In collaboration with Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), a national construction industry trade association, Northwood University is launching a new Master of Science degree in Leadership and Public Policy (MSLPP).
Designed to develop future leaders of a global free-enterprise society, the MSLPP offers knowledge and skill development focused on leadership, the economics of public policy, and growing the relationship between government and business.
“Advancing our mission of creating future leaders of a global, free-enterprise society calls for thinking across our typical boundaries and disciplines,” stated Lisa Fairbairn, assistant vice president and dean of the DeVos Graduate School. “We collaborated with leaders at ABC and designed the program specifically to bridge the divides between building/contracting, business leadership, and government. The ABC MSLPP is for aspiring leaders in the construction industry who want to drive improvements in their field and community.”
“This is an exciting, collaborative effort between ABC and Northwood,” stated Jimmy Greene, CEO and president of ABC Michigan. “This program creates an opportunity for employees of ABC member companies to integrate business process improvement tools, strategies, and public policy processes to address complex issues they face in their organizations. By expanding their skillset, they will be making their organization more valuable and competitive.”
ABC member companies that invest in education for employees can expect a noticeable return on investment. Other organizations that have invested in education, training, and development of their workers saw up to 144% return on investment. Students will not only engage with expert faculty and applied coursework, but will conclude the program with a project that has a positive financial impact on their business.
This two-year program, run through the DeVos Graduate School of Management, leverages the study and advocacy generated from the McNair Center for the Advancement of Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship. It is offered online to accommodate people in the workforce with full-time jobs and busy lives. It consists of 10 online courses, occasional residencies, and opportunities for research.
The inaugural MSLPP cohort of construction industry leaders will start in fall 2021. Applicants must hold a four-year, baccalaureate degree or equivalent from a regionally-accredited institution. Candidates interested in learning more should visit our ABC MSLPP web page.
