Human and Organizational Leadership & Learning
REVOLUTIONIZE
LEADERSHIP.
REDEFINE
SUCCESS.
Ready to Lead Transformative Change?
Earn an advanced degree in Human & Organizational Learning + Leadership
At the George Washington University, we believe leadership isn’t just about managing organizations—it’s about transforming them. In today’s rapidly evolving business world, effective leaders must go beyond traditional management to inspire teams, foster continuous learning, and drive meaningful change.
Our graduate programs explore the critical connections between people, organizations, and learning. Through cutting-edge research, collaboration with industry experts, and hands-on experiences, you'll develop the skills to assess performance, design strategic initiatives, and implement impactful solutions.
Whether you're an experienced leader refining your approach or an emerging professional ready to step forward, our programs provide the knowledge, tools, and community to support your growth. Led by expert faculty, you’ll engage in a dynamic learning environment that blends theory, research, and practice—preparing you to lead with confidence and vision.
Get the Inside Scoop
Complete the form below to learn more about degree requirements, course descriptions, tuition, and more.
Explore Our HOL Programs to Find the One that Matches Your Career Goals
- Master's in Organizational Leadership & Learning
Grounded in leadership, learning, and change, the program blends cutting-edge research with hands-on experiences to develop strategic decision-making, problem-solving, and collaborative leadership abilities. Through a skills-based curriculum, students learn to lead individuals, teams, and organizations—maximizing performance, fostering growth, and inspiring success in today’s dynamic workplace.
- Online or On-Campus (Foggy Bottom)
- 30 credits
- Doctorate (EdD) in Human & Organizational Learning
The EdD program prepares scholar-leaders to drive strategic change through a deep understanding of organizational dynamics, transformational leadership, and individual and group learning processes. With an interdisciplinary approach, the program equips students with the critical thinking, research, and practical skills needed to address complex challenges and implement sustainable change initiatives.
- Hybrid Executive Format: Includes three required in-person, on-campus residencies and synchronous online Saturday classes. Other synchronous and asynchronous activities may be assigned as per each class syllabus.
- 60 credits
- Leadership Development Graduate Certificate
Gain skills in instructional design, group processes, adult learning, organizational diagnosis, and consulting strategies. Designed for working professionals, students apply new skills in both real-world settings and the classroom.
- On-Campus (Foggy Bottom)
- 15 credits, which can be applied toward the 30-credit master’s degree
- Organizational Learning & Change Graduate Certificate
Learn the practical skills needed to assess organizational performance and lead effective change initiatives. Explore how a learning-focused approach enhances organizational improvement and drives sustainable change.
- On-Campus (Foggy Bottom)
- 12 credits, which can be applied toward the 30-credit master’s degree
The HOL program has been transformative, challenging me academically, professionally, and personally. Through deep connections with faculty, my cohort, and the coursework, I’ve honed my research passion, grown as an individual, and applied theories in practice to become a well-rounded professional. This academic journey has shaped who I am today, filled with growth, resilience, and unforgettable memories.
- Mariam Martinez, EdD in HOL
the gw advantage
Gain a Multidisciplinary Approach
GSEHD challenges you to expand your understanding of how to lead by examining it from the vantage point of several disciplines. Our cross-disciplinary approach blends theory, practice, and research, often facilitating creative, results-oriented breakthroughs.
Join A Dynamic Network with Diverse Perspectives
Engage in a collective learning environment that draws upon real-world experiences shared by classmates with a broad range of professional backgrounds and faculty with hands-on experience and unique insights into leading organizations.
Access Washington, D.C. & Unparalleled Opportunity
Take advantage of our unique location in the heart of our nation’s capital, with access to research, internship, and employment opportunities with prestigious private and government organizations.
New: Save 20% with Federal Service Scholarship
If you are a current U.S. federal civilian employee or a federal employee/contractor affected by the 2025 federal workforce reductions, you may be eligible for GSEHD's Federal Service Scholarship, which provides a 20% tuition discount.
- Eligible programs: Master's in Organizational Leadership & Learning (on-campus program only), EdD in Human and Organizational Learning
- Deadline: Apply for Fall 2025 enrollment by June 1
- Additional limitations may apply
The HOL program has been transformative, challenging me academically, professionally, and personally. Through deep connections with faculty, my cohort, and the coursework, I’ve honed my research passion, grown as an individual, and applied theories in practice to become a well-rounded professional. This academic journey has shaped who I am today, filled with growth, resilience, and unforgettable memories.
- Mariam Martinez, EdD in HOL
GRE is Not Required
The GSEHD Admissions team completes a wholistic review, considering extracurricular activities, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
No Application Fee
There’s no risk to applying to GSEHD, only reward! So what are you waiting for? Apply today!
Funding Available
Explore opportunities for GW, GSEHD, and external scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options.
CAREER OUTCOMES
Advancement, Opportunity, Direction
As you enhance your expertise, you’ll gain the ability to increase your earning potential, advance in your career, and drive meaningful change within your organization—impacting both its people and culture— while finding greater value and meaning in your own career. Graduates of our programs pursue leadership careers in a variety of roles, including:
- Chief Learning Officer
- Corporate Recruiting
- Human Resources
- Management Consulting & Analysis
- Leadership Coaching & Development
- Talent Management
- Training
- Organizational Development
- Performance Improvement
- Strategic Change & Planning
