Organizational leadership is an emerging field of study, and ASU's Master of Science in organizational leadership is in the forefont nationally. The degree's focus is the complex challenges of managing public, private and not-for-profit organizations. Taking a scholarly approach to organizational leadership, it prepares students for doctoral study and/or professional leadership positions in many economic sectors by addressing both the theory and practice of leadership.

Students will first analyze, assess, critique, and apply a comprehensive body of scholarship and theories of organizational leadership. 

Courses address:

• organizational dynamics
• institutional evolution
• strategic change
• leading diverse teams
• collaborative governance
• conflict mediation
• critical problem-solving
• leadership assessment
• advanced methodological and statistical skills 

Students will then identify and apply appropriate research and analysis techniques to investigate complex organizational leadership problems and develop evidence-based solutions.

The 33-credit-hour program includes:

— 6 required courses
— 5 elective courses
— A culminating experience: choose either a master's thesis or an applied leadership project

Applied project option:
     Drawing on coursework, complete a case study of an organization of your choosing, where you identify and discuss the scope of the problem, the intervention to be undertaken, and the results of the intervention. Capstone Handbook [downloadable PDF]

Thesis option:
     Working closely with a faculty supervisor, identify, carry out, defend and publish original research (usually as a starting point for further doctoral study). Thesis Handbook [downloadable PDF file]

All courses are taught by faculty who hold terminal degrees in their fields. The degree may be completed at ASU Tempe campus or Online, and both on-ground and online students are eligible to be considered for graduate assistantships and teaching assistantships.

MS in Organizational Leadership Handbook

How to Apply

Candidates will submit:

Graduate admission application and application fee

Official transcripts (showing completion of a bachelor's degree or master's degree from a regionally accredited institution)

A letter of intent (500 words maximum) that includes a detailed statement of purpose addressing how the program goals coincide the student's personal and professional objectives.

Two letters of reference that focus on their ability to do academic work.

A professional resume or curriculum vita (two pages maximum).

For applicants whose native language is not English
TOEFL scores of at least 600 (traditional paper-based) or 100 (Internet-based), or a passing score in the English for Graduate Admissions online course through ASU Global Launch.

Admissions decisions are turned around within 10 days of application.

For additional information about eligibility, admission and degree requirements, or to apply now, visit the ASU degree page for the MS in Organizational Leadership.

Admission Deadlines  

Each year, the deadline to apply for the MS in organizational leadership for spring admission is Nov. 1 and for fall admission the deadline is May 1. For summer admission the deadline is Feb. 1. We continue to accept applications and admit students on a rolling basis throughout the year.