As Program Director of the Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership (MAOL) at The College of Idaho, I often speak with professionals who are seeking more than just a graduate degree. They're looking for a program that is practical, flexible, affordable, and—most importantly—relevant to their career goals.
We’ve built our MAOL program to deliver just that.
In a sea of one-size-fits-all graduate programs, ours stands apart—and here’s how:
Two Distinct Pathways to Your Master’s Degree
We understand that no two students are the same. That’s why we offer two tailored paths to earning your MAOL degree:
1. Accelerated Online Program
Our fully online, flexible option allows students to complete their degree in less than 12 months—without sacrificing the quality of instruction or faculty engagement. Whether you’re working full-time or balancing other commitments, this pathway is designed to work with your life.
2. The “3+1” Advantage for Undergraduates
This innovative option allows current College of Idaho seniors to start graduate-level coursework in their final undergraduate year. By completing their MAOL the summer after graduation, students gain a master’s degree in just one additional year—often at less than half the cost of a traditional program.
Even better: students use their existing financial aid, and no additional tuition is charged for those graduate credits taken as an undergrad.
A Curriculum Built for Today’s Workforce
While theory lays the foundation, practical application is where real leadership is formed. Our courses focus on developing the real-world skills leaders need to thrive in dynamic and diverse work environments, including:
- Organizational behavior and job design
- Conflict resolution and negotiation strategies
- Building and leading high-performing teams—both in-person and remotely
Each course includes project-based learning that builds a professional portfolio you can immediately apply in your workplace or showcase to future employers.
Small Classes, Big Impact: The Liberal Arts Advantage
At The College of Idaho, we emphasize personalized education. Small class sizes foster deep engagement, active discussion, and one-on-one mentorship from faculty. This tight-knit environment supports collaborative learning and strong connections that last well beyond graduation.
Idaho’s Only MAOL Program
We are proud to be home to the only Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership program in the state of Idaho. That’s not just a milestone—it’s a commitment to our region, and to developing the next generation of ethical, effective, and adaptable leaders across industries.
If you're ready to advance your career with a graduate program that values your time, goals, and growth, I invite you to explore the MAOL at The College of Idaho.
Let’s connect. I’d love to hear your story and help you take the next step.
Questions? Email Dr. Ellestad [email protected]
Learn more about our MAOL program here: https://www.collegeofidaho.edu/academic-programs/graduate/organizational-leadership/maol