Online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership Programs 2025

An online Ph.D. in organizational leadership develops mentorship, change management, and cultural leadership skills through rigorous academic research and coursework.

While a master’s in organizational leadership prepares you for leadership roles by teaching career-specific skills, a Ph.D. is more research-oriented and theory-focused, often best for executives, policymakers, or academic professionals.

Explore this page to learn about an online Ph.D. in organizational leadership, its potential outcomes, and some degree options.

Our methodology found all available options for online organizational leadership doctorates, but we ultimately highlighted those with a graduation rate of over 40%.

There are several advantages to earning your doctorate in organizational leadership online. Below we highlight four of the key benefits:

The right online doctorate in organizational leadership program for you is the one that best fits your budget, career goals, and scheduling preferences. Other important factors include strong student support services and proper accreditation.

Institutional accreditation is crucial, especially for online programs, as it ensures you’re attending a vetted school and receiving a high-quality education that will be respected and recognized by employers. In addition to institutional accreditation, organizational leadership Ph.D. programs may hold programmatic accreditation.

These doctoral programs are typically offered through the business department and are accredited through one of two accreditors recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation: the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) or the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

When choosing a doctoral program, total costs and financial aid opportunities can help guide your decision. According to the most recent figures from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the median tuition cost for all online business degrees at the doctorate level is $10,900 per year — around $3,500 less than the traditional, on-campus counterpart.

Many graduate programs offer student teaching or work-study arrangements, which can reduce total costs.

When comparing online doctoral programs, look at a college’s reputation for academic advising, networking opportunities, and career support. Strong support services can make a huge difference in your online college experience.

Many colleges also provide graduation and career placement rates, as well as career services to help you land a job after graduation. This can be especially valuable if you’re planning to switch careers or industries.

Courses in an online doctorate in organizational leadership program may be taught synchronously or asynchronously. Synchronous classes require you to meet and attend live sessions at a dedicated time, whereas asynchronous courses allow you to complete your studies independently on your own time.

Additionally, be sure to check for part- and full-time enrollment options, scheduling conflicts, and any on-campus sessions, as some online doctorate programs feature in-person requirements.

Most doctoral programs in organizational leadership allow you to choose a focus area or concentration that mirrors your academic and career goals. Concentrations can vary among programs, so prioritize programs that match your interests. Some organizational leadership concentrations are:

Earning a Ph.D. is a solid way to expand your career options and enhance your earning potential. With a Ph.D. in organizational leadership, you can pursue various career paths in academia, consulting, and executive leadership. The academic concentration you choose can have a significant impact on career options.

If you’re interested in academia, you can secure a role as a professor or researcher in a college or university. If you’re more interested in the private sector, you may find work in corporate and nonprofit settings.