Master of Business Administration (Leadership Studies)

Hours: 33 On-Campus Online

About

The Master of Business Administration (Leadership Studies) program at Fort Hays State University distinguishes itself through a specialized curriculum centered on leadership, addressing gaps commonly found in traditional MBA programs. Students engage in comprehensive coursework covering leadership theories, systems thinking, change management, and team dynamics, thereby gaining a well-rounded understanding essential for effective leadership.

Designed to support a range of professional goals, the program offers flexibility for those seeking advancement in their current roles or transitioning to new career paths. By combining theoretical foundations with practical applications, graduates are equipped to navigate and address the complex challenges present in modern organizational environments.

Why pursue a Master of Business Administration (Leadership Studies) at Fort Hays State University?

The Master of Business Administration (Leadership Studies) program is designed for professionals aiming to enhance their leadership abilities and advance their careers by acquiring practical skills that can be immediately applied in their current roles.

The program’s experienced faculty combines real-world experience with academic expertise, providing personalized support and guidance throughout each student’s academic journey. Furthermore, the curriculum is regularly updated to incorporate the latest trends and developments in leadership, ensuring that students remain well-informed and equipped with the most current knowledge and skills.

Who is this program for?

This program is designed for professionals who aspire to enhance their leadership skills and advance their careers. The program is ideal for:

Mid-career professionals
Aspiring leaders and managers
Individuals interested in organizational development
Professionals seeking to enhance leadership skills
Those looking to lead change initiatives
Business executives seeking advanced leadership training

Real-World Applications

The curriculum is intentionally designed to be highly practical. It emphasizes leadership theories, systems thinking, and change management, equipping professionals with skills that can be directly applied across diverse organizational settings. Students participate in interactive projects and case studies that simulate real-world challenges, providing opportunities to practice and refine leadership strategies in a controlled environment.

The program ensures that graduates are well-prepared to address the complexities of modern organizational environments. By prioritizing applied learning, students not only grasp theoretical concepts but also develop the ability to implement these strategies effectively.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

A forward-thinking approach prepares students to anticipate and lead future organizational changes, making them valuable assets in any professional setting. The Master of Business Administration (Leadership Studies) introduces students to cutting-edge concepts and strategies that are reshaping the field of leadership. This program covers various modern leadership topics, from digital leadership techniques to contemporary change management practices.

Hands-on Activities

The Master of Business Administration (Leadership Studies) includes hands-on activities to enhance learning through practical experience. Students participate in workshops, simulations, and group projects that provide real-world context to theoretical knowledge.

Whether through case studies, role-playing scenarios, or leadership labs, students gain practical experience that prepares them for the challenges of leading teams and managing organizational change. A hands-on approach ensures that graduates can translate their knowledge into actionable leadership strategies.

What You’ll Learn:

Comprehensive leadership theories
Systems and change management
Team and minor group dynamics
Applied leadership strategies
Organizational development

How You’ll Learn:

Online and on-campus flexible learning
Applied coursework with real-world relevance
Interactive team projects
Case studies on leadership scenarios
Practical application of leadership theories

Courses

The core curriculum provides a comprehensive foundation in business management while focusing on specialized leadership topics. Students will study leadership theory, systems thinking, change management, and team dynamics. Below are a few of the courses in the Master of Business Administration (Leadership Studies) program:

LDRS 801: Theoretical Foundations of Leadership

This course explores organizational leadership theory and research, covering historical and contemporary approaches. Students will critically analyze research from theoretical and empirical perspectives, focusing on leadership at individual, team, organizational, and community levels.Top of Form

LDRS 807: Leadership in Teams and Collaborative Environments

This course explores leadership within team and group dynamics, focusing on team building, interpersonal relations, and effective problem-solving in collaborative environments. Emphasis is placed on the relationship between teams within organizations.

MBA 817: Strategic Management

This capstone course examines senior corporate management's role in long-range strategic planning and decision-making, utilizing skills and knowledge from the entire graduate program. It should be taken in the final term.

Discover the full Master of Business Administration (Leadership Studies) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Graduates are well-prepared for various leadership roles across industries. The program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in positions that require strong leadership, strategic thinking, and change management capabilities.

Corporate Manager

Corporate managers oversee teams, manage projects, and lead organizational initiatives. This role requires practical leadership skills, the ability to navigate complex team dynamics, and the capacity to drive strategic change within the company.

Human Resources Director

HR directors lead the human resources department, develop employee programs, and manage talent development. This position involves understanding team dynamics, implementing leadership strategies, and fostering a collaborative and productive workplace environment.

Management Consultant

Management consultants advise organizations on leadership strategies, organizational development, and change management. Responsibilities include planning, executing, and overseeing project activities to ensure they are completed on time and within budget.

Project Manager

Project managers manage projects from inception to completion. These responsibilities involve planning, executing, and overseeing project activities to ensure they are completed on time and within budget. Leadership skills will be essential in coordinating team efforts, managing stakeholder expectations, and navigating the challenges that arise during project execution.

Organizational Development Specialist

Organizational development specialists focus on improving organizational effectiveness through leadership development, change initiatives, and team-building strategies. The role requires a deep understanding of systems thinking, change management, and team dynamics.

Admission Requirements

MBA applications are accepted throughout the year, and admissions are made continually. It typically takes up to four weeks for an application to be processed. To ensure you're admitted for the upcoming semester, please submit your application at least 30 days before the start of classes. Applying early helps avoid any delays in your admission process. The FHSU Graduate School and MBA Committee will only review complete application packages, which must include the following:

A paid graduate application
Current resume
Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate coursework (in English)
Two (2) letters of recommendation (must be signed and on letterhead to be official)
Personal statement from student indicating reasons for seeking a Master of Business Administration degree, including professional and/or career goals and pertinent past work experience.
Other requirements as specified by the Fort Hays State University Graduate School - Apply through the FHSU Graduate School.
Please do not include a photograph on any application materials. Applications with photographs will not be reviewed.
All application materials should be sent to the FHSU Graduate School via email at gradschool@fhsu.edu or mail:

Graduate School
Fort Hays State University
600 Park Street
Hays, KS 67601

Questions regarding the application process can be directed to the FHSU Graduate School at 785-628-4236 or gradschool@fhsu.edu or Sarah Patterson, MBA Graduate Coordinator, at 785-628-5696 or gradcoordinator@fhsu.edu.

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 $11,817.18* (on-campus) or $12,396.78* (online) during their time as a student.

*Estimated costs are based on calculating the GR resident/regional tuition rate for on-campus students or the FHSU Online GR tuition rate plus the tuition rate for the MBA by the number of hours needed (24 MBA and 9 graduate concentration courses) to complete this program. 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 interested in the Master of Business Administration (Leadership Studies) may also consider the following related programs within Fort Hays State University:

FAQ

What are the admission requirements for the Master of Business Administration (Leadership Studies)?

Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 undergraduate credit hours, provide a personal statement, and submit two letters of recommendation.

Can I complete the Master of Business Administration (Leadership Studies) online?

The program is available online and on-campus, offering flexibility to accommodate your schedule.

What career opportunities can I expect after graduation?

Graduates can pursue roles such as corporate manager, HR director, management consultant, project manager, and organizational development specialist.

How does this program differ from other MBA programs?

Unlike other MBA programs that may not emphasize these areas, the Master of Business Administration (Leadership Studies) program offers a unique focus on leadership, with specialized courses in leadership theory, change management, and team dynamics.

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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