 & elective
|
Spring – ML 585 & elective |
Summer – ML 514 & elective
|
Summer – ML 512 |
*Year one could begin in Summer.