​Frequently Asked Questions

The program is a 36-unit program that can be completed in two academic years (including a summer session that bridges the first and second academic year). Students who are looking to complete the program in two years take at least 6 units per semester, with optional courses during winter and summer terms.

Students can also elect to undertake their studies on a part-time basis, completing the degree in 2.5-3 years, depending on the pace they set for themselves.

Yes! The program is designed for working professionals, with the majority of courses offered in the evening while some courses require occasional weekends. 

Most of our classes take place from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. during weekday evenings. A small number are held earlier (5:30 p.m.) or on select weekend days. In addition, all students participate in an international experience of their choosing — either in San Diego or abroad — that is designed to expand their global perspective and to enhance their ability to understand and lead diverse organizations.

The tuition rate for the current and upcoming cohort is available on our Tuition and Financing page. You can also review scholarship opportunities.

We like to see letters from people who know you and with whom you have a professional relationship. Examples of appropriate recommenders are immediate supervisors, faculty, or academic advisers.

Letters from personal acquaintances/friends are not encouraged.

No, this program is offered on campus at USD only. While some courses offer an online component, there is no formal distance learning option available at this time.

Our students are a very diverse group. They reflect the racial, ethnic, and religious diversity of our region. Many are in their 20's to mid-30's, and have earned bachelor's degrees across a wide spectrum of fields ranging from business, psychology, education, and everything in between. 

No, we don’t, but 72% of our students report they have received a raise, new jobs, or promotions as a direct result of their participation in our program. 

Graduates of the M.A. in Leadership Studies go on to pursue growth and leadership in a wide variety of settings.

Here is a list of some of the job titles of our program’s alumni:

• Chapter Support Coordinator, National Society of Leadership and Success
• Quality Management Officer, Badir Program for Technology Incubators
• Executive Director, Nerium International
• Advocacy Director, American Lung Association of CA
• Community Partners Incubator Program, Interfaith Community Services
• Teacher, 7th Grade, Social Studies, Georgetown Middle High School
• Managing Partner of Development, North County Lifeline
• Lt. Col., United States Air Force
• Director of Development, Scripps Health Foundation
• Assistant Professor, Arizona State University
• Chief Business Officer, The School For Entrepreneurship & Technology
• Organization Development Consultant, Noblis
• Assistant Director, Hillel of San Diego
• Director, The Corley Foundation
• Founding Campus Director, Alliant International University at Sweetwater
• Education Research Consultant / Vice President, CMC Inc / Wayfind Education
• Executive Director, Bay Scholars
• Superintendent, Piner-Olivet Union School District
• Director, Human Resources, Great Call
• Client Services & Development Manager, Rokenbok Education
• CEO, Ronald McDonald House At Stanford
• Chief HR Consultant, Evans Consulting
• Trauma Prevention Coordinator, UC San Diego Medical Center
• Vice Principal, Point Loma High School
• Chief Development Officer, Center for Community Solutions
• President and Founder, Goates Consulting Group, Inc.