Online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership Programs 2024

A Ph.D. in organizational leadership is a research-focused doctoral degree exploring ethical leadership and cultural growth. Learn what to expect in this guide.
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Updated April 4, 2024

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An online Ph.D. in organizational leadership develops mentorship, change management, and cultural leadership skills through rigorous academic research and coursework. While a master's in organizational leadership prepares students for leadership roles by teaching career-specific skills, a Ph.D. is more research-oriented and theory-focused, often best for executives, policymakers, or academic professionals.

Students typically pursue organizational leadership doctoral degrees to move beyond traditional leadership roles into changemaker positions, like management consultants, human resources (HR) directors, or program administrators. The degree can also lead to professional opportunities across sectors, such as federal and state governments and financial services.

Continue exploring this page to learn more about an online Ph.D. in organizational leadership, its potential outcomes, and some degree options. Our methodology found all available options for online organizational leadership doctorates, but we ultimately highlighted those with a graduation rate of over 40%.

Featured Organizational Leadership Doctorate Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Programs

Online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership Programs 2024

Anderson University

  • Anderson, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $760
Out-of-State | $760

Credits to Graduate: 48

Anderson's online Ph.D. in leadership with a business concentration prepares graduates for high-level positions in both for-profit and nonprofit organizations. This program focuses on developing leadership models that can improve and expand organizational cultures of leadership.

AU's program focuses include organizational structures, leadership strategies and workplace culture development. Graduates go on to become corporate strategists, leadership consultants, executive coaches, talent leaders and executive leaders. Applicants need a master's degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$27,480
Out-of-state
$27,480
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,616
Out-of-state
$10,616
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
46%
Students Enrolled
4,111
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
61% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership Programs 2024

Concordia University-Chicago

  • River Forest, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $753
Out-of-State | $753

Credits to Graduate: 61-67

Concordia-Chicago's online Ph.D. and Ed.D. in organizational leadership programs focus on producing ethical leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the modern business world. Both programs provide expertise in contemporary leadership theory, strategic planning, and implementing change initiatives.

The scope and length of the P.h.D. and Ed.D. programs differ. The Ph.D. program is theoretical and abstract, research-focused and takes a "big picture" approach throughout 67 credit hours. In comparison, the Ed.D program is practical and applicable, action-based and focused over 61 credit hours.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$33,310
Out-of-state
$33,310
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,090
Out-of-state
$9,090
Retention Rate
57%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
6,086
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
84% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership Programs 2024

Johnson University

  • Knoxville, TN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $715
Out-of-State | $715

Credits to Graduate: 60

Johnson's online Ph.D. in leadership studies is for working adults interested in exploring leadership through various lenses. The program follows an interdisciplinary design with a focus on four dimensions of leadership studies: individual and personal systems, organizational systems, global systems and research. 

Students focus on articulating biblical, ethical, and philosophical foundations for leadership, demonstrating Christian character through leadership, and making original contributions to the field. Six elective tracks are available, including educational leadership, organizational leadership, and missional leadership.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$17,384
Out-of-state
$17,384
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,285
Out-of-state
$9,285
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
942
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership Programs 2024

National University

  • San Diego, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online

Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $328
Out-of-State | $328

Credits to Graduate: 60

NU's online Ph.D. in organizational leadership program offers flexible and individualized education, treating each student as if they were the only person in the class. Entrance exams are not a requirement, saving applicants time and money.

Graduates will be able to evaluate major theories and provide new knowledge to the field of organizational leadership. Major learning focuses include assessing theories related to leading organizations and addressing present-day organizational challenges.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,320
Out-of-state
$13,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,480
Out-of-state
$15,480
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
17,972
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
80% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

Online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership Programs 2024

Southeastern University

  • Lakeland, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $795
Out-of-State | $795

Credits to Graduate: 60

SEU's online Ph.D. in organizational leadership prepares students to become influential thought leaders in the field. The program covers various topics such as organizational systems, leadership models, and research methods.

The program offers opportunities for students to contribute to scholarly journals and give presentations at academic conferences. It combines online coursework with periodic in-person residencies and intensive week-long classes.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$27,320
Out-of-state
$27,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,000
Out-of-state
$12,000
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
9,966
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership Programs 2024

Tiffin University

  • Tiffin, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $800
Out-of-State | $800

Credits to Graduate: 60

TU Online's Ph.D. in global leadership and change focuses on building a global perspective and understanding of cultural uniqueness. It also covers skills in leadership, critical thinking, and research methods.

The program caters to working professionals, especially those who may need more time to complete the degree requirements. Students can take up to six years to finish the program and may request an additional course during any term based on their academic ability.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$27,780
Out-of-state
$27,780
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,600
Out-of-state
$12,600
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
2,934
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership Programs 2024

University of the Cumberlands

  • Williamsburg, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $415
Out-of-State | $415

Credits to Graduate: 60

Cumberlands' online Ph.D. in leadership studies focuses on theories and practices of organizational leadership. The curriculum includes courses on effective leadership, administrative methods, political factors in decision-making and global trends in leadership, applicable in settings like companies and nonprofits.

Cumberlands' programs help current educators obtain a Kentucky Rank 1 certification. Students can transfer up to 30 hours from an approved educational specialist (Ed.S.) program towards the university's leadership studies program. Students must complete the Ed.S. program first to be eligible for the certification.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,875
Out-of-state
$9,875
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,282
Out-of-state
$4,282
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
19,272
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
95% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership Programs 2024

Vanderbilt University

  • Nashville, TN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $2,245
Out-of-State | $2,245

Credits to Graduate: 54

Vanderbilt's online Ed.D. in leadership and learning in organizations program caters to mid-career professionals with at least three years of leadership experience and focuses on developing leaders who can drive positive systemic change in organizations across industries.

Students in the program will learn to use data analytics tools to create organizational growth. They will also develop skills in leadership and organizational development and learning and design. The program includes both online classes and on-campus gatherings.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,840
Out-of-state
$54,840
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$51,600
Out-of-state
$51,600
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
7%
Students Enrolled
13,796
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
11% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Why Get a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership Online?

  • An online doctorate program allows for more flexibility to balance coursework with other priorities.
  • Online programs often allow you to save money on tuition, housing, and transportation.
  • For working professionals, an online program expands access to top programs and faculty that are not locally available.
  • A Ph.D. in organizational leadership can bolster career options, advance your career, and increase earning potential.
  • Most programs feature concentrations that align with your academic and career goals.

Organizational Leadership Doctorate Degree Courses

The courses offered in an organizational leadership doctorate program can vary, but classes traditionally cover topics such as leadership theory, strategic leadership, and organizational behavior.

  • Leadership and Organizational Cultures: In this course, students explore the complex relationship between leadership and organizational culture. In addition to examining how leaders affect culture, you can also learn to create and sustain productive, ethical cultures that support organizational goals.
  • Human Resources Business Strategy: You'll examine the role of HR in driving business planning and performance. Grad students explore ways to evaluate workforce trends and align business goals with HR best practices. You'll also create strategies for talent management, organizational development, and staff engagement.
  • Global Issues and Leadership: This course explores how culture and history affect international leadership. Enrollees develop skills and knowledge essential to navigating business challenges in a globalized world. Students examine key world issues, cultural differences in business, and strategies for international collaboration.
  • Business Ethics in Leadership: This class covers workplace ethics while evaluating how organizational leaders foster ethical behavior. Students encounter various ethical theories, analyze case studies, and develop ways to create a culture that aligns with organizational values and business interests.
  • Dissertation and Capstone Planning: This course prepares doctoral students for their degree-culminating research projects. Degree-seekers develop research questions, review relevant academic studies, design studies, and craft proposals that mirror academic and professional standards. Upon completion, this research project should contribute to the organizational leadership field.

Organizational Leadership Concentrations

Most doctoral programs in organizational leadership allow students to choose an academic concentration that mirrors their academic and career goals. Concentrations can vary among programs, so be sure to prioritize programs that match your interests.

  • Human Resources

    Human resources departments aim to develop and train employees while enhancing productivity and performance. Students with an HR concentration can anticipate classes such as HR development, HR ethics, and autonomous learning and HR development. You may also learn about compensation guidance and business financial strategy.
  • Educational Administration

    Whether you're seeking administrative roles in higher education or K-12, an educational administration concentration focuses on the unique challenges of leading an academic institution. Some common courses include education law and finance, accountability in educational leadership and policy, and faculty development.
  • Nonprofit and Public Administration

    This concentration is ideal for students seeking leadership roles in nonprofit settings. You'll focus on the unique challenges linked to leading nonprofits, including developing community partnerships, fundraising, and community engagement.
  • Global Consulting

    This concentration prepares you for leadership roles in a global context. Coursework explores the unique challenges of leading diverse teams across geographic and cultural borders. You'll also focus on honing the communication and analytical skills required to solve complex organizational challenges.

What Can You Do With a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership?

With a Ph.D. in organizational leadership, you can pursue various career paths in academia, consulting, and executive leadership. The academic concentration you choose can have a significant impact on career options.

Those interested in academia often secure roles as professors or researchers in colleges and universities. Organizational leadership students pursuing roles in the private sector often work in corporate and nonprofit settings.

Earning a Ph.D. is a solid way to expand your career options and enhance your earning potential. Executives in corporate settings tend to make the most. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from May 2022, chief executive officers (CEOs) earn a median annual salary of $246,440.

Graduates working for nonprofits teaching at a college or university tend to earn less. BLS data indicates that college professors earned a median salary of $80,840 as of May 2022.

Organizational Leadership Careers
Job Average Annual Salary
Chief Diversity Officer $144,100
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) $246,440
Executive Director $100,090
Human Resources Manager $145,750
Nonprofit Director $64,400
Organizational Development Consultant $101,730
Professor $91,760
University Administration $115,180
Sources: BLS (May 2022), Payscale (March 2024)

Frequently Asked Questions About Organizational Leadership Degrees

What can you do with a Ph.D. in organizational behavior?

A Ph.D. in organizational leadership or behavior can lead to careers in human resources management, business consulting, and business analysis. This degree is an excellent option for professionals looking to improve organizational outcomes using their high-level research, policymaking, and leadership skills.

Is a Ph.D. in organizational leadership worth it?

Determining whether a Ph.D. in organizational leadership is right for you depends on personal factors. This degree has the potential to advance your career, increase your salary, and grow your expertise in the field of organizational leadership.

What is the difference between a Ph.D. and an Ed.D. in organizational leadership?

The primary difference between a Ph.D. and an Ed.D. in organizational leadership is their academic and professional focus. A Ph.D. program traditionally focuses on research and has an expansive list of professional applications. An Ed.D. degree prioritizes practical application in an educational environment.

How long does it take to get an online Ph.D. in organizational leadership?

The length of an online Ph.D. in organizational leadership can vary depending on the program and whether you're a part-time or full-time student. Generally, online organizational leadership Ph.D. students can graduate in 3-7 years. Additionally, some programs offer accelerated pathways that allow enrollees to graduate more quickly.

Are online Ph.D. programs respected?

So long as the school is accredited, online Ph.D. programs -- including those in organizational leadership -- are equivalent to campus-based programs and deliver the same diplomas. Still, not all online programs are created equally. Be sure to look for programs at accredited institutions and review our guide for the best online Ph.D. in organizational leadership programs.

Do you need a Ph.D. to be a CEO?

You do not need a Ph.D. to be a CEO, but they often come to the table with ample experience and specialized skill sets. Earning a Ph.D. in organizational leadership is one way to establish a set of leadership skills while enhancing your resume and expanding your professional network.

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