A master's in educational administration can help you develop critical skills and competencies for managing K-12 and higher education institutions. These programs focus on tools and strategies for executing an organizational vision and improving learning outcomes. Some colleges offer similar programs under other names, like educational leadership or education management.
New challenges continue to emerge in K-12 schools, particularly amid technological advances and changing cultural values. In the social media age, organizational accountability is also more important than ever. Given these factors, education administrators increasingly need advanced training to succeed in contemporary learning environments.
This page profiles the best and cheapest online master's in education administration programs. Use our guide to research and compare programs as you seek to maximize the returns on your educational investment.
Why Get a Master's in Educational Administration Online?
- Develop Leadership Skills: An online master's in educational administration develops the necessary skills to lead schools and educator teams, including human resources management, policymaking, and program administration.
- Navigate Diversity: School administrators work with diverse populations in educational settings and communities. This degree incorporates strategies for bringing together, leading, and assisting multifaceted teams.
- Complete Work Flexibly: Completing a master's in educational administration online with asynchronous coursework allows you to work around your current schedule.
- Increase Salary: According to Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2023 salary data from May 2023, school principals earned about $38,000 more per year than teachers.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Online Master's in Educational Administration Degrees
#1 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration Programs
Drexel University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,079
Out-of-State | $1,079
Credits to Graduate: 45-46.5
Drexel University's online master's in educational administration prepares students to pursue careers in educational leadership, specifically those who plan to work in K-12 public school settings.
Students can choose from four tracks. The non-certification track leads to a master's degree but no professional certifications. Enrollees can earn certifications by completing tracks in special education leadership, principal certification, or a dual certification of the two tracks.
For the 2023-24 academic year, Drexel University has set tuition for the program at $1,079 per credit for all learners, regardless of location. This reduction makes for a 25% savings off the school's standard rate.
Percent Online Enrollment
89%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#2 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration Programs
George Washington University
- Washington, DC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,110
Out-of-State | $1,110
Credits to Graduate: 30
George Washington University's (GW) master of arts in educational leadership and administration has received endorsement from The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education as a "program of distinction."
The curriculum covers applied topics in quantitative education research, student assessment, curriculum development, and social justice. Coursework gives students the academic background required to obtain principal or administrator licensure. However, it does not lead directly to licensure itself.
GW offers a favorable affordability profile compared to other private institutions. At 2023-24 tuition rates, learners can complete this accelerated program for just over $33,000.
Percent Online Enrollment
25%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#3 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration Programs
Southwestern Oklahoma State University
- Weatherford, OK
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Academic Year:
In-State | $7,530
Out-of-State | $14,202
Credits to Graduate: 33
Students in the education administration graduate program at Southwestern Oklahoma State University can benefit from relatively affordable tuition rates. Learners who qualify for in-state rates pay a total of just $15,060 for the program, which equates to approximately $456 per credit.
The program is built around an intensive core, which features coursework in curriculum development, community relations, research methods, and administrative theory. It culminates in a rewarding capstone experience, which prompts students to apply their synthesized learning.
Students may complete coursework 100% online or opt for a hybrid model. Graduates can obtain a school-endorsed recommendation for education certification.
Percent Online Enrollment
85%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration Programs
Tarleton State University
- Stephenville, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $509
Out-of-State | $775
Credits to Graduate: 30-33
Texas-based Tarleton State University features a master of education program in educational administration delivered entirely online, in small classes. Learners can complete the program in approximately 18 months. The standard 30-credit program leads to a standalone master of education degree, while a 33-credit option confers the degree plus certification.
Tarleton State University has priced the program competitively. In-state degree-seekers can complete the entire degree with certification for less than $17,000.
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration Programs
Texas A & M University-Commerce
- Commerce, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $407
Out-of-State | $815
Credits to Graduate: 30
Texas A&M University-Commerce features a master of education in educational administration program leading to graduation in as little as one year. Students engage with a curriculum focused on financial and organizational management, student performance, and educational leadership.
Graduates qualify for principal certification. As an additional option, qualified learners with existing master's degrees can enroll in a 21-hour, certification-only program leading to principal credentials.
The program also offers comparably affordable tuition. In-state learners pay just $3,669 per nine-credit block, while out-of-state students pay $7,341.
Percent Online Enrollment
89%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
At Affordable Colleges Online, we use a proprietary ranking system and data from reputable sources like the U.S. Department of Education to help you find the best school for your needs. Our most important metric -- affordability -- accounts for 60% of our formula. We also consider academic quality, program offerings, online enrollment, and graduation rates.
This ranking is from 2023. To learn more, consult our school ranking methodology.
Price Check
A scholarship can help students offset the cost of a master's in educational administration. The School Superintendents Association, offers seven educational administration scholarships for graduate students each year.
What To Expect From an Online Master's in Educational Administration
Master's in educational administration programs build skills in curriculum development, diverse instruction, program management, and ethical leadership for educators looking to take on administrative roles in school settings.
Institutions typically award master of arts (MA), master of science (MS), or master of education (M.Ed.) degrees in educational administration. MA and MS degrees are more academic-focused for professionals pursuing educational research or curriculum development. In contrast, an M.Ed. incorporates instructional strategies and practical leadership skills that help graduates transition directly into advanced roles. Many master's in educational administration programs prepare students for principal licensure in their state.
Understand Admission Requirements
Common admission requirements for a master's in educational administration online program include:
- Official undergraduate transcripts with a minimum GPA of 3.0
- Resume
- Valid teaching credentials
- Professional recommendation
- Official test scores, like GMAT or GRE, or an admissions test
However, each school sets specific requirements, so the admissions process varies among programs. For example, some schools offer GMAT or GRE waivers for students with ample teaching experience or high GPAs. Applicants may also need to participate in interviews with admissions counselors for acceptance into some programs.
Explore Popular Courses and Specializations
Courses for an online master's in educational administration vary among programs, although the core curriculum usually explores educational research, staff supervision, educational law, and school finance management. A thesis or capstone is sometimes required, but these degrees more commonly include field experiences and seminars for learners to receive practical experience.
Some educational administration programs offer specializations, tailoring the courses to a student's goals and interests. Usually, specializations focus on a particular grade level, like K-12 or higher education. They may also pertain to specific aspects of education, like special education or principalship.
Complete Graduation Requirements
Graduation requirements for a master's in educational administration vary among schools. However, in addition to coursework, many programs conclude with capstone projects that allow students to direct their classroom learning into hands-on projects focused on real-world problems in educational administration.
The capstone requirement in educational administration master's programs typically includes an applied research project or paper. Enrollees may need to present or defend their capstones to faculty.
Some programs also offer or require a practicum, where learners get professional experience through placements in schools working on educational administration issues like academic affairs, budgeting and finance, and DEI efforts.
What Can I Do With a Master's in Educational Administration?
A master's in educational administration can help you develop the skills and knowledge to apply for various mid-level and advanced jobs in educational administration. Some potential career paths earn much higher salaries than others in this field.
Jobs with median salaries of over $100,000 a year include K-12 principals, postsecondary education administrators, and facilities managers. One of the lowest-earning career options for graduates with this degree is preschool and childcare center directors, who earn a median annual salary of $54,290 as of May 2023.
The table below highlights popular careers, salaries, and the job outlook for educational administration graduates.
Careers for Educational Administration Graduates
Job |
Median Annual Salary (May 2023) |
Job Growth Rate (2022-2032) |
Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals |
$103,460 |
+1% |
Postsecondary Education Administrators |
$102,610 |
+4% |
Instructional Coordinators |
$74,620 |
+2% |
Administrative Services and Facilities Managers |
$104,900 |
+5% |
Admissions Directors |
$66,670* |
N/A |
Preschool and Childcare Center Directors |
$54,290 |
-3% |
Dean of Students |
$70,020* |
N/A |
Education Consultants |
$67,750* |
N/A |
Sources: BLS, Payscale
*denotes average annual salary July 2024 Payscale data
Certification and Licensure
Several administrative roles require state licensure or certification, including public school principals and superintendents, although the requirements vary by state. Most states, including Iowa, New Jersey, and Vermont, require each educator to have a master's degree before becoming eligible for a principal license. Additionally, superintendents typically need a few years of experience at the principal or supervisory level to earn state-approved certification.
Other school-based positions, like instructional coordinator and education consultant, may also require a state-issued teacher or administrator license. Check with your state's Department of Education to determine the licensing requirements for your chosen career path.
Price Check
Joining a professional organization for educational administrators could reduce your tuition costs. For example, the Association of American Educators partners with schools to lower tuition rates for members.
How Much Does a Master's in Educational Administration Cost?
The cost of earning a master's in educational administration varies by program and school. In general, private universities charge much higher tuition than public institutions.
In-state tuition at public schools generally costs much less than out-of-state rates. Prestigious universities often charge a premium over lesser-known institutions.
The National Center for Education Statistics reports that graduate students paid an annual average of $20,513 in tuition and fees in the 2021-2022 academic year. This figure adds up to more than $40,000 for the average two-year master's degree.
Educational administration students can find many ways to help pay for their degrees, including scholarships, grants, fellowships, and loans. We describe these financing options in more detail below.
Find Scholarships and Grants for Online College
Scholarships and grants can lower the financial burden of paying for a degree, as you can apply them directly to tuition and required fees. Unlike student loans, neither source requires repayment. The following scholarships are available for students seeking online master's in educational administration degrees:
- Educational Administration Scholarships: AASA provides seven $2,500 scholarships to educational administration graduate students who are recommended by their school's education department each year. Each applicant must submit a letter of recommendation, two letters of endorsement, and three essay responses.
- Education Pioneers Summer Fellowship: Education Pioneers offers a 10-week summer fellowship with a $7,200 stipend to graduate students pursuing leadership roles in education. The fellowship features mentorship, networking, and in-person learning experiences.
- Jeanne S. Chall Research Fellowship: This $5,000 grant from the International Literacy Association (ILA) is awarded to a doctoral or graduate student completing research in child or adult literacy. Applicants must be ILA members.
Frequently Asked Questions About Master's Degrees in Educational Administration
What is a master's in educational administration?
A master's in educational administration is a graduate-level degree that can prepare students for administrative and leadership roles in education. These programs typically explore teacher supervision, school operations, and budget management. Enrollees are often education professionals with several years of teaching experience who want to become principals, instructional coordinators, or other administrators.
How long does an online master's in educational administration take?
An online master's degree typically takes about two years to complete with a full-time schedule. However, some schools offer accelerated degree formats, allowing students to finish their degrees in 1-1.5 years.
Is a master's in educational administration worth it?
A master's in educational administration is typically worth the cost and time commitment. In addition to pursuing a license or certification, a master's degree is a typical requirement for these positions. May 2023 BLS data indicates that principals earn a median salary of $103,460, indicating a strong return on investment.
What are the duties of an educational administrator?
An educational administrator oversees many school or district functions, including budgeting, educator training, and program development. They may also handle curriculum development, family-school communications, and policymaking efforts.
Can you become an administrator without being a teacher?
Although state requirements for educational administration roles vary, most pathways require teaching experience before becoming an administrator. Many states require master's degrees for licensure or certification, and master's degrees in educational administration typically seek applicants with prior teaching experience.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Affordable Colleges Online. Page last reviewed July 10, 2024.