Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
Updated March 11, 2024
Managing Future Companies with a Master's in Organizational Leadership
Online master's in organizational leadership programs teach students how to manage and direct diverse companies and organizations. Learners study topics such as leadership and diversity, human potential, and organizational development.
Graduates can pursue in-demand roles like administrative services manager, K-12 school principal, and postsecondary administrator. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that administrative services managers earned a median salary of $98,890 in 2020, while K-12 school principals and postsecondary administrators earned $98,490 and $97,500, respectively.
Students pursuing a master's in organizational leadership online have the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations.
The Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership Programs
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Lincoln Christian University
Lincoln, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in organizational leadership degree at Lincoln Christian University, located in Lincoln, Illinois, prioritizes flexibility. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of arts in organizational leadership program. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to organizational leadership. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in organizational leadership or a related field.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Lincoln Christian University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,154
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,154
#2 Best Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master's in organizational leadership can earn their degree from Michigan State University, located in East Lansing. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of science in management, strategy, and leadership program. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in organizational leadership. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants without a background in organizational leadership may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Michigan State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 71%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master of Science in Management, Strategy, and Leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $18,858
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $37,056
#3 Best Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Pepperdine University
Malibu, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in organizational leadership program, offered by Pepperdine University from its Malibu, California, campus, ranks as a top program. The master of science in organizational leadership and learning program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to organizational leadership. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in organizational leadership or a related field.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Pepperdine University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 32%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and Learning
Graduate Tuition In State: $34,900
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $34,900
#4 Best Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Trevecca Nazarene University
Nashville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Nashville, Tennessee, Trevecca Nazarene University enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online organizational leadership program. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of arts in organizational leadership program. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The master's program recommends a background in organizational leadership or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Trevecca Nazarene University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 62%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,917
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,917
#5 Best Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
York University
York, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's in organizational leadership degree at York University, located in York, Nebraska, uses a flexible distance learning format. The master of arts in organizational and global leadership program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The admission requirements include a background in organizational leadership or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
York University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 57%
Total Online Master's Programs: 2
Program Name: Master of Arts in Organizational and Global Leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,500
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $4,500
#6 Best Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
The University of Mary
Bismarck, ND - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Mary, located in Bismarck, North Dakota, offers a flexible online master's in organizational leadership . The master of organizational leadership program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of organizational leadership. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The master's program builds on prior organizational leadership experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
The University of Mary at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 74%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of Organizational Leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $16,740
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,740
#7 Best Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville
Platteville, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville hosts a top-rated online master's in organizational leadership. The master of science in organizational change leadership program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in organizational leadership. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants with a background in organizational leadership typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 85%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of Science in Organizational Change Leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,640
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,771
#8 Best Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
John Brown University
Siloam Springs, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
John Brown University, located in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, enrolls master's students in its online organizational leadership program. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of science in leadership. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or move into new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in organizational leadership. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program recommends a background in organizational leadership before applying to the program.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
John Brown University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 76%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Master of Science in Leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,400
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $14,400
#9 Best Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in San Diego, California, Point Loma Nazarene University hosts a top-ranked master's in organizational leadership program. The master of arts in organizational leadership emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum explores organizational leadership research and methodologies. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program recommends a background in organizational leadership before applying to the program.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Point Loma Nazarene University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 74%
Total Online Master's Programs: 2
Program Name: Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,880
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,880
#10 Best Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Crown College
Saint Bonifacius, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota, Crown College offers an online master's in organizational leadership. The master of arts in organizational leadership program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in organizational leadership. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with a background in organizational leadership typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Crown College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 50%
Total Online Master's Programs: 9
Program Name: Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,720
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,720
#11 Best Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Lipscomb University
Nashville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Lipscomb University, located in Nashville, Tennessee, enrolls master's students in its online organizational leadership program. The master of arts in organizational leadership encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in organizational leadership before applying to the program.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Lipscomb University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 63%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $18,414
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,414
#12 Best Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Hannibal-LaGrange University
Hannibal, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Hannibal, Missouri, Hannibal-LaGrange University offers an online master's in organizational leadership. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of arts in leadership program. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or move into new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in organizational leadership. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in organizational leadership or a related field.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Hannibal-LaGrange University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 61%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Master of Arts in Leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,250
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,250
#13 Best Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Saint Louis University
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Saint Louis, Missouri, Saint Louis University offers an online master's in organizational leadership. The master of arts in leadership and organizational development program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in organizational leadership. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The master's program recommends a background in organizational leadership or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Saint Louis University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of Arts in Leadership and Organizational Development
Graduate Tuition In State: $20,880
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $20,880
#14 Best Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Gonzaga University
Spokane, WA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master's in organizational leadership can earn their degree from Gonzaga University, located in Spokane, Washington. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of arts in organizational leadership program. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants without a background in organizational leadership may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Gonzaga University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 62%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $16,672
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,672
#15 Best Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
University of Northwestern – St. Paul
Saint Paul, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's degree in organizational leadership at University of Northwestern – St. Paul, located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, offers high academic quality. The master of organizational leadership program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in organizational leadership. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. Applicants with prior experience in organizational leadership or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
University of Northwestern – St. Paul at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 92%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of Organizational Leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,982
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,982
Online Master's in Organizational Leadership Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
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Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
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Featured Online Master's in Organizational Leadership Programs
What Is Organizational Leadership?
Organizational leadership studies the operational oversight in a company with the goal of promoting growth and development. Organizational leaders must remain consistent with the overall corporate vision. These professionals must take person-centered approaches that acknowledges the needs of groups and individuals.
What Is a Master's Degree in Organizational Leadership?
An organizational leadership master's degree uses an interdisciplinary approach to prepare students for careers as organizational leaders. Whether a student hopes to lead a small local business in cornering a regional market or a multinational corporation, an organizational leadership master's degree equips them with the necessary skills to do so.
Master's in Organizational Leadership vs. MBA
An MBA takes an analytical approach to the study of business administration by using a macro perspective that emphasizes administrative theories, practices, and analytics. By contrast, a master's degree in organizational leadership incorporates a more person-centered approach, training students to work with individuals and teams to direct change and development. Those interested in enrolling in an MBA program should visit our ranking of online MBA programs.
Online Master's in Organizational Leadership Programs
During an online master's in organizational leadership, professors administer courses through the institution's chosen online platform, such as Blackboard or Canvas. Before beginning classes, students may participate in an orientation that demonstrates how to watch lectures, submit assignments, complete group assignments, and stay on track with the syllabus. Students connect with peers over email, group chats, announcements, and discussion boards.
Synchronous courses follow a set schedule, enabling students to ask questions and get answers in real time. Asynchronous formats provide 24/7 accessibility, allowing learners to complete a master's in organizational leadership degree at their own pace. Successful organizational leaders possess self-awareness, an understanding of various leadership styles, and how to get the best out of their employees.
The Advantages of a Master's Degree in Organizational Leadership
Earning a master's in organizational leadership degree provides career advancement opportunities. Bachelor's degree holders enjoy entry-level roles, while professionals with a master's degree qualify for higher salaries and more responsibilities. They may also apply to senior-level roles as directors or managers. Graduates with a master's in organizational leadership enjoy career opportunities in human resources, public service, nonprofits, strategic leadership, and healthcare management.
Choosing an Online Organizational Leadership Graduate Degree Program
Important factors to consider when choosing an online organizational leadership graduate program include tuition, program length, transfer policies, and graduation requirements.
- Program Cost: In-state students typically pay less than out-of-state students, though some online programs offer the same tuition to online students regardless of residency. Additionally, public schools often offer lower tuition than private schools. However, many private schools offer more financial aid opportunities to offset tuition costs.
- Transfer Policies: Transfer policies vary by institution. Many regionally accredited schools only accept transfer credits from other regionally accredited schools. In addition to credit for prior coursework, some programs may grant transfer credit for work experience. Check with each prospective school to determine its transfer policy.
- School Size and Type: Small schools typically feature similarly small class sizes that afford students ample one-on-one attention from professors. Larger schools may consist of larger classes, but they may also offer more degree and specialization options than smaller schools.
- Program Length: A master's in organizational leadership typically takes 2-3 years to complete, with full-time students graduating faster than part-time students. Some schools offer accelerated programs that allow students to graduate in less than two years.
- On-Campus Requirements: Consider whether a school offers the program fully online or in hybrid format. Hybrid structures combine online courses with on-campus requirements, so students should ensure that they can meet all on-campus requirements. In fully online programs, students can graduate without visiting campus.
- Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements: Online master's in organizational leadership programs typically do not require a thesis. Students may complete an advanced research project or internship to demonstrate mastery of the curriculum. Many organizational leadership programs prefer applicants with work experience.
Accreditation for Online Organizational Leadership Master's Degrees
Accreditation is a review process that indicates that the school meets high academic standards. Schools may receiveregional or national accreditation. Regional accreditation is typically considered to be the more prestigious of the two. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education recognize accrediting bodies and list accredited schools that students can review. An accredited degree expands employment, financial aid, and education opportunities.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Master's Degree in Organizational Leadership?
Students typically complete an online master's in organizational leadership in 2-3 years. Part-time or full-time enrollment status and credit transfers can affect completion times.
Courses in an Online Master's in Organizational Leadership Program
Organizational Dynamics
This course reviews individual and group behaviors in an organizational setting. Students learn how to steer departmental visions, allocate resources, meet stakeholder deadlines, and assess goal achievement.
Team Leadership
This course reviews the complex issues and challenges faced by team leaders. Students learn how to delegate tasks, manage expectations, and cultivate community. They also study ways to manage diverse and conflicting personalities.
Ethics and Governance
In this course, students study organizational governance principles and frameworks and ethical considerations for leaders. Students examine ethical dilemmas of leadership and their implications for strategy, growth, and decision-making.
Performance Management
Courses on performance management cover the various types of performance appraisals and how they incentivize employees to increase profitability. Learners discuss subjects such as criteria, formats, common mistakes made by supervisors, and coaching guidance.
Leadership Across Boundaries
Supervisors need to feel comfortable neutralizing team conflicts. This course, usually taught as an elective, teaches students how leaders can foster teams and build consensus across generations, cultures, genders, ethnicities, and regions.
What Can You Do With a Master's Degree in Organizational Leadership?
Organizational leaders track the return on investment of human capital in an agency, corporation, or department. They communicate clear expectations for team members, perform negotiations, and delegate tasks. The following positions are common among graduates with a master's degree in organizational leadership.
Senior Project Manager
Overseeing project implementation, senior managers monitor workflows from planning to delivery. They foresee potential challenges and solve problems to stay on track with deadlines. This role necessitates strong communication skills, managerial experience, and advanced knowledge of industry-specific technological programs.
Learning and Development Consultant
This outsourced role facilitates customized strategies and initiatives for corporate and agency clients to boost morale, introduce new policies and procedures, host seminars, and run workshops.
Director of Operations
Directors of operations oversee the daily activities of businesses and organizations. They also guide institutional research and development. They may report to the senior vice president of operations or the chief operating officer.
Chief Human Resources Officer
These professionals set compensation guidelines, grant performance bonuses, and facilitate benefits. They recruit new talent while training, developing, and retaining current employees. They also ensure that the company complies with labor laws and employment standards.
Executive Director
Comparable to a for-profit CEO, an executive director oversees nonprofit organizations. While guiding the institutional mission, they oversee fundraising, budgeting, programming, and community outreach, answering to a board of directors.
FAQ's About Organizational Leadership Degrees
Is a Master's in Organizational Leadership Worth It?
A master's degree in organizational leadership can lead to a career as a project manager, executive director, or chief human resources officer. Many of these professionals make upwards of $100,000 a year.
How Much Can You Make With a Master's in Organizational Leadership?
Graduates with a master's degree in organizational leadership earn an average salary of $108,000 a year, according to Payscale. Many go on to work as project managers or learning and development consultants.
What Can I Do With an Organizational Leadership Degree?
Individuals with master's degrees in organizational leadership can work in nonprofits, businesses, public service, human resources, and healthcare management. They can work as project managers, consultants, or executive directors.
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