Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership

Hours: 120 On-Campus Online

About

The Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership at Fort Hays State University focus on developing adaptable and high-performing leaders for today’s dynamic workplace. Emphasizing both academic excellence and real-world application, the programs foster critical thinking, collaboration, and effective communication, equipping students to succeed and add value in a wide range of professional environments.

Why pursue a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership at Fort Hays State University?

FHSU offers Kansas’s only undergraduate degree in leadership, blending the depth of an organizational leadership major with the flexibility of a liberal arts education. The comprehensive B.A./B.S. in Organizational Leadership programs prepare future leaders with the broad knowledge and versatile skills necessary to make an impact across various industries.

Who is this program for?

Leadership is a highly sought-after skill across a wide range of industries and career paths. With a comprehensive curriculum and flexible learning formats, these programs are designed to accommodate the needs of students, working professionals, and emerging leaders. They are especially beneficial for:

Individuals pursuing career advancement
Those seeking a global perspective
People in the nonprofit sector
Aspiring managers
Supervisors who wish to be more effective
People involved in organizational development and improvement
Anyone interested in driving positive organizational change and improvement
Professionals in human resources

Real-World Applications

Fort Hays State University is dedicated to preparing students to adapt and succeed in real-world environments. Through coursework focused on leadership, interpersonal development, and hands-on application, graduates emerge as capable and influential professionals. The programs place a strong emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving, equipping students to address complex workplace challenges with confidence. Additionally, students build strong communication skills and learn to collaborate effectively within diverse teams.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Staying ahead of emerging trends is essential for today’s students, which is why the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership integrate the latest developments in the field into their curriculum. The programs actively incorporate current research and relevant theoretical frameworks, ensuring that students learn from leading experts. The curriculum is also regularly reviewed and updated to reflect the evolving needs of organizations and industry demands.

Hands-on Activities

The LDRS 310 course provides students with hands-on experience as they plan and implement a leadership project within their community. LDRS 493, the Capstone in Leadership Studies, focuses on key areas such as organizational behavior, leadership development, and corporate social responsibility. In addition, both programs include six credit hours of cognate requirements, allowing students to tailor their studies to match their individual interests and career aspirations.

What You’ll Learn:

Broad leadership knowledge and skills
Comprehensive leadership beyond specific management areas
Development skills to take on complex workplace challenges
Project planning and implementation
Clear communication with various individuals

How You’ll Learn:

Engaging in practical applications and adaptability
A degree tailorable to individual preferences
Access to resources for academic success
Focus on critical thinking and communication
Incorporation of the latest industry advancements

Courses

The curriculum covers fundamental concepts and contemporary issues in leadership. Students examine both historical and modern leadership theories, develop vital skills such as conflict management, and gain a comprehensive understanding of organizational dynamics. This preparation equips them for success across a variety of industries.

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 laboratory exercises.

LDRS 450: Advanced Leadership Behaviors

The behaviors and skills necessary to be effective at doing leadership will be explored through both the leader and follower perspectives. Advanced influence, motivation, decision-making, conflict/negotiation strategies, and meeting management will be examined primarily in the interpersonal context. Course materials and activities will challenge students to connect theory to practice.

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.

Discover the full Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership or Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

In today’s job market, individuals with strong leadership skills and a solid understanding of organizational dynamics are highly sought after across many industries. Graduates have access to a wide range of rewarding career opportunities.

Human Resource Professional

Human resource professionals manage employment relations and strategic planning within organizations. They oversee recruitment processes, employee training, and development, and ensure compliance with employment laws and regulations.

Project Manager

Managers are essential for coordinating and executing various projects within organizations. They oversee project timelines, budgets, and resources to complete projects efficiently and meet organizational objectives.

Strategic Planner

Planners play a crucial role in shaping companies' long-term vision and direction. They analyze market trends, competitor strategies, and internal capabilities to develop strategic plans that drive growth and sustainability.

Organizational Development Specialist

Organizational development specialists focus on improving organizational efficiency and effectiveness through innovative strategies. The position involves assessing organizational needs, designing and implementing development programs, and evaluating their impact on organizational performance.

Public Relations Specialist

Public relations specialists are responsible for managing communication between organizations and the public. This role prepares communication strategies, manages media relations, and addresses public concerns to enhance the organization's reputation and brand image.

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

Fort Hays State University offers additional courses designed to enhance leadership skills and prepare individuals for success in today’s society. The programs support double majors and minors in related fields, providing flexible options for students. Some comparable offerings include:

FAQ

What distinguishes the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership?

These programs offer a comprehensive curriculum in many management areas.

What is the difference between the B.S. and B.A. in Organizational Leadership programs?

Students pursuing a B.A. in Organizational Leadership are required to complete ten credit hours of instruction in a language other than English. This requirement is designed to provide students with a broader cultural and linguistic perspective.

In contrast, the B.S. in Organizational Leadership does not mandate foreign language study, allowing students to focus more intensively on technical and scientific coursework within their field of study. Despite this key difference, both degree programs share similar overall requirements in terms of total credit hours and core coursework. This equivalence ensures that, regardless of the degree path chosen, students achieve a comprehensive education within their major field of study.

How do the programs cover various aspects of leadership studies?

The programs cover various aspects of leadership studies through rigorous coursework, practical applications, and real-world scenarios.

Are there specific courses or practical experiences focused on organizational leadership within the major?

The curriculum includes specific courses and practical experiences focused on organizational leadership. For example, the LDRS 310 course allows students to gain experience through leadership projects. The programs also include 9 credit hours of electives, allowing the programs to be customized for each student.

What career opportunities does completing a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership offer?

The programs open doors to various career paths. Some examples include human resource professionals, project managers, public relations specialists, and more.

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.

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