Secondary Research & Writing (3 credits)                                    The analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of information from secondary and primary sources is discussed and practiced.  A special emphasis is placed on locating information using Warner Memorial Library electronic databeses; reading strategically; writing for academic audiences; and documenting source material in American Psychological association (APA) format.

OL
310

Leadership Formation and Development (3 credits)
Students will reflect on and evaluate individual leadership styles, values, beliefs  and areas for leadership development in the context of the Christian faith.  Study of leadership theories will include particular examination of ethical, spiritual, authentic, and servant leadership approaches along with discussion of implications for organizational practice.

OL
350

Organizational Theory (3 credits)
Theoretical foundations of the economic, structural, cultural, technological, and spiritual aspects of organizations are examined.   Using a variety of information sources, students formulate and investigate research questions related to contemporary issues in business, government, and non-profit sectors.  Special emphasis will be placed on understanding organizations as complex open systems that interact with multiple stakeholders while adapting to environmental pressures.

OL
380

Communication Strategies of the Leader (3 credits)
Students will develop and demonstrate communication skills appropriate for a variety of audiences and contexts including interpersonal, small group, public speaking, and online situations.  The importance of communicating vision as well as framing organizational issues effectively will be highlighted. *Prerequisite COM 222

OL
220

Statistical Analysis & Decision-making (3 credits)
Encountering statistics is inescapable in a world of ubiquitous information and rapid change. The ability to analyze, interpret, and apply statistical information is included among the critical skills necessary for strategic leaders to make informed decisions.  As such, the course provides a relevant context for introducing students to statistical concepts including descriptive statistics, probability, inferential statistics, correlation, and regression.  Ample discussion and practice will supplement comprehensive lecture material.

OL 
320

Research in Organizations (3 credits)
The scientific method of exploring and understanding phenomena is examined in the context of organizational studies.   Examples of published research will be analyzed, interpreted, and evaluated to acquaint students with contemporary and traditional methods of investigating organizational phenomena.   Important philosophical assumptions associated with quantitative and qualitative approaches to research will be considered along with the role of diagnostic inquiry in organizations.

INST 350

Judeo-Christian Perspectives on Leadership (3 credits)
Leadership concepts are studied in the context of God’s relationship with humankind throughout Old and New Testament Bible narratives.  The concepts of creation, sin, covenant, and redemption are introduced in the context of the nation of Israel’s formation and struggles with following God.  Ethical, spiritual, authentic, and servant leadership approaches are examined as God’s redemptive work through Jesus Christ is explored. Students reflect on the implications of the biblical narrative for leadership practice.  *Prerequisite INST 270

OL 
360

Essentials of Project Management (3 credits)
The project life cycle, planning and control processes, and people management aspects of project management are presented.  Students develop foundational knowledge and skill in managing projects while balancing constraints involving project scope, quality, schedule, budget, resources, and risk.

OL 340

Managing Ethics in Organizations (3 credits)
This course expands the study of  ethics as a matter of individual character to encompass how organizations play a key role in both encouraging and discouraging unethical behavior.   Common ethical dilemmas from various aspects of business practice are presented along with a consideration of how both leadership and management systems influence individual awareness, perception, and decision-making.    

Organizational Leadership Capstone Course (3 credits)
Students will apply knowledge and skills developed in previous courses to authentic cases involving opportunities for planned change.  Systematic and systemic analysis of an organization’s current state and desired state will be conducted as students work collaboratively to initiate and sustain momentum toward a strategic change initiative.  Final project deliverables include a comprehensive proposal and presentation to key stakeholders.