MS in Organizational Leadership: Frequently Asked Questions

No. The MS in Organizational Leadership (MSOL) does not require the GRE or a specific undergraduate major for admission. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.75 and must complete the online Graduate Studies application and submit the application fee and required supporting materials.

We have rolling admissions with term start dates in fall, spring, and summer. Because admission processing and departmental review take time, we recommend submitting a complete application at least two weeks before the first day of classes for the term you want to start. The university academic calendar can be found here to check when classes begin: https://www.wku.edu/registrar/academic_calendars/. 

Yes, transfer credit may be accepted, depending on WKU Graduate School policy and course equivalency. In general, eligible graduate-level coursework from a regionally accredited institution may be considered if it aligns with our program requirements and meets WKU standards. Transfer credit is evaluated after admission as part of your degree plan with your advisor.

We can share general guidance before you apply, but an official transfer-credit evaluation can only be completed after you are admitted, and your official transcripts are on file with WKU Graduate Studies. Once admitted, your assigned advisor will work with you to review your prior graduate coursework and determine which courses, if any, can be applied to your program.

Active-duty members of the U.S. military and veterans, as well as their dependents, are eligible for application fee waivers. If this applies to you, the waiver will be applied automatically once you indicate your military-connected status.

The Master of Science in Organizational Leadership is designed for working professionals who want to strengthen how they lead people, teams, and organizations. The curriculum blends leadership theory with practical application so students build skills they can use immediately in real-world situations. The program consists of 30 credit hours: 21 hours of core courses and 9 hours of electives. 

Yes. The MSOL is 100% online and designed for professionals with work and life responsibilities. The courses are asynchronous, allowing you to complete coursework on your schedule.

Most students complete the MSOL in about two years, although the timeframe can vary depending on how many courses you take each term. 

No. The MSOL does not require a thesis. Students complete a capstone course instead.

Students complete the following core courses (course offerings rotate):

• LEAD 505 – Framing Organizations
• EDFN 505 – Applied Research in Leadership
• LEAD 510 – Ethical Leadership
• LEAD 515 – Leading an Adaptive Organization
• LEAD 520 – Collaborative Team Leadership
• LEAD 535 – Conflict and Negotiation
• LEAD 600 – Organizational Leadership Capstone

There is a list of approved electives to choose from, and you can also work with your advisor to request approval for courses not already pre-approved. A unique feature of our program is that you can co-use your 9 elective hours toward a graduate certificate, meaning that with one or two additional courses, you could complete both the MSOL and a graduate certificate simultaneously. Talk to your advisor early to build a plan that works towards both credentials.

Graduates of the MSOL apply their learning across a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, education, government, nonprofit, and business. The program is designed for professionals who want to advance into leadership roles or expand their impact in their current positions. 

Most courses follow a standard semester 16-week format. Some courses may be offered in shorter, accelerated formats, particularly in the summer. Bi-term availability varies by semester. 

Our online courses are asynchronous, meaning there is no required weekly meeting time. Some instructors may offer optional virtual meetings.

Due dates vary by course and instructor. Many courses follow a weekly structure for readings, discussions, and assignments. Always check the syllabus and Blackboard for exact deadlines. 

You should plan for tuition, a college fee, and textbook costs. Tuition is assessed per credit hour. Western Kentucky University offers a military tuition rate of $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and graduate courses to all service members currently on Active Duty, serving in a Reserve unit (excluding those on Individual Ready Reserve) or in a component of the National Guard. For current tuition and fee rates, visit the Office of Student Billing and Account Services webpage. 

There are a variety of financial resources available for graduate students, including graduate assistantships, VA/GI Bill benefits, and federal student loan options. Visit the WKU Graduate School financial resources page for a full list and details on how to apply.