Minor in Leadership Studies

Hours: 21 On-Campus Online

About

Fort Hays State University's Minor in Leadership Studies program provides a comprehensive curriculum to develop practical leadership skills. The interdisciplinary approach prepares students to navigate the dynamics of group and organizational leadership. With a focus on leadership development and ethical practices, students will be ready to contribute positively to communities and organizations.

The program combines theoretical knowledge with experiential learning to provide a solid foundation in leadership education. Coursework encompasses essential topics like communication, leadership principles, and collaborative skills for leading teams toward common goals.

Why pursue a Minor in Leadership Studies at Fort Hays State University?

Fort Hays State University's Minor in Leadership Studies stands out due to its interdisciplinary approach, blending theory with practical applications. Unlike other programs, it emphasizes ethical leadership practices and community engagement, preparing students to make meaningful contributions.

Additionally, the faculty members are experienced professionals dedicated to nurturing students' growth through innovative teaching methods. Students will also have opportunities to participate in experiential learning activities like service projects and leadership initiatives.

Who is this program for?

The Minor in Leadership Studies is designed to cater to students from various disciplines interested in enhancing their leadership skills and applying them to diverse career paths. This program is ideal for individuals who aspire to become influential leaders in their respective fields, contribute positively to their communities, and complement their primary field of study with leadership expertise.

The Minor in Leadership Studies is for those who:

Seek to enhance leadership skills for diverse career paths
Want to contribute positively to their communities
Aspire to work in interdisciplinary teams toward common goals
Desire to build strong communication and ethical leadership skills
Aim to complement their primary field of study with leadership expertise<

Learning Outcomes

The Minor in Leadership Studies program is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of leadership principles and practices. By combining theory and practical applications, the program aims to develop well-rounded leaders capable of making meaningful contributions to their communities and organizations. Upon completing the program, students will be able to demonstrate proficiency in various aspects of leadership through the following learning outcomes:

Understand Leadership Principles

Grasp fundamental concepts and theories of effective leadership. Students will explore various leadership styles, models, and approaches while gaining insight into ethical decision-making and strategic thinking. They will learn to apply these principles to real-world scenarios, adapting their leadership style to diverse organizational contexts.

Develop Communication Skills

Enhancing interpersonal communication skills is vital for team management. The program emphasizes active listening, conflict resolution, and persuasive communication, enabling students to convey their ideas and foster positive team relationships effectively. Mastering these skills will prepare students to lead collaborative efforts and drive organizational success.

Apply Ethical Practices

Demonstrate ethical leadership in various organizational settings. Students will learn to identify and navigate ethical dilemmas, develop moral reasoning skills, and create an inclusive work environment. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of integrity, accountability, and social responsibility in leadership roles.

Collaborate Effectively

Work efficiently in diverse teams to achieve common goals. The program focuses on group dynamics, problem-solving, and project management skills, allowing students to lead interdisciplinary teams effectively. Through practical exercises and group projects, students will refine their ability to motivate team members, resolve conflicts, and drive collective performance.

Real-World Applications

The Minor in Leadership Studies prepares students for real-world challenges by offering courses in communication, problem-solving, and group dynamics. Students will gain practical experience through hands-on projects and community leadership initiatives.

Moreover, they will engage in collaborative learning activities that foster teamwork and leadership skills. The interdisciplinary curriculum ensures that graduates can lead effectively in diverse professional environments.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Fort Hays State University’s Minor in Leadership Studies curriculum integrates the latest advancements in leadership research and practices. Students learn about emerging trends in ethical leadership, community development, and global leadership challenges.

Cutting-edge courses include digital and adaptive leadership strategies, ensuring students can tackle 21st-century leadership challenges. The program's commitment to interdisciplinary education allows students to explore leadership through various lenses.

Hands-on Activities

Students in the Minor in Leadership Studies program engage in hands-on projects like community service initiatives and leadership development workshops. These activities offer practical experiences that translate theory into real-world skills.

The program also encourages students to participate in collaborative group projects, enabling them to refine their problem-solving and team leadership abilities. Workshops and case studies ensure students can apply leadership principles in diverse scenarios.

What You’ll Learn:

Gain effective communication skills
Develop ethical leadership practices
Explore interdisciplinary leadership education
Apply leadership principles in real-world scenarios
Collaborate towards achieving common goals

How You’ll Learn:

Interdisciplinary courses combining theory and practice
Practical projects in leadership studies
Opportunities for leadership development in communities
Engagement with expert faculty in the field
Real-world case studies to enhance understanding

Courses

The Minor in Leadership Studies program requires students to complete 21 credit hours, which includes a blend of core and elective courses. The core curriculum provides a foundational understanding of leadership concepts and behaviors. Critical courses like Introduction to Leadership Concepts and Introduction to Leadership Behavior offer theoretical frameworks and practical insights into effective leadership. Field Work in Leadership Studies also provides hands-on experience in applying leadership principles to real-world challenges. At the same time, Global Leadership explores leadership from an international perspective, preparing students for the globalized workforce.

As you progress beyond the core courses, you have the freedom to customize your learning experience through a selection of electives. These courses, such as Advanced Leadership Behaviors, which delves deeper into leadership practices, and Global Challenges, which helps you understand leadership in addressing global issues, allow you to tailor your studies to your specific interests and career goals. For those interested in management, Management Principles offers essential skills in managing teams and organizations. Together, these courses ensure that you graduate with a well-rounded skill set applicable to various leadership roles in your future careers.

LDRS 300: Introduction 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 302: Introduction to Leadership Behavior

An interdisciplinary course designed to introduce the student to the tasks, strategies, and skills of effective leadership. Course activities will move the student from theory to the practical processes of leadership. Basic concepts essential to personal skills development and organizational leadership behavior are included.

LDRS 310: Fieldwork 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 Minor in Leadership Studies course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

The Minor in Leadership Studies is intended to complement a student’s primary field of study rather than act as an independent program. Career prospects for students will primarily be influenced by their major; however, the additional leadership expertise can enhance their attractiveness to employers and broaden job opportunities.

Nonprofit Manager

As a nonprofit manager, you will oversee nonprofit organizations' strategic planning, program development, and management. You will work closely with community stakeholders to identify social issues, develop impactful programs, and lead initiatives to address those concerns. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills are crucial in ensuring the success of programs and achieving the organization's mission.

Community Organizer

Community organizers lead grassroots initiatives to drive social change and advocate for policy reforms. They engage with community members, build relationships, and mobilize individuals to participate in collective action. Effective communication, strategic thinking, and negotiation skills are essential for advocating policy changes that align with the community's needs and values.

Project Coordinator

Project coordinators are responsible for planning and managing projects within organizations. They ensure that teams work cohesively to meet goals and deadlines. This role requires excellent leadership skills to motivate and guide team members, problem-solving abilities to address challenges, and strong organizational skills to manage resources efficiently and deliver projects on time.

HR Specialist

An HR specialist focuses on talent management and organizational development. They help companies build effective teams by recruiting, training, and retaining employees. Leadership skills are vital in improving employee engagement and fostering a positive work environment. HR specialists also contribute to organizational growth by developing and implementing policies that align with the company's strategic goals.

Marketing Manager

Marketing managers use their leadership skills to strategize and implement marketing campaigns that align with organizational goals. They lead teams responsible for creating, managing, and analyzing marketing initiatives, ensuring campaigns effectively reach target audiences. Creativity, strategic thinking, and communication skills are essential in this role, enabling marketing managers to build brand awareness and drive business growth.

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.

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Related Programs

Students in the Minor in Leadership Studies at Fort Hays State University may also find these related programs appealing. They offer complementary skills and knowledge to support diverse career goals and provide additional opprounties to delve deeper into leadership concepts, organizational management, and public service.

FAQ

What are the benefits of pursuing a Minor in Leadership Studies?

Pursuing a Minor in Leadership Studies allows students to develop essential leadership skills to complement any major. They will also learn ethical practices applicable to diverse professional settings and gain practical experience through community projects and initiatives.

How can I declare a Minor in Leadership Studies?

To declare a Minor in Leadership Studies, you must be an undergraduate student at FHSU and complete the Declaration Form through the Department of Leadership Studies.

What courses are available for a Minor in Leadership Studies?

Core courses include Introduction to Leadership Concepts, Behavior, and Global Leadership. Elective courses offer specialized topics like Advanced Leadership Behaviors and Management Principles.

What opportunities are there with a Minor in Leadership Studies?

With a Minor in Leadership Studies, students can pursue careers in nonprofit management, HR, marketing, project coordination, and more. They can also gain valuable hands-on experience through leadership development workshops and community service projects.

How can a Minor in Leadership Studies complement my major?

A Minor in Leadership Studies enhances communication and teamwork skills that are valuable in any field. It allows students to apply leadership principles to interdisciplinary projects and teams. It gives them a competitive edge in job markets that value leadership expertise.

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.

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