The MA in Leadership Studies offers graduate students and working professionals an engaging curriculum centered on enhancing their understanding of leadership within the communities, organizations, and systems that they belong to.

The focus of the MA in Leadership Studies is to build foundational knowledge of the history, theory, and practice of leadership with an emphasis on ethical decision making and understanding of the dynamics of power in doing the work of leadership as well as to apply this knowledge to real world contexts (e.g., workplace conflict, community nonprofit agencies, civic and public contributions).

In addition to introducing graduate students and working professionals to the culture of graduate education, the academic objectives for the program include learning and fostering:

1. Frameworks and techniques to better understand and navigate leadership situations, challenges, and opportunities within professional and community environments
2. Strategies to respond efficiently and effectively to the demands of a changing social, cultural, and political landscape while doing the work of leadership
3. Resources necessary to supplement their degrees and professional positions with a stronger understanding in and historical background of best practices for the ways that leadership is relevant to solving critical problems

Admission to Graduate Studies

Admission Requirements

• All applicants must meet the requirements outlined in the Admission to Graduate Study policy. 

• Bachelor’s degree: A copy of official transcripts showing proof of a bachelor's degree (and any post-bachelor’s coursework or degrees) from a regionally accredited institution, or a foreign university with equivalent bachelor's degree requirements is required.  

• English proficiency: Proof of English proficiency for non-native or non-native-like English speakers is required. There are two bands of English proficiency, including Admission and Full proficiency. For applicants to online programs, Full proficiency is required. 

Application Deadlines

The MA program in Leadership Studies accepts applications for the fall, spring, and summer terms. Applications and all required supplemental materials must be submitted by the deadlines listed on the program’s website to be considered for admission.

Application Materials

Applicants should upload the supporting application documents listed below to the online application.

• Copy of official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
• Statement of purpose (no longer than two pages, single spaced)
• Research-based writing sample (at least five pages, double spaced)
• Three letters of recommendation

Contact

Visit the ILS website for more information about the program and admissions requirements.

At the completion of this program, students will be able to: 

• produce effective written communication for and with diverse audiences across varied contexts.
• engage in effective oral communication with diverse audiences across varied contexts.
• integrate principles of ethical decision-making into leadership decisions.
• integrate principles of critical reflection into leadership decision-making.
• develop an understanding of the historical background and core domains relevant to social diversity and equity in the United States.
• develop and apply knowledge and approaches (e.g. skills, competencies, strategies, styles, etc.) to respond efficiently and effectively to the demands of a changing social, cultural, and political landscape while doing the work of leadership.