Gain the agility and skills necessary to be an effective leader while responding to challenges and driving organizational growth.
What you’ll study
A Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Organizational Leadership provides students with the educational background necessary to succeed in a broad spectrum of professions and is an excellent foundation for the pursuit of several advanced degree programs. This is an interdisciplinary degree that exposes students to the business, social science and humanities concepts that will provide a solid foundation in critical thinking, analytical reasoning, writing and communication. Organizations are looking for leaders that understand work behavior, interpersonal and group dynamics as well as how to solve problems for growth and success.
Faculty & Staff
Email any of our advisors with any questions you have about completing this program.
Katrina Sweet, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Business Administration/Program Coordinator, Business Administration and Organizational Leadership
Katrina Sweet, Ph.D.
Organizational Leadership Program Overview
This multidisciplinary business and behavioral science program focuses on practical and theoretical aspects of the various components related to the administration and management of sports/fitness/wellness personnel, facilities, programs and businesses.
Here are some highlighted courses included in this Major:
Principles of Management (BUS 206)
A survey of the primary functions of management including planning organizing, leading and controlling. Emphasis on the importance of management as it relates to the various functional areas of both manufacturing and service businesses.
Organizational Behavior (BUS 308)
Study of organizational behavior of individuals and the collective behavior of humans in organizations; emphasis on development of managerial skills, interpersonal communication, behavioral dimensions of decision making, motivation, leadership and organizational development.
Transformational Leadership (ADM 308)
Transformation Leadership examines the history, dynamics and expectations of transformational leadership. Students will build a solid foundation on transformational leadership and how to apply this model/theory to their organization.
Organizational Leadership (ADM 305)
Various leadership styles and theories in administrative roles and organizations are examined in this course. Students will apply styles and theories in case studies and provide in-depth analyses of leadership.
Leadership and Change (ADM 400)
This course examines theoretical and practical issues of organizational change which includes rationale, success and failure with change initiatives, effective leadership of change and ethical concerns.
Strategic Leadership (ADM 405)
Strategic Leadership examines how to think about organizations strategically by exerting influence through strategy organizational design and culture as well as leading change efforts. This course will build an understanding of the core concepts of strategy making and help participants achieve a strategic mindset.
What are the courses like in Organizational Leadership at NCWU?
Check out our latest university catalog for learning goals, course descriptions and suggested plans of study for NC Wesleyan University’s Organizational Leadership Programs.
How does this degree prepare students for a Leadership career?
The skills you attain in our Leadership program can prepare you for positions of elevated responsibility. With applied assignments from industry professionals, you can unlock your gifts of servant leadership, transformational leadership, strategic leadership, and/or executive coaching to solve complex organizational problems.
By the Numbers:
- 10% Career Growth*
- $65-70K Median Salary*
*Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor (2021)
Organizational Leadership Career Options:
- Administrative Service Manager – Oversee daily operations, manage office procedures, and ensure organizational efficiency in corporate, government, or nonprofit settings.
- Sales – Utilize leadership and communication skills to drive business growth, manage client relationships, and lead high-performing sales teams.
- Human Resources – Support employee development, implement workplace policies, and oversee hiring processes.
- Entrepreneurship – Use strategic planning and leadership expertise to launch, manage, and scale successful business ventures.
- Retail – Lead store operations, improve customer experience, and drive sales performance.
- General Management – Supervise teams, optimize workflows, and make data-driven decisions to improve business outcomes.
- Management and Leadership Rotational Career Programs – Gain hands-on experience across multiple departments to prepare for leadership roles within major corporations.
- Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Guide an organization’s vision, strategy, and overall success while making key business decisions.
- Strategic Planner – Analyze market trends, develop business strategies, and help organizations achieve long-term goals.
- Operations Manager – Oversee production, logistics, and day-to-day processes to improve efficiency and profitability.
- Executive Director – Lead nonprofit or corporate initiatives, manage teams, and drive organizational impact.
- Project Manager – Coordinate teams, manage budgets, and ensure projects are completed on time and within scope.
Looking for more ideas? Check out these resources from NCWU Career Development & Leadership and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET).
Wesleyan is dedicated to assisting students in their professional development offering resources and guidance for hands-on learning experiences through internships, assignments within the courses and job search resources. Let us help you focus on your education and career at the same time!
24/7 Tutoring Services. Free & Easy.
North Carolina Wesleyan University is partnered with Brainfuse, a complimentary online tutoring service, provided to all Wesleyan students. This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and features live tutoring in the subjects of writing, reading, math, computer and technology, science and business.
Student Organizations
Be engaged at NCWU!
Choose from 30+ student-led clubs and organizations to connect with other students who share your academic interests or… create your own.
Transfer Articulation Agreements
To simplify the transfer process, NC Wesleyan University has a number of partnerships with other community colleges, universities and institutions that allow students to enroll at NCWU with simple pathways. These agreements outline the courses you should take to prepare for transferring to NCWU. Review the full list of transfer articulation agreements to see if your institution is listed.
