Curriculum

Theory of Leadership I
(Autumn Quarter)

This 5 credit course investigates important concepts of leadership. What is leadership? What contributes to leadership? The emphasis is on academic research.   However, we will also be using case studies and role playing exercises to bring the lessons of this research to life.


Practice of Leadership II
(Winter Quarter)

This 5 credit course examines leadership in different environments, including large vs. small organization leadership, opinion leadership, grass roots leadership, and public vs. private leadership. It is more applied than the theory course, but still not as practically oriented as the training seminar that follows. Leaders of local, national, and global organizations and movements will participate in many of the seminars and field visits. 

Catapult Leadership Training Institute
(spring break)

The Catapult Leadership Training Institute takes place during the break between Winter and Spring quarters. Through Catapult, students sharpen their leadership skills, interact with leaders in their communities and government, and develop networks that will promote lifelong community involvement.

Civic Service
(spring quarter)

During spring quarter, students complete their intensive internship or independent study project. The primary purpose of this internship or project is to initiate a sustained relationship with in a particular civic organization or issue. This element of the curriculum is modeled after the successful Washington State Legislative Internship program, which combines an intensive internship with a seminar and reflective writing assignments. 

Electives

Students complete their academic requirements by selecting additional courses identified as relevant to the study of leadership ( e.g. Public Policy Agenda Setting, Media Communications, State and Local Government), and to a substantive issue of particular interest to the student ( e.g. State and Local Taxation, Forest Ecosystems, American Indians and the Law).