Leadership Studies

Introduction

The Morse Leadership Institute is committed to creating a culture of belonging and care so students can become effective, collaborative, and inclusive leaders. Students engage in active learning, reflective inquiry, critical thinking, empirical research, and experiential practice in the program. While Leadership Studies are based in the social sciences, curricular initiatives include interdisciplinary contributions from the arts, humanities, sciences, applied and professional studies.

The Institute supports campus partners who provide curricular, co-curricular, and extra-curricular opportunities aimed at student leadership learning so that all WWU students can engage in their desired social and professional change efforts. While the Institute provides a minor in Leadership Studies, students from any department or program on campus may take many courses offered by the Institute. Advisors in the program will work with students to find electives or connections with majors to make the LDST minor more accessible for students to complete.

Program Objectives

Students in Leadership Studies will develop knowledge in the following areas of study:

the definitions, perceptions, and impacts of leadership.
the cultural and contextual forces that influence leadership processes and outcomes, especially as it relates to individuals’ social experiences and identities.
theories of leadership and their implications for leadership practice and development.
the relationship between leadership and power in social relations.
the connection between leadership style and team effectiveness.
the role of leadership in creating and managing change.
the ethical issues and consequences of leadership action.
the process of leadership and followership development.

For more information, contact the Morse Leadership Institute at 360-650-4000 or email Morse.Institute@wwu.edu.

Faculty

KAREN ROHRBAUCK STOUT (2000) Bowman Distinguished Professor of Leadership Studies and Director of the Morse Leadership Institute. BA, University of Puget Sound; MA, University of Montana; PhD, University of Utah.
HOLLY DIAZ (2013) Associate Director, Morse Leadership Institute. BA, Western Washington University; MA, Saybrook University, LIOS; MA, Antioch University; PhD Antioch University.

Programs

Undergraduate Minor

Leadership Studies Minor

Courses

Leadership Studies

Courses numbered X37; X97; 300, 400 are described in the University Academic Policies section of this catalog.