Our Mission
The Department of Leadership empowers students to become effective leaders by offering innovative online undergraduate and graduate programs grounded in the social and behavioral sciences. Through the integration of leadership theory, research, and practice, we cultivate the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary for students to thrive as formal and informal leaders, drive positive change, and advance their careers across professional settings.
Austin Peay State University's Department of Leadership has received three prestigious national awards at the Association of Leadership Educators conference.
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.
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
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.
What You'll Learn
Students will explore, research and reflect on leadership topics including:
- Foundations of leadership
- Team building and collaboration
- Diversity and inclusivity
- Professional ethics
- Strategic communication
- Organizational innovation
Career Opportunities
Leadership Science graduates hold positions in a variety of fields including:
- Human Resource Management
- Higher Education
- Financial Services
- U.S. Military
- Government Agencies
- Non-Profit Organizations
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.
