Chapter 7: Distinctive Characteristics in Interdisciplinary academic Leadership Programs: A Multi-Program Case Study Analysis

An interdisciplinary approach has been widely employed in academic leadership programs to create leadership learning opportunities in higher education. This chapter highlights three academic leadership programs that include: North Central College’s minor in ethical leadership in the leadership, ethics, and values program; Florida State University’s undergraduate certificate in leadership studies; and Kansas State University’s leadership studies minor, as case studies to explore distinctive characteristics in interdisciplinary leadership programs. Through reviewing these programs’ website information and communicating with program contacts, this chapter highlights distinguishing program characteristics: intentionally designed programs, authentic leadership learning environments, application of knowledge, skills, and values, meaning making through reflection, and continuous program improvement. Together, these case study analyses offer an introductory understanding of distinctive characteristics in interdisciplinary academic leadership programs and will assist in supporting leadership learning opportunities in higher education from an interdisciplinary framework.