Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership - Online BAOL Degree Program | UMass Global
Source: https://www.umassglobal.edu/academic-programs/ba-organizational-leadership
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:10
Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership - Online BAOL Degree Program | UMass Global
Skip to main content
BA in Organizational Leadership
With theory-to-practice-oriented curriculum that applies to diverse career paths, the UMass Global bachelor’s in organizational leadership will prepare you for entry and mid-level supervisory roles.
Request Info
Develop Your Leadership Skills
Learn to become a dynamic, adaptable leader with this online Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership. Core foundation courses delve into organizational behavior and leadership, while core competencies focus on skills such as team building and organizational communication. You'll have the opportunity to add four electives from diverse areas such as human resource management, legal studies, psychology, and business to broaden your knowledge.
Fewer Core Requirements = Faster Completion:
This bachelor’s in organizational leadership features a streamlined core with 42 required credits, allowing you to maximize the use of electives and transfer credits to speed your degree completion.
Excellent Option for Transitions:
This BA in Organizational Leadership is an excellent degree for active-duty military members, transitioning military members, and civilians as well.
At a Glance
Online
120
Credits
$500/Credit
Help me estimate my cost
Next Start Date
Summer I (May 4, 2026)
Program Benefits that Benefit You.
Transfer Credits
Transfer up to 90 credits — up to 75% of your degree — and earn your bachelor’s in as few as 10 courses.
Immediate Impact
You don’t have to finish your degree to start making a difference in your organization. The BAOL was designed so that you can apply what you learn today on the job tomorrow.
100% Online Coursework
UMass Global’s 100% online Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership works for working adults.
Career Outlook for
BA in Organizational Leadership
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Data source: Lightcast™ 2026
www.lightcast.io
The pathway information provided through this website is based partly on U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics
data
licensed by the University of Massachusetts Global from Lightcast. While the University of Massachusetts
Global believes this data to be reliable, some of the data is based on estimates made by Lightcast when
actual
data is unavailable. Those estimates and the corresponding data may need to be corrected.
Change in employment projections 2022 - 2032
Based on BLS Occupational Employment Statistics and updated quarterly
The University of Massachusetts Global does not guarantee a job to graduates upon completion of any
program
Courses You Might Take
OLCC 414
Team Building
Team Building
OLCC 414
Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of team dynamics to organizational effectiveness, productivity, and communication within an organization.
MGTU 301
Principles of Management
3 Credits
Principles of Management
MGTU 301
|
3 Credits
This course examines the general systems theory; evolution of management theory; and interpersonal behavior in business organizations. Specific topics include motivation, leadership, value attitudes and organizational development.
OLCU 380
Research and Analytical Thinking
3 Credits
Research and Analytical Thinking
OLCU 380
|
3 Credits
This course provides students with knowledge and skills in research and analytical inquiry. Students are introduced to the principles and procedures involved in conducting research, interpreting and analyzing scholarly writing, and employing research to solve organizational problems and improve organizational performance. Academic writing skills including APA formatting are emphasized. BAOL students should take this course early in their degree program.
OLCU 303
Organizational Development and Change
3 Credits
Organizational Development and Change
OLCU 303
|
3 Credits
A review and analysis of organization development and change. Students will develop an understanding and use of organizational development and change theory from the perspective of systems theory and its constructs. Introduces organization change concepts, principles, values, theories and models.
COMU 410
Organizational Communication
3 Credits
Organizational Communication
COMU 410
|
3 Credits
This course is a comprehensive review of effective written and oral communication in academic and professional settings. Students build knowledge and skills in the process of researching and writing reports and preparing presentations that clearly communicate the intended message.
OLCU 350
Leadership and Professional Ethics
3 Credits
Leadership and Professional Ethics
OLCU 350
|
3 Credits
Examines frameworks for ethical judgment as well as contemporary dilemmas and moral issues in organizations, with a special focus on the role of professional ethics and the responsibilities inherent in the commitment to serve others. Topics include servant leadership, responsibilities of professionals, the obligations of corporations concerning the environment product safety, the rights of employees, honesty in advertising.
What is it like going to UMass Global?
Instructor-Led, Session-Based
This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed — no penalty. Courses include structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and coach interaction, making it ideal for one-on-one coaching support.
Personalized Support Services
UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.
Employer-Aligned Curriculum
At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.
Instructor-Led, Session-Based
This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed — no penalty. Courses include structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and coach interaction, making it ideal for one-on-one coaching support.
Personalized Support Services
UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.
Employer-Aligned Curriculum
At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.
Our Faculty
All Faculty
Evelina Atanassova, PhD
Associate Professor of Business Administration, Human Resources and Leadership
Evelina Atanassova PhD
Diana Echols, DM
Associate Professor of Business
Diana Echols DM
David Gonzalez, DPA
Associate Professor of Organizational Leadership
David Gonzalez DPA
Admission Requirements
Applicants for this program must complete the formal application process and submit required documents. Documents required vary based on the number of transferable credits and include:
0 – 11 TRANSFERABLE CREDITS
High school diploma or GED equivalent
Official high school transcript indicating the date of graduation
Provide official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended
12 OR MORE TRANSFERABLE CREDITS
A minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA
Provide official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended
Active military?
Admissibility and minimum transfer credit awarded will be determined based on the Community College of the Air Force, SMART, AARTS, or JST transcripts.
Start Strong with Support
Students with fewer than 12 credits or below a 2.0 GPA will take LBSU 100 (Student Success Strategies) during their first session to build a solid foundation for college success.
We support our
Military
Veterans!
Yellow Ribbon School
Recognized Military Friendly School
Founded to Serve Military Personnel
Check out our Military and Veterans pages and discover how we can support you in your educational journey.
Learn How
WASC Senior College and University Commission
University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Calculate Time and Cost
Ready to pursue your bachelor's degree?
Request Info
Apply
(800) 746-0082
Frequently Asked Questions
Organizational Leadership and Manager are related, yet they are also distinct concepts. The focus of each, while there is some overlap, are different. Here’s how.
Organizational Leadership
is primarily about setting a vision, inspiring others, and guiding an organization or team towards achieving long-term goals. Organizational Leadership emphasizes motivation, influence, and the ability to drive change. Organizational Leadership will lead the necessary changes when organizations need to adapt and evolve. Those in these positions play a key role in setting strategic goals and help shape and maintain an organization’s culture and values.
Management
is focused on day-to-day operations, ensuring the organization runs smoothly and efficiently. Management helps drive the organization forward toward the strategic goals set by leadership, but managers do this on a more granular level. Managers control resources, and handle planning and organizing to achieve short-term and long-term goals. You could think of managers as being responsible for the day-to-day workings of the organization as it strives to achieve the strategies set by leadership.
Students in the Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership address this question directly, as everyone who has come across a manager who is far from being a leader. Management degrees are focused on the granular day-to-day business environment, while Organizational Leadership considers bigger issues when leading people. Bottom line? The best managers have extensive training in leadership.
A Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership and a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a Leadership emphasis have distinct focuses, although they share some similarities in leadership education. Here are the key differences:
Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership
Focus
— Primarily emphasizes leadership theories, practices, and strategies within various types of organizations, including nonprofits, governmental agencies, and businesses.
Curriculum
— Includes courses in organizational behavior, change management, team dynamics, ethics, and communication. It often explores the human and cultural aspects of leadership.
Skills Developed
— Leadership, communication, conflict resolution, team-building, and strategic thinking.
Career Paths
— Suited for roles in human resources, training and development, non-profit management, public administration, and leadership positions across diverse organizations.
Bachelor of Business Administration with Leadership Emphasis
Focus
— Concentrates on business fundamentals alongside leadership skills, blending general business knowledge with limited leadership-specific education.
Curriculum
— Covers a broad range of business subjects such as finance, marketing, operations, and management, with additional courses focused on leadership and management skills.
Skills Developed
— Business acumen, financial literacy, marketing strategies, operations management, as well as leadership and team management.
Career Paths
— Prepares students for leadership roles within business contexts, such as management positions in corporate settings, entrepreneurship, and executive leadership.
Bottom Line
A Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership is more specialized in leadership skills applicable across various organizational types.
A Bachelor of Business Administration with a Leadership Emphasis provides a broader business education with a focus on leadership within the business context.
Choosing between the two depends on your career goals and whether you prefer a broader business foundation, or a more focused leadership skill set applicable in various organizational settings. At UMass Global, you can
choose
between a BA in Organizational Leadership, a BBA in Management & Organizational Leadership (in a self-paced, competency-based format), and a BBA in Organizational Leadership.
The great thing about a
BAOL
is that it is generally not industry-specific so students can apply their different backgrounds and look at how organizational leadership tools can be applied in any situation. The curriculum can include topics like marketing, HR, economics, ethics, team building, and finance.
Organizational leadership degrees are available at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree levels. Many universities like UMass Global also offer emphasis or concentration options within specialized programs. Some even have a variety of certificate options and courses that can be used for professional development.
Different from a business degree with a leadership emphasis, the UMass Global Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership builds a strong foundation in leadership, management, and organizational dynamics. These qualities make the BA in Organizational Leadership a versatile degree that can fit into various industries. Some of these roles would be more accessible if the person added an MAOL, but these are possible career options.
Human Resources
: HR managers, talent acquisition specialists, organizational development consultants
Management
: Operations managers, project managers, general managers
Nonprofit and Government
: Program managers, development directors, executive directors
Healthcare
: Healthcare administrators, patient care coordinators, quality improvement managers
Consulting
: Organizational consultants, management consultants
Although there are many types of leadership styles, the four most referred to are democratic, autocratic, laissez-faire, and transformational. Find out which style you gravitate toward the most with this
10 question quiz.
Testimonials
University of Massachusetts Global has allowed me to finish a dream I have had for over 16 years. It has allowed me to be the best mother, wife, coach, and mentor I could possibly be, all while being a great student.
Ashlyn M.
BA in Organizational Leadership
MyPath with UMass Global has been wonderful as a self paced BA for Business with emphasis on Organizational Leadership. It allowed me to balance full time work and school. Shout out for always supporting me anytime I reached out and all the guidance from the instructors.
Brandi C.
BA in Organizational Leadership
Each instructor led me to believe, by providing knowledge and resources, that I was capable of making positive impacts in the lives of people.
Angelo C.
Organizational Leadership, BA
UMass Global played a huge role in helping me turn obstacles into opportunities. The university supported me through my challenges with compassionate staff who understood my struggles, and the flexibility to adjust my program when life got overwhelming. UMass Global gave me the tools to achieve this degree, and for that, I will always be grateful.
Roman Raymond R.
Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership
An Online Education Built For You
Want More Information About Business?
Learn about business degrees, like BBA and MBA, then explore career options that fit your future.
Business Resources
Related Programs
All Programs
Learn More about Business Admin (Org Leadership), BBA
Instructor-Led
Leadership
Business Admin (Org Leadership), BBA
This business administration degree also introduces students to principles of organizational behavior, development and change, leadership theory, and team building. The UMass Global BBA in Organizational Leadership will prepare you for entry and mid-level supervisory roles.
Next Start Date:
May 4, 2026
Learn More
Business Admin (Org Leadership), BBA
Instructor-Led
This business administration degree also introduces students to principles of organizational behavior, development and change, leadership theory, and team building. The UMass Global BBA in Organizational Leadership will prepare you for entry and mid-level supervisory roles.
View Business Admin (Org Leadership), BBA
Learn More about Business Admin (Management & Org Leadership), BBA
Self-Paced
Leadership
Business Admin (Management & Org Leadership), BBA
Lead teams effectively with UMass Global's self-paced MyPath BBA in Management & Organizational Leadership. Complete unlimited courses per 6-month period.
Next Start Date:
Continuous Starts
Learn More
Business Admin (Management & Org Leadership), BBA
Self-Paced
This self-paced, competency-based degree program prepares students to develop their own leadership skills, philosophies, and ethics. Beyond a solid business foundation, graduates will demonstrate expertise in human resources, organizational structure, social responsibility, and project management.
View Business Admin (Management & Org Leadership), BBA
Learn More about Organizational Leadership, Certificate
Master's Pathway
5 Courses
Leadership
Organizational Leadership, Certificate
Strengthen your leadership impact with UMass Global's Graduate Certificate in Organizational Leadership. Complete 5 courses covering ethics, teams, and culture.
Next Start Date:
May 4, 2026
Learn More
Organizational Leadership, Certificate
Master's Pathway
5 Courses
This online certificate program is designed to develop the leader's conceptual and interpersonal skills, allowing them to improve their leadership skills, incorporating value-centered, service-driven principles into their everyday operating philosophies and styles.
View Organizational Leadership, Certificate
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MBA vs. Organizational Leadership: Determining the Degree to Meet Your Career Goals [Infographic]
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What Can You Do With a Master's in Organizational Leadership?
Skip to main content
BA in Organizational Leadership
With theory-to-practice-oriented curriculum that applies to diverse career paths, the UMass Global bachelor’s in organizational leadership will prepare you for entry and mid-level supervisory roles.
Request Info
Develop Your Leadership Skills
Learn to become a dynamic, adaptable leader with this online Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership. Core foundation courses delve into organizational behavior and leadership, while core competencies focus on skills such as team building and organizational communication. You'll have the opportunity to add four electives from diverse areas such as human resource management, legal studies, psychology, and business to broaden your knowledge.
Fewer Core Requirements = Faster Completion:
This bachelor’s in organizational leadership features a streamlined core with 42 required credits, allowing you to maximize the use of electives and transfer credits to speed your degree completion.
Excellent Option for Transitions:
This BA in Organizational Leadership is an excellent degree for active-duty military members, transitioning military members, and civilians as well.
At a Glance
Online
120
Credits
$500/Credit
Help me estimate my cost
Next Start Date
Summer I (May 4, 2026)
Program Benefits that Benefit You.
Transfer Credits
Transfer up to 90 credits — up to 75% of your degree — and earn your bachelor’s in as few as 10 courses.
Immediate Impact
You don’t have to finish your degree to start making a difference in your organization. The BAOL was designed so that you can apply what you learn today on the job tomorrow.
100% Online Coursework
UMass Global’s 100% online Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership works for working adults.
Career Outlook for
BA in Organizational Leadership
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Data source: Lightcast™ 2026
www.lightcast.io
The pathway information provided through this website is based partly on U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics
data
licensed by the University of Massachusetts Global from Lightcast. While the University of Massachusetts
Global believes this data to be reliable, some of the data is based on estimates made by Lightcast when
actual
data is unavailable. Those estimates and the corresponding data may need to be corrected.
Change in employment projections 2022 - 2032
Based on BLS Occupational Employment Statistics and updated quarterly
The University of Massachusetts Global does not guarantee a job to graduates upon completion of any
program
Courses You Might Take
OLCC 414
Team Building
Team Building
OLCC 414
Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of team dynamics to organizational effectiveness, productivity, and communication within an organization.
MGTU 301
Principles of Management
3 Credits
Principles of Management
MGTU 301
|
3 Credits
This course examines the general systems theory; evolution of management theory; and interpersonal behavior in business organizations. Specific topics include motivation, leadership, value attitudes and organizational development.
OLCU 380
Research and Analytical Thinking
3 Credits
Research and Analytical Thinking
OLCU 380
|
3 Credits
This course provides students with knowledge and skills in research and analytical inquiry. Students are introduced to the principles and procedures involved in conducting research, interpreting and analyzing scholarly writing, and employing research to solve organizational problems and improve organizational performance. Academic writing skills including APA formatting are emphasized. BAOL students should take this course early in their degree program.
OLCU 303
Organizational Development and Change
3 Credits
Organizational Development and Change
OLCU 303
|
3 Credits
A review and analysis of organization development and change. Students will develop an understanding and use of organizational development and change theory from the perspective of systems theory and its constructs. Introduces organization change concepts, principles, values, theories and models.
COMU 410
Organizational Communication
3 Credits
Organizational Communication
COMU 410
|
3 Credits
This course is a comprehensive review of effective written and oral communication in academic and professional settings. Students build knowledge and skills in the process of researching and writing reports and preparing presentations that clearly communicate the intended message.
OLCU 350
Leadership and Professional Ethics
3 Credits
Leadership and Professional Ethics
OLCU 350
|
3 Credits
Examines frameworks for ethical judgment as well as contemporary dilemmas and moral issues in organizations, with a special focus on the role of professional ethics and the responsibilities inherent in the commitment to serve others. Topics include servant leadership, responsibilities of professionals, the obligations of corporations concerning the environment product safety, the rights of employees, honesty in advertising.
What is it like going to UMass Global?
Instructor-Led, Session-Based
This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed — no penalty. Courses include structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and coach interaction, making it ideal for one-on-one coaching support.
Personalized Support Services
UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.
Employer-Aligned Curriculum
At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.
Instructor-Led, Session-Based
This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed — no penalty. Courses include structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and coach interaction, making it ideal for one-on-one coaching support.
Personalized Support Services
UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.
Employer-Aligned Curriculum
At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.
Our Faculty
All Faculty
Evelina Atanassova, PhD
Associate Professor of Business Administration, Human Resources and Leadership
Evelina Atanassova PhD
Diana Echols, DM
Associate Professor of Business
Diana Echols DM
David Gonzalez, DPA
Associate Professor of Organizational Leadership
David Gonzalez DPA
Admission Requirements
Applicants for this program must complete the formal application process and submit required documents. Documents required vary based on the number of transferable credits and include:
0 – 11 TRANSFERABLE CREDITS
High school diploma or GED equivalent
Official high school transcript indicating the date of graduation
Provide official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended
12 OR MORE TRANSFERABLE CREDITS
A minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA
Provide official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended
Active military?
Admissibility and minimum transfer credit awarded will be determined based on the Community College of the Air Force, SMART, AARTS, or JST transcripts.
Start Strong with Support
Students with fewer than 12 credits or below a 2.0 GPA will take LBSU 100 (Student Success Strategies) during their first session to build a solid foundation for college success.
We support our
Military
Veterans!
Yellow Ribbon School
Recognized Military Friendly School
Founded to Serve Military Personnel
Check out our Military and Veterans pages and discover how we can support you in your educational journey.
Learn How
WASC Senior College and University Commission
University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Calculate Time and Cost
Ready to pursue your bachelor's degree?
Request Info
Apply
(800) 746-0082
Frequently Asked Questions
Organizational Leadership and Manager are related, yet they are also distinct concepts. The focus of each, while there is some overlap, are different. Here’s how.
Organizational Leadership
is primarily about setting a vision, inspiring others, and guiding an organization or team towards achieving long-term goals. Organizational Leadership emphasizes motivation, influence, and the ability to drive change. Organizational Leadership will lead the necessary changes when organizations need to adapt and evolve. Those in these positions play a key role in setting strategic goals and help shape and maintain an organization’s culture and values.
Management
is focused on day-to-day operations, ensuring the organization runs smoothly and efficiently. Management helps drive the organization forward toward the strategic goals set by leadership, but managers do this on a more granular level. Managers control resources, and handle planning and organizing to achieve short-term and long-term goals. You could think of managers as being responsible for the day-to-day workings of the organization as it strives to achieve the strategies set by leadership.
Students in the Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership address this question directly, as everyone who has come across a manager who is far from being a leader. Management degrees are focused on the granular day-to-day business environment, while Organizational Leadership considers bigger issues when leading people. Bottom line? The best managers have extensive training in leadership.
A Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership and a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a Leadership emphasis have distinct focuses, although they share some similarities in leadership education. Here are the key differences:
Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership
Focus
— Primarily emphasizes leadership theories, practices, and strategies within various types of organizations, including nonprofits, governmental agencies, and businesses.
Curriculum
— Includes courses in organizational behavior, change management, team dynamics, ethics, and communication. It often explores the human and cultural aspects of leadership.
Skills Developed
— Leadership, communication, conflict resolution, team-building, and strategic thinking.
Career Paths
— Suited for roles in human resources, training and development, non-profit management, public administration, and leadership positions across diverse organizations.
Bachelor of Business Administration with Leadership Emphasis
Focus
— Concentrates on business fundamentals alongside leadership skills, blending general business knowledge with limited leadership-specific education.
Curriculum
— Covers a broad range of business subjects such as finance, marketing, operations, and management, with additional courses focused on leadership and management skills.
Skills Developed
— Business acumen, financial literacy, marketing strategies, operations management, as well as leadership and team management.
Career Paths
— Prepares students for leadership roles within business contexts, such as management positions in corporate settings, entrepreneurship, and executive leadership.
Bottom Line
A Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership is more specialized in leadership skills applicable across various organizational types.
A Bachelor of Business Administration with a Leadership Emphasis provides a broader business education with a focus on leadership within the business context.
Choosing between the two depends on your career goals and whether you prefer a broader business foundation, or a more focused leadership skill set applicable in various organizational settings. At UMass Global, you can
choose
between a BA in Organizational Leadership, a BBA in Management & Organizational Leadership (in a self-paced, competency-based format), and a BBA in Organizational Leadership.
The great thing about a
BAOL
is that it is generally not industry-specific so students can apply their different backgrounds and look at how organizational leadership tools can be applied in any situation. The curriculum can include topics like marketing, HR, economics, ethics, team building, and finance.
Organizational leadership degrees are available at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree levels. Many universities like UMass Global also offer emphasis or concentration options within specialized programs. Some even have a variety of certificate options and courses that can be used for professional development.
Different from a business degree with a leadership emphasis, the UMass Global Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership builds a strong foundation in leadership, management, and organizational dynamics. These qualities make the BA in Organizational Leadership a versatile degree that can fit into various industries. Some of these roles would be more accessible if the person added an MAOL, but these are possible career options.
Human Resources
: HR managers, talent acquisition specialists, organizational development consultants
Management
: Operations managers, project managers, general managers
Nonprofit and Government
: Program managers, development directors, executive directors
Healthcare
: Healthcare administrators, patient care coordinators, quality improvement managers
Consulting
: Organizational consultants, management consultants
Although there are many types of leadership styles, the four most referred to are democratic, autocratic, laissez-faire, and transformational. Find out which style you gravitate toward the most with this
10 question quiz.
Testimonials
University of Massachusetts Global has allowed me to finish a dream I have had for over 16 years. It has allowed me to be the best mother, wife, coach, and mentor I could possibly be, all while being a great student.
Ashlyn M.
BA in Organizational Leadership
MyPath with UMass Global has been wonderful as a self paced BA for Business with emphasis on Organizational Leadership. It allowed me to balance full time work and school. Shout out for always supporting me anytime I reached out and all the guidance from the instructors.
Brandi C.
BA in Organizational Leadership
Each instructor led me to believe, by providing knowledge and resources, that I was capable of making positive impacts in the lives of people.
Angelo C.
Organizational Leadership, BA
UMass Global played a huge role in helping me turn obstacles into opportunities. The university supported me through my challenges with compassionate staff who understood my struggles, and the flexibility to adjust my program when life got overwhelming. UMass Global gave me the tools to achieve this degree, and for that, I will always be grateful.
Roman Raymond R.
Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership
An Online Education Built For You
Want More Information About Business?
Learn about business degrees, like BBA and MBA, then explore career options that fit your future.
Business Resources
Related Programs
All Programs
Learn More about Business Admin (Org Leadership), BBA
Instructor-Led
Leadership
Business Admin (Org Leadership), BBA
This business administration degree also introduces students to principles of organizational behavior, development and change, leadership theory, and team building. The UMass Global BBA in Organizational Leadership will prepare you for entry and mid-level supervisory roles.
Next Start Date:
May 4, 2026
Learn More
Business Admin (Org Leadership), BBA
Instructor-Led
This business administration degree also introduces students to principles of organizational behavior, development and change, leadership theory, and team building. The UMass Global BBA in Organizational Leadership will prepare you for entry and mid-level supervisory roles.
View Business Admin (Org Leadership), BBA
Learn More about Business Admin (Management & Org Leadership), BBA
Self-Paced
Leadership
Business Admin (Management & Org Leadership), BBA
Lead teams effectively with UMass Global's self-paced MyPath BBA in Management & Organizational Leadership. Complete unlimited courses per 6-month period.
Next Start Date:
Continuous Starts
Learn More
Business Admin (Management & Org Leadership), BBA
Self-Paced
This self-paced, competency-based degree program prepares students to develop their own leadership skills, philosophies, and ethics. Beyond a solid business foundation, graduates will demonstrate expertise in human resources, organizational structure, social responsibility, and project management.
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Learn More about Organizational Leadership, Certificate
Master's Pathway
5 Courses
Leadership
Organizational Leadership, Certificate
Strengthen your leadership impact with UMass Global's Graduate Certificate in Organizational Leadership. Complete 5 courses covering ethics, teams, and culture.
Next Start Date:
May 4, 2026
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Organizational Leadership, Certificate
Master's Pathway
5 Courses
This online certificate program is designed to develop the leader's conceptual and interpersonal skills, allowing them to improve their leadership skills, incorporating value-centered, service-driven principles into their everyday operating philosophies and styles.
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