Master of Science in Leadership, Concentration in Community Leadership

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”  Margaret Mead

The Master of Science in Leadership, concentration in Community Leadership (MSCL) was designed for the education of leaders who are committed to improving - indeed transforming - the quality of life in the community. Healthy communities require a vibrant blend of an involved and informed citizenry and the ongoing development of a multitude of local resources. Community-driven leadership is the intangible asset that combines these and other ingredients in creative and effective ways - to design and enact a desirable, sustainable future.

The program emphasizes:

• Acknowledging our global interdependence
• Leading, motivating and empowering others
• Strengthening the overall societal impact of individuals and organizations
• Communicating effectively and persuasively
• Building consensus and a community of leaders
• Synthesizing individual and community needs
• Effective decision-making from visionary, ethical and analytical perspectives
• Leveraging the use of resources to further the mission and building the capacity of the organization
• Forming and maintaining unusually effective coalitions and partnerships at the local and regional levels
• Instilling excellence, not as an action, but as a habit
• Building upon individual and organizational strengths

Program Structure
This 36-credit master's degree is available entirely online and can be completed in two years.  The academic year is structured with three semesters per year: two 15-week terms in fall and spring and one 8-week term in summer.

Curriculum
The comprehensive 36-credit curriculum consists of twelve 3-credit hour courses, including 8 required courses and 4 electives.   Courses are taught by highly experienced community professionals, carefully selected for their experience and expertise in community leadership and mastery of pedagogy.

Become Part of a Learning Community
You will learn about organizational design and development; strengthening the overall societal impact of individuals and organizations; and creating powerful community change toward a sustainable future.  Current students include: nonprofit consultant, executive director, grants administrator, case manager, director of development, academic advisor, and alumni director.

At the completion of this degree, students will have enhanced their abilities to influence positive change in others, to collaborate creatively with diverse stakeholder groups, to inspire and lead volunteers, to serve the greater good of the various publics they serve, and to foster the growth and development of other leaders.

Request a graduate degree brochure

Brochure (pdf)