Online Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and Learning
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Online Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and Learning
The bachelor's in organizational leadership and learning (BSOLL) is an ideal way for adult professionals with extensive work experience to complete a highly versatile bachelor’s degree and propel their career forward.
UofL's online Organizational Leadership and Learning bachelor's is a skills-driven degree completion program designed to prepare you for career advancement or changes in today’s competitive and evolving workforce.
Choose from nine specialized tracks to fit your career goals and become an even more valuable member of any company or organization.
US News & World Report recognition
The online Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and Learning is offered by the College of Education and Human Development at the University of Louisville. For over a decade, UofL Online bachelor’s degrees have been recognized as "Best in the Nation" and "Best for Veterans," by US News & World Report, reflecting the university’s focus on academic excellence and student support.
Enrolled BSOLL students can earn college credit for prior learning and work experience through a designated course and assessment. This provides an opportunity to earn up to 48 credit hours tuition free – up to $26,832 in savings – and graduate faster.
Free Tuition for UofL Health Employees!
Contact your ULH education liaison or HR representative to receive information about tuition remission options.
Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and Learning
100% online
The big picture
UofL's online Organizational Leadership and Learning bachelor's (BSOLL) is a skills-driven degree completion program designed to equip you with the knowledge required for career advancement or change in today’s competitive and evolving workforce.
This is a 120 credit-hour program, with nine specialized tracks and online courses delivered asynchronously (anytime, anywhere) in 8-week terms.
Your previous education, training and work experience can count toward UofL’s online BSOLL degree requirements. You could earn up to 48 credit hours (or 16 courses equivalent) tuition-free for prior learning, which can save you up to $26,832 in tuition cost and time to graduation.
BS OLL online degree highlights
- Acquire in-demand skills such as leadership, project management, talent development and organizational change
- Gain resume-boosting digital badges from industry partners including IBM, Google, Microsoft, Adobe and more, included in various courses at no additional cost to you
- Finish your bachelor's degree online within three semesters (with full-time enrollment status)
- Choose from nine specialized tracks*:
- Leadership, training & organization development
- Health care leadership
- Project management for the modern workforce
- Digital leadership/IT
- Climate, equity and opportunity in the workplace
- Human resource dvelopment
- Counseling and human relations
- Interdisciplinary early childhood education
- Career and technical education
*Learn more about these tracks on the Degree tracks tab!
8-Week classes designed with your busy schedule in mind
The Online Organizational Leadership and Learning degree is intentionally built to support the realities of working professionals balancing full lives and multiple responsibilities, just like you.
Our 100% online courses are delivered asynchronously in 8-week terms, giving you the flexibility to learn on your own time, from anywhere. You can also access our university's array of support services designed for your academic, professional and personal success.
Online BSOLL transfer credit
If you previously started a bachelor's degree but didn't finish, UofL's online organizational leadership and learning bachelor's is designed to help you achieve degree completion. Transfer up to 60 hours from a community college and up to 90 hours from an accredited four-year college. You can also take all your general education requirements online at UofL. UofL academic advisors are available to assist with your degree planning.
Are you a KCTCS student?
Students who have been enrolled at a KCTCS school and have fulfilled all general education requirements can have them transferred in their entirety and may begin immediately with online upper-level coursework at UofL. Visit our KCTCS Transfers Page for more information.
Online student success coaching
As an online student enrolled in the BSOLL program, you will have the opportunity to get additional support from our Online Student Success team to help you build strong academic habits, stay motivated and make progress toward your goals while connecting you with peers and the broader Cardinal community.
Whether you’re balancing school with work, returning after time away or facing academic or personal challenges, our team provides one-on-one guidance, access to resources and personalized strategies to help you succeed.
I found my "more"
"I was very much in a place of seeking. I was trying to identify what was next... This program unlocked freedom for me. It helped me see inside, to identify what my unique passion and gifts are."
David Beumer
Online BS OLL graduate
Leadership learning and growth should fit real life and so should your bachelor’s degree. Take the best next step for your future today and set your aspirations in motion!
What is credit for prior learning?
If you previously started college but haven’t earned your degree, UofL's online Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and Learning can help you achieve your goal of degree completion.
At UofL, we recognize that learning happens in more ways than just through college coursework. Rather than revisiting knowledge already acquired through work experience, training, military activities or professional development, at UofL you will focus on learning new information to advance your skills and progress through the program faster.
How is credit awarded for PLA?
Prior to the PLA course, an academic advisor will provide a degree audit identifying the number of credits potentially awarded through the course. Students can request between 9 (minimum) and 48 (maximum) credits to be awarded as credit for prior learning. Upon successful completion of the PLA course, the credit earned will be confirmed.
How does it work?
In the first online BSOLL core course, LEAD 300/307 Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), students evaluate and document their learning from work experiences, existing course credits and associate degrees, technical and specialized training to receive credit for the chosen specialization.
Students create and submit a prior learning assessment portfolio, then proceed to the remaining courses in the designated track to fulfill graduation requirements.
The portfolio includes:
- Workplace narrative autobiography
- Documentation and written reflection on workplace training
- Documentation and written reflection on occupational experiential learning
- Worksheet tracking hours/time dedicated to specialized learning or other knowledge, skills and competencies
- Narrative alignment of prior learning with O*Net job classification language
- Step-by-step faculty guidance on the completion process and successful submission of the portfolio
Less redundancy. More momentum. Now it’s your turn to get some credit - Get started today!
Online BSOLL: One degree, nine pathways to leadership
The Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and Learning online program at UofL features nine tracks to help you specialize your degree in areas such as leadership, project management, workforce development and talent management, workplace opportunities, human resources or early childhood education.
I’ve been passed over for promotions because I didn’t have a degree. I realized that it is applicable to everything I do and everything I’ve been doing for 30 years.
- Jennifer Morgan -
Online BSOLL graduate
Leadership, Training & Organization Development
This flagship track is designed for business professionals who want to gain overall leadership knowledge applicable across a broad range of industries, those who have substantial work experience and some college credit and are seeking a non-specialized undergraduate leadership degree, as well as those who are currently serving or have previously served in the military.
Develop your skills in leadership and ability to improve organizational and employee effectiveness and productivity, workplace learning, work satisfaction, performance, morale and/or quality of work life.
View UofL's Academic Catalog page for all available courses within this track.
Health Care Leadership
The online Health Care Leadership (HCL) track is designed for individuals with 2,000 hours (or approximately one year) of health care experience who are seeking a competitive advantage and the proper credential for development, increased pay or promotions within their organization.
This track features a unique set of health care leadership courses, different from the BSOLL core, tailored to expand students’ skill set for career advancement within a wide range of health care settings. It will enrich the capabilities to lead and manage organizational change adeptly and improve performance metrics.
The curriculum is based on the National Center for Health Care Leadership (NCHL) standards and is designed for those with or without a clinical background. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to earn micro-credentials from industry partners including LinkedIn, The Institute for Health Care Improvement and more. These are included in various courses at no additional cost.
Students applying to this track will need to submit a resume as part of their application.
Students must demonstrate competency by passing each class with a C- or better. A minimum 2.25 cumulative grade point average is required to complete a Health Care Leadership specialized track.
View UofL's Academic Catalog page for all available courses within this track.
Project Management for the Modern Workforce
This track is designed for business professionals who want well-rounded skills in managing a multitude of projects in any industry and those who seek a pathway to a project management role or career.
This track goes beyond traditional project management knowledge, providing students with the opportunity to expand their expertise and successfully respond to organizational change in areas of technology, logistics and personnel management, effective communication, data analysis and efficiently built structures.
Upon successful completion of this program, students will be prepared to pursue the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) or the Project Management Certification (PMP).
View UofL's Academic Catalog page for all available courses within this track.
Digital Leadership/IT
This track is for business professionals who seek to develop their leadership skills as well as their knowledge of Information Technologies (IT). The curriculum focuses on organizational and employee effectiveness, work morale and more, while also providing broad-based technology implementation knowledge.
Gain expertise to effectively lead employees in the rapidly changing fields and industries that technology impacts.
UofL has partnered with several tech companies including IBM, Google, Microsoft and Adobe to provide the opportunity to earn valuable technology micro-credentials at no additional cost. Faculty and staff work with individual students to determine which micro-credentials are the best fit for their experience and career path.
The Digital Leadership/IT track requires an applied leadership project, which can be completed within your workplace.
View UofL's Academic Catalog page for all available courses within this track.
Climate, Equity and Opportunity in the Workplace
This track is designed for working professionals across all industries, seeking to pioneer and efficiently implement better opportunities, climate, efficiencies and community engagement efforts in the workplace. The innovative curriculum is beneficial for those wanting to start or advance their career in leadership, HR, talent acquisition/recruitment and climate opportunity positions.
This track is also relevant for anyone who wants to be an agent of change for injustice and inequity in the workplace or for better opportunities, efficiencies and engagement in the community.
View UofL's Academic Catalog page for all available courses within this track.
Human Resource Development
This track is specifically designed for business professionals who want to start or advance their career in the Human Resource field.
Our courses help you develop fundamental knowledge of Human Resources as well as the analytical and strategic skills necessary for the modern HR role, focusing on coaching and talent management, mediating conflict, data analytics needed to understand human dynamics in the organizational environment, employee satisfaction and more.
Successful completion of this program will help prepare graduates for the Certified Professional Human Resources (PHR) exam.
View UofL's Academic Catalog page for all available courses within this track.
Counseling and Human Relations
Great leadership can move an organization from adequate to exceptional. The Counseling and Human Relations (CHR) track provides opportunities to learn from world-renowned faculty who assist students with honing their natural skills and talents.
In this track, you can become a well-rounded leader by developing foundational knowledge of mental health needs, methodologies and techniques for support within culturally diverse populations as applicable to leadership and management roles. You can acquire interpersonal skills to tactfully resolve conflict, negotiate solutions, build relationships and healthy workload support systems, which culminate in authentic leadership.
Graduates can advance professionally and further their education by pursuing a master’s program in Counseling, Human Resources, Social Work or other related disciplines.
View UofL's Academic Catalog page for all available courses within this track.
Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education
This track prepares you to help at-risk learners in low-income or impoverished communities by developing core pedagogical knowledge and communication skills—allowing you to more effectively work with children as well as their families or caretakers.
You can gain a well-rounded interdisciplinary early childhood education expertise and learn to apply practical knowledge through the program’s commitment to three strategic pillars (Play, Practice, Policy).
View UofL's Academic Catalog page for all available courses within this track.
Career & Technical Education
This track is designed specifically for occupation-based career and technical education instructors in Kentucky technical centers or secondary schools who want to pursue a change in rank. Courses focus on teaching career and technical education, evaluation, instruction and classroom management skills. Graduates receive a Rank I from the Kentucky Educational Professional Standards Board by completing the CA-1 form.
Qualifying individuals have been accepted to the New Teacher Institute program through the Kentucky Department of Education Office of Career and Technical Education.
The BSOLL Career and Technical Education Grades 5-12 Rank Change program requires completion of the NTI induction program, as well as up to 24 hours of the degree core courses, for a total of 120 hours with an overall grade point average of 2.25 and a grade point average of 2.5 and a C grade or better earned in all major courses. If you have any questions, you can contact Mary Stratton at mary.stratton@louisville.edu.
If you are interested in learning more about occupation-based teacher certification through the New Teacher Institute, please contact:
Chris Smith
KY Department of Education
Phone: 502-564-4286 extension 4204
Email: chris.smith@education.ky.gov
View UofL's Academic Catalog page for all available courses within this track.
Ready to choose your leadership path? We’re ready to help you get started!
How to apply to UofL’s Online BSOLL degree
Check out the typical application deadlines for the Organizational Leadership and Learning degree program at UofL and prepare your application packet according to the requirements outlined below.
Application Deadlines
| Preferred Deadline | Term | Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| August 1 | Fall I | August |
| October 1 | Fall II | October |
| December 1 | Spring I | January |
| February 1 | Spring II | Late February |
| May 1 | Summer | May |
Note: We admit students on a rolling basis. The preferred deadlines help you complete the application process on time, be notified of acceptance and enroll before the term begins. We review applications as they become complete and admit students for a specific term up to the day classes start. We recommend you work on and submit your complete application well in advance of the preferred deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time.
What Are the Steps to Apply to the Online BSOLL Program?
- Start your application for undergraduate admission
- Submit $30 non-refundable application fee
- Verify your identity - provide ID/documentation as requested
- Complete any checklist items listed on your Application Portal*
- Request official transcripts from all previously attended institutions. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: adetran@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Office of Admissions, Dept AO, Louisville, KY 40292.
- Create a financial plan
What Is required for admission to the Online BSOLL?
New students and transfer students with less than 24 transferable credits from accredited institutions must have:
- High school diploma from an accredited institution (GED or equivalent accepted by petition)
- Minimum high school GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
- Composite ACT score of 21 or higher (test optional admission is granted on a case-by-case basis)
- Minimum of 2,000 hours (approximately one year total) of work experience
- A resume demonstrating one year of health care experience is a required material for Health Care Leadership track
- A resume demonstrating one year of health care experience is a required material for Health Care Leadership track
Transfer Students with 24 or more transferable credits from accredited institutions must have:
- Minimum GPA of 2.25 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
- Minimum of 2,000 hours (approximately one year total) of work experience
- A resume demonstrating one year of health care experience is a required material for Health Care Leadership track.
*Your Application Portal:
Once you have started an undergraduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.
Career and technical education track requirements
The Career and Technical Education track within the BS OLL program is designed for Kentucky certified teachers in Career and Technical Education to earn their Rank I certification. Applicants must meet the requirements for professional license.
Start working on your application early and contact us anytime if you have questions or need further guidance.
How much does it cost to earn an Online BSOLL at UofL?
Academic Year Tuition
$559 per credit hour
$250 per credit hour active-duty tuition rate
Please note that other fees apply – check our tuition page for all applicable costs.
This program is a Title IV federal financial aid eligible program. Tuition rate does not include costs associated with a specific course or program, such as textbooks.
Tuition, fees and charges are subject to change and effective on the date enacted. For additional information on educational expenses and the cost of attendance, please visit the Student Financial Aid Office website.
Free tuition for ULH employees!
Contact your education liaison or HR representative to receive information about tuition remission options.
Does your employer offer tuition reimbursement?
It’s a good idea to check your company policy regarding tuition benefits. You may be required to submit a request for tuition reimbursement.
What will you learn in the Online BSOLL?
The online BSOLL is a 120 credit-hour program delivered asynchronously in 8-week terms.
General Education requirements (Cardinal Core) may be delivered in 8-week or standard term lengths.
Curriculum components:
- Cardinal Core requirements – transferred credits or completed at UofL (31 credit hours)
- OLL Program Core Courses (24-29 credit hours)
- Work Specialization/CPL Award (up to 48 credit hours)
- Track Courses (12-15 credit hours)
- Elective Courses (5-44 credit hours)
Chose one of the nine tracks available to specialize your education and create a career pathway aligned with your goals.
To see all available online courses and degree completion requirements, please visit UofL's Academic Catalog page (select Degree Requirements tab).
View Course Requirements
Ready to start working on your bachelor's degree completion goal? We are here to help!
What will you do with a Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership and Learning?
UofL’s online BSOLL is a worthwhile investment, especially in today’s job market and economy. It is designed to be a fast and affordable option for completing your bachelor's, with Credit for Prior Learning allowing you to earn tuition-free college credit towards your degree, from your work experience. You will learn the skills needed to position yourself for a multitude of career advancement opportunities.
Our BSOLL graduates are employed in a variety of roles in leadership, training and development, human resources and workforce development including:
- Director of Training and Marketing
- Manager of Training and Team Development
- Senior Business Solutions Consultant
- VP of Human Resources
- VP of Operations
- Senior Process Improvement Manager
- Assistant Director
- Chief Executive Officer
- Chief IT Officer
- HR Specialist, Education Manager
- Senior IT Systems Analyst
- District Sales Manager
- Senior VP and General Manager
- Technical Trainer
- Supervisor, Vocational Rehab Counselor
- Diversity and Inclusion Manager
… and more!
Companies and organizations where you can find our BSOLL alumni include Brown-Forman, UPS, Humana, YUM! Brands, United States Army, UofL Health, Mercer, Mitchel International, CHI St. Joseph Health, Harrah’s, Farm Credit Mid-America, ADP, Medtronic, Cigna, United States Soccer, Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and more.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree are projected to grow by 6% between 2024 and 2034, with bachelor’s degree holders earning, on average, 46% more than those with only an associate degree. With more than 300,000 job openings each year seeking candidates with a bachelor’s degree, there’s no better time to start or finish your degree.
"While I was working in a training role during my time at UofL, the skills I learned and applied at work allowed me to advance to a higher instructional design role within a year of my graduation date."
Brittany Geisenburg
BSOLL Graduate
Take the step today to advance your education and be ready for the workforce of tomorrow!
What will your support network look like?
From application through graduation, BSOLL students are backed by a knowledgeable team that understands the demands of working professionals. Enrollment counselors, academic advisors, program leadership staff and faculty collaborate to provide clear guidance, timely support and practical insight so you can stay focused, confident and on track throughout your degree.
| Name | Title | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Jennifer Ferguson | Online Enrollment Counselor | online@louisville.edu | 800.871.8635 |
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Jennifer Huff, MA | Academic Advisor | jennifer.huff@louisville.edu | 502.852.2547 |
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Randy Whetstone | Program Director (BS OLL) | randy.whetstone@louisville.edu | 502.852.0635 |
Featured Faculty
| Name | Title |
|---|---|
| Matt Bergman, Ph.D. | Assistant Professor |
| Roger Buskill | Professor |
| Deborah Dalzell-Murphy, Ph.D. | Clinical Assistant Professor |
| Mark Leach, Ph.D. | Dept Chair and Professor, Counseling and Human Development |
| Ann Herd, Ph. D. | Professor |
| Thomas Teague, Ph. D. | Professor |
Whether you need more info or are ready to apply and need further guidance, reach out to us – we are here for you!
What else should you know?
The questions and answers below help you learn more about our program, delivery method, application and admission process, financial aid options and how to succeed as an online student at UofL and beyond.
What is an Organizational Leadership and Learning degree?
An organizational leadership degree is an interdisciplinary program that equips students with knowledge and skills to lead projects, teams and organizations effectively. The curriculum provides a blend of strategic knowledge in areas like:
- Leadership theory and development
- Organizational behavior
- Project management
- Human resources
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Business acumen
- Data analytics
- Climate, equity and opportunity in the workplace
Our organizational leadership degree takes a holistic approach to management education, applicable across industries and organization types. The program and its tracks are designed to cultivate strategic thinkers and agile leaders prepared for diverse real-world challenges.
Who should apply for the Online BSOLL program?
The online Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and Learning is well-suited for:
- Working professionals seeking to advance into leadership and management roles or further their current careers
- Members of the military pursuing leadership development or transitioning to civilian roles
- Individuals with some college credit but no bachelor's degree who seek to complete their undergraduate education
- Career-changers interested in versatile training applicable across many industries
- Those interested in human resources, project management, organizational development and related fields
- Students looking for an affordable, flexible way to earn their degree 100% online
The broad-based curriculum is designed to serve diverse students with varying levels of work experience interested in gaining leadership competencies.
How long are the courses?
All courses, with the exception of LEAD 540, are offered in an 8-week format.
Can I enroll in the program if I still have General Education courses to complete?
Yes, as long as you have been admitted to the College of Education & Human Development and to the organizational leadership and learning degree program. Your academic advisor will work with you to identify the necessary courses and options to fulfill requirements.
Is there a GPA requirement for admission?
Yes, you must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) to be considered for admission to the program unconditionally. If you do not have a 2.25 GPA, you can be accepted provisionally. The Admissions Committee will assess applications on a case-by-case basis, carefully considering all qualifications.
Is the BSOLL degree program affordable?
Yes. This program is most suitable for experienced professionals who have accumulated field expertise but have not completed their degree. UofL’s BSOLL program features a Credit for Prior Learning course that awards up to 48 credit hours (tuition-free!) for work/job-related learning and experience that aligns with the competencies taught across our curriculum. You will spend less time on knowledge you have and more time on new information and skills you need. Having some previously earned college credits, an associate degree or equivalent, can further reduce the time and resources you invest in earning your bachelor’s at UofL.
Will I pay UofL tuition for the credits I am awarded for my work experience, prior learning and/or military/industry training?
No, you will earn those credits free of charge upon successfully completing the LEAD 300 Prior Learning Assessment course (which is a 3-credit hour class at standard tuition cost) and submitting a completed portfolio that documents and validates your work experience, military training or other prior learning. You will then be credited (upon committee decision), at no cost, according with your credit request, up to 48 credit hours toward the degree.
Are there benefits for active-duty service members?
Yes, UofL is a military-friendly® institution and offers a special tuition rate of $250/credit hour for students enrolled in the BSOLL program. Military training and work experience can translate to credit for prior learning when successfully completing the prior learning assessment (PLA) course. You can earn up to 48 credit hours (up to 16 courses) and shorten your time to graduation.
Is the major track mandatory?
Yes. One of the requirements for graduation is satisfactory completion of the courses within the major track. Admitted students will receive a program sheet that outlines academic and exit requirements.
Is there a part-time option?
Yes, you can complete this program as a part-time student.
Is this program suitable for me as an out-of-state student?
Yes, this program is applicable and available to students in other states. There are no campus requirements. The online learning platform used to deliver the course helps connect you with your peers and professors, just as you would be on campus.
I’m a KCTCS student, is there a transfer pathway for me?
Check out the transfer pathways available from our KCTCS Transfer Page for more information.
How do I learn more about the digital badges offered in the program?
Each class instructor for digital badge selected courses will provide further detail and select the digital badge(s) that aligns best to each course in the syllabi. Students will have opportunities to earn digital badges in some of the BSOLL courses from technology vendors including IBM, Google, Microsoft, AWS and more.
Upon completion of the Organizational Leadership and Learning degree, can I pursue my master’s in another field?
Yes. Graduates of the BSOLL degree continue their education with a master’s degree in human resources and organization development, communications, business and many other fields. The graduate program you are seeking will be the determining factor due to varied requirements.
Where is the online Organizational Leadership and Learning program located in Kentucky?
While the Online BSOLL Program is 100% online, the College of Education & Human Development is located in beautiful Louisville, Kentucky, where southern charm meets urban innovation, creating a vibrant tapestry of cultures, culinary delights and friendly faces that beckon you to explore.
All online BSOLL students are welcome to visit our wonderful campus at any time to meet with faculty, admissions team, career services, etc. and to participate in the university-wide commencement ceremony.
Still have questions? Contact our team today to get more information!
