Finding affordable online Master’s of Educational Leadership and Administration degrees is the top priority for many students looking to advance their career in the education field, both at the administrative level and in the classroom. Pursuing an online Master’s in Educational Leadership and Administration opens the door to many new career opportunities, and distance learners can continue to work as they further their education. Many graduates of online educational leadership master’s degrees seek employment as principles of secondary, middle, or elementary schools, where they oversee teachers, work with curriculum developers to coordinate curricula, and improve the learning environment and safety of young learners.
In addition to increasing your ability to shape a district or school, a graduate degree can significantly improve your earning potential. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that principles earned a median salary of nearly $95,000 per year. To learn more, check out the following list of the top 25 most affordable online master’s degrees in educational leadership and administration that can get you started on this challenging yet exciting career path.
Methodology
Our ranking of the top 25 most affordable online Master’s of Educational Leadership and administration degrees was compiled in order to help graduate students compare programs and schools that meet their academic and professional needs. Although most of the schools listed below offer programs that can be completed entirely online, some may be offered in a blended or hybrid format that requires students to meet face-to-face for coursework, residencies, or orientations. In order to find the top 25 schools, we consulted U.S. News & World Report conducted a search for the term Master’s of Educational Leadership and Administration degree using the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) website. We then cross-referenced data with each school’s website and narrowed down our search results from more than 300 schools into the top 25 programs based on criteria such as student-to-faculty ratios and tuition.
Average Cost of Attendance
When comparing schools and degree programs, most students immediately take tuition into consideration before they even look at what the program has to offer. Since tuition rates are so highly regarded among prospective students, we felt it necessary to include this information in our ranking. When considering colleges and universities you are thinking of attending for your master’s degree in educational leadership and administration, keep in mind that cost is not necessarily indicative of quality. Although we provided each school’s in-state and out-of-state tuition for your reference, we used only the in-state cost of attendance and awarded points based on the table below.
Points:
Under $20,000: 3 points
$20,001 to $30,000: 2 points
$30,001 or more: 1 point
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
Schools with large student bodies and class sizes may offer students more opportunities for extracurricular activities, specializations, concentrations, and networking. However, schools with smaller student bodies and class sizes may offer students more opportunities for close relationships with peers and faculty, individualized studies, mentoring, and one-on-one sessions in a particular area of interest. For the purpose of this ranking, schools that reported the smallest class sizes earned the most points, while those with class sizes of more than 15 students earned the fewest points.
Points:
10:1 or lower: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Higher than 15:1: 1 point
Ranking Top 25 Online Master’s of Educational Leadership and Administration Degrees
25. Northeastern University
Boston, Massachusetts
Points: 4
Program Website
The Master of Higher Education in Higher Education Administration at Northeastern University is designed to provide working professionals with the foundation to understand the operation, governance, and structure of various higher education organizations. Students complete required courses that investigate the landscape of higher education, the demographics of higher education, and competencies, assessment, and learning analytics. The program culminates in a capstone course, and students can pursue their degree entirely online. Graduates finish the program within two years and are prepared for leadership roles within all areas of higher education, including consulting, marketing, financial aid, alumni relations, student affairs, and accreditation agencies.
Degree Options:
Master of Education in Higher Education Administration-Online
In-State Tuition: $27,315
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,315
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
24. Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New Hampshire
Points: 4
Program Website
The online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in education leadership at Southern New Hampshire University allows students to acquire leadership skills that they can apply in administrative roles or in the classroom. Designed for select K-12 professionals working in the area of curriculum and instruction and certified teachers, the program includes 11 classes, three of which focus on leadership. Students complete 36 credits of study in areas such as leading educational organizations, leadership in teaching and learning, building community through education, and curriculum design. A capstone in curriculum and instruction completes the degree.
Degree Options:
Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction With a Concentration in Education Leadership
In-State Tuition: $22,572
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,572
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
23. Ball State University
Muncie, Indiana
Points: 4
Program Website
Ball State University confers a Master of Arts in Education in Educational Administration and Supervision that is available entirely online. The program is designed to prepare graduate students to earn a P-12 building-level administration and supervision license. Students take 33 credits of required courses as well as three credits of electives. Areas of study include school law, educational finance and ethics, educational decision-making, human resource development, supervision of instruction, and educational leadership. In addition to coursework, students are required to complete a six-credit principal internship that is served at an elementary and a middle or high school. The 36-credit program can be completed in as few as 18 to 20 months.
Degree Options:
Master of Arts in Education in Educational Administration and Supervision
In-State Tuition: $18,720
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,720
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
22. University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, Colorado
Points: 4
Program Website
The University of Northern Colorado confers three degrees, all designed to prepare students for a Colorado Principal (K-12) license. Students may pursue a 27-credit licensure-only program and take courses in professional development and educational leadership. Other options include the Master of Arts in Educational Leadership or the Educational Specialist in Educational Leadership degrees, both of which consist of 30 credits of study. Although both prepare students for licensure, the EdS program is intended for those who already hold a master’s degree. Depending on the path, students may earn their degree within 15 to 20 months. Areas of study include contemporary educational issues, organizational behavior, policy development, leadership roles and responsibilities, and working with external environments.
Degree Options:
Principal (K-12) Licensure
Educational Leadership Master of Arts (MA) Degree
Educational Leadership Educational Specialist (EdS) Degree
In-State Tuition: $17,250
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,250
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
21. University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Points: 4
Program Website
The online Master of Education in Educational Administration and Supervision at the University of Southern Mississippi is available entirely online and consists of 34 credit hours that can be completed in four semesters of full-time study. Students take courses in school leadership, leading diverse school populations, transformational leadership, socio-political issues and educational leadership, advanced instructional leadership, and leadership for organizational effectiveness. An administrative internship is also part of the program requirements. Two to three years of teaching experience is preferred for students applying to the online education administration and supervision degree program.
Degree Options:
Master of Education (MEd) in Educational Administration and Supervision
In-State Tuition: $16,289
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,289
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
20. Northern State University
Aberdeen, South Dakota
Points: 4
Program Website
Northern State University confers an online Master of Science in Education in Leadership and Administration that prepares school service professionals for leadership roles in PK-12 school administration. The 35-credit program is comprised of 12 credits of core courses, 12 credits of supporting core courses, six credits of foundation courses, and a three-credit research option. A two-credit internship, including one credit at the elementary level and one credit at the secondary level, is also required for graduation. Students take specialized courses that foster the development of the scientific and analytic inquiry skills needed by school administrators, including supervision, curriculum development, public relations, and management. Courses also provide the background needed for administrative certification.
Degree Options:
Leadership and Administration (MSED)
In-State Tuition: $15,781
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,781
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
19. California University of Pennsylvania
California, Pennsylvania
Points: 4
Program Website
The California University of Pennsylvania confers three graduate programs in secondary education and administrative leadership. The Master of Education in Educational Leadership provides teachers with different teaching approaches while preparing them for positions in school leadership, and the Master of Education is an administrative program designed for K-12 principals. The master’s degree in advanced studies in secondary education and teacher leadership focuses on preparing school leaders and teachers for the opportunities and challenges posed in both high and middle school. Throughout the programs, graduate students discover the best and latest methodologies for school district leadership, school building administration, or classroom practice. Students also interact with peers and instructors who are experienced in addressing the challenges of modern-day education.
Degree Options:
Educational Leadership Master of Education Degree
Administrative Program for Principals Master of Education Degree
Advanced Studies in Secondary Education and Teacher Leadership Master’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $15,480
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,480
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
18. Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, Texas
Points: 4
Program Website
Offered entirely online, the Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration at Sam Houston State University prepares students for further doctoral studies and for mid-level leadership and administrative positions at higher education institutions. Through the curriculum, students focus on contemporary issues such as resource allocation and information technology, organization and governance of higher education, enrollment management, student success, academic affairs, and student services as well as other administrative functions. Students may complete the 30-credit-hour program with or without a thesis, and they may choose to pursue a certificate in higher education assessment and institutional research or an academic advising certificate.
Degree Options:
Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration
In-State Tuition: $15,015
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,015
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 23:1
17. University of South Dakota
Vermillion, South Dakota
Points: 4
Program Website
The Division of Educational Administration and Leadership at the University of South Dakota offers an online Master of Arts in Educational Administration and Leadership. Graduate students can choose from two concentrations in either PK-12 Principal, which leads to licensure, or Adult and Higher Education. Those following the PK-12 Principal track are required to complete in-person field experiences as well as online classes, while the Adult and Higher Education track is available entirely online. Both programs offer small classes and a flexible schedule for working professionals, and they are designed for higher education classroom instructors and administrators as well as adult educators and school district superintendents.
Degree Options:
Educational Administration and Leadership – Online MA Degree Program
In-State Tuition: $14,428
Out-of-State Tuition: $14,428
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
16. University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, Texas
Points: 4
Program Website
The online Master of Education in Educational Leadership at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is a 30-credit-hour program comprised of seven-week courses that can be completed in 10 months of full-time study. Students can expect courses in areas such as instructional leadership, curriculum leadership, organizational leadership, socio-cultural contexts of education, data management for school improvement, principalship, school community relations, and instructional leadership for diverse learners. Throughout the curriculum, students learn how to effectively advocate and direct for academic excellence and lead positive change in today’s schools. The program places a special emphasis on English language learner populations and students from multicultural backgrounds. Graduate students also gain management experience through field-based practice collaborative strategies and problem solving to shape a nurturing educational culture.
Degree Options:
Master of Education in Educational Leadership Online
In-State Tuition: $13,750
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,750
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
15. Indiana State University
Terre Haute, Indiana
Points: 4
Program Website
Indiana State University offers an online Master of Education in School Administration and Supervision for teaching professionals seeking experience and coursework in supervision and administration in a private or public institution. The program is only available for residents of Indiana, and students must complete 33 credit hours of study. Topics covered include educational administration, educational leadership, and curriculum, instruction, and assessment. A culminating experience in the form of a two-semester internship is also required. It is provided in a blended format using a combination of online courses and on-campus sessions on three Saturdays per semester. Graduate students who take two or three courses per semester may complete the program in a little more than two years of full-time study. Students are prepared for certification or licensure in Indiana.
Degree Options:
School Administration and Supervision (M.Ed.)
In-State Tuition: $13,596
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,391
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
14. Wayne State College
Wayne, Nebraska
Points: 4
Program Website
Wayne State College confers an online master’s degree in school administration that prepares graduates for administrative positions in secondary or elementary school settings such as director, assistant principal, or principal. Course concepts include school organization, supervision and instruction, finances and facilities, school law, administration, and leadership. Students solidify their skills by participating in a practical internship. Students can choose from degrees in school administration at the PK-12, PK-8, and 7-12 levels or choose an optional focus area in athletic administration. The PK-8 and 7-12 degrees consist of 36 hours of study, while the PK-12 degree is comprised of 45 hours of study.
Degree Options:
Online Master’s Degree – School Administration (MSE)
In-State Tuition: $13,005
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,005
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
13. Angelo State University
San Angelo, Texas
Points: 4
Program Website
The College of Graduate Studies and Research at Angelo State University confers a Master of Education in Education Administration that prepares students for careers as administrators in private industries, healthcare, government, corporate America, private and public higher education, and PreK-12 settings. Through the 36-credit-hour online program, students develop deep and broad competencies in areas such as school-community relationships, personnel and fiscal management, structure and organization in the school system, and instructional supervision. Other areas of study include professional writing, research, legal and ethical principles, and social and cultural influences. The program consists of online courses and five eight-week terms per academic year. Networking opportunities are available for interested students.
Degree Options:
Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Education Administration
In-State Tuition: $12,949
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,141
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
12. Stephen F. Austin State University
Nacogdoches, Texas
Points: 4
Program Website
The Department of Secondary Education and Educational Leadership at Stephen F. Austin State University offers a Master of Education in Educational Leadership as well as principal certification for eligible graduates. The program is offered in an online environment and contains a curriculum taught by qualified professors with proven experience in leadership. Taking a scholar-practitioner approach, courses incorporate practice- and theory-based learning that focuses on curriculum development and instructional leadership as well as leadership practices. Other areas of study include school and community leadership, law, special programs, and data-driven decision-making. Internship hours and/or field experiences are included in all coursework.
Degree Options:
Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Principal Certification
In-State Tuition: $11,772
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,772
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
11. University of Texas of the Permian Basin
Odessa, Texas
Points: 4
Program Website
The Master of Arts in Educational Leadership at the University of Texas of the Permian Basin is offered entirely online and includes eight-week courses. Students pursuing the 36-credit degree on a full-time basis can earn their degree in just 12 months. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students explore organizational theory, fiscal responsibility, school law and ethics, conflict resolution, cultural proficiency, and instructional and administrative leadership. A practicum experience in leadership is required, and classes are taught by the same on-campus faculty as the traditional degree program. Graduates are prepared for careers as superintendents, principals, and assistant principals.
Degree Options:
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership Online
In-State Tuition: $11,761
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,761
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 27:1
10. University of North Texas
Denton, Texas
Points: 4
Program Website
The University of North Texas confers an accelerated online Master’s in Educational Leadership degree that emphasizes current research and theory to inform educational leaders as they make decisions about student achievement, effective teaching practices, and positive school culture. The program is available entirely online and consists of mostly eight-week courses and five available start dates. Students may take one or two courses at a time depending on their work and family commitments and complete the program in 12 months. The 30-hour master’s program requires 10 educational leadership courses. A 21-hour Principal as Instructional Leader certification program is also available that provides students with the skills required for central office and campus-level administration.
Degree Options:
Master’s in Educational Leadership
In-State Tuition: $11,061
Out-of-State Tuition: $23,511
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 24:1
9. Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, Arkansas
Points: 4
Program Website
The online Master of Science in Education in Educational Leadership at Arkansas State University is designed to develop leaders in education. Through the program, students focus on areas of learning that include managing the classroom, motivating students, using assessments for learning, implementing research-based instructional strategies, and designing curriculum. Areas of study include school law, ethical leadership, statistics and research, curriculum management, and a supervised internship. The program is comprised of 36 credit hours, including one curriculum specialization course in high, middle, or elementary school curriculum and 33 credits of core courses. Those seeking certification in Arkansas are required to complete an additional three-credit course on Arkansas history.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Education in Educational Leadership Online
In-State Tuition: $11,025
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,025
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
8. University of Louisiana Monroe
Monroe, Louisiana
Points: 4
Program Website
The University of Louisiana Monroe confers an online Master of Education in Educational Leadership that consists of 36 credit hours of study. Students can complete coursework in as few as 15 months if taking classes on a full-time basis. Organized into eight-week terms, students take classes in organizational theory and practice, school community relations, multicultural education, instructional leadership, instructional supervision, and leadership theory and practice. A leadership internship is a required component of the program. As a principal, graduates are prepared to improve student performance, influence positive change, and meet the challenges faced by today’s schools. ULM also offers a master’s degree in educational technology leadership.
Degree Options:
Master of Education, Educational Leadership Online
M.Ed. Educational Technology Leadership
In-State Tuition: $10,800
Out-of-State Tuition: $10,800
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
7. Emporia State University
Emporia, Kansas
Points: 4
Program Website
The online Master of Science in Educational Administration at Emporia State University provides students with the expertise they need to be effective school leaders for PreK-12 grade levels. The program is available entirely online and can be completed in as few as 12 months. The curriculum, comprised of 33 credit hours of study, explores contemporary theory, practice, and methods as well as education law and regulations, school leadership, supervision and evaluation, and technology integration. The NCATE-accredited program also includes experiences and field projects that emphasize the synthesis, analysis, and application of core knowledge. Graduates are prepared for roles as lead teachers, coordinators, athletic directors, assistant principals, and building principals.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Educational Administration Online
In-State Tuition: $10,296
Out-of-State Tuition: $10,296
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
6. Arkansas Tech University
Russellville, Arkansas
Points: 4
Program Website
Arkansas Tech University offers an online Master of Education in Educational Leadership that is designed to prepare candidates for licensure as assistant principals or principals at the building level. Students must complete 34 semester hours of study in areas such as instructional leadership, communication with school and community, action research and data analysis, school finance, organizational change, school organization and leadership, and administrative law. Students are required to complete an integrated, edited portfolio comprised of evidence of their competencies in the field of educational leadership. Although coursework is offered entirely online, it may be supplemented through on-campus experiences.
Degree Options:
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
In-State Tuition: $9,656
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,312
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
5. Lamar University
Beaumont, Texas
Points: 4
Program Website
Ranked among the best online graduate education programs in the country, Lamar University’s online Master of Education in Educational Administration gives students hands-on experience from the first day of the program. Students begin by diving into the methodology, designing, and planning of their research proposal while building skills in analyzing and gathering data. Graduate students complete 30 credit hours of courses, including a capstone internship course, and they can earn their degree in as few as 16 months. Areas of study in the NCATE-accredited program include human resource development, school law, curriculum management, leadership for accountability, research, and the fundamentals of leadership.
Degree Options:
Master of Education in Educational Administration
In-State Tuition: $8,250
Out-of-State Tuition: $8,250
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
4. Southeastern Oklahoma State University
Durant, Oklahoma
Points: 4
Program Website
Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s online Master of Education in Educational Leadership consists of 30 credit hours that can be completed in as few as 12 months. The program prepares students with or without a teaching certificate for administrative and leadership positions in education. Courses are offered entirely online in areas such as school operations management, fundamentals of curriculum development, public school law, and curriculum development. Most classes are taught by faculty with more than 20 years of school administration experience. Since the program does not include an internship, it does not lead to principal certification in Oklahoma.
Degree Options:
Master of Education in Educational Leadership – Academic Track Online
In-State Tuition: $7,950
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,950
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
3. Gwynedd Mercy University
Gwynedd Valley, Pennsylvania
Points: 5
Program Website
Gwynedd Mercy University’s 33-credit online Master of Science in Educational Administration with K-12 principal certification helps students develop practical managerial skills in educational administration. Throughout the program, students gain insight into issues of community relations, law, and school finance. They also explore the economic, political, and social issues that influence public education. The program culminates with an in-person professional practicum experience under the supervision and guidance of a mentor administrator and GMercyU faculty. Courses are provided in seven-week blocks, and students take one class at a time. Students must have a minimum of three years of full-time teaching experience with an Instructional I Certification before they are eligible to obtain Principal Certification in the state of Pennsylvania.
Degree Options:
Online Master of Science in Educational Administration
In-State Tuition: $19,800
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,800
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
2. University of Wyoming
Laramie, Wyoming
Points: 5
Program Website
The University of Wyoming’s School of Counseling, Leadership, Advocacy, and Design confers an online Master of Arts in Education with a concentration in educational leadership. Students may also pursue certification as a K-12 principal in the state of Wyoming. The master’s program consists of 33 credit hours and offers flexible online delivery. Areas of study include assessment, accountability, and student learning, an introduction to school law, and leadership for democratic schools, instruction, school and community relations, school organization, and curriculum development. To be admitted into the master’s degree, prospective graduate students must have a minimum of two years of teaching experience.
Degree Options:
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
In-State Tuition: $11,529
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,349
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
1. University of New England
Biddeford, Maine
Points: 6
Program Website
The University of New England offers a 30-credit Master of Science in Education that is delivered entirely online with relevant, timely classes and optional emphasis areas for professionals seeking career advancement. All students take five core courses in action research, differentiation theory and strategies, teacher as a leader, motivational theory and class management, and a portfolio, and they select five electives to earn their degree in fewer than 24 months. Focus areas include curriculum and instruction strategies, K-12 literacy, inclusion education, adult education, K-12 reading specialist/literacy coach, and educational leadership, which includes classes in school finance, school law, educational leadership, supervision and evaluation of instructional personnel, and organizational theory and strategic planning.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Education
In-State Tuition: $16,800
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,800
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for a Master’s of Educational Leadership and Administration Degree?
Students who earn a master’s degree in educational leadership and/or administration and who become licensed are qualified to seek a number of positions at the postsecondary or K-12 levels, especially if they pursued a specialization within the program. Some of the most common career options for recipients of master’s in educational leadership and administration degrees include:
- Instructional Coordinator: Instructional coordinators are tasked with writing and evaluating the curricula used in postsecondary, secondary, and elementary institutions. Working with principals, teachers, and other administrators, these professionals ensure lesson plans are engaging and effective for students at their respective levels. Some public schools require licensure for these positions.
- Childcare and Preschool Center Director: These professionals are responsible for the day-to-day operations at daycare facilities, preschools, and other pre-elementary learning institutions. In most states, directors must be licensed, and all employees must agree to and pass a criminal background check. Since most positions are given to those with a bachelor’s or associate degree, a master’s degree allows candidates to compete for top positions.
- Postsecondary Administrator: Administrative positions at the university or college level include faculty researchers, student administrators, registrars, and deans. Although graduate students may be eligible for these roles with a master’s degree, some positions require a doctorate.
- K-12 Principal: Principals are responsible for monitoring all daily activities and operations at high, middle, and elementary schools. They oversee the school’s educational resources, administrative functions, finances, faculty, and curriculum. Most begin their careers as teachers before advancing to administrative roles after earning a graduate degree. Public schools in all 50 states require their principals to be licensed; many private schools have the same requirement.
How Much Can You Earn in This Field?
Since educational leadership and administration can be applied to different school levels, and the salary depends on level of experience, specialization, and location, the amount a graduate can expect to command with a master’s degree will vary. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), education administrators at the elementary and secondary levels earned $97,440 per year as of May 2017. The highest 10 percent earned more than $140,780, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $60,760. Top-paying industries for this occupation include management of enterprises and companies, local government with the exception of schools and hospitals, elementary and secondary schools, technical and trade schools, and colleges, universities, and professional schools.
By the same token, the BLS also reports that postsecondary education administrators earned a slightly lower salary of $92,360 per year as of May 2017. The highest 10 percent earned more than $182,150, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $52,960. The top-paying positions for this occupation include state, local, and private colleges, universities and professional schools as well as state, local, and private junior colleges.
Those seeking careers as education administrators in preschool and childcare centers can expect an annual salary of $53,550, according to the BLS. The highest 10 percent of professionals in this field earned more than $85,240, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $29,980. Top-paying industries for this occupation include junior colleges, educational support services, residential care facilities, elementary and secondary schools, and colleges, universities, and professional schools.
What Courses and Specializations Will You Take in an Online Master’s Program in Educational Leadership and Administration?
Earning an online master’s degree in educational leadership and administration provides working educators with the opportunity to learn education management techniques and build leadership skills. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students learn how to lead, manage, plan, and budget for their school while simultaneously working with the community. Students may consider pursuing a concentration that meets their professional goals in areas such as:
- Student Affairs
- Administrative/Administration Leadership
- Enrollment Management
- Teacher Leadership
- Principal Leadership
Depending on the specialization chosen, coursework will vary. Every master’s degree in educational leadership and administration features a different structure and series of coursework depending on its faculty members and focus. However, many programs cover the same general topics in their core requirements. Some of the most common foundational courses a student can expect to take include:
- Ethnography
- School Finance
- Introduction to School Leadership
- Curriculum Development
- Education and Public Policy
- Internships
How Long Will It Take to Complete a Master’s Online in Educational Leadership and Administration?
Keep in mind that the amount of time you can expect to spend on a graduate program in educational leadership and administration will depend on a number of factors such as program requirements, course load, course availability, your specialization or area of interest, whether you take classes on a full-time or part-time basis, and any prior coursework or credits you may have earned and will transfer into the program. However, most online programs consist of 36 credits of study and can typically be completed in one to three years.
Many schools offer individually paced, flexible schedules designed for professionals who are already working in the field. In addition, some schools group their students into cohorts, meaning that all students progress through the program at the same pace. Other programs feature an accelerated schedule and require extra terms in winter and summer, allowing students to earn their degree faster than their traditional peers. Capstone projects and internship requirements may also impact the amount of time it will take for a student to complete an online degree.
Are There Any Professional Organizations for Aspiring or Current School Leaders or Administrators?
Whether you are a current student or you have recently completed an online educational leadership and administration master’s program, learning about various educational approaches and making professional connections is critical. There are several professional organizations that operate for the purpose of assisting education administration and leadership professionals. Students benefit from active job boards, online training, networking opportunities, and other invaluable services that prepare them to enter the job market.
- Association of Deans & Directors of University Colleges & Undergraduate Studies
- National Association of Elementary School Principals
- National Association of Secondary School Principals
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the Top 25 Most Affordable Online Master’s of Educational Leadership and Administration Degrees.
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