Organizational Leadership and Development, M.A.

The Maryville Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership and Development is a unique interdisciplinary program that prepares graduates for leadership and organizational development positions in corporate, not-for-profit, health care, and community organizations. Relative to an MBA program, the Organizational Leadership and Development program focuses on human processes in organizations as opposed to business processes. Graduates learn to apply evidence-based practices to improve organization effectiveness and employee well-being. Competencies developed include strategic planning, change leadership, organization assessment, conflict management, team effectiveness, and decision making. 

Careers in Organizational Leadership

Graduates will be uniquely prepared for entry or advancement in one of the many fast growing areas of:

• Organization Development
• Human Resources
• Organizational Leadership
• health Care Leadership

Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership and Development

The College of Arts and Sciences at Maryville University offers a 36 credit hour program (12 courses) leading to the Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership and Development. Advanced undergraduate students may also be eligible for the bridge program   that allows them to earn master’s credit for advanced undergraduate senior-level classes.

Program Features:

Flexibility - With flexible scheduling the program is designed to meet the needs of both the working professional and the recent college graduate. Two courses are offered one evening per week to provide you with the flexibility to balance your educational and professional responsibilities.

Integration of Theory and Practical Application - The program emphasizes the application of theory to professional practice. Students learn how to apply evidence-based approaches to address organizational challenges and critical issues. Each class is a practice lab where you learn not only theory, but have the opportunity to apply new skills, observe the impact of your actions and thinking, and make modifications that can be applied in your organization. 

Choose your Focus - The program provides tailored learning experiences to meet individual career goals. Research and applied projects and elective courses can be tailored for specific career objectives. Consider the following examples:

• A student wishing to pursue a career in Organization Development could take courses in the Organizational Development Consulting Practicum and Leadership and Adult Development.
• A student wishing to pursue a career in Health Care Leadership could take courses in Health Care communication and Management.
• A student wishing to advance into an Organizational Leadership role in his or her organization could take graduate courses in Management, Business, or Strategic Communication.
• A student wishing to pursue a craeer in Talent Management or Human Resources could take elective courses in Talent Management and Human Resource Management.

Professional Networking - Joining the program connects you to a strong and supportive network of professionals, alumni, and faculty committed to your professional growth and development. You will progress through a thoughtfully sequenced series of courses with the same colleagues and develop multiple learning relationships.