Graduate Studies Courses

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Online Graduate Certificate in Strategic Leadership

NCU’s online Graduate Certificate in Strategic Leadership curriculum develops leaders for organizations, churches, the community, and the world. Students will gain increased self-confidence, a willingness to accept the responsibilities of leadership, and the knowledge and opportunity to apply leadership theories, principles, and skills in their field.

The online Graduate Certificate in Strategic Leadership program consists of the five courses below,
for a total of fifteen credit hours:

  • GLE 610 – Leadership Strategies & Change
  • GLE 600 – Spiritual Leadership
  • GLE 605 – Global Leadership
  • GLE 615 – History & Theory of Organizational Leadership
  • GLE 620 – Interpersonal Management

 

 GLE 610 - Leadership Strategies and Change

This course is an investigation of the analytical and process skills that enable leaders to make effective decisions, with emphasis on the manner in which leaders can bring about change in organizations by successfully introducing and presenting new ideas and procedures. It is a study of the methods and nature of strategic planning, including the constraints and opportunities leaders face in strategic planning, the leader's task in accommodating and minimizing these limitations, and the impact of these constraints on strategic choices. Topics include how to assess key factors in the change process, effective planning and how effective planning can assist in the task of managing an effective organization.

 GLE 600 - Spiritual Leadership

This introductory course explores the principles of leadership in both the cultural and spiritual areas. Various traditional, contemporary, and holistic models are surveyed, including the roles and responsibilities of spiritual leaders and their impact on the communities they lead. Particular attention is given to the development of the leader with an emphasis on character, style, spirituality, and growth.

 GLE 605 - Global Leadership

This course is an investigation into cross-cultural competences as essential components for meaningful human relationships and on a professional level for success as a leader. Leaders need to understand how to cope with the differing ideologies of our pluralistic, modern society. This course examines biblically grounded principles and models that will enable the student to understand the extent and realities of cultural diversity, helping the student to be an effective leader in a multi-cultural context. This interdisciplinary study deals with the leadership implications and strategies of the religious, ideological and cultural diversity that surrounds us in our local and global context. Special focus is given to the growth and dynamics of worldwide and local ethnic communities in order to form an understanding of leadership principles and practices.

GLE 615 - History and Theory of Organizational Leadership

This course examines the history and development of organizational theory, organizational design, and current practice regarding organizational structures and the dynamics of individual and collective behavior within organizations. A synthesis and integration of major traditions in organizational theory will help the student evaluate the impact of environment on organizational structure, culture, and leadership. Emphasis on the role of leadership and cultural values are considered from a Christian worldview. Emphasis will be placed on grounding theoretical concepts in personal and practical applications so students can better understand the chaotic and constantly changing world of organizations.

GLE 620 - Interpersonal Management

This course develops a conceptual foundation in the theory and practice of interpersonal dynamics. The development of successful leadership requires an understanding of group dynamics and multiple dimensions of interpersonal relationships as they affect individuals, groups, and the organizational whole. This course provides opportunities to participate in and analyze group behavior, understand the evolution of the group's life cycle, and become aware of the influence of non-verbal communication on members of a group in order to enhance an organization's accomplishment of its mission. Such topics as perception, personality, attitudes, and interpersonal communication will be addressed. This course will address various models of interpersonal behavior to managerial and organizational issues, while enhancing interpersonal competence, especially team-building, motivation, listening, and assertiveness skills.