Master of Science in Strategic Leadership | Black Hills State University

Why Choose the BHSU Master of Science in Strategic Leadership (MSSL)?

Earn your master's degree online in Strategic Leadership while having the flexibility to do your coursework when it's convenient for you. The Online Master of Science in Strategic Leadership provides unique leadership training for individuals guiding organizations in today’s knowledge-driven global economy. This innovative, interdisciplinary program incorporates leadership theories, concepts, methodologies, and mentorship skills that are essential to leading and transforming organizations.

Program Overview

The MSSL program is designed to prepare students for advanced leadership positions and to foster career development in a variety of organizations including government, non-profit, and the military. Expert faculty in key leadership areas teach core coursework in areas such as visioning, motivation, creative problem solving, strategic thinking and decision making, innovation, leading organizational change, ethics, and effective communication. Live anywhere and grow your leadership skills with this 100% online program.

Students will participate in an innovative curriculum designed to meet the ever-evolving landscape of leadership theory in a fast-paced environment.

SLDR 695 Practicum
SLDR 710 Leadership and Innovation: Lessons Learned
SLDR 728 Levels of Leadership
SLDR 740 Leading Change: Ethics and Social Responsibility
SLDR 748 Social Change and Diversity
SLDR 752 Strategic and Analytical Decision Making
SLDR 770 Visioning: Strategic Planning
SLDR 775 Mentoring

In addition to the above core curriculum, students will take three elective courses meant to provide an individualized curriculum tailored to their needs. Possible electives include:

BADM 507 International Business
BADM 564 Organizational Behavior
PSYC 632 Psychology of Leadership
SLDR 792 Topic: Community Leadership
SLDR 792 Topic: Crisis Leadership
SLDR 792 Topic: Emotional Leadership
SLDR 792 Topic: Ethics in Leadership
SLDR 792 Topic: Team Building (Coming soon)
SUST 510 Fundamentals of Sustainability
SUST 710 Human Dimensions of Sustainability

And many more possibilities! Contact us to find out about other pathways for electives.

Online graduate studies application
Official transcripts documenting a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Personal essay describing the kind of leadership you have experienced or used in the past, what kinds of new skills you recognize you are weak in and need to add to your toolbox, and how you think the MSSL program can help you be a stronger and more successful leader both professionally and personally, such as in your community.

BHSU MSSL graduates have advanced into leadership roles across multiple sectors. Some sample job opportunities awaiting you include:

Human Resources Manager
Management Consultant
General and Operations Manager
Sales and Marketing Manager
Management Analyst
Project Manager
Non-Profit Manager
Top Executive
Leadership Roles in the Military
Coaching
Teaching