Leadership Studies Program

Certificate in Leadership Foundations

The Certificate in Leadership Foundations is an interdisciplinary program that educates students about and for leadership in a democratic society. This certificate provides an overview of diverse leadership theories, concepts, and issues, and assessment of one's leadership styles and abilities.  It is open to any student; prior experience in leadership activities is not required. A minor in leadership studies is also available which requires a leadership internship.

Prerequisite for admission: 2.50 GPA or permission of Director. Students must have an overall GPA in the core courses of 2.50, with no lower than a C in any one course.

Required courses totaling 13 hours:

Leadership core courses:  680:010; 680:110; 680:188  =  7 hours

Electives  =  6 hours  (Choose 2 courses from the list approved for the Leadership Studies minor.)

Brief descriptions of Leadership Studies core courses:

680:010  Leadership: Skills and Styles -- 3 hrs.
Basic principles and skills of personal leadership; focus on clarifying values, motivating individuals, organizing groups. Practical applications and use of case studies.

680:110(g)  Leadership: Concepts and Practice -- 3 hrs.
Analysis of relationship between leadership theory and practice; focus on development of critical and evaluative skills. Historical and contemporary perspectives on leaders and issues. Prerequisites:  680:010; junior standing.

680:188  Seminar on Leadership Development: The Future -- 1 (or 2) hr.
Synthesis of theory and practice of leadership; examination of case studies and research on
leadership issues and ethics; preparation of career plans that include service component.
Prerequisites:  680:010; 680:110; junior standing or consent of instructor.