Graduate Certificate in Leadership

Advertisement

The MA in Leadership program consists of two years of interdisciplinary study. In each year, students focus on relevant, real world problem-solving projects grounded in a rigorous theoretical understanding of the nature of todays organizations and the changing role of leadership within them. Comprehensive leadership studies address adult learning, emotional intelligence, communication and conflict, systems thinking, team facilitation and development, organizational change, and action research inquiry.

The MA in Leadership program is specifically designed to attract working professionals. It is structured on the basis of two intensive residency periods, followed by distance learning. This allows participants to substantially enhance their educational credentials, while minimizing absences from their workplace.

The MA in Leadership is further distinguished by balancing professional diversity and interdisciplinary study, with the need for sector specific knowledge and problem solving skills. This is accomplished by having a common curriculum for all students in the first year and an independent, work-based problem-solving project in the second year.

Core Competencies

Throughout the program, students assess their personal and organizational learning needs against our seven core competencies:

* Personal Leadership
* Managing and Enabling Learning and Change Processes
* Communication
* Team Leadership and Group Facilitation
* Systems Thinking
* Organizational Leadership
* Organizational Inquiry and Research

Curriculum

Curriculum content is driven through developing a sophisticated understanding of the following areas:

* Leadership
* Systems Thinking and Planning
* Learning and Teaching
* Organizations and Organizational Change
* Research and Inquiry
* Team Building
* Communication
* Character
* Ethics
* Style
* Creativity

Outcomes

Graduates of the MA in Leadership will gain research and consulting skills, and become better communicators and more confident leaders with the ability to:

* Identify, analyze, and build solutions to organizational challenges
* Manage positive organizational change
* Leverage technology to empower yourself and your organization
* Develop effective, high performance teams
* Manage an organizations internal and external political environment
* Communicate effectively with colleagues, clients and other stakeholders
* Implement change and achieve results

Continuing Education Leadership Opportunities

The School of Leadership Studies currently offers select online learning courses as Continuing Education opportunities.

The Leadership program at Royal Roads University is designed to cultivate innovative, ethical, and strategic leaders capable of navigating complex organizational environments. This comprehensive program combines theoretical foundations with practical application, preparing students to excel in diverse leadership roles across various sectors. Throughout the coursework, students will engage with core concepts such as transformational leadership, ethical decision-making, change management, and organizational development, enabling them to understand the dynamics of leadership within modern contexts. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to apply their knowledge through real-world projects, case studies, and collaborative initiatives.

Participants will develop critical skills in effective communication, conflict resolution, team building, and stakeholder engagement, all essential for success in leadership roles. The program also emphasizes personal leadership development, fostering self-awareness and emotional intelligence to enhance individual effectiveness. With flexible delivery options, including online and hybrid formats, the Leadership program accommodates working professionals seeking to advance their careers without interrupting their current commitments.

Rigorous academic standards are maintained through interactive lectures, seminars, and reflective practices, guided by experienced faculty members who are experts in leadership, organizational behavior, and strategic management. Graduates of the program will be equipped to lead change initiatives, influence organizational culture, and make ethical decisions that benefit their organizations and communities. Whether pursuing roles in government, non-profit, or private sectors, students will emerge from the Leadership program prepared to make a meaningful impact as thoughtful, innovative, and resilient leaders.

The Leadership program at Royal Roads University requires applicants to possess a completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. Prospective students must submit official transcripts demonstrating their academic history and relevant coursework. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of two years of work experience in a leadership or related role, showcasing practical application of leadership skills and principles. Applicants are also required to submit a resume or curriculum vitae outlining their professional achievements and experiences pertinent to leadership. A personal statement or letter of intent is necessary, wherein applicants articulate their motivation for pursuing the program, their career goals, and how the program aligns with their professional development plans. Furthermore, some reference letters from supervisors or professional contacts are recommended to verify the applicant’s leadership potential and work ethic. proficiency in English is mandatory; therefore, applicants must demonstrate language proficiency through standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS if applicable. The program may also require an interview, conducted either in person or via video conference, to assess the candidate’s communication skills, motivation, and readiness for graduate-level study. International students might need to provide additional documentation, such as a study permit or visa application details, depending on their country of residence. The program emphasizes experiential learning, so applicants with relevant leadership experience will be considered favorably. The program's admission process is competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance. Once admitted, students are expected to complete all mandatory coursework, participate actively in seminars and group projects, and undertake a capstone project that integrates theory and practice in leadership. It is recommended that applicants review the specific admission guidelines and deadlines on the official Royal Roads University website to ensure a smooth application process.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Royal Roads University offers comprehensive financing options for students enrolled in their Leadership programs. Tuition fees vary depending on the specific program, with graduate courses generally costing between approximately CAD 15,000 and CAD 30,000 per year. To support students financially, the university provides a range of scholarships, awards, and bursaries designed to recognize academic achievement, leadership potential, and specific demographic or professional backgrounds. These funding opportunities are competitive and require applicants to submit detailed applications demonstrating their qualifications and commitment to leadership development.

In addition to institutional scholarships, students enrolled in Leadership programs can access government financial aid programs such as student loans and grants. These schemes help offset the costs of tuition and related expenses, making higher education more accessible. The university also encourages prospective students to seek external funding sources, including private scholarships offered by community organizations and industry partners relevant to leadership and management careers.

Royal Roads University promotes employer sponsorship for employees pursuing leadership education, where organizations may cover tuition fees or provide reimbursement programs as part of professional development initiatives. Payment plans are often available to distribute costs over multiple semesters, easing the financial burden on students. Furthermore, veterans and active military personnel may be eligible for specialized funding options provided through federal or provincial programs.

International students should explore additional funding opportunities and may benefit from specific scholarships aimed at international applicants. The university’s financial aid office offers guidance on navigating these options and provides personalized assistance to help students identify funding sources suited to their circumstances. Overall, the university’s financing studies enable students from diverse backgrounds to invest in their education and leadership skills, fostering a vibrant academic community committed to developing ethical and effective leaders for various sectors.

The Royal Roads University offers a comprehensive Leadership program designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in various leadership roles across multiple sectors. This program emphasizes the development of strategic thinking, ethical decision-making, effective communication, and change management, allowing graduates to navigate complex organizational environments confidently. The curriculum integrates theoretical frameworks with practical applications, utilizing case studies, collaborative projects, and real-world scenarios to foster experiential learning. Students have access to a diverse range of courses, including organizational behavior, conflict resolution, innovation management, and public policy, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of leadership principles. The program also offers opportunities for specialization, enabling students to focus on areas such as community leadership, executive leadership, or sustainability. Faculty members are experienced professionals and academics who bring a wealth of industry insights into the classroom, supporting a dynamic learning environment. Through mentorship programs, internships, and networking events, students can build meaningful connections within the leadership community and enhance their career prospects. The university’s focus on interdisciplinary learning prepares graduates to lead effectively in governmental, non-profit, private, and international organizations. The Leadership program is suitable for current professionals seeking to upgrade their skills, aspiring leaders aiming to deepen their understanding of leadership concepts, or individuals transitioning into leadership roles. By engaging in this program, students will develop critical competencies needed to initiate change, influence stakeholders, and contribute positively to their organizations and communities. Recognized for its flexible delivery modes, including online and hybrid formats, the program accommodates working professionals and those with diverse schedules. Overall, Royal Roads University’s Leadership program aims to cultivate innovative, ethical, and strategic leaders prepared for the challenges of the modern world.