Master of Science in Leadership — Online
The Master of Science in Leadership prepares you to meet the evolving challenges of today's world by helping you cultivate a personal leadership philosophy.
Take a quick look
We’re committed to creating an education as unique as your career path. So, whether your goal is a new career or moving up in your field, our innovative programs will get you going your way.
01
Customize your plan
We work with you to map your path to your goal.
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Learn from experience
From real-world case studies to employer-based projects, we prepare you to manage what comes next.
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Choose your focus
Whatever you’re passionate about, you’ll find the classes to sharpen your specialty.
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Study anywhere, on your time
Part-time or full-time, we move at your speed, to get you where you’re going.
Overview
As the global workforce continues to diversify and expand into networks of employees worldwide, the challenges involved in cultivating, leading, managing, and inspiring teams have become more complex. The Master of Science in Leadership program leverages a learning laboratory model to demystify these trends and deepen your leadership skills through role-playing, interactive simulations, and consulting for a real-world organization. You’ll learn with faculty experts from a broad range of industries, and you’ll join a global alumni network of visionary leaders who have found success in diverse fields. Choose from seven market-aligned concentrations and focus your studies to support your career objectives as you develop and apply the tools to imagine and drive change.
This is an online program.
More Details
Unique Features
- Online program designed for working professionals and those looking to enhance their career experience
- Specialize your focus by choosing from seven different concentrations
- Participate in a capstone project
- Opportunity for integrated experiential learning
Program Objectives
- Develop and bolster your leadership competencies
- Explore key leadership areas such as: management, ethics, strategic thinking, and organizational culture
- Prepare for the challenges and opportunities associated with leading in a global world
- Exercise leadership skills through action-learning and research projects
- Improve your ability to lead and work both independently and collaboratively
Mission Statement
Our approach focuses on developing the leadership potential within each student and prepares them for the skills and expertise that are critically needed in today’s constantly changing global marketplace. The program combines real-world lessons with an action-learning global approach that is designed to build and strengthen the leadership skills needed to effectively cultivate, lead, manage and inspire teams through ever-changing workplace environments. Through this program, we teach you how to imagine and drive change.
Unique Transfer Credit Opportunities
Start with your Certification. Leave with your Graduate Credential.
HR Professionals with SHRM or HRCI certifications can be awarded advanced standing transfer credit toward a Graduate Certificate in Human Resources Management, the MS in Human Resources Management, or the MS in Corporate and Organizational Communication and the MS in Leadership – both of which have concentrations in Human Resources Management.
About the SHRM and HRCI Certification Transfer Credit Opportunities:
Why consider a graduate degree from Northeastern University? We recognize the knowledge and HR competencies demonstrated by those who have earned their SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR certifications. As a result, credential-holders have the unique opportunity to accelerate through a Northeastern University Graduate Program by applying this credential in exchange for transfer credit.
Successful applicants for the Graduate Certificate in Human Resources Management:
Will receive 3 quarter hours of transfer credit - a 17% savings in tuition - for HRM 6015 Introduction to Human Resources Management.
Successful applicants for a master's degree program with their SHRM-CP or PHR:
- Will receive 3 quarter hours of transfer credit - a 6% savings in tuition.
- Will be able to earn a master’s degree by completing 14 courses, rather than 15.
- Transfer credit is awarded for the following courses: HRM 6015 Introduction to Human Resources Management.
Successful applicants for a master's degree program with their SHRM-SCP or SPHR:
- Will receive 6 quarter hours of transfer credit - a 13% savings in tuition.
- Will be able to earn a master’s degree by completing 13 courses, rather than 15.
- Transfer credit is awarded for the following courses: HRM 6015 Introduction to Human Resources Management and HRM 6005 Creating a High-Performance Organization.
Contact us today for more information by completing the form on our page.
Accreditation
In October of 2016, the Master of Science in Leadership with a concentration in Project Management accreditation was re-affirmed for the maximum five-year accreditation cycle (originally accredited in 2009) by the PMI Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs (GAC), the world's leading association for project management professionals. Accreditation is achieved by meeting the GAC’s rigorous standards, which include an assessment of program objectives and outcomes, a review of onsite and online resources, evaluations of faculty and students, and proof of continuous improvements in the area of project management.
Graduates of our GAC-accredited program are granted a substantial 12-month reduction credit toward the experience requirement when they complete an application for any PMI certification. This means that those applying for the PMI certification will only need 24 months of project management experience, instead of 36 months as outlined by GAC. This new benefit applies retroactively to our program’s initial accreditation date of 2009.
| Enrollment Data | |||||
| Annual Enrollments | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 |
| MS in Leadership. Project Management Concentration | 134 | 124 | 90 | 67 | 64 |
| Degrees Conferred | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 |
| MS in Leadership. Project Management Concentration | 51 | 46 | 43 | 20 | 20 |
Check out your career prospects
Beginning your journey with us is a big decision. But it's a smart one, if you want to be recognized as a leader in a field that is growing exponentially and evolving rapidly. That's why we're constantly innovating curriculum to anticipate your industry's needs. No matter where your organization goes, you can lead the way.
of US companies say their number one strategic priority is closing their current leadership gaps
average salary of a Human Resources Manager in 2017
Experiential / Co-op opportunities
Northeastern's signature experience-powered learning model has been at the heart of the university for more than a century. It combines world-class academics with professional practice, allowing you to acquire relevant, real-world skills you can immediately put into action in your current workplace.
This makes a Northeastern education a dynamic, transformative experience, giving you countless opportunities to grow as a professional and person.
Get Set with a Custom Course Plan
General Requirements
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| 1.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 4.00 |
Electives
| 2.00 |
Complete at least one of the following:
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 |
Complete at least one of the following:
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | 4.00 | |
| 1.00 | ||
| 3.00 | 4.00 |
Concentrations
Concentration in Health Management
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 |
Concentration in Human Resources Management
Required Courses:
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 |
Electives:
Complete three of the following. (Students waived out of HRM 6015, complete four of the following).
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 |
Concentration in Leading and Managing Technical Projects
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 |
Concentration in Nonprofit Management
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 |
Concentration in Organizational Communication
| 3.00 | ||
| 1.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 |
Concentration in Project Management
Required Courses
Note: Students with project management experience are not required to take PJM 5900:
| 4.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 |
Electives
Complete one of the following. (Note: Students who are not required to take PJM 5900 complete two of the following).
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 |
Concentration in Sport and Social Change
| 3.00 | ||
| 4.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 |
Follow our leaders
Our faculty represents a wide cross-section of professional practices and fields. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside students to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.
"The greatest pleasure university professors can derive from teaching is to see their students succeed. It has been my great honor to observe the graduates of my program use their knowledge to make a positive difference at the global level. They are force multipliers throughout the world because they set the right example and lead from the front.” Dr. Les Stein, Faculty Lead, Master of Science in Leadership."
My participation in the Northeastern University Master of Science in Leadership program provided a personal and professional growth opportunity. Coupled with experiential learning, I now have increased responsibilities and have become a trusted advisor to the CEO. I highly encourage and recommend this program for anyone desiring a life-changing education.
Master Sergeant Philip Davis, USMC (Ret) Master of Science in Leadership, 2018
Now Let's Talk Admissions
You know where you are headed and you've seen how our program will lead you there. So let's get going. Here's what you need to know before you enroll.
Application Requirements
- Online application
- Statement of purpose (500–1000 words): Identify your educational goals and expectations of the program. Please be aware that Northeastern University's academic policy on plagiarism applies to your statement of purpose.
- Professional resumé
- Unofficial undergraduate transcripts; official transcripts required at the time of admission
- Two letters of recommendation from individuals who have either academic or professional knowledge of your capabilities such as a faculty member, colleague, or mentor, preferably one from your current employer
- English language proficiency proof. Students for whom English is not their primary language must submit one of the following:
- Official associate or bachelor's degree transcript from an accredited college or university in the U.S., stating degree conferral and date
- TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, Duolingo, or NU Global Exam scores
International Requirements
Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.
Global Engagement Learn how our teaching and research benefit from a worldwide network of students, faculty, and industry partners.
Financing Requirements
Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.
How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.
Prior Learning Assessment/Transfer Credits
Some courses in this program offer transfer credit for students’ experience through prior learning assessments and professional certifications. View the full list of eligible certifications and transfer credits.
Stackable Certificates
You can stack the following Graduate Certificate into this degree: Leadership, Human Resources Management, Leading and Managing Technical Projects, Nonprofit Management, Organizational Communication, Project Management
Cost and Tuition
Estimated Total Tuition
This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2020-2021 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.
Application Deadlines
Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis; however, we do recommend following the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term.
| Winter 2021 | Deadline |
|---|---|
| November 2, 2020 | International out-of-country application complete (start date: January 19, 2021) |
| December 7, 2020 | International in-country application complete (start date: January 19, 2021) |
| January 1, 2021 | Domestic application complete (first half start: January 19, 2021) |
| February 12, 2021 | Domestic application complete (second half start: February 22, 2021) |
| Spring 2021 | Deadline |
|---|---|
| February 8, 2021 | International out-of-country application complete (start date: April 12, 2021) |
| March 8, 2021 | International in-country application complete (start date: April 12, 2021) |
| April 2, 2021 | Domestic application complete (first half start: April 12, 2021) |
| May 14, 2021 | Domestic application complete (second half start: May 24, 2021) |
| Summer 2021 | Deadline |
|---|---|
| May 10, 2021 | International out-of-country application complete (start date: July 12, 2021) |
| June 7, 2021 | International in-country application complete (start date: July 12, 2021) |
| July 2, 2021 | Domestic application complete (start date: July 12, 2021) |
| Fall 2021 | Deadline |
|---|---|
| July 19, 2021 | International out-of-country application complete (start date: September 20, 2021) |
| August 23, 2021 | International in-country application complete (start date: September 20, 2021) |
| September 7, 2021 | Domestic application complete (first half start: September 20, 2021) |
| October 18, 2021 | Domestic application complete (second half start: November 1, 2021) |
Student Body Profile
Benefits of a Northeastern Master's Degree
Below is a look at where our Leadership alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.
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Where They Work
- Boston Public Schools
- State Street
- Raytheon
- United States Air Force
- Massachusetts General Hospital
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What They Do
- Education
- Business Development
- Community and Social Services
- Operations
- Human Resources
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What They're Skilled At
- Leadership
- Public Speaking
- Management
- Teaching
- Strategic Planning
Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on Linkedin.
Career Opportunities and Services
Overview
Did You Know?
Organizations with the highest quality leaders are 13x more likely to outperform their competitors in key success metrics (DDI, 2015).
Did You Know?
By enrolling in Northeastern, you gain access to our global network of more than 255,000 alumni and 3,350+ employer partners.
Did You Know?
Advanced degree holders earn a salary 35% higher than those with a bachelor's degree.
From Our Alumni
"Professors consistently took deep dives into their areas of expertise and made sure to tie it back to real-world examples. That allowed me to bring new ideas to the workplace that were directly applicable to the problems we were facing." — Rick Keilty, Alumnus
From Our Faculty
"Northeastern is a world-class university with a tremendous trajectory. It's a wonderful institution where faculty can make a significant impact." — Associate Professor Stratis Ioannidis