Systems and methods for configuring stators for downhole electric motors, where a single master stator can be configured to function as multiple different types of stators. In one embodiment, a configurable stator has a plurality of magnet windings disposed within its body, wherein the windings are connected to a plurality of electrical terminals that are accessible from the exterior of the body of the stator. Each of the terminals is configured to enable any one of a plurality of different types of lead wires to be attached to it, thereby enabling the stator to be configured in various different ways. In one embodiment, the master stator can be configured as a single stator, an upper tandem stator, a middle tandem stator, or a lower tandem stator.