Higher Education Administration
Master of Arts in Leadership
Higher Education is changing dramatically and is requiring agile, effective, and transformative agents. When you earn a Master of Arts in Leadership with a Higher Education emphasis from Mid-America Christian University (MACU) in Oklahoma City, you’ll have the skills necessary to lead in the academic sector – and the knowledge to apply skills in systems thinking, technology strategy, and change leadership in a variety of upper-level positions in higher education institutions.
EXPLORE THE MASTER OF ARTS IN LEADERSHIP: HIGHER EDUCATION Emphasis
Become a Transformative Leader in Higher Education
MACU has offered online master’s degree programs since 2008, helping adult learners pursue their professional goals while balancing busy careers and family lives. More than just a leadership degree, this program prepares graduates to thrive as ethical servant leaders equipped to influence organizations in business, education, ministry, government, and nonprofits—with a global mindset rooted in a Christ-centered worldview.
Our graduates are not only competent in leadership theory and practice but also ready to navigate complexity, foster human growth, leverage data and technology, champion collaboration, and design future-proof strategies for a rapidly changing world.
The program focuses on collaboration, governance, and strategic decision-making, equipping graduates to navigate the complexities of higher education institutions. With a curriculum that integrates biblical principles, students learn to exercise institutional responsibility and impact society, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the challenges of higher education in a complex and global society.
MACU’s ML was listed (2023) as one of the Best Programs in the USA by Organizational Leadership Education (Wiley University Services).
MACU is accredited through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).
Lead with Faith, Vision, and Strategic Influence
This program is a flexible, career-advancing pathway for professionals seeking to sharpen their influence and expand their leadership capacity in local and global contexts. It is especially designed for:
- Organizational leaders, managers, and CEOs aspiring to strategic and transformative leadership.
- Leadership consultants, trainers, and coaches who want advanced credentials and tools to multiply their impact.
- Leaders in nonprofit, higher education, government, and ministry seeking to strengthen their voice and articulate lasting transformation.
Graduates leave prepared to lead across borders, cultures, and industries—standing alongside peers from top national programs in leadership, but with the distinctive foundation of faith, global vision, and servant leadership.
“Leadership skills rank among the most in-demand across industries: in 2023, leadership & people-management competencies were rated ‘very important’ or ‘extremely important’ in 185 occupations with projected fast growth and many openings.” – U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Program Highlights
- 100% Online – Designed for busy, working professionals around the world.
- Accelerated and Affordable – Your program is broken into:
- 30 credit hours
- 18 months
- 10 courses
- One six-week course at a time
- Areas of Emphasis – Tailor your degree in:
- Distinctive Methodology – Integrates a global context, servant leadership principles, and a biblical worldview through case studies and field experiences.
- Career Networking Opportunities
- Expert Faculty – Diverse professors and practitioners, all with doctorates in their specialty areas.
- Applied & Portfolio-Oriented – Instead of a traditional thesis, you’ll complete an Integrative Leadership Project and a Professional Portfolio that showcase your expertise to future employers.
- Personalized Attention – Small classes, engaged faculty, and meaningful peer collaboration.
- No GMAT/GRE required for entrance
- Special benefits and application of eligible service credits for veterans and active military
Careers
- Academic Coordinator
- Admissions Administrator
- Athletic Director
- Bursar
- Career Services Advisor
- Educational Leader / Higher Ed Administrator
- Educational Leadership Trainer, Consultant, and Coach
- Leadership Program Administrator
- Managerial Positions
- Program Director
- Registrar
- Student Services Dean
THE PLACE TO BE
At Mid-America Christian University, leadership is more than a position—it’s a calling. Nestled in Oklahoma City, but connected globally through the Thomas School of Global Leadership, MACU offers a Christ-centered education with international reach.
Here, you’ll experience:
- A community where purpose and passion intersect.
- Innovative programs that integrate biblical worldview with global leadership practice.
- Small class sizes, personalized mentoring, and a global network of leaders shaping transformation worldwide.
Whether you study online or visit our welcoming campus, MACU is the place to launch a leadership journey that extends far beyond your workplace—into your community, your nation, and the world.
Meet our Leadership Faculty
Dr. LeAnn Brown
Chair, Thomas School of Global Leadership
Dr. Jesus Sampedro
Program Director & Professor, Thomas School of Global Leadership
Ready to Get Started?
Ready to take the next step toward your future at MACU? Start your journey today by applying online or scheduling a campus visit to experience our welcoming community firsthand. Whether you’re exploring programs or ready to enroll, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Your path to purpose starts now!