Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Programs of 2023
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- Organizational leadership is the key to success for any business or organization.
- A doctorate in organizational leadership hones your skills for high-level positions.
- Organizational leadership jobs potentially make up to $283,000 per year.
- BestColleges research shows that the average total cost of an online Ph.D. is $23,293 per year.
Do you see yourself as an influential leader in the workplace? As someone who can recognize a problem, find a solution, and communicate the plan to fix it?
All you need are the qualifications, and you could be a CEO someday. If that's what you want for your future, then an online doctorate in organizational leadership might be the best fit.
BestColleges.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.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Here's how to get started:
- Explore this page to determine whether this path is the right choice for you.
- Check out the top-ranked online doctorate in organizational leadership programs, as well as our sponsored programs.
- Request more information from schools you're interested in to find the best fit for your schedule, pocketbook, and career goals.
What Can You Do With a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership?
A doctorate in organizational leadership hones your skills for becoming an influential leader at any business or organization. You can apply these skills — such as assessing organizational challenges or setting large-scale goals — to nearly any setting, from nonprofits to government agencies.
What Jobs Can I Get With A Doctorate in Organizational Leadership?
The potential roles vary in scope, depending on your experience, strengths, or preferences. For example, you could become the chief executive officer of a cutting-edge tech research company. Or you could become a strategic organizational consultant for a nonprofit organization.
Careers in Organizational Leadership
- C-Level executive
- Director of leadership development
- Nonprofit director
- Organizational development specialist
- Senior human resources manager
- Organizational developmental director
- Succession planning manager
- University administrator
Featured Online Doctorate Degrees in Organizational Leadership
Why Should You Get an Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership?
Whether you want to be a better leader, systematically transform your workplace, or take on executive roles, a doctorate in organizational leadership can improve your career.
Benefits of a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership
- Advance to senior leadership roles.
- Increase your earning potential.
- Improve your leadership skills.
- Become an expert in your field.
Reasons to Get Your Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Online
- Balance work and school.
- You are a strong self-motivator.
- Save time on commuting.
- Learn from convenient locations, such as home.
Is an Online Doctorate Degree in Organizational Leadership Worth It?
Yes. A doctorate in organizational leadership leads to executive-level roles that increase your earning potential. You'll gain high-level knowledge of assessing and solving organizational challenges in many professional settings. Examples include businesses, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and higher education institutions.
What Are the Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degrees of 2023?
Compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team
How We Selected These Schools
In order to create our directory list of doctorate in organizational leadership programs, the BestColleges Rankings Team sourced the most recent data available from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Navigator, both of which are hosted by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). We identified five schools that qualify for our alphabetical list based on the following criteria:
*Each school must be an accredited public or private nonprofit institution.
*Each school must offer a doctoral degree program in the given subject.
*Each school must submit an annual report to NCES.
Review our Editorial Policy and Standards to learn more about the standards we uphold.
These rankings were compiled by our
BestColleges Ranking Team
and include
BestColleges.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.
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University of Massachusetts Global
Irvine, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,030
Out of State | $1,030
Credits to Graduate
57
Program Information
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission
UMass Global offers you a fully online program with one required on-campus visit. The doctorate in organizational leadership features a core curriculum in strategic thinking, the leader as a change agent, and innovation in resource management. Many research and writing classes prepare you for the dissertation process.
You may apply for the fall or spring semester. UMass Global requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, one essay, and a letter of intent.
Concordia University-Chicago
River Forest, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $751
Out of State | $751
Credits to Graduate
61-67
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Consider CUC if you want the choice between a Ph.D. and an Ed.D. The online doctorate in organizational leadership requires coursework in the pursuit of leadership excellence, leading the knowledge enterprise, and strategic forecasting. All classes last only eight weeks.
You need a minimum 3.0 graduate GPA to apply. Other requirements include a resume, recent GRE or MAT scores, and two recommendation letters. Foreign applicants must prove English proficiency by passing the Test of English as a Foreign Language.
Gardner-Webb University
Boiling Springs, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Mix of Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $580
Out of State | $580
Credits to Graduate
63
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Gardner-Webb's doctoral programs provide academic flexibility and some synchronous online coursework. The doctorate in organizational leadership lets you explore classes in leadership theory and practice, organizational behavior and theory, and organizational technology. Practica and the dissertation process help you develop the skills necessary to thrive in a leadership role.
You need a master's degree and a minimum 3.0 graduate GPA to apply. Gardner-Webb also requires three recommendation letters and MAT or GRE scores.
Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global
Marion, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Mix of Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $890
Out of State | $890
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
IWU helps you earn a doctorate in just four years. The online doctorate in organizational leadership teaches a Christ-centered curriculum with classes in leadership and content development, stewardship, and the application of research methods. Two research classes and a seminar prepare you for your dissertation.
You must hold a master's degree from an accredited college and have at least five years of work experience. IWU also requires a 5- to 6-page essay and three recommendation letters.
Johnson University
Knoxville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $715
Out of State | $715
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
JUTN provides you with a Christian education at a more affordable price. The doctorate in organizational leadership offers six concentrations, including educational leadership, ministry leadership, and the philosophy of leadership. You can graduate in four years as a full-time degree-seeker.
JUTN requires official transcripts, a three-page essay, and an academic writing sample. You also need three references, and one must come from your pastor or another religious mentor. You can get institutional financial aid if you meet specific requirements.
National University
La Jolla, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $442
Out of State | $442
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
NU lets you begin your education as soon as possible. New virtual classes in the online doctorate in organizational leadership program start weekly. Coursework focuses on organizational change, strategic planning, and project management.
Admission requirements include a minimum 2.75 GPA. However, NU may grant you conditional admission with a lower GPA if you submit satisfactory GRE or GMAT test scores.
Southeastern University
Lakeland, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Mix of Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $795
Out of State | $795
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
SEU's doctoral programs blend flexible online education with some residencies on the school's Lakeland, Florida campus. Classes in the online doctorate in organizational leadership program include organizational systems and management, ethical leadership, and teamwork dynamics. The curriculum stands out for its coursework in ethics and religion.
Your completed application portfolio contains official transcripts, two recommendation letters, an essay, and a doctoral writing sample. Potential careers for graduates include postsecondary teacher, researcher, and think tank consultant.
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Mix of Self-Paced Classes and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Semester
In State | $31,734
Out of State | $31,734
Credits to Graduate
43-60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission
Consider USC if you do not hold a master's degree. The doctorate in organizational leadership offers a 60-credit track for learners with only a bachelor's degree. The degree trains you for many management-level positions, such as CEO, professional development manager, and executive director.
USC admission requirements include at least six years of relevant work experience. You can prove your academic writing skills by submitting a sample or taking a USC writing assessment.
University of the Southwest
Hobbs, NM - 4 years
- Online
Hybrid | Mix of Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $799
Out of State | $799
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
USW's program stands apart from other top programs by offering a three-year completion time. The online doctorate in organizational leadership requires two on-campus residencies and classes in data analysis, marketing strategies, and human resources development. You'll take foundational classes specializing in healthcare administration or innovation.
You need a master's degree and a minimum 3.0 graduate GPA to apply. USW also requires three or more years of experience in a management-level position.
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $2,169
Out of State | $2,169
Credits to Graduate
54
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Situated in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, Vanderbilt's Peabody College offers many online graduate degrees. The doctorate in organizational leadership awards an Ed.D. and lets you graduate in 3-4 years. The curriculum focuses on leadership and organizational development, data and analytics, and learning and design.
Vanderbilt's application checklist includes official undergraduate and graduate transcripts, three recommendation letters, and GRE scores. The university waives the latter requirement for alumni with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Wilmington University
New Castle, DE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Mix of Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Class
In State | $2,037
Out of State | $2,037
Credits to Graduate
54
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Research WilmU if you want a customizable educational experience. The university's online doctorate in organizational leadership lets you specialize in strategic leadership or workplace learning and talent. Core classes in both tracks include technology and organization learning, teaming and knowledge management, and communities of practice.
WilmU accepts applications for the fall semester. The school requires a minimum 3.0 graduate GPA, three recommendation letters, and two 500-word essays. You must also interview with the program chair and complete a problem-solving project with other applicants.
How Much Does an Online PhD in Organizational Leadership Degree Cost?
The average total cost of an online Ph.D. is $23,293 per year, according to BestColleges research. It's cheaper than the average cost of Ph.D. programs, which is $32,846 per year.
But the final cost might range from $93,000-$186,000, depending on when you complete the Ph.D. Some students finish in four years, while others take up to eight.
Average Cost of Tuition for a Ph.D. Program Per Year: $16,526
Average Cost of Non-Tuition Related Expenses Per Year: $16,320
Average Total Cost of a Ph.D. Per Year: $32,846
Total Cost of a Ph.D. (4-8 Years): $131,000-$263,000
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Doctorate Degree in Organizational Leadership?
It takes between 4-5 years to complete most online doctorates in organizational leadership programs, depending on whether you enroll full time or part time. If you enroll part time, it may take up to seven years to graduate. Most programs consist of 50-65 credits.
Required Course Credits
50-65*
Field Study Requirements (Y/N)
Yes*
*Depending on your program and specialization
Common Concentrations for a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership
Many doctoral programs also feature concentration opportunities, allowing you to focus on an area of the field that interests you. These can include:
- Educational Leadership: This concentration prepares you for leadership roles in curriculum development settings, K-12 schools, and colleges. In this program, you combine concepts related to organizational leadership with educational theories.
- Missional Leadership: This concentration trains you specifically for faith-based leadership roles. You focus on spirituality, faith, and community within organizational contexts and settings. You can pursue roles as senior pastors and nonprofit CEOs.
- Healthcare Leadership: In this concentration, you explore the relationship between healthcare workers and administrators. Courses focus on addressing organizational challenges across healthcare settings.
- Entrepreneurial Leadership: This concentration examines business from an international perspective. You learn new methods to develop the economy and promote innovation within business. You also learn how to weigh risks in a variety of situations.
- Global Consulting: This concentration prepares you to pursue specialized leadership roles working on a global scale, such as military leaders. Throughout the program, you develop intercultural communication skills and learn how to conduct business across different cultures.
How Much Money Can I Make With a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership?
You can make up to $264,000 with a Ph.D. in organizational leadership, according to Payscale data from Jan. 2023. The average base salary is $90,000.
Ultimately, pay will vary based on your experience level, role, field, and industry. For example, a professor in postsecondary education made a median annual salary of $78,880 in May 2021, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Meanwhile, the median salary for a chief executive officer was $179,520 in 2021, according to the BLS.
Average base salary with a Ph.D. in organizational leadership
$90,000
Highest-paying wage with a Ph.D. in organizational leadership
$264,000
(Data from Payscale)
Still looking for the right fit? You might also like:
Everything Else You Need to Know About Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degrees
What is organizational leadership?
Organizational leadership is a management approach to leading, motivating, and unifying people within an organization. It involves setting goals, establishing milestones, and communicating the organization's mission to employees.
A good organizational leader is someone who can combine business understanding and people skills to guide an organization to achieve its goals.
How do you get a Ph.D. in organizational leadership?
The admission requirements for a doctorate in organizational leadership vary. But you typically need:
- A master's degree in a related field, such as psychology, behavioral science, or organizational discipline
- Three or more years of work experience
- A personal essay
- Official college or university transcripts
Doctoral programs take between 4-8 years to finish and include core coursework and elective courses. You'll likely need to meet certain grade requirements, such as maintaining a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA.
At the doctoral level, you must often complete a dissertation, as well.
What's the difference between a Ph.D. and an Ed.D. in organizational leadership?
There are two general differences between the doctoral degrees. A Ph.D. is an earned research degree, so you'll need to develop hypotheses that expand the knowledge of organizational leadership. An Ed.D. uses research but focuses more on complex organizational problems and learning the skills to resolve them.
