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Applied Leadership

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Leadership is a self-designed, 100% online program. It helps you build skills to lead people, work in virtual teams, communicate effectively, and develop critical thinking and innovation. The program includes core leadership courses plus electives that you choose to fit your personal and career goals. The program is designed to prepare students to excel in leadership, innovation, and remote team project work. The core areas of skill development focus on communications in organizations, organizational leadership, and critical thinking and decision-making.

Careers in Applied Leadership

Applied Leadership is designed for working adults and non-traditional students to advance professionally, take on a leadership role in a business or organization, or change professions.
  • Educational Support
  • Community Developer
  • Librarian
  • Manager/Team Leader
  • Marketing Associate
  • Nonprofit Fundraiser
  • Production Lead/Quality
  • Program Manager - Nonprofit
  • Project Manager
  • Sales Manager
  • Social Services Worker*
  • Volunteer Manager

Potential Salary

Median Salary $103,840

The median annual wage for Top Executives in May 2023 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Applied Leadership Degrees at MSU

Applied Leadership, Bachelor of Science

The fully online and flexible Applied Leadership program builds the skills to lead organizations, work in virtual teams, communicate effectively globally, and develop the critical thinking and innovative mindset to succeed in business, nonprofit organizations, public service and self-employment. 

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Choose Courses that Interest you

Start by clicking on an industry, then a list of upper division (300-400 level) courses that are offered fully online will appear as options toward your plan of study.

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Need Flexibility? We have five start times per year!

August  | October  |  January  | March  | June

Courses are available in 8- and 16-week blocks. Our flexible program allows you to balance work, family and other commitments. We'll help you create a study plan that fits your schedule. Plus, Minnesota State Mankato offers affordable credits eligible for financial aid and scholarships.

Related Programs

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Nonprofit Leadership

The Nonprofit Leadership Program (NPL) is a multidisciplinary applied program designed for undergraduate students and nonprofit practitioners interested in gaining the knowledge and skills necessary for success and advancement in nonprofit leadership and civil society.

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Business Administration

Business administration provides a broad understanding of business processes and day-to-day operations, with opportunities to work in areas like HR, healthcare, or hospitality and tourism. Our programs focus on developing strong leaders and managers ready to succeed in a global business environment.

Students around a desk working together, female student smiling.

Management

Become a skilled manager with our comprehensive programs. Designed to prepare you for leadership and innovation, you'll gain essential skills in management, entrepreneurship, and strategic decision-making. Learn human resources, quantitative methods, and leadership to drive success in any organization.

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Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Unlock your entrepreneurial potential with our Entrepreneurship & Innovation program. Open to all students, it empowers you to think like an entrepreneur, whether or not you start a new business. Create social, environmental, or economic value, and turn your ideas into reality.

Department of Applied Leadership

College of

Humanities and Social Sciences

The College of Humanities and Social Sciences is an inclusive community of diverse learners seeking to examine, engage with and transform the social world while nurturing creativity and innovation. Our programs build a foundation of knowledge that adapts to a constantly changing society.

Learn More About the College of Humanities and Social Sciences