There are usually two prerequisites for earning a master’s degree in organizational leadership: first, you must have completed a bachelor’s degree in some area, and second, you must have taken a graduate school admission test or have significant work experience in the business sector. Actually being accepted into a program usually requires a bit more. You will need a strong academic record and an application packet that clearly explains why you want to pursue training in business leadership and organizational management, for starters. Strong letters of recommendation that portray you as a leader and innovator are also important. There is usually no simple way to earn a master’s in organizational leadership, but careful planning will make the journey easier.
In nearly all places, a master’s in organizational leadership is considered an advanced graduate degree. This usually means that students must have completed at least a basic university course of study before applying. Some universities offer combined master’s degree programs for undergraduates, but these are rare in the business management sector.
Graduate school exams are usually also required. Different jurisdictions have different exams, but most of the time, graduate programs require applicants to sit for a standardized exam that acts as a benchmark of general education and reasoning abilities. Many schools that offer a master’s in organizational leadership will waive the test score requirement in the face of extensive business experience, however. This makes programs more attractive to working professionals who may have been out of school for many years.
Selecting your program is the next step. Many schools offer the degree as a full-time course, requiring a number of years — usually two — dedicated to full-time studies. Professionals who are looking to get a master’s in organizational leadership as a means of augmenting an already successful career, or as a means of learning new leadership styles, may not be able to spare two years for full-time education, however.
Working students are usually better suited for part-time programs, or courses that exist at least partly online. A great many master’s in organizational leadership programs are designed especially for students with robust business knowledge. These programs are usually designed to be much more flexible, and allow students to continue working while studying.
Once you have found the right master's in organizational leadership program, it is important to put together a strong application packet. Most schools require transcripts, personal statements, and letters of recommendation, among other things. It is important to highlight your leadership experience and interest in organizational management in all aspects of your application. If a school offers you an interview, be sure to take it. This is a chance for you to distinguish yourself from other candidates, which will only help your chances at winning a seat in the program.
