In this article, we feature the top-ranked and most affordable online master's in organizational leadership degree programs.
Unlike a traditional MBA program, which focuses on classical business management approaches and theories, an online master's in organizational leadership degree program emphasizes personal and professional leadership techniques. Students hone their leadership skills and learn how to manage a team, work with people, and detect the emotional intelligence of employees in order to help them reach their full creative and professional potentials. An online organizational leadership master's degree can be an alternative to the traditional MBA.
Featured Online Programs
Methodology
We reviewed 103 accredited colleges and universities that offered an online master's in organizational leadership, master's in organizational development and leadership, master's in leadership, or closely related program. We selected institutions with rankings from at least one major publication like Forbes magazine or U.S. News and World Report. We then selected the most affordable institutions based on recent graduate tuition/fees listed by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator. Schools are listed in order of affordability.
Below are the resulting selections for the 29 most affordable top-ranked online master's in organizational leadership degree programs.
#29 – Robert Morris University
Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
Moon Township, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $23,700
Robert Morris University offers an online master's in organizational leadership program that is designed for working adults who desire a flexible learning option to complete their graduate degree. All courses are delivered online and taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. These courses include conflict resolution, critical thinking and problem solving, history and theory of leadership, leadership and ethics, and organizational leadership capstone. Robert Morris is a ranked and accredited institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 66th best regional university in the North. Several of the school's business programs, including organizational leadership, rank among the top master's programs in the country.
#28 – Pennsylvania State University World Campus
Online Master of Professional Studies in Organization Development and Change
University Park, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,832
Pennsylvania State University's World Campus offers an online organizational leadership master's program that is designed to equip individuals with effective management skills and knowledge to lead any organization. The 33-credit program offers flexible online courses that are taught by the same university professors who teach in the classroom. Online classes include appreciative inquiry, assessing data and organizational diagnosis, facilitating groups and teams, process consultation in organization development, and project management for professionals. A field-based project for workforce development professionals is also required. The project allows students to receive training within an organization by carrying out problem assessments, analysis, and resolutions. Penn State is ranked as the 47th best national university in the country by major publications like U.S. News and World Report.
#27 – Norwich University
Online Master's in Leadership
Northfield, Vermont
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,675
For those looking for a general online master's in organizational leadership program, Norwich University provides an accredited option. The online master's in leadership program is designed for busy and working adults with a desire to gain specialized knowledge and skills that may be applied in any organization. The goal of the program is to prepare students to lead in their place of employment or desired location. Coursework is delivered online and may be completed in 18 months. Several concentration options are available, including human resources leadership, public sector leadership, and organizational leadership. Norwich is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 76th best regional university in the North.
#26 – Saint Louis University
Online Master's in Leadership and Organizational Development
St. Louis, Missouri
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,306
Saint Louis University offers an accredited online organizational leadership master's degree program that is specifically designed for busy professionals who require the convenience and flexibility that an online graduate program offers. All classes are taught online and include foundation, leadership development, and capstone courses. These classes may include applied research methods, contemporary issues in leadership, contemporary organizational leadership, professional leadership development, and talent management and development. St. Louis University is nationally ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks the school as the 96th best national university in the country.
#25 – Southern New Hampshire University
Online MS in Organizational Leadership
Manchester, New Hampshire
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,810
The accredited online master's in organizational leadership degree program at Southern New Hampshire University is designed to equip students with the leadership and management skills needed to lead companies and organizations through changes and challenges. Students explore contemporary topics through online classes and discussion, forging relationships with peers and instructors. Small class sizes and access to course materials at all hours of the day help facilitate learning. Depending on the student's schedule and goals, the degree can be completed in just 15 months by taking two courses per 10-week term. Southern New Hampshire University is ranked and accredited. In fact, U.S. News and World Report lists the school as the #1 most innovative school and the 131st best regional university in the North.
#24 – Rosemont College
Online Master's in Strategic Leadership
Rosemont, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,325
Rosemont College offers an online organizational leadership master's that is designed for aspiring leaders who want to be at the forefront of their organization's change. The online strategic leadership master's program offers various courses taught by the school's distinguished and experienced instructors. These classes include decision-making methods, economics in the workplace, information systems strategy, leadership fundamentals – ethical leadership and values-driven organizations, and organizational psychology and behavior. Rosemont College is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges lists the school as the 116th best regional university in the North.
#23 – Upper Iowa University
Online MBA in Organizational Development
Fayette, Iowa
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,964
Upper Iowa University offers an accredited online MBA with organizational development emphasis, which is designed for individuals interested in pursuing an online master's in organizational leadership. The degree program is entirely online. Courses are taught by the same university professors who instruct on the main campus. These classes include organizational culture, organizational development, organizational diagnosis and intervention, team building techniques, and training and development. All online MBA students are also required to take a research seminar designed to prepare them for a research project. Upper Iowa is a regionally ranked institution. In fact, major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school as a best regional university in the Midwest.
#22 – Quinnipiac University
Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
Hamden, Connecticut
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,874
Quinnipiac University offers an online organizational leadership degree program designed for busy and working professionals who want to take their leadership skills to the next level. The program is entirely online and requires a total of 33 credits. Fall, spring, and summer start dates are available to provide added flexibility. There are also four available study tracks so that students may hone their skills in a particular area of interest. These areas of emphasis include healthcare management, human resource leadership, public service and nonprofit leadership, and strategic leadership. Required online courses, no matter the concentration area, include ethics and governance, leadership consulting, performance management, and project management. Quinnipiac University is a regionally ranked institution by major publications. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 11th best regional university in the North.
#21 – Northcentral University
Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
Prescott Valley, Arizona
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,171
Northcentral University offers an online organizational leadership degree program that is focused on equipping leaders for any given profession. The program is offered entirely online and includes weekly courses with flexible start times to fit all schedules. All classes are taught by doctoral faculty who deliver instruction on campus. Students may also choose from several degree specializations, including criminal justice, healthcare administration, nonprofit management, project management, and public administration. An accelerated degree option is also available, which allows students to complete the online program in just 12 months. Northcentral University is accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission and recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council on Higher Education Accreditation.
#20 – Cleary University
Online MBA in Global Leadership
Howell, Michigan
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,200
For those interested in pursuing an online master's in organizational development and leadership or related degree program, Cleary University offers an accredited option. The online MBA in global leadership is a 33-credit program designed for busy adults who are interested in becoming leaders within their global organizations. Courses may be completed entirely online and are taught by doctoral faculty with years of experience in business and leadership. Online classes include financial and management accounting, law and ethics, management and organizational leadership, managerial economics, strategic management, and survey of global leadership. The program may be completed in just 22 months.
#19 – Michigan State University
Online Master's in Management, Strategy and Leadership
East Lansing, Michigan
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,122
Michigan State University offers a 20-month online organizational leadership degree program that is designed for hardworking and independent students who want the flexibility that an online graduate program offers. All classes are delivered online and taught by university professors with experience specific to the field. Students are required to complete 15 five-week courses in an accelerated time period, which covers more material than many similar online programs. Also, the program is AACSB-accredited and highly ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks the online graduate business programs (excluding the MBA and including the MS in strategy and leadership) #26 in the country.
#18 – Saint Joseph's University
Online Master's in Organization Development and Leadership
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,840
Saint Joseph's University offers an accredited online master's in organizational development and leadership program that is designed for working and busy professionals. All classes are delivered online with the exception of a required four-day residency at the Philadelphia campus. Online courses include creative problem solving, leading teams, organizational change and culture, organizational leadership, research design and evaluation, and strategic leadership – ethics and values. St. Joseph's University and its programs are ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks the school as the 15th best regional university in the North and its business programs #93.
#17 – Gonzaga University
Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
Spokane, Washington
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,090
Gonzaga University offers one of the most recognized online organizational leadership master's degree programs in the country. Following the school's Jesuit tradition of "people for others," the program offers four concentrations that allow students to focus on a specific area of interest that meets personal and career goals. These areas of concentration include global leader and servant leader. All classes are delivered online and taught by the same university professors who teach on-campus. Courses include communication and leadership ethics, foundations of leadership, organizational behavior and theory, and transforming leadership. Gonzaga is a regionally ranked institution. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school #4 in the country for best regional universities. The school is also recognized as a best value school – ranked #4 in the most recent publication of Best Colleges.
#16 – Lewis University
Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
Romeoville, Illinois
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,410
Interested in an affordable online master's in organizational development and leadership degree program? Lewis University offers an online master's in organizational leadership with five unique areas of concentration. Students may hone their skills and interests by choosing one of the concentration areas: Higher education student services, not-for-profit management, organizational leadership coaching, organizational management, and training and development. All classes are delivered online and taught by the same instructors who teach on campus. Lewis University is accredited and ranked by major publications. In fact, U.S. News ranks the school as the 28th best regional university in the Midwest and the 24th best college for veterans.
#15 – Colorado Technical University
Online Master's in Management – Organizational Leadership and Change
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,731
Colorado Technical University's online master's in organizational leadership degree program is an online, non-MBA graduate business degree that focuses on management and organizational leadership. All classes are delivered online and taught by experienced professors. Online courses include applied managerial marketing, foundation of organizational design, introduction to organizational leadership and change, project management processes in organizations, and strategic change management. The program is specifically designed for busy and working professionals who desire the flexibility that an online program offers. Colorado Tech is accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a best national university.
#14 – Walden University
Online Master's in Leadership
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,609
Walden University offers an online MS in leadership degree program that is designed for individuals interested in an online master's in organizational leadership. The program is highly flexible with three optional specializations. Depending on interests and career goals, students may specialize in human resource leadership, leader development, or a self-designed option. All classes are delivered online and include: framing and analyzing problems – research strategies for leaders, leadership in a global landscape, personal leadership – mentoring and coaching, and the character of leadership. Walden is accredited, and in recent years has been ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report.
#13 – California Baptist University
Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
Riverside, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,942
The online organizational leadership degree from California Baptist University is designed for working professionals who want to earn a master's degree entirely online. According to the program website, graduates are prepared for executive leadership and management positions in today's business organizations. The program is offered at an accelerated pace and can be completed in just 12 months. Courses are delivered entirely online and include conflict resolutions and negotiations, foundations of organizational leadership, leading organizational change, organizational communication, and strategic management. California Baptist University is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 39th best regional university in the West.
#12 – Central Michigan University
Online Master's in Administration
Mount Pleasant, Michigan
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,770
Central Michigan University offers a master's in administration (MSA) degree with a leadership concentration option. The available concentration is designed for those interested in an online organizational leadership master's program. All courses are delivered online and include foundations of research methods in administration, organizational dynamics and human behavior, strategic leadership, and strategic planning for the administrator. Special topics courses and internship options are also available for credits. Central Michigan University is accredited and nationally ranked. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 194th best national university and the 154th best college for veterans.
#11 – Brandman University
Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
Irvine, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,220
For those interested in an online master's in organizational development and leadership or related degree program, Brandman University has an option suited for working professionals and busy adults. The online master's in organizational leadership is an accelerated program that provides flexible learning options through online courses. These courses include democracy, ethics, and leadership; foundations of organizational leadership; leadership and team development; leading organizational change; organizational research; and democracy, ethics, and leadership. Brandman is accredited and ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the school's online graduate business programs, which do not include the MBA but do include the organizational leadership degree, rank #59 in the nation.
#10 – National University
Online Master of Science in Organizational Leadership
La Jolla, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,962
National University's online organizational leadership degree programs include the online master's in organizational leadership. This program is designed for working individuals and busy adults who require the flexibility that an online program offers. All classes are delivered online and include analysis and decision making, conflict and power dynamics, consulting and assessments, developing groups and teams, ethics and classic theories, leadership research, leading change and adaptation, world view and adult development. The program also offers a specialization in community development in which students complete four courses specific to the area of emphasis. National University is accredited and has earned previous rankings from U.S. News and World Report as a best regional university.
#9 – Western Kentucky University
Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
Bowling Green, Kentucky
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,860
One of the top online master's in organizational development and leadership degree programs is offered at Western Kentucky University. The program allows students to focus on an area of specialization so that they may earn a graduate certificate in their chosen interest while moving toward their master's degree. All classes are delivered online and include effective leadership studies, elements of public administration, global leadership communication, leadership in global contexts, methods of social research, and special topics in leadership. Western Kentucky is an accredited and ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 31st best regional university in the South.
#8 – Regis University
Online Master's in Organization Leadership – Leadership and Management
Denver, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,800
Regis University offers an online master's in organizational leadership that is designed to provide students with strategic perspective as they explore leadership and management practices in various organizations. While the majority of students specialize in leadership and management, emphasis may be paired with other specializations like enterprise resource leadership and planning, human resource management and leadership, and project and leadership management. Classes are delivered online and include business intelligence and analytics, leading in a new era, organizational culture and design, and strategic management and financial reports analysis. Regis is a regionally ranked and accredited institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 28th best regional university in the West.
#7 – Colorado State University
Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
Greenwood Village, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,000
Colorado State University offers an accredited online master's in organizational leadership degree program designed to equip students for upper-level management positions. Through online instruction, students gain knowledge in various areas of leadership and management topics. Online courses include critical evaluation of research and theory, global economics, managerial accounting, principles of finance, and strategic planning and innovation. A total of 39 credits are required for completion of the degree. Also, students participate in an organizational leadership internship to gain practical experience within specific fields. Colorado State University has earned rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report.
#6 – University of Wisconsin
Online Master's in Organizational Change Leadership
Platteville, Wisconsin
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,710
One of our top picks for online organizational leadership master's degree programs is the University of Wisconsin. The school offers an online master's in organizational change leadership that requires 30 credits to complete. The program is designed to prepare students for leadership roles as change managers or consultants within all types of organizations. Classes are delivered online and taught by the same university professors who teach on campus. These courses include business analytics, intercultural change leadership, introduction to organizational change leadership – theory and practice, organizational communication, and strategic thinking and change. There is no GRE or GMAT requirement for admission into the program. University of Wisconsin is accredited and ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report.
#5 – University of South Dakota
Online Master's in Administration
Vermillion, South Dakota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,557
Whether you're looking for an online organizational leadership master's or a graduate-level program in administration, University of South Dakota provides options. The program is delivered entirely online, with flexible classes and access to curriculum at all hours of the day. Also, seven areas of specialization are offered for those with specific career goals and interests in mind. Some of the specialization areas include criminal justice studies, health services administration, and organizational leadership. Courses are delivered 100% online and include administrative law and government, administration thought and ethics, managerial communications, and professional writing for administration. The university is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges lists USD as the 180th best national university and the 100th top public school.
#4 – Campbellsville University
Online Master's in Management and Leadership
Campbellsville, Kentucky
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,058
Campbellsville University's online organizational leadership master's degree program focuses on equipping students for upper level management positions. The flexible online format is designed to help working adults fit classes into an already busy schedule. Courses are delivered entirely online and include business ethics, leadership, managerial communication, managing diversity, organization theory, negotiation and conflict management, and team management. The program requires 30 credit hours of study and may be completed within one year, although completion time may vary. Campbellsville is an accredited and regionally ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 84th best regional university in the South.
#3 – St. Mary's University of Minnesota
Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
Winona, Minnesota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,884
The accredited online organizational leadership degree program offered at St. Mary's University of Minnesota is a master's degree designed for working adults and professionals. The 36-credit master's degree may be completed in just 20 months, with courses taught and delivered entirely online. Students take a variety of courses that explore contemporary and global topics in leadership. Some of the courses include collaboration and teambuilding, communication strategies, economic and political contexts, organization change and development, strategy and innovation, and talent management. St. Mary's University is accredited and ranked as a national university. In fact, major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school as the 180th best national university in the country.
#2 – Charleston Southern University
Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
Charleston, South Carolina
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,540
Charleston Southern University offers an online organizational leadership master's degree program that is designed for working professionals with busy schedules. Students have the option of taking classes entirely online or in a blended format. All online courses are taught by university professors who teach full-time at the university's School of Business. The program requires 33 credit hours with classes delivered on an accelerated basis. This means that students have the option of completing courses in an accelerated eight-week format. The university is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges lists the school as the 93rd best regional university in the South.
#1 – Regent University
Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $1,167
Regent University offers an accredited online master's in organizational leadership program with over a dozen available concentrations. Concentrations include healthcare management, international organizations, leadership coaching, organizational business analytics, and organizational communication. The 33-credit program is offered as a flexible online graduate degree with no on-campus residency requirement. All classes are delivered online and include information research and resources, organizational communication, organizational development, and strategic thinking – planning and organizational change. Regent is a nationally ranked institution by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. RU is our #1 pick for the most affordable top-ranked online master's in organizational leadership degree programs for 2016-2017.
By BMD Staff
October 2016