Leading with Purpose: How Pepperdine’s Online MSML Program is Transforming Careers

In today's professional landscape, effective leadership is more than a skill—it's a way of thinking, acting, and adapting to new challenges. At Pepperdine Graziadio Business School, the Online Master of Science in Management and Leadership (MSML) program equips professionals with the leadership skills, business acumen, and confidence to thrive in their careers. Designed for those seeking to make a lasting impact, the MSML program blends practical, real-world experience with rigorous academic coursework, empowering students to lead with purpose.

But don't just take our word for it—hear directly from our students and alumni about how their journey through the MSML program has transformed their careers.

Empowered Leadership and Career Growth

“Earning my MSML from Pepperdine was a transformative experience that reshaped my career and, more importantly, the confidence in my own worth. It gave me the courage to step away from the comfort of a steady paycheck in a toxic work environment and take the leap into entrepreneurship. The program equipped me not just with leadership principles, but with the mindset to create change, take risks, and trust in the ability to build something meaningful.”  — Vanya Boardman, Online MSML '22, Co-Founder, Corporate Evolutionist

“Earning my MSML from Pepperdine significantly enhanced my marketability and credibility in the job market, but more than that, it gave me the confidence and wisdom to take control of my career. The network I built has been an incredible resource, opening doors to connections and opportunities I wouldn't have had otherwise. But beyond the external benefits, the program fundamentally changed the way I see leadership, business, and my potential.”  — Austin Roberts, Online MSML '22, Co-Founder, Corporate Evolutionist

“The tools and information provided in Pepperdine's MSML have developed my leadership skills and business acumen. I am a better listener, provide better feedback, and have been able to use and apply theories and information I learned in the course to my personal and professional life.”  — Anneliese Morgan, Director of Sales, Uptown Jungle Fun Park

“Pepperdine's MSML has impacted my career growth by providing knowledge in content areas that have been highly relevant to bring into work every day in my role as a talent leader.”  — Sudha Solayappan, Vice President, People Experience & Talent

“The MSML program has helped me develop my leadership, professionalism, and expand my knowledge of materials that are applicable to my role. In addition, it has made me an asset to my department and given me opportunities to interview for supervisor roles.”   — Hripsime Demirjian, Administrative Coordinator, Kaiser Permanente

“The MSML program taught me so much about the business world and myself, which led me to pivot into a career with a higher earning potential.”   — Michelle Mekikian, Online MSML '24, Surgical Field Sales Development Program, McKesson

A Network of Driven Leaders

From building leadership confidence to unlocking entrepreneurial ventures, these testimonials highlight how Pepperdine's MSML program equips professionals with the tools to lead with clarity, courage, and integrity. The curriculum is designed to be applied in real-time, enabling students to make an immediate impact in their current roles and organizations.

And with a strong network of faculty, peers, and alumni, the connections made at Pepperdine continue to provide support and open doors long after graduation.

About Pepperdine's Online MSML Program

Pepperdine Graziadio's Online Master of Science in Management and Leadership (MSML) is designed for professionals seeking to advance their leadership capabilities while balancing their career commitments. The program provides a flexible, interactive learning environment that fosters growth in strategic thinking, leadership development, and real-world business applications. Whether you're looking to pivot into a new career, grow in your current role, or launch a business, the MSML program equips you with the tools, confidence, and network to achieve your goals.