Journal of Educational Management Research
Vol. 5 No. 3 (2026)

Transformational Leadership as a Driver of International Accreditation: A Strategic Management Model for Private Higher Education

Salsabila, Lativa (Unknown)
Budi Santosa, Achadi (Unknown)
Zuhaery, Muhammad (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
10 Apr 2026

Abstract

This study investigates the transformational leadership model employed by faculty deans in driving international accreditation achievement within private higher education. Employing a qualitative case study design with purposive sampling, data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with nine participants—a dean, five lecturers, and four students—and analyzed using systematic thematic analysis supported by ATLAS.ti software. The analysis identified three overarching themes that form a seven-dimensional, three-layer leadership model extending Bass and Riggio's (2006) framework by integrating foundational value dimensions with operational-contextual and impact dimensions: Idealized Influence as the foundation of institutional trust; Inspirational Motivation and Intellectual Stimulation as drivers of collective commitment; and Individualized Consideration and Strategic Leadership as mechanisms for sustainable institutional development. This model facilitated the international accreditation of three study programs, nearly doubled student enrollment, and measurably improved faculty performance. The findings offer a theoretically grounded and empirically validated reference for higher education leaders pursuing institutional internationalization.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

jemr

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Education Social Sciences

Description

Journal of Educational Management Research is an international peer-reviewed journal which publishes original and significant contributions to educational management, administration, and leadership, in its broadest sense, from all over the world. This includes primary research projects in schools ...