Q&A: Chair of Applied Leadership

July 2, 2025

Headshot of Scott Stanley

The MS in Applied Leadership is one of Brandeis Online's newest and most innovative programs. We sat down with Program Chair Scott Stanley, EdD, to learn more about it. 

What is your current job title, and how would you describe your role?

I’m the Assistant Dean of Education and Learning Innovation at Brandeis Online. I'm also the program chair for the MS in Applied Leadership. I oversee curriculum development, collaborate with faculty to ensure academic excellence, and support our students in becoming adaptive, purpose-driven leaders.

Why did you decide to get involved in the leadership of this program at Brandeis Online?

Brandeis has a legacy of advancing social justice and academic rigor. I saw a powerful opportunity to shape a program that equips leaders with the skills to make meaningful change in a fast-evolving world.

What makes this program unique compared to others?

The program’s stackable structure is a standout. Students complete two 12-credit master’s certificates — like AI-Driven Leadership or Change Management — alongside two leadership-focused courses. It’s a flexible, highly customizable path designed for working professionals.

What course(s) are important to highlight and why?

The capstone is particularly impactful. It challenges students to synthesize everything they’ve learned by leading a real-world initiative, making their education immediately actionable.

“The program’s stackable structure is a standout ... it’s a flexible, highly customizable path designed for working professionals.”

Scott Stanley, EdD

What’s your favorite part of this program?

Without a doubt, our students. Their diverse backgrounds — from tech to healthcare to nonprofit — enrich every conversation. Their insights bring leadership theory to life.

Why is this program especially important right now?

We’re navigating unprecedented global shifts, from digital disruption to workforce transformation. Leaders today must be agile, ethical and data-informed. This program prepares them for exactly that.

What types of students tend to do well in this program?

Motivated, curious professionals who value collaboration and reflection. Many of our students are early to mid-career individuals managing full plates, so they thrive in our flexible, asynchronous environment.

Can you share a story of a successful student or alumni?

Since our first cohort launches in Fall 2025, the story is just beginning. But in our related certificate programs, we’ve seen learners shift industries, lead change and even launch their own ventures.

“Leaders today must be agile, ethical and data-informed. This program prepares them for exactly that.”

Scott Stanley, EdD

What career paths do graduates typically pursue?

Roles like operations director, team lead, department head or project manager in industries ranging from education to healthcare to tech.

What’s it like to work with students in an asynchronous, online environment?

It’s deeply engaging. Students participate in meaningful discussions, share insights from their professional lives and grow through interactive assignments and feedback — on their own schedules.

What skills will graduates gain to stand out in the workforce?

Strategic leadership, ethical decision-making, organizational change management, communication and AI literacy — skills that are both timeless and timely.

Learn more about the MS in Applied Leadership at Brandeis Online.