Bachelor of General Studies Degree
Concentration in Organizational Leadership
The Bachelor of General Studies (BGS), Organizational Leadership Concentration is a four-year liberal arts degree which provides students with an innovative curriculum that focuses on the study of leadership in the context of modern organizations. The primary purpose of this degree program is to blend the traditional outcomes of a general education, which provides breadth, and a specific Organizational Leadership concentration that provides curriculum depth in leadership and organizational behavior. This degree program is also designed to provide maximum flexibility for those students who desire to play a greater role in determining the content of their academic study. Those who participate in Organizational Leadership have a strong foundation in the theories of leadership and organizational behavior as well as the competencies and desire to put knowledge into action.
This liberal arts program provides students with a strong academic foundation and prepares them for either graduate school or the job market after graduation. With the 21st century's arrival, the need for people with leadership and organizational skills is only growing more necessary. Graduates are well suited for occupational positions in the fields of human relations and resources. They acquire and develop leadership and supervisory skills that will assist them in the fields of personnel management, general supervision, public administration, and human relations to mention only a few. Finally, students complete an extensive internship as a part of their plan of study, making them "readily employable" and experienced in the "real world" upon graduation to assume various professional positions in their chosen occupations or professions.
The BGS Degree in Organizational Leadership is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to be effective in a variety of organizational settings. First, students develop a deep understanding of how organizations function and what role leaders at all levels can play in improving organizational performance. Second, students gain important
Outstanding Leadership Program Award Recipient
Association of Leadership Educators
practical skills essential for success in their chosen professions. Skills in interpersonal relations, problem solving, team building, motivation, and communications are all necessary to be successful in today's world. Students completing the BGS Degree in Organizational Leadership program will find themselves well prepared to be productive and quality members of the work force.
- Advantages of the BGS Degree
- Provides students with breadth in subject matter.
- Provides maximum flexibility to students in developing their program of study.
- Most experts agree that a strong background in the liberal arts - a generalist approach - is the best preparation for leadership.
- Ideal for students seeking employment opportunities in human relations (business, industry, education, social services, etc.)
- Combines theory with practical application in the study of organizational leadership.
- Provides both multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary approach to the study of leadership.
- Ideal for students who are looking for a unique program to prepare them for the challenges of leadership in the 21st century. (FHUS is one of only a few colleges and universities in America providing a comprehensive academic leadership program.)
- Illustrates the student's full commitment to the field of organizational leadership and development.
- Upper division organizational leadership courses are highly individualized to meet the needs and interests of the student (electives, readings, and internships.)
- Internship opportunities help prepare students for immediate employment upon graduation.
- Program course work stresses critical skills necessary to be effective in modern organizations.
Curriculum Outline
Organizational Leadership Courses
- LDRS 300 Introduction to Leadership Concepts (required) (3 Credit Hours)
- LDRS 302 Introduction to Leadership Behavior (required) (3 Credit Hours)
- LDRS 310 Field Work in Leadership Studies (required) (3 Credit Hours)
Electives in Leadership Studies (or related courses) - 12 Credit Hours
- IDS 407 Global Challenges
- LDRS 306 Leadership and Team Dynamics
- LDRS 420 Women and Leadership
- LDRS 450 Advanced Leadership Behaviors
- LDRS 460 Global Leadership
- LDRS 490 Topics in Leadership Studies (various topics each semester)
- LDRS 640 Principles of Civic Leadership
- LDRS 650 Principles of Organizational Leadership
- LDRS 670 Leadership and Personal Development
- LDRS 677 Internship in Leadership Studies
TOTAL HOURS: 21 Credit Hours
Open Electives
These electives allow students the option to pursue a secondary
concentration emphasizing their individual talents and career interests. (54 Credit Hours)
TOTAL DEGREE HOURS: 120 Credit Hours