Organizational Leadership Degree Update
SNU's newly approved 90-credit bachelor's degree
We are excited to share some wonderful news! Southern Nazarene University has received approval from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) to offer a reduced-credit-hour Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership. This approval is effective immediately and represents an important milestone for SNU and our commitment to serving students.
This development reflects the ongoing commitment to making higher education accessible, relevant, and responsive to the needs of working adults. This revised degree format offers a more focused path to graduation while preserving the academic expectations, learning outcomes, and General Education requirements central to an SNU education.
What's Changing?
We recognize that this announcement may raise questions, especially for students currently working toward their OL degrees. You may be wondering whether you can switch to the new format, how this change might affect your graduation timeline, or whether your completed coursework will still count.
The good news is that your progress toward your degree remains important, and we want to help you make an informed decision about your path forward. The impact of this change will vary depending on where you are in the program, what coursework you've completed, and your anticipated graduation date.
We are grateful to offer this enhanced pathway to students pursuing a degree in organizational leadership. This milestone reflects SNU’s commitment to serving adult Learners with an academically strong, mission-centered education that recognizes the many responsibilities they carry while pursuing their educational goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Possibly. Eligibility to switch will depend on your completed coursework. Students who are early in the program may have more flexibility to transition, while students who are close to graduation may benefit from continuing under their existing degree plan.
If you are nearing completion and remain on track to graduate during this period, the new program is not expected to affect your current graduation plans. You can continue working towards completing your existing degree requirements. If you have questions about your remaining requirements or anticipated graduation date, email pgsadvisor@snu.edu to help confirm your plan.
Your completed coursework remains an important part of your academic progress. If you are considering switching to the reduced-credit format, an advisor will need to review your transcript and determine how your completed coursework applies to the revised degree requirements. Please do not assume that a change in program format is necessary or beneficial without first reviewing your individual circumstances.
No. The reduced-credit format is intended to create a more focused curriculum, not a less rigorous degree. The program's learning outcomes, academic expectations, and general education requirements will remain the same.
The revised program reduces elective requirements by 30 credit hours. The revised program retains existing General Education requirements, Organizational Leadership major requirements, and three elective credit hours to complete the degree.
Prior learning assessment plan opportunities will continue to be available, subject to applicable policies and limitations. However, some types of prior learning credit available in the 120-credit programs, including Professional and Technical Training credits, will not apply to the reduced-credit-hour program. The advising team can help you understand which options apply to your individual degree plan.
Start by emailing pgsadvisor@snu.edu. The advising team can review your academic progress, explain how your completed coursework applies to the revised curriculum, and help you compare your options. This review will help you determine whether switching is appropriate for your circumstances and graduation goals.
Your Progress Matters
Every student's academic journey is different. Whether transitioning to the new 90-credit format is right for you depends on your completed coursework, remaining requirements, and anticipated graduation date.
Before making changes to your degree plan, connect with your academic advisor to review your options.