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Department Philosophy of the online Program

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Mission

Fort Hays State University is committed to the idea that the preparation of students for leadership is an essential component of the educational mission. The emphasis of the Leadership Studies Department program is to assist students in realizing their potential and responsibility for leadership by providing a comprehensive educational experience based on theory and practical application. The program’s mission, therefore, is to educate and nurture citizens to lead our communities, state, nation, and beyond.

Principles

The Leadership Studies Department is built upon four main principles. First, with the complex problems and challenges of our changing world, the need for leadership is greater than before. Effective leadership can make a positive contribution to a better quality of life at all levels of society. Second, leadership can be taught. It is possible to develop and provide students with a learning environment that will foster critical leadership skills and capabilities. Third, leadership education is not just for a select few, but rather, all individuals can and should benefit from leadership development activities. Emphasis is placed on leadership development rather than leader development. Fourth, importance is placed on providing a balanced and interdisciplinary approach to leadership study. While the theoretical literature in the field is interdisciplinary in content, our learning environment should also be interdisciplinary in nature.

Characteristics of Graduates

Graduates of the Leadership Studies Department will serve as architects and catalysts for change. Either as leaders or followers, these individuals will challenge the status quo and initiate and sustain transformational change for the collective good. Our graduates will be characterized as being:

• Knowledgeable - Able to understand leadership, self-reflect, think critically and have a holistic perspective.

• Civic Minded - A sense of community and a commitment to civic responsibility and action.

• Collaborative - Successful in interpersonal relationships and group interaction.

• Creative/Innovative - Able to problem solve and establish a vision for the future.

• Credibility/Trustworthy - Aware that honesty serves as the heart of integrity.

• Critical - Able to evaluate and question basic assumptions.

• Problem Solvers - Take an analytical approach to situational dilemmas.

• Risk Takers - Willingness to accept and pursue non-confident methods.
  
  

Learning Objectives

Leadership Studies learning activities are designed to encourage students to develop leadership potential and to engage in “productive” leadership behavior in the context of organizations. In essence, this program will enhance the current FHSU curriculum by instilling new thinking, attitudes and behaviors in our graduates. The Leadership Studies curriculum concentrates on both understanding and action. Consequently, Leadership Studies has adopted the following learning objectives:

• Understanding Leadership - Students will understand the processes and purposes of organizational leadership. The learners will be knowledgeable regarding the role leaders and followers play in making changes for the collective good.
  
• Competencies in Leadership – Students will be able to demonstrate and perform both personal and collaborative leadership skills. This includes the ability to think critically, make decisions, solve problems, communicate and successfully work in teams and in organizational settings.
  
• Commitment to Leadership - As leaders and followers, students will assume responsibility by actively engaging in service as agents of change for the purpose of making their organizations and communities a better place.