By TBD Staff
August 2017
If you are interested in advancing to a leadership position within your organization, an online Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership will give you the knowledge and skills required to feel confident about taking the helm. Choosing an online degree program allows you to upgrade your skills without having to take time away from work or family responsibilities. Organizations need strong leaders to advance their mission, develop their workforce, achieve goals and objectives, and communicate to funders and stakeholders. Earning a master’s in organizational leadership online provides students with the skills employers are seeking in a dynamic business or non-profit environment.
We researched almost 100 institutions offering online programs related to organizational leadership. From this initial list of programs we found using College Navigator, we narrowed our selections to include only accredited schools offering master’s degrees in Organizational Leadership with online coursework and little to no on-campus residency requirements. We developed a ranking system to come up with the top 25 online master’s in organizational leadership. Our ranking system is below:
Average Graduate Tuition per College Navigator
More than $20,000/year-1 point
Between $10,000 and $19,999/year-2 points
Less than $10,000/year-3 points
Student to Faculty Ratio
Greater than 20:1-1 point
Between 15:1 and 19:1-2 points
Less than 15:1-3 points
Area of Concentration
Yes-3 points
No-0 points
Our picks for Top 25 Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
#25. Southern New Hampshire University-Manchester, New Hampshire
MS in Organizational Leadership Online
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $18,810/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 30:1
Points: 3
What’s Unique
The online Organizational Leadership master’s degree at Southern New Hampshire University is designed to develop leaders for today’s exciting, fast-paced, business environment. Students learn to communicate effectively and motive their staff to advance the mission of their organization. SNHU offers a convenient online program with 24/7 access that can be completed in just 15 months. Students complete two courses per 10-week term and learn from experienced, highly educated instructors. There are no GRE or GMAT requirements for this program.
#24. Colorado Christian University-Lakewood, Colorado
Online Master of Organizational Leadership
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $12,567/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Points: 4
What’s Unique
Colorado Christian University offers an accredited online master’s in organizational leadership designed to prepare students for today’s uncertain and fast paced business climate. This 36 credit hour program can be completed in just two years of study and students can transfer in up to six credits of graduate level coursework. Courses are offered in five-week blocks which allow students to move through the program quickly. Small classes with students of diverse backgrounds help to add dimension to this top online accredited master’s in organizational leadership.
#23. Nichols College-Dudley, Massachusetts
Online Master of Science in Organizational Leadership
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $11,700/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Points: 4
What’s Unique
Nichols College is a private, non-for-profit four year institution offering a top online master’s in Organizational Leadership that can be earned in just 18 months of part-time study. Students develop their strengths, or “soft skills” such as team-building, communication, negotiation, and collaboration in order to better navigate today’s challenging business environment. Courses are offered in an accelerated format, with seven-week sessions. A Mentor Program and an extensive alumni network can help students get on the right path to success.
#22. Western Kentucky University-Bowling Green, Kentucky
Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $11,400/year in-state and $16,320/year out-of-state
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Points: 4
What’s Unique
The master’s in Organizational Leadership from Western Kentucky University is a program blending concepts from business, economics, communication, organizational functioning, psychology, and research. This 30 credit hour program can be completed in two years and includes a capstone project in Leadership Studies. There are no GRE or GMAT requirements for the program and students only need to have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution to apply. The program provides enough flexibility for students to choose elective coursework within their chosen field or even earn a graduate certificate while working on their master’s.
#21. Brandman University-Irvine, California
Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $11,160/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Points: 4
What’s Unique
Brandman University, part of the Chapman University System, offers a top master’s in Organizational Leadership online to prepare students for leadership positions in just about any type of organization. Students can tailor the program to meet their own needs by choosing elective coursework from a variety of areas such as human resources, education, computer science, health systems administration, or business administration. This 36 credit hour program includes a Leadership Capstone Seminar for students to apply the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the program.
#20. Western Governors University-Salt Lake City, Utah
Master of Science Management and Leadership Online
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $6,500/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 41:1
Points: 4
What’s Unique
Professionals planning to advance their career should check out the online master’s in Management and Leadership from Western Governors University. Students will learn to manage in a variety of environments such as business, government, nonprofits, and education. Most students complete their degree in about two years but students are able to move at their own pace and on their own schedule. Students work with a Faculty Mentor to develop a personalized degree plan to meet their personal goals and objectives.
#19. Regis University-Denver, Colorado
Online Master of Science in Organizational Leadership
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $11,250/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Points: 4
What’s Unique
The Organizational Leadership online master’s from Regis University is designed to develop the next generation of effective leaders. Students can expect to learn a variety of skills including effective communication skills, team management, human relations, conflict resolution, and project management skills. This 30 credit hour program was developed in consideration of the guiding questions for leadership education developed by the International Leadership Association. There are no on-campus residency requirements for this program and courses are offered in an eight-week accelerated format.
#18 Azusa Pacific University-Azusa, California
Leadership and Organizational Studies Master of Arts Online
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $10,800/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Points: 4
What’s Unique
The online master’s in Leadership and Organizational Studies from Azusa Pacific University College is a 33 credit hour program that can be completed in six semesters. Students gain hands on experience from both for-profit and non-profit sectors, allowing students a greater understanding of the two distinct organization types. Major theoretical concepts are interwoven throughout the program and coursework which allows students to benefit from a comprehensive learning approach. Students are encouraged to use their current place of employment for class projects, which is a benefit to the organization while students are earning their degree.
#17. Saint Louis University-Saint Louis, Missouri
Online Leadership and Organizational Development Master of Arts
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $19,350/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Points: 5
What’s Unique
At Saint Louis University, students in the online master’s in Leadership and Organizational Development learn to be positive agents for change. The program can be completed in about two and a half years by taking one course at a time. Ideal for working professionals, the program provides flexibility to complete coursework at times that are most convenient. Courses in this 36 credit hour program cover areas such as organizational change, talent management, leadership development, and organizational dynamics. Graduates of this top master’s in organizational leadership online are prepared to navigate the complexities of today’s dynamic organizations.
#16. Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs, Colorado
Online Master of Science in Management-Organizational Leadership and Change
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $12,139/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Points: 5
What’s Unique
The online master’s in Organizational Leadership and Change gives students the skills they need to develop their abilities to make decisions as managers in small groups as well as large organizations. Courses cover different approaches to management, roles of leaders, and individual and group reactions to change. This 48 credit hour program includes a management capstone course which allows students to utilize the skills and knowledge they acquired throughout the program. Graduates have gone on to choose successful career paths as program managers, sales directors, business analysts, and general managers.
#15. Saint Mary’s University-Winona, Minnesota
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,100/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Points: 5
What’s Unique
The 20-month online master’s in Organizational Leadership from Saint Mary’s University is designed to help students rise to the challenge of leading an organization. Students learn to master organizational challenges through critical thinking, communication, collaboration, creativity, knowledge management, and decision making. Each student receives an iPad loaded with an online learning platform so students have access to coursework at their fingertips.
#14. University of South Dakota-Vermillion, South Dakota
Online Master of Science in Administration-Organizational Leadership
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,516/year in-state and $14,449/year out-of-state
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Points: 5
What’s Unique
The 36 credit hour online master’s in Organizational Leadership from the University of South Dakota offering students the flexibility to earn their degree while continuing to work in their current place of employment. Students develop a framework for addressing the challenges facing modern organizations and strategies to overcome obstacles. Graduates are prepared to not only lead organizations, they have the knowledge and skills to think critically, analyze issues, and make effective decisions to benefit their organization. Courses cover areas including leadership development, communication and conflict resolution, team building, and organizational change.
#13. Fort Hays State University-Hays, Kansas
Master of Professional Studies in Organizational Leadership Online
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $3,398/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Points: 5
What’s Unique
Offered entirely online, the master’s in Organizational Leadership from Fort Hays State University opens career advancement opportunities for working professionals who need the flexibility of an online program. The Organizational Leadership concentration area teaches students how to be effective communicators in a collaborative environment. Students also design and execute research inquiries to provide decision makers with the information they need to make important organizational decisions. Elective coursework is available in a variety of areas including conflict management, program evaluation, recruitment, and human resource management.
#12. Regent University-Virginia Beach, Virginia
Online Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $12,726/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 28:1
Points: 6
What’s Unique
Regent University is a well respected Christian university ranked favorably by both the Princeton Review and U.S. News and World Report. Regent offers an online Master’s in Organizational Leadership with no on-campus residency requirement and thirteen different areas of concentration. Students develop essential organizational leadership skills such as creativity, strategic planning, group development, technology, and ethics. This 33 credit hour program allows students to develop problem solving skills through collaboration and effective communication. Graduates are prepared for a variety of career opportunities including recruiting, innovation management, business consultant, and economic forecasting.
Concentration Areas
Futures Studies; Healthcare Management; Human Resource Management; Interdisciplinary Studies; International Organizations; Kingdom Business; Leadership Coaching & Mentoring; Not-for-Profit Management; Organizational Business Analytics; Organizational Communication; Organizational Development Consulting; Servant Leadership; Small Business Information Technology
#11. National University-La Jolla, California
Master of Science in Organizational Leadership
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $11,232/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Points: 6
What’s Unique
The accredited online master’s in Organizational Leadership from National University is a two year program comprised of 12 courses specifically designed to prepare students for leadership positions. National University offers a concentration in Community Development for students working in social transformation and community development. This unique four course specialization includes coursework in global development, human environments, culture and change, and planning and evaluation. The program also includes a capstone project designed to give students experience in data collection and research to solve an organizational problem.
Concentration Areas
Community Development
#10. University of Denver-Denver, Colorado
Master’s in Leadership and Organizations Online
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $45,288/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Points: 7
What’s Unique
The University of Denver’s online master’s in Leadership and Organizations is a 12 course program that can be completed in about two years. Aspiring leaders can expect to experience project based learning and cooperative study as they learn how to ethically advance an organization’s mission. As a top 100 university of over ten years according to U.S. News and World Report, the University of Denver is an excellent university for leadership development. Concentrations are available in five different areas to further personalize the program and allow students to advance their career.
Concentration Areas
Human Capital in Organizations; Organizational Development; Philanthropic Leadership; Project Management; Strategic Innovation and Change
#9. Colorado State University Global Campus-Greenwood Village, Colorado
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,000/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 30:1
Points: 7
What’s Unique
Colorado State University Global Campus is the first and only online, regionally accredited, state university in the country. CSU-Global has offered quality online degree programs since 2008 and has earned accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission through the 2025-2026 academic year. The online master’s in organizational leadership is designed to help leadership make important decisions and implement new programs, reduce cost, and train employees. CSU-Global offers both a Practitioner Track and a Research Track to meet the needs of diverse student interests. The asynchronous learning environment means students can work on coursework at times that fit their schedule, allowing them to continue working while attending earning an accredited master’s degree in organizational leadership.
Concentration Areas
Accounting; Applied Business Management; Business Intelligence; Criminal Justice Leadership; Finance; Fraud Management; Healthcare Administration; Human Resource Management; Human Resource Performance; Information Technology; International Management; Online Learning Innovation and Design; Organizational Learning and Performance; Project Management; Strategic Innovation and Change Management
#8. University of Wisconsin-Platteville, Wisconsin
Master of Science in Organizational Change Leadership
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,640/year in-state and $16,771/year out-of-state
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Points: 7
What’s Unique
The 100% online master’s in Organizational Change Leadership from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville is considered one of the best online business degrees in the country according to U.S. News and World Report. The program can be completed in just two years of study and students have the opportunity to transfer in credits to save both time and money. Concentration areas such as Project Management, Healthcare, or Human Resources allow students to focus on specialized areas of interest. Core coursework covers areas such as change leadership, organizational behavior, strategic thinking, and change adoption.
Concentration Areas
Project Management; Healthcare; Human Resources
#7. Quinnipiac University-Hamden, Connecticut
Master of Science in Organizational Leadership Online
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $17,730/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Points: 8
What’s Unique
Quinnipiac University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and has one of the best online business graduate programs in the country according to both the Princeton Review and U.S. News and World Report. The online master’s in Organizational Leadership from QU is designed to teach self-awareness and understanding of others. Students develop skills in emotional intelligence, strategic thinking, data-driven performance improvement, and cultural diversity which all support a healthy organization. The program is 100% online, with enough flexibility to focus on professional goals.
Concentration Areas
Health Care Management; Human Resource Leadership; Public Service/Nonprofit Leadership; Strategic Leadership
#6. Norwich University-Northfield, Vermont
Master of Science in Leadership Online
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $17,073/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Points: 8
What’s Unique
Norwich University features an online master’s in Leadership that can be completed in just 18 months of study. Students benefit from small classes which are capped at 15 students. Faculty provide students with personalized attention and guidance which fosters growth and professional development throughout the program. Students work on a Leadership Development Portfolio as a way to reflect on the lessons covered and personal weaknesses, strengths, and goals. While the 36 credit hour program is offered online, there is a one week residency at the end of the program which includes an award ceremony and graduation.
Concentration Areas
Organizational Leadership; Public Sector/Government/Military Leadership; Human Resources Leadership; Leading Change Management Consulting
#5. Creighton University-Omaha, Nebraska
Master of Science in Organizational Leadership Online
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $14,760/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Points: 8
What’s Unique
The master’s in Organizational Leadership online from Creighton University is an ideal choice for working professionals who want to advance their organization. Classes are offered online and instructors are willing to go the extra mile to personally interact with students and create a rich learning environment. Concentrations are available to help students focus in on specific areas of interest.
Concentration Areas
Business Leadership; Healthcare Leadership; Organizational Leadership
#4. Lewis University-Romeoville, Illinois
Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $14,310/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Points: 8
What’s Unique
Lewis University offers a master’s in Organizational Leadership online that is designed to provide students with leadership and people skills needed to manage successful organizations. With five different concentration areas, students can tailor the program to meet their professional needs. The Professional and Executive Coaching concentration is certified by the International Coach Federation. Not quite ready to commit to this top online accredited master’s in organizational leadership? Students can also work on an online certificate, with credits than can apply to the master’s program.
Concentration Areas
Professional and Executive Coaching; Organizational Management; Non-Profit Management; Training and Development; Higher Education Student Services
#3. City University of Seattle-Seattle, Washington
Master of Arts in Leadership
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $13,914/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Points: 8
What’s Unique
The City University of Seattle features a 100% online master’s in Leadership that can be completed in just 18 months. There are no GMAT or GRE score requirements for the program, students just need a four-year degree from an accredited university to apply. Students can expect to gain the skills needed to grow both organizations and people. Skills such as leadership ability, communication, change management, and emotional intelligence are highly valued by employers seeking to advance their business goals and objectives. Graduates have gone on to be successful in roles including Vice President, Director, General Manager, and Executive Director after earning this top online master’s in organizational leadership.
Concentration Areas
Business Administration or Nonprofit Leadership
#2. Pfeiffer University-Misenheimer, North Carolina
Master of Science in Leadership Online
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $11,520/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Points: 8
What’s Unique
Pfeiffer University features a top online master’s in Leadership offered through the division of arts and sciences. Ideal for working professionals, this two year program offers a concentration in either Human Resources or International Management. Students can also earn a 12 semester hour Graduate Certificate in Leadership. The curriculum is designed to support a diverse student population from areas of health care, public administration, education, and public safety. Core courses include Ethical Issues in Employment Law, Effective Leadership, Organizational Change Management, and Organizational Communications.
Concentration Areas
Human Resources; International Management
#1. Crown College-Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota
Online Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,910/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Points: 8
What’s Unique
Crown College developed a top online master’s in organizational leadership to prepare Christian leaders to address challenges in today’s business environment from a Christian perspective. Faculty are both highly educated and experienced in the business environment. Coursework utilizes hands on collaborative activities designed to mirror what students can expect to encounter in the real world. Tuition is among the cheapest in our list, making this program one of the most affordable accredited master’s in organizational leadership online.
Concentration Areas
Biblical Studies Emphasis; Christian Studies Emphasis; Church Development Emphasis; Community Development Emphasis; Disaster and Emergency Management Emphasis; Intercultural Ministries Emphasis; International Christian Education Emphasis; Non-Profit Leadership Emphasis; Pastoral Counseling Emphasis; Pastoral Leadership Emphasis; Social Science Research Emphasis; Spiritual Formation Emphasis
This concludes our ranking of top 25 Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs for 2018.