Leadership Studies, M.A.
The Master of Arts degree in Leadership Studies (MLS) seeks students with the passion and dedication to join a new generation of leaders who will confront challenges in an increasingly complex and constantly changing world. MLS graduates have a deep understanding and appreciation of the dynamics of leadership, the convergence of leadership with other human relations, and the role of the individual as a leader in groups, organizations, and society. Through mastery of leadership theory and skills, graduates of the MLS program are prepared to succeed as leaders in their organizations, communities, nations, and the world.
The MLS is an interdisciplinary professional degree program that draws upon the social and behavioral sciences, the humanities, communication, public policy, technology, and STEM to explore and address complex leadership issues and dilemmas. MLS students develop an understanding of the leadership system as a process that includes leaders, followers, and context. In addition, they gain a deep appreciation of the dynamics and responsibilities of leadership.
Consistent with the University’s mission and commitment to citizen engagement and public and community service, this cutting-edge program responds to real world challenges and issues. The curriculum encourages students to embrace differences, behave ethically, model social and environmental responsibility, and uphold a commitment to advancing the common good. Courses challenge students to think critically and examine issues from varied perspectives, anticipate and facilitate positive change, strive for innovative sustainable solutions, and communicate effectively.
The MLS is offered in both a fully asynchronous online format (100% of course activities online and no on-campus requirements) and a blended format (at least 50% of the coursework online with class meetings that can be attended in person on-campus or virtually via web conferencing). Please note that while all required MLS courses are available in both fully asynchronous online and blended formats, some electives may only be offered in one format.
Intakes
- Jan
- May
- Aug
Application Processing Time in Days: 20
Minimum English Language Requirements
| English Level Description | IELTS (1.0 -9.0) | TOEFL IBT (0-120) | TOEFL CBT (0-300) | PTE (10-90) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Expert | 9 | 120 | 297-300 | 86-90 | |
| Very Good | 8.5 | 115-119 | 280-293 | 83-86 | |
| Very Good | 8 | 110-114 | 270-280 | 79-83 | |
| Good | 7.5 | 102-109 | 253-267 | 73-79 | |
| Good | 7 | 94-101 | 240-253 | 65-73 | |
| Competent | 6.5 | 79-93 | 213-233 | 58-65 | |
| Competent | 6 | 60-78 | 170-210 | 50-58 | |
| Modest | 5.5 | 46-59 | 133-210 | 43-50 | |
| Modest | 5 | 35-45 | 107-133 | 36-43 | |
| Limited | 4 | 32-34 | 97-103 | 30-36 | |
| Extremely Limited | < 4 | < 31 | < 93 | < 30 |
Job Opportunity Potential
The University of Maine System (UMS) has a wide array of benefits available to employees.
Our benefits not only enhance employees’ financial security and well-being, they also add significantly to their total compensation. We offer an excellent benefits package that includes paid time off (holidays, vacation and sick), health, dental, vision and life insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, a tuition waiver program for eligible employees and dependents, a 403(b) retirement plan and more.
PSW Opportunity
3 years PSW
Admission Requirement / Eligibility Criteria
Application requirements and deadlines vary by program. See the sections above to browse by program. Fully online programs will not meet eligibility for a student visa (I-20). On-campus courses will be required.
In addition to the standard application materials, international students must also provide the following materials before their application will be reviewed:
Provide financial documentation that shows you are able to support educational and living costs.
Additional requirements for applicants with an international college transcript
Submit an official evaluation of college-level transcripts approved by a National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) transcript analysis agency
Evaluations must be course-by-course and provide verification that the degree you hold is equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in the United States.
NOTE: Some universities in Canada are exempt
Additional requirements for specific programs
Creative Writing (MFA): Review additional residency requirements.
Additional requirements for international transfer applicants
If you currently hold an F-1 student visa in the United States and wish to transfer to USM from another college or university, you will need to complete a transfer form with the foreign student advisor at your current school.
If your first language is not English, you may be required to provide test scores or credentials for English language proficiency — unless you hold a degree from an English-speaking institution.
We accept the following test scores and qualifications for admission into undergraduate programs:
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
Scores of 79 or higher on the internet-based test
Scores of 550 or higher on the paper-based test
Scores of 213 or higher on the computer-based test
International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
Scores of 6.5 or higher
Pearson Test of English (PTE)
Scores of 60 or higher
Duolingo Test of English
Scores of 105 or higher
NOTE: We are accepting Duolingo scores on a trial basis for the 2022–23 academic year
- Course Type: Full Time
- Course Level: Masters/PG Degree
- Duration: 01 Year
-
Total Tuition Fee:
37500 USD
Average Cost of Living: 14000 USD /year
Application Fee: N/A