collageReach the peak of graduate studies in leadership with the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Organizational Development and Leadership from Ashford University. This doctorate in organizational development will demonstrate your ability to assess organizations by relying on research and evidence. You will also develop your ability to anticipate the impact of strategic initiatives and organizational change. Then you will pursue more advanced courses with research, statistics, and measurement, as you work toward your dissertation. This PhD in organizational development is designed with the working professional in mind, as many of the concepts and theories learned can be practical to your current or future career.
In your PhD in Organizational Development and Leadership, you will create your own development solutions and evaluate them based on human performance technology. You will also evaluate diversity in organizations as a competitive advantage. Your coursework includes discovery and applications in areas such as performance management, organizational change, employee motivation, executive coaching, ethics, and more. When you graduate with the PhD in Organizational Development and Leadership you will be able to:
- Design research applicable to individuals, teams, and organizations using evidence-based methods and principles of ethical psychological research
- Assess the influence and impact of social, emotional, and cultural dynamics on organizational strategy, innovation, learning, growth, and competitive advantage
- Create evidence-based systems and strategies associated with organizational performance, structure, and development, human performance, behavior and learning, and growth and innovation
- Evaluate concepts, skills, and initiatives that are fundamental to the ethical practice of diverse and multicultural organizations and organizational leaders
- Appraise the complexity of organizational development systems and functions as an effective change agent through implementation of evidence-based interventions and psychological research in complex, multicultural teams and organizations
- Assess the impact of organizational development policies, practices, strategic initiatives, innovation, and change processes in teams and organizations
- Design appropriate organizational learning and development solutions influenced by principles of human performance technology and industrial and organizational psychology
- Apply leadership skills that are appropriate for a variety of complex, multicultural team and organizational settings
The PhD in Organizational Development and Leadership includes 10 core courses, plus one (1) elective research course, six (6) specialization courses, and a capstone seminar. The coursework leads up to your doctoral dissertation, which includes two (2) dissertation planning courses as well as five (5) units of the dissertation course. All of your organizational development courses are instructed by experienced faculty members who all have earned doctorates themselves. Their experience in the field allows them to develop and deliver a high-quality online education to you.
Core, Research, Capstone, and Dissertation Course Requirements: (44 credits)
The United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a ten percent employment growth for all training and development managers over the next eight years. Organizational leaders fall under this umbrella of occupations. The job growth is likely due to the constant need for workplace training and education. The highest leadership roles require education and experience. Thankfully, doctorate in organizational leadership online programs are now available.
Top 30 Online PhD or Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Programs Methodology
We looked at approximately 140 colleges and universities listed by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offered at least one doctorate in organizational leadership online program, or a closely related degree. We narrowed our school selection by applying the following criteria: national or regional rankings with a major publication like U.S. News and World Report, and graduate program cost of less than $50,000 per year. We then listed the schools in order of raw affordability.
Below is our list of the top 30 PhD or doctorate in organizational leadership online programs.
#30 – Vanderbilt University
Online Ed.D. in Leadership and Learning in Organizations
Nashville, Tennessee
Vanderbilt University offers a doctorate in organizational leadership online program that is ranked and accredited.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $46,297
Vanderbilt University offers a doctorate in organizational leadership online degree program designed for working professionals. The 54-credit program takes three to four years to complete and requires a capstone project and yearly on-campus immersions. Curriculum covers three key competency areas, including data and analytics, leadership and organizational development, and learning and design. Organizational leadership courses include ethics of leadership, leadership theory and practice, leading diverse organizations, learning in organizations, and organizational theory and behavior. Admission requires an earned bachelor’s from an accredited college or university, a master’s degree or 30 credit hours of graduate classes, satisfactory GRE or GMAT scores with strong evidence of verbal and quantitative ability, and evidence of successful leadership experience. U.S. News and World Report ranks Vanderbilt #14 in best national universities and #7 in best value schools.
#29 – University of Southern California
Online EdD in Organizational Change and Leadership
Los Angeles, California
USC’s doctorate in organizational leadership online is an Ed.D. degree.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $44,013
An online PhD in organizational leadership or an EdD in organizational leadership like the one offered at University of Southern California can lead to top level leadership positions. The online Ed.D. program at USC is delivered through a blend of online interactions and real-world experience. Coursework covers topics like creating communities of interest, human lifespan development, learning and motivation, media selection and evaluation, and research design and data analysis. The program is open to students with or without a master’s degree. Students with a master’s only take 43 units to complete the degree while students without a master’s must complete 60 units. U.S. News and World Report ranks USC #22 in best national universities and #37 in best value schools.
#28 – Baylor University
Online EdD in Learning and Organizational Change
Waco, Texas
Baylor University’s doctorate in organizational leadership online program takes 36 months to complete.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $32,832
The online organizational leadership PhD programs at Baylor University are open to experienced professionals and educators who want to provide a positive change in school systems and organizations. The program requires 61 credits that can be completed in 36 months or by following a flexible schedule. Weekly online classes utilize webcams and allow students face-to-face interaction with their peers and professors. Courses include curriculum design and instruction, dynamics of organizational change, professional development, and program assessment and evaluation. Admission requires a master’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university and a strong GPA of at least 3.0. U.S. News and World Report ranks Baylor #78 in best national universities and #57 in best value schools.
#27 – The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Online PhD in Organizational Leadership
Chicago, Illinois
Full-time and online! Chicago School of Professional Psychology’s doctorate in organizational leadership online program.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $28,927
The Chicago School offers a PhD in organizational leadership online degree program ideal for working professionals who want to become better leaders. The program is full-time, fully online, and can be completed in three years. Admission to the program requires three or more years of work experience (preferred), a statement of research, official transcripts, and a master’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Classes are delivered online and include emerging theories of leadership, envisioning the new health and human service organizations, and management philosophy and practice. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology has been accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission since 2011 and offers one of the top programs on our list.
#26 – Northeastern University
Online EdD in Organizational Leadership Studies
Boston, Massachusetts
Northeastern University – a top ranked school for your leadership PhD online.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $23,688
Northeastern University’s doctorate in organizational leadership online degree program is NEASC-accredited and takes three to four years to complete. The online EdD in organizational leadership studies is available as a part-time or full-time program. The organizational leadership concentration prepares leaders and professionals to transform corporate, government, and nonprofit organizations. Courses are delivered online and include contemporary models of leadership, global perspectives of organizational culture, and organizational theory and design. Admission to the EdD program requires at least three years of work experience in a related field and two professional recommendations. U.S. News and World Report ranks Northeastern #44 in best national universities and #72 in best value schools.
#25 – Nova Southeastern University
Online EdD in Organizational Leadership
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Nova Southeastern offers a doctorate in organizational leadership online that consists of 54 credits.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,419
One of the top online PhD in organizational leadership programs on our list is the online EdD at Nova Southeastern University. The program is open to practicing professionals with a background in education, though individuals with a master’s degree in any discipline may apply. A total of 54 credits are required. Courses are delivered online and include critical thinking for decision making, emerging theories of organization leadership, organizational behavior and human development, and virtual and global leadership. Twelve credits of research courses are also required. U.S. News and World Report ranks Nova #191 in national universities. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #131 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#24 – University of Illinois
Online EdD in Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership
Champaign, Illinois
The online organizational leadership EdD program at University of Illinois is accredited and ranked.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,224
University of Illinois offers an accredited online organizational leadership PhD type program that includes an EdD and studies in education policy, organization, and leadership. Qualifying applicants should hold a previously earned master’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Classes are delivered online and include assessment for learning, e-learning ecologies, learning and human development, and new learning. One research methods course is also required. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of Illinois #46 in best national universities. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #25 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#23 – Northcentral University
Online PhD in Organizational Leadership
San Diego, California
Northcentral University offers an online PhD in organizational leadership that takes 45 months to complete.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,526
One of the top online organizational leadership PhD programs on our list include the PhD at Northcentral University. The program consists of 60 credits and can be completed in 45 months. A total of 20 courses are required for the completion of the program. The program covers the evaluation of major theories in leadership and how they are applied to the field of organizational leadership within any organization. The small class size allows students to have direct interaction with doctoral faculty and peers. U.S. News and World Report recognizes Northcentral University among the unranked national universities. The online graduate education programs rank #224-#291 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#22 – Eastern University
Online PhD in Organizational Leadership
Saint Davids, Pennsylvania
Eastern University offers a fully online PhD in organizational leadership.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,750
The PhD in organizational leadership online program at Eastern University offers a concentration in nonprofit and public administration. This fully online degree covers topics like advancement and fundraising for nonprofit, advocacy and public policy, collaborative leadership and partnership, and strategic management of nonprofit organizations. While the PhD program is online, residencies at the main campus are required. According to the program website, three residencies per year are customary. For those interested in business or education, concentrations are also offered. U.S. News and World Report ranks Eastern University #74 in best regional universities in the North.
#21 – Fielding Graduate University
Online PhD in Organizational Development and Change
Santa Barbara, California
Fielding Graduate University offers an online PhD in organizational leadership.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,292
Fielding Graduate University offers a doctorate in organizational leadership online degree program designed for scholar-practitioners who want to expand their knowledge of organizational development and change. The distance-learning environment allows students the freedom to work while earning their PhD. Classes are delivered online and include evidence-based coaching, inclusive leadership for social justice, leadership for social and ecological sustainability, and organization development. Optional concentrations are offered so that students may tailor their PhD toward an area of interest. These concentrations include evidence-based coaching, inclusive leadership for social justice, leadership for social and ecological sustainability, media and technology, and organization development.
#20 – Franklin University
Online EdD in Organizational Leadership
Columbus, Ohio
Strong graduate GPA is a must for admission to Franklin University’s doctorate in organizational leadership online program.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,816
Franklin University’s online organizational leadership PhD programs include the EdD or Doctor of Education degree. Individuals may transfer up to 24 previously earned credits and finish the degree faster than most doctorates on our list. The EdD in organizational leadership online program is designed to be completed in just three years, including one year for the dissertation. Courses are delivered online and include applied statistics, change management and organizational development, innovative learning environment design, and strategic assessment and decision making. Admission requires an earned master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a 3.0 GPA. U.S. News and World Report recognizes Franklin as an unranked business school.
#19 – Concordia University
Online EdD or PhD in Organizational Leadership
River Forest, Illinois
Choose from either an Ed.D. or Ph.D. in organizational leadership online degree at Concordia University.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,360
One of the top online PhD in organizational leadership programs on our list is offered by Concordia University. The EdD/PhD program consists of 61-67 credits and can be completed entirely online. Depending on which track you choose, particular classes are required. Also, the PhD track requires extensive research and statistics courses that also cover analysis and design. A comprehensive exam and dissertation are also required. U.S. News and World Report ranks Concordia #72 in best regional universities in the Midwest and #44 in best value schools. Also, several of the school’s online graduate programs are ranked among the top 100 and top 200 programs by U.S. News.
#18 – City University of Seattle
Online EdD in Leadership
Seattle, Washington
City University of Seattle online Ed.D. in leadership covers classes in organizational leadership.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,264
City University of Seattle offers a leadership EdD that might appeal to those seeking online organizational leadership PhD programs. The online Ed.D. in leadership is designed to equip professionals with the skills needed to address the vast leadership challenges of today. Three concentrations are also offered for students to further tailor their doctoral degree. These concentrations include higher educational leadership, organizational leadership, and specialized study. Courses for the organizational leadership concentration include collaborative coaching, leading in a global environment, and managing complexity in organizations. U.S. News and World Report recognizes City University among the top unranked regional universities in the West.
#17 – University of La Verne
Online EdD in Organizational Leadership
La Verne, California
University of La Verne’s doctorate in organizational leadership online degree consists of 18 courses.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,806
One of the top schools for an online organizational leadership PhD or EdD is University of La Verne. The online EdD in organizational leadership consists of 18 courses that emphasize leadership core topics and research. Courses are delivered online and include topics in leadership, team building, research, personal and interpersonal leadership, and organizational development. While the program delivers mostly technology-based learning experiences, face-to-face learning is also offered. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of La Verne #136 in best national universities and #50 in best value schools. La Verne is one of the most affordable schools on our list.
#16 – Colorado Technical University
Online PhD in Organizational Development and Change
Aurora, Colorado
Colorado Tech’s affordable online PhD in organizational leadership is a ranked and accredited program.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,803
One of the most affordable online organizational leadership PhD programs on our list is offered by Colorado Technical University. The Doctor of Management degree offers a specialization in organizational development and change. This program is a three-year, 100-credit, online degree. Students complete online curriculum with a residency component. Courses include application of action research, current topics in organizational development, leading and managing large scale transformation, organizational strategy and design, and system thinking and decision making. U.S. News and World Report recognizes Colorado Tech as an unranked regional university in the West. Also, the online graduate business programs rank #108 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#15 – Cornerstone University
Online EdD in Organizational Leadership and Development
Grand Rapids, Michigan
For emerging leaders – Cornerstone University’s doctorate in organizational leadership online degree.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,726
One of the top PhD in organizational leadership online programs on our list is the EdD in organizational leadership and development from Cornerstone University. The program is designed for both emerging leaders and established professionals who want to exhibit effective leadership in an organization. Program length is three to four years. Students complete online courses and three multi-day intensives throughout the program. Admission requires a master’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university and a minimum of five years of professional experience. U.S. News and World Report ranks Cornerstone #106 in best regional universities in the Midwest.
#14 – Argosy University
Online EdD in Organizational Leadership
Phoenix, Arizona
Courses delivered online – Argosy’s doctorate in organizational leadership online program.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,656
A doctorate in organizational leadership online degree is offered by Argosy University. This fully online EdD program is designed to meet special requirements for working professionals who want to develop and enhance leadership skills. Admission requires an earned graduate degree from an accredited college or university with a 3.0 GPA in work leading to the master’s degree. Courses are delivered online and taught by Argosy’s experienced faculty. These courses include conflict management, foundations of leadership, organizational consultancy and assessment, professional development in leadership, and team development and leadership. U.S. News and World Report recognizes Argosy as an unranked but top national university.
#13 – Regent University
Online PhD in Organizational Leadership
Virginia Beach, Virginia
The 60-credit online PhD in organizational leadership at Regent University requires minimal residencies.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,326
Regent University offers an accredited online PhD in organizational leadership that consists of 60 credits. This program offers online courses and requires two four-day residencies. Regent’s doctorate is a research-based terminal degree with curriculum taught from a Christian worldview. All courses are delivered online and include advanced analysis, contemporary perspectives in organizational theory, organizational behavior, organizational theory and design, and trends in organizational leadership research. Admission requires earned master’s and bachelor’s degrees, writing quality, documented leadership and work experience, and official transcripts. U.S. News and World Report rank Regent #201 in best national universities. Also, the online graduate business programs, including organizational leadership, rank #70 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#12 – Southeastern University
Online PhD in Organizational Leadership
Lakeland, Florida
Ranked and affordable – Southeastern University’s online PhD in organizational leadership.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,960
One of the most affordable online organizational leadership PhD programs on our list is offered by Southeastern University. The program combines online courses with periodic one-week intensive classes that allow students to earn their PhD in a condensed period of time. The program requires a total of 60 credits and either a dissertation or capstone project. Courses include cultural intelligence, ethical leadership, leadership theory, motivation and influence, organizational change and strategies, organizational systems and management, servant and authentic leadership, and situational and transformational leadership. Admission requires a regionally accredited graduate degree with at least a 3.0 GPA and official transcripts. U.S. News and World Report ranks Southeastern #107-#141 in best regional universities in the South.
#11 – Brandman University
Online EdD in Organizational Leadership
Irvine, California
A fully online doctorate! Brandman University’s doctorate in organizational leadership online program.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,880
One of the best online organizational leadership PhD or EdD programs on our list is offered by Brandman University. The school’s EdD in organizational leadership is a fully online doctorate open to emerging and existing leaders. Admission requires transcripts documenting a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Classes are delivered online and taught by Brandman faculty. These classes include diversity and intercultural aspects of leadership, organizational communication and conflict management, organizational theory and development, the ethics and politics of decision making, and the leader as change ethics. U.S. News and World Report ranks Brandman among the best regional universities in the West and #6 in most innovative schools.
#10 – Cabrini University
Online PhD in Organizational Development
Radnor, Pennsylvania
For full-time working professionals! Cabrini University’s doctorate in organizational leadership online degree.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,610
Cabrini University’s PhD in organizational leadership online degree program is open to mid- and senior-level executives from all industries and sectors of the workplace. Two completion pathways allow students to select either a more theoretical (DBA) or a research-based degree (PhD). Both programs are designed to complete the degree in just three years. Starting summer of 2019, applications for admission may be completed and submitted on a rolling basis. After a one-week intensive introduction each year, classes meet face-to-face once a month for individuals working full-time. U.S. News and World Report ranks Cabrini #132 in best regional universities in the North.
#9 – Ashford University
Online PhD in Organizational Development and Leadership
San Diego, California
Ashford University’s online PhD in organizational leadership program requires completion of a dissertation.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,514
Ashford University’s online PhD in organizational leadership is designed to prepare working professionals for careers in leadership. The PhD program relies on evidence-based practice and research, consisting of 62 credits and six- and nine-week classes. Several specialization options allow students to further tailor their studies. These specializations include innovation and entrepreneurship, organizational diversity, standard organizational development and leadership, and training and e-learning. Research design and methods along with a dissertation are required of the program. U.S. News and World Report recognizes Ashford University among the unranked regional universities in the West. The school is accredited and offers one of the most affordable PhD in organizational leadership online degree programs on our list.
#8 – Indiana Wesleyan University
Online PhD in Organizational Leadership
Marion, Indiana
A Christ-centered PhD. Indiana Wesleyan University offers an online PhD in organizational leadership.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,392
Indiana Wesleyan University’s online organizational leadership PhD program provides a Christ-centered, innovative, and challenging doctoral program designed for working professionals. While classes and discussions are attended online, three one-week summer residencies must be completed. Courses include advanced leadership theory, advanced research design, application of research methods, critical inquiry, leadership and personal development, organization theory and design, qualitative research methods and analysis, and statistical research design. Admission requires a master’s degree from an accredited institution and graduate GPA of 3.0 or better. U.S. News and World Report ranks Indiana Wesleyan #32 in best regional universities in the Midwest and #67 in best value schools.
#7 – Grand Canyon University
Online EdD in Organizational Leadership
Phoenix, Arizona
Grand Canyon University’s online EdD in organizational leadership is a 60-credit program.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,555
One of the most affordable online organizational leadership PhD programs on our list can be found at Grand Canyon University. The online EdD in organizational leadership offers an emphasis in organizational development. This 60-credit program consists of eight-week classes that move at a rigorous pace. Courses include approaches to research design and data analysis, developing the research proposal, ethical dilemmas and stewardship, individual differences and organizational outcomes, leading across cultures, and strategic planning and change. U.S. News and World Report ranks Grand Canyon University #230-#301 in best national universities. Also, several graduate programs, including education, have received recognition from U.S. News and World Report.
#6 – Touro University
Online PsyD in Organizational Leadership
Los Alamitos, California
100% online – Touro University’s doctorate in organizational leadership online program.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,000
Touro University’s doctorate in organizational leadership online program is a uniquely designed doctoral degree in psychology with organizational leadership concentration. The program is 100% online and requires no residency. Admission requirements do not include the GRE, though a master’s from an accredited institution and cumulative GPA of 3.4 or better must be submitted. What makes this program unique is that the instructors are scholar-practitioners who are actively involved in their own professional work. Along with online course completion, students must also conduct research and prepare and present a dissertation in order to meet degree requirements. Touro is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUS).
#5 – Colorado State University
Online PhD in Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change
Fort Collins, Colorado
Designed for working professionals! Colorado State University’s doctorate in organizational leadership online program.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,000
Colorado State University’s PhD in organizational leadership online program consists of 60 credits which may be earned in 3.75 years. The program offers a unique structure of bi-weekly Saturday meetings held face-to-face in downtown Denver. Some classes, though, are delivered online. The program is designed for working professionals, academics, and executives who want to develop their research expertise. Courses include evaluation and assessment in organizational learning, foundations of educational research, qualitative data analysis, qualitative research, quantitative data collection methods and analysis, scenario planning in organizations, and systems leadership. U.S. News and World Report ranks Colorado State #140 in best national universities and #141 in best value schools.
#4 – Liberty University
Online PhD in Education – Organizational Leadership
Lynchburg, Virginia
100% online – Liberty University’s doctorate in organizational leadership online program is one of the most affordable on our list.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,723
Liberty University’s online organizational leadership PhD consists of 60 credits and can be completed in just three years. Courses are delivered 100% online and run eight weeks in length. These courses include organizational analysis and problem solving, strategic organizational change, strategic risk management process and practice, and theories of educational leadership. Successful admission includes several requirements. Applicants must have a regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree with a GPA of at least 3.0. Official college transcripts, statement of purpose, and proof of English proficiency are also required. U.S. News and World Report ranks Liberty #230-#301 in best national universities.
#3 – Wilmington University
Online EdD in Organizational Leadership, Learning and Innovation
New Castle, Delaware
Wilmington University’s doctorate in organizational leadership online program is for working professionals.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,438
One of the most affordable online organizational leadership PhD programs on our list is the EdD in organizational leadership from Wilmington University. This fully online program is designed to prepare students to lead learning initiatives at the organizational level. The doctorate is customizable and offers three concentrations to align with your professional goals. These concentrations include strategic leadership, talent development, or workplace learning. Classes are delivered entirely online and are taught by university professors. These courses include organizational learning theory, culture and practice; personal mastery and communities of practice; talent development and workplace learning; and technology and organizational learning. U.S. News and World Report ranks Wilmington #230-#301 in best national universities.
#2 – Valdosta State University
Online EdD in Leadership
Valdosta, Georgia
Valdosta State University offers a 55-credit doctorate in organizational leadership online degree.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,628
One of the top online PhD in organizational leadership and EdD in leadership programs on our list is offered by Valdosta State University. The program consists of 55 credits with courses delivered exclusively online. Courses are taught by university professors and include leadership problems – interdisciplinary analysis, organizational theory and leadership, planning and change for leaders, and seminar in organizational leadership. Admission requirements include a master’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum graduate GPA of 3.5. GRE or MAT scores are also required. U.S. News and World Report ranks Valdosta State #230-#301 in best national universities.
#1 – Piedmont International University
Online PhD in Leadership
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
The #1 most affordable doctorate in organizational leadership online program on our list is offered by Piedmont International University.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,410
The most affordable doctorate in organizational leadership online program on our list is offered by Piedmont International University. The program offers three concentrations alongside the PhD in leadership so that students may tailor their degree to meet career goals. These concentrations include educational administration, ministry administration, and organizational management. Courses are delivered online and include aspects of leadership, conflict resolution, global leadership, grant writing management and program evaluation, leading leaders in multi-level organizations, and marketing for leaders. Admission requirements include an earned master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and two letters of reference (one academic and one professional). Piedmont International is an accredited institution and offers the most affordable doctorate in organizational leadership online program on our list.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with a PhD or Doctorate in organizational leadership online degree?
With a PhD or doctorate in organizational leadership online degree, you’ll have many career prospects. Doctor of Education degrees, or an Ed.D., will open doors to jobs in education, while the Ph.D. will offer a development, training, or business platform. Depending on your career focus, you should expect a favorable employment outlook.
Some career opportunities include:
Business professor: Postsecondary professors at four-year institutions hold a Ph.D. or doctorate in the field they teach. A Ph.D. with a concentration in organizational leadership will make you eligible for this role.
Education administrator: Educational administrators hold many titles. Deans, presidents, provosts, and vice presidents in education are important roles of secondary institutions.
Management analyst: Management analysts are found in any organization or business. Job details include finding problems and addressing issues that negatively impact efficiency in the organization. The more education you have in business and organizational leadership, the greater the responsibility and leadership capability you will be able to offer. This position is also commonly referred to as a management consultant.
Operations research analyst: If you enjoy collecting data and researching methods, the operations research analyst position may suit you well. This position helps to improve an organization’s infrastructure and design by analyzing issues and efficiency.
Training and development manager: Training and development managers look for ways to improve skills and knowledge of employees. This is usually a hands-on role with direct interaction among the organization’s staff.
How much money will I earn with a doctorate in organizational leadership online degree?
PayScale, a global compensation research company, reports that individuals with a doctorate or PhD in organizational leadership earn an average salary of $85,000. Individuals with an EdD in organizational leadership earn $88,000 on average per year.
Top organizational development managers, according to PayScale, earned $122,848 per year while the lowest ten percent earned $59,740. The average additional compensation for this job title, which includes bonuses and profit sharing, consisted of $3,000 to $8,000 per year.
Experience seems to impact earnings the most, as the more experience an individual has, the greater the compensation package. Overall, earnings with experience have a positive trend. Individuals with less than five years of experience can expect to earn an average total compensation of $76,000. The total compensation includes salary, bonuses, and profit sharing.
Mid-career organizational development managers with five to ten years of experience can expect to earn a total compensation of $87,000. Experienced organizational development managers with ten to twenty years of experience can expect to earn $97,000 per year. Mid-career and experienced managers generally oversee small to large teams and are responsible for employees. Those with the greatest years of experience, in excess of twenty years, can expect to earn a total compensation of $100,000 per year.
What is the job outlook for those with a doctorate in organizational leadership online degree?
Generally, the more educated an individual is in a particular field, the more likely they are to find a job. Training and development managers and organizational development managers are responsible for enhancing the knowledge of their employees. They are required to be educated so that they can train their organizational teams.
Employment of training and development managers is expected to grow by ten percent through the year 2026, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This growth is slightly faster than the average for all occupations. With the constant need for workplace training and development, job prospects should be favorable over the next several years.
Most job openings will stem from the need to replace organizational and development managers that leave the occupation. Individuals who retire will need to be replaced.
New technologies and industry innovations will promote the need for training and development managers. These managers will have attained the skills necessary to educate teams to carry out newly evolved industry practices. Learning technology is expected to be increasingly important to organizations with remote workers. Also, as companies become more reliant on social media and mobile learning, experts will be needed to train employees.
Individuals with a PhD or doctorate in organizational leadership online degree will offer a special set of skills needed to lead in a variety of organizations.
How long does it take to earn a PhD or doctorate in organizational leadership online degree?
The length of time it takes to complete a PhD or doctorate in organizational leadership online degree depends on the program. The average time is between three and five years. Accelerated online programs may take less time, approximately three years, while part-time programs require additional time.
When considering an online PhD program, it is important to assess the number of years it takes to complete the degree requirements. If you want to earn a PhD in as little amount of time as possible, full-time enrollment and accelerated options are available. However, if you are unable to take on a full load of study due to outside obligations such as work or family responsibilities, part-time options are available. Most part-time programs take three to five years to complete.
It is possible to find programs that take three years, though shorter options are not typically found. If you hold a master’s degree in organizational leadership, some programs may be willing to accept transfer credits, thus reducing the time it takes to complete the degree. The three-year average completion time consists of two years of study followed by one year of research and dissertation preparation. This is the typical format of most PhD or doctorate in organizational leadership online degree programs.
What is the difference between an Ed.D. and Ph.D. in organizational leadership online degree?
An Ed.D. or Doctorate in Education is a terminal degree that emphasizes the application of research and knowledge to real world organizational or educational issues. Unlike the Ph.D. or Doctorate of Philosophy, Ed.D. candidates use existing research to inform decision-making and practices that lead to improvement in the area of study. The Ph.D. focuses on the development of new research as opposed to existing research.
Another difference between the Ed.D. and Ph.D. in organizational leadership online degree is coursework or program requirements. The Ed.D. offers coursework such as the application of theory to educational problem solving or training and leadership from different perspectives. Most Ed.D. programs require the completion of 45-60 credits and are designed for students who have already earned a master’s degree in education.
Ph.D. coursework varies among programs, but most organizational leadership specializations cover topics that will enhance research acumen and techniques. Ph.D. candidates work with data and statistics as they conduct their own research projects and complete a dissertation. Most Ph.D. programs take four to six years to complete and require a dissertation or thesis.
Individuals who want to be involved in a research-based career should consider the online Ph.D. Ed.D. programs typically prepare candidates for less research-intensive careers, such as executives in education or school districts.
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