The Masters in Organizational Leadership prepares managers for the human side of management, developing strategies that increase retention, decrease turnover and help companies to take full advantage of their human capital. The best organizational development masters programs take all of the principals of management and presents them in a human-focused instead of theoretical approach.
Professionals that embark on an online masters organizational management degree will learn how to use their emotional intelligence to work with people and develop creative solutions to common problems within organizations. The Masters in Organizational Leadership degree is more relevant than ever, with companies seeking ways to recruit and retain top talent.
It has become a human resources challenge to find the right people to fill open positions, and to keep them onboard to grow with the organization. The best organizational development master’s programs address these and other common challenges and prepares students to lead for-profit, government, and non-profit organizations.
Courses of Study
Featured Programs
Some of the main courses of study include those in:
- human resource management
- conflict resolution
- communication
- mediation
Students can also choose specializations to further their expertise in specific areas of study. Popular leadership masters degrees offer specializations in areas like:
- Nonprofit Management With a Specialization in Non-Profit Management-Students learn to run not for profit organizations, both small and large. In this track, you will learn how to manage fundraising campaigns, recruit top talents like development staff, administrative staff, and volunteers. You will also learn to manage organizations while meeting standards for non-profit operation.
- Organizational and Leadership Coaching– A management track with a focus on organizational and leadership coaching is a “train the trainer” of sorts and will prepare you for consulting and leading through coaching. Students who take this course of study will be prepared to lead teams through careful business analysis and in-depth professional and executive coaching. You will learn how to advise organizations on hiring practices and develop strategies for motivating and retaining staff.
- Healthcare Management– Students who specialize in healthcare management prepare for careers in hospitals, clinics, and independent labs. Graduates of these programs go on to manage hospital teams, develop operations strategies and create plans for growth and expansion. Healthcare management students learn the ins and out of hospital operations and work in real world simulations that help them to understand how to lead healthcare organizations.
- Project Management– The degree in project management guides the student through the entire process of developing and delivering projects. The project management concentration allows students to explore the full range of the project management process, from conception to completion. Students prepare to work on teams in corporations and in startups.
Salaries for upper-level managers increase with increased credentials, and graduates with degrees in Organizational Management earn higher than average salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary of upper-level managers is $97,270. The top managers earn a median salary of more than $145,000, which makes the masters in Organizational Leadership worth it. The salary can vary by geographic region.
Many graduates go on to work for Fortune 500 companies, non-profit agencies, and the government. Others go on to run small companies and work in consulting and coaching. According to the Society for Human Resource Management, nearly a third of all C-level managers hold a master’s degree, many of them masters degrees in leadership or business.
Related Resource: 35 Top Bachelor’s in Accounting Degrees
The Top 25 Best Organizational Leadership Masters Programs
25. Tiffin University – Tiffin, Ohio
MBA with a concentration in Leadership & Change
Based in Ohio, Tiffin University offers a MBA with a concentration in Leadership & Change. Students in this program work to strengthen their leadership skills and develop new solutions for existing and new business problems. Courses are offered on weekends and in evenings to accommodate the needs of working adults.
Students take courses in areas like:
- management
- leadership
- ethics
- communication
Decision-making skills are highly stressed, and students can expect a rigorous course of study. Students can study completely online or undergo a hybrid course of study, taking some classes on campus and others completely online. This organizational leadership masters prepares graduates for jobs in:
- education
- healthcare
- social services
- church
- government
- law enforcement
- business
24. Pacific Oaks College – Pasadena, California
Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership and Management
Offered entirely online, the Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership is one of Pacific Oaks’ College’s most popular business programs. The basis of the degree is that successful leadership requires in-depth knowledge, and the program provides rigorous instruction that promotes a deep understanding of the subject matter. Students from this best organizational leadership master degree program are expected to make the primary focus on ethical leadership, and a course in ethics is part of the core requirement for the degree.
Graduates of this top online masters in organizational leadership will become responsible and ethical leaders who want to make a change in their organization. There are are many job opportunities that make this online masters worth it. Jobs include:
- Roles in Non-Profit Organizations
- Director, Organizational Development
- Department Head
- Managers of Resource Development
- Vice President
- Project Manager
23. Colorado Technical University – Colorado Springs, Colorado
Online Master of Science in Management – Organizational Leadership and Change
At Colorado Technical University (CTU) students can study toward a master’s degree in Management with a concentration in Organizational Leadership and Change. The degree curriculum is designed to focus on an in-depth understanding of:
- research
- strategy
- methodology
- leadership
Students learn the key skills needed to become upper-level managers and lead large teams. They also apply theory to real world situations and work with other students to develop solutions. This master’s in organizational leadership has ranked among the best online business graduate program by U.S. News and World Report.
CTU students study in seven core courses, including:
- leadership and change
- decision making
- organizational design
- change management
Students can also choose a concentration in:
- management
- leadership
- organizational design
The program requires 48 program hours and can be completed in 18-24 months. Classes begin every 8 weeks making it easy to begin at any time.
22. Arizona State University – Scottsdale, Arizona
Online Master of Science in Organizational Leadership
Arizona State University features one of the best and most affordable masters degrees in organizational leadership. The 11-course curriculum includes management and leadership courses in:
- leadership theory
- evidence based inquiry
- advanced leadership assessment
Courses are taught by industry experts who are committed to excellence in education. Monthly start dates allow students to begin working on their degree when it is most convenient.
Graduates are prepared for exciting roles as:
- training and development managers
- organizational behavior leaders
- strategic organizational leadership
21. Lewis University – Romeoville, Illinois
Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
Lewis University in Romeoville, Illinois is a small, private university centered on Christian faith and values. The University offers an Online Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership, and its graduates go on to careers in human resource management, industrial and organizational psychology and upper-level management. There is a heavy emphasis on conflict resolution and ethics.
The 37 credit hour program requires core courses in:
- social responsibility
- leadership
- management
Students can then drill down their knowledge with a concentration in:
- nonprofit management
- organizational management
- training and development
- education management
- coaching
Each course lasts for eight weeks, and the program is completed in 18 months.
Having a graduate degree in organizational leadership will prepare graduates for a variety of jobs including:
- Non-Profit Development Coordinator
- Corporate Trainer
- Project Business Lead
- Executive Coach
- Leadership Consultant
- Academic Advisor
- Network Operations Manager
20. Colorado State University – Aurora, Colorado
Online Master of Science in Organizational Leadership
Colorado is known for its distance learning options, and Colorado State University’s program is one of the top-ranked nationwide. The University offers an Online MS in Organizational Leadership. Students in this masters degree in leadership:
- tackle complex changes in the global marketplace
- develop new business processes
- implement new policies and procedures in the workplace
With small class sizes and affordable tuition, CSU-Global offers one of the most sought after Masters programs in the country.
Students in this best online masters in organizational leadership complete nine core courses in:
- team leadership
- development
- psychology
- organizational leadership
From there, program participants choose elective courses in:
- human resource management
- accounting
- information technology
- project management
Many students complete the program in less than two years.
19. Regent University – Virginia Beach, Virginia
Online MA in Organizational Leadership
The online MA in Organizational Leadership (MOL) degree program at Regent University covers:
- strategic planning
- employee incentives and motivation
- group business strategies
- organizational development
- business technology
It is considered one of the best Masters in Organizational Leadership programs by multiple sites. The ability to make a difference in public policy and make social change make this masters in organizational leadership worth it.
Students are required to take 33 credits to complete the degree and most graduate within 18 months. Concentrations include:
- human resource management
- coaching
- consulting
- mentoring
- communication
Students work together on group projects and conduct in-depth research in the field. Admission is offered on a rolling basis, and the program is highly competitive.
17. University of Wisconsin Platteville – Platteville, Wisconsin
Master of Science in Organizational Change Leadership Online
The Master of Science degree in Organizational Change Leadership (MSOCL) is one of the highest rated programs in the Midwest. In this program, students apply leadership skills to real-world challenges and sharpen their critical thinking and decision-making skills. They work together in cohorts, and the program is delivered completely in an online format. Students use message boards, chat rooms, and email to work through lessons and master the material.
Students who graduate with the MS in Organizational Change Leadership go on to work as:
- consultants
- change managers
- trainers
Students take 12-15 hours of elective courses and learn everything from business ethics to consumer behavior and psychology.
The program is designed so that most students can complete it in two years. A masters in organizational leadership can lead to jobs such as:
- Healthcare
- Human Resources
- Project Management
- Safety Risk Control
16. Robert Morris University – Moon Township, Pennsylvania
Organizational Leadership MS Online
Robert Morris University’s online Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership focuses heavily on student experience and takes advantage of their in-depth knowledge of a wide variety of industries, from non-profit to small business.
This best online program allows students to delve deeper into the minds and methodologies of leaders to learn how they:
- use theories and strategies
- navigate conflict
- engage in critical thinking and information management
They also analyze organizational behavior and tailor it to common challenges.
The program consists of seven required courses and six elective courses. Students work in groups and individually on varied projects.
Robert Morris University’s master’s program offers flexible schedules that are tailored to the schedules of working professionals. Students learn from business leaders and faculty who are masters in their fields. There is a focus on relationship building and interpersonal communication.
15. Norwich University – Northfield, Vermont
Online Master’s in Leadership
Norwich University offers an MS in Leadership with a concentration in Organizational Leadership. The program is geared toward working adults and offers flexible scheduling and professors with industry knowledge and experience. The students hail from a wide range of sectors, from non-profit to government and private corporations. There is a strong focus on community involvement using the tools learned in the program.
This degree can be completed in as little as 18 months, and many students embark on the 30-hour program while working full-time. This affordable school has been ranked as Best Value by U.S. News & World Report making this top master’s degree in organizational leadership an excellent value.
14. University of South Dakota – Vermillion, South Dakota
MS in Administration with a specialization in Organizational Leadership
The MS in Administration offers a specialization in Organizational Leadership that prepares students for positions in high-level management. The program offers courses that simulate real-world business scenarios. Core courses include those in:
- business writing
- managerial communications
- leadership
Students embark on a 24-credit hour plan of study, which culminates in a final project. Students work together in cohorts, completing a series of modules on a range of topics.
This MSA- Organizational Leadership requires a five-day residency which gives students a chance to meet faculty and their peers. Graduates with this masters in organizational leadership can expect to find jobs in administration and are prepared to lead and manage, problem solve and make responsible and ethical decisions.
13. Azusa Pacific University – Azusa, California
Master of Arts in Leadership
Azusa Pacific University is based in Azusa, California, and is one of the few Christian-centered online universities that offer a Master’s Degree in Leadership. Students work together in a cohort, navigating through coursework with the same group of peers and starting new segments every eight weeks.
Azusa Pacific University’s program is focused on developing the whole person, focusing heavily on ethics and judgment while emphasizing the need for greater interpersonal interaction in the workplace. APU has the reputation of being one of the best schools in the nation as well as being a military friendly school as ranked by G.I. Jobs.
12. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota – Winona, Minnesota
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Designed to mirror that of the typical workplace, Saint Mary’s University’s Master of Organizational Leadership consists of five themed semesters. Each semester tackles another major challenge or issue faced by upper-level managers. The themed semesters are:
- Learning Leader
- Connected Leader
- Adaptive Leader
- Global Leader
- Strategic Leader
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota has a heavy focus on the use of new technology in developing innovative solutions to new and existing workplace problems.
This top online masters in organizational leadership includes learning from real world practitioners, teaches responsible decision making and prepares graduates to collaborate and be adaptable. Every student in the online masters program receives an iPad, so staying connected and engaging with the curriculum is made easy.
11. University of Denver – Denver, Colorado
Master’s in Organizational Leadership
The University of Denver offers the Master’s Organizational Leadership and is regarded as one of the top schools for business in the West. Students can blend both online and in-person courses, and the degree can be completed in as little as 30 hours. Required coursework includes courses in:
- quantitative analysis
- business strategy
- sports management
- non-profit management
- human resources planning
- strategy and execution
This best masters in organizational leadership program has been ranked in the top 100 schools by U.S. News and World Report.
A concentration in organizational development is also available. This will prepare graduates to assess and create models of change within an organization as well as develop a philosophy of change.
10. Saint Louis University – Saint Louis, Missouri
Leadership and Organizational Development, MA
Offering both online and in-person courses, Saint Louis University (SLU) offers a 36-hour MA in Organizational Leadership and Development designed specifically for working adults. The program is completed in eight-week increments making it a great fit for working professionals.
Students of this top online masters in leadership and development program are expected to develop in three key areas—interpersonal, group and organizational development. Creativity and ethical solutions are used to solve existing problems in a project-based learning environment. Graduates will find this masters worth it as they are ready to apply the skills necessary for their future career.
9. Northeastern University – Chicago, Illinois
Master of Science in Organizational Leadership
Northeastern University offers a top online MS in Organizational Leadership that prepares its students to face that challenges that arise in today’s changing world. They have a unique method for developing leaders which has led to a partnership with International University in Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam and Swimburne University of Technology in Melbourne, Australia. This partnership allows students to benefit from the experience of their faculty and from a global community.
This accredited online masters degree in organizational leadership can be completed in 1.5- 2 years. The flexible program fits right into the schedule of a working professional.
8. Northwestern University – Evanston, Illinois
Master’s Program in Learning and Organizational Change
Northwestern University’ offers the MS in Learning and Organizational Change (MSLOC) as a part time online and part time on campus degree. This allows students from anywhere in the US to take advantage of this prestigious masters degree. The school also offers career coaching and alumni support from its extensive network.
Prospective students might consider the MSLOC as an alternative to an MBA as this program truly focuses on people and not just business. This top online masters in learning and organizational change prepares graduates to operate effectively in any environment workin in areas like:
- strategic change
- organizational culture
- learning and performance
Those looking for innovative teaching, curriculum based on the newest research and wanting to make continuous organizational change, should look into MSLOC’s masters program.
7. Regis University – Denver, Colorado
MS in Organizational Leadership
The College of Business and Economics offers an online Master’s in Organizational Leadership, with a focus on leadership and management. In this program, students take a strategic approach to leadership, building on their existing skills while formulating plans to tackle new ones. Students can also take specialization courses in:
- enterprise resource leadership and management
- human resource management
- project management
This masters in organizational leadership is worth it as this top Jesuit school is known for producing dependable, trustworthy leaders who are effective in the workforce.
6. St. Joseph’s University – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Organizational Development and Leadership MS Online
This college is based in Philadelphia and offers its MS in Organizational Leadership and Development completely online. In this program, students are presented with theoretical concepts that they can apply to real-world managerial challenges. Students at this top masters in organizational leadership and development program are encouraged to find solutions to these problems and use their industry knowledge to develop new business concepts.
If you are inspired to bring change to a work environment through effective strategies and a positive work environment, this online MSOLD should be considered. This online masters also includes a four day campus experience, Change Leadership, in Philadelphia, where students are given the opportunity to interact with peers and faculty. Students will learn more about their own abilities, strengths and vision for change in this masters in leadership program.
5. Fresno Pacific University – Fresno, California
Strategic and Organizational Leadership, MA
One of the most affordable programs, Fresno Pacific University, offers an online MA in Strategic and Organizational Leadership. The program, which students can complete in as little as 18 months, costs less than half of that of other online universities. The roster of instructors includes top talent in:
- health care
- non-profit
- the corporate sector
Students in Fresno Pacific’s Master’s program learn what is needed to step into positions of management, and work as directors and high-level executives.
Students in this online masters in leadership and organizational studies will be prepared for jobs such as
- Senior Management
- Non-Profit Administration
- Business Planning
- Community Leadership
4. Quinnipiac University – Hamden, Connecticut
MS in Organizational Leadership
Based in Connecticut, Quinnipiac University has one of the top-rated programs in Organizational Leadership and Management. Their online program can be completed in as little as 18 months, with an accelerated program that is customized for professionals in the field. Students work in small groups, developing strategies and policy decisions that transform organizations, both small and large. This MS in Organizational Leadership program focuses heavily on:
- self-awareness
- ethics
- forward thinking
- interpersonal leadership
Students are encouraged to understand the value of human capital in the workplace.
Quinnipiac has many national accreditation and rating in esteemed publications such as U.S. News & World Report and The Princeton Review.
3. Manhattan College – Riverdale, New York
Organizational Leadership – Accelerated MS
Set in the backdrop of vibrant New York City, Manhattan College is one of the top schools for the Masters in Organizational Management. The University offers an accelerated online program that is tailored for the working student and is comprised of more than 25 courses in:
- management
- leadership
- communication
The program focuses heavily on:
- interpersonal communication
- organizational psychology
- human resource management
The degree program starts with a personalized assessment of the student’s strengths and weaknesses, creating a program that is tailored to their needs. It ends with a capstone project in which students apply their learning to real-world settings.
This top online masters in organizational leadership will prepare you with skills that employers are looking for such as critical thinking, problem solving and clear communication. Job available from a masters in organizational leadership include
- Corporate recruiter
- Department Director
- Human Resource Manager
- Management Analyst
- Marketing Manager/Director
- Medical/ Health Services Manager
- Operations Manager/Director
2. Gonzaga University – Spokane, Washington
Master’s in Organizational Leadership
The online arm of this Spokane, Washington University offers an accelerated program that allows you to earn your Masters in Organizational Management in as little as 18 months. The 30-credit program includes courses in:
- leadership
- ethics
- human resources management
- ethics
Students are challenged to uncover common problems in leadership and management and to develop creative and innovate solutions to those problems. Gonzaga University offers:
- flexible scheduling
- rolling admissions
- scholarships
The university also offers discounts for full-time teachers, principals and clergy in the Diocese of Spokane.
Graduates of Gonzaga University have gone on to be leaders in industries such as
- Microsoft
- Pay Pal
- Lyft
- Starbucks
- Nike
- Walt Disney Company
- Proctor & Gamble
- UN Refugee Agency
1. George Washington University – Washington, DC
Master’s in Organizational Leadership and Learning
George Washington University has a strong reputation for academic excellence and is one of the top schools for the Organizational Leadership Master’s Degree. The school offers an online program that is geared toward working adults and professionals in the field. The online Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership prepares you with the tools you need to manage teams, make solid hiring choices and manage a project. In this program, students learn to progressively build on their leadership skills while working in cohesive teams.
The Master’s in Organizational Leadership at George Washington University is rigorous and pushes students to think beyond their boundaries. Many students in the program are already professionals in their fields and are seeking advanced understanding of the subject matter.
The program is frequently updated to deliver the most timely information in the face of an ever-changing marketplace. Arguably the most highly rated master’s program for organizational leadership, George Washington University’s online degree program is both convenient and relevant.
Jobs with a masters in organizational leadership and learning include the following work settings
- Corporate recruiting
- Government agencies
- Think tanks
- Non-profit organizations
- Higher education