Best Online Master's in Education Administration
Updated June 2, 2023
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Master's in Education Administration
School administrators oversee K-12 schools, while higher education administrators oversee student services and academic programs at colleges and universities. Graduates who earn an online master's in education administration enjoy lucrative and in-demand career opportunities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that school principals earn a median salary of over $96,000 per year and projects the creation of 11,000 new principal jobs between 2018 and 2028. Additionally, the BLS reports that higher education administrators earn a median salary of over $95,000 per year, with a 4% projected job growth through 2029.
What Is a Master's of Education Administration?
A master's of education administration prepares graduates for jobs such as school principal, K-12 school administrator, and higher education administrator. Students take classes on topics like school leadership, instructional assessment, and school financing. Some programs offer electives or concentrations in areas like higher education administration, special education leadership, and differentiated curriculum planning.
Many educational administration programs incorporate an internship or practicum to give students hands-on experience in the field. Online programs typically let students meet practicum requirements at an approved site near their home.
Featured Educational Administration Programs
The Best Online Master's of Educational Administration Programs
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in educational administration program is offered by Florida State University from its Tallahassee campus. The program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for high-level roles with increased earning potential. A master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in educational administration. Learners often choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with prior experience in educational administration or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with faculty to find internship opportunities in their local area. Facilities, such as the library and gym, are accessible to students who live near campus. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Florida State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 32%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master's in educational leadership and administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,684
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,116
#2 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
George Washington University
Washington, DC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
George Washington University offers a flexible online master's in educational administration. Students train for leadership roles while earning their degree and graduate qualified for new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in educational administration. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. Applicants who majored in educational administration or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their area. Those who live near campus can enjoy amenities and facilities, such as the library and gym. Graduate students often expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
George Washington University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 43%
Total Online Master's Programs: 50
Program Name: Master of arts in educational leadership and administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $31,770
#3 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's in educational administration program at Oklahoma State University, located in Stillwater, offers a flexible online format. The MS in educational leadership studies program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the educational administration field and related industries. After completing a master's degree, graduates can advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in educational administration. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in educational administration before applying.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their area. Students who live near campus can access the library and gym, as well as other amenities and facilities. Graduate students can participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Oklahoma State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
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
#4 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of South Carolina-Columbia hosts an online master's in educational administration program. The M.Ed. in education administration helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. A master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in educational administration. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. The master's program recommends that applicants have a background in educational administration.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Internships and practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
University of South Carolina-Columbia at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 68%
Total Online Master's Programs: 28
Program Name: Education administration M.Ed.
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,737
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,760
#5 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Lincoln, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln offers an online master's in educational administration. The MA in educational administration program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. With a master's degree, graduates often advance their current career or move into new professional paths.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in educational administration. Learners can choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in educational administration or a related field.
Online enrollees gain practical experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students can also build professional connections through virtual networking events.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
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
#6 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in studying educational administration can earn their master's in education from Liberty University, located in Lynchburg. The master's in education program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in educational administration. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The master's program recommends that applicants have a background in educational administration or a related field.
Online enrollees gain professional experience through internships in their local area. Students who live near campus can access the library and gym, as well as other amenities and facilities. Graduate students can build professional connections by attending networking events.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 50%
Total Online Master's Programs: 68
Program Name: Master's in education
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,935
#7 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
Texas A&M International University
Laredo, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in educational administration from Texas A&M International University, located in Laredo, prioritizes flexibility. The MS in educational administration program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for leadership responsibilities. After earning a master's degree, candidates often pursue career advancement.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to educational administration. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in the competitive job market. The master's program recommends a background in educational administration or a related field for applicants.
Online enrollees can add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their area. The master's program encourages students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Texas A&M International University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 59%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: Master of science in educational administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $3,350
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,712
#8 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Manchester, Southern New Hampshire University offers an online M.Ed. in educational leadership. The master's program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the educational administration field and related industries.
The master's curriculum explores educational administration research and methodologies. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The admission requirements include a background in educational administration or a related field.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students often grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Southern New Hampshire University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 94%
Total Online Master's Programs: 29
Program Name: Master's in educational leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $18,810
#9 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
Tarleton State University
Stephenville, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in educational administration program is offered by Tarleton State University from its Stephenville campus. The M.Ed. in educational administration program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with higher earning potential. With a master's degree, candidates often advance their current career or move into new professional paths.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on educational administration. Learners can choose electives or a specialization to stand out in the competitive job market. Applicants with a background in educational administration typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Enrollees who live near campus can enjoy amenities and facilities, such as the library and gym. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Tarleton State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master of education in educational administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,248
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,510
#10 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
Webster University
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Saint Louis, Missouri, Webster University offers an online master's in educational administration program. The MA in educational leadership and administration builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in educational administration. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. Applicants with a background in educational administration typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain practical experience through internships in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Webster University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 53%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: MA in educational leadership and administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,500
#11 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
Southern Wesleyan University
Central, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in South Carolina, Southern Wesleyan University enrolls master's students in its online educational administration program. Graduate students train for leadership roles while earning the master of education in administration and supervision.
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. Admissions recommends a background in educational administration for applicants.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Southern Wesleyan University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 56%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Master of education in administration and supervision
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,560
#12 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
Northwestern College
Orange City, IA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Orange City, Iowa, Northwestern College hosts an online master's in educational administration. Graduate students train for leadership roles in the field while earning the M.Ed. in educational administration with a principal endorsement. A master's degree can help graduates pursue a new professional path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in educational administration. Learners can individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. Applicants with prior experience in educational administration or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. The facilities and services offered at most universities, such as a library and gym, are accessible to students who live near campus. Graduate students can participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Northwestern College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 74%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: M.Ed. in educational administration with a principal endorsement
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,120
#13 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
LeTourneau University
Longview, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Longview, Texas, LeTourneau University offers an online master's in educational administration. The M.Ed. in educational administration program helps graduates qualify for leadership roles and increase their earning potential.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of educational administration. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in educational administration or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Students who live near campus have access to the library and gymnasium, as well as other equipment and facilities.
LeTourneau University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 56%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master of education in educational administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $18,630
#14 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The M.Ed. in educational administration program at South Dakota State University uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare learners for administrative roles. After completing a master's degree, candidates often advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to educational administration. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants without an educational administration background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The institution provides a library and fitness center for use by students living near campus. Graduate students can build professional connections by attending networking events.
South Dakota State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 89%
Total Online Master's Programs: 18
Program Name: M.Ed. in educational administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,083
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $15,541
#15 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Phoenix, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master of arts in education program at the University of Phoenix-Arizona encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. A master's degree often helps graduates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in educational administration. Learners tailor their education with electives or a concentration. The master's program recommends applicants have a background in education.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their area. Students who live near campus can access the library and gym, as well as other amenities and facilities.
University of Phoenix-Arizona at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, for-profit, four-year
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of arts in education
Graduate Tuition In State: $17,096
#16 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
Cairn University-Langhorne
Langhorne, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Pennsylvania, Cairn University-Langhorne hosts an online master's in educational administration program. The educational leadership and administration program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for high-level roles with increased earning potential. Earning a master's degree often helps candidates move into a new professional arena or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of educational administration. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The program encourages learners to gain experience in educational administration before applying.
Facilities and services, like the library and gymnasium, are accessible to students living near campus. Internships and practicum activities help students gain hands-on experience and professional connections.
Cairn University-Langhorne at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: Educational leadership and administration MS
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,040
#17 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
Capella University
Minneapolis, MN - 4 years
- Online
Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Capella University hosts an online master's in educational administration. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous leadership in educational administration program. After completing the master's degree, candidates often pursue career advancement in the educational administration field.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to educational administration. Learners can choose electives or a specialization to stand out in the competitive job market.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Graduate students can build professional connections through virtual networking events. Facilities and services, such as the library and gymnasium, are accessible to students living near campus.
Capella University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, for-profit, four-year
Total Online Master's Programs: 78
Program Name: MS in education, leadership in educational administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,767
#18 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's degree in education leadership at Grand Canyon University, located in Phoenix, offers high academic quality. Graduate students train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the M.Ed. program. A master's degree often helps learners advance in their current field or pursue a new professional path.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in educational administration. Learners can choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants without a background in education may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
The institution provides a library and fitness center for use by students living near campus. Graduate students can grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Grand Canyon University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, for-profit, four-year
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 45
Program Name: Master's in education leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,528
#19 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
Hannibal-LaGrange University
Hannibal, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in educational administration program offered by Hannibal-LaGrange University builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates often advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in educational administration. Learners can choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. The M.Ed. program recommends applicants have a background in educational administration or a related field.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their area. Graduate students can build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Hannibal-LaGrange University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 65%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: M.Ed. in administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,250
#20 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration
Emporia State University
Emporia, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's degree in educational administration at Emporia State University emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles with increased earning potential. A master's degree can help graduates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in educational administration. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program recommends a background in educational administration or a related field for applicants.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their area. Internships and practicum activities help enrollees gain hands-on experience and professional connections.
Emporia State provides a library and fitness center for use by students living near campus.
Emporia State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 86%
Total Online Master's Programs: 17
Program Name: Master of science in educational administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,547
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $20,365
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Academics -
Affordability -
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Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
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What Else Can I Expect From an Online Master's in Educational Administration Program?
Courses vary by program, but we outline several common master's in education administration classes below.
Education Administration Curriculum
- Instructional Leadership: This course covers the operational functions of schools, the role of data analysis in school leadership, and how to use teacher evaluations to improve instruction. Graduate students also learn to manage resources — including teachers, budgets, and district opportunities — to increase student achievement. Depending on the program, this class may also cover how to implement English language learning and special education programs. The course prepares students for leadership roles in K-12 schools.
- School Financing: Students in this course learn how to develop a school or district budget and conduct budget forecasting. Students learn about the collaborative process behind creating a budget, budget implementation models, and the role of government funding in budget development. The course also covers topics like enrollment trends, student attendance reimbursements, and population projections, including how these topics shape school financing.
- Educational Psychology: This course examines the theories and research behind how students learn. Participants investigate how culture and context shape student learning, examining topics like motivation, human development, and educational management. Students also learn how to develop teaching methods and instructional processes based on psychological concepts. The course prepares future education administrators to improve instruction using educational psychology.
- School Administration: This class introduces students to foundational school administration principles and responsibilities. Learners study administrative doctrine, leadership behavior, and leadership skills in an educational environment. Learners also study school administration theories and applications. Some programs incorporate a practicum to give students hands-on experience in school leadership. The course prepares students for leadership roles in schools.
- School Law: This course examines the legal framework of the public education system in the United States. Students learn about judicial decisions that shape school law, the legal responsibilities of schools, and the legal constraints on public school officials. Learners study topics like collective bargaining, employment discrimination, and special education law. The course prepares future school administrators to adhere to laws and regulations.
Certifications and Licenses a Master's in Education Administration Prepares For
Many education administration careers require a license. For example, principals generally need to complete a master's degree and hold a state-issued license to qualify for job opportunities. However, most higher education administrators do not need a license. Licensure requirements vary by state, so prospective school administrators should research the requirements in the state where they intend to work.
Choosing an Online Master's in Educational Administration Program
When researching potential online master's in education administration programs, students should consider factors such as a program's cost, accreditation status, format, and available specializations. Typically, public institutions cost less than private institutions, but students at both types of schools can take advantage of financial aid opportunities to help offset education costs.
Additionally, students may need to attend an accredited school to qualify for professional licensure or certification. For example, many states require individuals to hold an accredited degree to qualify for a principal or administrator license.
The length of an education administration master's degree track varies depending on the program and a student's enrollment status. Most programs take two years of full-time study to complete, although some schools offer accelerated timelines. Students should also consider a program's format. Asynchronous programs do not require set login times, giving students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional responsibilities.
Finally, many programs offer specializations in areas like principalship and higher education administration. Students should ensure they choose a program with focus areas that align with their career goals.
Accreditation for Online Master's in Educational Administration Degrees
Prospective students should ensure they attend an accredited school. Several education administration careers require a license, including school principal jobs. In most states, licensure candidates need an accredited graduate degree. Similarly, many employers prefer candidates with an accredited degree.
Schools may hold regional or national accreditation, with regional accreditation generally considered the more prestigious of the two. Regional accreditation is typically awarded to nonprofit, degree-granting schools that meet high academic standards.
Programs within a school may also receive specialized accreditation. Programmatic accreditation applies to specific programs, including teacher preparation and education administration programs. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation grants programmatic accreditation to education administration programs.
Educational Administration Careers
Graduates with a master's degree in education administration enjoy diverse career opportunities. We cover several common jobs for graduates below.
Instructional Coordinators
Instructional coordinators -- also called curriculum specialists -- oversee a school's or district's curriculum and teaching standards. They develop educational materials, organize teacher training events and workshops, and analyze student performance data to make curriculum improvements. Some instructional coordinators specialize in an area such as special education or English as a second language.
School Principals
School principals oversee the operations of K-12 schools. They implement curriculum standards, manage teachers and staff, and oversee the school's budget. Principals also hire teachers and assess their performance. In many schools, principals implement standards set by the district and coordinate with the superintendent and school board to improve the school. Principals often need a state school administrator or principal license.
Higher Education Administrators
Higher education administrators manage student services and academic departments at colleges and universities. They may specialize in several areas, such as admissions and student affairs. Higher education administrators in admissions offices may set targets for how many students to admit, conduct outreach to encourage student applications, and oversee staff members. In student affairs, higher education administrators advise students on academic issues, lead programs, and schedule services.
Popular Questions About Master's in Education Administration
What is a master's in education administration?
Earning a master's in education administration prepares students for leadership positions in K-12 schools and colleges and universities.
What can you do with a master's in education administration?
Graduates with a master's in education administration can work as school principals, higher education administrators, and school administrators. They may hold the job title of dean, director, or vice principal.
How long does it take to get a master's in education administration?
Completing a master's in education administration program generally takes two years of full-time study, though some programs offer accelerated timelines.
How do I become an education administrator?
Many education administrator jobs require a master's degree from an accredited program and a state-issued license. For example, principals and other administrators at public schools often need a license.
How much do education administrators make?
Salaries for education administrators vary based on their specific role. School principals earn around $95,000, while higher education administrators earn a median salary of $94,000 per year.
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