Agricultural Education and General Agriculture
The Department of Agricultural Education and General Agriculture features one undergraduate major, Agricultural Sciences, and a graduate MS degree in Agricultural Education. A transcript-visible option in Agricultural Education is also available under the PhD in Education offered by the College of Education.
Agricultural Sciences is an undergraduate studies program that provides maximum flexibility in designing and structuring a course of study to meet the students' personal and professional needs. With a degree in Agricultural Sciences, students can receive a wide-ranging education that covers agriculture production, agribusiness, leadership, agricultural communications, agricultural education, resource management, and environmental/sustainability issues, to name a few. Agricultural Sciences should be considered by students desiring agricultural programs of study that combine a variety of skills and subject matters. Students have used this major to prepare to return to their family farming/ranching operation, become an agricultural entrepreneur, work in the agricultural communication sector, work for Extension, be a lobbyist, go into production agriculture, work in agricultural sales, or work for state or federal agricultural programs. Not to mention, if you’re interested in becoming an agriculture teacher, an Agricultural Sciences degree is an ideal first step. It allows you to integrate the breadth of agricultural-based prerequisite courses required for the Masters of Agricultural Education graduate/licensure program. Additionally, this degree is a great stepping stone for students who are not sure what specific sector of agriculture they would like to study, but who know they are interested in an agricultural career.
The goal of the Agricultural Sciences program is to help students identify the agricultural career that best fits them and creates a course of study to help them get there. This undergraduate degree program is available both on-campus and Ecampus and provides flexibility in designing and structuring a program of study to meet students' individual career and personal goals. Students work closely with advisors to align their academic plan with career paths and passions.
Agricultural Education is a graduate degree that combines leadership development, pedagogy, experiential learning, and classroom instruction to teach others the importance of agriculture, food, and natural resources. Agricultural educators teach (both formally and informally) these subjects using a variety of content areas such as science, communication, leadership, math, and technology. This program is ideal for students who want to teach high school or college level agricultural courses. However, a person who receives a graduate degree in Agricultural Education is not solely locked into teaching. Potential occupations also include lobbyist, outdoor education, professional facilitator, communication education coordinator, industry communication director, and Extension work. Both master and PhD level candidates work with an advisor to develop a program of study that meet their specific needs as indicated by their occupational goals. The Agricultural Education masters degree aligns with an initial teaching license in Oregon. The Agricultural Education PhD program is in partnership with the College of Education.
Undergraduate Minors
- The Agricultural Education minor is designed for students who are considering a future career in agricultural or outdoor education, either as a teacher, non-formal educator or community education coordinator. It provides a transcript-visible credential demonstrating formal learning related to hands-on education and educational philosophy, with an emphasis on field-based learning. The minor is ideal for students with a College of Agricultural Science major, but is open to any major at OSU. The minor does not provide a teaching certification, but pairs well with the pre-requisites required for the Agricultural Education masters degree (graduate teaching certification program). This minor is also available via Ecampus.
- The Agricultural Sciences minor is available for undergraduate students who have majored in an agricultural or natural resource area that requires the addition of breadth in agriculture to their major program. The minor provides the appropriate technical agriculture background for students interested in agricultural management, agricultural communication, environmental studies, etc.
- The Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources Communications minor prepares students for careers in communications, marketing, and public service roles in the agricultural, natural resources, forestry, and environmental sciences disciplines. This minor allows for students who may be well-versed in the technical knowledge of their science-based agriculture or natural resources discipline to effectively communicate vital information about agriculture and natural resources to a multitude of audiences through a variety of mediums such as infographics, podcasts, policy briefs, and press releases. This minor is also available via Ecampus.
- The Comparative International Agriculture minor provides students with formal instruction in international agricultural concepts and practical experiences through global awareness coursework, language immersion via study/research abroad, and/or international fieldwork. The 27-credit curriculum prepares students for successful international careers, or those seeking graduate studies in international agriculture programs. This minor is also available via Ecampus.
- The Leadership minor is designed for all undergraduates interested in developing premier leadership, enhancing professional competencies, and fostering the skills necessary to meet the local, national, and international needs of our society. The Leadership minor is centered on leadership theory (education), trait/skill development (training), and application (development). It is designed to allow students to apply the coursework in a relevant and relational manner. This minor is also available via Ecampus.
Career Opportunities in Agricultural Sciences
Career opportunities for Agricultural Science majors are unlimited because of the customizable nature of the program structure. Students can return to home farms or ranches, move into agricultural middle management, become extension staff, go into political lobby positions, work in agricultural communication or marketing firms, go into international agriculture, become high school agriculture teachers, teach outdoor education, go into agricultural sales, or start their own agricultural business to name a few. Salaries vary depending on the position a student may strive to achieve. Students have opportunities to work for nonprofits, state or federal organizations, private industry groups, or through self-employment.
Undergraduate Studies Curriculum
High school and college transfer students who are admitted to Oregon State University as an undergraduate are eligible to participate in the Agricultural Sciences program. Students do not need to come from an agricultural background or have previous agriculture experience or knowledge to join the major. Agricultural Sciences majors, in consultation with their departmental academic advisor, may plan elective coursework to emphasize personal interests, abilities, and career objectives. Leadership, agricultural communications, and agricultural education are areas of emphasis that are available and are specially designed for those students who need essential skills to go along with their technical agriculture knowledge. A teacher preparation area of emphasis is also available, which follows the prerequisites for the Agricultural Education Masters degree. The Agricultural Sciences program is designed to prepare the future leaders, communicators, teachers, and entrepreneurs of the agricultural industry.
Undergraduate Programs
Major
Minors
- Agricultural Education
- Agricultural Sciences
- Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources Communications
- Comparative International Agriculture
- Leadership
Graduate Programs
Major
Minor
Certificate
Jonathan Velez, Department Head & Professor of Leadership and Agricultural Education
Strand Agriculture Hall 130B
170 SW Waldo Place
Corvallis, OR 97331
Phone: 541-737-1336
Email: jonathan.velez@oregonstate.edu
Website: https://agsci.oregonstate.edu/ag-ed/department-agricultural-education-and-agricultural-sciences/
Agricultural Education Graduate Program
Josh Stewart, Director of Agriculture Teacher Education
Strand Agriculture Hall 130A
170 SW Waldo Place
Corvallis, OR 97331
Phone: 541-737-3552
Email: josh.stewart@oregonstate.edu
Faculty & Staff
Agricultural Education (AED)
AED 235, INTRODUCTION TO AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION, 2 Credits
Introduces students to the field of agricultural education. Explore the historical foundations and career pathways in non-formal and school-based agricultural education. Topics will include school-based agricultural education, non-formal and extension education, and agricultural literacy. Develop career skills and a plan to pursue a future career in agricultural education.
Available via Ecampus
AED 313, EARLY FIELD EXPERIENCE, 4 Credits
Explores the agricultural education profession through this advanced form of early field experience. Observes a formal or non-formal agricultural education program and assists with instructional and non-instructional activities. Gains a better understanding of the day-to-day activities involved in facilitating an agricultural education program, whether formal (school-based) or non-formal (4-H, Extension, etc.).
Available via Ecampus
AED 325, PLANNING AND DELIVERING NON-FORMAL AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION, 3 Credits
This course uses adult learning theory and practice, including planning non-formal agricultural education programs for youth and adults, methods of instructional delivery, effective use of instructional technology, marketing agricultural education programs, and evaluation of agricultural education outcomes. Microteaching (practice teaching presentations) and group presentations required as part of laboratory assignments.
Available via Ecampus
AED 407, SEMINAR, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
AED 499, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
AED 501, RESEARCH, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
AED 503, THESIS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
AED 505, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
AED 507, SEMINAR, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
AED 508, WORKSHOP, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
AED 509, PRACTICUM, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
AED 510, PROFESSIONAL INTERNSHIP: AGRICULTURE EDUCATION, 1-40 Credits
A field experience in which the intern will integrate academic study with classroom teaching experience to learn specific competencies relating to functioning well in the context of the classroom and the school, and demonstrate this competency through the assessment of work by supervisors and by evidence collected and presented in work samples.
This course is repeatable for 40 credits.
Available via Ecampus
AED 518, EXTENSION COURSE IN TEACHER EDUCATION/PEDAGOGY, 1-3 Credits
Enables present and prospective teachers of agriculture to continue their professional development on pedagogical topics of current importance.
Equivalent to: AG 518
This course is repeatable for 50 credits.
Available via Ecampus
AED 552, PROGRAM ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT, 3 Credits
Explores the foundations of vocational education, essential learning skills, advisory committees, and development of a vocational education philosophy. Students will study the elements of educational reform as they apply to specific service areas. Resource analysis, student organizations, and school-to-work transitions will also be studied.
AED 553, APPLIED INSTRUCTIONAL STRATEGIES, 3 Credits
Helps students in the identification and development of goals, objectives and units. The course includes the development and application of subject area instructional strategies/models, including applied math, writing, communication skills, measurement and evaluation of achievement, and delivery of instruction to at-risk students. Safety is a primary focus.
AED 554, MICRO-TEACHING, 3 Credits
Planning, presenting and evaluating lessons in a micro-teaching lab. It includes application of content pedagogy strategies, subject matter principles and media technology. Lessons presented on safety.
AED 555, LABORATORY PEDAGOGY, 3 Credits
Applications of efficient planning, organizing, and teaching skills within the laboratory setting and utilization of laboratory facilities to optimize learning experiences. Laboratory facilities could include a shop, greenhouse, land laboratories/outdoors, agriscience labs, aquaculture, computer lab, field trips, etc.
Available via Ecampus
AED 556, LINK RESEARCH, TEACHING, AND PRACTICE, 3 Credits
Links research to teaching. Students will work with cooperating teachers to identify and apply research to teaching.
AED 557, ISSUES AND TRENDS IN CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION, 3 Credits
Emphasizes trends related to subject matter curriculum issues unique to agricultural education at the secondary level.
AED 558, IMPROVING AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS, 3 Credits
Provides impetus toward evaluation and improvement of local programs of agricultural science and technology (AST), such that they better reflect community, regional, and national needs.
AED 580, COMMUNICATING AGRICULTURAL AND LIFE SCIENCES TO THE PUBLIC, 3 Credits
Focuses on communicating with the public about research-based science in agricultural and life sciences for the purposes of education, influencing public policy, promoting positive agricultural practices and creating change. Explores various communication outlets and media and how they are appropriate for different messages.
AED 599, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
AED 603, DISSERTATION, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
AED 640, INSTRUMENTATION AND DATA COLLECTION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE, 3 Credits
Addresses the selection, development, and analysis of various types of quantitative instruments and procedures for collecting research data. The course has a quantitative focus and is oriented toward social science research.
Recommended: ED 620 or equivalent introductory research methods course
General Agriculture (AG)
AG 111, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IN AGRICULTURE, 3 Credits
Using information technology in agriculture and agribusiness; practical experience with computer programs applicable to all agricultural disciplines.
Available via Ecampus
AG 199, SPECIAL STUDIES, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
AG 200, ORIENTATION TO THE AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES MAJOR, 2 Credits
Exploration of Agricultural Sciences major and career opportunities.
Available via Ecampus
AG 230, INTRODUCTION TO EXTENSION AND ENGAGEMENT, 3 Credits
For students interested in pursuing a career with the OSU Extension Service. An introduction to the OSU Extension Service mission, philosophy, history, organization, structure, administration, program areas, Extension program development, Extension teaching and delivery methods, and the involvement and use of volunteers.
This course is repeatable for 6 credits.
AG 301, *ECOSYSTEM SCIENCE OF PACIFIC NW INDIANS, 3 Credits
Designed and presented in partnership with Pacific Northwest Indians and Alaska Natives, focusing on natural ecosystems, differing views, power relationships, policymaking, and gender roles. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPDP – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Difference/Power/Discrimination
Available via Ecampus
AG 311, *NATIVE AMERICAN AGRICULTURE, 3 Credits
Explores Native North American agriculture and land management--prehistory of important domesticates such as maize, historic change, and contemporary issues including modern stereotypes, women in agriculture, cultural survival, and both the physical and spiritual significance of these crops in Native American communities and around the globe past and present.
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity
Available via Ecampus
AG 321, *WOMEN IN AGRICULTURE, 3 Credits
Explores and celebrates women in agricultural sciences in Oregon, in the U.S., and from around the world. Examines a spectrum of topics related to women in agriculture locally to globally: women’s roles in agricultural communities, women’s roles in agricultural production and food security, women-driven agricultural development, gender roles in agriculture in rural areas and women's agency and challenges. Provides a broad picture of women’s contributions to agricultural practices and research, throughout history and in contemporary societies.
Attributes: CSST – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Science/Technology/Society
Available via Ecampus
AG 351, *COMMUNICATING GLOBAL AGRICULTURE & NATURAL RESOURCES ISSUES, 3 Credits
Examines the interdependence between agriculture and natural resources on a global scale. Explores the best options to advance the agriculture industry to provide food for a growing population while conserving natural resources. Investigates how to best communicate their findings in a manner that is consumable and appealing to the general public.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues
Available via Ecampus
AG 391, FARM IMPLEMENTS, 3 Credits
Power farming implements including operation, maintenance, adjustments, calibration and use are covered. Field trips may be required.
Available via Ecampus
AG 401, RESEARCH, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
AG 402, INDEPENDENT STUDIES, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
AG 403, THESIS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
AG 405, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
AG 406, SPECIAL PROBLEMS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
AG 407, SEMINAR, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
AG 409, PRACTICUM, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
AG 410, INTERNSHIP, 1-16 Credits
A work internship to give students practical on-the-job preparation in any of the main facets of agriculture or related industries.
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
AG 412, AG SAFETY AND HEALTH, 3 Credits
An examination of various hazards associated with agriculture. Control strategies will be explored and prevention methods identified. Hazards examined include machinery, livestock, controlled spaces, pesticides, and other items common to the agricultural workplace.
Available via Ecampus
AG 421, ^WRITING IN AGRICULTURE, 3 Credits
Students will synthesize their knowledge in various areas of agricultural sciences and analyze how current issues impact the agriculture industry, explore careers in agriculture, and develop their written communication skills. Students will share their ideas and demonstrate their learning primarily in writing.
Attributes: CWIC – Bacc Core, Skills, Writing Intensive Course
Available via Ecampus
AG 425, DEVELOPMENTS IN AGRICULTURAL MECHANICS, 3 Credits
Emphasis on the development of instructional units for agricultural instruction programs. Wide applications to agricultural mechanization and biotechnology.
This course is repeatable for 9 credits.
AG 435, PROFESSIONAL PRESENTATIONS IN AGRICULTURE, 3 Credits
Students will learn to effectively create and deliver professional presentations relevant to careers in agriculture and natural resources. This includes developing skills for both formal and informal presentations, using visual aids effectively, and using appropriate strategies to engage various audiences.
AG 445, SOCIAL MEDIA ADVOCACY IN AGRI SCIENCES & NATURAL RESOURCES, 3 Credits
Through practice and application, students develop the ability to communicate effectively in writing using social media and other digital platforms for business purposes, including internal communication, stakeholder engagement, educational messaging, event promotion, and product marketing.
Available via Ecampus
AG 455, *RISK AND CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS IN AG SCI & NATURAL RESOURCES, 3 Credits
Examine potential risk and crisis communications scenarios in agriculture, natural resources and environmental sciences, plus the relevant theories, models, and processes involved in addressing these types of situations effectively. Explores the mitigation, management, and response to risks and crises from a communications perspective with special application to natural resources, along with agricultural and environmental sciences, hazardous situations through completing case studies and creating a risk and crisis communications manual. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions
Available via Ecampus
AG 465, AG SCI AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMUNICATIONS MINOR CAPSTONE, 2 Credits
Reflect on accumulated knowledge and technical/soft skills gained and conceptualize how to apply communication theories and practices in the context of future agricultural and natural resources careers. Integrate real-life agriculture and natural resources communications scenarios, which will allow for the practice of strategy development, proper implementation, and appropriate assessment methods. Helps package and demonstrate skills verbally and in a portfolio.
Prerequisite: AG 351 with D- or better
Available via Ecampus
AG 499, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-4 Credits
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
AG 507, SEMINAR, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
AG 509, PRACTICUM, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
AG 518, EXTENSION COURSE IN TEACHER EDUCATION: TECHNICAL, 1-3 Credits
Enables present and prospective teachers of agriculture to continue their professional development on technical topics of current importance.
Equivalent to: AED 518
This course is repeatable for 9 credits.
Available via Ecampus
AG 521, WRITING IN AGRICULTURE, 3 Credits
Students will synthesize their knowledge in various areas of agricultural sciences and analyze how current issues impact the agriculture industry, explore careers in agriculture, and develop their written communication skills. Students will share their ideas and demonstrate their learning primarily in writing.
Available via Ecampus
AG 525, DEVELOPMENTS IN AGRICULTURAL MECHANICS, 3 Credits
Emphasis on the development of instructional units for agricultural instruction programs. Wide applications to agricultural mechanization and biotechnology.
This course is repeatable for 45 credits.
Available via Ecampus
AG 808, WORKSHOP, 1-4 Credits
Designed to enhance professionalism and create a knowledge base to increase personal effectiveness. This course will provide a basis for future leadership by synthesizing theoretical knowledge with practical application. Individuals will have the opportunity to explore their own personality, reflect on their leadership ability, and develop the professional skills and networking abilities necessary to become influential leaders in their home, community and profession.
This course is repeatable for 4 credits.
Leadership (LEAD)
LEAD 242, PERSONAL LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT, 3 Credits
Examines content related to leadership traits, styles, and effective leadership tactics. An introductory course designed to create awareness and develop the employability skills necessary for participants to be productive contributors in their school, home, community and profession.
Available via Ecampus
LEAD 252, *MULTICULTURAL LEADERSHIP, 3 Credits
Explores and examines the dynamic subject of multicultural leadership from multiple perspectives, using examples from throughout the U.S. and around the world, and employs an international lens for inquiry. Emphasizes "effective" leadership across cultures; cultural styles and awareness; social dimensions of culture; leading with cultural intelligence, and multicultural leadership effectiveness. Builds multicultural leadership competencies in order to create effective and mindful leaders. Prepares students to be global leaders in their prospective communities.
Attributes: CPCD – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Cultural Diversity
Available via Ecampus
LEAD 342, *TEAM AND ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP, 3 Credits
Examines the planning, implementation and evaluation of organizations, and challenges students in the development of effective communication, group dynamics, conflict management, teambuilding and problem solving. Students will explore the development of successful teams, multiple roles within teams, improving group performance, group decision making, how to manage conflict in teams, enhancing diversity in teams, creating a culture of creativity and innovation, and the evaluation of teams.
Attributes: CPSI – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Social Processes & Institutions
Available via Ecampus
LEAD 401, LEADERSHIP RESEARCH, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
LEAD 405, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
LEAD 407, SEMINAR, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
LEAD 409, PRACTICUM, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
LEAD 410, LEADERSHIP INTERNSHIP, 1-16 Credits
Students apply what they have learned through both the leadership theory and trait/skill development portion of the Leadership minor.
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
LEAD 430, FOUNDATIONS OF ADVENTURE LEADERSHIP, 3 Credits
Examines leadership concepts utilized in adventure education and provides a foundation for leadership opportunities. Presents an overview of the history, theoretical foundations and utilization of adventure leadership. Focused leadership topics include theoretical foundations of adventure leadership, learning styles in effective leadership, facilitation techniques in leadership activities, and situational leadership tactics.
LEAD 432, BACKCOUNTRY LEADERSHIP, 3 Credits
Prepares students to be leaders in outdoor settings by building the practical and logistical skills needed in the effective delivery of courses and/or trips. Covers the teaching skills and essentials for trip leaders in the wilderness, including trip planning, logistics, risk management, and group interaction in the backcountry. Focuses on leadership development and leading groups, focus on special populations, social justice, and situational leadership skills.
Prerequisite: LEAD 430 with C or better and (PAC 325 [C] or PAC 325H [C])
LEAD 433, TEACHING AND LEADING TECHNIQUES FOR OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, 3 Credits
Plans and executes an activity course for students, including class sessions and at least one outing. Emphasizes teaching and leading groups through outdoor activities at a professional level, including risk management, trip logistics, policies, response plans, evacuation skills, situational leadership theory, and group development. Explores their personal leadership styles and how to adapt based on the group's needs. Instructor guides student through implementation and reflection of leadership skills and styles throughout the course.
Prerequisite: LEAD 432 with C or better
LEAD 442, LEADERSHIP SKILLS FOR CAREER SUCCESS, 3 Credits
Focuses on the development and refinement of the following leadership skills: utilizing diversity, team building, project management, program planning models, working with difficult people, conflict management, leading change, establishing an effective network, organizational strategies, and emotional intelligence.
Available via Ecampus
LEAD 443, LEADERSHIP THROUGH CONVERSATIONS, 3 Credits
Engages students in the exploration of conversations as a component of leadership. Students will engage in topics related to developing effective conversations, listening, conversation styles, group dynamics, digital communication, meetings as conversations and interviewing skills.
Available via Ecampus
LEAD 444, LEADERSHIP MINOR CAPSTONE, 2 Credits
Capstone course for students completing the Leadership minor. Students will reflect on what they have learned through the Leadership minor and how to apply that learning in the context of their future careers.
LEAD 501, RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
LEAD 502, INDEPENDENT STUDY, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
LEAD 505, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
LEAD 506, SPECIAL PROBLEMS/SPECIAL PROJECTS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
LEAD 507, SEMINAR, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
LEAD 509, PRACTICUM, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
LEAD 510, INTERNSHIP, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
LEAD 530, FOUNDATIONS OF ADVENTURE LEADERSHIP, 3 Credits
Examines leadership concepts utilized in adventure education and provides a foundation for leadership opportunities. Presents an overview of the history, theoretical foundations and utilization of adventure leadership. Focused leadership topics include theoretical foundations of adventure leadership, learning styles in effective leadership, facilitation techniques in leadership activities, and situational leadership tactics.
LEAD 532, BACKCOUNTRY LEADERSHIP, 3 Credits
Prepares students to be leaders in outdoor settings by building the practical and logistical skills needed in the effective delivery of courses and/or trips. Covers the teaching skills and essentials for trip leaders in the wilderness, including trip planning, logistics, risk management, and group interaction in the backcountry. Focuses on leadership development and leading groups, focus on special populations, social justice, and situational leadership skills.
LEAD 533, TEACHING AND LEADING TECHNIQUES FOR OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, 3 Credits
Plans and executes an activity course for students, including class sessions and at least one outing. Emphasizes teaching and leading groups through outdoor activities at a professional level, including risk management, trip logistics, policies, response plans, evacuation skills, situational leadership theory, and group development. Explores their personal leadership styles and how to adapt based on the group's needs. Instructor guides student through implementation and reflection of leadership skills and styles throughout the course.
Prerequisite: LEAD 532 with C or better
LEAD 542, LEADERSHIP SKILLS FOR CAREER SUCCESS, 3 Credits
Focuses on the development and refinement of the following leadership skills: utilizing diversity, team building, project management, program planning models, working with difficult people, conflict management, leading change, establishing an effective network, organizational strategies, and emotional intelligence.
Available via Ecampus
LEAD 543, LEADERSHIP THROUGH CONVERSATIONS, 3 Credits
Engages students in the exploration of conversations as a component of leadership. Students will engage in topics related to developing effective conversations, listening, conversation styles, group dynamics, digital communication, meetings as conversations and interviewing skills.
Available via Ecampus
LEAD 580, LEADING AUTHENTICALLY: FOUNDATIONS OF LEADERSHIP, 3 Credits
The foundational course for students in graduate leadership coursework. Students will explore leadership theories to develop an understanding of how to be an authentic leader. Students will analyze and apply course content in relation to their own personal leadership experiences and gain perspectives and tools to influence their future.
Available via Ecampus
LEAD 581, LEADING OTHERS:ENHANCING TEAM AND ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE, 3 Credits
A foundational course for group, team, and organizational leadership. Throughout this course, you will become familiar with the necessary conditions for designing effective teams and work groups, best practices and processes needed for maximum productivity, strategies to resolve common issues in teams, and methods to evaluate team performance.
Available via Ecampus
LEAD 582, LEADING CHANGE: LEADING, MOTIVATING, AND EMPOWERING OTHERS, 3 Credits
Examines and synthesizes leadership content to form a personal and professional foundation for being remarkable. Drawing on 15 different being remarkable qualities, students will be challenged to develop and apply the skills needed for leadership success.
Available via Ecampus