Program Overview

Master of Science in Leadership

The Master of Science in Leadership (MSL) program at Boston College is designed to meet the demand for adaptable leaders who can solve today's unique organizational challenges. Unlike other business degrees, such as an MBA, the MSL focuses on the people side of business, including ethical leadership, emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking.

At a Glance

• Two pathways: early leaders and mid-career professionals
• Ten courses: six core courses and four electives in a concentration
• Flexible format: full- or part-time online, on campus at night, or hybrid
• Affordable tuition: $1,168 per credit for the 2025-2026 academic year

Program Overview

The MSL program is designed for immediate career impact across industries. It offers four high-demand concentrations and is grounded in Ignatian principles, emphasizing leadership excellence and the pursuit of a full, meaningful life.

Learning Outcomes

The program's learning outcomes are marketable skills anchored in the program principles of enriching one's spirit, engaging others, and creating the future. These outcomes include:

1. Leading with purpose by translating vision into measurable results
2. Applying self-awareness and ethical reasoning to make well-reasoned decisions
3. Analyzing complex challenges using critical thinking and problem-solving skills
4. Building positive, collaborative relationships by engaging respectfully and empathetically
5. Designing and implementing change initiatives that apply leadership and strategic capabilities

What Can You Do with an MSL?

MSL graduates are equipped for leadership roles across industries, with a focus on ethical leadership, emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking. Career paths include:

• Project Manager
• HR Manager
• Nonprofit Leader
• Change Management Consultants
• Team/Department Leader Industries include:
• Healthcare
• Education
• Government/Public Service
• Nonprofit
• HR
• Operations
• Tech
• Consulting

Concentrations

The MSL program offers four concentrations:

1. Corporate Communications & Marketing: Four specialization courses, including The COO Toolkit, Mastering Media and Public Relations, Business & Marketing Analytics, and Cross Cultural Communications.
2. Human Resources Management: Four specialization courses, including Pathway to CHRO, HR Analytics, Leading the Future of Work, and Just Leadership.
3. Project Management: Four specialization courses, including Project Management, Agile Methodologies, Risk Management/Quality Management, and Leveraging Data in Project Management.
4. Management & Organizational Excellence: Four specialization courses, including The Art and Science of Strategy, Power, Influence and Persuasion, The Flourishing Leader, and Leading High Performing Teams.

Our Faculty

The MSL faculty have the "know why" and the "know how" to guide students toward leadership excellence. They blend theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, drawing from their diverse backgrounds and experience.

Financial Aid

Boston College is committed to helping students affordably achieve their educational goals. Financial aid and payment plans may be available for students taking a minimum of six credits across a semester.

Application & Deadlines

The application fee is $60, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis. The application timeline includes:

• Fall: Early deadline May 1, regular deadline August 15
• Spring: Early deadline October 15, regular deadline January 5
• Summer: Early deadline March 1, regular deadline April 1

Application Requirements

• Résumé
• Standardized tests: GRE or GMAT not required, but may be submitted if desired
• TOEFL or IELTS for non-native English speakers
• Letters of recommendation: two required, one academic and one professional
• Transcripts: unofficial uploaded to the online application, official submitted upon acceptance
• Personal statement: 500-750 words, addressing the prompt provided in the application

Interview

International students and non-native English speakers are required to participate in an interview as part of the application process. The program director may also request an interview with a candidate to better assess their qualifications for the program.

Tuition & Aid

Tuition and financial aid information can be found on the tuition and aid webpage. The program cost is $1,168 per credit for the 2025-2026 academic year.

Degree Completion

The program can be completed in 18 months, taking two courses per semester. Students can work full-time and pursue the degree, and the program is designed to be flexible to accommodate a variety of scheduling needs.

Woods College of Advancing Studies

Woods College offers Bachelor's and Master's degrees, certificates, and professional education opportunities. The college is committed to providing a high-quality education that is affordable and accessible.