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Organizational Leadership

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Degree Level
Graduate
College
Education
Format
Online
Credit Hours
30 hours
Average Time to Degree
1 year

Organizational Leadership at Harding

The MAOL is a fully online, 30-hour graduate program focused on preparing professionals for individual and team success. Organizational leadership is the ideal field of study for individuals who care deeply about people and have a sincere desire to use their leadership abilities to make life better for others. Whereas an MBA program often approaches management by centering their course offerings on statistics, accounting, finance and processes, the MAOL degree focuses on leadership theory, human resources, communication strategies, negotiation, and team building and dynamics. In other words, the MAOL focuses on the people while the MBA focuses on the processes.

The MAOL offered through the Center for Leadership and Development at Harding University can be completed in as little as one year. The core courses for the MAOL are focused on personal leadership development, organizational communications, leadership theory and practice, leading for change and innovation, negotiation skills, and team building.

As part of the MAOL program, you will choose your concentration by selecting from a focus on executive and workplace coaching, human resource management, or learning and development. At the completion of your studies, you will hold a Master of Arts in organizational leadership as well as a graduate certificate in your chosen concentration.

 

Accreditation

Harding University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (www.hlcommission.org; 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604; 800-621-7440).

Learn more about the Education Department

Why study organizational leadership at Harding?

A Solid Foundation

The mission of the Center for Leadership and Development is to prepare professionals to serve with passion and confidence as leaders in all areas of life. To accomplish this mission, we aim to provide students with a solid foundation in leadership theory, to equip students with leadership training and practice, and to enable students to affect positive change in their communities.

Student First Mindset

Our faculty and staff utilize a “student first” mindset. We strive to create the optimal educational experience, seek to better understand your unique needs and create a positive environment in which you can be challenged and supported.

A flexible program

Students are responsible for pacing themselves through the program based upon their personal and professional goals. When taking a maximum load, MAOL students can earn their degree in three semesters. To provide maximum flexibility, MAOL students can take up to seven years to complete the program.

More Information

These online certificate programs are worth 12 credit hours and count toward an MAOL upon completion. However, these certifications are also available as stand-alone offerings. In other words, you can earn a graduate certificate without completing the MAOL.

This certification equips those who are seeking the expertise and insights needed to provide ethical and effective coaching. Courses are taught by International Coaching Federation (ICF) credentialed faculty, and curriculum is developed in alignment with the definition of coaching and coaching standards. The program is accredited as an ICF Level 1 (96 hour) coach education program.

This certification equips students who are looking to grow as leaders. Through this program, students are provided access to the understanding required for career advancement and is ideal for those who have a sincere desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

This certification equips students to know how to design and deliver effective training and development programs. As learning and development is one of the fastest growing career trajectories, this program will provide the competency needed to succeed in the field.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Admission to the Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership is determined on an individual basis. Effort is made to admit all students who qualify and who can benefit from these unique educational programs and opportunities available at Harding University. In general, requirements for admission include:

  • A baccalaureate or post-baccalaureate degree from an institution accredited by an agency nationally recognized by the US Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation
  • Completed application
  • Official transcript(s)
  • Personal Statement

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Harding University requires all international applicants who (1) speak English as a second language, and (2) have not graduated from an American university to meet a minimum score on a nationally recognized test of English language proficiency such as the TOEFL or IELTS. Minimum TOEFL scores acceptable for admission to the University are 550 (paper-based test), 213 (computer-based test), or 79 (internet-based test). The minimum IELTS score is 6.0. Scores must not be older than two years prior to the date of application to the University. TOEFL Code: B888

Further questions regarding admissions or application requirements may be directed to Academic Director Dr. Andrea Bishop at abishop5@harding.edu.

Curriculum (30 Hours)

Organizational Leadership Core (18 Hours):

  • LEAD 6101 - Personal Leadership Development
  • LEAD 6102 - Organizational Communications
  • LEAD 6103 - Leadership Theory and Practice
  • LEAD 6104 - Leading Change and Innovation
  • LEAD 6105 - Negotiation Skills
  • LEAD 6106 - Team Building and Dynamics

Select a Concentration (12 Hours):

Executive and Workplace Coaching (Graduate)

Human Resource Management (Graduate)

Learning and Development (Graduate)

  • Tuition is $665 per credit hour.
  • Technology fee is $27 per credit hour.
  • Graduation Fee is $175.
  • Observed Coaching Session Fee is $250.
  • Books and supplies are not included.

What can you do with a MAOL?

Consultants

A Master of Arts in organizational leadership equips graduates to excel as consultants, providing strategic guidance and leadership expertise to organizations seeking to optimize their operations and achieve sustainable growth. Graduates gain proficiency in conducting assessments, facilitating change management initiatives, and enhancing organizational effectiveness through informed decision-making and collaboration. 

Entrepreneurs

As entrepreneurs, graduates leverage their knowledge and skills to launch and sustain successful ventures. This program equips entrepreneurs with a solid foundation in leadership, business acumen and strategic planning, essential for navigating the complexities of starting and growing a business. With a focus on adaptive leadership and entrepreneurial mindset, entrepreneurs apply their expertise to create value, foster innovation, and drive sustainable growth in dynamic and competitive markets.

Nonprofit leaders

In nonprofit leadership roles, graduates contribute to advancing missions and fostering social change within their communities. This program prepares nonprofit leaders with essential leadership competencies, including strategic planning, resource management and stakeholder engagement. Graduates are equipped to lead nonprofit organizations with integrity, efficiency and a commitment to serving vulnerable populations and addressing societal challenges. 

Catalog and Cost

View Classes Cost of Attendance

Contact Information


College of Education
501-279-4242
education@harding.edu

Mailing address:
Harding University
College of Education
HU 12254
Searcy, AR 72149-5615