Organizational Leadership

Graduate
Online
30 hours
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.

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

Graduate Certificates

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.

Graduate Certificate in Executive and Workplace Coaching

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.

Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management

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.

Graduate Certificate in Learning and Development

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.

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. 

View the Catalog

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Contact Information


501-279-4242

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