LSS 2500 COLLEGIATE LEADERSHIP COMPETITION (3)
This is an experiential, competency-based course designed to help students become more aware of a wide range of communication and leadership concepts. It builds skills around ethical decision making, problem solving, negotiation, conflict management, and presentation skills. Six students will be chosen each year to represent Methodist University at a regional competition hosted by the national CLC organization.
Prerequisite: none
Offered: spring


LSS 2850, 4850 SPECIAL TOPICS IN LEADERSHIP (3)
When warranted, instructors offer this course to examine topics not covered by normal course offerings. Students engage in discussions, readings, research, practical exercises, and writing, as required. Topics vary and are announced in advance.
Prerequisites: none
Offered: as needed


LSS 3000 PRINCIPLES OF LEADERSHIP (3)
Examines the keys to effective leadership in both personal and interpersonal contexts. Uses group exercises, case analysis, role-playing, lecture, multimedia methods, and out-of-class research. Students develop practical skills in trust building, goal setting, time management, team building, communication, and group process. Students complete the Franklin Covey “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” curriculum and receive certificates widely respected throughout corporate America. Emphasizes ethical leadership, personal responsibility, and community service. Provides significant benefits for all career fields, including business, government, and the non-profit sector. This course fulfills three credits of the Business Administration requirement for nine credits of the 3000/4000-level electives.
Prerequisite: none
Offered: fall, spring, and summer


LSS 3250 THEORIES AND TECHNIQUES OF LEADERSHIP (3)
Examines theories and models of leadership and their practical application in different organizations and settings. The course addresses the structure of organizations and the styles of leadership effective in different situations. Students learn practical skills such as group process, problem solving, active listening, and effective presentation techniques. Designed to provide leadership practice and confidence.
Prerequisite: none
Cross-listed with BUS 3250 and JUS 3250
Offered: spring


LSS 3400 ISSUES IN CONTEMPORARY LEADERSHIP (3)
Explores the role of leadership in current political, economic, and social issues by using various approaches, including fiction, film, discussion, and case studies. Examines well-known leaders, past and present: the good, the bad, and the ugly. Develops leadership potential through practical, skills-building exercises in decision making, project planning, and communication.
Prerequisite: none
Offered: fall


LSS 3500 YOUTH MINISTRY LEADERSHIP (3)
The course examines various models and approaches to youth ministry. Students discuss the spirit and philosophy of youth work as well as specific practices and techniques. Program development will be emphasized, to include needs assessment, mission and goal setting, staffing, risk management, promotion, and evaluation. Other topics will deal with adolescent faith formation, today’s youth culture, religious identity, and conflict resolution. Students currently involved in youth ministry will benefit most from this course, although that is not a requirement.
Prerequisite: none
Offered: fall


LSS 3750 FUTURE-ORIENTED LEADERSHIP (3)

A study of the leadership styles, abilities, and tools necessary to anticipate future trends and strategies to maximize benefits while minimizing threats. Futuring techniques to be discussed include Environmental Scanning, Delphi Technique, Brainstorming, Historical Perspective, Scenarios, and Trend Analysis. Emphasis will be placed on visionary leadership, transformational leadership, and paradigm pioneering.
Prerequisite: none
Cross-listed with JUS 3750
Offered: as needed


LSS 4600 CHURCH LEADERSHIP (3)
This course examines the keys to effective leadership within the context of established churches, mission organizations, para- church ministries, camps, youth ministries, and other ministries. Topics include church government and politics, diversity in theology and worship, and spiritual formation. Students develop practical skills in church related program planning and administration. Age-level specific best practices are incorporated throughout the term. The course emphasizes ethical leadership, personal responsibility, and community service.
Prerequisite: none
Offered: spring


LSS 4700, 4710 SENIOR INTERNSHIP (3-6)
Students intern in a government agency, nonprofit organization, or business. Students pursuing the Church Leadership Minor must intern in a church or another type of ministry approved by the Program Director. This course includes journal writing, readings, and a minimum of 100 contact hours with the organization (for 3 hours of credits). LSS 4710 can be taken alternatively for a full-time internship approved by the Program Director. The internship should be done in the senior year. Credits cannot be received for both LSS 4700 and 4710.
Prerequisites: LSS 3000 for students pursuing the Leadership Studies Minor; and LSS 3000 and LSS 4600 for students pursuing the Church Leadership Minor. Prerequisites can be waived with the approval of the Program Director.
Offered: fall, spring, and summer


LSS 4800 PRACTICUM IN CROSS-CULTURAL MINISTRY (1)
A practicum experience involving preparation, reflection, and work associated with participating in an MU approved cross- cultural ministry project of at least three days in duration. The practicum will enhance the student’s preparation for and participation in mission experiences and will assist him/her in assessing those experiences 1credit This course may be repeated for up to three hours of credits.
Prerequisites: Instructor permission is required.
Offered: as needed