Program Overview

Master of Arts in Ethical Leadership

The Master of Arts (MA) in Ethical Leadership equips students with the skills, competencies, and capacities necessary for leading the next generation of effective, ethical, and socially responsible global corporations and communities. The program is designed for individuals looking to advance their organizational standing and maximize the potential of those working in industry, government, education, and nonprofit organization settings.

Program Overview

The MA in Ethical Leadership leverages best practices and innovative leadership strategies to create a foundation for organizational and community change. In alignment with the St. Thomas University Mission, the Master of Arts in Ethical Leadership program develops students’ ethical leadership capacity through interdisciplinary coursework focusing on and integrating leadership theory and practice, ethics and morality, complex problem-solving, decision-making, creativity and innovation, efficiency, team development strategies, diversity and inclusion practices, practical experience, and people management, creates the foundation for applied ethical leadership within a variety of professional contexts and advances individual and organizational performance. Graduates create value for their organizations, demonstrate the ability to ethically inspire action and a shared vision in others, make effective decisions within fast-paced environments, improve organizational effectiveness and teamwork, and increase profitability.

Specializations

The MA in Ethical Leadership degree program provides students with a strong foundation in leadership principles, ethical decision-making, and organizational strategy. To further specialize their expertise, students can choose from focused tracks that align with key industries and career paths.

Higher Education

The specialization in Higher Education equips students with the skills, competencies, and capacities necessary for leading within institutions of higher education. Attention will be set on developing students as effective, ethical, and socially responsible higher education leaders. The program is designed for individuals looking to advance their work and standing in college and universities and maximize their potential. The program leverages best practices and innovative leadership strategies to create a foundation for organizational change.

In alignment with the St. Thomas University Mission, the Higher Education specialization develops students’ ethical leadership capacity through interdisciplinary coursework focusing on and integrating leadership and higher education theory and practice, with an ethical foundation for working with diverse student populations. Graduates create value for their institutions, demonstrate the ability to ethically inspire action and a shared vision in others, make effective decisions within fast-paced environments, improve organizational effectiveness and teamwork, and increase profitability.

Sports Administration

The specialization in Sports Administration combines experiential learning with leadership theory to prepare students for impactful roles in the sports industry. Through challenge-based projects, teamwork, and applied research, students develop problem-solving and decision-making skills essential for navigating real-world challenges in sports management. The program incorporates innovative technology and data-driven strategies, ensuring graduates are proficient in modern tools that enhance communication, marketing, and operational efficiency within sports organizations.

Career Landscape

This versatile degree can open doors in sectors where ethical considerations and responsible leadership are valued, such as business, healthcare, government, education, and nonprofit organizations. Emphasizing values-driven leadership and integrity, graduates can become Chief Ethics Officers, Executive Directors, Policy Analysts, Higher Education Administrators, and many other positions where they can make positive contributions to society.

In the Classroom

Classroom sessions in this program are interactive and focused on real-world application. Students might engage in case study analyses to resolve ethical dilemmas, participate in leadership simulations after guest lectures from industry professionals, or explore ethical theories through reflective discussions. These sessions combine practical problem-solving with ethical frameworks, with top faculty helping students apply leadership theories and navigate complex decisions in real-world scenarios.

Ethical Leadership Fast Facts

• Maximum Accessibility: Fully online, self-paced courses designed to give working professionals the flexibility to learn on their own schedule.
• Fast Track to Graduation: Full-time working professionals can complete the program within one calendar year, though this is achieved by only a small percentage of students.
• Transfer Credits: Up to 12 credits beyond a bachelor’s degree can be accepted accelerating program completion.