Master of Arts in Religious Leadership and Management
September 22, 2026 2026-09-22 10:35Master of Arts in Religious Leadership and Management
An advanced graduate program designed to prepare professionals for effective leadership, administration, and organizational management within religious, nonprofit, and community-based institutions. The program integrates religious studies, leadership theory, organizational management, strategic planning, ethics, community engagement, and administrative practices.
Master of Arts in Religious Leadership and Management
US$ 5,940
36 Credit Hours
18 Months
9–12 Months
3 Credit Hours
US$ 5,940
Lead with Purpose in Religious and Nonprofit Organizations
Integrate religious studies, leadership theory, organizational management, strategic planning, ethics, community engagement, and administrative practices for values-based leadership.
The Master of Arts in Religious Leadership and Management is an advanced graduate program designed to prepare professionals for effective leadership, administration, and organizational management within religious, nonprofit, and community-based institutions. The program integrates religious studies, leadership theory, organizational management, strategic planning, ethics, community engagement, and administrative practices.
Students examine leadership models, organizational development, financial management, governance structures, conflict resolution, communication strategies, program development, and the role of religious institutions in contemporary society. The curriculum emphasizes ethical leadership, organizational effectiveness, strategic decision-making, community service, and the responsible management of faith-based and nonprofit organizations.
Graduates develop advanced competencies in religious leadership, organizational administration, strategic planning, team development, communication, and community engagement, preparing them for careers in religious organizations, nonprofit institutions, educational ministries, community programs, humanitarian organizations, and leadership roles requiring values-based management skills.
Master of Arts in Religious Leadership and Management
18 Months — Traditional Learning Track
9–12 Months — Fast-Track Learning Program
3 Credit Hours per Course
US$ 5,940
Exclusive of applicable University administrative fees
Required Courses
The Master of Arts in Religious Leadership and Management requires 36 total credits.
| Course No. | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| RLM 6000 | Foundations of Religious Leadership and Management | 3 |
| RLM 6010 | Leadership Theory and Organizational Development | 3 |
| RLM 6020 | Religious Institutions and Community Engagement | 3 |
| RLM 6030 | Strategic Planning for Religious Organizations | 3 |
| RLM 6040 | Ethics, Governance, and Accountability | 3 |
| RLM 6050 | Financial Management and Resource Stewardship | 3 |
| RLM 6060 | Communication, Conflict Resolution, and Team Leadership | 3 |
| RLM 6070 | Program Development and Community Outreach | 3 |
| RLM 6080 | Research Methods in Religious Leadership and Management | 3 |
| RLM 6090 | Contemporary Challenges in Religious Organizations | 3 |
| RLM 6100 | Master's Thesis | 6 |
| Total Credits | 36 | |
Course Descriptions
Select a course to view its description.
RLM 6000 – Foundations of Religious Leadership and Management
Introduces the principles, history, and practices of religious leadership and organizational management. Students examine leadership responsibilities, institutional structures, and the role of religious organizations in society.
RLM 6010 – Leadership Theory and Organizational Development
Explores leadership theories, organizational behavior, team development, institutional growth, and strategies for creating effective and sustainable organizations.
RLM 6020 – Religious Institutions and Community Engagement
Examines the role of religious institutions in community development, social service, public engagement, and building meaningful relationships with diverse communities.
RLM 6030 – Strategic Planning for Religious Organizations
Focuses on strategic planning, mission development, organizational assessment, goal setting, and methods for improving institutional effectiveness.
RLM 6040 – Ethics, Governance, and Accountability
Explores ethical leadership, governance models, transparency, accountability systems, and responsible decision-making within religious and nonprofit organizations.
RLM 6050 – Financial Management and Resource Stewardship
Examines budgeting, financial planning, fundraising strategies, resource management, and stewardship principles for religious and nonprofit institutions.
RLM 6060 – Communication, Conflict Resolution, and Team Leadership
Explores organizational communication, interpersonal relationships, conflict management, negotiation, and leadership approaches for building collaborative teams.
RLM 6070 – Program Development and Community Outreach
Examines the design, implementation, and evaluation of religious and community programs. Students explore outreach strategies and methods for creating meaningful social impact.
RLM 6080 – Research Methods in Religious Leadership and Management
Develops research skills related to leadership and organizational studies, including research design, program evaluation, qualitative methods, and applied research practices.
RLM 6090 – Contemporary Challenges in Religious Organizations
Examines current challenges facing religious organizations, including cultural change, technology, globalization, diversity, leadership transitions, and institutional adaptation.
RLM 6100 – Master's Thesis
Students complete an original research thesis addressing a significant issue in religious leadership and management, including organizational development, community engagement, governance, leadership effectiveness, or institutional transformation. Under faculty supervision, students conduct research, analyze leadership challenges, develop solutions, and contribute knowledge to the field.
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for advanced leadership, administrative, organizational, and community-focused roles.
Employment Sectors
Graduates may pursue employment in religious organizations, faith-based organizations, nonprofit organizations, community development agencies, humanitarian organizations, educational institutions, religious schools and ministries, social service organizations, charitable foundations, community outreach programs, international development organizations, leadership training organizations, public service organizations, cultural and community institutions, research centers, advocacy organizations, professional development organizations, and social impact organizations.
Ready to Lead in Religious and Nonprofit Organizations?
Explore the Master of Arts in Religious Leadership and Management and take the next step toward effective, ethical, and values-based leadership in religious, nonprofit, and community institutions.
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