Best Online Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership
Updated June 5, 2023
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An online degree in organizational leadership can help you launch a career in executive leadership, general management, or human resources.
Organizational leadership experts help businesses succeed in nearly every industry. They set company-wide goals, develop businesses' strategic visions, and identify ways to improve efficiency. Earning an organizational leadership degree prepares aspiring professionals for this work by instilling high-level management knowledge and cultivating skills in leadership and communication.
Many companies rely on organizational leadership experts to reimagine work culture in light of COVID-19, making it an adaptable and versatile field. Organizational leaders can often work remotely, depending on their work environments.
This page ranks some of the top programs available for online organizational leadership study. It also details what prospective degree-seekers can expect from their programs, including timelines for completion, learning outcomes, and common curriculum offerings, as well as career prospects and related salary data.
Featured Online Schools
The Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership
Arizona State University-Skysong
Scottsdale, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking competitive online study should consider Arizona State University-Skysong. The college boasts 54 fully online bachelor's degrees. The bachelor of arts in organizational leadership may appeal to students seeking to advance in the organizational leadership field.
The program supports flexible study, meeting the needs of every learner. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to choose electives and minors and make other modifications.
Undergraduate students pay approximately $19,282 in tuition. Degree-seekers gain access to internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. On average, learners receive $10,278 in financial aid.
Arizona State University-Skysong at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 44,167
Total Online Programs: 126
Online Bachelor's Programs: 54
Admission Rate: 64%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership
University of Central Oklahoma
Edmond, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Central Oklahoma supports highly ranked bachelor's programs from its main campus in Edmond. The college boasts four fully online bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor of science in organizational leadership.
The rigorous curriculum enables flexible study through an adaptable curriculum. Majors work with academic advisors to select classes that match their interests and fit their schedule. Degree candidates can also choose electives and pursue interdisciplinary study to fit career goals.
Undergraduate students can expect to pay $17,573 in tuition. The institution's accreditation status enables learners to benefit from financial aid during their studies. Students receive an average of $7,755 in financial aid.
University of Central Oklahoma at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 5,580
Total Online Programs: 4
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Admission Rate: 84%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
With its main campus in Iowa City, University of Iowa provides competitive bachelor's degrees to learners from all walks of life. The college boasts four fully online bachelor's programs. Distance learners looking to earn an online degree in organizational studies can enroll in the bachelor of liberal studies in organizational studies.
The program balances rigor with flexibility. Degree-seekers complete industry-specific classes, with the option to add electives and modify their coursework.
The school reports undergraduate tuition as $30,036. Students can access scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The school reports an average financial aid award of $7,231 per degree-seeker.
University of Iowa at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 15,672
Total Online Programs: 25
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Admission Rate: 83%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership
University of West Georgia
Carrollton, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking for competitive online learning opportunities should consider University of West Georgia's online bachelor's degrees. The institution supports six remote bachelor's programs. The bachelor of science in organizational leadership supports flexible, rigorous study.
Degree candidates complete coursework pertinent to the organizational leadership field. Learners work with academic advisors to create a course schedule meeting career and academic goals. Students can work with their academic advisor to modify their classes to suit career interests.
Undergraduates pay approximately $15,426 in tuition. The accredited college connects students with internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. Learners typically receive a financial aid award package amounting to $7,097.
University of West Georgia at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 8,295
Total Online Programs: 24
Online Bachelor's Programs: 6
Admission Rate: 59%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership
John Brown University
Siloam Springs, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking for a flexible bachelor's-level education should consider John Brown University. The bachelor's in organizational leadership is one of the school's four online bachelor's degrees. Distance learners can enroll in the program to complete a college degree online.
The program balances rigor with flexibility, proving beneficial to working professionals, busy students, and other learners. Degree-seekers can modify their coursework by working with their academic advisor. Enrollees can choose electives and minors to supplement their learning.
At present, undergraduates pay $26,458 in tuition. Learners can access numerous funding opportunities through the accredited institution.
John Brown University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 771
Total Online Programs: 10
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Admission Rate: 76%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership
University of Charleston
Charleston, WV - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking to earn a flexible college degree should consider University of Charleston. The college offers six online bachelor's degrees, reaching 2,050 distance learners worldwide. The bachelor's in organizational leadership prioritizes flexibility, making it an attractive option for working professionals and busy students. Degree-seekers can complete classes at their own pace, with the option for part-time study.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the organizational leadership field. Majors choose electives, minors, and concentrations to customize their course of study.
Graduates greatly benefit from their education, gaining access to more job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The median salary for graduates six years after their degree completion is $39,100, according to the college. Applicants interested in learning more about admission requirements and their eligibility for financial aid should connect with the organizational leadership department.
University of Charleston at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 2,050
Total Online Programs: 11
Online Bachelor's Programs: 6
Admission Rate: 50%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#7 Best Online Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership
Missouri Baptist University
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking for a flexible bachelor's-level education should consider Missouri Baptist University. Enrollees interested in distance learning will find the school's 11 fully online bachelor's degrees appealing. Distance learners hoping to advance in the organizational leadership field will benefit from the college's bachelor's in organizational leadership.
Students complete a rigorous curriculum that enables flexible study. In consultation with their academic advisor, degree candidates can modify their course load to suit their needs. Electives, minors, and other modifications can benefit students and meet career goals.
Undergraduate students can expect to pay $26,860 in tuition. Learners can access numerous funding opportunities through the accredited institution.
Missouri Baptist University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,826
Total Online Programs: 25
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Admission Rate: 61%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#8 Best Online Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership
Saint Francis University
Loretto, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Saint Francis University supports highly ranked bachelor's programs from its main campus in Loretto, Pennsylvania. The institution prides itself on its leadership in online learning, offering a bachelor of science in organizational leadership.
The program supports flexible study, meeting the needs of every learner. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to make these and other adjustments. Online degree-seekers also choose minors and electives to individualize the degree.
Students can expect to pay $36,970 in tuition at the accredited institution. Learners can apply for external and internal funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid.
Saint Francis University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 982
Total Online Programs: 7
Online Bachelor's Programs: 1
Admission Rate: 75%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#9 Best Online Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership
Union University
Jackson, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Union University, a private not-for-profit college in Jackson, Tennessee, supports online learning across 15 online programs. Undergraduates choose from two online bachelor's programs. Students looking to advance in the organizational leadership field will find the school's bachelor of science in organizational leadership an attractive option. The program supports flexible study for degree-seekers from all walks of life.
Throughout the program, students attend industry-relevant lectures while completing organizational leadership-specific coursework. This curriculum consists of general education and advanced coursework. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to individualize their degree by exploring electives, minors, and degree concentrations.
Graduates greatly benefit from their education, gaining access to more job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The school reports a median salary of $40,900 for graduates six years after completing a bachelor's degree. Prospective applicants can meet with the organizational leadership department directly to discuss admission requirements, application materials, and other relevant information.
Union University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,238
Total Online Programs: 15
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Admission Rate: 53%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership
Duquesne University
Pittsburgh, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking competitive online study in organizational leadership should consider Duquesne University's online bachelor of science in organizational leadership. The institution supports five remote bachelor's programs. Degree-seekers are prepared for the demands of the organizational leadership field through rigorous study.
The program supports flexible study for degree candidates from all walks of life. Students can work with their academic advisor to modify their coursework to meet academic and career goals. Electives, minors, and other modifications can benefit students and meet career goals.
Degree candidates can expect to pay $39,992 in tuition. At the accredited institution, students can access external and internal funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid.
Duquesne University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,942
Total Online Programs: 21
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Admission Rate: 74%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#11 Best Online Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership
Graceland University-Lamoni
Lamoni, IA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking for competitive online learning opportunities should consider Graceland University-Lamoni's online bachelor's programs. The institution supports three remote bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor of arts in organizational leadership.
Degree-seekers benefit from a rigorous curriculum that enables flexible study. Students can collaborate with their academic advisor to find classes that complement their career interests. Enrollees can choose electives and minors to supplement their learning.
Currently, undergraduates pay $29,750 in tuition. Distance learners can pursue financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, to offset educational expenses.
Graceland University-Lamoni at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 839
Total Online Programs: 9
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Admission Rate: 58%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#12 Best Online Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership
Bethel University
Mishawaka, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Bethel University, a private not-for-profit school in Mishawaka, Indiana, boasts a robust online learning community. Online undergraduates can benefit from studying in one of six online bachelor's programs. Students looking for an organizational leadership-adjacent career can pursue study through the bachelor of science in organizational management program. Enrollees benefit from flexible study, with the option to enroll full or part time.
Degree candidates complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the organizational leadership field. Throughout their studies, learners gain knowledge and skills applicable to the organizational leadership field. Students can individualize their studies by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
The value of a bachelor's degree is clear. Graduates increase their job opportunities and earning potential. At the college, students can expect to earn a median salary of $36,000 six years after graduation. Enrollees interested in learning more about admission requirements and their eligibility for financial aid should connect with the organizational leadership department.
Bethel University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 475
Total Online Programs: 16
Online Bachelor's Programs: 6
Admission Rate: 94%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#13 Best Online Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership
California Baptist University
Riverside, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking to enroll in a competitive bachelor's program should consider California Baptist University. The private college supports distance learners across 24 online bachelor's degrees. The bachelor of arts in organizational leadership is one of the college's 24 programs.
The online program prioritizes flexibility. Students complete coursework relevant to the organizational leadership field, with the option to choose electives and modify coursework.
The school reports undergraduate tuition as $32,942. Learners at the accredited institution can pursue funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, to support their studies.
California Baptist University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 6,112
Total Online Programs: 39
Online Bachelor's Programs: 24
Admission Rate: 78%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Accepted
#14 Best Online Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership
Saint Louis University
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking for a flexible bachelor's-level education should consider Saint Louis University. The institution prides itself on its leadership in online learning, offering 11 online bachelor's degrees. One option includes a bachelor of science in organizational leadership and technology.
Enrollees complete coursework pertinent to the organizational leadership field. Learners work with academic advisors to create a course schedule meeting career and academic goals. Students can also choose electives or pursue a minor to further their learning.
Undergraduate tuition at the school averages $44,700. The accredited institution connects students with internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships.
Saint Louis University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,593
Total Online Programs: 36
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Admission Rate: 58%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#15 Best Online Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership
Judson University
Elgin, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking flexible online study should consider Judson University. The college boasts nine fully online bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor of arts in organizational leadership.
The rigorous curriculum enables flexible study through an adaptable curriculum. Majors work with academic advisors to select classes that match their interests and fit their schedule. Enrollees can choose electives and minors to supplement their learning.
Undergraduates pay a tuition rate of $28,840 at the accredited school. Learners can access external and internal funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid.
Judson University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 550
Total Online Programs: 21
Online Bachelor's Programs: 9
Admission Rate: 39%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
What Is an Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree?
Earning an organizational leadership degree helps you build the core skills necessary to help businesses set goals, inspire staff, and navigate administrative concerns. Graduates are also empowered to identify and develop their own management and communication styles.
The best candidates for an organizational leadership program are strategic thinkers with clear leadership potential. Most programs begin with fundamental courses in management or business administration.
As learners progress toward graduation, they expand their knowledge base with skills in analytical problem-solving, strategic decision-making, team-building, leadership development, and communication. Some programs require a culminating capstone project to help students integrate these concepts with practical situations.
What Are the Differences Between Organizational Leadership BA and BS Degrees?
Some programs offer options to earn either a bachelor of arts (BA) or bachelor of science (BS) in organizational leadership. Which is best for your career depends on what your professional goals are.
The BA pathway focuses on the more human side of organizational leadership, exploring concepts and theories drawn from the social sciences, language arts, and the humanities. A BS focuses more on data-driven approaches to organizational leadership, exploring how scientific and empirical methods of inquiry can enhance efficiency and overall performance.
Choosing an Online Program
Factors to consider when selecting an organizational leadership degree include your professional responsibilities and other outside commitments, financial aid availability, career potential and earning power, and program flexibility. Use the links below to learn more about how to find a program that meets your needs.
What to Expect From an Organizational Leadership Major
Each school offers its own approach to organizational leadership, but most programs have similar curricula and learning objectives. In general, they offer a working overview of the field, covering popular leadership styles, methods of effective management, and problem-solving strategies. Some institutions offer specializations in areas like business management or public administration.
Organizational Leadership Curriculum
While each program sets a distinct curriculum, organizational leadership degree-seekers will commonly encounter the following courses.
- Business Ethics: This class explores common ethical issues in business, including issues surrounding employee management. Coursework focuses on how individuals in leadership roles can use popular management models to make ethical choices.
- Conflict Resolution: Degree-seekers learn how to respond to instances of conflict by using negotiation and collaboration. The class develops clear strategies for facilitating healthy work relationships and organizational efficiency.
- Human Resource Development: This class teaches aspiring professionals how to manage human resources in their organizations and leverage them for success. Coursework covers training implementation, employee education, and how to understand key performance indicators.
- Organizational Communication: Learners in this course acquire core skills in communication techniques, trust-building, and relational development. They also learn how to develop a healthy organizational culture.
- Critical Thinking: Drawing on traditions in philosophy and other liberal arts disciplines, this class teaches degree-seekers how to dissect, analyze, and interpret arguments. Topics include logical reasoning, reflective thinking, biases, and common fallacies.
- Leading Organizational Change: This class focuses on how organizations can thrive amid industry evolution and broader cultural shifts. Coursework covers prominent thought leaders and examines their leadership styles.
Organizational Leadership Careers
Earning an organizational leadership degree marks you as a versatile and desirable job candidate. Some graduates with this degree pursue work in human resources, while others opt to put their skills to work in management or business administration roles.
Featured Online Schools
Here are some popular career options available to organizational leadership graduates.
| Career | Mean Annual Wage (2019) | Projected Job Growth (2019-2029) |
|---|---|---|
| Chief Executives | $193,850 | ↑ |
| Compensation and Benefits Managers | $134,210 | ↑ |
| Public Relations and Fundraising Managers | $132,630 | ↑↑↑ |
| Human Resources Managers | $129,570 | ↑↑ |
| Training and Development Managers | $123,470 | ↑↑ |
| General and Operations Managers | $123,030 | ↑ |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | $115,160 | ↑↑↑ |
| Administrative Services and Facilities Managers | $106,550 | ↑↑ |
| Management Analysts | $95,560 | ↑↑↑ |
Key to Projected Job Growth
↑ as fast as average
↑↑ faster than average
↑↑↑ much faster than average
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Organizational Leadership?
Organizational leadership is an approach to management that highlights how leaders can use a two-pronged approach to goal-setting, establishing benchmarks both for the organization as a whole and for individual employees.
What Type of Degree Is Organizational Leadership?
At the undergraduate level, organizational leadership degrees can be either a BA or a BS. Most programs blend theory with practice to develop techniques for solving real-world problems.
Is a Degree in Organizational Leadership Worth It?
Businesses and organizations across nearly every industry rely on organizational leadership experts. Earning this degree qualifies candidates for many leadership roles and prepares them for graduate study.
Why is Organizational Leadership Important?
Organizational leadership helps businesses, nonprofits, and other organizations work more efficiently to maximize their potential. This approach also provides effective strategies for employee development and retention.
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