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.
2026 Best MBA in Organizational Leadership Programs
Pepperdine University
Malibu, CA - Private 4-year - pepperdine.edu
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Leadership and Managing Organizational Change - Campus Based - Visit Website
Pepperdine University's MBA in Leadership and Managing Organizational Change prepares professionals to lead transformative initiatives in evolving business landscapes. This 12- or 20-month campus program emphasizes strategic leadership, organizational change, and behavioral science, with core and elective courses covering talent management, cross-cultural leadership, and innovation. The curriculum equips graduates to navigate complex challenges and drive development across technologies and human resources. As a master's-level program, it requires an entrance exam such as the GMAT or GRE, and it is military-friendly.
- 12 and 20-month MBA options
- 8 core units, 4 elective units
- Focus on organizational change
- Courses in leadership strategies
- Prepares for dynamic environments
- Flexible elective course selection
- Advanced behavioral science topics
- Cross-cultural management options
- Talent management curriculum
- Innovation leadership training
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Leadership Studies - Online Learning - Visit Website
Fort Hays State University's online MBA with a Leadership Studies concentration equips professionals with advanced skills in organizational change, team dynamics, and strategic problem-solving. This program delves into leadership theories and multi-level analysis, emphasizing practical applications in business contexts. It requires no entrance exam, making it accessible for career advancement. Focused on enhancing leadership capabilities, the curriculum covers change management and collaborative strategies, ideal for those aiming to drive organizational success.
- MBA with Leadership Concentration
- Three specialized leadership courses
- Theoretical and practical approach
- Focuses on organizational systems
- Examines team dynamics
- Explores leadership theories
- Enhances problem-solving skills
- Multi-level leadership analysis
- Comprehensive change management
- Business organizational context
Youngstown State University
Youngstown, OH - Public 4-Year - ysu.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Organizational Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Youngstown State University's online MBA in Organizational Leadership is a 30-credit AACSB-accredited program that can be completed in as few as 12 months for $13,500 in-state tuition. This concentration focuses on developing strategic leadership skills to drive organizational success and build high-performing teams across industries. Designed for working professionals, the program offers flexible online learning with multiple start dates and allows transfer of up to 9 credits. The GMAT requirement is waived for qualified candidates with relevant work experience or academic backgrounds, making it accessible without entrance exams.
- 100% Online MBA Program
- $13,500 In-State Tuition
- As Few as 12 Months
- 30 Credit Hours Total
- AACSB-Accredited Program
- GMAT Waived for Qualified
- Multiple Start Dates
- Transfer Up to 9 Credits
- Leadership Specialization
- Next Deadline: 2/17/25
University of Massachusetts Global
Irvine, CA - Public 4-Year - umassglobal.edu
Master's - MBA in Organizational Leadership
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Massachusetts Global's online MBA in Organizational Leadership equips professionals with strategic decision-making and ethical leadership skills to drive positive organizational change. The program emphasizes inclusive leadership through 8 core courses and 12 specialized credits, offering a flexible online format ideal for working adults. With a $730 per credit tuition and no GRE/GMAT required for applicants with a 2.75 GPA, it focuses on practical knowledge application and career advancement. The next session starts on March 3, 2025, providing a seamless pathway for professional growth without entrance exams.
- 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
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS - Public 4-Year - ku.edu
Master's - Hybrid MBA
Concentration: Organizational Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Kansas Hybrid MBA with an Organizational Leadership concentration combines online flexibility with in-person engagement, ideal for military personnel and Leavenworth community professionals. This 42-credit hour program emphasizes strategic leadership development through specialized tracks and practical experiential learning. It features eight-week sessions, potential military credit transfers, and recognition by U.S. News. As a master's level program, it may require entrance exams like the GMAT or GRE, though specific requirements should be verified with the university.
- Hybrid MBA with Organizational Leadership focus
- 42 credit hours total program
- Flexible online and in-person classes
- Military and Leavenworth community friendly
- Two eight-week session semesters
- Military leadership credits possible
- U.S. News recognized program
- Specialized leadership track available
- Practical experiential learning approach
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 MBA in Organizational Leadership that equips professionals with advanced leadership capabilities through its AACSB-accredited curriculum. This 12-month program emphasizes strategic decision-making, ethical leadership, and innovative management, preparing graduates for high-level roles across various industries. At $18,000 total tuition, it provides comprehensive business training with a focus on organizational leadership, delivered entirely online by experienced faculty. No entrance exam is required for admission, making it accessible for working professionals seeking career advancement in leadership positions.
- 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
Franklin University
Columbus, OH - Private 4-year - franklin.edu
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Organizational Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Franklin University's 12-month online MBA in Organizational Leadership focuses on developing change management, team building, and strategic leadership skills through practical coursework taught by industry practitioners. This IACBE-accredited program requires no GMAT or GRE and offers flexible start dates, making it accessible for working professionals. At $670 per credit hour with a total cost of approximately $24,120, it provides an affordable path to enhance organizational effectiveness, with potential partner discounts available.
- 100% online program
- 12-month completion time
- No GMAT/GRE required
- $670 per credit hour
- IACBE accredited
- Multiple start dates annually
- Taught by in-field practitioners
- Theory-to-practice coursework
- Specialization in Organizational Leadership
University of Central Missouri
Warrensburg, MO - Public 4-Year - ucmo.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Management and Organizational Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Central Missouri's AACSB-accredited MBA in Management and Organizational Leadership develops advanced skills in workforce development, change management, and strategic leadership. This hybrid program features small classes of up to 25 students and can be completed in just 12 months with multiple start dates annually. Notably, no GMAT or GRE is required for admission. Graduates benefit from a 96% job placement rate, applied learning approaches, and scholarship opportunities, earning recognition from Fortune and U.S. News for its effectiveness in preparing leaders for corporate and government roles.
- AACSB-accredited business program
- No GMAT/GRE required
- Flexible online/hybrid options
- Courses limited to 25 students
- Complete in 12 months
- Multiple start dates yearly
- 96% job placement rate
- Multiple scholarship opportunities
- Applied learning strategy
- Recognized by Fortune, U.S. News
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 prepares professionals for advanced management roles through a curriculum that integrates core business principles with specialized leadership development. The program emphasizes emotional intelligence, strategic decision-making, and social justice perspectives to foster effective leadership in diverse environments. With a total tuition of $17,600 and AACSB accreditation, it offers an affordable, high-quality education. The flexible online format features six-week courses and seven annual start dates, allowing completion in as few as 10 months. No GMAT is required for many applicants, though a 3.0 GPA and professional resume are necessary for admission.
- 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
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR - Public 4-Year - oregonstate.edu
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Organizational Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Oregon State University's online MBA in Organizational Leadership focuses on developing advanced leadership skills through a curriculum that integrates human dynamics and financial strategy. This graduate program requires 45-60 quarter credits and is delivered online or in hybrid formats, offering flexibility for working professionals. The cost is $893 per credit with no nonresident fees, and it features four start terms per year. No entrance exam is required for admission. The program emphasizes communication, critical thinking, and conflict management to prepare graduates for complex business challenges.
- 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
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/