Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership
What Is a Master’s in Educational Leadership?
An online master’s degree in educational leadership explores administrative elements in education, including policy, curriculum design, and instructional supervision. These programs can lead to careers like school principal, superintendent, instructional coordinator, and postsecondary administrator.
Professionals already working in education typically pursue these programs to transition their careers beyond the classroom. Enrollees can expect to learn about educational law and policy, building partnerships between schools and communities, and financial management. A master’s in educational leadership usually comprises 30-36 credits and takes 1-2 years.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), educational leadership jobs offer higher-than-average wages: As of 2023, the median school principal salary was $103,460, while postsecondary education administrators earned a median wage of $102,610. The outlook for these school administration jobs is also positive — for example, the BLS projects a 4% growth rate for postsecondary education administrators from 2022 to 2032.
Top Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Tallahassee, Florida State University offers an online master's in educational leadership and administration to enhance educators' professional knowledge and prepare them for administrative roles. After completing a master's degree, candidates can pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to educational administration. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants with a background in educational administration typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. The common facilities and services offered at most universities, such as the library or gym, are accessible to students who live on campus. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Florida State University at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 32%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program name: Education Leadership Master's
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,684
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,116
- In-State$5,616
- Out-of-state$18,746
- In-State$9,684
- Out-of-state$26,657
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate25%
- Students Enrolled43,234
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment61%
- AccreditationYes
George Washington University
- Washington, DC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students seeking an online educational administration degree can enroll in the master's program at George Washington University, located in Washington, D.C. The rigorous MA in educational leadership and administration is designed for working professionals interested in K-12 education and central office leadership positions.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Virtual classrooms give enrollees access to scholars, principals, superintendents, and other field experts. Applicants without a degree in educational administration or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
George Washington University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private, not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 43%
Total Online Master's Programs: 50
Program name: MA in Educational Leadership and Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $31,770
- In-State$64,508
- Out-of-state$64,508
- In-State$35,100
- Out-of-state$35,100
- Retention Rate92%
- Acceptance Rate44%
- Students Enrolled25,568
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment24%
- AccreditationYes
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus
- Stillwater, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Stillwater, Oklahoma State University hosts a top-ranked master's in educational administration program. The master of science in educational leadership studies prepares graduates for leadership roles in PK-12 education. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum is a hybrid cohort model designed for working adults who can learn and collaborate together. The MS emphasizes theory and practice, and enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Campus attendance gives students access to common amenities and facilities, such as the library or gym. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 67%
Total Online Master's Programs: 23
Program name: MS in Educational Leadership Studies
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,531
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,034
- In-State$5,417
- Out-of-state$20,937
- In-State$4,208
- Out-of-state$15,836
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate71%
- Students Enrolled26,008
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
University of South Carolina-Columbia
- Columbia, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of South Carolina-Columbia offers an online M.Ed. in education administration with an emphasis in educational leadership and policies in PK-12 schools. The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in educational administration, utilizing simulations, case studies, and research projects.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Common facilities and services offered at most universities, such as the library or gymnasium, are accessible to students living on campus. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
The University of South Carolina-Columbia at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 68%
Total Online Master's Programs: 28
Program name: M.Ed. in Education Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,737
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,760
- In-State$12,288
- Out-of-state$34,534
- In-State$13,374
- Out-of-state$29,760
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate61%
- Students Enrolled36,579
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment63%
- AccreditationYes
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
- Lincoln, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online MA in educational administration at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln prioritizes flexibility. The degree offers specializations in community colleges, higher education, and student affairs administration. UNL's department of educational administration is well-known for developing rigorous and accessible programs for educators pursuing career advancement in P-12 and higher education.
UNL encourages applicants to gain experience in educational administration before applying to the program. Online enrollees work with the school to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Internships and networking events help graduate students enhance their experience and expand their professional network.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 78%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program name: MA in Educational Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,138
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,928
- In-State$8,040
- Out-of-state$25,770
- In-State$6,318
- Out-of-state$18,468
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled23,986
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment63%
- AccreditationYes
Texas A & M International University
- Laredo, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master of science in educational administration at Texas A & M International University, located in Laredo, offers a flexible online format. Students can complete the degree in just 10 months. Enrollees can use the program to help prepare for principalship exams in Texas.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in educational administration. Enrollees learn effective leadership and data-driven decision-making skills. Online enrollees complete practicum or internship requirements in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Campus students have access to the library and gymnasium, as well as other equipment and facilities available at most institutions. Seven-week courses help students accelerate degree completion.
Texas A & M International University at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 59%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program name: MS in Educational Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $3,350
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,712
- In-State$3,818
- Out-of-state$13,634
- In-State$3,350
- Out-of-state$10,712
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate46%
- Students Enrolled8,536
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment65%
- AccreditationYes
Southern New Hampshire University
- Manchester, NH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Southern New Hampshire University, located in Manchester, is a leader in online learning. SNHU's M.Ed. in curriculum and instruction offers a concentration in education leadership. The program emphasizes both practical and theoretical skills that graduates can apply in the classroom and in administrative roles.
The M.Ed. covers subjects, such as curriculum design, technology integration, and leading educational organizations. Internship and practicum activities provide hands-on experience and professional networking opportunities. Students have access to learning resources from day one, and can complete the degree in just 15 months.
Southern New Hampshire University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 94%
Total Online Master's Programs: 29
Program name: M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction with a Concentration in Education Leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $18,810
- In-State$15,450
- Out-of-state$15,450
- In-State$19,467
- Out-of-state$19,467
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance Rate96%
- Students Enrolled184,099
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment97%
- AccreditationYes
Tarleton State University
- Stephenville, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Stephenville, Texas, Tarleton State University offers a customizable online M.Ed. in educational administration. The curriculum offers both principal certification and non-certification degree plans with one of three concentrations: EC-12 leadership principal certification, higher education leadership, and educational technology leadership.
Participants complete practicums to acquire knowledge of a variety of areas, such as building operations and finance and budgeting. Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Campus students have access to the library and gymnasium, as well as other equipment and facilities available at most institutions. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Tarleton State University at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program name: M.Ed. in Educational Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,248
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,510
- In-State$4,416
- Out-of-state$14,496
- In-State$4,356
- Out-of-state$11,916
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate94%
- Students Enrolled15,937
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment64%
- AccreditationYes
Webster University
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online MA in educational leadership and administration at Webster University is a good option for students pursuing K-12 school leader certification. The program builds specialized skills for leadership roles through coursework, internships, and a capstone course.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to educational administration. Topics covered include school law, finance, and leadership and innovation. Online enrollees fulfill internship requirements at approved sites in their local area. Since the program is also available on campus, in-person attendees can enjoy the common amenities and facilities available at most institutions, such as the library or gym. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Webster University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private, not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 53%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program name: MA in Educational Leadership and Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,500
- In-State$30,530
- Out-of-state$30,530
- In-State$13,140
- Out-of-state$13,140
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate59%
- Students Enrolled4,324
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment73%
- AccreditationYes
LeTourneau University
- Longview, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
LeTourneau University, located in Longview, Texas, offers high-quality academic programs, such as the M.Ed. in educational administration. The degree is designed for educators with some teaching experience who want to pursue principal certification.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. The program includes principal certification prep courses and opportunities to take principal practice exams. Online enrollees gain professional experience through internships or practicums offered in their local area. Students complete one course at a time for flexibility, and the seven-week format encourages faster degree completion.
Campus students have access to the library and gymnasium, as well as other equipment and facilities available at most institutions. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
LeTourneau University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private, not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 56%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program name: M.Ed. in Educational Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $18,630
- In-State$34,680
- Out-of-state$34,680
- In-State$16,875
- Out-of-state$16,875
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate41%
- Students Enrolled3,389
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
Choosing the Right Online Educational Leadership Master’s Program
Because of their increased flexibility, online programs can help working educators pursue career advancement without leaving their jobs. Prospective enrollees should consider several factors when choosing a program, including tuition costs, available concentrations, and whether the program meets licensure requirements.
Costs for master’s in educational leadership programs vary. In general, public schools charge in-state learners the lowest tuition rates. However, some distance programs offer flat-rate tuition to out-of-state students who complete the program entirely online, while other schools offer discounted rates for all distance learners. In addition to tuition, prospective students should budget for fees and book costs.
Choosing an accelerated program or a program that accepts transfer credits can also lower the cost of an educational leadership degree. Many educational leadership programs offer focus areas in school principalship or higher education administration. Additionally, prospective principals seeking public school jobs should check whether the programs on their list meet their states’ principal licensure requirements.
What to Expect From an Educational Leadership Graduate Program
An educational leadership program develops graduate students’ administrative skills to help prepare them for careers in education. While earning an online master’s in educational leadership, you can take courses in school administration, strategic planning, and curriculum design. Many educational leadership programs meet the licensure requirements for school administrator careers like school principal or superintendent.
Explore the Educational Leadership Curriculum
Coursework varies by program, but the following list includes several common master’s in educational leadership classes.
- Leadership and Supervision in Education: This course explores the importance of educational administrators and how they interact with, support, and oversee educators. Students learn leadership strategies to build relationships and enhance collaboration in educational settings.
- School-Community Relationships: School administrators must foster beneficial relationships between schools and their communities. This class teaches learners to identify community, school, and district needs and leverage this information to build partnerships, use community resources, and organize community initiatives.
- Critical Issues in Educational Leadership: This course examines historical and modern topics in education. It equips students with the necessary skills, knowledge, and tools to overcome common challenges that schools and their districts face.
- School Law and Policy: Learners in this class explore topics such as special education, policymaking practices, compliance, and educational ethics.
- Curriculum Design: Enrollees learn to craft effective curricula and improve coursework to meet the needs of diverse students. This course also explores integrating technology into the curriculum design process to enhance classroom instruction and learning.
Understand Certifications and Licenses
Many educational leadership jobs require school administration licensure, including roles like school principal and administrator. Each state sets specific licensure requirements, but candidates generally need accredited master’s degrees in educational leadership or education administration.
Some jurisdictions may also require passing scores on the ETS school leadership exam. This test covers educational leadership topics, such as instructional leadership, organizational leadership, and strategic leadership. In some states, candidates for principal licensure also need valid teaching licenses. Prospective school administration professionals should research these licensure requirements for their state.
What Can I Do With a Master’s in Educational Leadership?
An educational leadership master’s degree can lead to education careers outside traditional classroom settings. Some jobs may require additional education, certification, or licensure. For example, some districts may prefer library media specialists with library science degrees or certifications.
Graduates of educational leadership programs often have teaching licensure and experience in the classroom. However, candidates without these credentials should consider administrative internships to gain experience and enhance their resumes.
Graduates of master’s in educational leadership programs can qualify for roles like the following:
| Job | 2023 Median Annual Salary | Job Growth Rate (2022-32) |
|---|---|---|
| Postsecondary Administrator | $102,610 | 4% |
| School Principal | $103,460 | 1% |
| Career Counselor | $61,710 | 5% |
| Superintendent | $103,840 | 3% |
| Library Media Specialist | $64,370 | 3% |
Popular Questions About Master’s in Educational Leadership
What is educational leadership?
Educational leadership is a collaborative process in which teachers, administrators, and other education professionals improve education and student outcomes. Educational leaders work as program directors, principals, and curriculum developers, making administrative decisions that benefit educators and students.
How much does a master’s in educational leadership cost?
An in-person or online master’s in educational leadership costs an average of $400-$700 per credit, equating to about $12,000-$21,000 in total tuition for a typical 30-credit program. However, tuition varies across schools. For example, private institutions often have higher tuition rates than public schools, and highly competitive colleges or universities may charge more per credit than other institutions.
Is a master’s in educational leadership worth it?
Whether a master’s in educational leadership is worth it depends on your goals. You can benefit from this degree if you are passionate about education but prefer to work outside the classroom to create or update policies and processes that improve student outcomes. Some educational leadership roles — like superintendent and postsecondary administrator — have six-figure average wages, which means earning this degree can offer a positive return on investment.
How much do education administrators make?
The BLS reports education administrators working in colleges and universities earned a median annual salary of $102,610 in 2023. However, salaries vary significantly among schools and positions. For example, administrators transitioning into department head roles often receive salary increases. Education administrators in K-12 school districts may also have different earning potential than their counterparts in higher education.
What is the difference between educational leadership and educational management?
An educational leadership program teaches educators the theory and practice of supporting schools, teachers, and students. These programs are best for professionals who aspire to principal and other administrative education roles. In contrast, management education suits future business leaders, like financial directors or project managers by building skills for improving business operations, collaboration, and decision-making.
