Master of Arts in Trauma-Informed Leadership

Trauma can have a devastating impact on individuals, families, workplaces and societies. Leaders across professions who understand these dynamics can achieve greater success and impact in their fields.

Our interdisciplinary program in this emerging discipline prepares you to take on leadership roles in incorporating a trauma-informed mindset throughout your organization. Whether you’re working in education, libraries, other human and social services, or any field, you’ll learn how to promote an environment of healing and recovery and advance in your career.

Enjoy the convenience of online courses
Get real-world insights from experienced practitioners
Gain hands-on experience through a capstone project at your workplace
Take courses across departments and disciplines
Develop the administrative and management skills you need to grow as a leader

Start building your leadership skills today. Request information now.

What you'll learn

In our core curriculum, you’ll learn foundational concepts and skills in trauma-informed practice and leadership. You’ll study the five guiding principles of trauma-informed care, explore evidence-based intervention strategies and programs, and learn how to build a safe, supportive workplace. You’ll also become more mindful in managing your own trauma, which will help you lead trauma-informed practices at your workplace.

Beyond the core curriculum, you’ll pursue your specific interests and professional goals by choosing electives from across the university. From strategic planning and organizational analysis to conflict resolution and global leadership, the options are varied and numerous.

Finally, you’ll build hands-on skills. For your capstone project, you’ll develop a trauma-informed policy or practice for your current or desired workplace. In the process, you’ll learn to apply theories to the real world and see the impact of your work first hand.

Dominican’s Master of Arts in Trauma-Informed Leadership at a Glance

100% online
33 hours of coursework
Hands-on capstone experience
Faculty with expertise as trauma-informed practitioners
A certificate option that counts toward the full master's degree
Core courses begin each spring term, but master's students can begin at any point with elective courses
Trauma certificate students only start in spring term

What to Expect as you Earn your MA in Trauma-Informed Leadership at Dominican

Dominican’s MA in trauma-informed leadership is entirely online, allowing you to complete your studies from anywhere while working full time. You can take one course at a time or more than one, giving you the flexibility to complete the degree on a schedule that works for you.

You also have the option to pursue our Certificate in Trauma-Informed Practice by taking five of the program’s core courses. You can choose the stand-alone certificate, or apply those courses toward the full master’s if you decide to go further. All students who complete the full degree are awarded the certificate.

Financing your Trauma-informed Leadership Degree

As a graduate student at Dominican, you’ll find the resources to help offset your tuition and costs. Options range from scholarships and student loans to campus employment and graduate assistantships. Contact the Office of Financial Aid to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What can I do with a master’s degree in trauma-informed leadership?

As the concept of trauma-informed practice gains traction throughout the social sector, this degree opens the door to increasing opportunity. You’ll gain the administrative and management skills required for leadership, while also learning to recognize and account for the trauma that people carry.

A master’s degree in trauma-informed leadership will help you advance your career, whether you’re in education, healthcare administration, social services or another field. You’ll stand out to employers seeking leadership candidates not just with advanced credentials but also unique contributions they can bring.

Here are just a few of the sectors where you’ll be prepared to take on administrative roles:

Schools and Universities
Libraries
Government Agencies
Social Service Agencies
Hospitals
Nursing Homes
Mental Health Programming
Substance Abuse Programming
Public Health
Patient Advocacy/Community Relations
Juvenile Justice
Corrections
Community Policing
Victim Services
Rehabilitative Programming
Restorative Justice
Youth Advocacy
Community Development/Organizing
Religious Leadership
Family Planning (including childcare and foster care)
Public Relations
Human Resources
Social Welfare Programming (e.g. housing and food insecurity agencies)

How do I apply?

Please submit the following:

A completed
Personal statement
Resume
Official transcript from degree-granting college/university