30 Best Online MBA in Organizational Leadership Programs [2024 Guide]
By Lindsay Aldini
Edited by Briana Sukert
Updated on September 23, 2024
If you think the handshake is one of the most important parts of a business meeting, an online MBA in Organizational Leadership might be for you!
This online leadership degree program combines business basics with important “soft skills” like communication techniques, workplace ethics, and team development– leadership proficiencies that are in high demand in today’s changing business world!
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Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
In 1883 Belhaven University was recognized as a small Christian postsecondary school. Today, this private University has grown to serve thousands each year in gaining a higher learning degree. Belhaven University has more than seventy academic disciplines that allow students to obtain an undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree.
Belhaven University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
As one of the top private schools in the area (U.S. News & World Report), Colorado Christian University incorporates Citizenship, inclusion, in leadership into its many degree programs. Since opening its doors in 1914, Colorado Christian University helps students achieve an associate, bachelor’s, or graduate degree.
The diverse population of students attending CCU is from all faiths and around the world.
Colorado Christian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Established in 1965, Colorado Technical University is a national leader in STEM education. This private research University helps students turn hands-on learning and content curriculum into undergraduate and graduate degrees at an affordable price.
There are many academic majors at CTU, including an MBA, business, healthcare, and organizational leadership.
Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Concordia University – Chicago was founded in 1864 and has been providing a private, faith-based education To students around the world ever since. Through networking opportunities, internships, and co-ops, students are provided hands-on learning and unique learning experiences while earning a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree.
Distance learning programs are also available at CUC.
Concordia University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Serving more than 8,000 students annually, Creighton University began providing educational services in 1978. This private school offers numerous academic majors to help students acquire an undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and professional degrees.
Creighton University is a Christian school that believes in helping the community, so it encourages all students to become involved in community service projects.
Creighton University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Gwynedd Mercy University was established in 1948 as a private Catholic college. GMU serves students of all faiths and has a diverse student population. It has over forty academic disciplines to help students find the right program while earning an undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree.
Each program teaches the importance of critical thinking and innovation.
Gwynedd Mercy University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Jacksonville University first opened as a private junior college in 1934 and began offering higher degrees in 1956. Today, Jacksonville University serves students across the US and in 45 other countries. There are over one-hundred major offered at JU, and students are able to earn a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree.
Jacksonville University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
John Hopkins University is one of the most respected research universities in the US. It began offering private educational services in 1876. Helping students worldwide earn an undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and postdoctoral degree, John Hopkins University also runs a world-class Medical Center.
It’s jobs on providing innovations and technologies that help critical world issues.
Johns Hopkins University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Providing Practical learning and creative thinking to students since 1914, Johnson and Wales University Has a wide array of academic programs to help students earn a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree.
Each curriculum offered at Johnson and Wales University helps students become involved in research that can be used to solve global issues.
JWU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Liberty University is one of the largest schools by enrollment and serves more than 100,000 students a year. Offering both online and campus-based programs, Liberty University has more than 600 academic areas that allow students to gain an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degree.
This private school has a Christian foundation and a diverse population.
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Opening in 1968, Mount Vernon Nazarene University is a private liberal arts college based in the state of Ohio. MVNU offers small class sizes and personal attention to students pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree. Popular programs at Mount Vernon Nazarene University include organization Leadership, An MBA, technology, and education.
MVNU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Commenced in 1971, National University has more than 20 campuses and a dynamic distance learning program to assist students in gaining an associate, bachelor’s, or graduate degree. This private school also offers an accelerated program that allows students to finish their degree quicker.
Some of the programs offered at National University include STEM, communications, and business.
National University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Newman University is a small private postsecondary school that serves about 3000 students each year. This liberal arts Catholic university Sits in the heart of Wichita KS and has a variety of student activities each week. Newman University offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees in a variety of academic areas.
Newman University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Norwich University is a private educational facility that opened in 1819. Students attending Norwich University have access to undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in various academic areas.
NU is known as a military-friendly college and has an extensive ROTC program on campus. Students attending in you can choose to attend online or on campus.
Norwich University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
In 1972 two colleges merges into one, which was the beginning of Oklahoma Wesleyan University. OWU is a private Christian college that serves about 1,200 students each year. Offering both undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees, Oklahoma Wesleyan University has several notable alumni that include political leaders, authors, and ministers.
Oklahoma Wesleyan University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Emerging as a notable public education facility in 1868, Oregon State University has grown to become a renowned college that serves thousands of students each year. There are more than 200 academic programs offered at Oregon State University that lead to bachelor’s, graduates, and doctoral degrees.
Students pursuing an education at OSU have the opportunity to take online or traditional classes.
Oregon State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Opening its doors in 1937, Pepperdine University is a private Christian College That sits in the heart of Malibu, CA. Pepperdine University gives students the opportunity to participate in bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs in more than 70 academic areas of study.
Popular programs at Pepperdine University include an MBA, education, and law.
Pepperdine is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges—Senior College and University Commission.
Queens University of Charlotte opened to women in 1857 as a private school affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. Today is a co-educational university that strives to teach students to use intellectual curiosity to become global citizens and work to solve real-world issues.
QUC has about 100 academic areas for students to acquire an undergraduate or graduate degree.
The Queens University of Charlotte is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Regent University was first commenced in 1977 and is located On Virginia beach. This private school has a Christian Foundation But caters to students of diverse backgrounds and beliefs.
Students at Regent University can participate in programs through distance or campus-based learning to gain a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a variety of academic areas.
Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Established in 1927, Regis University has an array of degree programs that help students bring innovation And technology into the classroom. Students are encouraged to participate in real-life problem solving for global issues while obtaining an undergraduate or graduate degree.
Online and campus-based programs are available to students attending Regis University.
Regis University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Saint Joseph College of Maine has been providing private education to students since it was established in 1912. Each undergraduate and graduate program offered at Saint Joseph College of Maine is grounded in liberal arts to give students a more rounded education.
This faith-based school allows students of all denominations and has online in campus learning options.
Saint Joseph’s College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Southern New Hampshire University has been fulfilling students’ educational needs since 1932. Thousands of students each year both online and on-campus, Southern New Hampshire University has a plethora of academic options that can lead to any level of degree, ranging from associate through professional.
Students around the globe look to SNHU to Reach their personal and professional goals.
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Southern Wesleyan University has called South Carolina home since 1906. This private school offers a faith-based curriculum to help students achieve their personal and professional goals.
Students attending Southern Wesleyan University have an opportunity to achieve an associate, bachelor’s, or graduate degree in various academic disciplines. Online learning is another option that SWU offers.
Southern Wesleyan University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Established in 1872, Spring Arbor University has grown over the years to become a well-known private school. Blending spirituality with practical learning, students pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree at Spring Arbor University has access to a rigorous curriculum in many academic areas.
Offering both online and in-class instruction, Spring Arbor University caters to the needs of every student.
Spring Arbor University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Trevecca Nazarene University was established in 1901 and provides private education at an affordable price. Students attending TMU are expected to learn the importance of teamwork, emotional care, and social presence in each of the academic areas offered.
Trevecca Nazarene University has a range of degree areas from two-year degrees through professional degrees.
Trevecca Nazarene University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Established in 1959, The University of Mary can be found in Bismarck, North Dakota, on their sizeable beautiful campus. This private institution gives students the opportunity to earn undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees in a variety of academic fields at an affordable tuition rate. UM has been noted as a College of Distinction for several years.
The University of Mary is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Massachusetts Global began providing private postsecondary education to students in 1958. Each program at UMass Global is packed with a rigorous curriculum and practical learning. Students attending UMass Global can earn a two-year, four-year, or graduate degree in a variety of program majors.
Popular programs at UMass Global include MBA, organized leadership, and business.
The University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WSCUC Senior College and University Commission.
The University of Saint Mary was created in 1923 as a school for women. Today, this private Christian-based school offers a variety of degree co-educational programs for learners pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degrees.
Students attending the USM can that end either online or in class and will have access to the latest technology to assist in their learning endeavors.
The University of Saint Mary is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.
Founded in 1961, the University of Texas- Dallas is a renowned public research university that serves students throughout the globe. The University of Texas- Dallas has more than 140 academic areas of study that stretch across eight schools. Students attending UTD have the opportunity to earn an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degree.
The University of Texas at Dallas is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Winthrop University was established in 1886 as a public research school based in Rock Hill SC. Serving more than 6,000 students annually, Winthrop University Works to help students achieve their personal and academic goals.
Winthrop University offers forty-three undergraduate degrees and twenty-seven graduate degrees in various academic majors. It incorporates research, innovation, and technology in all areas of study.
Winthrop University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
There are several graduate degree programs that can help you secure leadership roles. Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:
The program that’s best for you will depend on your personal interests and professional goals.
An MBA in Organizational Leadership focuses on improving the internal functions of a business or organization.
In this program, you likely cover topics typically covered in other MBA programs – accounting, finance, marketing, management – however you will examine them from a human resources perspective.
This program can help you learn how to engage and motivate employees so that they are invested in the overall success of the organization or group. This role may be perfect for someone who is social, relatable, and empathetic, and who genuinely enjoys working with people.
An MBA in Management focuses on business management and is aimed at providing the knowledge needed to work in executive, supervisory and managerial positions.
Here again you will likely cover the traditional principals and fundamentals of business – touching on accounting, finance, human resources – but you will look at it through a managerial lens.
This program may suit someone who is goal-oriented, sees the big picture and has a take-charge personality.
In order to differentiate between programs like these, you must recognize that management refers to a role or position, while leadership refers to a characteristic or ability. All managers must be leaders, but not all leaders are managers.
Courses for Organizational Leadership students typically focus on the functional aspects of business, including marketing, accounting, finance, human resources and management, in addition to skills such as mentoring, decision making, and recruitment.
The combination of skills gained in this degree program may allow you to climb the corporate ladder, securing high level leadership and managerial roles in nearly any industry from healthcare to technology to education or anywhere in between. Many graduates pursue roles in sales, marketing, consulting, human resources and training.
The management field as a whole is expected to see positive growth over the next decade. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 7% growth rate with an increase of more than 3,100 jobs in training and development management.
Plus, the average salary for those who graduated with master’s degrees is $78,210. But these graduates could work in a number of different positions, with varying salaries.
Some careers in the organizational leadership field include:
| Careers | Annual Median Salary |
| Chief Executive in Political Organizations | $195,600 |
| Chief Human Resources Officer | $185,950 |
| Human Resources Manager | $121,220 |
| Training and Development Manager | $115,640 |
| Industrial Production Manager | $108,790 |
| General and Operations Manager | $103,650 |
| Administrative Services Manager | $98,890 |
| Education Administrator, Kindergarten through Secondary School | $98,490 |
| Management Analyst | $87,660 |
| Project Management Specialist or Business Operations Specialist | $77,420 |
As you can see, this degree can lead to a variety of positions, all of which are often quite lucrative! If you want to increase your annual salary even more, then consider an online doctorate in organizational leadership. For example, a growing number of universities now offer online EdD in Organizational Leadership programs for students interested in earning a doctorate.
Many Organizational Leadership programs will allow you to select an area of specialization or concentration. This can give you the opportunity to tailor your education to suit the type of workplace or niche area of business that you are interested in.
Here are some examples:
Different Organizational Leadership programs will offer different specialization options. If there is a specific area that you wish to explore keep looking for a program that offers it!
When comparing online Organizational Leadership programs offered by different schools, there are a number of factors you should consider.
Ask yourself:
Most of this information should be available on the school’s website, but if you still have questions the admissions office should be able to help you.
While the exact curriculum will vary between schools, most Organizational Leadership programs take a multidisciplinary approach, covering aspects of leadership, human resources, organizational behavior and communications.
Here are some examples of courses you might take in your degree program:
When comparing degree programs, look closely at the courses offered to get an idea of how each particular program can help you achieve your professional goals.
Master’s and MBA programs are typically more selective than undergraduate degree programs, but their exact requirements vary.
To be admitted, schools may require:
Some schools offer online MBA programs with no GMAT required for admission. They may waive the test score requirements if you meet certain GPA requirements, have extensive work experience, or have previously earned a graduate degree. Each program’s website should outline their specific requirements for application.
It is very important that you select an online MBA in Leadership program through a school that is accredited.
To become accredited, colleges must meet certain quality standards that are established and evaluated by private agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The process involves a thorough review of educational programs and student services.
Regional accreditation is the “gold standard” and most widely recognized form of accreditation. It is what most people mean when they refer to accreditation. According to the U.S. Department of Education, more than 85% of all colleges in the U.S. are regionally accredited.
Choosing a school that is regionally accredited will allow you to apply for federal financial aid and make it more likely to be able to transfer credits if needed. It will also assure future employers that your education and degree are legitimate.
Professional organizations can be a great resource to you! They often provide training and development opportunities, access to industry publications, and host networking events.
Here are some to consider:
Involvement in one or more professional organization can help you continue to learn and grow professionally, and may also lead to future employment opportunities.
An online MBA in Leadership can help prepare you for the following certifications:
Certifications such as these can help you learn skills specific to your industry and prove to employers that you are willing to go the extra mile!
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first and most important step to securing financial aid to help with college costs. The FAFSA is open to all students, including graduate students and online learners.
Many people choose not to fill out the FAFSA because they don’t think they will qualify for assistance, but the fact is, most applicants do qualify. And even those who are not eligible for grants may still qualify for low-interest loans.
Scholarships are another excellent way to get help paying for school, and there is no shortage of scholarships for business students!
Here are some examples to considering applying for:
For more scholarships for MBA students, check with the admissions department at your business school, your current employer, or consult professional organizations.
There are many advantages to earning an Organizational Leadership degree, but ultimately it depends on your own interests and professional goals.
If you are interested in business, but want to focus more on the personal elements, then this degree may be a great choice.
Yes, a masters in organizational leadership is worth it for many students. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, management jobs are set to grow at 5% over the next 10 years, faster than the average for all occupations. Common careers in this field include project management specialist, administrative services manager, training and development manager, and human resources manager.
Going back to school to earn a Masters or MBA in Organizational Leadership online is a big commitment, but it is worth it for many professionals.
Earning an MBA in Organizational Leadership online can qualify you to pursue work in leadership or managerial roles in the corporate, public or private sector. You can oversee people, processes and integration.
You might be a top executive, a human resources director, a plant manager, a training and development manager – the list goes on and on! It all depends on how you want to use your degree!
Organizational Leadership refers to a particular management approach in which leaders establish strategic goals for the organization while motivating employees to work toward the same goals.
Individuals in this field are business savvy, but also people-oriented. They acknowledge the needs of teams and individuals and the essential role that everyone plays in the success of a business.
It usually takes about 18 months to two years to earn an Online Masters in Organizational Leadership.
Some schools offer accelerated programs, which can potentially allow you to earn your degree in less than 18 months. On the other hand, if you choose to take just a couple of courses at a time, or wish to change or add areas of specialization, it may take you longer to complete the program.
The cost of a Master’s in Organizational Leadership program will depend on the school as well as your financial aid package. Typically, you can expect the per-credit cost to be between $400 and $950. That works out to roughly $14,000-$34,000 overall.
Be sure to consider out-of-state tuition fees if you are considering a school that is not in your state. Some schools charge a premium for students who do not reside in the state, while others charge the same tuition rates for all online students.
With an online master’s in organizational leadership, you have the potential to earn up to six figures!
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, master’s degree holders can earn an average salary of $78,210 per year, but many positions earn quite a bit more than that. Human Resources Managers, for example, earn an average salary of $121,220.
Your earning potential will depend on your chosen industry, profession, region and your experience.
A Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership is a graduate level program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in nearly any industry.
Whether you wish to run a local business or a multi-national corporation, oversee a school district or a healthcare facility, this degree program can help provide the expertise you need to effectively lead and motivate workers for overall success.
While these two paths sound the same, the emphasis is slightly different. An MBA in Organizational Leadership focuses on business and cover aspects of accounting, finance, marketing and statistics, while also integrating some soft skills. If you’re interested in an executive or managerial role, this may be the best choice for you.
A Master’s in Organizational Leadership, on the other hand, focuses more on those “soft skills,” the human elements of leading an organization. You may study things like communication techniques, workplace ethics, and team development.
Both are respected degrees, teach transferable skills, and can lead to top positions, so there really is no wrong choice!
You should consider pursuing a MBA in Organizational Leadership online because these programs tend to be versatile, lucrative, and convenient.
The business know-how and soft skills you can develop while earning this degree are not only extremely valuable, but also highly transferable. They can help you be a strong contender for nearly any leadership role in any industry.
Your expertise can help you earn top dollar, too, with a yearly salary ranging from $77,000 to $195,000. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that demand in management jobs will grow 5% in the next ten years.
Earning this advanced degree online can give you the flexibility needed to help you balance your coursework with your existing personal and professional obligations.
Earning a Master’s or MBA in Organizational Leadership online will likely be challenging, but you shouldn’t have to put your life on hold.
As an online learner, you can earn your online MBA degree quickly through an accelerated program or take just a few courses at a time. A number of universities now offer on-campus and online one-year MBA programs. You can study whenever and wherever it works for you, fitting your education in around your family, job and other commitments.
This degree can open exciting new doors, allowing you to pursue the managerial and leadership roles that you’re cut out for!
Explore programs that align with your ambitions—click “Find My Program.”
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