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?

The Minor in Leadership Studies stands out for its interdisciplinary approach, blending theory with practical applications. It emphasizes ethical leadership and community engagement, preparing students to make meaningful contributions in diverse settings.

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. 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<

Real-World Applications

The minor 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

The curriculum incorporates the latest advancements in leadership research and practice. Students explore 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 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 requires the completion of 21 credit hours, combining core and elective coursework. The core curriculum builds a strong foundation in leadership concepts and behaviors, offering both theoretical frameworks and practical insights. Students gain hands-on experience through applied learning opportunities that connect leadership principles to real-world challenges. The program also emphasizes a global perspective, preparing students to lead effectively in an increasingly interconnected world.

Beyond the core requirements, students can tailor their academic experience by selecting from a range of electives aligned with their personal interests and professional goals. These electives allow for deeper exploration of leadership practices, strategies for addressing global issues, and essential skills in team and organizational management. Altogether, the program equips students with a versatile and well-rounded skill set, preparing them to take on leadership roles across a variety of fields.

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 the 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

Non-profit managers lead strategic planning, program development, and daily operations, collaborating with stakeholders to address social issues. Strong leadership and organizational skills are essential to align programs with the organization’s mission.

Community Organizer

Community organizers lead grassroots efforts for social change, engaging and mobilizing community members. They use communication, strategy, and negotiation skills to advocate for policies that reflect community needs.

Project Coordinator

Project coordinators plan and manage projects, ensuring teams meet goals and deadlines. The role demands strong leadership, problem-solving, and organizational skills to deliver projects efficiently.

HR Specialist

HR specialists manage talent by recruiting, training, and retaining employees. They use leadership skills to boost engagement and develop policies that support organizational growth.

Marketing Manager

Marketing managers lead teams to plan and execute campaigns that align with organizational goals. They use creativity and strategy to build brand awareness and drive 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 $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/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 may also find these related programs appealing. They offer complementary skills and knowledge to support diverse career goals and provide additional opportunities 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?

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

The School of Criminal Justice, Leadership and Sociology at FHSU offers a diverse range of programs designed to prepare students for meaningful and impactful careers in law enforcement, leadership, and the social sciences. Through an integrated, interdisciplinary approach, students develop critical skills that equip them to address complex societal challenges and become effective leaders and professionals.

The Criminal Justice programs provide both online and on-campus options, focusing on areas such as law enforcement, corrections, and the legal system, with a strong emphasis on leadership, ethics, and integrity. Leadership programs cultivate essential organizational and interpersonal skills through interactive coursework and hands-on internships, supported by initiatives like the Leadership Studies Association and the VALUE program. Sociology programs explore human behavior, social structures, and community issues, encouraging analytical thinking and research-based problem-solving.

Together, these programs create a robust and collaborative educational environment that promotes cross-disciplinary learning. Students are empowered to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the broader society. Whether focused on justice, leadership, or social change, students in the School of Criminal Justice, Leadership and Sociology gain the knowledge and experience needed to make a lasting impact.

Student Organizations

While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.

Criminal Justice Club: Open to students majoring, minoring, or pursuing a certificate in Criminal Justice, as well as those majoring in Criminalistics, the Criminal Justice Club offers career-focused opportunities for service, networking, and social engagement. The club meets weekly during the academic year, with activities that vary each semester based on student interests. Volunteer options are available through local groups such as:
Delta Tau Omega: Students in the Criminal Justice Club have an opportunity to join the FHSU chapter of the American Criminal Justice Association, Delta Tau Omega. Membership in this organization allows students to participate in regional and national conferences, where they can engage in a variety of competitions, including written exams, mock crime scene investigations, physical agility tests, scholarly research poster presentations, and national research paper and scholarship contests. To remain active in the organization, students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA in their criminal justice coursework.
Sociology Club: Open to all students and majors, the Sociology Club promotes research on topics aimed at improving the community. The club actively collaborates with both the FHSU campus community and residents of Hays, hosting student engagement events and participating in a variety of community service projects. Its mission is to foster a deeper interest in sociology while highlighting the discipline’s importance in understanding society and enhancing the human condition.
Alpha Kappa Delta: Sociology majors may be eligible for membership in Alpha Kappa Delta, the honor society for sociology. This organization promotes academic excellence and fosters scholarship and fellowship among undergraduate and graduate students. To qualify for membership, students must have junior standing, a minimum 3.0 GPA in sociology, and at least 12 completed credit hours in sociology coursework.
Leadership Studies Association: The Leadership Studies Association provides students with opportunities to develop their leadership skills by building meaningful relationships, engaging in skill-building activities, and applying leadership in real-world settings. The organization encourages student growth through a variety of events and activities designed to foster personal and professional development.

Additional Information

Criminal Justice Centers

National De-escalation Training Center:

In August 2020, Fort Hays State University’s Criminal Justice Programs and University Police partnered with the National De-escalation Training Center (NDTC) to become the Region 2 Central Region Training Center. As a designated regional center, FHSU offers the only Level 3 de-escalation training currently available in the United States.

Level 1 training includes traditional de-escalation techniques grounded in procedural justice.
Level 2 provides basic crisis intervention strategies.
Level 3 enhances both traditional de-escalation and crisis intervention methods by incorporating rapid personality identification.

The NDTC De-escalation: Principles & Practice course is an evidence-based program that has been shown to increase officer confidence in applying de-escalation techniques when working with the public.

FHSU facilitates all three of NDTC’s training modalities, including an 8-hour online training, a two-day, in-person training, and a comprehensive 32- to 40-hour train-the-trainer program. Supported by substantial federal funding, these training opportunities are available to agencies at little to no cost. In addition, scholarships may be available to help agencies enroll 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:

Located within the Criminal Justice Programs at Fort Hays State University, the Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-Based Violence functions as a regional hub for collaborative research and community service. Its mission is to alleviate the barriers faced by survivors, promote economic independence, and empower survivors to embrace new opportunities with freedom and confidence.

The Center commits to providing sustainable support aimed at helping survivors break the cycle of violence and transform from victims/survivors into social entrepreneurs.

Focusing on gender-based violence in rural areas, the Center facilitates cross-disciplinary research that explores its causes and effective control measures. It leads collaborative networks of researchers committed to applying evidence-based approaches and identifying best practices to address gender-based violence within rural communities.

Additionally, the Center fosters academic-community partnerships through service-learning, research, assessment, education, and policy development, all designed to enhance the well-being and resilience of rural populations.

VALUE Program:

The Voss Advanced Leadership Undergraduate Experience (VALUE) is a year-long program designed to cultivate promising undergraduates into effective agents of change. It offers a combination of curricular and co-curricular experiences across three specialized tracks: corporate leadership, civic/nonprofit leadership, and scholarship/leadership research.

CNN Heroes Advisory Board:

The Sociology Programs focus on creating real-world impact through projects aimed at supporting those in need. A key initiative involves collaboration with CNN Heroes, individuals nationally recognized for their outstanding contributions to nonprofit organizations. The CNN Heroes Advisory Board, made up of these distinguished leaders, offers students valuable guidance and insights drawn from their successful experiences in the nonprofit sector.

Leadership Studies

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