Master’s in Organizational Leadership Online Curriculum

This course explores the dynamic relationship between leadership principles and ethical decision-making in both personal and organizational contexts. Students will examine core leadership theories, ethical frameworks, and real-world case studies to develop a comprehensive understanding of how leaders navigate complex moral challenges. The course will focus on cultivating ethical awareness, critical thinking, and decision-making skills, while emphasizing the importance of integrity, accountability, and social responsibility in leadership roles. Through discussions, group activities, and reflective exercises, students will gain practical insights into how to lead with moral clarity and foster ethical cultures in diverse environments. Key topics include transformational leadership, ethical dilemmas in leadership, corporate social responsibility, and the role of values in guiding effective leadership practices. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to make informed, principled decisions in their future leadership roles.

This course provides an in-depth exploration of the strategic role that leadership plays in shaping and executing organizational goals. Students will examine how leaders align organizational vision and mission with strategy, fostering innovation, and adapting to internal and external challenges. Key topics include strategic leadership frameworks, decision-making processes, organizational culture, and the impact of leadership on change management and performance optimization. Students will also analyze the relationship between leadership styles, team dynamics, and the long-term sustainability of organizational success. Through case studies, group projects, and practical applications, the course emphasizes the development of strategic thinking, effective communication, and leadership skills needed to drive organizational growth and competitive advantage. By the end of the course, students will have a comprehensive understanding of how to lead strategic initiatives, navigate complex organizational landscapes, and influence outcomes at all levels within an organization.

This course focuses on the skills and strategies required to lead diverse, inclusive teams in today’s dynamic work environment, with particular emphasis on virtual and global team contexts. Students will explore the principles of inclusive leadership, learning how to create and sustain teams that value diversity in all its forms, including cultural, racial, gender, and cognitive diversity. The course also covers the unique challenges and opportunities of leading teams across geographical boundaries, time zones, and cultural differences, with a focus on building trust, communication, and collaboration in virtual and remote settings. Key topics include fostering an inclusive team culture, mitigating unconscious bias, navigating cross-cultural communication, and leveraging diversity for innovation and performance. Through case studies, simulations, and group discussions, students will develop practical leadership strategies to manage diverse teams, enhance team dynamics, and drive organizational success in a globalized, digitally connected world. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the tools and mindset needed to lead inclusive teams that thrive in both local and global contexts.

This course explores the critical role of communication in effective leadership, focusing on both interpersonal and organizational communication strategies. Students will examine how leaders use communication to influence, inspire, and build relationships with diverse stakeholders, while also addressing the unique challenges of communicating across cultural boundaries. Special attention will be given to the nuances of cross-cultural communication, including differences in communication styles, language, non-verbal cues, and conflict resolution approaches in different countries. The course will emphasize the importance of cultural sensitivity and adaptability in leadership communication, with practical tools for navigating these complexities in international or multicultural settings. Students will also learn how to communicate leadership vision, provide feedback, motivate teams, and manage crises through both traditional and digital communication platforms. Through case studies, role-playing exercises, and group discussions, students will refine their communication skills and develop a deeper understanding of how to lead effectively in a globalized world.

This course focuses on the critical role of data-driven decision-making in effective leadership. Students will learn how leaders collect, analyze, manage, and visualize data to make strategic, evidence-based decisions that drive organizational success. The course covers key methods for gathering and interpreting data from various sources, including financial reports, market trends, employee feedback, and performance metrics. Students will explore how leaders use data to identify opportunities, mitigate risks, and align decision-making with organizational goals. Emphasis will be placed on tools and techniques for data visualization, helping leaders communicate insights clearly and persuasively to stakeholders at all levels. Through case studies and hands-on exercises, students will gain practical experience in using data analytics platforms and leadership frameworks to make informed decisions in real-world contexts. By the end of the course, students will have the skills and confidence to lead with a strategic mindset, using data to guide organizational decisions, drive innovation, and enhance long-term performance.

This course provides a comprehensive understanding of fiscal management in leadership roles, focusing on how leaders effectively manage budgets and mobilize funding to ensure organizational sustainability and growth. Students will explore the principles of budgeting, financial forecasting, and resource allocation, gaining the skills necessary to make strategic financial decisions that support organizational goals. The course will cover key topics such as cost control, financial risk management, and funding strategies, including securing grants, investments, and other revenue streams. Special emphasis will be placed on aligning financial resources with organizational priorities, optimizing resource allocation, and measuring the financial impact of decisions. Through case studies, practical exercises, and financial modeling, students will learn how to lead with fiscal responsibility and adaptability in an increasingly complex and resource-constrained environment. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to navigate financial challenges and make informed decisions that drive long-term organizational success.

This course examines the foundational theories and practical applications of organizational behavior and development, with a focus on how leaders can identify the need for change and drive effective transformation within their organizations. Students will explore key concepts in organizational theory, including structures, cultures, and dynamics, as well as the psychological and behavioral factors that influence individual and group performance. The course will emphasize the role of leadership in diagnosing organizational challenges, creating action plans for change, and implementing strategies that support sustainable development and growth. Students will learn how to align organizational goals with change initiatives, while actively engaging and supporting staff and stakeholders throughout the process. Topics include organizational design, leadership styles, change management models, communication strategies, and resistance to change. Through case studies, role-playing, and group projects, students will gain practical skills in managing organizational development, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that change efforts are both effective and inclusive.

This course is designed to help students build a strong foundation for effective leadership by identifying their personal strengths, challenges, and areas for growth. Through self-assessment, reflection, and feedback, students will gain a deeper understanding of their leadership styles and how these impact team dynamics and organizational outcomes. The course emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and personal development in leadership, encouraging students to develop leadership philosophies that are adaptable, ethical, and aligned with their values. Students will explore key leadership concepts such as emotional intelligence, decision-making, communication, and conflict resolution, and will be encouraged to integrate these skills into their personal leadership journeys. Through a combination of interactive workshops, case studies, and action plans, students will refine their leadership capabilities and commit to lifelong learning and development. By the end of the course, students will be prepared to lead with confidence, integrity, and a commitment to ongoing growth.

This course explores the psychological principles and theories that underpin effective leadership, helping students understand how psychology influences the way leaders manage, motivate, and develop people within organizations. Students will delve into topics such as emotional intelligence, personality traits, decision-making processes, motivation, and the impact of cognitive biases on leadership behavior. The course will emphasize the role of psychological factors in building trust, managing conflict, fostering team dynamics, and creating a positive organizational culture. Students will also examine how leaders can apply psychological insights to improve communication, enhance performance, and support employee well-being. By analyzing case studies, engaging in role-play scenarios, and applying psychological frameworks, students will gain practical tools to navigate the human aspects of leadership, enhance their leadership effectiveness, and build stronger, more resilient teams.

This course provides students with the opportunity to further develop or implement a prior course project. Students may also choose a new project or research topic that allows for additional application of knowledge and skills developed through the degree program. The practicum faculty will also help source projects for students through the Middlebury Institute network as needed.