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Department of Leadership

The Department of Leadership at Austin Peay State University equips students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to lead effectively in any sector. Whether you're pursuing a career in the private sector, higher education, the military, government, or the non-profit world, our undergraduate and graduate programs are designed to support your professional growth and leadership development. Delivered 100% online, our flexible programs are ideal for working professionals and students balancing multiple responsibilities—empowering you to advance your career on your schedule.

Our Mission

The mission of the Department of Leadership is to offer online academic programs that address leadership-related theory, research, and practice grounded in the social and behavioral sciences, thereby helping students develop the leadership competencies needed to become formal or informal leaders and advance their careers in varied employment settings.


Degree Programs

The Department of Leadership offers a Bachelor of Science in Leadership Science and a Master of Science in Leadership degree with five graduate certificates. All course offerings are available online throughout the calendar year.

Graduate Degree

The Master of Science in Leadership (MSL) is an interdisciplinary graduate degree program in the social sciences. The 30-hour program is designed for students who wish to pursue graduate professional studies in an online learning environment. The MSL is a professionally-oriented program that responds to the dynamic needs of students working in or preparing for rapidly changing professional environments and expectations.

The MSL program offers three concentrations:

  • Strategic Leadership
  • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
  • Community Leadership

Each concentration provides specialized knowledge and skills to meet specific career goals.

Learn more about our Graduate Program

Graduate Certificates

  • Community and Organizational Leadership certificate
  • Grant Writing certificate
  • Conflict Resolution and Negotiation certificate
  • Leading Organizational Change certificate
  • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace certificate

Learn more about our Certificate Programs

Undergraduate Program

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with a major in Leadership Science is developed around a conceptual model of leader development grounded in the social and behavioral sciences. The program prepares students with essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes related to:

  • Organizational ethics
  • Cultural diversity
  • Organizational behavior
  • Strategic communications
  • Strategic planning

Students will learn to analyze research for insights on leader effectiveness while discovering their own leadership potential and areas for self-development. This comprehensive program provides a solid foundation for leadership roles across various sectors.

Learn more about our Undergraduate Program



What You'll Learn

Students will explore, research and reflect on leadership topics including:

 

Career Opportunities

Leadership Science graduates hold positions in a variety of fields including:

Our graduates are well prepared to pursue graduate school in leadership studies, higher education administration, communications and public administration.


Student Organizations

National Society for Leadership and Success

The National Society for Leadership and Success (NSLS) is a leadership honor society available to APSU students interested in developing their leadership skills. Students from all disciplines can participate, including both undergraduate and graduate students.

NSLS offers leadership training, development activities, and networking opportunities that complement academic studies in leadership. Participation can enhance your leadership abilities while building connections with like-minded peers.

Visit the National Society of Leadership and Success to learn more.


Ready to Lead the Way?



christopher burnett
Christopher Burnett, Graduate

My college years earning my Associate's and Bachelor’s degrees have helped me grow as a father, husband, soldier, and leader. I had a real fear of the unknown before submitting my application to APSU. Old fears of the unknown and potential failure crept into my mind. However, conquering fears have become the norm as my profession as a Soldier, and I am grateful for the encouragement of the professors at APSU. Austin Peay and its Leadership Department have helped me tremendously. Thank you, Leadership Department and APSU.