Study leadership abroad

Leadership is a broad field of study that analyzes how leaders operate in a range of social and cultural contexts. It looks at topics including power, ethics and mobilization.

As a leadership student, you’ll develop a detailed understanding of leadership as both a behavior and a relationship. You’ll examine theories and models of leadership, applying them to a variety of organizational settings.

Studying abroad will help to uncover your leadership potential. By immersing yourself in a new country and culture, you’ll hone your skills in adaptability and resourcefulness. You’ll also gain a global perspective by observing how the dynamics and responsibilities of leadership vary between different groups and locations.

Leadership is an academic field that is quickly growing in interest and popularity. It can be studied as a certificate program, BA, BSc, MA or PhD.

Undergraduate programs typically last between three and four years, whereas a master’s would take between one and two years to complete. You can also study leadership as a PhD which usually takes between four and seven years to finish.

In the US, you can select leadership as a major or minor component of your bachelor’s degree. You’ll allocate a certain number of credits to your leadership studies alongside completing your general education.

Leadership is a far-reaching discipline, so the exact content and structure of programs will vary depending on your university. You’ll usually be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials and independent study.

You’ll likely be assessed mainly through written coursework and practical delivery, but exams and presentations may also feature.

Here’s a list of core modules which appear in most leadership programs around the world:

• Approaches to leadership
• Leadership and development theories
• Leadership issues and dilemmas
• Attributes of productive leaders
• Making strategic decisions
• Conflict management
• Promoting organizational change
• Organizational systems and group dynamics

Global employers are always keen to find individuals who can successfully manage and mobilize teams. You’ll be prepared to lead by example in a multitude of roles, including:

• Police or probation officer
• Human resources manager
• Project manager
• Sales manager
• Teacher
• Politician
• Coach

Employers will often ask for evidence of your leadership capabilities besides your degree, such as leading a student society or club. It’s also a good idea to seek out some work experience in a company or team that you can see yourself heading up one day. Most universities will have a careers service to help you secure these opportunities.