MACU Wordmark

Organizational Leadership

Master of Arts in Leadership

Every sector today needs leaders who are not only visionary and innovative but also trustworthy, collaborative, and transformative. The Master of Arts in Leadership with an Emphasis in Organizational Leadership at Mid-America Christian University (MACU), through the Thomas School of Global Leadership, is uniquely designed to meet this demand.

Request More Information →

EXPLORE THE MASTER OF LEADERSHIP: Organizational Leadership EMPHASIS

Transform Your Career with a Purpose-Driven Leadership Master’s

MACU has offered online master’s degree programs since 2008, helping adult learners pursue their professional goals while balancing busy careers and family lives. More than just a leadership degree, this program prepares graduates to thrive as ethical servant leaders equipped to influence organizations in business, education, ministry, government, and nonprofits—with a global mindset rooted in a Christ-centered worldview.

Our graduates are not only competent in leadership theory and practice but also ready to navigate complexity, foster human growth, leverage data and technology, champion collaboration, and design future-proof strategies for a rapidly changing world.

The program integrates leadership principles with strategic and global leadership practices, preparing graduates to lead people, teams, and organizations across cultures with integrity and effectiveness. You will graduate equipped to lead yourself and others, navigate complex global challenges, foster collaboration across diverse environments, and develop innovative solutions that drive meaningful and lasting organizational change—whether in local communities or around the world .

MACU’s ML was listed (2023) as one of the Best Programs in the USA by Organizational Leadership Education (Wiley University Services).

MACU is accredited through the Higher Learning  Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of  Colleges and Schools (NCA).

Explore the Master of Arts in Leadership with an Emphasis in Organizational Leadership

This program is a flexible, career-advancing pathway for professionals seeking to sharpen their influence and expand their leadership capacity in local and global contexts. It is especially designed for:

  • Organizational leaders, managers, and CEOs aspiring to strategic and transformative leadership.
  • Leadership consultants, trainers, and coaches who want advanced credentials and tools to multiply their impact.
  • Leaders in nonprofit, higher education, government, and ministry seeking to strengthen their voice and articulate lasting transformation.

Graduates leave prepared to lead across borders, cultures, and industries—standing alongside peers from top national programs in leadership, but with the distinctive foundation of faith, global vision, and servant leadership.

“Leadership skills rank among the most in-demand across industries: in 2023, leadership & people-management competencies were rated “very important” or “extremely important” in 185 occupations with projected fast growth and many openings.” — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Program Highlights

  • 100% Online – Designed for busy, working professionals around the world.
  • Accelerated and Affordable – Your program is broken into:
    • 30 credit hours
    • 18 months
    • 10 courses
    • One six-week course at a time
  • Areas of Emphasis – Tailor your degree in:
  • Distinctive Methodology – Integrates a global context, servant leadership principles, and a biblical worldview through case studies and field experiences.
  • Career Networking Opportunities
  • Expert Faculty – Diverse professors and practitioners, all with doctorates in their specialty areas.
  • Applied & Portfolio-Oriented – Instead of a traditional thesis, you’ll complete an Integrative Leadership Project and a Professional Portfolio that showcase your expertise to future employers.
  • Personalized Attention – Small classes, engaged faculty, and meaningful peer collaboration.
  • No GMAT/GRE required for entrance
  • Special benefits and application of eligible service credits for veterans and active military

Careers

Graduates of the program are well-positioned for leadership roles such as:

  • Board Member or Nonprofit Executive
  • Chief Executive Officer
  • Church or Ministry Leader
  • City Manager / Government Administrator
  • Educational Leader / Higher Ed Administrator
  • Health Services Manager
  • Human Resources Director
  • Leadership & Organizational Training, Consulting, and Coaching
  • Managerial Positions
  • Organizational Development Specialist
  • Politician or Policy Advisor
  • Public Relations or Communications Leader
  • Strategic Planner / Management Consultant

STUDENT TESTIMONIALS

“The MA in Leadership provided a structured learning experience that stretched and equipped me to lead with greater effectiveness. Through a blend of theory, theology, and real-world application, I found the courses designed to fit with my schedule and the content to be highly applicable to several ministry settings. I’d highly recommend this program to those ready to thoughtfully elevate their personal or organizational leadership and expand their influence within a Christian worldview.”

– Steve Southards
Lead Pastor, Salem Church of God

“Earning my Master’s of Leadership at MACU was an incredibly rewarding experience! As a working mom of three, I valued the flexibility of online classes, which allowed me to balance family, work, and studies. I appreciated the real-world projects that let me immediately apply what I was learning, and writing weekly devotionals offered insights and wisdom that continue to shape my personal and professional growth. This degree has equipped me to make a greater impact in my work and continue growing as a leader.” 

– Jill Hanson
Director of Partnerships and Engagement, Kimmel Foundation (Kimray)

“My experience in the MACU Master of Arts in Leadership program elevated my leadership capacity in transformative ways. From navigating organizational change to leading through the complexities of the pandemic, the program gave me practical tools, spiritual grounding, and a renewed confidence in my calling. I am grateful for how it equipped me to lead with wisdom, courage, and Christ-centered purpose.”

– Christian Mael Velez
Groups Pastor & Teaching Team, North Church (Edmond, OK)

THE PLACE TO BE

At Mid-America Christian University, leadership is more than a position—it’s a calling. Nestled in Oklahoma City, but connected globally through the Thomas School of Global Leadership, MACU offers a Christ-centered education with international reach.

Here, you’ll experience:

  • A community where purpose and passion intersect.
  • Innovative programs that integrate biblical worldview with global leadership practice.
  • Small class sizes, personalized mentoring, and a global network of leaders shaping transformation worldwide.

Whether you study online or visit our welcoming campus, MACU is the place to launch a leadership journey that extends far beyond your workplace—into your community, your nation, and the world.

Meet our Leadership Faculty

Dr. LeAnn Brown

Chair, Thomas School of Global Leadership

Dr. Jesus Sampedro

Program Director & Professor, Thomas School of Global Leadership

Ready to Get Started?

Ready to take the next step toward your future at MACU? Start your journey today by applying online or scheduling a campus visit to experience our welcoming community firsthand. Whether you’re exploring programs or ready to enroll, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Your path to purpose starts now!

Apply →
Schedule a Visit →