Program Distinctives and Benefits

Student Learning Outcomes

Effectively articulate and assess one’s own experiential learning via the Kolb model.
Use the process of applied behavioral science research as a problem-solving tool for planning organizational change.
Demonstrate in writing an in-depth understanding of the organizational setting in which his/her research project will be conducted.
Learn and experientially understand what it is like to take on management responsibilities.
Identify and understand the fundamentals of effective oral and written interpersonal communication and business communication.
Identify and apply the most commonly used conflict management strategy in his or her organization.

Distinctives

The BSOL Program prepares graduates for leadership roles within their organizations.
This program, designed for the adult learner, emphasizes convenience, practicality, and relevance.
The program uses the student's organization as a laboratory. Professors use students' experiences as the foundation upon which theory and practice are tested.
Major theoretical concepts are integrated throughout the modules instead of being localized in individual courses.
Classes can start at anytime during the year when an 18-24 student cohort forms.
Students progress through the entire program together.
The program takes 15 months to complete and is offered in traditional and online formats:

Traditional Format

Students take one class at a time, one night per week, meeting for a four-hour session from 6-10 p.m. Each course takes five weeks to complete. There are approximately 60 class sessions and the program offers a four-term format.
Classes meet in regional centers conveniently located throughout Southern California.
Small classes ensure focused student-teacher interaction.

Online Format

Students take one class at a time. Each course takes five weeks to complete. There are approximately 60 class sessions.
Enjoy the freedom of taking classes and studying when it best fits your schedule.
The online community facilitates discussions, workshops, and case studies, via the Internet in collaboration with your classmates.
Technical support staff and online tools provide support to begin your online learning right away, even if you are not Internet-savvy.
The virtual classroom is always at your fingertips, allowing you to connect with faculty and other students as easily as checking your email.
The cutting-edge online learning environment centralizes instruction and helps students organize their studies.

Benefits

The Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership Program, both traditional and online, enhances communication, research, cognitive, managerial, and interpersonal skills. The following is a list of the competencies which can be achieved through completion of the BSOL Program.

Communication Skills

Write clearly and concisely.
Develop motivational and persuasion techniques.
Understand verbal and nonverbal symbols.
Lead discussion and focus groups.
Deliver formal presentations effectively.
Write reports and executive summaries.

Research Skills

Identify research questions.
Understand research designs and methods.
Analyze and interpret data.
Conduct a literary review.
Develop data-collection instruments.
Present and report findings.

Cognitive Skills

Develop inductive and deductive reasoning skill.
Expand analytical and critical-thinking competence.
Deepen problem-solving and decision-making acumen.

Managerial Skills

Develop leadership skills.
Develop, coach, and mentor employees.
Study and apply organizational analysis and development theories and practices.
Manage organizational change.
Manage conflict effectively.
Motivate and set goals for employees.
Enhance negotiating skills.
Manage diversity in the workplace.

Interpersonal Skills

Facilitate small groups.
Resolve conflict successfully.
Manage group effectiveness.
Hone stress-management techniques.
Maximize task-oriented functioning.
Broaden interpersonal skill development.
Lead team building efforts.

Note: This information is current for the 2008-09 academic year. For additional information, please contact the appropriate office.

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