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Master of Science (MS) Degree in Organizational Learning, Leadership and Policy

What is a Master’s Degree in Organizational Learning, Leadership and Policy?

The Master of Science in Organizational Learning, Leadership and Policy is the perfect degree for aspiring leaders in organizations, corporations, government agencies, military, and non-profits. Students in the program gain a comprehensive understanding of leadership theory and best practices to effectively lead their teams and departments. The program also teaches data-driven policy and decision-learning techniques, leadership fundamentals, and systems thinking, to ensure students graduate ready to apply their skills in their career.

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What can you do with a MS in Organizational Learning, Leadership and Policy?

The MS in Organizational Learning, Leadership, and Policy helps students develop leadership skills that cut across a wide variety of sectors and industries.

Graduates are well positioned for successful careers in several fields including:

Education Policy

From education policy analysts to advocates, Drexel’s MS in OLLP can help you prepare for any career in education policy. Develop your skills in data-driven policy, systems thinking, and more as you use this degree as a launching pad into your career.

Estimated Salary: $72,000-$183,000

Higher Education Leadership

Whether you work at a college, university, or a post-secondary institution, students in the MS in OLLP learn from experienced Drexel faculty and apply their knowledge in the workplace. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of leadership across educational organizations and systems, along with expertise in data-driven policy and decision-making.

Estimated Salary: $103,000

Human Resource Development

Learn the latest and most effective leadership techniques to lead your department. This program helps HR business partners, talent development leaders, HR strategists, and others in the human resource development sector reach their goals and help their organizations succeed.

Estimated Salary: $72,000

Sport Coaching Leadership

Coaches at all levels- college to the pros, can develop their leadership and motivational skills through our flexible online coursework. Courses in this concentration include strategies for coaching, athletic recruiting, and coaching psychology to help you gain an edge on and off the field.

Estimated Salary: $45,000

Online MS in OLLP Course and Curriculum

  • Program Format: Courses are taught entirely online
  • Core Focus: Intersections of learning, leadership, and policy across diverse organizational contexts.
  • Approach: Blends innovative theories with practical applications to drive sustainable change.
  • Student Experience: 
    • Design and conduct applied research or projects in organizational settings.
    • Utilize interdisciplinary knowledge to address real-world challenges and promote positive change.
  • Graduate Outcomes:
    • Become inclusive, ethical leaders in educational and other organizations.
    • Prepared to address complex global and domestic challenges.
    • Capable of transforming organizations and advocating progressive policies. 

The full list of courses can be found in the Drexel Course Catalog.

Concentration Tracks and Certificates

The Master of Science degree in Organizational Learning, Leadership and Policy is designed with flexibility in mind. Students can choose a primary concentration in the following areas:

  • Education Policy
  • Higher Education Leadership
  • Human Resource Development
  • Sport Coaching Leadership

Students can also earn Post Baccalaureate Certificates in the specialized fields. Options include:

  • Creativity Tools and Techniques for the Classroom and Workplace 
  • Higher Education Leadership 
  • Instructional Design for e-Learning 
  • Mind, Brain, and Learning 
  • Learning Analytics 
  • Learning in Game-Based Environments
  • Organization and Talent Development
  • U.S. Education Policy

Admissions Requirements & Policy Program Eligibility

In order to enroll as a student in the MS in Organizational Leadership, Learning, and Policy program, a student must possess:

  • A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher (graduate degree GPAs will be considered along with the undergraduate GPA) 

Required Documents

  • A completed application 
  • Official transcripts from all universities or colleges and other post-secondary educational institutions (including trade schools) attended 
  • Two letters of recommendation, professional or academic 
    • Why are you interested in this field?
    • Why are you interested in attending the program at Drexel University?
    • What are your career goals and how will Drexel’s program help you achieve those goals?
    • How does this program relate to your previous education and/or work experience? ?
  • Resume 
  • Additional requirements for International Students 

How to Apply for the MS in Organizational Learning, Leadership, and Policy

The master’s degree in Organizational Learning, Leadership, and Policy is a 100%, fully online program. You can get started on the path to your degree by completing the Drexel Online application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this program best suited for?

This program is ideal for current and aspiring leaders in education, government, non-profits, military, and corporate sectors who seek to lead change through evidence-based practices, inclusive leadership, policy, and data-informed decision-making.

Do I need a background in education or leadership to apply?

No. While a background in education, psychology, or leadership is helpful, the program welcomes applicants from diverse academic and professional backgrounds who are passionate about leading in learning-focused environments.

Can I complete this program while working full-time?

Yes. The program is designed for working professionals, offering flexible online coursework that can be completed on your schedule. Most students complete the program part-time in 2–3 years.

Are there any in-person or residency requirements?

No. The MS in OLLP is offered entirely online, with no required campus visits.

How do the concentrations work? Do I have to choose one?

Yes. Students are required to choose a primary concentration at the time of application. Concentration areas allow you to tailor the program to your interests, whether it’s Education Policy, Higher Education Leadership, Human Resource Development, Global Education Policy and Practice, or Sport Coaching Leadership.

Is there a capstone or final project?

Yes. The program culminates in a capstone or applied research project that integrates the learning, leadership, and policy themes to address a real-world issues in an organizational setting.

Are internships or practical experiences required?

While not required, students are encouraged to pursue applied learning opportunities or projects in their current workplace or through faculty-supported partnerships.

What kind of support will I receive as an online student?

Students will have access to academic advising, technical support, library services, writing support, and career guidance tailored for online learners. A dedicated program advisor will be assigned to each student.

Program Questions

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For questions about all School of Education academic programs, please contact enroll@drexel.edu.