Businesses, government agencies, and nonprofits need strong leadership. A master's degree in organizational leadership trains students to lead organizations of all sizes. Many graduates pursue organizational leadership careers. However, the degree prepares students for many roles, including consulting and education administration.
Master's in organizational leadership programs require at least a bachelor's degree. Applicants may also need business experience.
Our guide lists the top online master's programs in organizational leadership. Read on to learn about costs, common classes, and potential careers for graduates.
Featured Online Organziational Leadership Programs
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Why Get a Degree in Organizational Leadership?
Online master's programs in organizational leadership build advanced business communication and leadership skills. Students learn how to lead businesses and help organizations adapt to changing conditions. Many programs run fully or partially online. An online format helps working students balance school and a career.
Graduates often pursue organizational leadership careers. These careers include significant management responsibilities, and graduates can earn above-average salaries. For example, postsecondary education administrators earn an annual median salary of $97,500. This figure more than doubles the annual median salary of $41,950 for all occupations.
How Much Does an Organizational Leadership Degree Cost?
A master's degree costs an average of $66,340, according to EducationData.org. However, costs vary by school, program length, and whether a school is public or private. Most master's programs take 2-3 years to complete.
Many schools offer hybrid or online master's programs in educational leadership. These formats can help students save on common expenses like relocation and transportation. Many programs run fully online, so learners can earn their degree without visiting campus.
Additional Online Student Fees
Online students still pay many of the same administrative fees as campus learners. They often also pay special technology fees. These charges cover online learning expenses and tech support resources.
Online students should also budget for textbooks and supplies. Many programs use a hybrid format that combines online courses with in-person campus sessions. Enrollees should plan for travel and lodging expenses for these sessions.
How Much Do Organizational Leadership Majors Make?
Online master's programs in organizational leadership graduates can pursue top management careers. Degree-holders may work as human resources managers, sales managers, or public relations managers. These professionals often earn six-figure salaries.
The BLS reports that master's degree-holders in all fields earn a median weekly average of $1,545. Bachelor's degree-holders earn $1,305 per week. Pursuing further education, such as a doctorate, may help candidates earn even more.
Courses in a Master's in Organizational Leadership Program
A master's degree in organizational leadership builds advanced management perspectives. Some programs offer concentrations that relate to different professional fields. Options may include higher education administration or nonprofit management.
See below for three common classes in online master's programs in organizational leadership. Not all schools offer these specific classes. Keep in mind that course titles and descriptions vary among programs.
Organizational Behavior and Theory
Strong leadership requires a solid understanding of organizational dynamics. This class explores major theories of organizational systems and behavior. Learners study organizational leadership strategies. Part of the class focuses on broad issues of organizational structure and culture. Enrollees also study employees' interpersonal dynamics.Business Ethics
Many programs include at least one course focusing on business leadership and decision-making ethics. Students examine the varied perspectives that can affect ethical business practices, such as social justice and environmentalism. The class may also highlight ethical communication and ethical leadership in a global context.Capstone
Many organizational leadership programs include a capstone at the end of the program. This project links academic learning to professional practice. Students may identify and address a relevant organizational leadership issue. The capstone lets degree-seekers reflect on their overall learning and their professional future.
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Career and Salary Outlook for Organizational Leadership
Organizational leadership graduates can pursue advanced careers with businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies. Many graduates work in management roles in the private sector. With professional experience, graduates can move into top management positions.
This list highlights three common careers for organizational leadership students. Click the chart's embedded links to learn more about each job.
Human Resources Managers
These professionals oversee an organization's administrative functions. They direct staffing, hiring, and employee benefits. They also connect a company's management to its employees and match workers with appropriate jobs. They manage workplace issues such as discrimination or employee conflict.Sales Managers
These managers direct sales for businesses. They may oversee sales teams or an organization's broader sales strategies. Sales managers often set sales goals, prepare budgets, and analyze sales growth. They may also hire and train other sales employees and develop new sales approaches.Industrial Production Managers
These professionals direct daily operations at factories and other manufacturing plants. They commonly determine production schedules and ensure that production occurs within budget. Production managers may hire and train workers. They may also analyze production data to improve efficiency and streamline production practices.
| Career | Median Annual Salary | Projected Growth Rate (2020-2030) |
|---|---|---|
| Human Resources Managers | $121,220 | 9% |
| Sales Managers | $132,290 | 7% |
| Industrial Production Managers | $108,790 | 5% |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Top Online Master's Programs in Organizational Leadership
Questions About Organizational Leadership
What can you do with an organizational leadership degree?
A master's degree in organizational leadership prepares graduates for leadership and management roles. Degree-holders may work in business or higher education administration. They may also manage nonprofits.
What do you study in organizational leadership?
Learners explore organizational management and leadership strategies. Classes typically cover business ethics and leadership theories. Other courses may cover organizational development.
Do organizational leadership jobs pay well?
Yes. With education and professional experience, graduates can become sales managers. These professionals earn a median annual salary of $132,290, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
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