Master of Professional Studies in Organizational Leadership

Hours: 30 On-Campus Online

About

Are you considering a Master of Professional Studies in Organizational Leadership? Fort Hays State University offers a unique 30-credit-hour program designed for the challenges of modern organizations. Our curriculum focuses on leadership within contemporary organizations, challenging students to think critically, collaborate efficiently, and communicate effectively. Graduates gain a deep understanding of organizational dynamics, crucial interpersonal skills, and critical research abilities.

Why pursue a Master of Professional Studies in Organizational Leadership at Fort Hays State University?

Our program stands out due to its unique blend of theory and practice. We don't just teach leadership; we provide a curriculum that emphasizes the practical application of leadership skills in real-world scenarios. What's more, we place a significant focus on ethical leadership, ensuring that our graduates are capable leaders and ethically grounded individuals.

At Fort Hays State University, we recognize the importance of flexibility in today’s educational envionrment. That’s why we offer both on-campus and online options for our MPS in Organizational Leadership, designed to fit the needs of today’s students, making it ideal for working professionals and recent graduates.

We're committed to your career training and development. Our MPS in Organizational Leadership program goes beyond the classroom, offering guidance on identifying future innovations and providing leadership coaching. With a degree from our regionally accredited institution, you'll have access to various career opportunities in leadership roles across different fields.

Who is this program for?

The MPS in Organizational Leadership program equips individuals with essential leadership skills for various career opportunities. These are some examples of individuals for whom organizational leadership may be key:

Graduates looking to understand how organizations function and the role leaders play
Professionals seeking to enhance their interpersonal skills, problem-solving, collaboration, team building, motivation, and communication
Aspiring change-makers wanting to develop critical research and analytic skills
Career explorers interested in diverse opportunities, from human resources and healthcare management to nonprofit leadership
Goal-oriented professionals working towards career advancement and leadership positions
People with a fast-paced lifestyle who appreciate the flexibility of online programs

Learning Outcomes

The MPS in Organizational Leadership program at Fort Hays State University is designed to unleash your full leadership potential by focusing on comprehensive learning outcomes. These outcomes are the foundation upon which your success as a leader in diverse contexts is built. Here's an insightful breakdown of these possible outcomes.

Comprehensive Understanding of Organizational Dynamics

Our MPS in Organizational Leadership program equips you with a profound grasp of how organizations function and leaders' pivotal role in enhancing organizational performance. This knowledge is instrumental in making informed decisions and shaping the direction of organizations, whether they be civic institutions, corporate enterprises, government agencies, or global entities..

Emotional Intelligence Mastery

With a focus on interpersonal skills, you’ll develop emotional intelligence to navigate complex human interactions. This skill is invaluable for building strong relationships, addressing challenges, fostering collaboration, motivating teams, and enhancing communication – all vital to success in today’s multifaceted society. It will enable you to connect with your team and inspire them toward a shared vision.

Strategic Problem-Solving

One of the key pillars of our MPS in Organizational Leadership program is empowering you to become an astute problem solver. You'll learn to design contextually appropriate plans to overcome leadership challenges and acquire the insight to analyze and diagnose complex issues within organizations. This critical skill ensures that you're equipped to address the root causes of issues effectively rather than merely treating the symptoms.

Effective Communication

As an organizational leader, communication is at the core of your role. You'll be adept at delivering appropriate messages using suitable communication channels in a given context, ensuring your team or organization understands and embraces your ideas and strategies. Effective communication is the bridge that connects your vision with your team's actions, making it a central aspect of successful leadership.

Real-World Applications

The MPS in Organizational Leadership program hones critical research and analytic skills, which are vital for diagnosing organizational challenges. Beyond theory, students gain practical abilities to initiate and lead transformative changes within organizations and professions.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Our commitment to providing cutting-edge education hinges on our dedication to incorporating the latest advancements and trends into our curriculum. We achieve this through a blend of research-based theories and robust curriculum evaluations, ensuring our students are well-prepared for the challenges of the ever-evolving organizational leadership landscape.

Hands-on Activities

The MPS in Organizational Leadership program at Fort Hays State University offers a range of hands-on activities, including LDRS 890, which allows students to dive into real-world experiences through internships or research projects. Students can apply their knowledge in practical settings, gaining valuable insights into leadership and management.

What You’ll Learn:

Focus on ethical leadership and practical application
In-depth understanding of organizational dynamics
Mastery of emotional intelligence for interpersonal skills
Strategic problem-solving and critical analysis
Effective communication for leadership success

How You’ll Learn:

Unique blend of theory and practice
Flexible on-campus and online learning options
Real-world applications, hands-on activities
Guidance on identifying future innovations
Access to career opportunities in diverse fields

Courses

The curriculum of our MPS in Organizational Leadership program is thoughtfully designed to provide students with a comprehensive and holistic education in the field of leadership. It covers a wide array of topics that are essential for aspiring leaders in today's dynamic and knowledge-driven world.

Throughout the program, students acquire a strong leadership theory and principles foundation. They delve into historical and contemporary theories, concepts, and issues associated with leadership, gaining a deep understanding of the intellectual underpinnings of effective leadership.

LDRS 660: Global Leadership

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the emerging field of global leadership. Students will gain an understanding of the history and origins of global leadership and the theoretical approaches to global leadership in complex, modern contexts. Students will be challenged to access primary sources of global leadership literature, and think deeply and critically about the current state of theoretical development in global leadership. Students will also explore various global leadership competencies and learn how to apply these competencies in various regions and cultures throughout the world.

LDRS 802: Organizational Systems, Change, and Leadership

This class will challenge students to embrace a systems view of leadership and organizational change at the organizational level. Students will compare, contrast and critique both seminal and modern theories and models of organizational learning, knowledge creation, and organizational capacity building and apply them to their own organizational settings. The course will enhance student ability to think systematically and develop comprehensive understanding of core competencies required to initiate and sustain change in organizations

LDRS 811: Organizational Intervention Strategies

Students will learn processes and techniques for building leadership capacity in individuals and organizations. Students will diagnose leader and leadership development needs and will develop practical applications for creating, implementing, and assessing a comprehensive leader and leadership development program for an organization.

Discover the full Master of Professional Studies in Organizational Leadership course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

The MPS in Organizational Leadership is designed to prepare our graduates for a promising career in the dynamic job market. We aim to equip students with the key skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen fields.

Human Resource Professional

Graduates of our MPS in Organizational Leadership program excel in talent acquisition, employee development, and creating a positive workplace culture, making them a valuable asset to any organization. As HR professionals, they guide organizations in recruiting top talent, optimizing personnel management strategies, and ensuring compliance with employment laws. Their ability to foster a supportive and inclusive work environment increases employee engagement and satisfaction.

Project Manager

The ability to coordinate and manage projects while fostering teamwork and efficiency ensures successful project outcomes. Project managers oversee the entire project lifecycle, from initiation to completion, effectively meeting deadlines, managing resources, and mitigating risks. Their leadership skills are crucial in navigating the complexities of project execution, ensuring that objectives are completed on time and within budget.

Strategic Planner

Strategic thinking is at the core of our MPS in Organizational Leadership, equipping our graduates for roles as strategic planners. They analyze market trends, set goals, and develop business strategies, helping organizations thrive in competitive environments. Strategic planners are pivotal in defining an organization's long-term vision and goals. They analyze thoroughly, identify growth opportunities, and create comprehensive strategic plans to position their organizations for success in a constantly evolving business landscape.

Organizational Development Specialist

As an organizational development specialist, your main goal is to drive positive change within a company. You will help foster employee growth and enhance overall organizational effectiveness. This will involve assessing the organization's current state, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing strategic interventions to achieve these goals.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the MPS in Organizational Leadership program is a competitive process, and meeting these requirements is a crucial step toward your academic and professional success. Here's what you need to know.

Letters of Recommendation

Applicants must submit two (2) letters of recommendation from professors and colleagues who can attest to the applicant's ability to excel in graduate-level studies. These recommendations should provide insight into your academic and professional qualifications.

Professional Resume

You should include a comprehensive professional resume highlighting your educational and work background, emphasizing relevant experiences and skills that make you a strong candidate for the MPS in Organizational Leadership program. This document should serve as a testament to your professional journey and readiness for graduate studies.

Personal Statement

In this statement, you should discuss your background, why you are applying to the MPS in Organizational Leadership program, and how it aligns with your personal and professional goals. This is an opportunity to showcase your motivation and commitment to the program, allowing the admissions committee to understand your aspirations better.

Grade Point Average

Individuals seeking admission to the MPS in Organizational Leadership must have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 on their last 60 undergraduate credit hours. Maintaining a strong academic record is an essential factor in the admission process.

Submission of Application Materials

Prospective students must also submit all relevant application materials to the Fort Hays State University Graduate School. Ensure you provide all the necessary documents and follow the application guidelines to complete your submission. A thorough and organized submission is critical to a successful application process.

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 $2,475.09* (on-campus) or $3,047.58* (online)* per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the Graduate resident/regional tuition rate ($275.01/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate (338.62/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

Fort Hays State University offers several programs closely related to the MPS in Organizational Leadership program, providing diverse options to cater to your specific interested and career goals.

FAQ

How long are semesters in the MPS in Organizational Leadership program?

The MPS in Organizational Leadership program consists of fall and spring semesters. There is both eight and sixteen week options for courses depending on the student’s preference.

How long will it take to complete the MPS in Organizational Leadership program?

It may take you as little as 18 months to complete the MPS in Organizational Leadership, although it could take longer, depending on your pace and schedule.

Is the MPS in Organizational Leadership program accredited?

Yes, Fort Hays State University is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. This means that whether you are pursuing an online Bachelor's Degree or MPS in Organizational Leadership, or a specialized program credential, you can be confident that your courses meet the rigorous accreditation requirements. The MPS in Organizational Leadership program does not have a specialized accrediting body.

Can I complete the MPS in Organizational Leadership program completely on campus?

Yes, you can complete the MPS in Organizational Leadership program on campus; in addition, online options are also available for added flexibility.

How hard is the Master of Professional Studies in Organizational Leadership program?

Both on-campus and online MPS in Organizational Leadership can be challenging but highly rewarding. Success requires dedication, effective time management, and a passion for leadership.

What can I do with an MPS in Organizational Leadership?

An MPS in Organizational Leadership opens doors to leadership roles in various industries, from HR management to business consultancy.

Is an MPS in Organizational Leadership worth it?

Yes, an MPS in Organizational Leadership is worth it. It enhances leadership skills and can lead to better job prospects and higher salaries.

What does an MPS in Organizational Leadership get me?

Fort Hays State University’s MPS in Organizational Leadership equips you with advanced leadership and management skills, making you a valuable asset for leadership positions across diverse sectors.

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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