The Best Online Master's in Educational Leadership Programs
Updated May 8, 2023
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Master's in Education Leadership Programs
School principals, superintendents, and higher education administrators help K-12 schools and colleges run smoothly. These career paths offer advancement opportunities for current educators, as well as for individuals considering a career change into education. Earning a master's degree in educational leadership prepares graduates for advanced roles in educational organizations.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), educational leadership jobs offer high earning potential. The median school tprincipal salary exceeds $95,000, while postsecondary education administrators tend to earn over $94,000 per year. These school administration jobs also offer relatively strong growth projections, with 6% projected growth for instructional coordinator jobs from 2018-2020.
An online master's in educational leadership program offers students more flexibility and accessibility than an on-campus program. For example, working professionals may be able to pursue career advancement without leaving their current jobs. Our list of the best online master's in educational leadership programs ranks the top programs, providing a valuable resource for prospective educational leadership students.
Master's in Educational Leadership Overview
A master's in educational leadership program provides advanced training in school administration and leadership. Graduate students complete coursework designed to train school principals, higher education administrators, and school superintendents. Programs emphasize core skills, including strategic planning in education, school leadership, and curriculum design.
Earning an educational leadership degree generally takes two years for full-time students, though some programs offer accelerated options. Some programs incorporate an internship or practicum, allowing students to gain hands-on experience working under a school administrator. Many online educational leadership programs cater to working educators by prioritizing flexibility.
An educational leadership degree can meet the requirements for positions as school principals, school administrators, and superintendents. After completing an online master's in educational leadership track, some educators choose to earn a doctorate. A doctoral degree can lead to advanced opportunities in education or research, as well as academic jobs. Interested students can learn more about the best online doctoral programs in educational leadership.
Featured Master's in Education Programs
The Best Online Master's Programs in Educational Leadership
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 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#2 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
George Washington University
Washington, DC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#3 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus
Stillwater, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#4 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#5 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Lincoln, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#6 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University offers an online M.Ed. in higher education with a concentration in educational leadership. Enrollees receive the necessary training to pursue administrative roles in postsecondary education. The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of educational administration. The curriculum expores topics, such as leadership and supervision in education and educational policy.
Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations near their home. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private, not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 50%
Total Online Master's Programs: 68
Program name: M.Ed. in Higher Education – Educational Leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,935
#7 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
Texas A & M International University
Laredo, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#8 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#9 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
Tarleton State University
Stephenville, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#10 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
Webster University
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#11 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
Southern Wesleyan University
Central, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in South Carolina, Southern Wesleyan University offers an M.Ed. in administration and supervision that prepares enrollees for principal certification or other educational leadership roles. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum is delivered entirely online using accelerated seven-week courses.
The M.Ed. curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in educational administration. Enrollees develop skills in operations management and public and community relations. Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional practicum and internship experiences at approved locations.
Applicants with at least two years of teaching experience may want to consider this program. On-campus students benefit from the library and gym facilities provided by many institutions. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Southern Wesleyan University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private, not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 56%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program name: M.Ed. in Administration and Supervision
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,560
#12 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
Northwestern College
Orange City, IA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Northwestern College, located in Orange City, Iowa, offers an online M.Ed. in educational administration and principal endorsement designed for working professionals. The program offers a supervisor of special education endorsement track for learners interested in special education leadership roles. Students complete eight-week courses at their own pace.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in educational administration. Topics include operations management, instructional leadership, and curriculum and assessement. Enrollees complete a series of internships designed to give them hands-on experience in their local area. Participants apply their learning in an action research project.
Northwestern College at a Glance:
Type of school: Private, not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 74%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program name: M.Ed. in Educational Administration and Principal Endorsement
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,120
#13 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
LeTourneau University
Longview, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#14 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Phoenix, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Phoenix-Arizona administers an MA in education that emphasizes teaching, curriculum and instruction, and administration and supervision. The degree prepares participants for leadership roles with a higher earning potential.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Enrollees design and implement school leadership interventions to improve student and school performance. Participants develop skills, such as problem-solving and decision-making. Educators complement theoretical learning with hands-on internships and field experience within their local communities.
Enrollees can continue to work by taking one course at a time, with accelerated courses available to speed up degree completion.
University of Phoenix-Arizona at a Glance:
Type of school: Private, for-profit, 4-year or above
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program name: MA in Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $17,096
#15 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Brookings, South Dakota, South Dakota State University hosts a top-rated online M.Ed. in educational administration. The master's degree is designed for students who plan to work with children of all ages. The curriculum is aligned with professional training standards for those seeking positions as education leaders.
The master's curriculum emphasizes best practices in educational administration, covering topics in school finance, supervision, and educational law. A local internship component provides hands-on field experience that may be paid or unpaid. A capstone is part of the internship and requires presentations and discussions based on literature, real-world problems, and research. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
South Dakota State University at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
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
#16 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
Cairn University-Langhorne
Langhorne, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Pennsylvania, Cairn University-Langhorne develops an M.S. in educational leadership and administration especially for educators who want to work in a Christian school context. The master's degree offers a fully online curriculum that features seven-week terms.
The curriculum emphasizes educational administration concepts and best practices. Learners take specialized courses and electives in areas, such as the principalship PK-12, financial business management, and school law. The program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in educational administration.
Online enrollees complete an optional internship at approved sites in their own community. One good thing about this program is that students receive credit for previous courses and work experience.
Cairn University-Langhorne at a Glance:
Type of school: Private, not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program name: M.S. in Educational Leadership & Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,040
#17 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
Capella University
Minneapolis, MN - 4 years
- Online
An online master of science in education, leadership in educational administration is offered by Capella University and helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. Students complete weekly assignments and participate in discussions with faculty and peers.
Participants develop expertise in core areas, such as the P-12 principalship, personnel administration, and school law. Students can customize this degree with specialized and concentration courses. Degree-seekers can transfer credits into this program to help accelerate degree completion.
Attendees gain professional experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Capella University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private, for-profit, 4-year or above
Total Online Master's Programs: 78
Program name: MS in Education, Leadership in Educational Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,767
#18 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
New Mexico State University-Main Campus
Las Cruces, NM - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online educational administration degree should consider the master's program at New Mexico State University-Main Campus, located in Las Cruces. The master of arts in educational leadership and administration in preK-12 + licensure program prepares learners for roles in public school leadership or research.
The degree is also advnaced preparation for leadership roles in governmental or private sector agencies. Students complete most of the degree online but must attend on-campus meetings during the internship component. The internship provides participants with professional experience in educational settings.
The program boasts affordability and tuition discounts for active duty personnel.
New Mexico State University-Main Campus at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 63%
Total Online Master's Programs: 18
Program name: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Administration in PreK-12 + Licensure program
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,981
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,330
#19 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online educational administration degree can enroll in the master's program at Grand Canyon University, located in Phoenix. The master's in education leadership program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for administrative responsibilities. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
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 complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. 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 grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Grand Canyon University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 45
Program name: Master's in education leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,528
#20 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
Hannibal-LaGrange University
Hannibal, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master of education administration degree at Hannibal-LaGrange University uses a flexible distance learning format. The program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The degree program emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to educational administration. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants without an undergraduate degree in education administration or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll.
Online enrollees gain professional experience through internships offered in their local area. Many institutions provide libraries and fitness centers for use by students living on campus. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Hannibal-LaGrange University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private, not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 65%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program name: Master of education administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,250
Online Master's in Educational Leadership Programs Ranking Guidelines
We selected these degree programs based on the program quality and variety of courses provided, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Choosing an Master's in Educational Leadership Online Program
The online learning format can help working educators pursue career advancement without leaving their job. Students should consider several factors when choosing a program, including total program costs, the program's areas of focus, and whether the program meets licensure requirements.
The cost of a master's in educational leadership varies widely. In general, public schools charge in-state learners the lowest tuition rates. However, many distance programs offer tuition discounts to out-of-state students who complete the program entirely online. In addition to tuition, prospective students should consider 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 school principals seeking public school jobs should check whether the program meets the principal licensure requirements in their state.
What Can I Expect From a Master's in Educational Leadership Online Program?
An educational leadership program trains graduate students about leadership principles for careers in education. While earning an online master's in educational leadership, graduate students take courses in school administration, strategic planning, and curriculum design. Many educational leadership programs meet the requirements for a school administrator license, including as a school principal or school superintendent.
The Curriculum for an Online Master's Degree in Educational Leadership
- Administration of School: This class provides an overview of school administration, including the role of a school administrator, foundational administrative knowledge, and the leadership skills required for educational leadership jobs. Graduate students analyze leadership attributes and how they influence educational administration. Coursework also introduces graduate students to the role of government agencies in schools and the broader educational environment. Learners also prepare for advanced courses in educational leadership.
- Strategic Planning: In strategic planning classes, educational leadership students learn how to develop and implement strategic plans. Coursework emphasizes leadership skills and the importance of effective strategic planning in education. It also covers the conceptual framework for strategic planning. This class prepares school administrators for leadership roles within educational organizations. In particular, many school superintendents benefit from strategic planning training.
- School Law: Federal, state, and local laws shape the modern education system. This class examines the legal principles that influence the public education system, including areas like administrative law and fundamental rights. With an emphasis on interpreting the process of creating school law, learners investigate the U.S. legislative and judicial process. Graduate students also learn about the legal context for collective bargaining and employment protections.
- Curriculum Design: Curriculum design courses examine best practices for developing school curricula at the K-12 level. Graduate students study current research on determining curriculum priorities, implementing curricula, and assessing the effectiveness of curricula. The course also explores the role of state and local governments in curriculum development. Students look at standards and benchmarks, the process of monitoring curricula, and the role of assessment in curriculum design.
- Ethics in Educational Leadership: Courses on ethics in educational leadership address ethical issues and dilemmas faced by school administrators. Graduate students examine the ethical principles that guide educational policymaking. They also study the ways ethical issues shape the academic success of students, including vulnerable student populations like students with learning disabilities and students who speak English as a second language. The class strengthens ethical decision-making for future school principals and other leaders in the educational system.
Certifications and Licenses a Master's in Educational Leadership Prepares For
- School Leaders Licensure Many educational leadership jobs require a school administration license, including jobs as school principals and school administrators. Each state sets its own licensure requirements, but candidates must generally have an accredited master's degree in educational leadership or education administration. Many states also require passing scores on an ETS school leadership examination. This test covers educational leadership topics, such as instructional leadership, organizational leadership, and strategic leadership. In some states, candidates for a principal license must already hold a valid teaching license. Prospective school administration professionals should research the licensure requirements in their state.
- School Superintendent Assessment Certification In many states, school superintendent jobs require a license or certificate. Candidates for a school superintendent license often need a master's degree in educational leadership or education administration from an accredited program. Some states set additional coursework requirements, which may require a school superintendent concentration. Candidates for this license may need to complete a standardized test covering school superintendent skills. The ETS exam includes multiple-choice questions on administrative leadership, educational leadership, and instructional leadership. Because the requirements for licensure vary by state, prospective school superintendents should review the process in their state.
Accreditation for Online Master's in Educational Leadership Degrees
Attending an accredited master's in educational leadership program prepares graduates to pursue educational leadership jobs. Regionally accredited programs meet the highest standards for granting degrees. To earn accreditation, universities undergo a rigorous review process that examines their graduation rate, faculty qualifications, and student learning outcomes. The Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation grant accreditation to the independent accrediting agencies that review colleges and universities.
In addition to regional accreditation, a university's school of education can hold programmatic accreditation. In education, the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) evaluates teacher training and educational leadership programs. Programs with CAEP accreditation meet licensure and certification requirements for school principal and school administrator jobs. Professionals with an unaccredited degree may struggle to qualify for educational leadership jobs.
Prospective educational leadership students should look for regionally accredited schools and CAEP-accredited programs when choosing where to earn their online master's in educational leadership.
Educational Leadership Jobs
Earning a master's in educational leadership prepares graduates for leadership roles in K-12 and higher education. At the K-12 level, graduates can work as school principals, instructional coordinators, and superintendents. This degree may also lead to opportunities as a higher education administrator. Learn more about career paths with an education degree by visiting this site.
Instructional Coordinators
| Median Salary: $64,450 | Projected Job Growth: 6% |
|---|
Instructional coordinators manage school curricula and teaching standards. Also known as curriculum specialists, instructional coordinators review state and federal standards to create curricula. Working closely with principals and teachers, instructional coordinators implement curricula, develop educational materials, conduct teacher training workshops, and analyze data related to the effectiveness of curricula. Instructional coordinators may also create teaching training procedures.
Some instructional coordinators specialize in a certain grade level or subject. For example, instructional coordinators can specialize in special education or English as a second language.
School Principals
| Median Salary: $95,310 | Projected Job Growth: 4% |
|---|
School principals oversee school operations at the K-12 level. They manage teachers and staff, establish class schedules, and coordinate curricula. As the highest administrator at a school, principals set academic goals for the institution and make sure teachers receive the resources they need to meet goals. Principals analyze student achievement data to prepare reports and modify curricula.
Many principals work with vice principals, instructional coordinators, and superintendents to manage their school. They oversee the budget and allocate resources for the school. Principals also play an important role in hiring and evaluating teachers.
School Administrators
| Median Salary: $94,340 | Projected Job Growth: 7% |
|---|
School administrators manage student services, academics, and other administrative departments. Many administrators work in higher education, where they oversee admissions, the registrar's office, and student affairs. In these roles, school administrators analyze the school's needs to determine how to best meet them, promote the school's programs to prospective and current students, and provide information on financial aid support.
In student affairs, school administrators advise students, create programs for students, and schedule student services. As administrators, they may supervise staff. Many school administrator jobs require a master's degree and experience teaching or working in an educational environment.
Popular Questions About Master's in Education
What is a master's in educational leadership?
Earning a master's in educational leadership prepares graduates for careers as school principals, school administrators, and superintendents. The degree emphasizes skills like strategic planning, instructional leadership, and school leadership.
How long does it take to earn a master's in educational leadership?
Earning a master's in educational leadership generally takes two years. However, some accelerated programs offer a one-year track.
What can you do with an educational leadership degree?
Educators with a master's degree in educational leadership can work as principals, higher education administrators, and school superintendents. The degree fulfills licensure requirements for school administration.
How much do education administrators make?
Many education administrators earn over $90,000 per year, according to the BLS. School principals typically earn over $95,000 per year, while postsecondary education administrators earn a median salary of more than $94,000.
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