What defines a good leader? Why do certain individuals rise to the top? What makes others follow that individual? These are questions answered by leadership psychologists, who study the science of leadership. Leadership can be defined as the behavior, interaction, and traits of supervisors of others, or individuals that have a vision, and organize others to make that vision a reality. There are many types of leadership styles, including bureaucratic, charismatic, democratic, and people-oriented. Leadership is such a pervasive undercurrent in society. It is required in nearly all social situations. Companies, governments, and non-profits alike demand experts who can interpret situations to improve the leadership quotient.

Master’s programs in leadership instruct the psychological principles and theories of leadership development. These programs are approximately 60 quarter credit hours and can take up to 1.5 years to complete. The curriculum prepares graduates to improve the leadership, professionalism, initiative, and integrity of the organization. Topics explored include Organizational and Leadership Psychology principles and practices in such areas as leadership, organizational change and organizational consulting. Graduates seek employment as independent consultants, helping organizations achieve their organizational and leadership goals. Other graduates become human resource developers, professors, or authors.

Online Masters Degree in Psychology Guide

MS in Psychology MS in Clinical Psychology MS in Counseling Psychology MS in School Psychology	Capella University – Capella University offers several advanced online degree programs in Psychology, including: MS in Psychology, MS in Clinical Psychology, MS in Counseling Psychology and MS in School Psychology. Skilled professionals with clinical experience teach the curriculum. Students will also develop critical thinking skills necessary to help understand and apply key psychological principles in diverse work settings.
MS in Psychology MS in Media Psychology MS in Social Psychology	Walden University – Walden University offers many online masters degree programs in Psychology, including: MS in Psychology, MS in Media Psychology, and MS in Social Psychology. Students will study current theories and research associated with dysfunctional behavior that can be applied in a range of settings including healthcare, education, government and business environments.
MS in Psychology MS in Addictions Psychology MS in Behavioral Psychology MS in Organizational Psychology	Kaplan University – Kaplan University offers several graduate-level online degree programs in Psychology, including: MS in Psychology, MS in Addictions Psychology, MS in Behavioral Psychology and MS in Organizational Psychology. Each course includes clearly set goals, so that students know what is expected of them and class sizes are limited, allowing students to receive the personal attention that they desire. The program prepares students for employment in he field of psychology and in postsecondary education.
MA in Psychology MA in Gender Studies Psych. MA in Health Psychology MA in I/O Psychology	Northcentral University – Northcentral University offers several advanced online degree programs in Psychology, including: MA in Psychology, MA in Gender Studies Psychology, MA in Health Psychology and MA in I/O Psychology. Students can choose from a wide variety of different degree options, virtually guaranteeing each the chance to succeed in the specialty that truly appeals to him/her. Administrators and mentors work directly with students throughout the program.
MS in Behavior Analysis	Saint Joseph's University – As a leader in the higher education industry, Saint Joseph's University has maintained its place on the cutting edge of new shifts and advances in online learning. In response to increased demand for online programs, SJU has added an online course for MS in Behavior Analysis to its course catalog. This program qualifies its graduates to take the licensure exam to become a board-certified behavior analyst.
MS in Psychology MS in I/O Psychology	Grand Canyon University – Grand Canyon University offers both MS in Psychology and MS in I/O Psychology online degrees. The programs are designed for individuals who desire promotion and/or continued academic exposure in the field of psychology. With a focus on the development of critical thinking and leadership qualities, courses include: Human Development, Learning, Cognition, and Motivation, and Contemporary and Ethical Issues in Psychology.
MS in Forensic Psychology	University of Liverpool – The University of Liverpool offers an online MS degree in Forensic Psychology. Liverpool is one of the leading Psychology departments in the UK. Over 3,500 graduates from more than 130 countries have participated in the online program. Cutting edge research and contributions from leading academics and practitioners in the field creates a rich and highly stimulating experience for students.