Organisational Leadership

This masters-level postgraduate diploma develops you as a leader who can navigate the complexities of 21st century business. The Diploma in Organisational Leadership is designed for high achievers in significant management roles to question assumptions about management practice and build a deeper understanding of how to manage people and organisations for competitive advantage. 

Taught in four modules of four days each and completed in 13 months the Diploma in Organisational Leadership combines the academic rigour expected of a University of Oxford postgraduate-level qualification with a practical approach to the study of strategic management, organisational development and design, and leadership. 

The Diploma in Organisational Leadership offers:

• A postgraduate-level qualification from the University of Oxford which builds on your existing professional development and experience
• A deeper understanding of how to manage people and organisations, and of your own approach to the complexities of strategic management
• Focus on the reality of leadership in hard times such as delivering the hard messages while maintaining motivation, and focusing on essentials
• while watching out for other factors that could affect performance
• Access to top-level teaching from world-leading experts, drawing on Oxford University’s  strengths in leadership and organisational behaviour
• Lifelong association with the university through the business school, university networks and college membership - and a pathway to the Oxford Executive MBA

Led by Professor Sue Dopson and other world-leading faculty in the areas of leadership, organisational behaviour and strategy the Oxford Diploma in Organisational Leadership is a programme with a distinct intellectual edge, designed to embed knowledge but also to question assumptions about management practice.

The programme is based on four modules of teaching in the areas of organisational development, organisational design, strategy and leadership:-

1. Leadership Fundamentals

Leading individuals and groups effectively is the key to organisational excellence.  This module is designed to help you meet these challenges by providing a framework for managing individual and group performance. 
Topics covered:

• Managing change
• Motivation and incentives
• Groups and teams
• Culture
• Managing with power
• Managing complex systems
• Personality and leadership

2. The Strategic Mindset

Strategy is concerned with the long-term success of the organisation as a whole and this module considers both the strategy of individual business units (competitive strategy) and the nature of strategy for the multi-business firm (corporate strategy).
Topics covered:

• Goals and strategies
• Competitive advantage
• Industry analysis
• Strategy and change
• Diversification
• Global strategy
• Managing the multi-business enterprise

3. The Strategic Leader

Module three reflects on the nature of leadership. The approach is analytical; you will study traditional and contemporary theories about leadership and be encouraged to examine your own leadership style, as well as that of others. 
Topics covered:

• Classic approaches to leadership
• Leading through networks and relationships
• Leadership as a psychological construct
• Charisma and influence
• Leadership, legitimacy and reputation
• Individual and organisational decision making

4. Leading Organisational Change

This module builds on the previous three courses by focusing primarily on the challenges of organising and leading effectively to execute strategic goals in different contexts. It is designed to develop your analytical, management and presentation skills. 
Topics covered:

• Organising for entrepreneurship and growth
• Managing knowledge-intensive organisations
• Challenges in managing the multi-business corporation
• Leading the merger process
• Transforming the organisation

5. Business Project Report

The Business Project Report of up to 10,000 words will be based on current or emerging specific strategic, organisational issues taking place within your own organisation or sector. It must be completed within the Diploma study period.

1. Academic ability

We recommend that applicants have a first-class or an upper second class undergraduate degree or equivalent international qualifications (GPA of 3.5). Applicants who do not hold such a qualification may be considered if they have a very strong employment record demonstrating a high degree of responsibility. Professional qualifications may also be taken into consideration.

All applicants are required to supply transcripts of their previous higher education qualifications as part of the online application. A transcript is an official document showing the modules taken and the marks/grades awarded. A certificate of completion is not sufficient. If receiving an offer on the programme, we will ask you to forward us hard copies of your transcripts.

We do not seek a Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT score.

2. English language proficiency

Applicants whose first language is not English may be required to provide evidence of proficiency in English.

• TOEFL iBT 110
• IELTS 7.5

3. Relevant work experience

Applicants normally have a minimum of five years' work experience, this is essential to making the candidate a valuable contributor to the student group and the learning experience of the Diploma.

The University of Oxford offers various funding opportunities for students enrolled in its programs related to Organizational Leadership. As a prestigious institution, Oxford provides a range of scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to support both domestic and international students. These funding sources include full and partial scholarships based on merit, need, or specific criteria related to the applicant's background or research interests. Additionally, students may apply for bursaries or fellowships provided by departmental or university-wide funds to assist with tuition fees and living costs. Students are encouraged to explore external funding options, such as government-sponsored loans, sponsorships from organizations, or international scholarships that complement university offerings. The university’s financial aid office offers comprehensive guidance on application procedures, deadlines, and eligibility requirements. For certain programs, particularly those with a research component, additional funding may be available through research grants, teaching assistantships, or stipends. International students are advised to check specific conditions related to visa regulations and work rights while studying at Oxford. It is essential for applicants to submit a complete financial statement or evidence of funding sources during the application process, especially for international applicants seeking visa sponsorship. Oxford’s commitment to accessible education ensures that eligible students receive support tailored to their circumstances, promoting a rich, diverse academic community. The program's total cost, including tuition, accommodation, and personal expenses, varies, and prospective students should consult the university’s official financial planning resources for detailed estimates. Overall, funding for the Organizational Leadership program is designed to reduce financial barriers and enable talented students to benefit from world-class education at the University of Oxford.

The Organisational Leadership program at the University of Oxford is designed to develop advanced leadership skills and a comprehensive understanding of organizational dynamics in various professional settings. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, enabling participants to lead effectively within complex environments. It covers core areas such as strategic management, change management, decision-making processes, and ethical considerations in leadership. The curriculum emphasizes leadership theories, interpersonal skills, and innovative approaches to problem-solving. Participants engage in case studies, simulations, and peer discussions to enhance their strategic thinking and collaborative abilities. The program is suitable for experienced professionals seeking to refine their leadership capabilities, executives aiming for higher managerial roles, and those interested in organizational development. Delivered through a combination of online modules and in-person sessions, the program offers flexibility for working individuals. Faculty members are renowned experts in organizational psychology, management, and leadership studies, providing insights grounded in research and practical experience. The Oxford Organisational Leadership program also encourages networking among global professionals, fostering a diverse learning environment. Upon completion, participants are equipped with leadership tools and insights to influence positive change and drive organizational success. The program duration, admission requirements, and specific coursework may vary, but overall, it aims to prepare leaders who can adapt to fast-changing global markets and technological advancements. Its reputation and association with Oxford's academic excellence make it highly respected in the field of leadership development.