Rider University will launch a Master of Arts program in organizational leadership in the fall that will allow students to refine critical thinking and problem solving skills, the ability to motivate and empower others, and the aptitude to communicate effectively and persuasively.

“We want to develop in students the ability to lead organizations ethically and effectively,” said Dr. Carol Brown, associate dean of the School of Education. “We want graduates of this program to gain a vision of leadership, values to guide their decisions, and the skills and knowledge to translate their vision into reality.”

Students will develop a core set of leadership skills that will enable them to: understand and apply effective leadership styles and models, use frameworks of ethical decision-making, build and lead cross-functional teams through coaching and mentoring, communicate effectively and persuasively within all levels of an organization, write and think more critically, develop conflict resolution and mediation skills, and understand how to use information and financial resources to advance organizations.

In addition to developing a core set of leadership skills, the program will allow students to concentrate in such specialties as communication, community agencies, healthcare, higher education and information technology. Students can choose between classroom-based or online courses.

To obtain a M.A. degree in organizational leadership, students will need to complete at least 36-39 credit hours, complete an internship/practicum (unless admitted with a year of leadership experience in the concentration area), pass a written comprehensive examination, and have maintained a GPA of 3.0 or better.

Students interested in this program must complete an application form, have official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended, have an undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 2.5, as well as a minimum GPA of 3.0 in graduate level courses they may have taken, and two current professional letters of recommendation.

For more information or to apply for the program, contact the Office of Graduate Admission at 609-896-5036 or via email at gradadm@rider.edu.