University of La Verne

Programme overview

The Master of Science in Leadership and Management is a professionally oriented graduate programme that emphasizes leadership theory applied to real organisational challenges. Coursework typically blends leadership development, strategy, organisational behaviour, ethical decision-making, and project-based assignments so students build practical skills they can use immediately in supervisory and managerial roles.

What you'll study

Core study focuses on leadership practice and the managerial tasks of planning, implementation and evaluation. Typical themes include:

• Foundations of leadership and organisational behaviour
• Strategic management and decision-making
• Human resource and talent management from a leadership perspective
• Change management, conflict resolution and negotiation
• Data-informed management practices and performance measurement
• Ethics, diversity and inclusive leadership

Learning methods often combine case studies, project work, simulations, reflective assignments and applied capstones so students demonstrate transferable leadership capabilities rather than just theoretical knowledge.

Entry requirements

Applicants are generally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Many programmes prefer or require some professional experience in supervisory or managerial roles; applicants without work experience may be considered if they show strong academic preparation and leadership potential. Standard application materials include transcripts, a CV or résumé, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement describing leadership goals and relevant experience.

Career prospects

Graduates commonly move into middle- and senior-management positions across sectors — for example team leader, operations manager, programme director, HR manager, or management consultant. The degree supports career transitions into roles that demand stronger strategic thinking, people management skills, and the ability to manage organisational change. It is also useful for professionals seeking to formalise their leadership experience for promotion or lateral moves into different industries.

Scholarships & funding angle

Prospective students should investigate university scholarships, graduate assistantships, and merit-based awards that apply to master’s candidates. Employers sometimes sponsor part or all of tuition for staff development; discuss return-on-investment and study leave with your employer. Additionally, look for external fellowships, professional association grants, and low-interest education loans tailored to graduate-level business and leadership study.