Leadership Studies

Introduction

The Leadership Studies program engages students in the formal study of leadership as a phenomenon that students observe, reflect on, and participate in. Through Leadership Studies, students become familiar with the practice and consequences of leadership in a variety of cultural and historical contexts. Empirical research, reflective inquiry, critical thinking, and the analysis of leadership theory, research, and practice are integral to the Leadership Studies program. While Leadership Studies are based in the social sciences, curricular initiatives will include interdisciplinary contributions from the arts, humanities, sciences, and applied and professional studies.

Program Objectives

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

the definition of and impact of leadership
the cultural and contextual forces that influence leadership processes and outcomes
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 development

For more information, contact the Karen W. Morse Institute for Leadership at (360) 650-2292 or visit Old Main 480.

Faculty

JOSEPH E. GARCIA (1984) Bowman Distinguished Professor of Leadership Studies and Director of the Karen W. Morse Institute for Leadership. BA, State University College of New York at Cortland; MA, Western Washington University; PhD, University of Utah

Courses

Leadership Studies

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