College of Leadership and Public Service

Steve Joiner, Dean, College of Leadership and Public Service
Laura Encalade, Executive Director of the School of Public Policy
Mark White, Director, Community and Government Outreach

Core Faculty

Craig Bledsoe, Professor of Political Science and Public Policy
Scott Bledsoe, Assistant Professor of Political Science and Public Policy
Laura Encalade, Assistant Professor of Public Policy
Steve Joiner, Randy and Rhonda Lowry Endowed Professor of Conflict Management
Hope Nordstrom, Associate Professor of Strategic Leadership
Bill Johnson, Professor of Leadership and Practice
Virginia Ezell Briley, Assistant Professor of Public and Nonprofit Management

The Master of Arts in Leadership and Public Service academic program consists of 30 hours of designated course work. It will provide academic programming to students interested in working in Public Service by addressing two distinct needs:

1. Graduate education in Public Service and Public Policy (including theoretical foundations and application of this theory),

2. Exposure to the workings of government and nonprofit entities engaged in public service by providing extensive internship, project and networking opportunities.

The Master of Public Administration academic program consists of 36 hours of designated course work. Through a theory-to-practice curriculum, MPA students will learn how to analyze policy and manage government programs through innovative and practical program measures, engaged faculty, and community partnerships. In the MPA program, students will learn about leading organizations, cross-sector collaboration, financial management, policy analysis, data analysis, and human resources.

Admission Policies and Procedures

Background courses in the social sciences, education, law, business, and community change, as well as prior relevant work experience, are desirable. In addition to meeting all Lipscomb University requirements for admission, an applicant to the M.A. or M.P.A. program must submit the following:

1. Application Form. Each applicant must complete an application form. The application form is available at lipscomb.edu/admissions/ graduate then click on “Apply by Program” to complete the on-line application.
2. Application Fee. Each application should be accompanied by a $50 nonrefundable application fee.
3. Standardized examination score or writing sample. Students must either submit the scores of a standardized examination (see below for accepted examinations) or a writing sample. Standardized examination score: Students may submit the scores of a standardized examination. Scores from the Graduate Record Examination are preferred for students seeking their first graduate course work. (For more information on the GRE, visit www.ets.org and click on GRE). However, scores for the Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT), MCAT, MAT or LSAT will be accepted as substitutes for the GRE requirement. Writing sample: In lieu of a standardized test score, applicants may submit a writing sample. The writing sample should demonstrate clarity of thinking, reasoning ability, logic, and strong writing and communication skills. The sample should be an academic or professional document that has been previously written and perhaps evaluated in an academic or professional setting. Previously published work may also be considered. The sample should not be something prepared for the sole purpose of admission to the program.
4. References. Two letters of reference are required as follows: one from a college or university administrator or professor, one from a professional supervisor/employer, or one from a personal reference with knowledge of your ability to satisfactorily perform at the graduate level.
5. Official Transcript(s). Each applicant must submit an official transcript, showing degree conferral when appropriate, from all schools attended.
6. Health Form. Each applicant must submit a completed health form signed by a health care provider. (To print a copy of the health form, visit www.lipscomb.edu/healthcenter/forms.)
7. FERPA: The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act affords students certain rights of access to educational records; even if you are independent of your parents, you must submit this form prior to enrollment.
8. Resume. A resume detailing academic, personal and professional experiences and achievements.
9. Goals Statement. A 750-1000 word expanded goals statement concerning the applicant’s interest in and application of the program’s curriculum to expected career progression is required.
10. TOEFL. The Test of English as a Foreign Language is required for international students. (See section titled International Students for more information.)

All application items should be submitted to the LPS office no later than 30 days before the beginning of the semester or term in which the student plans to enroll. Forms should be mailed to: School of Public Policy, Lipscomb University, Ezell Room 359, One University Park Drive, Nashville TN 37204-3951.

Transfer of Courses

Graduate credit hours earned at another accredited institution may be transferred toward the LPS degree requirement upon request. A maximum of six hours may be counted toward the master’s degree. The director or appropriate faculty member of the graduate program will evaluate the course(s) being proposed for transfer and make a determination of suitability. No course with a grade below a “B” will be considered for transfer.

Documentation

Students are required to provide satisfactory documentation of personal identification for off-site learning experiences required in many programs of graduate study at Lipscomb University. Failure to provide proper credentials will result in failure to complete the desired course of study. For complete policy, see section entitled Required Documentation for Off-Site Learning Experiences in the opening section of this catalog. Student Classifications Students are admitted to graduate courses in one of five categories:

1. Graduate Student: one who has satisfied all admissions requirements. A student with an incomplete admission file will be accepted to the program at the discretion of the program director but will be placed on an academic hold which will prevent registration for the following semester. Once the proper admissions documents have been received, the hold will be removed and the student will be allowed to register for the following semester.
2. Conditionally Admitted Student: one who has been admitted conditionally, at the discretion of the program director, without satisfying all admission requirements. Students admitted with the following criteria may be required to complete a minimum of nine hours of graduate work with a grade of “B” or above before the conditional admission is removed.
a. From an unaccredited school or with a substandard GPA or GRE/MAT score.
b. A transfer student with a graduate GPA between 2.50 and 2.99. The transfer student must be in good standing at the previous institution attended.
c. As a student who has not completed a bachelor’s degree program. The transfer student must be in good standing at the previous institution attended.
3. Non-Degree Student: one who has satisfied admission requirements (including GRE or other standardized exam) but does not intend to earn a graduate degree. Such students may take up to 15 semester hours for graduate credit which may be applied toward a certificate. Those hours may be applied toward a master’s degree if the student makes a grade of “B” or better in the courses taken for credit and is formally admitted to a graduate program as a degree-seeking student.
4. Visiting Student: one who is currently enrolled as a student in good standing at the post-bachelor’s level at another graduate school, wishes to take courses at Lipscomb and desires to have transcript evidence of course work done at Lipscomb provided for the school of primary enrollment.
5. Probationary Student: one who has been readmitted to a graduate program following academic suspension from the program.

Admission to a program does not imply admission to candidacy for the master’s degree. Only those students who meet the requirements for “graduate student” described above are eligible for candidacy.

Students who are denied admission may request from the LPS director an action plan to help them identify specific areas where improvement is needed. Students who are denied admission may reapply for admission after completing the action as described by the LPS director.

Student Classifications

Students are admitted to graduate courses in one of five categories:

2. Conditionally Admitted Student: one who has been admitted conditionally, at the discretion of the program director, without satisfying all admission requirements. Students admitted with the following criteria may be required to complete a minimum of nine hours of graduate work with a grade of “B” or above before the conditional admission is removed.

a. From an unaccredited school or with a substandard GPA or GRE/MAT score.

b. A transfer student with a graduate GPA between 2.50 and 2.99. The transfer student must be in good standing at the previous institution attended.

c. As a student who has not completed a bachelor’s degree program. The transfer student must be in good standing at the previous institution attended.

3. Non-Degree Student: one who has satisfied admission requirements (including GRE or other standardized exam) but does not intend to earn a graduate degree. Such students may take up to 15 semester hours for graduate credit which may be applied toward a certificate. Those hours may be applied toward a master’s degree if the student makes a grade of “B” or better in the courses taken for credit and is formally admitted to a graduate program as a degree-seeking student.

4. Visiting Student: one who is currently enrolled as a student in good standing at the post-bachelor’s level at another graduate school, wishes to take courses at Lipscomb and desires to have transcript evidence of course work done at Lipscomb provided for the school of primary enrollment.

5. Probationary Student: one who has been readmitted to a graduate program following academic suspension from the program.

Academic Policies

Course Load

A student enrolled for six hours per semester is considered a full-time student. A student enrolled for less than six hours is considered a part-time student. No student will be permitted to enroll for more than 12 hours per semester without special approval from the director of the graduate program.

Academic Standing

See graduate academic standing policy.

Degree Completion Requirements

Residency

No period of formal residency is required.

Statute of Limitations

All requirements for the LPS master’s degrees must be completed within a five-year period from the time of initial matriculation.

Candidacy

Admission to a program does not imply admission to candidacy for the master’s degree. During the course of pursuing the LPS master’s degree, the student must be admitted to “candidacy.” For admission to candidacy the student must satisfy the following:

1. Complete all required undergraduate deficiencies if admitted on condition.

2. Complete at least nine hours of graduate work.

3. Maintain a 3.00 GPA on all courses taken toward the requirements for the degree with no incomplete grades.

4. File an “application for candidacy” degree plan form with the graduate program office. This plan must meet all requirements and is approved by the director of the graduate program.

After admission to candidacy and approval of the degree plan, any changes in the degree plan must be approved by the director of the graduate program. The application for candidacy must be filed before the beginning of the student’s last course in the program. No student will be allowed to graduate in the same semester in which the application for candidacy is filed without permission granted in writing by the program director.

Minimum Credits

The Master of Arts in Leadership and Public Service requires 30 hours, exclusive of hours accumulated to satisfy academic deficiencies.

The Master of Public Administration requires 36 hours, exclusive of hours accumulated to satisfy academic deficiencies.

Minimum GPA

The minimum cumulative grade point average for master’s course work is 3.00. The minimum cumulative GPA for the LPS certificate is 2.5 for all graduate courses taken for graduate credit while pursuing the certificate. No grade below a “C” is acceptable. Such grades will not apply toward degree completion.

Graduation

Students who do not file their intent to graduate form in the Registrar’s Office by the announced application deadline may be delayed in graduating. To be eligible to graduate, all coursework required for the degree must be completed prior to the degree conferral date.

Graduate students receiving degrees are hooded during the May and December commencement exercises.

Appeals

Any exceptions to the above stated requirements would require approval by the Associate Provost for Research and Graduate Studies in collaboration with the Dean of the College and the Program Director.

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees for 2025-26

Tuition
Tuition per credit hour	$1,091
Tuition to audit	50% of tuition

Fees
Application fee	$50
Graduation fee	$250
Technology fee (per semester)	$100
Returned payment fee	$30
Payment plan enrollment fee (per semester)	$60

*Program Trip Fee (see program information for details)*

Institute of Conflict Management

Conflict Management, Master of Arts, (M.A.)
Conflict Management, Certificate in Graduate Studies

Steve Joiner, Executive Director; Dean, College of Leadership and Public Service
Kimberly McCall, Associate Dean, College of Leadership and Public Service

Core Faculty

Tracy Allen, Associate Professor of Conflict Management
Bill Johnson, Professor of Leadership and Practice
Steve Joiner, Randy and Rhonda Lowry Endowed Professor of Conflict Management
Kimberly McCall, Associate Professor of Law, Justice and Society
Elizabeth McMillan, Assistant Professor of Conflict Management
Jeff Thompson, Adjunct Professor of Conflict Management

In addition to the ICM core faculty, distinguished visiting professors with expertise in conflict management will teach selected classes.

Lipscomb University’s Institute for Conflict Management provides academic and business specific resources to equip students, organizations and professionals with skills to minimize the costs of unresolved conflict. A nationally recognized degree taught by subject matter experts and scholars from around the country, ICM provides degrees, certificates, seminars and research dedicated to the advancement of conflict management disciplines.

ICM’s master’s degree, certificate, research and conference offerings impact most areas of commerce and education, model evolving best practices in conflict management and instruct participants in more cost effective and efficient solutions for unresolved conflict. ICM target markets include the following:

Master’s degree candidates in Bible, ministry, business, education, human resources, health sciences, sustainability and psychology seeking specialized training in conflict
Master’s degree candidates in conflict management.
Non-degree students seeking certification in conflict management skills.
Businesses and professionals seeking advanced dialogue and study concerning the growing professional discipline of conflict management.
Health care companies, executives and professionals dedicated to improving the quality and cost effectiveness of health care delivery through the development of advanced systems of conflict management specific to the industry.

The Certificate in Conflict Management will be awarded after completing 15 hours of designated course work focusing on negotiation, mediation and dispute resolution in various settings as well as a clinical internship or elective course. This program will be open to students, professionals and other interested parties in the community who seek training and/or certification in dispute resolution. The certificate program is also available for students enrolled in other graduate programs on campus.

The Master of Arts in Conflict Management will be awarded after completing 30 hours of designated course work (15 hours are included in the certificate curriculum).

In addition to the academic curriculum, ICM also offers programs featuring national leaders and experts in dispute resolution and conflict management.

Calendar

The ICM course schedule is available on the web or by contacting ICM at icm@lipscomb.edu.

ICM Academic Programs

The institute offers two academic program choices:

Conflict Management, Certificate in Graduate Studies . This academic program consists of 15 hours of designated course work. Students who desire introductory instruction and skill development in negotiation, communication and the culture of conflict management will benefit from the certificate program. The certificate will enhance the career of individuals whose employment requires some degree of conflict management skills.
Conflict Management, Master of Arts, (M.A.). This academic program consists of 30 hours of designated course work (15 hours are included in the certificate program). Students who seek advanced instruction and skill development in cross-cultural, business specific and high level professional development will want to seek the M.A. in conflict management. The master’s degree will equip students to offer professional level expertise in conflict management and dispute resolution.
1. Emphasis in Organizational Settings
  - This 15-hour track within the Master’s Program allows the student to focus on intra- and inter-organizational conflict, its prevention, its management, and its resolution. Students are taught by leading practitioners of conflict management and organizational conflict management.
2. Emphasis in Healthcare Settings
  - This 15-hour track within the Master’s Program allows the student to focus on conflict in the Healthcare field, its prevention, its management, and its resolution. Students are taught by leading practitioners of conflict management and preeminent healthcare executives.

Admission Policies and Procedures

Students may enroll on a full-time or part-time basis, and entry into the program is available during fall, spring, and summer semesters. An undergraduate degree is required.

In addition to meeting all Lipscomb University requirements for admission, an applicant to either the certificate or M.A. program in conflict management must submit the following:

Application Form. Each applicant must complete an application form. The application form is available at lipscomb.edu/admissions/graduate then click on “Apply by Program” to complete the online application.
Application Fee. Each application should be accompanied by a $50 nonrefundable application fee.
Writing sample: Applicants must submit a writing sample. The writing sample should demonstrate clarity of thinking, reasoning ability, logic, and strong writing and communication skills. The sample should be an academic or professional document that has been previously written and perhaps evaluated in an academic or professional setting. Previously published work may also be considered. The sample should not be something prepared for the sole purpose of admission to the program.
References. Two letters of reference are required as follows: one from a college or university administrator or professor, one from a professional supervisor/employer, or one from a personal reference with knowledge of your ability to satisfactorily perform at the graduate level.
Official Transcript(s). Each applicant must submit an official transcript, showing degree conferral when appropriate, from all schools attended.
Health Form. Each applicant must submit a completed health form signed by a health care provider. (To print a copy of the health form, visit www.lipscomb.edu/healthcenter/forms.)
FERPA: The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act affords students certain rights of access to educational records; even if you are independent of your parents, you must submit this form prior to enrollment.
Resume. A resume detailing academic, personal, and professional experiences and achievements.
Goals Statement. A 750-1000 word expanded goals statement concerning the applicant’s interest in and application of the program’s curriculum to expected career progression is required.
TOEFL. The Test of English as a Foreign Language is required for international students. (See section titled International Students for more information.)

All items should be digitally submitted through the application portal by the start of the semester or term in which the student plans to enroll.

Transfer of Courses

Graduate credit hours earned at another accredited institution may be transferred toward the ICM degree requirement upon request. A maximum of six hours may be counted toward the master’s degree and a maximum of three hours may be counted toward the certificate. The director or appropriate faculty member of the graduate program will evaluate the course(s) being proposed for transfer and make a determination of suitability. No course with a grade below a “B” will be considered for transfer.

Documentation

Student Classifications

Students are admitted to graduate courses in one of five categories:

Graduate Student: one who has satisfied all admissions requirements. A student with an incomplete admission file will be accepted to the program at the discretion of the program director but will be placed on an academic hold which will prevent registration for the following semester. Once the proper admissions documents have been received, the hold will be removed and the student will be allowed to register for the following semester.
Conditionally Admitted Student: one who has been admitted conditionally, at the discretion of the program director, without satisfying all admission requirements. Students admitted with the following criteria may be required to complete a minimum of nine hours of graduate work with a grade of “B” or above before the conditional admission is removed.
1. From an unaccredited school or with a substandard GPA or GRE/MAT score.
2. A transfer student with a graduate GPA between 2.50 and 2.99. The transfer student must be in good standing at the previous institution attended.
3. As a student who has not completed a bachelor’s degree program. The transfer student must be in good standing at the previous institution attended.
Non-Degree Student: one who has satisfied admission requirements (including GRE or other standardized exam) but does not intend to earn a graduate degree. Such students may take up to 15 semester hours for graduate credit which may be applied toward a certificate. Those hours may be applied toward a master’s degree if the student makes a grade of “B” or better in the courses taken for credit and is formally admitted to a graduate program as a degree-seeking student.
Visiting Student: one who is currently enrolled as a student in good standing at the post-bachelor’s level at another graduate school, wishes to take courses at Lipscomb and desires to have transcript evidence of course work done at Lipscomb provided for the school of primary enrollment.
Probationary Student: one who has been readmitted to a graduate program following academic suspension from the program.

Students who are denied admission may request from the ICM director an action plan to help them identify specific areas where improvement is needed. Students who are denied admission may reapply for admission after completing the action as described by the ICM director.

Academic Policies

Course Load

A student enrolled for six hours per term is considered a full-time student. A student enrolled for less than six hours is considered a part-time student. No student will be permitted to enroll for more than 12 hours per semester without special approval from the director of the graduate program.

Academic Standing

See graduate academic standing policy.

Degree Completion Requirements

Residency

No period of formal residency is required for a degree in a master’s program.

Statute of Limitations

All requirements for the ICM certificate or master’s degree must be completed within a five-year period from the time of initial matriculation.

Candidacy

Admission to a program does not imply admission to candidacy for the master’s degree. During the course of pursuing the ICM certificate or master’s degree, the student must be admitted to “candidacy.” For admission to candidacy the student must satisfy the following:

Complete all required undergraduate deficiencies if admitted on condition.
Complete at least twelve hours of graduate work.
Maintain a 3.00 GPA on all courses taken toward the requirements for the degree with no incomplete grades.
File an “application for candidacy” degree plan form with the graduate program office. This plan must meet all requirements and is approved by the director of the graduate program.

After admission to candidacy and approval of the degree plan, any changes in the degree plan must be approved by the director of the graduate program. The application for candidacy must be filed before the beginning of the student’s last course in the program. No student will be allowed to graduate in the same semester in which the application for candidacy is filed, without permission granted in writing by the program director

Minimum Credits for Certificate and Degree

The certificate in conflict management requires 15 semester hours and the Master of Arts in Conflict Management requires 30 hours, exclusive of hours accumulated to satisfy academic deficiencies.

Minimum GPA

The minimum cumulative grade point average for ICM master’s course work is 3.00. The minimum cumulative GPA for the ICM certificate is 2.5 for all graduate courses taken for graduate credit while pursuing the certificate. No grade below a “C” is acceptable. Such grades will not apply toward degree completion.

Graduation

Graduate students receiving degrees are hooded during the May and December commencement exercises.

Appeals

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees for 2025-26

Tuition
Tuition per credit hour	$1,091
Tuition to audit	50% of tuition

Fees
Application fee	$50
Returned payment fee	$30
Graduation fee	$250
Payment plan enrollment fee (per semester)	$60

Program Trip Fee (see program information for details)

Institute for Sustainable Practice

Steve Joiner, Dean, College of Leadership and Public Service
G. Dodd Galbreath, Director of Graduate Programs, Institute for Sustainable Practice

Core Faculty

G. Dodd Galbreath, Associate Professor of Sustainability

Other adjunct faculty, staff, guest lecturers and program advisors associated with the graduate program in sustainability are posted on the Institute website at www.lipscomb.edu/sustainability.

The mission of the Institute for Sustainable Practice is to develop and advance the practices and profession of sustainability through education, research, training and service to the community and the world. Sustainability refers to a holistic approach in the stewardship of people, the planet, prosperity and providence. The founding principles of sustainability translate to all professions, cultures, organizations, economic markets and natural environments.

Unlike most sustainability programs, Lipscomb University equips professionals from virtually any discipline with advanced expertise in sustainability, including students with non-science backgrounds. Entry-level course work establishes a foundation in sustainability principles. These include: fundamentals of systems thinking, Earth systems, business management, entrepreneurship, corporate social responsibility, social justice, leadership, multi-media communications, and the psychology of behavior change. Advanced courses allow students to earn technical knowledge and to specialize in sustainable food systems, renewable energy, green buildings and sites, green business performance, sustainability metrics, urban resilience, and water management. Students are also able to tailor course work to individual disciplines and interests through course assignments, elective study, independent research, travel study with leading practitioners managing sustainability at scale, and a final capstone project, while earning third party certifications and accreditations. All courses are offered in a HyFlex course format meaning that students may choose on-campus, on-line or a hybrid learning format at any point during a course, switching back and forth as much as their schedule requires.

The Institute for Sustainable Practice offers four graduate study options: a 16-month Master of Science in Sustainability; a 2-year, dual degrees program with a Master of Science in Sustainability and Master of Business Administration resulting in two diplomas for less credit hours due to overlapping course work; a Certificate of Graduate Studies in Sustainability (a “half degree” option); 6 technical certificates, and that can count toward our degrees. All study options begin with the same introductory course work allowing a student to choose the best path based on their initial course experience. All courses offer assignments that students can tailor to personal or career interests. Successful practitioners in sustainability and seasoned academics provide course instruction to combine the best of market experience and subject matter delivery. Course content, field study, sustainability travel, guest expert lectures, annual seminars and conferences provide insight into subject discovery, career networks and the best chances for professional success. Over 60% of graduate alumni are new employed in sustainability or related occupations.

Lipscomb University was named one of the Princeton Review’s 455 Green Colleges in 2023. For five consecutive years, the university founded and sponsored Tennessee’s first Sustainable Business Summit bringing to Nashville leading sustainability pioneers such as L. Hunter Lovins, author of Natural Capitalism; Janine Benyus, author of Biomimicry; Gary Hirshberg, founder and CEO of Stonyfield Farms organic yogurt company and the founder and senior editor of GreenBiz.com, Joel Makower. The Biomimicry Institute also named the university as its first faith-based affiliate member.

Nashville and the State of Tennessee provide excellent content for sustainability in practice. Local and regional highlights include: three Lipscomb University ground-sourced heating and cooling system buildings and Tennessee’s first LEED Gold Certified academic building; municipal buildings in Nashville will meet a 2025 clean energy goal due to a rapidly expanding solar PV industry; Nissan has invested $1.6 billion in electric car and battery technology and products; a $1 billion LEED Platinum (first in the world) Volkswagen automobile plant is located in Chattanooga, the 6-square-mile, $5.8 million Ford Motor and SK Innovation electric vehicle manufacturing campus is being built near Memphis; and a $2.8 billion Ultium battery cell manufacture facility is being finalized in Spring Hill to support new General Motors electric vehicle assembly. Regionally, internationally significant natural resources abound: Middle Tennessee’s Duck River “is one of three hot spots for fish and mussel diversity in the entire world; East Tennessee’s Clinch and Powell Rivers have “historically had one of the richest assemblages of native fish and freshwater mussels in the world; and the Great Smoky Mountains is the most biodiverse park in our national park system.

Sustainability, Master of Science, (M.S.)

The Master of Science degree consists of 30 hours of graduate course work. Since few universities offer such a degree, graduates achieve a competitive advantage for emerging sustainability positions. The degree is ideal for students from any discipline who seek a focused career in sustainability managing people and/or projects, including: corporate management, consulting; design, construction management, business performance, nonprofit development, project management, environmental planning and compliance, and sustainability certification.

Many students complete the program in 12-16 months, but credits are eligible for up to five years. The Master of Science in sustainability is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Sustainability and Business Administration, Dual Degrees: Master of Science in Sustainability and Master of Business Administration, (M.S. and MBA)

The dual degrees program combines cutting edge business training with state-of-the-art training in sustainability resulting in two diplomas. Many professionals choose this option to optimize their competitiveness and to enhance their flexibility with credentials in two disciplines. Students enrolled in the dual degrees program will complete a select grouping of courses from each program (24 hours in sustainability and 27 hours in business). Successful completion of 51 hours of course work will earn students both diplomas, the M.S. in Sustainability and the Master of Business Administration. The dual-degrees option MUST be declared before the student graduates with either degree.

The 4+1 Program Option

Approved courses as noted in their respective course descriptions will be eligible for dual undergraduate and graduate credit for approved degrees, thereby reducing the time to graduation for the approved graduate degree. Students must first graduate with the approved undergraduate degree.

Sustainability, Certificate of Graduate Studies (15 Hrs)

The certificate consists of 15 hours of graduate coursework and comprises one half of a master’s degree. The certificate is ideal for college graduates or professionals with existing masters degrees of any discipline who seek additional professional credentials and fundamental skills in sustainability, without having to pursue a full graduate degree. Selected coursework can include both theoretical and applied courses based on the needs of a seasoned or new professional, as approved by the graduate director.

Graduate Technical Certificates

These certificates are designed to meet the short-term, technical needs of students who wish to study a particular aspect of sustainability and receive a distinction beyond course credit. All courses earned in pursuit of technical certificates may be applied toward graduate degrees in the Institute for Sustainable Practice.

Sustainability: Green Building Systems, Certificate of Graduate Studies

This nine-hour graduate certificate consists of the following courses: SU 6113 Principles of Applied Sustainability; SU 6123 Green Building Design, Construction, and Operation; and SU 6133 Renewable Energy Options and Design Applications.

Sustainability: Corporate/Business Sustainability and ESG, Certificate of Graduate Studies

This nine-hour graduate certificate consists of the following courses: SU 6113 Principles of Applied Sustainability, SU 6083 Metrics of Sustainability, and one other SU course relevant to green business management and sustainable enterprises.

Sustainability: Sustainable Food Systems, Certificate of Graduate Studies

This nine-hour graduate certificate consists of the following courses: SU 6113 Principles of Applied Sustainability, SU 6143 Sustainable Food Systems, and one SU course relevant to regenerative and sustainable food systems.

Sustainability: Renewable Energy, Certificate of Graduate Studies

This nine-hour graduate certificate consists of the following courses: SU 6113 Principles or Applied Sustainability, SU 6133 Renewable Energy Options and Design Applications, and one of the following courses: SU 6063 Metrics of Sustainability or one SU course relevant to renewable energy practices.

Sustainability: Sustainable and Resilient Cities, Certificate of Graduate Studies

This nine-hour graduate certificate consists of the following courses: SU 6113 Principles of Applied Sustainability, SU 6183 Sustainable and Resilient Cities, and one SU course relevant to urban and/or rural communities.

Sustainability: Sustainable Water Systems, Certificate of Graduate Studies

This nine-hour graduate certificate consists of the following courses: SU 6113 Principles of Sustainability, SU 6193 Water Management for Sustainability, and Resilience, and one SU course relevant to clean, healthy, and regenerative use water systems.

Professional Certificates

These credentials are non-credit bearing with optional competency for graduate credit matriculation. Whole courses and specialty modules offered in the current graduate curriculum provide the content and framework for these rigorous and convnient hybrid/hyflex, and asynchronous gradual quality professional development experiences. Professional certificates do not require graduate admission. Graduate admission is required for potential graduate credit matriculation.

Services and Benefits Common to all ISP Programs

All students may choose their attendance/ learning format for any schedule class meeting except required immersive learning: choose from live in class, live online, hybrid/hyflex, and asynchronous recorded classes.
All books, materials, and weekend meals are included in tuition unless otherwise noted during the admissions process (this does not include additional fees required for study in travel).
All assignments, homework submissions, exams and grading are completed electronically.
Professional, applied and real consulting experiences are available in every sustainability course.
Each Term I or II sustainability course meets 1 weeknight per week for 8 weeks. Full-term courses meet 1 night per week for 16 weeks. Other courses may meet as directed such as study in travel.
Graduate courses for graduate credit are open to undergraduates within 12 hours of graduation or may be taken as undergraduate credit courses altered for undergraduate requirements with the approval of the graduate director.
All certificate credit hours can be applied to current and future sustainability graduate degrees offered through ISP, as listed in the aforementioned program summary.
Certificates can be completed in three to eight months and the M.S. in 12 to 16 months, but all earned course credits can be applied toward a certificate or degree for up to five years.
Students have the opportunity to receive a personal library of the most recent and relevant sustainability literature and a professional sustainability tool kit that includes a sustainability resume, web pages, an electronic library of best practices, professional memberships and lifelong contacts.
Students have the opportunity to meet national and international sustainability leaders in-class lectures, at local events, through study in travel, at conferences and other additional events.
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification and other professional credentials can be secured for partial or full graduate credit, depending on the format of the course.

Admission Policies and Procedures

A four-year undergraduate degree, background courses in business or environmental sciences, as well as prior relevant work experience, will most enhance the student experience, but are not necessary for successful completion of the program and professional advancement. In addition to meeting all Lipscomb University requirements for admission, each applicant to the graduate program in sustainability must submit the following:

Application Form. Each applicant must complete an application form. The application form is available at lipscomb.edu/admissions/graduate then click on “Apply by Program” to complete the online application.
Application Fee. Each application should be accompanied by a $50 nonrefundable application fee.
No Standardized Exam Required for the MS Degree and Graduate Certificates. It may be required for dual degree admission.
Writing Sample. Students must submit a brief statement of interest and a writing sample that demonstrates clarity of thinking, reasoning ability, logic, and strong writing and communication skills. The statement of interest should summarize why the proposed course of study is desired, general learning objectives, and career goals. The writing sample should be an academic or professional document that has been previously written and perhaps evaluated in an academic or professional setting. Previously published work may also be considered.
References. Two letters of reference are required: one academic and one character reference.
Official Transcript(s). Each applicant must submit an official transcript, showing degree conferral when appropriate, from all schools attended.
Health Form. Upon acceptance, each applicant must submit a completed health form signed by a health care provider. (To print a copy of the health form, visit www.lipscomb.edu/healthcenter/forms.)
FERPA. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act afford students certain rights of access to educational records; even if you are independent of your parents, you must submit this form prior to enrollment.
TOEFL. The Test of English as a Foreign Language is required for international students. (See section titled International Students for more information).

Note: The above referenced materials support a successful “final review” admission score equal to or greater than 30 points. Additional assessments may be provided for lower scores. All application items should be submitted to the office of graduate admissions at Lipscomb University no later than 30 days before the beginning of the month in which the student plans to enroll. Candidates pursuing the dual degree must meet admission requirements for both the sustainability program and the MBA program.

Student Classifications

Students are admitted to graduate courses in one of five categories:

Graduate Student: one who has satisfied all admissions requirements stated above. A student with an incomplete admission file may be accepted conditionally into the program at the discretion of the program director until all documentation has been secured. Significant delays can result in holds for enrollment, suspension or expulsion.
Conditionally Admitted Student: one who has been admitted conditionally, at the discretion of the program director, without satisfying all admission requirements. Students admitted with the following criteria may be required to complete a minimum of nine hours of graduate work with a grade of “B” or above before the conditional admission is removed.
- From an unaccredited school or with a standardized admission score below admission requirements.
- A transfer student with a graduate GPA between 2.50 and 2.99. The transfer student must be in good standing at the previous institution attended. The transfer student may be accepted upon approval of the Registrar and program administrators.
- A student who has not completed a bachelor’s degree program but who is within 12 hours of graduation. The student must be in good standing at the previous institution attended.
Non-Degree Student: one who has been admitted to graduate studies and has met all admission requirements except GPA. The student may take up to nine semester hours for graduate credit. Those hours may be applied toward a master’s degree if the student makes a grade of “B” or better in the courses taken for credit and if all admission requirements (GPA and entrance requirements) are met and the student is formally admitted to a graduate program as a degree-seeking student.
Visiting Student: one who is currently enrolled as a student in good standing at the post-bachelor’s level at another graduate school, wishes to take courses at Lipscomb and desires to have transcript evidence of coursework done at Lipscomb provided for the school of primary enrollment.
Probationary Student: one who has been readmitted to a graduate program following academic suspension from the program.

Admission to a program does not imply admission to candidacy for the master’s degree. Only those students who meet the requirements for the “Graduate Student” described above are eligible for candidacy.

Transfer of Courses

The director of the graduate program will evaluate all proposed course transfers up to 9 hours. All approved transfers must have earned no lower than a “B” to be considered for transfer. The cumulative total of transfer credits and competency credits cannot exceed 30% of total degree credit requirements (i.e., 9 credit hours).

Documentation

Students are required to provide satisfactory documentation of personal identification for off-site learning experiences required in many programs of graduate study at Lipscomb University. Failure to provide proper credentials will result in failure to complete the desired course of study. For complete policy, see section entitled Required Documentation for Off-Site (and Virtual Classroom) Learning Experiences in the opening section of this catalog.

Academic Policies

Course Load

A student enrolled for a minimum of six hours each semester is considered a full-time student. A student enrolled for less than six hours is considered a part-time student. No student will be permitted to enroll for more than 12 hours per semester without special approval from the director of the graduate program. See the section on “Projected Course Plan” for course schedules.

Academic Standing Program Requirement

See graduate academic standing policy.

Degree Completion Requirements

Residency

No period of formal residency is required.

Candidacy/Degree Plan

During the course of pursuing the Master of Science in sustainability, the dual degree M.S./MBA, or the MBA concentration in sustainability, the student must be admitted to “candidacy.” For admission to candidacy the student must satisfy the following:

Complete all required undergraduate deficiencies if admitted on condition.
Complete at least twelve hours of graduate work.
Maintain a 3.00 GPA on all courses taken toward the minimum requirements for the degree with no incomplete grades and maintain a 2.50 GPA on all courses taken toward the minimum requirements for a certificate.
File a declaration of candidacy form (i.e., degree plan) with the graduate program and office of the registrar.
File a degree plan in the graduate program office which meets all requirements and is approved by the administrator of the graduate program. The degree plan must be filed during the second semester of graduate work in the program.

After admission to candidacy and approval of the degree plan, any catalog or concentration substitutions in the degree plan must be approved by the director of the graduate program. The application for candidacy must be filed before the beginning of the student’s last semester in the program. A degree plan or declaration of candidacy should project the minimum number of hours needed to enter the graduate program (leveling requirements or pre-requisites) as well as the minimum number of graduate courses required to successfully earn a diploma and coordinate these responsibilities with personal obligations. Leveling or other prerequisite requirements could add from one month or more to a projected program of study. Committing fully to the graduate school experience means giving priority to courses, on-campus speakers, field trips, conferences, travel, team projects, individual maturation and professional growth, and interpersonal interactions.

Statute of Limitations

All requirements for the pursuing the Certificate of Graduate Studies in Sustainability or the M.S. in sustainability, must be completed within a five-year period from the time of initial matriculation. Exceptions may be made at the discretion of the ISP graduate director.

Minimum Credits

The M.S. in Sustainability requires 30 hours of foundational and advanced sustainability course work; the dual degrees MS in sustainability/MBA requires 24 hours in each degree program; the Certificate of Graduate Study in sustainability requires 15 semester hours of foundational and advanced sustainability course work; technical certificates require minimum hours as stated (usually 9-12) and all course work is exclusive of hours accumulated to satisfy academic deficiencies.

Minimum GPA

The minimum cumulative grade-point average for graduation is a 3.00 for the minimum course hours required to earn a diploma or dual degrees, and 2.50 for a for the minimum course hours required to earn a certificate. No incomplete grades may exist within the minimum hours required. No grade below a “C” is acceptable for credit. Such grades will not apply toward degree completion.

Graduation

Students must register for graduation the semester in which all M.S. course work will be completed for graduation. Students who do not file their intent to graduate form in the registrar’s office by the end of the first week of their last semester may be delayed in graduating. Graduate students receiving degrees are hooded during the May and Dec. commencement exercises.

Appeals

Any exceptions to the above stated requirements would require approval by the Vice Provost for Academic Affairs in collaboration with the Dean of the College and the Program Director.

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees for 2025-26

Tuition per credit hour
On campus Online (discounted by program to $899)	$1,091
Tuition to audit	50% of tuition

Fees
Application fee	$50
Graduation fee	$250
Returned payment fee	$30
Payment plan enrollment fee (per semester)	$60
Travel fee	Set per course

*Program Trip Fee (see program information for details)*

Organizational Leadership

Organizational Leadership, Master of Arts, (M.A.)
Conflict Management, Certificate in Graduate Studies

Steve Joiner, Dean, College of Leadership and Public Service
Rick Holaway, Director of Organizational Leadership

Core Faculty

Rick Holaway, Assistant Professor
Steve Joiner, Randy and Rhonda Lowry Endowed Professor of Conflict Management

The 30-hour Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership includes a 15-hour graduate certificate in Conflict Management. Both are offered in an online, asynchronous format. Students will be equipped with a comprehensive toolkit of knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to thrive in leadership roles across a wide spectrum of organizations. This program empowers individuals with the essential expertise and capabilities to lead in today’s complex and ever-changing organizational landscape effectively. Students will enhance soft skills and adopt a holistic approach to drive strategic change throughout the organization. Through coursework that covers ethics, motivation, creativity, strategic planning and vision, group development, teamwork, technology and organizational development, students will explore theories and application of effective leadership in a variety of ways. The program prepares management and executive-level leadership in today’s fast-paced global business environment to learn how to motivate individuals, manage teams, and use strategies and models to effect change within a variety of leadership and organizational structures.

Calendar

The MAOL course schedule is available on the web.

Admission Policies and Procedures

Background courses in the law, business, education or social sciences, as well as prior relevant work experience, are desirable. Students may enroll on a full-time or part-time basis, and entry into the program is available during fall, spring, and summer semesters.

In addition to meeting all Lipscomb University requirements for admission, an applicant to program must submit the following:

Application Form. Each applicant must complete an application form. The application form is available at lipscomb.edu/admissions/graduate then click on “Apply by Program” to complete the online application.
Application Fee. Each application should be accompanied by a $50 nonrefundable application fee.
Writing sample or standardized examination score. Students must submit either a writing sample or the scores of a standardized examination (see below for accepted examinations). Writing sample: In lieu of a standardized test score, applicants may submit a writing sample. The writing sample should demonstrate clarity of thinking, reasoning ability, logic, and strong writing and communication skills. The sample should be an academic or professional document that has been previously written and perhaps evaluated in an academic or professional setting. Previously published work may also be considered. The sample should not be something prepared for the sole purpose of admission to the program. Standardized examination score: Students may submit the scores of a standardized examination. Scores from the Graduate Record Examination are preferred for students seeking their first graduate course work. (For more information on the GRE, visit www.ets.org and click on GRE). However, scores for the Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT), MCAT, MAT, or LSAT will be accepted as substitutes for the GRE requirement. Note: testing requirement is waived by submitting a writing sample.
References. Two letters of reference are required as follows: one from a college or university administrator or professor, one from a professional supervisor/employer, or one from a personal reference with knowledge of your ability to satisfactorily perform at the graduate level.
Official Transcript(s). Each applicant must submit an official transcript, showing degree conferral when appropriate, from all schools attended.
Health Form. Each applicant must submit a completed health form signed by a health care provider. (To print a copy of the health form, visit www.lipscomb.edu/healthcenter/forms.)
FERPA: The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act affords students certain rights of access to educational records; even if you are independent of your parents, you must submit this form prior to enrollment.
Resume. A resume detailing academic, personal, and professional experiences and achievements.
Goals Statement. A 750-1000 word expanded goals statement concerning the applicant’s interest in and application of the program’s curriculum to expected career progression is required.
TOEFL. The Test of English as a Foreign Language is required for international students. (See section titled International Students for more information.)

All items should be digitally submitted through the application portal by the start of the semester or term in which the student plans to enroll.

Transfer of Courses

Graduate credit hours earned at another accredited institution may be transferred toward the MAOL degree requirement upon request. A maximum of six hours may be counted toward the master’s degree and a maximum of three hours may be counted toward the certificate. The director or appropriate faculty member of the graduate program will evaluate the course(s) being proposed for transfer and make a determination of suitability. No course with a grade below a “B” will be considered for transfer.

Documentation

Student Classifications

Students are admitted to graduate courses in one of five categories:

Graduate Student: one who has satisfied all admissions requirements. A student with an incomplete admission file will be accepted to the program at the discretion of the program director but will be placed on an academic hold which will prevent registration for the following semester. Once the proper admissions documents have been received, the hold will be removed and the student will be allowed to register for the following semester.
Conditionally Admitted Student: one who has been admitted conditionally, at the discretion of the program director, without satisfying all admission requirements. Students admitted with the following criteria may be required to complete a minimum of nine hours of graduate work with a grade of “B” or above before the conditional admission is removed.
1. From an unaccredited school or with a substandard GPA or GRE/MAT score.
2. A transfer student with a graduate GPA between 2.50 and 2.99. The transfer student must be in good standing at the previous institution attended.
3. As a student who has not completed a bachelor’s degree program. The transfer student must be in good standing at the previous institution attended.
Non-Degree Student: one who has satisfied admission requirements (including GRE or other standardized exam) but does not intend to earn a graduate degree. Such students may take up to 15 semester hours for graduate credit which may be applied toward a certificate. Those hours may be applied toward a master’s degree if the student makes a grade of “B” or better in the courses taken for credit and is formally admitted to a graduate program as a degree-seeking student.
Visiting Student: one who is currently enrolled as a student in good standing at the post-bachelor’s level at another graduate school, wishes to take courses at Lipscomb and desires to have transcript evidence of course work done at Lipscomb provided for the school of primary enrollment.
Probationary Student: one who has been readmitted to a graduate program following academic suspension from the program.

Students who are denied admission may request from the MAOL director an action plan to help them identify specific areas where improvement is needed. Students who are denied admission may reapply for admission after completing the action as described by the MAOL director.

Academic Policies

Course Load

Academic Standing

See graduate academic standing policy.

Degree Completion Requirements

Residency

No period of formal residency is required for a degree in a master’s program.

Statute of Limitations

All requirements for the certificate and master’s degree must be completed within a five-year period from the time of initial matriculation.

Candidacy

Admission to a program does not imply admission to candidacy for the master’s degree. During the course of pursuing the certificate and master’s degree, the student must be admitted to “candidacy.” For admission to candidacy the student must satisfy the following:

Complete all required undergraduate deficiencies if admitted on condition.
Complete at least twelve hours of graduate work.
Maintain a 3.00 GPA on all courses taken toward the requirements for the degree with no incomplete grades.
File an “application for candidacy” degree plan form with the graduate program office. This plan must meet all requirements and is approved by the director of the graduate program.

After admission to candidacy and approval of the degree plan, any changes in the degree plan must be approved by the director of the graduate program. The application for candidacy must be filed before the beginning of the student’s last course in the program. No student will be allowed to graduate in the same semester in which the application for candidacy is filed, without permission granted in writing by the program director

Minimum Credits for Certificate and Degree

The certificate in conflict management requires 15 semester hours and the Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership requires 30 hours, exclusive of hours accumulated to satisfy academic deficiencies.

Minimum GPA

The minimum cumulative grade point average for MAOL master’s course work is 3.00. The minimum cumulative GPA for the certificate is 2.5 for all graduate courses taken for graduate credit while pursuing the certificate. No grade below a “C” is acceptable. Such grades will not apply toward degree completion.

Graduation

Graduate students receiving degrees are hooded during the May and December commencement exercises.

Appeals

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees for 2025-26

Tuition
Tuition per credit hour	$899
Tuition to audit	50% of tuition

Fees
Application fee	$50
Returned payment fee	$30
Graduation fee	$250
Payment plan enrollment fee (per semester)	$60