The Leadership Experience

Info for Current Leadership Experience Students is HERE

What is it?
The Leadership Experience provides students with a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience that focuses on leadership theory, practice, and development. Participants will have opportunities to learn about leadership foundational theories and their day-to-day application, explore social responsibility and citizenship, and develop a personal leadership philosophy and vision for continued development as a leader. Successful completion of the program will result in an official notation on your Southern Miss transcript and the receipt of a certificate signed by the University president and provost.

Who should enroll in this program?
The Leadership Experience is open to all USM students with a desire to further develop and hone their leadership skills. Special scholarships or memberships are not required.

Why should I enroll in this program?
The Leadership Experience is a great opportunity for you to enhance your existing leadership skills. You will gain critical leadership and personal development skills that will help you excel personally and professionally, both inside and outside of the classroom. At the end of the program, you'll have professional and challenging experiences that you can share with potential employers or graduate schools.

What is required to get the certificate?

• IDS 181: Introduction to Leadership  (3 credits). This course reviews prevailing leadership theories and examines opportunities for how they may be put into practice. You can enroll in IDS 181 without signing up for the certificate. 
• IDS 450: Practicum in Leadership Development (3 credits). Students will develop and execute a leadership project using skills and concepts learned in IDS 181. 
• Three electives from a list of over 20 courses, many of which are GEC courses
• Two independent leadership activities with reflective essays

How do I sign up?
Students wishing to begin the certificate program or those who want to see what it is all about should enroll in IDS 181 for the fall semester. If you have more questions, email leadershipFREEMississippi.