Master of Arts in Global Leadership and Learning (GLL)

Master of arts

Program overview

This program is offered in-person with some hybrid coursework.

This 30 credit program in the Department of Educational Leadership, Research and Technology provides students with the opportunity to examine leadership and organizational learning within a global context. As the practice of global leadership requires an increasingly complex set of skills, as compared to leadership in a domestic context, this graduate program will equip students with critical strategies necessary for inclusive global leadership in a variety of educational and organizational learning environments.

Applications are accepted three times per year, with the following priority deadlines indicated below:

• June 1 for Fall admission
• November 1 for Spring admission
• April 1 for Summer admission (domestic students only)

Applications received after the priority deadlines listed above may be reviewed and processed on a space available basis and at the discretion of the faculty program director.

For more admissions information, view the admissions requirements.

Why global leadership and learning at Western Michigan University?

Have you always been interested in learning about the educational systems in place around the world? Are you interested in learning why some countries outperform others in the educational field? A masters in Global Leadership and Learning will give you the ability to learn about different educational systems around the world and make an impact as a global education leader. You will have the chance to examine data on how and why some educational organizations perform better than others to implement meaningful changes in a variety of educational, learning, and governmental organizations. Be prepared to explore various international education practices, worldviews and cultures to gain a better understanding of global leadership theory and practice. You will study different research methods, organizational theories, and leadership styles while exploring international education leadership and policy in action.

Who should apply?

The concentration is suitable for students who serve in or aspire to leadership positions within educational organizations with a global dimension; for students who desire a graduate degree in educational leadership and who do not work in traditional educational settings in the U.S., such as K-12 schools or universities; and for the growing number of international students seeking to study Educational Leadership and who want to focus their studies on issues of education, leadership and development in their home countries.

Please Note: This program does not satisfy State of Michigan requirements for K-12 Principal Certification nor Central Office Endorsement.

Career opportunities

There are a wide range of careers you can enter after earning this degree. This includes teaching, policy and evaluation, administration, and research roles. Graduates have the ability to work for private and public schools, governmental institutions, businesses, and different foundations. Most jobs will require a master's degree in international education and time spent abroad working in education. Salaries will vary depending on what area of the world you find work in.

Higher Education Institutions:

• Instructor of International Education (additional PhD study may be required)
• International Admissions/Immigration Advisor
• International Student Activities Coordinator
• Study Abroad Specialist

Non-Profit Organizations:

• International Education Development Specialist
• International Non-Profit Administrator
• Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Administrator

Public Sector Employment:

• Foreign Service Officer (U.S. Department of State)
• Government Employment - Ministry/Department of Education Professional
• International Policy and Evaluation Specialist

Employer tuition reimbursement

WMU employees may be eligible for the university's tuition discount program, administered by Human Resources, to assist in completing courses for the program. For more information on WMU's employee tuition discount program and/or to apply for this program, please contact Human Resources.

Program learning outcomes

• Students will acquire knowledge of other countries and cultures, using the education system as a means of analyzing, interpreting and translating knowledge across cultures.
• Utilize theory to support applications of leadership practice within complex international and multinational contexts.
• Develop skills necessary to lead diverse, global teams in various educational, non-profit and cultural agencies.
• Recognize contemporary and future trends in the field of global education.

Program course requirements

For information about required courses, visit our course requirements page.

Resources

• Association of International Educators (NAFSA)
• Institute of International Education (IIE)
• Michigan Association of International Educators (MAIE)
• NASPA International Education Knowledge Community (IEKC)
• U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC)
• World Education Research Association (WERA)

Cost & Funding

• Tuition and fees
• Cost of attendance
• Scholarships
• Assistantships
• Grants
• Loans
• Employer-paid tuition

Helpful links

• College of Education and Human Development
• International Admissions and Services
• Graduate College
• Office of Military and Veterans Affairs
• Visit Campus

Faculty 

Dr. Eric Archer, PhD, CCLS