Front Entrance of UofSC Aiken

Leadership Programs

Helping students learn to lead

Leadership programs help students discover and enhance their leadership skills.

The University of South Carolina Aiken believes that through quality programs, students can become effective leaders not only on campus, but within the communities they live. Below is a list of leadership programs currently offered at USC Aiken:

Click on the links for more information

Pacesetters

Pacesetters are a group of peer mentors who act as guides for incoming students during orientation.

Student Life Leadership Awards Banquet

Sponsored by the Office of Student Life annually, the Student Activities Leadership Awards recognize outstanding leaders among the student body, faculty, and staff.

Student Leadership Retreat

The Student Leadership Retreat is a two-day retreat hosted at the beginning of the Fall semester for student leaders. A guest speaker is invited every year to help prepare students for their new roles in their organizations. Students spend the two days connecting with other student leaders, and learning about effective leadership through workshops.

The retreat is designed to help student leaders on campus learn about the policies and procedures of the university, enhance team building and leadership skills, and foster an atmosphere of cooperation among the student leadership.

Leadership Courses

Leadership USC Aiken

This unique leadership certificate program prepares graduates to transition into the world of work and become active citizens in their communities. Students in the program participate in both civic and workplace activities, and learn skills that will make them effective leaders in their community and their profession.

Emerging Leaders Class (ASUP 110)

The Emerging Leaders class includes a weekend retreat, a service learning requirement, group leadership projects, readings, and participation in campus life activities.  The class is an excellent way for students to improve and strengthen their leadership skills. (2 credit hours)

Citizen Leadership (ASUP 210)

The Citizen Leadership Class focuses on applying leadership theory to active service learning experiences.  Students will look at citizenship from a variety of perspectives and reflect on their roles as leaders and citizens. (2 credit hours) (Prereq: 30 credit hours)

Leadership Exchange (ASUP 310)

The USC Aiken Leadership Exchange Program (ASUP 310) is an unique leadership opportunity for USC Aiken upperclassmen to enhance their leadership skills by learning about important issue facing our country and how committed citizens can help make a difference. Participants will be selected based on their application and will participate in a leadership exchange program with another university in the country. Selected students will travel to that university for four days and then host students from university to our campus. Applications will be available during fall semester. (2 credit hours)

Resources for Advisors

Student Organization Advisor Training Workshops

Designed for officers in student organizations, these workshops help officers do their jobs better and help them get the most out of their leadership experience. 

Some example topics covered in these training sessions are:

  • Effective Advising
  • Student Organization Sponsored Events
  • Campus Policies
  • Conflict Management
  • Recognizing Leaders
  • Student Organization Policies and Requirements

For further information on Leadership Programs, please contact the Vice Chancellor of Student Engagement and Belonging, Ahmed Samaha at (803) 641-3411.