Lead companies to success with one of the 35 Best Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership.
Organizational leadership focuses on the challenges and goals of a business and how to overcome them. It deals with a company as a part of an industry, and with employees as a part of the company. Organizational leaders help companies to jump over seemingly insurmountable hurdles and confront difficult situations. If you want to help a business excel, organizational leadership is for you.
What Is a Master’s in Organizational Leadership Degree?
While businesses seemingly stay the same from the outside, many people don’t realize that some companies are consistently in some form of organized chaos. People come and go, services change, and businesses negotiate seemingly insurmountable challenges. How does a company negotiate such a tumultuous environment? Well, that’s where organizational leaders come in.
A master’s in organizational leadership empowers and prepares aspiring business leaders to address challenges that can arise in any office setting. As an organizational leadership student, you will learn best practices that enhance the organizational structure of a company. Additionally, you’ll learn to lead companies through the implementation of organizational initiatives.
How Much Can You Earn with a Master’s in Organizational Leadership Degree?
A master’s in organizational leadership is a versatile degree. Graduates in the field have become everything from organizational managers to human resource executives to CEOs. As such, the salary ceiling in the field can be sky-high, depending on your goals.
Below are some sample jobs you can obtain with this degree, and their salaries according to Glassdoor:
- Organizational Development Managers have a $65,937 base pay per year.
- Human Resources Managers earn a base pay of $78,377 per year.
- CEOs make an average of $151,348 per year.
- Executive Directors earn an average of $105,612 per year.
What Is Required for a Master’s in Organizational Leadership Degree?
Given the general nature of an organizational leadership degree, most programs don’t have specific undergraduate coursework requirements. Of course, if you’re a business major, you’ll be ahead of the curve. Still, these programs have accepted undergraduates with degrees in scientific and other non-related fields.
Most graduate programs will also expect you to have:
- A completed bachelor’s degree.
- A 3.00 GPA or higher.
- A strong case for becoming an organizational leadership student, proven by a personal statement.
Graduate coursework varies, but some sample classes you may take include Diversity and Inclusion in Human Services, Law and Ethics, and Managerial Economics.
What Are the Best Master’s in Organizational Leadership Degrees?
OSR uses six data points: three school-wide and three program-specific. For school-wide, OSR uses Student Satisfaction, Admission Rates, and the number of programs the school offers online. For program-specific, OSR checks the Median Debt of graduates from that program, how many degrees are offered within that program’s umbrella department, and what percentage of students at that school graduated from that department.
The six statistics are displayed by each school. The sliding bar under each statistic represents how that school compares to other US institutions. “Not reported” means a school did not release that information to the US Department of Education. A more detailed description of the OSR process can be found on the methodology page.
Cleary University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $16,560(in state) / $16,560(out of state)
- MBA Global Leadership
- Intersection of globalization and business
- $30,360 program cost
School Wide
Program Level
100%OSR ScoreMore than ever before, businesses around the world are planning, working, and competing with one another. Cleary University’s 22-month program comprises 11 courses that focus on managerial methods, surveys of global leadership, laws and ethics, and leadership classes. If you want to lead businesses abroad or know what it takes to interact with them effectively, choose this program.
Capella University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $14,365(in state) / $14,365(out of state)
- Master of Science in Human Services
- You can transfer up to 12 credits
- Sign up for a free trial course
School Wide
Program Level
98%OSR ScoreCapella University offers an excellent leadership and organizational management program with a focus on human services. Two of the offered courses are The Effective Use of Analytics in Human Services and Ethical Practice in Human Services. Due to its focus, the coursework takes a special interest in topics such as social work, psychology, and counseling.
Averett University-Non-Traditional Programs
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $13,125(in state) / $13,125(out of state)
- MBA with a Leadership concentration
- Take classes in intensive, six-week blocks
- Caters to working professionals
School Wide
Program Level
95%OSR ScoreAs an Averett student, you will identify overlaps and differences between leadership and management and learn how to lead in a global economy. The curriculum aims to teach you practical decision-making skills. If you want to become a proficient leader, this Averett course is excellent.
Excelsior College
Quick Facts
- A median of nine transfer credits accepted
- Master of Science in Management with Organizational Leadership concentration
- Median salary for management analysts is $81,320
School Wide
Program Level
89%OSR ScoreExcelsior College offers a highly regarded program that teaches its students to face complicated business issues, negotiate with others, and build effective teams. The required 30 credit hours include 21 credits in core classes and nine in your concentration. Some subject areas include business ethics for managers, organizational behavior, and much more.
Northwood University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $37,080(in state) / $37,080(out of state)
- 24 months
- 30 credit hours
- Program starts in fall, spring and summer semesters
School Wide
Program Level
89%OSR ScoreNorthwood University specializes in sculpting students who have mastered the techniques of collaborative team communication. The degree caters to high-performance professionals who already can prove their ability as leaders. This program will accommodate you regardless of your profession, though, as long as you can demonstrate success.
Western Governors University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6,500(in state) / $6,500(out of state)
- 97% of graduates recommend the program
- $4,180 per six-month term
- 62% of graduates finish within 18 months
School Wide
Program Level
88%OSR ScoreWestern Governors University’s excellent Management and Leadership program offers courses in four areas of study: management, leadership, business acumen, and strategy. Course examples include Managing Human Capital, Change Management and Innovation, and Strategic Management. For a varied curriculum under excellent instructors, choose Western Governors University’s program.
Strayer University-Alabama
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $16,866(in state) / $16,866(out of state)
- 12 courses to complete
- $2,490 per course
- Spring classes begin April 6
School Wide
Program Level
87%OSR ScoreThe mission of Strayer University’s Master of Human Resource & Organizational Development is to train students to build better companies. To achieve its mission, the program teaches students to understand HR theory and practices, facilitate organizational change, and design employee development programs. The program prepares students to help companies better themselves, no matter the field.
City University of Seattle
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $15,264(in state) / $15,264(out of state)
- 42 total credits
- Students can enroll in any quarter
- Finish in as little as 15 months
School Wide
Program Level
87%OSR ScoreDo you want to manage business teams, familiarize yourself with the effects of organizational culture on a company, and establish operational plans? The City University of Seattle’s Master of Science in Management and Leadership will help you become a leader in your chosen field. With fantastic classes such as Communication and Influence, Thought Leadership and Creativity, and many more, this program won’t let you down.
National University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $14,976(in state) / $14,976(out of state)
- Four-week classes
- Tuition discounts to servicemembers
- Complete the program in 12-14 months
School Wide
Program Level
85%OSR ScoreNational University’s Master of Science in Organizational Leadership has a track record of producing effective leaders. Unique among similar programs, this online organizational leadership program emphasizes the importance of sustainability to a business and its investors. For a well-rounded program that emphasizes creating ethical leaders, choose National University.
Trident University International
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6,120(in state) / $6,120(out of state)
- 36 total credit hours
- $540 per credit
- Reduced rates for service members
School Wide
Program Level
84%OSR ScoreTrident University’s Master’s in Leadership program was founded on three traditional values: personal integrity, organizational ethics, and service to others. Given the diversity of organizational leadership work, this program emphasizes a well-rounded curriculum. The program is flexible, too: it allows students to study part-time if they’re employed, and it provides program start dates each month for new students.
Indiana Institute of Technology
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $11,466(in state) / $11,466(out of state)
- Courses option or Direct Project option
- MS in Technology with an emphasis on Organizational Leadership
- Nine credit hours in electives
School Wide
Program Level
83%OSR ScoreIUPUI’s program is unique because of its organizational leadership focus within a technology context. The program seeks to prepare you for a leadership position in a contemporary, tech-focused workplace. This program will teach you to apply organizational leadership theories to the workplace and become a strong leader in an emerging industry.
Granite State College
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $8,409(in state) / $9,180(out of state)
- Career counseling available to all students
- Regionally accredited by NECHE
- Faculty work directly with students
School Wide
Program Level
83%OSR ScoreWith such excellent courses as Foundations of Organizational Communication, Leading Teams, and Maximizing Your Organization’s Potential, Granite State College’s online Master’s in Leadership program is fantastic. In today’s environment, leadership entails roles that didn’t necessarily exist a few decades ago. This program will prepare you to excel today and adapt to future changes.
Southwestern Assemblies of God University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $10,530(in state) / $10,530(out of state)
- Focused on Christian leadership
- The program integrates faith and learning
- Students have access to all online campus resources
School Wide
Program Level
81%OSR ScoreThis online Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership program is unique due to its blend of Christian and business-focused coursework. Whether you want to work in a leadership role within a ministry or in a traditional workplace, SAGU offers excellent courses. For Christian-leaning leadership opportunities, check out SAGU today.
Champlain College
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $14,310(in state) / $14,310(out of state)
- Two eight-week terms per semester
- Three semesters per year
- 36 credit hours required
School Wide
Program Level
81%OSR ScoreChamplain College’s online Master’s in Executive Leadership is a personalized program catering to your knowledge and aspirations. Course examples Leadership & Imagination, Leading Transformation Thru Relationship, and Communication: Individuals & Groups. By the end of this program, you’ll be an excellent and able leader whose skills can help companies flourish.
Piedmont International University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $5,850(in state) / $5,850(out of state)
- Two-year program
- 36 semester credit hours
- Students must complete at least 27 credits at Piedmont
School Wide
Program Level
80%OSR ScoreBy the end of Piedmont International University’s Master of Arts in Leadership program, students will be able to demonstrate a deep understanding of leadership theories and competence in conducting research. Students will also know how to apply theories to their specific professional contexts. Some of the courses you’ll take are Team Building, Conflict and Collaboration, and Theories of Leadership.
Siena Heights University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $10,800(in state) / $10,800(out of state)
- 36 credit hours for major
- 18 credit hours in Professional Core Courses
- 18 credit hours in Sequence Courses
School Wide
Program Level
79%OSR ScoreSiena Heights offers an excellent Organizational Leadership program that includes courses such as Leadership Theory and Negotiations as a Process. The program is intended for individuals with five or more years of work experience. If you don’t quite have this much time under your belt, you can still make a case for admittance.
Baker College
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $12,510(in state) / $12,510(out of state)
- MBA in Leadership Studies
- Program is eligible for Accelerated Path option
- Classes led by corporate professionals
School Wide
Program Level
79%OSR ScoreBaker College’s MBA in Leadership Studies requires students to take 12 credits in their major and 26 credits in business requirements. Some class offerings include Strategy in a Global Environment and Profiles in Leadership. Baker College designs its programs to make its students into high-ranking, influential executives who understand the full business process.
New England College
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $13,080(in state) / $13,080(out of state)
- 36 credit program
- Ten courses and a thesis requirement
- Choose from four concentrations
School Wide
Program Level
79%OSR ScoreNew England College’s Master of Science in Management students can choose between the following concentrations: Healthcare Administration, Nonprofit Leadership, Project Management, and Real Estate Management. Over one or two years, depending on your schedule, this program will enable you to excel. If your preferred professional field is on this list, then don’t hesitate to check out New England College.
Warner Pacific College Adult Degree Program
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $12,360(in state) / $12,360(out of state)
- Work with a ten-14 person cohort the entire program
- Most classes last six weeks
- 12 courses total
School Wide
Program Level
79%OSR ScoreWarner Pacific University’s online Master of Science in Management program focuses on the theories, models, research, and best practices of business leadership. The program works to impart the knowledge needed to excel in today’s business environment. With small classes, personalized coursework, and an excellent reputation, this program won’t fall short of your expectations.
Central Michigan University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $12,870(in state) / $18,942(out of state)
- Master of Science in Administration with a Leadership concentration
- 36 credits required
- $637 per credit
School Wide
Program Level
78%OSR ScoreThis MSA with a concentration in Leadership program caters to creating powerful leaders for today’s multi-faceted, globalized business environment. The coursework comprises core classes such as Organizational Dynamics and Human Behavior. While this program isn’t one of the cheapest, its graduates earn an impressive average salary of $83,000 upon graduation.
Regis University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $12,852(in state) / $12,852(out of state)
- 30 credit hours
- Classes are offered in an eight -week accelerated format
- Six start dates per year
School Wide
Program Level
78%OSR ScoreRegis offers a high-quality, flexible, and personalized MS in Organizational Leadership that seeks to create powerful and ethical leaders. This curriculum incorporates topics such as team management, effective communication, applied leadership, and more. This program also follows essential leadership questions created by the International Leadership Association.
Columbia Southern University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $3,480(in state) / $3,480(out of state)
- 36 total credits
- Up to 18 transfer credits accepted
- $315 per credit
School Wide
Program Level
78%OSR ScoreCSU’s MS in Organizational Leadership program focuses on leadership theories, organizational information, and knowledge of global events. With a fantastic curriculum and the ability to begin anytime, this program is notable for its quality and convenience. This program will prepare you to handle real-world business situations, from conflict resolution and business policy to motivation and morale.
Cardinal Stritch University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $12,282(in state) / $12,282(out of state)
- Up to nine transfer credits accepted
- Five-credit research project required
- Focused on educators
School Wide
Program Level
78%OSR ScoreCardinal Stritch University’s online MS in Educational Leadership program stands out for its focus on educators who want to hone their leadership skills. This program suits aspiring principals, counselors, deans, and teachers who want to stand out for their leadership abilities. You can take the classes online or through a hybrid format.
Walden University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $11,586(in state) / $11,586(out of state)
- Transfer up to 15 credits
- Embedded graduate-level certificate
- 30 total semester hours
School Wide
Program Level
78%OSR ScoreWalden University’s MS in Leadership includes a graduate-level certificate that students receive upon completing their fourth course. The program offers several specializations: Leader Development, Self-Designed, Executive Leadership, and Integrated Communication Skills for Leaders, as well as a general program. With diverse programs and Walden’s ability to cater to your goals, this program shines as a beacon for aspiring leaders.
Sullivan University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $14,160(in state) / $14,160(out of state)
- Finish in 18 months
- Integrative capstone course
- 48 credit hours
School Wide
Program Level
77%OSR ScoreWith classes such as Managing Organizational Conflicts, Essential Financial Skills for HR Professionals, and Employment Law, this online MS in Human Resource program is excellent. In this program, you’ll learn about compensation, benefits, training, organizational effectiveness, and more. This program is one of the best online master’s that caters specifically to aspiring human resource leaders.
California Baptist University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $13,287(in state) / $13,287(out of state)
- 30 total credit hours
- $625 per credit
- Finish in 12 months
School Wide
Program Level
77%OSR ScoreCalifornia Baptist University’s program focuses on how you as a leader can help businesses negotiate murky water, organizational change, and leadership across cultures. Being a leader in a high-paced, high-demand business environment isn’t easy, but this MS in Organizational Leadership program will prepare you for all leadership positions. Ready for success? Then begin this fantastic program today!
Charleston Southern University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $7,500(in state) / $7,500(out of state)
- Finish in 17-45 months
- 33 credit hours
- $550 per credit hour
School Wide
Program Level
77%OSR ScoreStudents in Charleston Southern University’s highly regarded program have continued their careers to become HR managers, employee relations managers, and training and development specialists. Courses are offered year-round, so don’t worry about missing a start date. This MS in Organizational Leadership focuses on leadership and management practices, interpersonal skills, communication, organizational change, and alignment of values.
Johns Hopkins University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $52,170(in state) / $52,170(out of state)
- Two-year program
- 12 courses
- $4234 per course
School Wide
Program Level
76%OSR ScoreTwo things stand out about Johns Hopkins University’s online Master’s in Organizational Leadership program: its reputation and its cost. This program isn’t cheap, but given the reputation of Johns Hopkins University and the opportunities it provides, it’s worth it. Course examples include Crisis Mitigation, Managerial Economics, Leading and Managing Change, and Leadership and Organizational Behavior.
Northcentral University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $16,553(in state) / $16,553(out of state)
- Six available scholarships
- 16 month recommended completion time
- Program begins every Monday
School Wide
Program Level
76%OSR ScoreNorthcentral University’s online Master of Science in Organizational Leadership has crafted successful business professors, management analysts, and operations managers. The school offers six specialization options: Project Management, Human Resource Management, Criminal Justice, Health Services, Nonprofit Management, and Public Administration. No matter your concentration, NCU’s program will help enhance your leadership abilities and expand your career opportunities.
Colorado Christian University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $12,511(in state) / $12,511(out of state)
- 36 total credit hours
- Classes are completed in five-week blocks
- Students can transfer up to six credits
School Wide
Program Level
75%OSR ScoreColorado Christian University’s online Master’s in Organizational Leadership program will help students hone their leadership skills by incorporating Christian theories and philosophy. With classes like Values Aligned Leadership and Human Resources Management, this focused program is as good as any other. Check it out to masterfully combine your beliefs with your career!
Mid-America Christian University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $11,340(in state) / $11,340(out of state)
- Available with a Spanish option
- No work experience required
- Master of Arts in Leadership
School Wide
Program Level
75%OSR ScoreGraduates of this online Master’s in Leadership program have become CEOs, management consultants, human resource managers, and more. The program has four available concentrations: Ministry Leadership, Public Administration, Higher Education Administration, and Business Management. With these concentrations, you can differentiate yourself as a specialized job candidate and as an able leader.
John Brown University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $13,440(in state) / $13,440(out of state)
- 30 total credit hours
- Option to combine on-campus and online learning
- 12 credit hours in leadership courses
School Wide
Program Level
75%OSR ScoreIn John Brown University’s MS in Leadership program, all students must take three classes: Global Leadership and Ethics, Organizational Effectiveness, and Ethical Decision Making in Organizations. Students supplement these classes with core coursework like Christian Foundations of Business and Organizational Management and Leadership. Enroll today for an excellent program that will take you far.
Central Penn College
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $17,631(in state) / $17,631(out of state)
- Receive up to nine life-learning credits toward your degree
- Two concentrations
- Focus on ethical leadership
School Wide
Program Level
75%OSR ScoreCPC students concentrate in Financial Analysis, focusing on leadership in the financial field, or Organizational Development, which caters to business and nonprofit professionals. With courses such as Perspectives of Ethics and Leadership and Leadership Communications, this program prepares students for all things leadership. 89% of graduates found appropriate employment within a year of graduation.
William Penn University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $10,080(in state) / $10,080(out of state)
- 12 total courses
- 36 credit hours
- Students can choose hybrid learning options
School Wide
Program Level
75%OSR ScoreSome of the classes you’ll take during WPU’s Master of Business Leadership program include Effective Business Teams, Leadership and Community, and Leading in a Global Business Environment. The program is structured around the best leadership practices and academia’s latest theories surrounding leadership. To become an able leader, an understanding businessperson, and a stand-out applicant, choose this online program.
Trevecca Nazarene University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,468(in state) / $9,468(out of state)
- 33 total credit hours
- 18 month program length
- $420 per credit hour
School Wide
Program Level
75%OSR ScoreDuring Trevecca Nazarene’s Master’s in Organizational Leadership, students will work with a 19-person cohort to advance their skills, learn together, and challenge one another to become the best leaders they can be. Course examples include Strategic Thinking, Conflict Management and Negotiation, Personal Leadership, and Leading and Building Teams. With a Christian focus and an excellent curriculum, this course suits aspiring Christian leaders.
