Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Leadership

Bachelors

Hours: 120 On-Campus Online

About

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Leadership at Fort Hays State University empowers students to transition their previous experiences into a meaningful leadership degree. Designed specifically for individuals with nontraditional educational paths or transfer credits, this program builds on prior learning and life experiences. The program is structured around core leadership studies courses and additional elective coursework, culminating in a well-rounded foundation in applied leadership principles.

Why pursue a BAS in Applied Leadership at Fort Hays State University?

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Leadership at Fort Hays State University is a unique program that emphasizes flexibility and practical relevance. Unlike traditional bachelor's degrees, this program builds upon prior learning. It recognizes many nontraditional experiences, from military training to professional work experience.

At Fort Hays State University, students gain more than just theoretical knowledge; they develop critical leadership skills applicable in diverse professional settings, from business and community services to the nonprofit sector. The program's online format allows students nationwide to benefit from Fort Hays State University’s expertise in leadership education without disrupting their current jobs or family lives.

Who is this program for?

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Leadership is ideal for individuals seeking a flexible path to leadership that recognizes and builds upon their previous experiences. It is an excellent foundation for those aiming to step into leadership roles or advance within their current organizations:

Professionals aspiring to management roles
Military personnel looking to earn academic credit for service
Individuals with significant work experience seeking formal leadership credentials
Nontraditional students with prior college credits
Community leaders and volunteer coordinators

Learning Outcomes

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Leadership program at Fort Hays State University equips students with a strong foundation in leadership, emphasizing both personal growth and professional application. Students should develop skills essential for modern leaders, including emotional intelligence, cross-cultural competence, and the ability to drive organizational change.

Knowledge Transfer

Students develop the ability to reflect on their past experiences and integrate those insights into leadership roles. That outcome emphasizes adaptability and encourages graduates to apply their learning to navigate complex situations in diverse professional contexts.

Emotional Intelligence

Graduates learn to be self-aware, manage their emotions constructively, and empathize with others. That skill is crucial for building positive team relationships, handling conflicts diplomatically, and creating an inclusive environment where everyone's contributions have value.

Cross-Cultural Competence

The program fosters an appreciation for cultural diversity, preparing students to engage effectively with individuals from various backgrounds. Graduates learn to navigate interdependent relationships and respect cultural differences, an essential skill in today's globalized and multicultural workplaces.

Persistence and Vision

Students gain the ability to set clear goals, develop strategic plans, and maintain resilience despite setbacks. This learning outcome empowers graduates to lead purposefully, establish long-term visions, and drive initiatives that contribute to organizational growth and improvement.

Real-World Applications

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Leadership prepares students to navigate complex organizational challenges, making them valuable assets in various professional roles. Key topics like emotional intelligence, decision-making, and critical thinking equip graduates to manage interpersonal dynamics, resolve conflicts, and guide projects from inception to completion.

In addition to foundational coursework, the BAS in Applied Leadership program includes a capstone project and fieldwork that enable students to apply their learning in practical settings. These experiences allow students to bridge theory with action, gaining hands-on experience that reflects real-world situations.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Leadership integrates modern leadership theories and emerging trends, ensuring students remain at the forefront of leadership practices.

Focusing on cross-cultural competence and empathy, the BAS in Applied Leadership program also trains students to thrive in increasingly diverse and globalized organizations. The curriculum encourages understanding of varied cultural perspectives. It emphasizes the development of interpersonal skills needed to work with diverse teams.

Hands-on Activities

Hands-on learning is central to the Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Leadership, providing students with opportunities to gain practical study experience. Courses like LDRS 310 Fieldwork in Leadership allow students to take on real-world projects, collaborate with organizations, or lead initiatives in their communities.

The program also offers credit for relevant prior experiences, such as military leadership training, which can be applied to course requirements. Additionally, the capstone project in LDRS 493 serves as a culminating experience where students synthesize their learning, allowing them to demonstrate their leadership abilities comprehensively.

What You’ll Learn:

Fundamentals of leadership and human behavior
Applied project management skills
Effective communication and empathy
Decision-making in complex situations
Principles of organizational performance

How You’ll Learn:

Interactive online modules
Real-world leadership case studies
Credit for military and prior leadership experience
Engaging in fieldwork and capstone projects
Access to faculty experts in leadership studies

Courses

The core curriculum of the Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Leadership includes comprehensive leadership and organizational behavior courses. Critical courses like Introduction to Leadership Concepts and Introduction to Leadership Behavior provide foundational knowledge, covering critical thinking, human behavior, and communication. Students complete 30 hours of coursework in leadership, including electives that allow them to focus on specific interests within leadership.

LDRS 300: Intro to Leadership Concepts

This course will actively engage students in the acquisition of information about historical and contemporary theories, concepts, and issues associated with leadership. Students will be exposed to the nature of leadership through presentation of objective material, through group activities, and through laboratory exercises.

LDRS 200: Discovering Leadership

Effective leadership is important to everyone throughout society and is much more situational and complex than a “position”. Discovering Leadership is an introductory course for all students seeking to broaden their understanding of the leadership process in modern organizations and communities, even for those who may not seek or desire formal leadership positions. Students will explore the multidisciplinary nature of leadership as firmly rooted in social science. They will develop leadership dispositions- the mental habits one uses to see, think about and respond to the world - at the individual, team, and organizational level by using design principles to create a “leadership future”, and will explore leadership practices, perspectives and research across cultures in order to understand leadership at a societal level.

LDRS 310: Field Work in Leadership Studies

This interdisciplinary course is designed to provide the student with an awareness and understanding of current issues relating to the nature and tasks of collaborative leadership behavior. The student is asked to identify an issue or problem and practice leadership by developing and implementing a community project.

Discover the full BAS in Applied Leadership course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Leadership from Fort Hays State University opens doors to numerous career opportunities across various fields. Graduates have a versatile skill set that includes leadership, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence, making them well-prepared for positions in management, social services, and beyond.

Leadership Roles

Graduates who enter leadership roles oversee teams, develop project strategies, and efficiently meet organizational objectives. Equipped with skills in decision-making, organizational behavior, and interpersonal communication, they can foster collaborative team environments and improve workplace productivity.

Community Service Coordinator

As community service coordinators, graduates can lead programs that address local needs, such as youth outreach, public health initiatives, or volunteer mobilization. With solid empathy and cultural competence, graduates can engage diverse community members, advocate for resources, and create positive community impacts.

Organizational Development Specialist

In this role, organizational development specialist use their knowledge of organizational behavior and performance improvement to enhance workplace culture and effectiveness. Graduates analyze existing processes, recommend changes to optimize productivity, and lead training sessions that foster employee engagement and development.

Human Resource Specialist

Human resource specialists handle organizational recruitment, employee relations, and performance management. Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Leadership graduates bring valuable communication, empathy, and decision-making skills to HR roles, where they support individual employees and organizational needs.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,961.90* (on-campus) or $3,859.95* (online)* per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($197.46/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (257.33/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

Apply

Related Programs

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Leadership is part of Fort Hays State University’s commitment to fostering influential leaders across various fields. Students interested in broadening their expertise or adding to their leadership skills may also consider the related programs that Fort Hays State University offers:

FAQ

What is the quickest way to complete my BAS in Applied Leadership degree?

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Leadership allows credit for prior learning, including military experience, and accepts many transfer credits, accelerating the path to degree completion.

How does the BAS in Applied Leadership accommodate military experience?

The program recognizes military training and experience. This experience can count for over half of the program.

Is the Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Leadership program available online?

Yes, the Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Leadership program is offered online and in-person, allowing students to study from anywhere.

What career opportunities are available after graduation?

Graduates can pursue roles in management, community service, social services, and more, with the foundational skills to excel in leadership positions across various sectors.

Can I earn a Certificate in Leadership Studies as part of this program?

Students can obtain a Certificate in Leadership Studies, or an AAS in Technology and Leadership (Leadership Studies), which both complement the BAS degree and enhances career prospects.

Information about the School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology

FHSU’s School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology brings together a diverse range of programs dedicated to preparing students for impactful careers in law enforcement, leadership, and social sciences. Our integrated approach allows students to develop critical skills across these disciplines, fostering an environment where future leaders and professionals are equipped to address complex societal challenges. The Criminal Justice programs offer flexible online and on-campus options, focusing on law enforcement, corrections, and legal systems with a strong emphasis on leadership and integrity. The Leadership programs develop essential organizational skills through interactive coursework and internships, supported by the Leadership Studies Association and VALUE program. Sociology programs delve into social life, behavior, and community issues, emphasizing research and critical thinking. Together, these programs foster cross-disciplinary learning, empowering students to lead and innovate within their communities and beyond.

Together, these programs create a robust educational experience that encourages cross-disciplinary learning and collaboration. Students are empowered to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the broader society. Whether you are passionate about justice, leadership, or sociology, FHSU’s School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology provides the knowledge and skills necessary to make a lasting impact.

Student Organizations

Additional Information

Criminal Justice Centers

National De-escalation Training Center:

Fort Hays State University’s Criminal Justice Program and University Police joined the National De-escalation Training Center (NDTC) in August 2020 as Region 2 Central Region Training Center. As a regional center, FHSU facilitates the only Level 3 de-escalation training available in the United States.

Level 1 training includes traditional techniques of procedural justice.
Level 2 provides basic crisis intervention.
Level 3 augments traditional de-escalation and crisis intervention with rapid personality identification.

The NDTC De-escalation: Principles & Practice course is evidence-based and has increased officer confidence in utilizing de-escalation skills in working with the public.

FHSU facilitates NDTC’s three training modalities, including an 8-hour online training, two-day face-to-face training, and a 40-hour train-the-trainer program. Due to FHSU’s $2.75 million federal grant funding, the face-to-face trainings can be provided at no cost to agencies. Scholarships may be available for agencies to train officers in the online course.

NDTC training is approved by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community-Oriented Policing Services (COPS) and certified by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST).

Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence:

The Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence is a regional hub of collaborative research and service, housed in the Criminal Justice Programs at Fort Hays State University. The Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence aims to reduce the constraints facing survivors, to promote the freedom of economic independence, and to empower survivors to seize opportunity freely. The center commits to providing sustainable support and improvement to help survivors break the cycle of violence and transform themselves from victims/survivors to social entrepreneurs. The Center facilitates cross-disciplinary research focusing on the causes and control of gender-based violence in rural areas. It leads and facilitates collaborative networks for researchers to apply evidence-based approaches and to investigate best practices addressing gender-based violence in rural communities. The Center establishes and develops academic-community collaborations through service-learning, research, assessment, and educational opportunities and policy recommendations that enhance the well-being of rural communities.

VALUE Program:

The Voss Advanced Leadership Undergraduate Experience (VALUE) is designed to develop the most promising undergraduates into powerful agents of change. This year-long program offers curricular and co-curricular experiences with three tracks: corporate leadership, civic/non-profit leadership, and scholarship/leadership research.

CNN Heroes Advisory Board:

The Sociology Programs emphasize real-world impact through training in projects designed to help those in need. A notable project involves collaboration with CNN Heroes, individuals recognized for their exceptional work in nonprofit organizations. The CNN Heroes Advisory Board, composed of these national heroes, provides insights and advice to students based on their successful experiences in the nonprofit sector.

Applied Leadership

Bachelors

On-Campus
Online

Request Information

Are you a current student at FHSU?*

First Name*

Last Name*

Email*

Phone number

I would like more information about