The Minor in Leadership is an interdisciplinary course of study meant to complement any major on campus by introducing perspectives and competencies to empower students to exercise leadership in their roles as professionals and active citizens. It contributes to Radford University’s mission, which includes a mandate that “develops students’ creative and critical thinking skills, teaches students to analyze problems and implement solutions, helps students discover their leadership styles, and fosters their growth as leaders.”
Aspiring leaders will learn to engage the complex challenges of exercising authority and managing change in their professions, communities, the nation, and the world at large. The framework of learning experiences in the Leadership Minor is designed to empower students with the knowledge, skills, and values to lead effectively and ethically in different contexts.
Students will be exposed to the theories and tools of leadership and the use of authority as well as the practical strategies for undertaking what leaders do – communicate and negotiate, build and inspire teams, manage organizations and enterprises, solve problems, and produce results.
Required courses will incorporate experiential learning, team assignments, and reflection exercises for students to gain an appreciation of their own styles and aspirations, strengths, and weaknesses. These are steps toward greater self-awareness and personal effectiveness.
The Leadership Minor is administered by the Department of Political Science in the College of Humanities and Behavioral Sciences. The Minor is administered by the Director of the Leadership Minor housed in the department, and its courses are taught by faculty members from multiple disciplines.