- Date published
Missouri State supervisors can now earn graduate credit through the university's established leadership development program.
Missouri State University supervisors have a new opportunity to turn professional development into academic credit. Through MSU Lead, faculty, staff and administrators with supervisory responsibilities can now earn graduate credit while developing skills they use every day.
Offered by Missouri State’s human resources’ organizational and talent development office in partnership with Missouri SBDC at Missouri State and efactory, MSU Lead is a nine-session program designed to strengthen leadership skills among supervisors at all levels of the university.
The program combines expert instruction, interactive discussions, and practical exercises focused on communication, performance management, decision-making, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and other essential leadership skills.
Now in its 14th cohort, MSU Lead reflects the university’s ongoing investment in developing effective supervisors and strengthening leadership across campus.
“MSU Lead reflects our commitment to providing meaningful professional development opportunities for supervisors at every level,” said [Debbie or Scot, title]. “By investing in our employees, we’re helping them build the skills and confidence to lead their teams effectively and contribute to the university’s success.”
Recognizing the value of professional development
For years, MSU Lead has provided university supervisors with training to help them navigate workplace challenges and grow as leaders. Previously offered only as noncredit professional development, the program now creates an opportunity for employees to receive academic recognition for their time and effort.
“We’ve been advocating for more ways to connect professional development with academic credit,” said Chrystal Irons, director of business support and training at Missouri State’s efactory and director of the Missouri SBDC at Missouri State. “Employees gain valuable knowledge and skills through programs like MSU Lead, and it’s exciting to see that learning recognized through graduate credit while opening doors for continued education and career growth.”
Supporting the university's strategic vision
The opportunity to earn graduate credit through MSU Lead aligns with Missouri State’s Igniting Opportunity strategic plan, which emphasizes expanding professional development, alternative credentials and lifelong learning opportunities. The plan calls for stronger connections between formal education and ongoing professional growth through certificates, cohort programs, and other flexible learning pathways.
“This is really about breaking down the wall between professional development and academic learning,” said Dr. Jason DeBode, head of Missouri State’s management department. “If someone is putting in the work to become a better leader, there’s value in recognizing that work. I am happy to help bring this program to light as an alternative pathway for our Mo State employees to gain credit.”
The collaboration demonstrates how Missouri State can leverage its academic expertise and professional training programs to create new opportunities for learners.
Building on this model, efactory and Missouri SBDC at Missouri State look forward to exploring similar opportunities to connect noncredit professional development with academic credit for businesses and organizations across the region. These efforts could expand access to lifelong learning while helping employers invest in the growth and development of their workforce.