Associate of Applied Science in Technology and Leadership (Leadership Studies)
Hours: 60 On-Campus Online
About
The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Technology and Leadership (Leadership Studies) at Fort Hays State University is designed to support military personnel in transitioning to civilian leadership roles. This distinctive program recognizes the value of military experience by awarding up to 30 credit hours for prior training, enabling service members and veterans to complete their degrees more efficiently.
With an emphasis on both technology and leadership, the curriculum equips students with practical, in-demand skills that are directly applicable in both military and civilian settings. Service members must complete 15 credit hours of core leadership courses in addition to their transferred credits.
Grounded in research-based theories of leadership and technology, the program ensures students receive a modern, relevant education that aligns with current industry and organizational needs.
Why pursue an Associate of Applied Science in Technology and Leadership (Leadership Studies) at Fort Hays State University?
The AAS in Technology and Leadership (Leadership Studies) program is specifically designed to support the educational goals of active-duty service members and veterans. The program offers generous credit for prior military training, allowing students to fast-track their education. This reduces the time and cost of completing a degree and honors the valuable skills and experiences gained through military service.
Flexible delivery options, available both online and on campus, allow students to balance their education with military responsibilities and personal commitments. The curriculum is designed to strengthen both technical and leadership competencies, preparing graduates to succeed in a wide range of professional settings.
To further enhance career prospects, students have the option to earn a Certificate in Leadership Studies, providing additional credentials that are highly valued by employers. With a strong focus on real-world application and modern leadership practices, the program equips graduates to excel in both military and civilian roles.
Who is this program for?
This program is ideal for individuals seeking to leverage their military experience into a valuable academic qualification. The program caters to a diverse group of students, including:
- Active service members looking to advance their careers
- Veterans transitioning to civilian roles
- Individuals seeking leadership positions
- Those aiming to enhance their technical skills
- Aspiring leaders in various industries
Real-World Applications
The program offers practical skills that are directly applicable to both military and civilian careers. Through hands-on fieldwork in leadership studies, students have an opportunity to apply theoretical concepts in real-world settings, reinforcing their understanding through experiential learning. This approach ensures graduates are well-equipped to navigate the complexities and demands of leadership roles across a variety of professional environments.
In addition to developing leadership competencies, the program provides advanced technical knowledge that can be applied across multiple industries. Whether transitioning to civilian employment or advancing within the military, graduates are prepared with the tools and insight necessary for success. With a strong focus on strategic thinking, organizational dynamics, and effective communication, the program offers a comprehensive and relevant education for those seeking to make a meaningful impact in their careers.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the latest advancements and emerging trends in leadership and technology. By integrating current, research-based theories, the program ensures that students gain knowledge of the most relevant and innovative practices in the field. This forward-thinking approach prepares graduates to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving job market and equips them to face future challenges with confidence.
Students engage in a dynamic, interactive learning environment that emphasizes cutting-edge leadership strategies and technological innovation. Courses are designed to address contemporary issues in organizational leadership and the integration of technology across various sectors. By staying ahead of industry trends, graduates are well-prepared to lead effectively, adapt to change, and provide immediate value to their organizations.
Hands-on Activities
FHSU places a strong emphasis on experiential learning within the AAS in Technology and Leadership (Leadership Studies). Students engage in fieldwork that provides real-world experience and practical leadership skills, effectively bridging the gap between academic theory and professional application. This hands-on approach ensures that students are well-prepared to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
In addition to fieldwork, the program incorporates interactive projects and simulations that mirror real-world leadership challenges. These activities are designed to develop essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective decision-making. Through this experiential learning model, students gain the confidence and competence needed to step into leadership roles and thrive in their professional careers.
What You’ll Learn:
- Develop leadership skills
- Gain advanced technical knowledge
- Understand organizational dynamics
- Apply strategic thinking
- Enhance communication abilities
How You’ll Learn:
- Online and on-campus options
- Fieldwork in leadership studies
- Interactive learning environments
- Research-based curriculum
- Flexible scheduling for military duties
The core curriculum offers a well-rounded education that integrates both leadership and technology. Students are required to complete 15 credit hours of core leadership courses focused on developing advanced leadership competencies and strategic thinking skills. These core courses, combined with up to 30 credit hours awarded for prior military training, enable students to progress efficiently toward degree completion.
Key topics covered in the program include organizational dynamics, advanced technical skills, strategic communication, and leadership theory. Designed with the unique needs of service members and veterans in mind, the curriculum is both flexible and highly relevant. By blending theoretical foundations with practical applications, the program prepares graduates to excel in a variety of professional roles across military and civilian sectors.
LDRS 300: Introduction to Leadership Concepts
This course engages students in exploring historical and contemporary leadership theories, concepts, and issues through presentations, group activities, and hands-on exercises. Students will develop a deeper understanding of leadership and its practical applications.
LDRS 302: Introduction to Leadership Behavior
This interdisciplinary course introduces students to the tasks, strategies, and skills of effective leadership, blending theory with practical application to develop personal and organizational leadership abilities.
LDRS 310: Field Work in Leadership Studies
This interdisciplinary course focuses on current issues in collaborative leadership, helping students understand its nature and key tasks. Students will identify a relevant issue or problem and apply their leadership skills by developing and implementing a community project.
Discover the full Associate of Applied Science in Technology and Leadership (Leadership Studies) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates are well-prepared for various rewarding career paths. This program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in military and civilian roles, opening numerous opportunities for professional advancement.
Military Leadership Roles
Graduates can take on leadership positions within the military, overseeing teams and managing projects. These roles require strong strategic thinking and organizational skills developed through the program's curriculum.
Civilian Management Positions
The leadership and technical skills gained from the program are highly transferable to civilian management roles. Graduates can pursue careers in various industries, managing teams, and driving organizational success.
Technical Specialist
Technical specialists work in fields such as information technology, engineering, and project management. They solve complex challenges and implement practical technological solutions in real-world scenarios.
Organizational Consultant
Organizational consultants help companies improve performance by advising on leadership strategies and technology integration. This role requires strong communication skills and a deep understanding of organizational dynamics.
Project Manager
Project managers lead projects from initiation to completion, ensuring goals are achieved on time and within budget. This role demands strong leadership, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills, all key areas emphasized in the program.
The Associate of Applied Science in Technology and Leadership (Leadership Studies) program at Fort Hays State University offers an accessible and supportive admissions process tailored to service members and veterans. With an open admission policy, the program welcomes applicants who are currently serving or have previously served in the military. This inclusive approach values the unique skills and experiences that military personnel bring to both academic settings and professional careers.
Eligible students may transfer up to 30 credit hours from their military training, significantly reducing the time and cost required to complete the degree. In addition to the transferred credits, students must complete 15 credit hours of core leadership courses to meet graduation requirements. Designed with flexibility in mind, the program offers both online and on-campus learning options to accommodate the demanding schedules of military-affiliated students.
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.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers several related programs that can complement or enhance the AAS in Technology and Leadership (Leadership Studies). These programs provide additional opportunities for specialization and further education:
- B.A./B.S. in Organizational Leadership
- BAS in Applied Leadership
- Certificate in Leadership Studies
- Master of Professional Studies (Organizational Leadership)
Our Associate of Applied Science in Technology and Leadership (Leadership Studies) program is available online and on campus, allowing flexibility to accommodate different schedules and needs.
Up to 30 credit hours can be awarded for military training, allowing students to complete their degree more quickly and cost-effectively.
Graduates can pursue various leadership roles within the military or civilian sectors, including management, technical specialist positions, and organizational consultancy.
This program offers flexible scheduling, credits for military training, and a curriculum designed to enhance leadership and technical skills, making it ideal for service members who must balance studies with their duties.
Yes, the program includes a Certificate in Leadership Studies, providing additional credentials that can enhance career prospects and professional development.
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.
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.
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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