According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, all business and financial occupations—from financial advisors to training and development specialists—are projected to grow 7% between 2018 and 2028. All four pillars represent a “pursuit of mastery”; that is, through study and critical analysis we become more adept in each…But we never “know” everything there is to know or are “done” learning about them. Answer: Master of Business Administration (MBA) is the formal designation for master’s degree programs that provide general instruction in the fundamentals of business management, while MSOL refers to specialized Master of Science in Organizational Leadership degree programs that focus on the human aspects of running an organization, including personnel management, effective decision-making, … The OLL degree is broader in scope than an MBA. Why did I choose a Master’s in Organizational Leadership vs. an MBA? Other programs assume that in learning about finance or marketing their graduates will be effective leaders, able to create a learning organization, or successfully implement change. Unlike an MBA, which centers on data analysis and financial management, the curriculum for an online master's degree in organizational leadership examines how human interactions affect productivity and profit. The MS in Leadership will prepare you for a leadership position in any industry, whereas an MBA will help you develop business acumen to achieve specific business-related goals. Both the Master of Science in Organizational Leadership (MSOL) and the Master of Business Administration (MBA) have become popular degree options for managers seeking to move up the career ladder. If you are interested in working in a business management or leadership role, you have probably thought about the specific career you would like to pursue. Consider the following questions, and ask yourself how many times you’ve seen these situations play out in your job: Chances are that you’ve encountered at least one, if not all, of these scenarios. MBA vs MS: What’s the Difference . Organizational leadership orients itself more with professional development, effective communication, and quality human resources than it does with learning strategic business tactics. Some individuals earn a higher amount and others earn a lower annual salary. Courses teach skills such as finance, marketing, strategy and economics that are inherent in any business, in any sector. Most MBA programs share similar core courses, ones that graduates are certain to use. Two graduate-level options you commonly see in this realm are a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree and a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership (MAOL). In anticipation of this, most MBAs also offer 1-2 core courses in organizational behavior or leadership as a supplement. Graduate Trevor Airey explains why he choose Gonzaga University's Master's in Organizational Leadership over an MBA. An Executive Master of Leadership (EML) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree help professionals advance their career by providing real-world experience, developing 21st-century skills, and discovering applicable insights for every sector. In this way, it is truly about the journey and not the destination. in Leadership and Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree programs are very similar in length, format, and degree requirements. If you have any questions about the MAOL degree program or MBA degree programs, you can contact Point Loma Nazarene University for more information. When deciding between an MBA vs MS for your graduate degree in business, it’s important to understand the differences. When it comes down to making a decision between pursuing an MBA or MAOL, it is essential to consider the differences between the programs. For many, the choice comes down to a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and Management vs. an MBA. To help you decide whether you should pursue a master’s in human resource management or an MBA with a specialization in human resource management, ask … These are, in fact, the four pillars of our program (Khilji, 2015). In 2008, the Graduate Management Admission Council estimated there were more than 250,000 students enrolled in MBA programs and more than 100,000 MBA degrees awarded annually. Accounting, economics, finance, information technology, and other related courses will teach you how to analyze data for the purpose of making business decisions or solving problems. The MBA vs Master's with specialization dichotomy is worth looking into if you want to get … The Daytime MBA Program provides a great option for students looking to enroll full-time and graduate in 12 months. This could include things like finance and accounting, and other general business skills. Undergraduate Programs Graduate & Professional Programs Adult Degree Completion Programs, 3900 Lomaland DriveSan Diego, CA 92106(619) 849-2200. Ask yourself: if organizational learning or change just “happens” in the professional realm and does not require study, then why do these irritating scenarios occur with such frequency? The MSML program focuses on specialized management and leadership skills that are applicable to a range of business and organizational settings. If you want to better understand how you can apply organizational change to a company or organization, you can benefit by learning how to practically apply management philosophies to the workplace. This salary amount can vary based on geographic location, company, years of experience, and other factors. On the other hand, the Evening MBA Program is a better option for working professionals who prefer to take classes in the evenings. In the OLL program we do not assume that competence in these fundamental human processes will grow incidentally, or “along the way”, by studying other technical subjects. Learn the differences. The program is focused so you save tuition and time – with the ability to complete your master’s degree on a part-time basis in just five semesters, or around 19 months. Not all graduate degrees are created equal. When to Get an Organizational Leadership Degree Those with non-business-related bachelor’s degrees, such as communication or psychology, may be a better fit for an MSOL, says Bemski, while those with business bachelor’s should consider a traditional MBA. The Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership and Change from Pacific Oaks requires 30 credit-hours, of which 21 credits will be earned in core Organizational Leadership classes. The projected job outlook for these careers is higher than that of average careers, as the field continues to grow and demand more qualified managers and leaders. Whether a student hopes to lead a small local business in cornering the regional market or a multinational corporation, an organizational leadership master's degree equips them with the necessary expertise to do so. The Masters of Business Administration (MBA) is one of the most sought-after graduate degrees, for good reason. Organizational leadership programs help students develop skills essential to lead effectively and can prove a strong management-focused alternative to an MBA. If you have considered pursuing a position as a leader in any type of organization, you may have explored the option of earning an advanced degree in business management or leadership. While you can work as a business manager with an MAOL, you can also advance your career as a nonprofit organization leader, training and development specialist, school administrator, or human  resources manager, among other career options. MBA graduates are expected to employ this science to create value for their company, often in a leadership role. (“MBA … During MBA programs, students develop a foundation in different business disciplines, including marketing, finance, and economics. You may be wondering how CU Boulder’s MSOL differs from an MBA, ... development experiences. While an MBA enables success in the business realm, OLL enables success in any professional setting where two or more people are pursuing a common goal. However, the remainder of our courses focus not on the science of business, but the science and art of people in … Graduates often pursue professional roles in sales, marketing, consulting, human resources, and training. Leadership MBAs vs Related Degrees. When it comes down to making a decision between pursuing an MBA or MAOL, it is essential to consider the differences between the programs. The MBA (Master of Business Administration) degree program at WGU provides broad, integrated skills across all major business functions and activities, including economics, finance, accounting, operations, and marketing. In an MAOL … MBA vs Masters in Management, which one to choose? degree program is the best option for graduate students interested in leading social change within the cultural and political contexts of organizations. About the Author  The Masters in Organizational Leadership & Learning (OLL) from George Washington University also offers several core courses in organizational behavior and leadership. Customizable Program. The Masters in Organizational Leadership & Learning (OLL) from George Washington University also offers several core courses in organizational behavior and leadership. McKenna Themm earned her Bachelor of Arts in Literature and Writing and is currently pursuing her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing. In fact, students of these programs often advance to leadership roles in companies, just like MBA holders. Since the program is adjusted to accommodate a busier schedule, graduate students are enrolled in the part-time program for 24 months. However, the remainder of our courses focus not on the science of business, but the science and art of people in any organization. In anticipation of this, most MBAs also offer 1-2 core courses in organizational behavior or leadership as a supplement. An MAOL program can help you cultivate leadership capabilities and pursue a more diverse range of careers. Another degree program growing in prevalence across the country is the Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership (MAOL). The situations described above reflect this reality. MBA vs. M.S. These jobs often have promising employment prospects. Master’s in human resource management vs. MBA specialization in Human Resource Management . An organizational leadership master's degree uses an interdisciplinary approach to prepare students for careers as organizational leaders. If you are weighing the benefits of earning an MAOL versus an MBA degree, it can help to explore the degree program options at Point Loma Nazarene University. The illustrious MBA, once the king of graduate degrees, no longer holds the sway it once did. Management and Leadership. Focusing on the human side of management may sound fulfilling, but you might wonder if a Master of Arts or Master of Science in Organizational Leadership degree is marketable. Regis declares that the MBA offers students “a sophisticated understanding of the business enterprise,” while an MSOL degree program “focuses specifically, and in depth, on the leadership function in organizations.” In an article by a Thanks to the many colleges and universities that now offer a master’s degree in organizational leadership online, even full-time workers can earn their credentials in this lucrative field as a way to advance their careers or begin brand new ones. Thus, the MBA represents a breadth of knowledge, while the MSML focuses more heavily on a depth of knowledge.” Overall, when it comes to earning a master’s degree, graduate degree holders make an average of $17,000 more than their coworkers with bachelor’s degrees, on an annual basis. A master in organizational leadership typically comprises 30 to 34 credits. Other signs: You are a “big-picture” rather than detail-oriented person. If you want to advance your career in your current company, potentially earn a higher salary, or step into a leadership role in a new organization, you may want to start looking into what type of master’s degree program would be the best fit for you. All Rights Reserved. The OLL Program Philosophy. This is particularly true in the business world. Rather than focusing on business structures, students in MAOL programs learn about the human processes that comprise organizations. The university offers two MBA options for graduate students. When you begin to examine business management versus organizational leadership, one of the most significant differences is that MBA programs have more of a quantitative approach whereas MAOL programs are more qualitative. Over the span of the last 20 years, the number of annual business degree graduates across the country has grown from 120,000 to almost 200,000. Join us as we explore each of these paths in greater depth. Graduate School of Education and Human Development, Graduate School of Education and Human Development, Masters in Organizational Leadership & Learning (OLL), Masters Degree in Organizational Leadership and Learning, Fundamental: The basic phenomena that is necessary for a group, team, or organization to operate effectively; the building blocks upon which all other organizational functions are based, Human: They are inherent to people (especially in a group, team, or organization), occurring within and around us in various contexts constantly, Process: In every organization, each of these phenomena continues. Since organizations in every sector require leadership, professionals trained in organizational leadership are always in demand. A Master’s in Organizational Leadership is a broader, bigger picture degree that focuses more on the leadership aspect of business. The MBA and master’s in management are related degrees with different emphases. By fundamental human processes, we mean that each of these are: In OLL we believe in using awareness (especially self-awareness) and reflection as the primary tools to gain expertise and knowledge about each process. While many of the outcomes of a business degree are similar to those of the MAOL, an MBA degree program will focus more on developing your analytical skills for corporate management. While an MAOL program will also include essential business-related skills in its coursework, the emphasis of an MAOL degree is helping you develop skills like leadership, interpersonal effectiveness, social management, and organizational fluency. I spent the last decade planning and reviewing graduate programs, and as a hiring manager, I was cognizant of the changing landscape for advanced degrees. Over the course of 15 months, graduate students develop the posture and skills of servant leadership in the hybrid program that meets both online and in-person. Scenarios like these occur because so many organizations take the fundamental human processes for granted. However, an MBA is not the only kind of master's degree. The Organizational Leadership, M.A. To become a leader who can skillfully construct a successful learning intervention, implement a necessary change, make a positive impact, or lead a project team, discover the George Washington University’s (GW) online Masters Degree in Organizational Leadership and Learning. An OLL degree gives you the tools to overcome each one of these challenges, regardless of the specific field or industry. Check out this infographic on their education and career outcomes. To decide which degree is right for you, Ludden’s advice is straightforward: Written for the OLL students and faculty, George Washington University, Washington DC, USA. Learn more about the If you pursue an MAOL degree, you will learn about making organizational changes, navigating human resources, and implementing project management in the workplace. You may already be familiar with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree since it is prominent and well-recognized within the business world. They become familiar with the science of business and how to use data and information to make strategic decisions for the companies that will employ them. Read the 11 factors you need to know to understand which degree is better - an MBA or MiM. Request information or call (844-386-7323) to speak with an admissions advisor. However, earning either an MBA or MAOL will usually help you earn a higher wage. MBA vs Master’s in Organizational Leadership – What’s the Difference? Regis University details a comparison between the MBA and the Master of Science in Organizational Leadership (MSOL) they offer through their College of Business and Economics. The remaining nine credit hours will be earned in Applied Research Project coursework. Both MBA and MAOL programs allow you to hone your skills in a specific field and increase your competitiveness. It has become an essential tool for success in business. For instance, over the next few years, the BLS projects an increase … Tailor your education to your career goals. While these two business degrees are similar, the differences can include topics covered, curriculum, and the … Organizational leadership is a newer field, and programs tend to be interdisciplinary, with some coursework in social sciences and data analysis. She works as a freelance writer and lives in San Diego, California. A master's degree in organizational leadership also has a focus on leadership and decision making but typically takes a much more forward-thinking approach that focuses on strategies for ensuring an organization's future success. When you begin to examine business management versus organizational leadership, one of the most significant differences is that MBA programs have more of a quantitative approach whereas MAOL programs are more qualitative. They study how group interactions impact individuals, concentrating on the ethics and psychology of human behavior. MBA in organizational leadership programs prepare students for high-level positions in operations management, training and development, and project management. These courses and others emphasize the “science” of business: its structures, departments, phenomenon, and nuance. Khilji, S.E. In an MAOL program, you will learn how to lead, inspire, and retain employees in all kinds of work environments. We apply deliberate effort to ensure that our graduates are capable leaders (and followers), facilitators, consultants, and interventionists. Students delve into topics like corporate social responsibility, modern leadership strategies, and global marketplace decision theories. References: Master of Business Administration (MBA): An MBA in Leadership focuses on the business aspect of managing an organization. If you are interested in moving up the ladder in your current company or transitioning into a higher position in a new company, earning a graduate degree, can demonstrate your commitment to gaining specialized knowledge and enhancing your credibility. This is a video on the benefits of a Masters in Executive Leadership versus a MBA. Whether you have been working in the business industry for a while or have just graduated with your bachelor’s degree, pursuing a master’s degree can yield many benefits. © 2020 Point Loma Nazarene University. We do not make that assumption, and our curriculum reflects it: We do not take the fundamental human processes for granted. Bottom line: Between the two degrees, students should examine exactly what they are looking for when it comes to their post-graduate studies career. Which degree is right for you could depend on whether you’re interested in pursuing a career that emphasizes hard skills or soft skills, an analytical approach or a holistic approach, and whether you’re more interested in specific business strategy or execution across the organization. According to our 100% employer reported salary sources the median salary for an Organizational Development Manager with a Master's Degree or MBA is $111,858 - $120,993.Please try our salary wizard to explore how other factors like location, Years of experience and number of direct reports can impact your base pay and bonus. Business Management and Leadership Degrees, MBA vs Master’s in Organizational Leadership: Examining Similarities, Business Management vs Organizational Leadership, How a Knowledge of Marketing Can Help Your Career, Optimizing Your Profile & Becoming More Discoverable on LinkedIn, The Basics of Social Media for Businesses. Instead of marketing and finance, our core curriculum is devoted to the fundamental human processes of leadership, change, learning, and globalization. We do not believe that they just “happen” on their own, at least not successfully. What is the difference between an MBA and a Master’s in Organizational Leadership? Both can help you advance your career significantly, she says. If you already know which degree you’d like to pursue, you can begin the application process today. Perhaps the most significant difference between OLL and the MBA lies in a key assumption. MBA in leadership programs could be designed for those just beginning a career, as well as for those with a great deal of experience. If you find that you are more people-driven and motivated to make  personal connections at work, you may be more invested in the qualitative aspects of an organization. Master of Arts (M.A.) Is Organizational Leadership the right degree for you? (2015). Leadership MBA programs are designed for students who will go on to earn top management level positions inside various fields of business. So, how can you make a decision when weighing MBA versus organizational leadership for your degree? Pursuing an advanced degree typically helps with job advancement as well. Organizations are flattening their organizational structures creating a critical need to develop leaders at every level within an organization. If you find that you are more people-driven and motivated to make personal connections at work, you may be more invested in the qualitative aspects of an organization. Before taking a deeper look at specific differences between an MBA and an MAOL, it can help to examine the ways in which the degrees are similar. An MBA provides the foundation for aspiring business leaders to assume roles of responsibility in their field. The National Center for Education Statistics reports that 23% of all students who earn a master’s degree in the U.S. pursue a degree in business. In MAOL programs learn about the the MBA and MAOL programs allow you hone... An MAOL program, you will learn how to lead effectively and can prove a strong management-focused to! And organizational settings good reason and career outcomes career outcomes for high-level positions operations! You may be wondering how CU Boulder ’ s important to understand the differences in every sector require,. 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