Become a visionary, values-driven Christian leader Leadership (M.A.)

Leaders are made, not born. Why Study Leadership at Wheaton?

Leaders are made, not born. Jesus taught and developed a ragtag group of Galileans to be the change-makers and leaders in His Kingdom. The last half-century’s research provides overwhelming evidence that effective leaders have a particular mindset, behaviors, and orientation toward others that can be cultivated.

Our unique Christian leadership program combines cutting-edge research with deep biblical engagement to elevate the God-given leadership potential in you. When you graduate, you'll be ready to:

• Fruitfully guide organizational strategy and manage change
• Develop themselves and diversify others
• Articulate and demonstrate the relationship of Christian mission and values with personal vocation
• Engage critically with leadership theory and practice

Outdoor Ministry Track

Unique to Wheaton and building off our rich history of leadership education programming and resources at HoneyRock, our M.A. in Leadership offers a track in outdoor ministry. This option is ideal for those already leading experiential programs in colleges, churches, and camps globally who desire to grow in their leadership and practice. This degree is also fitting for professionals in other vocations who want to transition into leadership positions in ministry with youth and emerging adults.

Student Voices

"The M.A. in Leadership from Wheaton College has been an integral step towards my future ministry plans and objectives. After attending the Mosaix conference and learning about the growth and impact of the multi-ethnic church movement, I was eager to learn more. I was directed to Wheaton College as the "industry" source to receive training and credentials in ministry leadership. Engaging in class work and discussions with fellow learners from around the world has fired my imagination and my passion for the Kingdom.”   – Allan Wiltshire, Director of Traditional Worship at Church on the Hill

“As a ministry leader, I've been amazed how my classes have aligned with ministry situations in which I can immediately apply biblical principles and praxis in 'real time'. The opportunity to join together with other leaders from around the world, to listen and learn from one another in a variety of contexts, has been a valuable learning experience. I highly recommend the LEAD program - you won't regret the investment." – Sharon Geiger, Assistant General Manager at Dallas radio station KCBI 

Our Faculty Compassionate and Intelligent Educators

Learn from researchers and experienced marketplace leaders about communication, team leadership, financial, marketing, and strategic management skills. Our faculty passionately integrate biblical leadership principles with evidence-based leadership research and practical skill development.

We are public Christians, cultivating our minds, hearts, and hands to be aligned by Christ for His Kingdom. We humbly seek to understand the whole counsel of God in the Word regarding leadership essentials that deal with issues such as teamwork, authority, motivation, security, finances, conflict, and diversity.