Nonprofit organizations and higher education institutions are among the largest employers in the US, yet trends predict a shortage of qualified leadership in the coming years. Wheelock's 30-credit online Master of Science in Organizational Leadership degree program offers working professionals a unique combination of theory, knowledge of practical applications to organizational issues, leadership skills, and applied knowledge that will qualify them for a wide range of leadership positions in nonprofit organizations, Nongovernmental Organizations (NGOs), and institutions of higher education.

A Graduate Degree Program for Leaders of a Global Environment

Through our focus on civic engagement and social justice, Wheelock is uniquely positioned to provide our online students with a perspective on leadership that is mindful of the increasing diversity and global scale of today's organizations. Our programs will help you develop the capacity to lead organizations in an increasingly global environment, while learning the skills necessary to build effective multicultural organizations.

At Wheelock, you will gain a unique combination of theory, knowledge, practical applications, and leadership skills that will help you take the next step in your career. All on a schedule that fits your busy life.

See the full Organizational Leadership Degree Curriculum

Student Learning Objectives and Assessments

The objectives of our MS in Organizational Leadership online program and the expectations for our online students are the same as those for their on-campus counterparts.

1. Students will develop a working knowledge of budgetary and financial management for nonprofit organizations. They will be assessed on their ability to:

• Develop a program budget and then modify the budget
• Develop a fundable program proposal with budget
• Develop an earned income development plan
• Complete the student capstone project as determined by the faculty project supervisor

2. Students will gain knowledge of leadership theories and styles and will develop an understanding of their own leadership style. They will be evaluated based on the following:

• Completion of a research paper on leadership
• A 360-degree evaluation of their leadership abilities and areas for growth
• Successful completion of the student capstone project as determined by the faculty project supervisor

3. Students will gain an understanding and a working knowledge of organizational governance and change. They will be evaluated based on:

• In-class assignments and two term projects
• Successful completion of the student capstone project as determined by the faculty project supervisor

4. Students will gain the skills and knowledge needed to lead a nonprofit organization and to address the challenges and issues that it may face in pursuit of its mission. They will be assessed based on:

• Class participation, written assignments, and term papers
• Successful completion of the student capstone project as determined by the faculty project supervisor