Norwich’s online Master of Science in Leadership program is comprised of six courses, each of which is 11 weeks in length for a total of 36 credit hours. Students master one course at a time, to create a strong foundation of knowledge and context for future topics.
Our graduates can:
Apply classroom lessons within the workplace immediately.
Present a completed leadership development portfolio — a toolbox of leadership concepts and personal reflections that will help you adapt your personal leadership style through your career.
Students will complete the following three courses prior to choosing a concentration.
This course focuses on differentiating the conceptual and theoretical aspects and models of leadership and leadership studies to enable you to apply leadership skills and principles to your workplace. The fundamentals of leadership are taught within the context of present and past leaders, with an emphasis on how to practice these fundamentals in an ethical manner.
Developing your EQ
This course provides information about evaluating emotional intelligence, or EQ. You will be given the tools and the opportunity to evaluate your capacity to think about work through the lens of reflection and introspection as a guide to understanding the behavioral aspects of working together and providing customer service. By examining thinking patterns, you will gain new skills in developing intuitive reasoning that will enhance your professional interpersonal relationships with peers and customers.
Strategic communication is a vital skill in today's demanding, fast-paced, virtual or global workplaces. In this course, you will identify your personal leadership style, your tendencies and preferences as a professional, and how you assimilate and apply information. Experiential learning is a large component of this course. You will practice your skills at work and report your experiences through your Leadership Development Portfolio (LDP) and, as in all courses, learn from your peers in classroom discussions.
Examine key leadership concepts, such as organizational behavior, change management, and emotional intelligence through a multidisciplinary framework.
A leader’s ability to understand and follow the change management process in a collaborative manner is a vital skill to master. This course focuses on the strategic leadership of change in organizations. You will learn about change from a leadership as well as a management perspective in organizations, both national and multinational. This broad-based course differentiates the conceptual and theoretical change models in order to assist the student in understanding the best ways to lead and manage change. You will learn the importance of understanding and following the change management process in a collaborative manner. The course helps students learn about and practice leadership skills that foster positive changes in people and organizations.
This course focuses on strategic organizational behavior in organizations. You will learn about the importance of strategic alignment in order to enable effective organizational behavior. Systems thinking and organizational behavior provide a framework that you can use both to analyze and influence the behavior of individuals and groups within the organization. This broad-based course analyzes and applies various holistic strategic organizational behavior models in order to assist you in understanding the best ways to assess and impact the strategic alignment of organizations. You will also learn the importance of a leader’s ability to understand and use various organizational behavior and organizational strategy models.
You will apply principles of leading change, strategic organizational behavior, and strategic leadership to people and organizations to impact performance and ensure future success. This course develops an understanding of the implications of strategic alignment and organizational learning to the organization’s success. It differentiates conceptual and theoretical change models to assist students in understanding the best ways to lead change and foster a learning organization while considering individual and group behavior as tied to strategy. The course demonstrates how strategic leadership, organizational behavior, and change theories are applied in a collaborative manner and will lead to aligning stakeholder’s interest. Prerequisites: OL530 and OL550, or permission of the program director.
Develop the skills you need to engage stakeholders, respond to today’s issues, and shape culture.
This course addresses the dynamic economic, social, and cultural transformations faced by contemporary leaders in the public sector, government, and military organizations as they strengthen agencies for tomorrow’s challenges. Part of these challenges comes from the need to cope with new forms of competition, market demands, technological innovations, and global economic and terrain shifts. Combining the latest leadership theories with the most effective lessons from the private sector, students will gain theoretical frameworks and practical tools to help effectively improve and enhance their skills to manage complex systems, influence organizational context, engage stakeholders, and shape institutional culture. The topics covered include: history and theories of successful public sector/government/military management, contemporary leadership strategies, and innovative responses to public sector challenges in a growing global marketplace.
This course answers one of the main challenges of the 21st century: ensuring the readiness of public, government, and military organizations to answer complex, contemporary global challenges. As budget cuts and funding reductions continue for many public organizations, leadership is charged with finding economical ways to increase the value of services and products by streamlining processes and integrating efforts at macro and micro levels. This course addresses challenges faced by public sector/government/military leadership in developing collaborative relationships spanning across agency borders. Through understanding how to manage adaptation to changing environments and successfully dealing with multi-faceted variables using planning and control strategies, students will learn new approaches to leading people. Emphasis is placed on implementing fundamentals of strategic and performance management by leading effective change initiatives within an organization, and fostering teamwork by creating a work culture that values collaboration. Topics covered include: creating operational synergy, and leading internal and external stakeholder relationships to promote information sharing and create collaborative partnerships.
This course in capstone studies provides students the opportunity to synthesize learning from all previous courses and to apply the concepts and principles in two ways: the preparation of a written capstone project that offers a practical or theoretical solution to an organizational challenge or issue of contemporary importance and relevance to the work or career goals of each student; and a 1500-word paper suitable for publication in a professional journal. Students will be required to exhibit in-depth critical thinking, organizational analysis, and effective writing. Course assignments will maximize the exchange of student suggestions and comments on the various stages of the capstone project, to include but not limited to topic section, thesis, resources, and supporting information. Prerequisites: Completion of all prior required core and concentration courses, or permission of the program director.
Learn the skills and strategies necessary to enact real change in your organization as a human resource leader. Explore the impact of globalization, technology, and diversity in the workplace.
This course addresses the history and evolution of human resources leadership, along with current trends and future needs regarding various leadership strategies that are utilized within a broad range of organizations. You will examine the impact that factors such as globalization, technology, and worker diversity have on achieving the work/life balance needs and capabilities required by organizations and individuals. You will also explore the role of the leader in developing a value-based organizational culture capable of achieving strategic goals and objectives. Through the discussion and understanding of human resource leadership principles and personal reflection and integration, you will gain the ability to help design, develop, and construct strategies at an executive level while concurrently helping employees grow and develop as individuals.
This course focuses on the various management systems and best practices utilized within an organization to leverage human capacity to achieve strategic goals. The coursework will help you increase your knowledge of workforce development and retention strategies, through studying topics such as rewards and recognition, motivation and productivity, training and development, cultural awareness, and achieving customer excellence through teamwork and collaborative improvisation. Additionally, you will study how maximized utilization of human capital has become the centerpiece for success in an increasingly complex world, and how human resource leaders must confront ambitious goals while balancing a volatile economic market, environmental and legal risks, advancements in technology, and workforce needs that are all evolving at an increasingly rapid pace. You will also explore various measurement tools designed to help assess the efficiency and effectiveness of management systems employed and analyze methods for developing a blueprint for executing strategic objectives.
This course in capstone studies provides students the opportunity to synthesize learning from all previous courses and to apply the concepts and principles in two ways: the preparation of a written capstone project that offers a practical or theoretical solution to an organizational challenge or issue of contemporary importance and relevance to the work or career goals of each student; and a 1500-word paper suitable for publication in a professional journal. Students will be required to exhibit in-depth critical thinking, organizational analysis, and effective writing. Course assignments will maximize the exchange of student suggestions and comments on the various stages of the capstone project, to include but not limited to topic section, thesis, resources, and supporting information. Prerequisites: Completion of all prior required core and concentration courses, or permission of the program director.
Study effective change management strategies, modern initiatives, and how to analyze successful or failing practices within your organization.
To paraphrase Jack Welch from his book, Straight from the Gut, if the rate of change outside your organization is greater than the rate of change inside your organization, the end is in sight. In order to remain competitive, companies are continually changing and evolving in myriad ways. This course is focused on helping students develop the tips, tools, and techniques to be a successful consultant on change management. You will examine models for implementing change initiatives, learn how the models can be adapted for various circumstances and situations, evaluate the key attributes of successful consultants, and analyze personal strengths and weaknesses for being a consultant.
Organizations of all types are clamoring for employees or consultants with the expertise to lead the implementation of change initiatives. As such, this course aims to provide students with the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to help others make an immediate impact in their organizations. Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on practical application of implementing change initiatives. You will analyze and synthesize information from real-world case studies of successful and unsuccessful change initiatives to determine what worked and what did not work.
This course in capstone studies provides students the opportunity to synthesize learning from all previous courses and to apply the concepts and principles in two ways: the preparation of a written capstone project that offers a practical or theoretical solution to an organizational challenge or issue of contemporary importance and relevance to the work or career goals of each student; and a 1500-word paper suitable for publication in a professional journal. Students will be required to exhibit in-depth critical thinking, organizational analysis, and effective writing. Course assignments will maximize the exchange of student suggestions and comments on the various stages of the capstone project, to include but not limited to topic section, thesis, resources, and supporting information. Prerequisites: Completion of all prior required core and concentration courses, or permission of the program director.
Our degree can help you advance in your current role, move into higher-level leadership positions, and even increase your earning potential. In fact, the average management professional in 2016 earned $100,790, while the average top executive earned more than $100,000 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Our graduates have pursued a variety of roles, including:
Our alumni have attained positions at top organizations, including*:
of responding Master of Science in Leadership alumni reported higher job satisfaction as a result of our leadership program.*
of responding Master of Science in Leadership alumni said they acquired practical skills they can apply to their job.*
All of our of responding Master of Science in Leadership graduates would recommend our online program to someone they know.*Read more about our Master of Science in Leadership student outcomes.
*Source: Norwich University Master of Science in Leadership Graduate Survey, fielded March 2016.
Speak to one of our knowledgeable admissions advisors today - we can help answer your questions about your program of interest.
Toni Raftery is the Academic Director for the Master of Public Administration, Master of Science in Leadership, Master of Science in Management, Bachelor of Science in Management, and the Bachelor of Science in Business for Norwich's College of Graduate and Continuing Studies, where she has worked since 2004. During her time at Norwich, she has served as the Director of Academic Operations, Associate Program Director for the Business Administration and Leadership graduate programs, an instructional developer, and lead project manager for the College of Graduate and Continuing Studies. In addition, she teaches leadership, marketing, project management, human resource management, and the capstone courses for Norwich Online.
Professor Raftery is an accomplished leader with experience in program development, project management, marketing, and operations in various industries, including education, publishing, specialty foods, restaurants, and the ski industry. Before Norwich, she was an international publishing company's website and online marketing manager and co-owned a small specialty foods company. She has degrees in Anthropology and Sociology for Northern Vermont University, a certificate from Trinity College's Small Business Program, and graduate degrees in Public Administration and Business Administration: Project Management Concentration. Toni is a member of the Omicron Delta Kappa, Delta Mu Delta National Leadership Honor Societies, and the Project Management Institute.
The most effective leaders share certain qualities: exceptional communication skills, a strategic outlook, strong ethical convictions, emotional intelligence, and passion. It’s how they lead that differs. Norwich University’s Master of Science in Leadership helps a wide range of professionals develop their leadership styles and the skills to lead and inspire positive change in their organizations.
Norwich University has a long history of leadership with graduates that have been central to some of the greatest military, social, and business decisions of the past 200 years. Now it’s your turn to join our tradition of leadership.
Request more information about this program.
Learn from a faculty of expert senior and mid-level leaders.
Build your leadership development portfolio around your career goals and track your progress as you prompt change and growth in your life and work.
Network and develop professional relationships with a diverse group of students.
Engage in a curriculum that combines contemporary business theory with workplace application for immediate results.
Develop a greater understanding of a range of perspectives about leadership.
Apply to one of four start dates.
Benefit from a university recognized as offering Best Value with respect to high academic quality and low net cost of attendance, according to U.S. News & World Report.*
*Rankings are based on undergraduate programs and on students who received the average level of need-based financial aid.
Norwich University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (formerly the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.).
Jennifer Gagnon is the Associate Program Director for the Master of Public Administration, Master of Science in Information Systems, and Master of Science in Criminal Justice programs. She joined Norwich University in August 2006, and spent several years supporting several graduate programs and advising students through their academic journey at Norwich. In 2009, she completed the Master of Justice Administration program at Norwich and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications.
Iphagainia (Iphy) Tanguay will be joined Norwich's Student Service Advisor team in November 2017. Iphy graduated with a Master of Justice Administration from Norwich and earned her bachelor’s degree is in Sociology/Criminal Justice from Trinity College of Vermont. She has also recently completed our Teaching and Learning Certificate. Prior to this role, Iphy has the Director of Residency Life & Student Housing at Norwich for 17 years.
William "Joe" Shirey is an adjunct faculty member at Norwich University. His career includes 15 years of senior level leadership and consulting experience in strategic planning, leadership development, program management, organizational analysis, metrics development, executive coaching, and process and product improvement. He is currently an independent consultant, and founder of ISE Consulting, a veteran-owned small business that provides consulting to commercial, government, and non-profit organizations.
Lowell A. Doringo has held a wide variety of roles focused on leadership and talent development, beginning with his work at the Walt Disney World® Resort in Orlando, FL, as a business programs facilitator with the Disney Institute, a Project Consultant with Global Operations Training, Training Manager for Park Operations. In 2007, he was selected among Disney's 62,000 employees to serve as the Walt Disney World Ambassador, a role originally created by Walt Disney to serve as Disney's official spokesperson and goodwill emissary to all nations.
Jeremy Hodges, PhD, is the Academic Associate Program Director for the Master of Science in Executive Leadership and Master of Science in Leadership programs. He has over 12 years of higher education administration and teaching experience, primarily focused in leadership, faculty development and evaluation, knowledge management, space science, research methods, and statistics.
Get to know the graduates of Norwich’s online Master of Science in Leadership program.
Resources
Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EDT
Extended hours available by appointment
Call: 1-802-962-4330
Email: onlineadmissions@norwich.edu
Please Note: All eligibility requirements are expected to be met unless noted in specific articulation agreements or memoranda of understanding (MOUs).
We encourage you to contact an admissions advisor (see below) if you need help at any stage of the application process. You will be required to submit the following items:
To contact an admissions advisor:
The Master of Science in Leadership program is an investment in your future that we can help you manage from a financial perspective. There are many ways to get financial assistance and many strategies that can help you achieve your goals. Whatever your individual situation, we can guide you through the financial planning process.
Ways to Pay
Do You Qualify for a Tuition Discount?
We Accept Military Benefits
Technology - $300/term
Library - $75/term
Graduation - $150/one-time
Students take six courses that cover a wide range of topics and provide them insight into their own leadership style and emotional intelligence quotient. Other course topics include leadership fundamentals, strategic communication, leading change, strategic organizational behavior, and developing a learning organization.
Students can choose from one of four concentrations: organizational leadership, public sector/government/military leadership, human resources leadership, or leading change management consulting.
The program's six courses (each six credits) take approximately 18 months to complete. Depending on when you start the program, you can expect your degree to be conferred in 18 to 24 months.
Master of Science in Leadership alumni have found employment in a variety of public, private, and government organizations, including Capital One, Cargill, Caterpillar Inc, Omnicell, Toyota, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and numerous branches of the U.S. military. Many alumni now own their own consulting firms.
All organizational leadership program faculty members have advanced degrees (most are terminal) and are subject matter experts in leadership. They represent a wide variety of academic disciplines including: public administration, justice administration, philosophy, public affairs, criminology, education, law, and human services. They must demonstrate a wide range of university/college-level teaching experience and a history of leadership in academia, the private sector or the public sector.
When you apply for admission to the leadership program, you can submit transcripts and course outlines from previously attended institutions of higher education to be considered for transfer credits. Transfer credits will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and may be accepted for up to 12 credits. Norwich complies with VA regulations and guidelines as they pertain to transfer credits.
Through an agreement between Norwich University and the Department of the Army/U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, up to six credit hours will be awarded toward the degree for OL550 Strategic Organizational Behavior.
Learn more about Norwich University’s transfer credit policy.
Norwich University offers a range of opportunities to help you lower your overall tuition costs. Contact our admissions team today to learn more about the below options. Please note that scholarships are not additive. In addition to the below scholarships, students may also be eligible for discounts if their organization partners with Norwich University.
Achievement Scholarship
Recognizing your past academic and professional achievements, the Achievement Scholarship is for newly enrolled students. You could receive a $4,200 scholarship, which will be distributed equally over the courses of the program. To be considered for this scholarship opportunity, submit your application package (application form, resume, letter of intent, and essay (if applicable)) for your program of interest at least one week prior to the upcoming application deadline. The Scholarship Selection Committee will review all application materials and select the recipient.
Norwich Alumni Scholarship
Norwich University alumni and their spouses, parents, and children are eligible to receive our Alumni Scholarship. The scholarship is award for each term of enrollment at $425 per term.
Active Duty Military Scholarship
Active duty, National Guard, and Reserve personnel are eligible to receive a $250 award for each term of enrollment in an online master’s degree program.
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