Integrating the Gospel with Training Leaders for Life

Against the backdrop of a world desperate for leaders with integrity, Trinity International University launches its new Master of Arts in Leadership program.

Dr. Antony Beckham, Trinity’s assistant professor of business, thinks that “we have a voice to contribute to the evangelical conversation, to the broader Christian conversation, and to society at large.” Christianity is both for salvation and for the rest of life. TIU is uniquely positioned to deliver solid, Christian leadership education that reaches out into every sphere of the world. “Why not exercise our prophetic voice,” Beckham wonders aloud, “instead of simply going along with the world?”

No matter what level in an organization people work, their jobs require them to be proficient at “soft skills,” such as working with people and being self directed. Employers expect universities to prepare graduates with such skills, and TIU’s new MA in Leadership prepares students to meet this expectation.

What’s more, this preparation weaves in at every turn a biblical perspective. “Trinity produces alumni who are faithful and effective leaders that engage the church, academy, and society in the name of Christ,” notes TIU President Craig Williford. “The new MA in Leadership gives Trinity a highly identifiable means to continue to accomplish this outcome.”

Why not exercise our prophetic voice instead of simply going along with the world?

The skills emphasized in Leadership studies—critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication—prepare TIU students to make a redemptive difference in today’s world. Thus the goals of a Leadership program and of Christian higher education align, making the study of leadership an ideal fit for TIU.

Trinity Graduate School and Trinity College will also offer a dual Bachelor of Arts/Master of Arts Degree that pairs an MA in Leadership with an undergraduate degree in any major. In this program, an undergraduate student may earn a graduate degree within a year of completing their bachelors.

The MA in Leadership is designed to fit conveniently into the schedules of working adults. Students attend a summer intensive, and other courses are available during the academic year one evening a week.

“This is an authentically interdisciplinary program,” Beckham says, precisely because each class will follow “what’s needed today—a better model” of facilitation rather than constant lecturing, and will consist of students from all walks of life. What this will produce “is a holistic experience for students who can think across the wide range of liberal arts,” thereby becoming more robust and influential leaders in their chosen fields.

Leadership, not management. That’s what we’re aiming to teach.

With an emphasis on practical application, students seek out mentors that engage them as they work through putting theory into practice, providing insight and guidance on their class projects. “Leadership, not management,” Dr. Beckham quips. “That’s what we’re aiming to teach.” Adds President Williford: “I know God will use graduates from this program in a variety of disciplines to increase his kingdom.”