10 Most Affordable Online Organizational Leadership PhDs 2025

Organizational leadership is the ability to create change in complex organizations, such as corporations and nonprofits, by designing and implementing innovative strategies. Organizational leaders motivate team members, promote open communication, and foster problem-solving and decision-making.

Earning a doctoral degree, like a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in organizational leadership, can help advance your leadership career. This article explores degree programs, from cost to curricula, and features ten affordable online doctoral programs. Read on to learn how you can earn an online PhD in organizational leadership.

What Is a PhD in Organizational Leadership?

A PhD in organizational leadership is a research-focused doctoral degree that equips students with the skills to analyze challenges in complex organizations and propose innovative solutions. Students develop an in-depth understanding of topics such as change management, organizational development, and leadership theories. A PhD in organizational leadership online is a program that is conducted through distance-learning coursework.

Can I Earn an Organizational Leadership PhD Online?

Yes, you can earn your organizational leadership PhD online. Many accredited organizational leadership colleges and universities offer online programs in addition to on-campus options. Most of these degree programs are 100% online, though some schools may require on-campus residencies.

How Much Do Online Organizational Leadership PhD Programs Cost?

Online PhD programs in organizational leadership can cost between $26,200 to more than $138,000. The final cost of your doctorate degree depends on your chosen school and program, any eligible transfer credits, and financial aid opportunities, such as grants and scholarships. Public schools are typically less expensive than private schools, and in-state residents can benefit from lower tuition rates.

Cheapest Online PhD in Organizational Leadership Programs

This list showcases some of the top organizational leadership PhD programs with affordable tuition rates. All schools accept the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

1. Louisiana State University

Louisiana State University (LSU) is a large public university that offers an online Doctor of Education (EdD) in leadership studies designed for working professionals. LSU's online EdD program combines academic research with practical applications, preparing graduates to apply leadership theory to real-world challenges. The 63-credit program covers subjects such as group dynamics, organizational change and influence, data-driven decision-making, and research methods.

• Estimated tuition cost: $415 per credit hour
• Financial aid: LSU offers grants, loans, scholarships, and Credit for Prior Learning (CPL).
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. Troy University

Based in Troy, AL, Troy University is a mid-sized public school with a PhD in global leadership with a specialization in organizational leadership. This PhD program focuses on developing leadership skills through a global perspective. The curriculum is 63 credits and includes courses such as higher education administration, strategic communication, and organizational leadership.

• Estimated tuition cost: $550 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Eligible students can receive grants, loans, and active duty military and veterans' benefits.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

3. Liberty University

Liberty University (LU) is a Lynchburg, VA-based school with an extensive online learning platform. Learners can enroll in LU's online PhD in organization and management, specializing in leadership. This online PhD program is 60 credits and conducted in an eight-week course format. Courses include leading theory, organizational change, and ethical leadership.

• Estimated tuition cost: $610 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, and loans are available. LU offers reduced tuition rates for military members.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. Columbia International University

Located in Columbia, SC, Columbia International University (CIU) is a small private school that offers a PhD in organizational leadership. The 48-credit degree program is delivered entirely online and can be completed in 27 months. Graduates from CIU's PhD program move on to leadership roles in nonprofits, corporations, healthcare organizations, and higher education institutions.

• Estimated tuition cost: $710 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Students can apply for grants, loans, and various scholarships.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. Western Michigan University

Western Michigan University (WMU) is a mid-sized public school in Kalamazoo, MI, with an online PhD in organizational change leadership. This leadership degree program combines advanced theory with applied research, enabling students to manage complex challenges and create sustainable solutions. The 60-credit curriculum includes courses such as organizational culture, organizational change leadership, and qualitative research.

• Estimated tuition cost: $10,890 per year (in-state); $15,852 per year (out-of-state)
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, loans, and veterans' and military benefits are available financial aid options.
• Accreditation: HLC

6. Concordia University Chicago

Concordia University Chicago offers two online doctoral programs: a PhD in organizational leadership and an EdD in organizational leadership. The 67-credit PhD program approaches leadership from a theoretical and research-focused perspective. The 61-credit EdD program emphasizes practical applications to real-world cases.

Both degree programs hone students' expertise in contemporary leadership theory, strategic planning, and innovative change.

• Estimated tuition cost: $753 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Students can apply for grants, scholarships, and loans; veterans and active duty military members are eligible for benefits.
• Accreditation: HLC

7. William Woods University

Located in Fulton, MO, William Woods University is a small private school with an online PhD in organizational leadership. The PhD program is 54 credits, and full-time students can graduate in two years. Doctoral students take courses such as ethical leadership, organizational environment, interpersonal dynamics, and management concepts for leaders.

• Estimated tuition cost: $780 per credit Hou
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, loans, and employer tuition benefit programs are available.
• Accreditation: HLC

8. Walden University

Walden University (Walden) is a distance-learning institution based in Minneapolis, MN. Walden offers a PhD in management with a specialization in organizational strategy. Online courses include the socially conscious leader, challenging conventional leadership and influence, and organizational decision-making. Walden requires doctoral students to attend a PhD residency, either in person or virtually.

• Estimated tuition cost: $780 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Financial aid is available via grants, loans, and scholarships. Walden University provides tuition discounts to military members, alumni, first responders, and other public service officials.
• Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

9. University of Arizona Global Campus

The University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC) has an online PhD in organizational development and leadership. The degree program is designed for working professionals, and doctoral students can study at their own pace.

Doctoral students take courses such as leadership and organizational cultures, instructional systems design, and human resources business strategies.

• Estimated tuition cost: $812 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Loans, grants, scholarships, and CPL can help lower tuition costs.
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

10. Indiana Wesleyan University

Located in Marion, IN, Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) is a mid-sized private school with a PhD in organizational leadership program. Forbes Advisor recently ranked IWU's PhD program as the number one online leadership program in the country.

The program consists of 24 courses and a doctoral dissertation. Courses include leadership development, organizational and adult learning, and global perspectives on leadership.

• Estimated tuition cost: $890 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Eligible students may receive grants, scholarships, loans, and military discounts to offset education costs.
• Accreditation: HLC

How We Rank Schools

We use the following criteria when deciding which schools to feature, such as program reputation and tuition rates.

• Accreditation: All of the colleges and universities featured are regionally accredited institutions, ensuring they uphold quality education standards.
• Affordability: All of the featured schools offer financial aid and have tuition rates of $1,000 or less per credit hour.
• Program reputation: A doctoral program's reputation is determined by its curriculum, experienced faculty, accreditation status, and any special recognition or industry awards.

What To Expect From an Online PhD in Organizational Leadership

An online PhD in organizational leadership program prepares graduates to become leading academics and executives across a range of industries. Online programs typically incorporate research methodologies, advanced theory coursework, and a dissertation. Core courses can include leadership theory and practice, organizational behavior, and human resource management.

Many courses are asynchronous and self-paced. Full-time students can complete most programs in two to three years. Part-time students may need up to seven years to earn their PhD.

FAQs About the Cheapest Online PhDs in Organizational Leadership

We answer frequently asked questions about online programs, from degree reputability to admission requirements.

Is an Online PhD in Organizational Leadership Worth It?

Holding a PhD in organizational leadership can afford you job flexibility and higher salaries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), top leadership executives earned a median wage of $105,350 in 2024.

However, earning your doctorate is a significant investment in time and money. It's important to weigh your current personal commitments alongside your professional goals before deciding to enroll in an online PhD program.

Are Online Organizational Leadership PhDs Respected?

Yes, online PhDs are respected. Online PhD programs offered by accredited institutions must uphold the same quality education standards as in-person programs. Many faculty members teach and mentor both on-campus and online students.

What Are the Prerequisites for Enrolling in an Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership?

Admission requirements vary according to each school's unique program. Generally, most online doctorate programs require that prospective students hold a master's degree with a minimum grade point average (GPA), submit letters of recommendation, and write an essay or personal statement. Some schools require Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) and Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) scores.

What Is the Cheapest Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership?

One of the most affordable online doctorate programs is Louisiana State University's online EdD in leadership studies. For students interested in earning their PhD, one of the least expensive options is Troy University's PhD in global leadership. Ultimately, what will be the cheapest online degree for you depends on your state and residency status, applicable transfer credits, and eligibility for financial aid.

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