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An executive speaks with two people: Explore the leadership studies certificate at Regent University.

Undergraduate Certificate in Leadership Studies

On Campus, Online
15
March 16, 2026

The Undergraduate Certificate in Leadership Studies is an academic certificate offering students the opportunity to earn a higher education credential that builds upon foundational leadership principles and concepts that can be applied in any work setting. This certificate is ideal for individuals who may not otherwise consider a full degree program but want to learn to lead with excellence and make strategic decisions—from a Christian worldview.

  • Explore organizational operations and the interaction of various leadership styles. 
  • Examine the concept of organizational culture, its development, and the effect it has on people in the organization
  • Identify and analyze complex problems and develop strategies for optimal resolution.

This undergraduate certificate does not include professional licensure.

Regent University’s Undergraduate Certificate in Leadership Studies is for lifelong learners who want to re-skill, up-skill, and get ahead with new credentials. Whether you’re seeking professional development or continuing education, Regent’s 100% online certificate programs will give you the priceless advantage of high-quality education from America’s premier Christian university. To learn more about this program, please complete the Request Information form on this page.

Table listing featured courses with course code, name, and credit hours.
LDST 211Foundations of Leadership: Theory & Exemplars3
This cornerstone course introduces foundational leadership theories and Biblical models. Students examine transformational, servant, LMX, and other leadership approaches while reflecting on Christ-centered exemplars. Emphasis is placed on traits, values, skills, ethics, and the development of a personal leadership philosophy rooted in both academic study and Christian conviction.
LDST 320Systems Thinking & Strategic Complexity3
Examines systems thinking frameworks and organizational complexity. Students learn to map systems, identify interdependencies, and apply feedback loops for adaptive leadership. Emphasis is placed on Biblical principles of wholeness and stewardship as students practice scenario planning, complexity navigation, and risk-based decision-making to sustain mission-driven organizations. Prerequisite: LDST 211.
LDST 331Ethical Leadership in the Digital Age3
This course analyzes leadership ethics in a digital era shaped by AI, data surveillance, misinformation, and environmental-social-governance (ESG) responsibilities. Students explore moral frameworks, Biblical ethics, and cultural challenges. Emphasis is placed on navigating ambiguity, applying ethical reasoning, and leading with integrity across technological, generational, and cross-cultural contexts. Cross-listed with ACCT 320 and MGMT 331.
LDST 355Strategic Communication & Emotional Intelligence3
This course develops advanced leadership communication through research and best practices. Students study self-awareness, empathy, motivation, and influence in decision-making, vision casting, and conflict resolution. Emphasis is placed on emotional intelligence and Biblical principles to build trust, humility, and effective communication across diverse, multicultural, and digital environments. Prerequisite: LDST 211.
LDST 445Strategic Leadership, Planning, & Foresight3
Develops students’ capacity for vision-driven, agile leadership in dynamic environments. Students explore long-range planning, scenario development, and foresight tools such as SWOT and environmental scanning. Emphasis is placed on discerning emerging trends, creating adaptive strategies, and applying Biblically grounded leadership to navigate uncertainty and steward opportunities wisely. Prerequisite: LDST 211.

Students should refer to their catalog or audited degree plan (ADP) for required courses to complete their degree.

Apply to Regent University

Submit your application using the Regent University Online Application.

Note: If you are unable to complete our application due to a disability, please contact our Admissions Office at 757.352.4990 or admissions@regent.edu and an admissions representative will provide reasonable accommodations to assist you in completing the application.

Full-Time Students

Undergraduate CertificateTuition Cost Per Credit HourAverage Credit Hours Per SemesterAverage Tuition Per Semester
Advertising & Marketing$39512$4,740
Biblical Studies$39512$4,740
Business$39512$4,740
Christian Ministry$39512$4,740
Communication$39512$4,740
Computer Science$39512$4,740
Counseling$39512$4,740
Criminal Justice$39512$4,740
Cybersecurity$39512$4,740
Finance$39512$4,740
Government$39512$4,740
Healthcare Studies$39512$4,740
Human Resources$39512$4,740
Information Systems$39512$4,740
International Relations$39512$4,740
Leadership Studies$39512$4,740
Psychology$39512$4,740

Part-Time Students

Undergraduate CertificateTuition Cost Per Credit HourAverage Credit Hours Per SemesterAverage Tuition Per Semester
Advertising & Marketing$4506$2,700
Biblical Studies$4506$2,700
Business$4506$2,700
Christian Ministry$4506$2,700
Communication$4506$2,700
Computer Science$4506$2,700
Counseling$4506$2,700
Criminal Justice$4506$2,700
Cyber Practitioner Preparation$4509$4,050
Cybersecurity$4506$2,700
Finance$4506$2,700
Government$4506$2,700
Healthcare Studies$4506$2,700
Human Resources$4506$2,700
Information Systems$4506$2,700
International Relations$4506$2,700
Leadership Studies$4506$2,700
Psychology$4506$2,700

Student Fees Per Semester

University Services Fee (On-Campus Students)$900 (Fall & Spring)
$750 (Summer)
University Services Fee (Online Students)$750

Military Admissions & Aid » | Cost of Attendance »

*Rates are subject to change at any time.

Note: Eligible students may use their VA benefits to cover the cost of their undergraduate certificate. Learn more about benefits and discounts for military students.

“Regent offered me ... a stepping stone towards academics, towards my future as a Christian leader to change the world, but perhaps more importantly, it gave me a community.”
Katherine Person, B.A., 2017 International Studies
“Regent gave me the skills I needed and prepared me for the work I’m doing now.”
Stryker Watts, B.S. in Business - Marketing, 2013 Senior Manager, Deposit & Regional Marketing, First Republic Bank
“Things anxiety and depression told me I couldn’t do: be independent, live by myself, be completely happy, graduate college (magna cum laude!). Things I’ve done: All of the above.”
Ansley Michaela Hamby, B.A. in Communication Studies, 2020
“Getting a Big Idea/Dreamworks internship and working on VeggieTales in the House was a dream come true. Ultimately I want to write and direct stories, regardless of what form they take. Storytelling is what I love, and I'm so grateful Regent has helped me develop that passion.”
Justin Garcia, B.A., 2014 Animator
“My college career has been anything but ordinary. But after five years, two schools, two majors, a minor, and a global pandemic, I can finally say that I am a Regent graduate!”
Stephanie Clark, B.S. in Paralegal Studies, 2020