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What's the best MBA in organizational leadership program for you? Discover top-ranked online MBA programs and learn how to choose the best fit.
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An organizational leadership MBA can transform you into an innovative leader who guides organizations through complex transitions. You'll explore organizational behavior, motivation strategies, and change management and can pursue careers in management, consulting, and other leadership roles.
Earning an MBA can pay off. In its 2022 survey, the Graduate Management Admission Council, more than 85% of MBA graduates saw a positive return on investment.
Ready to get started? Check out our ranking of the best MBA in organizational leadership programs to find the right fit for your budget and career goals.
Popular Online Organizational Leadership Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Organizational Leadership MBA Programs
We use trusted sources like
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
OnlineMBA.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Best MBAs in Organizational Leadership
The University of Texas at Dallas
Richardson, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
A member of the prestigious University of Texas system, UT Dallas enrolls more than 29,000 students annually. UT Dallas's Naveen Jindal School of Management ranks among the top business schools in the country.
MBA with a Concentration in Leadership in Organizations
UT Dallas's online MBA offers a highly flexible format that serves working professionals. The program caters to candidates with significant business experience. MBA students at UT Dallas hold an average 7.9 years of professional employment.
The leadership concentration combines studies in psychology, sociology, and organizational behavior. Candidates can choose from courses, such as strategic human resource management and power and politics in organizations. Candidates also complete a capstone project in organizational behavior and coaching.
Students can complete UTD's MBA entirely online, with no campus visits required. Distance learners can complete in-person testing requirements at testing centers around the country.
UT Dallas's Affordability
UTD offers a guaranteed tuition rate plan that ensures students pay the same amount each semester for up to four years. The MBA program also offers a strong return on investment, enabling students to earn higher salaries after graduation.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges; Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Tuition: $57,105 total (in-state)/$95,052 total (out-of-state)
Required Credits: 53 credits
Program Length: 2-3 years
Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous)
Admissions
Process: Apply online: submit transcripts, test scores, resume, letters of recommendation, essays
GPA: No set GPA - average 3.6 for admitted students
Standardized Tests: GRE or GMAT
Cost: $50
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,442
Out-of-state
$38,168
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,874
Out-of-state
$27,796
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
29,543
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
19%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best MBAs in Organizational Leadership
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
A major public college in Tucson, UofA serves more than 49,000 students annually. Established in 1885, the college now offers more than 300 majors across campus and online learning programs.
MBA with a Concentration in Management and Organizations
UofA's Eller College of Management offers a flexible online MBA that serves students of all backgrounds. MBA candidates can pursue an accelerated format that lets them graduate in as little as 14 months. The program offers six annual start dates.
Candidates complete 28 credits of core MBA courses and 17 elective credits. The MBA core covers key topics, such as economics, accounting, and business statistics. The management and organizations concentration features courses in business law, groups and teams, and advanced negotiations. Students can also complete an optional global MBA experience in a foreign country.
UofA's Affordability
UofA offers merit-based scholarship opportunities to MBA candidates. Active military students and veterans can also receive a 10% tuition discount. The program's tuition expenses include all textbooks and other course materials.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission; Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Tuition: $1,250 per credit
Required Credits: 45 credits
Program Length: 14-48 months
Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous)
Admissions
Process: Apply online: submit transcripts, test scores, resume, letters of recommendation, essay
Standardized Tests: GRE or GMAT
Cost: $90
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,990
Out-of-state
$33,273
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,938
Out-of-state
$32,065
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
44,577
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best MBAs in Organizational Leadership
Johnson & Wales University-Online
Providence, RI
4 years
Online
A private college based in Providence, Rhode Island, JWU also operates a second campus in Charlotte, North Carolina. The school's online program serves students across the country. JWU offers internship opportunities in 46 U.S. states and 33 foreign countries.
MBA in Organizational Leadership
JWU's fully online MBA in organizational leadership combines academic theory and hands-on business training, preparing students to lead and manage change in organizations. The program highlights the use of research to inform organizational practices. MBA candidates also gain advanced communication and decision-making tools.
The program features both an MBA core and a specialized organizational leadership section. Typical courses include corporate social responsibility, project management, and women and leadership in society.
The MBA ends with a career capstone course in business policy and strategy. Drawing on overall program learning, this course challenges students to identify, create, and manage competitive advantage within businesses.
JWU's Affordability
More than 90% of JWU degree candidates receive grants or scholarships from the college. The school also pairs each student with a dedicated financial planner who can help with decisions about financial aid options.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education; Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Tuition: $817 per credit
Required Credits: 36-42 credits
Program Length: Two years
Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous)
Admissions
Process: Apply online: submit transcripts, resume, letters of recommendation, essay
GPA: 2.85 GPA
Standardized Tests: Not required
Cost: Free
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,365
Out-of-state
$13,365
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,734
Out-of-state
$13,734
Retention Rate
25%
Acceptance Rate
41%
Students Enrolled
1,752
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#4 Best MBAs in Organizational Leadership
Cairn University-Langhorne
Langhorne, PA
4 years
Online + Campus
A private Christian college based in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, Cairn enrolls around 1,500 students each year. The school operates according to biblical principles and only enrolls students who practice the Christian faith.
MBA
Cairn's online MBA focuses on broad business skills and specialized topics in organizational leadership. Candidates complete courses, including operations management, strategic management, and foundations of organizational leadership. The program offers a one-year fully online option and a two-year hybrid option.
All MBA candidates must also complete six credits of Bible and theology courses. This section comprises two courses in overview of Christian theology and theology of business and leadership. Students who hold undergraduate theology credits may be able to place out of these course requirements.
Cairn recognizes the experience of working professionals, and students may be able to receive up to six credits for relevant prior business learning.
Cairn's Affordability
Cairn offers many options to help MBA candidates pay for school, including grants, scholarships, and tuition discounts. About 97% of applicants receive some type of financial aid. Accelerated enrollment can also help students finish their degree faster and more affordably.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education; International Accreditation Council for Business Education
Tuition: $400 per credit
Required Credits: 36 credits
Program Length: 1-2 years
Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous), hybrid (online and on campus)
Admissions
Process: Apply online: submit personal essay and transcripts
GPA: 2.5 minimum
Standardized Tests: Not required
Cost: $25
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$28,328
Out-of-state
$28,328
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,762
Out-of-state
$12,762
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
1,221
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
23%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#5 Best MBAs in Organizational Leadership
Mercy College
Dobbs Ferry, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
Based in Dobbs Ferry, New York, Mercy also operates campuses in Manhattan and the Bronx. While historically associated with the Catholic Church, the school is nonsectarian and enrolls students of all backgrounds
MBA with a Concentration in Organizational Leadership
Mercy's MBA with a concentration in organizational leadership primarily serves working students, offering a highly flexible course schedule. Candidates can complete their coursework entirely online or in a hybrid format at any of the school's three campuses. The program offers four start dates throughout the year, with new class sessions beginning about every three months.
Mercy admits both business and non-business majors. Candidates without a business background participate in the school's TURBO Flex Program, which builds foundational business knowledge through a one-month intensive session. The TURBO Flex Program is free and offered before the start of each semester.
Mercy's Affordability
Mercy automatically considers all admitted MBA students for graduate business scholarships. Candidates with an undergraduate GPA above 3.5 can receive an award of up to $6,000. The school also offers several other scholarship opportunities.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $994 per credit
Required Credits: 36 credits
Program Length: 1-2 years
Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous), hybrid (online and on campus)
Admissions
Process: Apply online: submit transcripts, resume
GPA: 3.0 recommended
Standardized Tests: GMAT Optional
Cost: $40
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$18,934
Out-of-state
$18,934
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,146
Out-of-state
$16,146
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
10,557
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
36%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
How We Choose Programs
At OnlineMBA.com, we rely on reputable sources to rank the best MBA programs. We use trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to find standout programs. We consider four metrics: affordability, reputation, academics, and program availability.
This list has not been updated for 2024. Visit our rankings methodology page to learn more about how we rank programs.
Why Get an Organizational Leadership MBA Degree?
Earning Potential
An MBA can open doors to management-level careers and increase your earning potential. While corporate recruiters projected a starting salary of under $70,000 for candidates with a bachelor's degree, MBA graduates can expect a median starting salary of $120,000, according to the 2024 GMAC corporate recruiters survey.
Demand for MBAs
MBA graduates benefit from strong demand, with many organizations saying they plan to hire MBAs in the coming year. Only 8% of global recruiters do not plan to hire MBA grads in 2024, as reported in the GMAC corporate recruiters survey. In contrast, 19% do not plan to hire master's in management grads. Recruiters report higher demand for MBAs than other master's in business graduates.
Specialized Skills
An organizational leadership concentration builds specialized skills in workforce development, change management, and strategic planning. These skills can help you advance in your current field or move into a new career.
What to Expect From an Organizational Leadership MBA Degree
An organizational leadership MBA strengthens expertise in change management, organizational development, and strategic leadership. During your MBA program, you'll explore organizational behavior to learn how to motivate teams and reach organizational goals. MBA students also develop foundational data analysis, decision-making, and communications abilities.
Depending on your program, you might choose electives to customize your degree based on your interests or professional goals. You can gain real-world experience through an internship or capstone project. Most MBA programs take around two years, but you can also choose an accelerated program to graduate in less time.
Online learners should always choose an accredited program to earn their MBA. Accredited business schools meet high standards for quality, and your credits will more likely transfer to other institutions.
Delivery Format and Program Length
MBA programs vary in their delivery method, format, and pace. Here are some popular options:
Online vs. in-person vs. hybrid: You can earn your MBA through a fully online format, a fully in-person format, or a hybrid blend of online and on-campus courses. When choosing the delivery format, consider your schedule and learning style.
Asynchronous vs. synchronous: In online MBA programs, you'll either take courses asynchronously or synchronously. An asynchronous course does not require set meeting times, giving you the most flexibility, while synchronous classes hold live sessions.
Accelerated: Many MBA programs offer accelerated options where you can finish your degree in as little as 12 months. However, an accelerated program means more intensive study, so make sure you can commit to the time requirement.
Should You Get an Organizational Leadership MBA or a General MBA?
Is an organizational leadership or general MBA a better fit for you? Both tracks offer similar core courses in business, yet the organizational leadership concentration provides focused coursework for opportunities in leadership and development.
Both programs cover leadership theory and strategic management. However, an organizational leadership MBA will include additional coursework on organizational development, team building, and motivating employees to reach organizational goals.
By comparing the primary focus, common courses, and career paths with these two options, you can find the right fit for your interests and career goals.
Comparing Organizational Leadership MBAs and General MBAs
Key Factor
Organizational Leadership MBA
General MBA
Primary Focus
Leadership in team building, motivational theory, and organizational goals
Management skills in core areas of business
Length
1-2 years
1-2 years
Common Classes
Organizational behavior; strategic leadership; organizational development
The admissions process for MBA programs can be competitive. How can you stand out from other applicants? You must showcase your strengths and explain your educational and career goals.
Most MBA programs require a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA, standardized test scores on the GMAT or GRE, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. You may also need to meet professional experience recommendations or requirements.
Some MBA programs are now test-optional. If your program requires standardized test scores, check out our GMAT and GRE study guide to boost your score.
You'll complete core business classes and advanced organizational leadership courses during your organizational leadership MBA. Many programs also allow you to customize your degree with electives. And you'll likely complete a final project or capstone. While the specific curriculum depends on the business school, many programs incorporate the following courses:
Managerial Decision-Making: Strengthen your decision-making and business management abilities through case studies, management theory, and real-world assignments. This course bridges theoretical leadership knowledge with the applied skills necessary to evaluate options and make informed decisions.
Strategic Management: Learn how to develop and manage organizational strategies, including setting goals, implementing strategies, and evaluating their effectiveness. MBA students evaluate case studies to develop their strategic abilities. The course also covers change management when implementing organizational systems.
Organizational Behavior: This course explores human behavior in the workforce, with an emphasis on applied knowledge. MBA students examine conflict resolution approaches, team motivation, and group dynamics to strengthen their communication and leadership skills. Other topics may include work-life balance, development management, and human resources management.
Organizational Leadership Capstone: In an organizational leadership capstone course, MBA students identify a real-world issue and develop a project plan to solve it. They research factors influencing the implementation of the plan and develop a report on the strategic objectives and measurable objectives in their plan.
How Much Do Organizational Leadership MBA Programs Cost?
MBAs are among the most expensive graduate degrees. Many of the priciest programs can cost over $100,000 in tuition. However, top-ranked MBAs can also cost under $30,000.
Several factors influence price, including in-state tuition discounts, credit requirements, and delivery format.
You can use financial aid to help pay for your organizational leadership MBA. By choosing an accredited institution, you'll qualify for federal student aid and more state and institutional support, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Learn more about your financing options below.
An organizational leadership MBA prepares graduates for diverse roles across organizations, particularly in strategic and organizational administrative roles. For example, MBAs can pursue opportunities in training and development, consulting, or operations management.
The strong leadership skills developed during an MBA in organizational leadership can also lead to diverse roles in corporations, government agencies and nonprofit organizations. With experience, managers can move into executive roles.
Human Resources Manager
HR managers evaluate an organization's workforce needs and recommend strategies to recruit and retain employees. They also work closely with executives on the organization's strategic planning and develop programs that motivate employees. Managers specialize in several areas within HR, including training and development, compensation and benefits, and dispute resolution.
Management consultants, also called management analysts, evaluate an organization's systems and processes to recommend strategies that improve efficiency, increase retention, and motivate employees. An MBA in organizational leadership positions management consultants to determine personnel needs, develop alternative practices, and recommend organizational changes.
Operations managers oversee daily operations, including policy development, planning, and project management responsibilities. Experience in organizational leadership prepares operations managers to effectively implement workforce management strategies and develop policies to improve efficiency. With experience, operations managers may move into roles such as chief executive officer.
Consider cost, curriculum, and admissions requirements when choosing a quality MBA program. But what other factors should you weigh when choosing your program and concentration?
Location: Even with an online program, location can matter. Attending business school in your local area can mean more opportunities for networking, internships, and in-state tuition discounts.
Program composition: Many business schools offer multiple concentrations. When deciding if the organizational leadership concentration is the best fit, consider asking about the number of students in the concentration and job placements after graduation.
Internship opportunities: An MBA internship can jump-start your career search and add valuable contacts to your professional network. For an online MBA, ask about internship support and whether the program helps you with placements.
Career services: Most prospective MBA students pursue the degree to advance their careers. So research the career services at different business schools to see which offers the best launchpad for your career.
Common Questions About Organizational Leadership MBA Degrees
Which MBA specialization is best for leadership?
An MBA specialization in organizational leadership, strategic leadership, or executive management provides the best foundation for leadership roles. These specializations emphasize applied leadership techniques, strategic management, and organizational behavior.
Is organizational leadership a useful degree?
Yes, a degree in organizational leadership can build the knowledge and skills required for human resources, workforce development, or operations management roles. During an organizational leadership degree, you'll explore change management, strategic decision-making, and team motivation topics.
Is a master's in organizational leadership an MBA?
At the graduate level, you can earn a master's in organizational leadership or an MBA in organizational leadership. Both advanced degrees emphasize strategic management, managerial decision-making, and workforce planning.
How much can you make with an MBA in organizational leadership?
The average base salary for an MBA in organizational leadership was $90,000 in February 2024, according to Payscale data. Earning potential varies widely depending on job title, industry, and experience.
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