A Master of Science (M.S.) in organizational leadership program focuses on the skills necessary to manage and lead people and organizations and improve their effectiveness. Companies have a growing need for leaders who can manage not just people but also business strategy and evolution. The need for these roles is increasing due to the growing number of top-level managers and executives reaching retirement age or opting to pursue different roles.
This article explores the career opportunities available with this degree, including high-level roles, and the essential skills you’ll gain throughout the program. You’ll also learn how the online Master of Science (M.S.) in Organizational Leadership program from Arkansas State University (A-State) prepares graduates for success in real-world business settings.
What Is a Master’s in Organizational Leadership?
The purpose of a master’s in organizational leadership is to help students develop strong leadership, communication and strategic business decision-making skills. You will also learn how to manage dynamic organizations, articulate strategies to develop leadership qualities in others, and determine how to utilize a personal leadership strategy to manage teams and organizations in a range of business scenarios.
An M.S. in organizational leadership offers an in-depth, detailed focus on leadership and interpersonal skills, making it different from a Master of Business Administration (MBA). An MBA provides a broad focus on general aspects of business, such as marketing and accounting. Ideal candidates for an organizational leadership M.S. degree include working professionals or prospective managers from industries such as manufacturing, consulting, retail and technology. They should possess traits like creativity, empathy, self-awareness and confidence, and have an understanding of the importance of social psychology. Ideal candidates also have a desire to foster positive workplace cultures while driving organizational change in sectors like healthcare, business or education.
What Skills Will You Build in an Organizational Leadership Program?
In an organizational leadership program, you’ll gain both technical and interpersonal skills. Developing and utilizing both skill sets is important for success in this field. Technical skills include financial analysis, strategic planning, project management, data analysis and industry expertise.
The soft skills you’ll gain in the program include team building, communication, emotional intelligence and resilience. According to the Indepth Research Institute (IRES), learning and implementing soft skills are increasingly important for success in organizational leadership roles.
What Are the Career Paths With an Organizational Leadership Degree?
Graduates may choose to pursue several roles after earning an M.S. in Organizational Leadership. Examples include human resources (HR) managers, operations managers, project managers and executive leadership or other C-suite roles.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of top executives is projected to grow 4% by 2034, with 331,000 job openings predicted each year over the next decade. The median annual salary for these roles was $105,350. These leaders typically work in settings such as small businesses, large corporations, nonprofit organizations, government, healthcare and education sectors.
Why Should You Earn a Master’s in Organizational Leadership?
If you’re interested in gaining versatility and flexibility with key skills that transfer across all types of industries and organizations, an M.S. in organizational leadership online degree is a good choice. A-State’s online program is ideal for working professionals looking for career advancement opportunities, higher salaries and who aspire to take on meaningful leadership roles.
An M.S. in organizational leadership prepares professionals to become leaders and make a significant impact on individuals and organizations. Coursework emphasizes skills that set you apart from the crowd, such as fostering collaboration, building cohesive teams and driving employee engagement. Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights that supportive leaders do more than improve organizational outcomes; they also strengthen employee well-being, mental health and resilience by reducing workplace stressors.
Inside A-State’s Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership Program
Arkansas State University’s online M.S. in Organizational Leadership degree can be completed in as few as 12 months. The program is delivered 100% online with 24/7 access. You can study, submit assignments and join discussions from your laptop, desktop, tablet or smartphone without putting your busy work and family life on hold.
The Neil Griffin College of Business at A-State is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International). This organization represents the highest standard of achievement for business schools worldwide. Coursework at A-State shapes students into an effective leader and communicator with expertise in navigating crises, driving organizational growth and building strong teams.
Prepare Your Future for Career Growth Today
With an organizational leadership master’s degree from A-State, you’ll have the flexibility and versatility you need to help your career grow and pursue new career opportunities. Our online program prepares graduates for leadership roles in a wide range of professional, educational and governmental organizations.
If you want to learn more, explore the A-State website to get additional information about the program. When you’re ready to start your journey, you can apply online to A-State’s online M.S. in Organizational Leadership program.