Coursework
Master of Arts in Leadership Studies
Department of Leadership Studies
Program of Study
Overview
The M.A. in Leadership Studies is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in a wide variety of organizational contexts. Students build skills in assessing organizational dynamics, creating systemic interventions, leading groups, consulting, strategic planning, and developing leadership in others. The program is highly customizable - half of the program consists of elective units, which students select in consultation with their advisor. Students may choose to focus on Organizational Leadership and Consulting, PK-12 School Leadership or an Individualized option which may include coursework from other graduate divisions (including counseling, education, peace studies, business and law).
Some students in this program plan to use the skills they build in this program in practice, through work in administration, consulting, education or business, and do not plan to pursue further study. Other students complete this program with the goal of applying to doctoral programs in leadership.
Learning Outcomes
Leadership and Development Theories
Master's candidates will articulate prominent leadership theories in Leadership Studies, analyze and critique these theories, and apply these theories in the course of addressing a variety of organizational issues and problems.
Critical Thinking and Analytical Approaches
Students will select relevant information, organize and evaluate the information, and apply the information to issues of leadership.
Organizational Systems and Group Dynamics
Students will demonstrate an understanding of key theories of organizational behavior and change, and to apply these theories in an organizational setting.
Cultural Competency Global Understanding
Students will critically examine culture other than their own, and apply the knowledge gained in their personal and professional lives.
Self-Awareness
Graduates will have an ability to reflect upon their own skills and limitations as leaders, evidenced by performance in working with groups.
International Experience
At SOLES, all masters and doctoral students participate in an international experience designed to support the growth of cultural competency. Our goal is to inform best practices in working with culturally diverse populations locally, nationally and globally.
For many students, this experience will include a one- to two-week, faculty-led course abroad. For students who prefer to stay in southern California, this experience may be fulfilled through research or coursework on international issues. Service trips and site visits across the border in Tijuana are offered regularly.
Courses with an international component include:
- Community Models of Leadership: From Noticing to Mindful Action in Sri Lanka (Summer 2012)
- International Education and School Change in Chile (Intersession 2013)
- Nonprofits and Civil Society in Guatemala (Intersession 2013)
- Exercising Leadership for the Common Good in South Africa (Summer 2013)
- Models of Participatory Leadership in Mondragon, Spain (Summer 2012, 2013)
Curriculum
Leadership Core Curriculum (12 units)
| Course Number | Course Title | Graduate Units |
|---|---|---|
| LEAD 550 | Leadership Theory and Practice | 3 |
| LEAD 551 | Human Relations for Leaders | 3 |
| LEAD 555 | Leadership & Ethics | 3 |
| LEAD 559 | Organizational Theory & Change | 3 |
Research Core (3 units)
| Course Number | Course Title | Graduate Units |
|---|---|---|
| LEAD 549 | Research Methodology | 3 |
Internship (3 units)
| Course Number | Course Title | Graduate Units |
|---|---|---|
| LEAD 598 | Leadership Internship | 3 |
Electives (18 units)
Students complete 18 units of electives. Electives are selected in consultation with the student's advisor and may be drawn from the School of Leadership and Education Sciences, the School of Peace Studies, the School of Business and the School of Law. Electives drawn from other programs may require instructor approval in order to enroll.
Examples of elective courses include, but are not limited to:
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will the program take me?
Full-time students complete their degree in 2 years. Part-time students complete their degree in 2.5-3 years.
How many units are included?
This program consists of 36 Graduate Units.
When are classes scheduled?
Each class typically meets once per week at 5:30 or 6:00 p.m. for 2 hours and 50 minutes. Summer and intersession classes typically hold more frequent class meetings. Students typically take 2-3 classes per semester as well as summer and intersession coursework.
Please note that electives taken in other departments may not follow this class schedule.
Can I work while completing this program?
Yes. Classes are scheduled in the evenings and occasionally on weekends. Many students work full-time or part-time while completing this program.
