Best MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior
An MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior is designed for professionals looking to lead teams, drive corporate culture, and implement strategic change. This specialization focuses on leadership development, organizational psychology, team dynamics, and corporate decision-making, equipping graduates with the expertise to manage human capital, organizational change, and business innovation.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for management professionals is projected to grow by 7% through 2031, reflecting the increasing need for effective leadership in businesses of all sizes. The median salary for management occupations is $120,000, demonstrating the high demand for skilled leaders who can improve workplace culture, drive innovation, and effectively lead diverse teams ( BLS). A report by Harvard Business Review states that organizations with strong leadership development programs outperform their competitors by 30% in revenue growth, highlighting the critical need for leadership training and organizational behavior expertise ( HBR).
An MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior specialization is ideal for professionals seeking to advance into executive leadership roles, improve organizational effectiveness, and foster innovation in business environments.
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What is an Online MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior?
An Online MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior provides a flexible pathway for professionals looking to develop expertise in leadership psychology, corporate behavior, and team management strategies while continuing their careers. These programs focus on organizational change, leadership ethics, and employee engagement, helping students prepare for leadership roles in corporate management, consulting, and executive coaching.
Students gain expertise in strategic leadership, performance management, and change management methodologies, ensuring they can enhance employee productivity and implement company-wide improvements. Many online programs include leadership simulations, real-world management case studies, and executive coaching projects, providing an immersive learning experience.
What Are the Admissions Requirements for an MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior?
Admissions requirements for an MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior vary by program, but typically include:
- Bachelor’s Degree – From an accredited institution, often in business, psychology, human resources, or a related field.
- Work Experience – 2-5 years of professional experience in leadership, management, or organizational development is preferred.
- GMAT/GRE Scores – Some programs require standardized test scores, while others offer waivers.
- Personal Statement – Discussing career goals and why the applicant is pursuing an MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior.
- Letters of Recommendation – Typically from employers, executives, or academic mentors.
- Resume – Highlighting experience in leadership roles, strategic management, or human capital development.
Is an MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior the Right Specialization for You?
An MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior specialization is best suited for professionals who are motivational leaders, problem-solvers, and strategic thinkers. If you are passionate about corporate culture, team leadership, and organizational psychology, this specialization will provide the necessary skills for career advancement.
Compared to other MBA specializations, such as Human Resource Management or Business Strategy, an MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior focuses on people management, team performance, and corporate leadership strategies. If you want to lead teams, shape company culture, or improve workplace dynamics, this program may be the best fit for you.
2025 Best MBA in Organizational Leadership Programs
Looking for the best MBA in Organizational Leadership programs? mbaschools.org ranks top schools to help you decide. Our list highlights programs that stand out for their quality, faculty, and career outcomes. We focus on what matters to students like you. Want to know how we pick these programs? Check out our ranking methodology for details. Start your journey to leadership today with a program that fits your goals.
Alverno College
Milwaukee, WI - Private 4-year - alverno.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Organizational Leadership and Development - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Alverno College's MBA in Organizational Leadership and Development is a hybrid program tailored for professionals aiming to master leadership in dynamic business environments. This 33-semester-hour program can be completed in less than two years, offering a blend of six required courses (21 credits) and four electives (12 credits) that emphasize strategic analysis, global competence, and ethical leadership. The curriculum is designed to integrate core business knowledge with experiential learning, preparing students for cross-functional management and innovative problem-solving. Ideal for those seeking to advance into strategic roles, the program focuses on developing leaders capable of making a significant organizational impact. Requires GMAT.
- 33-semester-hour MBA program
- Less than two years completion
- Six required courses (21 credits)
- Four elective courses (12 credits)
- Organizational Leadership concentration available
- Integrates core business knowledge areas
- Emphasizes experiential learning
- Develops strategic analysis skills
- Focuses on global competence
- Promotes ethical leadership
- Cross-functional curriculum approach
Arcadia University
Glenside, PA - Private 4-year - arcadia.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Organizational Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Arcadia University's online MBA in Organizational Leadership is tailored for professionals seeking to enhance their leadership skills in a flexible, digital environment. This 19-month program stands out for its no GMAT requirement, making it accessible to a broader range of applicants. With a focus on strategic management and organizational leadership, the curriculum is designed to prepare students for senior roles across various industries. The program's affordability, at $855 per credit, and its ACBSP accreditation, ensure a valuable return on investment. Additionally, the opportunity to transfer credits from graduate certificates adds further flexibility for students aiming to accelerate their career progression.
- 100% Online Program
- 19-Month Completion Time
- 30 Credit Hours Total
- No GMAT Required
- Organizational Leadership Concentration
- Cost Per Credit: $855
- Total Tuition: $25,650
- Minimum 2.75 GPA Required
- Accredited by ACBSP
- Transferable Graduate Certificates
Eastern Washington University
Cheney, WA - Public 4-Year - ewu.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Organizational Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern Washington University's online MBA in Organizational Leadership is tailored for professionals aiming to enhance their leadership and management skills. This AACSB-accredited program stands out for its affordability, with a total tuition of $17,600, and flexibility, offering seven start dates annually and a 100% online format. The curriculum focuses on developing strategic thinking and emotional intelligence, preparing graduates to lead with a social justice perspective. Notably, the GMAT is waived for many applicants, making it accessible to a broader range of students. The program can be completed in as few as 10 months, with a six-week course format designed for busy professionals. Highlights include 'No GMAT Required' for eligible applicants, emphasizing the program's commitment to accessibility and practical leadership development.
- 100% Online MBA Program
- $17,600 Total Tuition
- GMAT Waived for Many
- AACSB Accredited Program
- As Few as 10 Months
- 44 Total Credit Hours
- Seven Annual Start Dates
- Six-Week Course Format
- Requires 3.0 GPA
- Professional Resume Required
Jacksonville State University
Jacksonville, AL - Public 4-Year - jsu.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Organizational Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Jacksonville State University offers an online Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Organizational Leadership, tailored for professionals aiming to elevate their leadership capabilities. This AACSB-accredited program stands out for its focus on strategic decision-making, ethical leadership, and innovative management, preparing graduates for leadership roles across various industries. The curriculum is designed to be both comprehensive and practical, ensuring students are ready to tackle real-world business challenges. At an affordable total tuition of $18,000, the program can be completed in just 12 months, making it an excellent option for those looking to advance their careers efficiently. Highlights include its 100% online format, experienced faculty, and a strong emphasis on career-relevant coursework and ethical leadership.
- 100% Online Program
- AACSB Accredited
- $18,000 Total Tuition
- 12 Months Duration
- 30 Credit Hours
- Experienced Industry Faculty
- Career-Relevant Coursework
- Strategic Leadership Focus
- Comprehensive Business Training
- Ethical Leadership Emphasis
Johnson & Wales University-Online
Providence, RI - Private 4-year - online.jwu.edu
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Organizational Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson & Wales University-Online offers a hybrid MBA program with a concentration in Organizational Leadership, designed for professionals aiming to lead with impact. This program stands out for its focus on emotional intelligence and strategic leadership, preparing students to foster team unity and drive organizational success. The curriculum integrates performance theory with practical applications, enabling learners to apply leadership principles in real-world settings. Graduates emerge with the skills to enhance organizational effectiveness and lead teams toward achieving collective goals. Highlights include a hybrid delivery model, a curriculum tailored for professional growth, and an emphasis on emotionally intelligent leadership. 'Requires GMAT'
- Hybrid program delivery model
- Professionally-focused curriculum
- Emotionally intelligent leadership focus
- Action learning approach
- Career growth potential
- Average alumni salary $97,872
- 78% work in related fields
- Management careers trending upward
Johnson & Wales University-Providence
Providence, RI - Private 4-year - jwu.edu
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Organizational Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson & Wales University-Providence offers a hybrid MBA in Organizational Leadership designed for professionals aiming to master leadership in dynamic business environments. This program emphasizes emotional intelligence, strategic leadership, and innovative management practices to foster organizational transformation. With a curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical application, students are prepared to lead diverse teams and tackle complex challenges. The program includes online concentration courses and campus-based foundation courses, catering to working professionals. Graduates can expect to enter a market where management careers are on the rise, with an estimated alumni salary of $97,872 and 78% working in related fields.
- MBA with Organizational Leadership concentration
- Online concentration courses
- Courses include leadership strategies
- Professionally-focused curriculum
- Estimated alumni salary $97,872
- 78% work in related field
- Campus-based foundation courses
- Management careers trending upward
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Mount Vernon, OH - Private 4-year - mvnu.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Organizational Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
Mount Vernon Nazarene University offers an MBA in Organizational Management designed for professionals aiming to enhance their leadership skills in a business context. This 100% online program focuses on strategic leadership, human resources, and change management, allowing students to complete their degree in as little as 19 months. With a curriculum that includes 9 core MBA courses and 3 concentration-specific courses, students gain a comprehensive understanding of business operations and organizational leadership. The program is priced competitively at $498 per credit hour, totaling $17,928 for the 36-credit hour program. Unique to this program is its Christian University perspective, offering a values-based approach to business leadership. Start dates are flexible, with options beginning in November 2024, February 2025, and May 2025. Requires GMAT.
- 100% Online Program
- 19-month Completion Time
- $498 per Credit Hour
- 36 Total Credit Hours
- Total Tuition: $17,928
- Fast-Track Option: 11-15 Months
- 9 Core MBA Courses
- 3 Concentration-Specific Courses
- Christian University Perspective
- Next Start Dates: 11/11/2024, 02/24/2025, 05/19/2025
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR - Public 4-Year - oregonstate.edu
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Organizational Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Oregon State University offers an online MBA with a concentration in Organizational Leadership, tailored for professionals aiming to enhance their leadership and strategic management skills. This program stands out for its focus on integrating human dynamics with business strategy, preparing students to lead effectively in diverse organizational settings. With a curriculum covering communication, conflict resolution, and strategic problem-solving, it's designed for those looking to advance their careers in leadership roles. The program's flexibility, with online and hybrid options, and a cost of $893 per credit, makes it accessible to working professionals. Highlights include no additional fees for nonresidents and four start terms per year, facilitating a smooth enrollment process. 'No GMAT Required' for applicants, making it an attractive option for many.
- 45-60 quarter credits
- Online or hybrid delivery
- $893 per credit
- 4 start terms per year
- Designed for leadership development
- No additional nonresident fees
- Quarter-term system
- Flexible learning options
The University of Texas at Tyler
Tyler, TX - Public 4-Year - uttyler.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Organizational Development & Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Texas at Tyler offers an online Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Organizational Development and Leadership, designed for professionals aiming to enhance their leadership skills and organizational impact. This AACSB-accredited program provides a flexible, 100% online learning environment, allowing students to complete their degree in as few as 12 months. With a focus on strategic human resource management and change leadership, the curriculum prepares graduates for high-demand roles in HR, training, and management. The program features a total tuition of $28,887.44, 36 credit hours, and 6 annual start dates, with no GMAT required for applicants with relevant experience. Military benefits are also available.
- 100% Online Delivery
- $28,887.44 Total Tuition
- As Few as 12 Months
- 36 Total Credit Hours
- 6 Annual Start Dates
- AACSB Accredited Program
- No GMAT Required with Experience
- 7-Week Course Format
- Military Benefits Eligible
- Concentration in Organizational Leadership
University of Massachusetts Global
Irvine, CA - Public 4-Year - umassglobal.edu
Master's - MBA in Organizational Leadership
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Massachusetts Global offers an MBA in Organizational Leadership designed for professionals aiming to enhance their leadership skills in a dynamic business environment. This online program focuses on strategic decision-making, ethical leadership, and fostering inclusive cultures within organizations. Tailored for working adults, it provides flexibility with an emphasis on practical knowledge application, requiring no GRE or GMAT for admission with a 2.75 GPA. The curriculum includes 8 core courses and 12 specialized credits, preparing graduates to lead with confidence and innovation. Priced at $730 per credit, the program is both accessible and rigorous, with the next session starting on March 3, 2025.
- Online MBA Organizational Leadership
- $730 per credit tuition
- No GRE/GMAT required
- 12 specialized credits
- Next session: Spring II (Mar 3, 2025)
- 2.75 minimum GPA
- 8 core requirement courses
- Emphasis on inclusive leadership
- Flexible professional pathway
MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior Curriculum: What Classes Will I Take?
Most MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior programs take 1-2 years to complete, depending on whether students enroll full-time, part-time, or in an accelerated format.
Core Courses in an MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior
The curriculum for a Leadership and Organizational Behavior MBA specialization blends business leadership with behavioral science expertise through courses such as:
- Leadership Development & Executive Coaching
- Organizational Behavior & Team Dynamics
- Change Management & Corporate Transformation
- Emotional Intelligence & Workplace Communication
- Conflict Resolution & Negotiation Strategies
- Employee Engagement & Performance Management
- Ethical Leadership & Decision-Making
- Cultural Competency & Diversity in Organizations
Many programs also incorporate leadership case studies, including real-world executive coaching scenarios, team performance assessments, and corporate transformation projects. Some students complete internships with Fortune 500 companies, management consulting firms, or leadership development organizations to gain hands-on experience before graduation.
What Career Options Do I Have with an MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior?
An MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior specialization prepares graduates for leadership roles in corporate management, executive coaching, and organizational development. Standard job titles include:
- Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Oversees strategic vision and leadership for an organization.
- Corporate Training & Development Manager – Designs leadership programs and employee training initiatives.
- Management Consultant – Advises organizations on leadership development, corporate culture, and team performance.
- Human Resources Director – Leads talent acquisition, employee engagement, and workplace culture strategies.
- Organizational Development Specialist – Implements change management strategies and leadership training programs.
Salary Expectations
Salaries for MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior graduates vary based on industry, experience, and expertise. According to BLS and Harvard Business Review, professionals with an MBA in this specialization typically earn:
- Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – $180,000 – $400,000+
- Corporate Training & Development Manager – $110,000 – $160,000
- Management Consultant – $120,000 – $200,000
- Human Resources Director – $100,000 – $170,000
- Organizational Development Specialist – $95,000 – $150,000
Take the Next Step Toward a Leadership Role in Organizational Behavior
An MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior provides the expertise to manage teams effectively, drive company culture, and implement leadership strategies. Whether you want to lead corporate transformation, optimize team performance, or advance in executive management, this degree will give you the knowledge, skills, and network to achieve your career goals.
Explore top-ranked MBA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior programs today and advance your career.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Leadership & Management Careers. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/
- Harvard Business Review. (2023). Leadership Development & Organizational Effectiveness Report. Retrieved from https://hbr.org/