In this article, we profile the top 30 most affordable online master’s in organizational leadership programs.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs in management and leadership increased six percent over the last few years. The increase means that more jobs are available. A master’s in organizational leadership online degree opens the door to careers in business and other fields where organizational management is an important factor.
Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Organizational Leadership Online Programs Methodology
We looked at 142 colleges and universities listed by the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offered at least one master’s in organizational leadership online program. We narrowed our original pool of schools by applying certain criteria. Criteria included national or regional accreditation, school or program rankings with at least one major publication like U.S. News and World Report, and affordable graduate tuition and fees. We then listed our selected schools according to raw affordability.
Below is our list of the top 30 most affordable online master’s in organizational leadership programs.
#30 – George Washington University
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership and Learning
Washington, District of Columbia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $29,840
George Washington University offers a master’s in organizational leadership online for individuals seeking to increase their knowledge and practice of time-tested leadership principles that prove effective in a variety of contexts. The George Washington program is application-based, meaning students learn how to apply leadership skills in the work place. Courses include assessing the impact of organizational change using qualitative and quantitative methods, current issues in organizational leadership, design of adult learning interventions, and increasing the capacity to learn. Admission requirements include resume, application, statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, and transcripts. GWU is ranked #63 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#29 – Northeastern University
Online Master’s in Leadership
Boston, Massachusetts
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $23,688
Northeastern University offers an online master’s in organizational leadership designed to develop proven leaders ready to take on challenges faced by today’s individuals, departments, and organizations. The program offers courses such as developing organizational leadership, developing your leadership capability, innovation and organization transformation, and strategy development and implementation. The program is accredited by the Project Management Institute’s Global Accreditation Center. Students can choose from a wide variety of concentration areas to fit their career needs such as health management, human resources management, leading and managing technical projects, nonprofit management, organizational communication, project management, and sport and social change. Northeastern is ranked #44 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#28 – Florida Institute of Technology
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Melbourne, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $22,588
Florida Institute of Technology offers one of the most affordable online organizational leadership programs available for working adults seeking the flexibility of an online degree. The program consists of 33 credits, including courses such as analytics and research in organizational science, ethics in leadership and corporate social responsibility, leadership in a global context, and organizational change and change leadership. Admission requirements include bachelor’s degree, resume, two letters of recommendation, statement of intent, and transcripts. The committee also considers undergraduate GPA and professional work experience. The program’s curriculum is designed to develop and enhance leadership across a broad spectrum of industries and occupations. FIT is ranked #177 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#27 – Saint Louis University
Online Master’s in Leadership and Organizational Development
Saint Louis, Missouri
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,346
Saint Louis University offers an online master’s in organizational leadership designed for the hands-on leader seeking project-based learning where practical application of leadership skills and theory are utilized to solve complex interpersonal and organizational issues. The program can be completed entirely online in just 2.5 years with a course load of one class per 8-week semester. Admission requirements include a 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA, part-time employment with minimum of three years professional work experience, certain undergraduate courses, transcripts, resume, and 500-word personal statement. SLU is ranked #106 in national universities by U.S News and World Report.
#26 – Quinnipiac University
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Hamden, Connecticut
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,900
Quinnipiac University’s online master’s in organizational leadership is designed for working adults seeking a rigorous graduate degree while maintaining their current obligations. The program has no residency requirement and can be finished entirely online. Students can choose from a number of concentration areas such as health care management, human resources management, public service/non-profit leadership, and strategic leadership. Quinnipiac is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. The School of Business is accredited by the Association for the Advancement of College and Schools of Business (AACSB). Quinnipiac University is ranked #13 in regional colleges North by U.S. News and World Report.
#25 – Creighton University
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Omaha, Nebraska
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,964
Creighton University offers a master’s in organizational leadership online developed for current and aspiring leaders seeking a graduate degree with flexible coursework from a top ranked institution. The 36-credit program is delivered through Creighton’s Department of Interdisciplinary Studies by a diverse set of faculty with expertise in backgrounds such as healthcare, business, education, law, arts, and sciences. Core classes may include approaches to human capital, communicating and leading across cultures, innovation and adaptive change, and leadership theory application and reflection. Students can earn graduate certificates in health care ethics, health care management, lifestyle medicine, and negotiation and conflict resolution. Creighton is ranked #1 in regional universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.
#24 – Gonzaga University
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Spokane, Washington
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,845
One alternative to an online MBA in organizational leadership is a master’s degree in the same discipline. Gonzaga University offers such a program for students seeking to increase their leadership acumen no matter where they are in their career. The program assists students in developing important leadership skills and traits including motivating teams, negotiating conflict, effectively communicating, developing strategic plans, and more. The program offers several concentration options such as change leadership, global leadership, servant leadership, and strategic and organizational communication. Moreover, students can learn real-world leadership skills by studying abroad or domestically in places like Belgium, Italy, Colombia, or at the Gonzaga campus in Spokane, Washington. GU is ranked #4 in regional universities West by U.S. News and World Report.
#23 – Medaille College
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Buffalo, New York
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,574
Medaille College offers one of the most affordable online organizational leadership programs accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE). Students are required to complete 30 credits, which can be done in just one year. Students can take anywhere from 1-4 courses per seven-week term as their schedule allows. Admission requirements include application, resume, and transcripts. The program does not require test scores as part of the application process. Interested students are encouraged to meet with program personnel to answer any questions. Meetings may take place at the Buffalo, NY campus or via Skype. Medaille College is ranked #142 in regional universities North by U.S. News and World Report.
#22 – Mercy College
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Dobbs Ferry, New York
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,056
Mercy College offers an affordable online MBA in organizational leadership focusing on the development of leadership skills and aptitude across a variety of contexts and career paths. The curriculum includes both individual and group assignments where students tackle complex issues and problems that put their learning and leadership to the test. Students working in a corporate environment can customize their coursework and curriculum, which allows them to immediately put their skills to the test in their current workplace. Classes include aligning meaning and purpose, becoming a transformational leader, building a sustainable organization, implementing change initiative, practicing ethical leadership, and professional development.
#21 – Fresno Pacific University
Online Master’s in Leadership and Organizational Studies
Fresno, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,039
Fresno Pacific University’s online MBA in organizational leadership is an action-oriented program designed to empower its students to become effective leaders and change agents. The program’s curriculum blends theory and application, providing students with the right balance of knowledge and skill needed to effectively lead today’s complex teams and organizations. The 36-credit program is delivered online and has an average completion time of 20 months. Admission requirements include bachelor’s degree, official transcripts, statement of intent, one professional reference, minimum GPA of 3.0, and program interview. Courses may include change and transformation strategies, developing proposals for change, financial decision-making, and leadership in different contexts. FPU is ranked #39 in regional universities West by U.S. News and World Report.
#20 – National University
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
La Jolla, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,976
National University offers a reasonably priced online master’s in organizational leadership that can be completed in just 12-14 months with no residency requirement. The program is housed within the School of Business and Management. Courses last four weeks and may include analysis and decision-making, conflict and power dynamics, developing groups and teams, and ethics and classic theories. The program is an excellent choice for current or aspiring leaders from a variety of backgrounds. Students come from a wide variety of occupational and academic backgrounds and go on to assume leadership positions in some of the top organizations in the country and the world.
#19 – Lewis University
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Romeoville, Illinois
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,460
Lewis University’s online master’s in organizational leadership seeks to develop its graduates into the “go-to person” within an organization. The genesis of each course is to enhance and develop leadership skills necessary to increase the effectiveness of the individuals and organizations in which they work. Students can choose from five concentrations that fit their career needs. The concentrations include organizational management, non-profit management, training and development, and higher education/student services. Courses include assessing leadership skills, building a coaching practice, organizational cultures and systems, and systems and services in higher education. Lewis University is ranked #20 in regional universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.
#18 – Cornerstone University
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,726
Cornerstone University’s affordable online master’s in organizational leadership focuses on leadership development while integrating Christian values into its curriculum. The program is housed within the School of Adult and Graduate Studies and run by the Business Department. The program can be completed in 19-20 months and is delivered fully online. Admission requirements include official transcripts, minimum 2.7 GPA with one or more years of work experience, 3.0 minimum GPA with no professional work experience, current resume, and two letters of recommendation. Courses may include budgeting and financial resource management, human resources and diversity, and leadership and employee development. Cornerstone is ranked #106 in regional universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.
#17 – Colorado Christian University
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Lakewood, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,351
Colorado Christian University’s master’s in organizational leadership online is an excellent choice for busy working adults seeking to develop and enhance their leadership capacity. The program focuses on challenging issues faced by today’s leaders. Issues such as environmental impact, social injustice, human rights, and more are all tackled within the context of effective organizational leadership. Student can transfer up to six credits towards the 36-credit degree. Courses are typically five weeks in length. The program can be completed in just under two years. Featured courses include constitutional law, information systems: social technology and public policy, leading in government and non-profit organizations, and organizational leadership. CCU is ranked #96 in regional universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.
#16 – University of Colorado
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Boulder, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,998
The University of Colorado offers an online MBA in organizational leadership that blends together coursework from business, communication, and the social sciences to enhance and develop dynamic leaders capable of leading in today’s challenging environment. The program is entirely online and features asynchronous learning for maximum student flexibility. The program offers five distinct tracks such as strategic leadership, human resources, leading innovation, organizational communication, or a general broad-based curriculum. Admission requirements include 500-word admission essay, two letters of recommendation, current resume with 3-5 years professional experience, and transcripts with undergraduate GPA of 2.75 minimum. No GRE or GMAT scores are required, but students may send them in to bolster application. CU is ranked #96 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#15 – Brandman University
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Irvine, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,880
Brandman University offers one of the most affordable online organizational leadership programs designed to help the individual grow in their capacity to lead, which leads to increased personal and organizational success. Admission to the program includes several pathways depending on the applicant’s undergraduate GPA. All admission pathways include the applicant sending in transcripts and completing the application. The organizational leadership MA does not require GRE test scores as part of its application. Program curriculum features courses such as foundations of organizational leadership, leading organizational change, leadership and team development, and organizational research. Brandman is included in the cohort of best regional universities West by U.S. News and World Report.
#14 – The University of Alabama
Online Master’s in Communication Studies with Concentration in Organizational Leadership
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,780
The University of Alabama’s online master’s in organizational leadership focuses on the communication theory and skills needed to effectively lead individuals and organizations. The program blends together leadership research with applied knowledge to help students develop decisive decision-making skills along with effective negotiation of interpersonal communication as well as group communication. Applications are accepted year-round. Admission requirements include a minimum 300 combined on the GRE (verbal and quantitative) or 50th percentile on the MAT. An applicant should also have a 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA or 3.0 GPA in last 60 credit hours. Courses include conflict and negotiation, communication and diversity, gender and political communication, and relational communication. Alabama is ranked #129 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#13 – University of Kansas
Online Master’s in Business and Organizational Leadership
Lawrence, Kansas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,704
University of Kansas offers a partially online master’s in organizational leadership with credits that can be applied to an online MBA. The 30-credit program follows a 50/50 model between online and in-person courses. Students can complete the program in just ten months. Featured required courses include developing effective management and team skills, ethical decision-making in business, managing people, and managing strategic direction and change. Students can transfer up to six credits from other institutions upon approval. Admission requirements include sealed transcripts, copy of resume, GMAT scores (for applicants with a GPA lower than 3.5), and 8-10 years of managerial and leadership experience. KU is ranked #129 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#12 – Concordia University
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership and Administration
Mequon, Wisconsin
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,542
Concordia University Wisconsin offers one of the most affordable online MBA in organizational leadership programs designed to create ethical and effective leaders. The curriculum combines proven leadership practices and knowledge with Christian principles. Students come from a variety of backgrounds and with varying leadership and managerial experience. Admission requirements include resume, one-page essay explaining reason for obtaining degree, transcripts, bachelor’s degree, and two letters of recommendation. The program does not require GMAT or GRE scores. Featured courses include ethical dimensions of leadership, financial analysis and budgeting, leadership in international organizations, organizational communication and negotiation, and select and implement information systems. Concordia is ranked #70 in regional universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.
#11 – Baker University
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Baldwin City, Kansas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,368
Through the School of Professional and Graduate Studies, Baker University offers one of the most affordable online organizational leadership programs to students seeking to develop their leadership skills and knowledge. Depending on their personal interests and career path, students can choose from concentrations in finance, health care administration, human resources, and leadership and organizational change. Courses may include assessment of corporate performance, corporate social responsibility and accountability, maximizing technology in organizations, and methods of inquiry for business decisions. Admission requirements include bachelor degree from regionally accredited school, transcripts, and completed application. Baker University is ranked #50 in regional universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.
#10 – Belhaven University
Online Master’s in Leadership
Jackson, Mississippi
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,170
Belhaven University offers an affordable master’s in organizational leadership online designed to increase leadership capacity for managers, administrators, and executives working in a variety of organizations. The curriculum delves into internal and external forces that shape leaders and how they can positively impact their subordinates and the overall organization. Students can choose from two concentrations, including ministry and human resources. The 36-credit program includes classes such as financial analysis, introduction to graduate education, leading productive teams, principles of executive leadership, and the legal environment of business. All courses infuse Christian principles into the curriculum. Belhaven is ranked #65 in regional universities South.
#9 – Trevecca Nazarene University
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Nashville, Tennessee
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,968
Trevecca Nazarene University offers an online MBA in organizational leadership that seeks to develop the leadership acumen of its students. The program focuses on applied leadership skills and theories combined with Christian principles in an interdisciplinary curriculum featuring courses such as concepts of organizational leadership, conflict management and negotiation, cultivating networks and fundraising, leading and building teams, and leading in diverse communities. Admission requirements include bachelor’s degree, 2.5 cumulative GPA from all coursework, and government issued identification. The program welcomes students from a variety of backgrounds and work experience. Trevecca Nazarene University is ranked #230 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#8 – Crown College
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,430
Crown College offers one of the most affordable online organizational leadership programs that prepare current and future leaders to successfully manage people and organizations within a business environment. The program curriculum focuses on applied leadership principles in combination with biblical principles. Students can choose from 12 leadership tracks such as biblical studies, Christian studies, church development, community development, disaster and emergency management, intercultural ministries, international Christian education, non-profit leadership, pastoral counseling, pastoral leadership, social science research, and spiritual formation. Core classes include ethical leadership, foundations of organizational theory, organizational communication, and strategic planning. Crown is ranked #46 in regional colleges Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.
#7 – Colorado State University
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Greenwood Village, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,000
Colorado State University provides working adults with one of the most affordable online organizational leadership programs. The CSU program is an excellent fit for working adults as it can be completed entirely online. Students can select from 19 different specialty tracks that fit with their career objectives. Tracks include accounting, applied business management, English K-12 education, healthcare administration, human resource management, information technology, mathematics education, organizational learning, project management, strategic innovation, and more. Featured courses include business ethics and corporate social responsibility, contemporary business writing and communication, examination of modern leadership, and organizational leadership strategy and execution. CSU is ranked #140 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#6 – University of Idaho
Online Master’s in Adult Organizational Learning and Leadership
Moscow, Idaho
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,864
One alternative to the online MBA in organizational leadership is University of Idaho’s adult organization learning and leadership master’s. The program is relevant for those seeking to leverage leadership and training skills into top positions that focus on employee development and professional learning. The program includes a minimum of 30 credits and has thesis and non-thesis options. Featured core classes include adult and transformational learning, foundations of human resource development, future of education and work, and instructional design and curriculum. Students can transfer up to 12 credits from other programs or institutions upon approval. UI is ranked #165 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#5 – University of Wisconsin
Online Master’s in Organizational Change Leadership
Platteville, Wisconsin
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,758
The University of Wisconsin Platteville offers an online master’s in organizational leadership designed to empower students to effectively lead organizations through the change process. The degree can be completed in two years and offers specializations in project management, healthcare, human resources, and safety risk control. Students can transfer up to 12 credits from other programs or institutions. The University of Wisconsin has a transfer agreement with the University of California Riverside and Irvine. Students can also receive credit for professional experience. Courses may include human resource management, intercultural change leadership, intro to organizational change leadership, and organizational communication. UW Platteville is ranked #111 in regional universities Midwest.
#4 – Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Winona, Minnesota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,550
Saint Mary’s University offers an exceptionally affordable alternative to the online MBA in organizational leadership through its master of arts in organizational leadership. The program’s learning outcomes all focus on leadership development and skills needed to effectively lead individuals and organizations through periods of growth and change. The 36-credit degree can be completed in just 24 months and features coursework such as collaboration and team-building, economic and political contexts, power and influence, social and cultural perspectives, and talent management. Admission requirements include bachelor’s degree from regionally accredited program, minimum 2.75 GPA, written statement, two letters of recommendation, and transcripts. GRE/GMAT scores not required. Saint Mary’s is ranked #50 in regional universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.
#3 – Lincoln Christian University
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Lincoln, Illinois
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,812
Lincoln Christian University offers a master’s in organizational leadership online for individuals seeking an organizational leadership graduate degree steeped in Christian philosophy and principles. The degree can be parlayed into a variety of secular careers as well as religious appointments. The fully online degree can be completed in approximately 21 months. Courses include authentic leadership in organizational contexts, cultural expressions in organizational leadership, dynamics of change and conflict in organizational leadership, foundations for organizational leadership, and legal and ethical issues in organizational leadership. Lincoln Christian University is recognized in the 2019 cohort of schools for regional universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.
#2 – Winona State University
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Winona, Minnesota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,682
Winona State University’s online master’s in organizational leadership provides students with an affordable and flexible graduate degree from a regionally accredited institution. Online classes are delivered in a synchronous manner where students are able to view live lectures typically from 5:30-8:20 central standard time. The 33-credit program includes courses such as change leadership, communication, leadership capstone experience, and systems thinking. Admission requirements include an undergraduate GPA of 2.75, transcripts, application, and written statement. The program is designed for current or aspiring leaders from a variety of personal and academic backgrounds. Winona State University is ranked #72 in regional universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.
#1 – Columbia Southern University
Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
Orange Beach, Alabama
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $3,615
Columbia Southern University offers students a flexible and affordable master’s in organizational leadership online that provides students with the knowledge and applied leadership skills to effectively manage and lead today’s complex organizations. The program focuses on both internal and external factors that impact leadership and decision-making. The 36-credit degree is appropriate for current or aspiring leaders from all walks of life, occupations, and academic background. Major core requirements include classes like crisis communication management, current issues in leadership, managing project teams, methods of analysis for business operations, and strategic management and business policy. CSU is an accredited member of the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC).
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Frequently Asked Questions
What do individuals with a master’s in organizational leadership online degree do?
Organizational leadership is a management approach that works to find what is best for the individual and the organization or company as a whole. This simultaneous approach emphasizes work ethics that empower all levels of the organization, from the bottom to the top.
Organizational leaders, also referred to as training and development managers, oversee staff, coordinate programs, and offer training and development within the organization. They often work with company executives and top-level leadership to identify and carry out training priorities. Some of the tasks carried out by organizational leaders include assessing the employees’ need for training and development, developing new training programs that improve efficiency and conserve resources, and reviewing and updating training manuals or materials supplied by vendors or created in-house.
Organizational leaders and managers may oversee staff and be responsible for a team of employees. In larger companies, these specialized managers oversee specialists and training staff. They may also conduct training courses or ensure that staff effectively carries out training courses and programs.
Most organizational leaders work full-time and are expected to maintain hours that extend beyond the typical work day. Managers may also work directly with company CEOs and top financial officers.
What are the admission requirements for master’s in organizational leadership online programs?
Admission committees evaluate an applicant’s academic record and promise. Careful consideration of a number of items helps admissions committees make decisions on acceptance. Most master’s in organizational leadership online programs require the applicant to have an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. The bachelor’s degree can be in any discipline, but some programs may prefer experience in business, leadership, or other disciplines that mesh well with advanced study in organizational leadership.
Top-ranked programs require a strong undergraduate academic record. Programs may ask for an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better. Top-tier schools may require an even stronger GPA of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale. If you already possess a master’s degree, the graduate GPA will also be reviewed.
GRE or GMAT test scores are also considered by some institutions. Top-ranked programs look for satisfactory performance on certain graduate exams. Other programs may make the graduate exam optional. For those programs requiring the GRE or GMAT, scores must be less than five years old.
Additional eligibility requirements vary by programs and institutions. Most schools ask for a writing sample, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to your academic potential.
What is the career outlook for individuals with a master’s in organizational leadership online degree?
The United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a favorable job outlook for training and development managers through the year 2026. This includes the employment of organizational leaders. BLS projects employment for this occupation should grow 10 percent over the next seven years.
In 2016, there were 34,500 training and development managers. By 2026, the projected employment of training and development managers is 38,100. Growth is expected due to the need to replace workers who leave the occupation. Also, as companies grow and expand, workplace education and training will be needed.
Jobs for organizational leadership and development that are projected to be in demand over the next several years include corporate coaches, directors and assistant directors of human capital, human resource managers, managers of strategic change, and training and development directors.
As the economy fluctuates, organizations adjust, but effective organizational leadership will always be an integral part of success. By earning a master’s in organizational leadership online degree, you will be equipped to lead in any industry.
Employers look favorably on individuals with a master’s degree. In fact, some employers view a master’s as having two years of industry experience. Earning a master’s in organizational leadership online degree can give you a competitive edge.
How much will I make with an online master’s in organizational leadership degree?
PayScale, a global compensation research organization, reports that individuals with a master’s in organizational leadership earn an average salary of $70,000 per year. Salaries vary with job title, region, and experience level.
As of January 2019, the average organizational development specialist salary was $62,297. The lowest 10 percent of organizational development specialists earned $47,000, and the highest 10 percent earned $87,000 per year. Salary included bonuses and profit sharing. Organizational development directors earn higher wages. Also, in January 2019, PayScale reports the average organizational development director salary was $118,044. The lowest 10 percent earned $72,000, and the highest 10 percent earned $164,000 per year.
There is a positive trend for pay by experience. The more experience an individual has as an organizational leader, the more money they will likely make. Entry-level organizational development directors with less than five years of experience earn an average compensation of $91,000. The average compensation includes bonuses, commission, and profit sharing. Those with mid-career (five to ten years’) experience, can expect to earn a total compensation of $98,000. Experienced organizational development directors with ten to twenty years in the industry can expect to earn $127,000. Individuals with late-career experience, greater than 20 years of experience, can expect to earn a total compensation of $130,000 per year.
How long does it take to earn an online master’s in organizational leadership degree?
The completion time for a master’s in organizational leadership online degree varies by program. A traditional master’s degree takes approximately two years or 24 months to complete, while an online pathway may shorten the time required. When enrolled full-time, an online master’s in organizational leadership takes between 15 and 20 months.
Accelerated options are available with some programs. Accelerated programs shorten the length of time required to earn a degree, though full-time enrollment is often required. The average full-time online master’s in organizational leadership takes 18 months, and in some cases ever shorter. Programs that allow students to work at their own pace take less time to earn the degree.
Part-time enrollment options are also available. When enrolled part time, students typically take less classes than a full-time course load requires. Part-time options are ideal for working students. Part-time pathways allow students to take one or two classes at a time. A lighter course load means less time required for studies. Working students, or those with outside obligations such as children and family, benefit from the flexibility of a part-time program.
While part-time programs offer flexibility and require less time studying, full-time enrollment shortens the time required for a degree.
BCO Staff
January 2019
This concludes our list of the top 30 most affordable online master’s in organizational leadership programs.
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