Welcome to the Department of Leadership Studies.

The department is the home for an educational specialist program in Educational Leadership, and five master's programs. Master of Science degrees are offered in the following areas:  College Student Personnel Administrations (CSPA), Instructional Technology (ITEC), Library Media and Information Technologies (LIBM),  School Counseling, and School Leadership, Management, and Administration (SLMA).

The CSPA program provides two options for individuals seeking positions in higher education student services. Students may matriculate as full time students or enter the part time program. Full time students can complete the program in two years. Part time students matriculate at a pace determined by their individual circumstances. A cultural immersion experience is available as an optional experience. Students typically spend 10 days visiting universities in other countries to study their student services programs.

The ITEC program is a degree program designed for individuals who desire a technology leadership position within their professional arenas (i.e., education, business, non-profit organizations).

The  LIBM program is a degree and licensure program designed for individuals who desire a school library media position in P-12 schools. Candidates are required to hold a valid teaching license. LIBM licensure is contingent upon successful completion of the program and meeting the minimum score on the state mandated examination (PRAXIS II). The LIBM program is nationally accredited by both NCATE and AASL (American Association of School Librarians).

The School Counseling, SLMA, and EDLP programs are degree and licensure programs designed for individuals who desire leadership positions in P-12 schools. Candidates are required to hold a valid teacher's license. Licensure is contingent upon successful completion of the program and meeting the minimum scores on state mandated examinations. The school counseling program is a P-12 licensure program. The SLMA and EDLP programs are nationally accredited by the Educational Leadership Constituent Council. In addition to the MS degree for the SLMA program, individuals with appropriate master's degrees may pursue Arkansas licensure for building administrator, curriculum administrator, and program administrator through a program of study. Contact the department for details on these programs.

Philosophically, programs in the department are characterized by a commitment to leadership as both a field of academic study and as a practice that is a unique blend of knowledge, skill, and disposition. Program requirements provide students with challenging experiences that integrate theoretical concepts and ethical principles with practical applications. Each of the programs require significant internship experiences.

On behalf of the department, I invite you to accept the challenge and opportunity of preparing for a leadership role in an educational institution, governmental agency or non-profit organization.

Terry L. James, Ed.D., Chair

Contact Information:
230 Mashburn Hall
University of Central Arkansas
201 Donaghey Avenue
Conway, AR  72035
Departmental Office:  501.450.3282
Fax:  501.852.2826
E-mail:  Leadershipstudies@uca.edu