Does Strayer University Have an Online Organizational Leadership Degree? A Comprehensive Guide

Organizational leadership is a field that blends management, psychology, and communication to drive effective leadership in today’s complex business environments. With leadership being a highly sought-after skill in various industries, many individuals are looking for degrees that can help them build their leadership capabilities. The rise of online education has made it easier than ever for professionals and students alike to gain the knowledge they need without disrupting their current schedules or careers.

A common question for those interested in leadership roles is: Does Strayer University offer an online organizational leadership degree? In this guide, we will explore Strayer University’s offerings, whether it provides such a degree, and what other online programs are available for students interested in leadership. We’ll also delve into the value of earning a degree in organizational leadership and the career prospects associated with it.

Strayer University: A Quick Overview

Strayer University, founded in 1892, has grown into one of the nation’s prominent institutions offering degrees in business, technology, criminal justice, and public administration. Catering primarily to working adults, Strayer is known for its flexible learning options, especially its online programs, which provide students with the opportunity to further their education while managing work and personal responsibilities.

Strayer University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), a regional accrediting body that ensures its academic programs meet high-quality standards. The university emphasizes practical, career-focused education, making it a popular choice for students seeking degrees that lead directly to job opportunities.

Does Strayer University Offer an Online Organizational Leadership Degree?

Yes, Strayer University does offer an online degree in organizational leadership. Specifically, students can pursue a Master of Science (MS) in Management with a concentration in Leadership. This program is designed to help students develop the skills necessary to lead teams, manage change, and drive organizational success in a variety of settings.

While the program may not be named explicitly as “Organizational Leadership,” the MS in Management with a Leadership concentration covers many of the same core principles and objectives found in organizational leadership programs. It equips students with the knowledge to lead effectively, manage teams, and navigate the complexities of organizational change.

Program Structure and Curriculum

Strayer University’s MS in Management with a Leadership concentration is a flexible, fully online program that typically takes about two years to complete. The curriculum includes a variety of courses that focus on leadership theory, organizational behavior, strategic management, and ethical decision-making. Students will learn how to inspire and manage teams, implement strategic initiatives, and become influential leaders within their organizations.

Key courses in the program include:

• Leadership and Organizational Behavior: This course delves into leadership styles, motivation techniques, and organizational dynamics that impact the workplace.
• Strategic Management: Students learn how to formulate and implement strategies that ensure long-term success for their organizations.
• Managerial Communications: Effective communication is a cornerstone of leadership, and this course teaches students how to communicate with various stakeholders within an organization.
• Change Management: Managing change is crucial in today’s fast-paced business world. This course helps students understand how to lead organizations through periods of transformation.
• Business Ethics: Ethical leadership is essential, and this course focuses on fostering a strong moral foundation for decision-making in business settings.

This combination of courses ensures that students receive a comprehensive education in leadership that they can apply in real-world business situations.

Admission Requirements

To apply for the MS in Management with a Leadership concentration, prospective students must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Submit official transcripts
• Complete an online application form
• Provide a resume (preferred but not required in all cases)

There are no specific undergraduate degree requirements, making the program accessible to individuals from various academic and professional backgrounds.

Online Learning Experience

Strayer University is well-known for its robust online learning platform, which offers a high level of flexibility for students. The program is designed for working adults, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional responsibilities. Online classes at Strayer include a combination of:

• Asynchronous learning: Students can access course materials, lectures, and assignments at any time, making it easier to study according to their schedules.
• Interactive components: Discussion boards, group projects, and peer-to-peer interaction help to simulate a classroom environment and foster engagement.
• Dedicated support: Each student is assigned a success coach who provides personalized academic guidance and support throughout the program.

This flexible format makes Strayer’s leadership program an excellent option for students who require a high level of autonomy and prefer to study at their own pace.

The Value of an Organizational Leadership Degree

An organizational leadership degree is a versatile and highly valuable credential for individuals looking to advance in their careers, particularly in management and leadership roles. Organizational leaders are responsible for guiding teams, improving organizational efficiency, and navigating complex challenges. They must also inspire their teams to achieve organizational goals while adapting to changing environments.

Key Skills Developed

1. Strategic Thinking: Leadership programs focus on helping students develop long-term, strategic approaches to managing organizations and leading teams. Strategic leaders can anticipate changes, set clear goals, and plan for the future.
2. Effective Communication: Whether speaking with subordinates, colleagues, or executives, leaders must communicate effectively. Organizational leadership programs emphasize the development of strong communication skills, ensuring that graduates can articulate their vision and motivate teams.
3. Change Management: Change is constant in business, and leaders must be able to guide organizations through periods of transformation. Graduates of leadership programs are equipped to handle change management initiatives, helping businesses stay competitive and adapt to new challenges.
4. Team Development: Successful leaders must be adept at building and managing strong teams. Organizational leadership programs teach students how to foster collaboration, resolve conflicts, and create an environment where employees can thrive.
5. Ethical Decision-Making: In today’s business world, leaders are often faced with complex ethical dilemmas. Leadership programs emphasize ethical decision-making, ensuring that graduates can navigate these challenges with integrity.

Career Opportunities

Graduates with a degree in organizational leadership or a related leadership concentration have a wide range of career opportunities available to them. Leadership skills are in demand in nearly every industry, and employers are always looking for individuals who can guide teams, implement strategies, and improve organizational performance.

Some potential career paths for graduates include:

1. Operations Manager: Overseeing the daily operations of an organization, ensuring that resources are used efficiently, and implementing strategic goals.
2. Human Resources Manager: Leading HR teams to recruit, retain, and develop talent while managing organizational culture and employee relations.
3. Project Manager: Managing specific projects, ensuring that objectives are met on time and within budget. Project managers must also lead teams through project milestones.
4. Management Consultant: Advising organizations on improving their leadership structures, business processes, and overall performance.
5. Executive Leadership Roles: With experience and further education, graduates can aspire to executive positions such as CEO, COO, or CFO, where leadership and strategic decision-making are key responsibilities.

Salary Potential

Leadership roles typically come with competitive salaries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for management occupations was $109,760 as of 2023, significantly higher than the median annual wage for all occupations, which was $45,760. The demand for skilled managers and leaders continues to grow across industries, making this degree a valuable investment for long-term career advancement.

Alternatives to Strayer University for an Organizational Leadership Degree

If you are looking for alternative institutions that offer a more specialized focus on organizational leadership, several universities provide fully online degrees in this area:

1. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU): Offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Administration with a concentration in Organizational Leadership. SNHU also offers a Master of Science (MS) in Organizational Leadership, designed for students looking to deepen their understanding of leadership theories and practices.
2. Arizona State University (ASU): Provides an online Master of Leadership and Organizational Development. This program focuses on developing leadership skills specifically for the rapidly changing global workforce.
3. Penn State World Campus: Offers an online Master of Professional Studies in Organizational Development and Change, which combines leadership principles with practical strategies for managing organizational transformation.
4. Liberty University: Provides a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Business Administration with a Leadership focus, integrating leadership theories with Christian principles.

Each of these institutions provides an online learning experience similar to Strayer, with flexible schedules and a strong emphasis on leadership development.

Conclusion

Strayer University does offer an online Master of Science in Management with a Leadership concentration, which covers many key principles of organizational leadership. While not labeled specifically as an “Organizational Leadership” degree, the program provides students with the skills and knowledge to become effective leaders in a variety of industries.

For students looking to advance their leadership capabilities and pursue management roles, Strayer’s online leadership program is a strong option that balances flexibility with academic rigor. Additionally, students may want to explore alternative programs from other universities that offer specialized organizational leadership degrees to find the perfect fit for their career aspirations.

Ultimately, a degree in leadership opens the door to numerous career opportunities and provides the tools necessary to succeed in today’s competitive business world.