Organizational Leadership, B.A. Online

Organizational Leadership, B.A. Online

Overview

PLNU’s Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership (BAOL) online program is a multidisciplinary undergraduate degree designed to change the way you think about leadership and prepare you for a wide range of for-profit and nonprofit organizations. 

Cutting-edge online leadership education

Through this flexible online program, you can become a thoughtful and innovative leader with the ability to identify, analyze and communicate solutions to diverse audiences. Whether you’re continuing your college education or just beginning, this program is designed to help you invest in your future while learning at your own pace. 

Leadership learning on your terms

This online program gives you the flexibility to learn when and where you want. You can complete coursework in the comfort of your home, favorite coffee shop, or local library while choosing a study schedule that works best for you. 

Online learning is perfect for those who learn in ways that aren’t often found in traditional classrooms — watching instructional videos, listening to audio lectures at your preferred speed, or dedicating extra study time to tricky topics. You can always connect with professors to help find the best ways to absorb and apply your learning.

Time for life’s personal and professional commitments

Learning shouldn’t prevent you from doing what you love. Coursework is designed to be flexible to your needs and help you balance your other life commitments. 

While completing this program, you’ll still be able to continue spending time with family, thriving at your full- or part-time workplace, or leisure time. 

Community connections without commuting

Commuting can be stressful and time-consuming — especially in San Diego. Thankfully, you can learn online while still benefiting from PLNU’s strong focus on community. In this program, you’ll meaningfully connect with other students online as you learn and grow in your leadership expertise.

You’ll also have access to top-tier mentorship from professors and advisors. They’ll help you to leverage your strengths to expand your connections and career opportunities. You’ll be able to access resources tailored to you and your career goals. 

A seamless transition to becoming an innovative leader

A counselor and coordinator will work with you through every step of your journey to complete your bachelor’s, from helping you transfer previously-earned credit to working alongside you with care and encouragement as you earn your degree. You won’t feel like you’re starting a brand-new program — rather, it will be a natural continuation of your previous education experience.

Students applying for this program can also start with as few as zero college credits completed — a feature exclusive to the online format. In the online format, PLNU offers all general education, elective, and prerequisite courses needed for completion of the BAOL program. With entry points every 8 weeks, you can start whenever you’re ready!

Crucial skills for today’s leaders

This program is designed to build on the foundation of your previously-earned college credits and continue investing in your future. The BAOL equips you with competitive, in-demand skills such as:

  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Human resources
  • Data-driven decision making
  • Leadership through organizational change or crises
Who is it for?Busy working professionals who prefer independence.
Program startSix start dates year-round
Program Structure100% online and asynchronous
Location(s)Online — flexible
International Students
Eligible?
No

Enhance your degree with a Minor

Adding a minor to your Accelerated undergraduate program can be a great opportunity to broaden your knowledge, increase career opportunities, and foster personal growth. Explore subjects like Marketing, Organizational Leadership, Strategic Communication, Management, Creative Digital Media, and Child Development. Choosing to add a minor can make your degree more versatile, well-rounded, and appealing to future employers. PLNU Counselors are ready to help you integrate a minor into your academic plan. Discover the benefits of a minor at PLNU today!

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Military Tuition Discount

PLNU offers a flat rate of $250 per unit for all active duty service members who enroll in this program.

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What is an Organizational Leadership Degree?

An organizational leadership degree can prepare you for diverse leadership positions in a variety of organizations.

*The B.A. in Organizational Leadership is an approved program under PLNU's WASC Regional Accreditation, WSCUC. Since it is not a business major, it is not an Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) approved program.

Application Information

Program Start Date(s):

  • Fall 2024 Quad II — October 28, 2024
  • Spring 2025 Quad I — January 13, 2025
  • Spring 2025 Quad II — March 17, 2025
  • Summer 2025 Quad I — May 12, 2025
  • Summer 2025 Quad II — July 7, 2025

Start Application

Application Checklist

Note: The application is completed entirely online with the exception of transcripts, which can be submitted electronically or directly to PLNU, and test scores, which should be submitted electronically.

  1. Submit online application for admission.
  2. Submit official transcripts from each institution attended.

    Official transcripts must be sent to:
    Point Loma Nazarene University
    Office of Graduate Admissions
    3900 Lomaland Dr.
    San Diego, CA 92106

    Official electronic transcripts must be emailed to:
    gradprocessing@pointloma.edu

Start Application

State Authorization

In certain states outside California, PLNU is not authorized to enroll students in online courses and/or offer internships. If a student moves to another state after admission to a program or enrollment in an online course, continuation in the program/course will depend on whether PLNU is authorized within that state. Please refer to the State Authorization map to view which states allow online courses and/or internships.

NOTE: All students are expected to have some proficiency with computer technology (email, Internet, word processing, etc.) and have access to a laptop or desktop computer. 

Only courses from an accredited institution where at least a grade of a “C” has been earned will be accepted by transfer. Prospective students who do not meet the minimum GPA requirement can be considered for admission under exception. Contact your enrollment counselor for details.

Career Opportunities

PLNU’s Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership (BAOL) prepares students for careers in business, management, government, and the nonprofit sector, as well as graduate-level study in business, management, leadership, education and other fields. If you’re considering earning your bachelor’s degree, PLNU’s BAOL degree is attractive to virtually all organizations, preparing you to maximize your potential to lead with creativity, flexibility, and attention to detail. If you have a passion for people and desire to develop your leadership capabilities, this field of study may be for you.

Possible Careers For Those With an Organizational Leadership, B.A.: 

  • Sales and Account Manager
  • General and Operations Manager
  • Fundraising Manager
  • Human Resources Manager
  • Nonprofit Manager
  • Event Planner
  • Program Coordinator
  • Public Relations
  • Clinic Administrator
  • Field Staff Supervisor
  • Civilian Contractor
  • Admissions & Record Specialist

What Can I Do With a Degree in Organizational Leadership? 

Career opportunities for those with a degree in organizational leadership are vast and varied, making graduates in high demand due to their diligence and wide-ranging skillset. Professionals in this field are able to address and aid workplace challenges, job satisfaction, productivity, sustainability, and much more.

The following careers are some popular jobs for those with an Organizational Leadership, B.A.: 

General and Operations Managers

2020 Median annual salary $123,880

General and operations managers are responsible for managing activities that are part of the production of services in wide-ranging fields from social media to election campaigns. Operations managers' responsibilities include human resource management, asset management, and cost management. Their indirect responsibilities can include interacting with the managers in other functional areas within the organization whose roles have an impact on operations.

What it takes to be a general and operations manager:

  • Financial planning skills
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Leadership skills
  • Communication skills
  • Innovative thinking

Human Resources Manager

2020 Median annual salary: $121,220
Job outlook
: Projected to grow 9% from 2020 to 2030

Human resources managers are responsible for coordinating administrative activities that take care of an organization’s workforce and employees. They work to develop new recruitment strategies, manage staff benefits and payroll, and direct personnel. 

What it takes to be a human resources manager:

  • Communication skills 
  • Discretion
  • Scheduling
  • Organizational skills
  • Proactive mindset

Nonprofit Manager

2020 Median annual salary: $74,334
Job outlook:
Projected to grow 15% from 2020 to 2030

Nonprofit managers' main goals are to provide a specialized service on behalf of a nonprofit’s mission, clientele, or cause. They must be knowledgeable about finance, excellent at setting and achieving goals, and able to consistently and adequately manage a large number of employees and volunteers.

What it takes to be a nonprofit manager:

  • Ethical leadership 
  • Strategic planning 
  • Decision making 
  • Communication skills

Sales and Account Manager

2020 Median annual salary: $132,290
Job outlook:
Projected to grow 7 % from 2020 to 2030

Sales and account managers’ main goal is to satisfy customers’ needs and requests. They must be able to respond to their clients in a timely manner and be able to give customers a positive experience with their organization. Some of sales and account managers’ main responsibilities include managing a portfolio of accounts and generating new sales using existing and potential customer networks.

What it takes to be a sales and account manager:

  • Communication skills 
  • Negotiation skills
  • Timeliness
  • Problem solving

Using Your Organizational Leadership Degree: 

Being able to communicate and collaborate efficiently and effectively with others, and planning and problem-solving is invaluable to any organization and employer. By studying organizational leadership at PLNU, you’ll become a well-rounded individual and leader who is ready to take a step forward on whatever path you choose.  

Apply to PLNU today or get connected with one of our counselors for additional support and answers to any questions you may have.

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Should You Go Back to School to Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree?

More adults than ever before are heading to college to earn their degree. If getting your bachelor's has been on your mind lately, here are some questions that can help you determine if now is the right time.

Financial Aid and Student Support

We take seriously the role of providing you with financial, academic, and career support so you have the tools you need to be successful at PLNU and beyond. That’s why we offer a holistic support system that focuses on your unique experiences, particular needs, and personal and professional goals — resulting from our deep concern for you, our student.

With a focus on authentic relationships and personalized attention, our goal is to help transform you so you can follow your calling in your own career and life.

Financial Aid and Student Support

Frequently Asked Questions

What is required to be admitted into this program?

Students applying for the BAOL program can start with as few as 0 college credits completed. A minimum GPA of 2.0 is required.

Can I work while completing the program?

Absolutely! The program is designed to meet the needs of working professionals.

What scholarship and financial aid opportunities are available to me?

You will have the option to apply for a number of scholarships through Student Financial Services. This program qualifies for state and federal financial aid options. Contact your enrollment counselor for more information.

Do you accept transfer credits into your program?

Yes! We will do a pre-evaluation of your unofficial transcripts to determine which of your courses will transfer into PLNU, and make sure you know exactly what you have left to take.

How long do I have to complete the program?

This depends on how many units you have completed, and the number of units that you want to take per semester. Your admissions counselor will talk through options with you.

How many days a week do classes meet?

Our fully online program does not have any class meetings.

Are international students eligible to apply?

Unfortunately, international students are not eligible to apply for our online programs. You are only eligible if you reside in one of our authorized states. Visit our disclosures page to learn more.

If you are a military spouse or serving overseas, contact military services.

What’s the difference between this degree completion program and a traditional undergraduate program?

The program provides greater flexibility and affordability than most traditional undergraduate programs while maintaining high academic quality by integrating online or evening courses. The program is ideal for students looking to advance in their careers while balancing work and family life.

PLNU is a Christian university, but I am not a Christian. Would I feel out of place in this program?

We welcome and encourage people of all backgrounds as students in our programs. Issues that relate to faith may be discussed in some classes, and engaging in discussion with individuals with alternative points of view will be encouraged as learning opportunities. Students will work within a learning community that is supportive academically, spiritually, and emotionally.

How many hours of transferable college credit are required for admissions to the program?

You can start our program with as little as 0 units completed. PLNU offers General Education, Electives, and upper-division program coursework.

Is this program accredited?

The Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership is an approved program under PLNU’s WSCUS regional accreditation. It is not an ACBSP-approved program. For those interested in an ACBSP-approved program, PLNU offers, through the Fermanian School of Business, a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with majors in various areas.

What types of benefits or aid do you have for military members?

  • PLNU offers a tuition discount flat rate of $250 per unit for all active duty service members who enroll in one of the following PLNU Adult Undergraduate Degree Programs: Bachelor of Business Administration, Organizational Leadership B.A, Child Development B.A., RN to BSN, Criminal Justice B.A., Computer Information Technology B.A., Strategic Communications B.A., Integrated Studies with an Emphasis in Education B.A.
  • PLNU accepts VA educational benefits, including the Post 9/11 GI Bill®.
  • PLNU also participates as a Yellow Ribbon School, which means in most cases you can pursue a private education without having to pay out-of-pocket, not even for fees or books.
  • Because you are a person who has provided military service to our country, we will also waive your application fee.

Course List

For information about the courses required for the Organizational Leadership, B.A. program, view the PLNU Catalog. 

Course Information