Organization Learning AND Development

Douglas Warring, Ph.D. , Department Chair                                                                              Lucy Payne, Ph.D., Associate Chair
Liz Knight, Department Assistant

MOH 217
1000 La Salle Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55403-2009
Phone: (651) 962-4459
(800) 328-6819, Ext. 2-4980
Fax: (651) 962-4169
E-mail: soe_old@stthomas.edu

The Department of Organization Learning and Development offers graduate programs for human resource and other professionals dedicated to improving learning, managing change and developing career systems within organizations. These programs are intended for individuals interested in helping individuals, teams and organizations, according to the department?s mission:

1. To enrich the potential of individuals for improving learning within organizations
2. To promote a learning community through collaborations and consultancies within our university and our local, regional and international environments.

The department offers a Doctorate in Organization Development, a Master of Arts in Human Resource and Change Leadership as well as graduate-level certificates in career development, human resource management and organization development. Students may choose to pursue a master of arts degree, a certificate or both.

Taught by professionals working in their fields, the focus of these programs is on practice, based on theory and research. The Department of Organization Learning and Development connects students with a learning community composed of professionals from St. Thomas, practitioners from the field, alumni and regional, national, and international organizations. Courses are offered evenings and weekends on the St. Thomas campus in Minneapolis. Programs also are offered off campus as needs for these programs arise.

In today's fluid, fast-paced climate of change, organizations know their success depends on their ability to continually adapt to new conditions. Because organizations are constantly transforming themselves, the need for skilled professionals in the field of human resource development offers unprecedented opportunities for professionals interested in enhancing learning in individuals, teams, and organizations. The Department of Organization Learning and Development keeps the needs of working adult students at its center. It is the only program in Minnesota accredited by the Organization Development Institute. Students are at the forefront in this program:

• Adult learning and educational principles guide the instructional process.
• Students are encouraged, in cooperation with their adviser and based on their career plans, to custom-design their own programs.
• Students move toward their degree at their own pace or with a cohort (doctoral program).
• Courses are timed to accommodate the schedules of working professionals.
• Coursework includes both classroom and virtual components to help students balance work life priorities.