If you passionate about students’ academic success, then find out about the cheapest online master’s in education administration! Earning an online master’s degree in education administration will be good for your career. A successful school needs knowledgeable, compassionate administrators to oversee everything from academic performance to students and staff. With the knowledge gained from this program, students can lead any institution as a principal or administrator.
Education administration centers on the advancement of learning as well as teaching. In short, education administration is a field of study that thoroughly examines the administrative practice and theory of education. The discipline sets itself apart from other administration and management degrees by adhering to the core principles of educational philosophy.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average yearly salary for education administrators is $99,870. This number includes the average salaries for K-12 principals and postsecondary administrators. Additionally, graduates in this field have the privilege to take up leadership roles in various educational settings. They also manage administrative responsibilities at all levels of education, from preschool to graduate level. Let’s dig further! Read on to explore the top online master’s degrees in education administration and career opportunities available to graduates.
Article Navigation: Types of Degree | Accreditation | 12 Cheapest Online Master’s in Education Administration | Curriculum | Overview | Career Information | Conclusion
MA vs. MS. vs MEd in Education Administration
Are you considering a Master of Arts (MS), an Master of Science (MS), or a Master of Education (M.Ed) in Education Administration? Keep in mind that generally a MS or MA allows a student to become dominant in a specific content area. Usually an MA associates with the arts, social sciences, and humanities. Conversely, candidates pursuing an MS tend to focus on sciences, medicine, math, and administration. On the other hand, a M.Ed typically involves more practice. It allows students to improve their craft or advance into leadership roles outside the classroom.
This being said, when an applicant chooses either a MS, MA, or M.Ed with an Education Administration concentration they can be sure of this: the admission requirements, curriculums, and learning outcomes are nearly the same. Of course each program will have their own nuances and individual details that sets it apart. However, all will develop strong leaders and serve as a potential launching pad to an administrative role.
GetEducated's Picks
- Lamar University Master of Education in Education Administration
- University of the Cumberlands Master of Arts in Education / Principal
- Texas Wesleyan University Master of Education in Administration
- William Carey University Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Online Education Administration Master’s Degree Program Accreditation
Accreditation is paramount when searching for an online master’s in education administration. This proves that the program meets the highest level of education standards. Without it, an online degree will have less validity in the eyes of employers and other industry professionals.
The most notable national accrediting organizations for online master’s in education administration programs are:
Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
CAEP specializes in evaluating educator preparation providers (EPPs). The six rigorous pillars for CAEP accreditation include: Content and Pedagogical Knowledge, Clinical Partnerships and Practice, Candidate Recruitment, Progression, and Support, Program Impact, Quality Assurance System and Continuous Improvement, and Fiscal and Administrative Capacity.
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
This organization accredits institutions that offer post-secondary education-related programs. Their rigorous standards are based on a school’s mission, ethics and responsible conduct, quality of education, quality of learning environment, support services, student learning outcomes, resources, as well as the ability to fulfill its mission.
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
A highly respected regional accrediting body is the The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). As the title suggests, the SACSCOC accredits only Southern universities and colleges. Their framework for accreditation includes integrity, a mission that supports higher education, the tools (programs, resources, services) to reach and maintain its mission, and precise educational objectives.
12 Cheapest Online Master’s in Education Administration
Lamar University
Degree: Master of Education in Education Administration
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $9,735Lamar University’s is the cheapest online master’s degree in education on our list. They offer a dynamic M.Ed in Education Administration. Graduates of this program will be prepared to lead as either a principal or superintendent. The coursework for this program is 100% online and is 30 credit hours long. Students take classes one at time in five-week intensive blocks.
In courses such as Fundamentals of Leadership and School Community Relations, many skills will be acquired. Graduates will grow confidence in organizational leadership, operation management, human resource development, and building parent involvement.
Students will gain in-person fieldwork experience in their two internships. With Internship for Supervision, candidates will gain valuable mentorship and work in a real school setting. In the Internship for Principal capstone, students will prepare for the state certification examination. Not only will students receive fundamental experience, they may also graduate as certified Texas principals. Certification is one of the program’s objectives. At the end of their studies, students will qualify for the TExES Principal (268) and Performance Assessment for School Leaders (PASL). Both are needed for Texas principal certification.
This master’s in educational administration online is recognized by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP). This is a national accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Qualified applicants need a bachelor’s degree, a valid teaching certificate, two years of teaching experience, a personal essay, as well as a reference from the principal of where they worked. Please note: Texas applicants must be employed by a Texas Education Agency (TEA)-approved school and out-of-state applicants may not need a teaching certificate.
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Master of Education in Education AdministrationCampbellsville University
Degree: Master of Arts in Educational Administration (Supervisor of Instruction P-12)
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $9,750Campbellsville University offers multiple education administration master’s programs online. The first is an online MA with an emphasis on Supervisor of Instruction P-12. This institution was ranked as one of the most affordable Christian colleges in the country. Students can earn this online master’s in as little as 18 months. Students may choose between a traditional or Option 6 pathway. Option 6 is a pathway to an MA in Educational Administration that accepts candidates who already work at a school but hold a degree from a non-teaching field. The program is for education professionals who want to advance into leadership roles. Graduates will be prepared for roles such as district administrators and school principals.
There are many benefits to this masters in educational administration online, including intimate classes with a small faculty to student ratio. Students are supported academically and have many opportunities for mentorship. In short, CU provides an educational community where students develop strong connections. The program breaks down into Phase I and Phase II coursework. Courses include School Law, Evaluation of Staff and Culture, and Leading Literacy Construction. The curriculum is consistent with 21st century educator needs. Each term is 8-weeks long. Students will learn empowerment, gain skills to ensure students succeed, respect diversity in their community, as well as build equitable partnerships. Graduates will know how to lead faculty, develop coaching relationships, research, and use data to improve learning environments. These outcomes combine with enhanced Christian servant leadership. Students will complete the necessary PRAXIS exams needed for certification.
Application requirements include but aren’t limited to: a valid Rank II teaching certificate, a master’s degree, official transcripts with a 3.0 GA, three years of teaching experience, three letters of recommendation, a Leadership Statement, plus a signed Superintendent Statement. Visit the program page for all requirements.
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Master of Arts in Educational Administration (Supervisor of Instruction P-12)Campbellsville University
Degree: Master of Arts in Educational Administration (Principal P-12)
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $9,750Next, we have another of Campellsville University’s education administration master’s programs online. If you want one of the cheapest online master’s degrees in education that gives students the tools to be effective P-12 principals, then consider this program. Campellsville University provides an Option 6 pathway. This is a special program to earn this MA in Educational Administration for candidates who already work at a school but hold a degree from a non-teaching field. The flexibility of the program allows students to continue working with the Option 6 education track.
Students will learn from experts who know the education world. Faculty consists of current school principals, supervisors, and even superintendents. During their studies, candidates will complete the School Leaders Licensure Assessment and the Kentucky Principal Specialty Test PRAXIS exams. Also, they will complete a School Budget Project and Internship Field Project. Passing the exams will qualify graduates for principal certification in Kentucky. In fact, an exit requirement for the program is to submit a Principal Certification application to the state. They will become eligible for principal or vice principal positions in a Kentucky school.
Classes include School Finance, Curriculum, and Fundamentals of School Administration. Students will learn how to build school budgets, create a program’s culture, and strengthen relationships. In its essence, this program creates leaders who are competent in all aspects of school administration. Each course is 8-weeks long. Therefore, full-time students can expect to graduate in two years. Although all courses are online, the School Principal Internship involves 50 hours of in-person clinical school experiences. This takes place in multiple P-12 settings and gives students a unique mentoring opportunity.
Application requirements include but aren’t limited to: a valid Rank I teaching certificate, a master’s degree, official transcripts with a 3.0 GA, three years of teaching experience, three letters of recommendation, a Leadership Essay, plus a signed Superintendent Statement. Visit the program page for all requirements.
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Master of Arts in Educational Administration (Principal P-12)Campbellsville University
Degree: Master of Arts in Educational Administration (Superintendent P-12)
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $9,750Campbellsville University offers another affordable and flexible online MA in Education Administration. This is another of their accredited online master’s programs for education administration. The third on our list will prepare students to be future superintendents in P-12 settings. This 100% online program can be completed in 18 months. Candidates may choose the regular or Option 6 learning track. Option 6 allows candidates with a non-teaching bachelor’s degree to pursue this MA. They must already be employed by a school, meet the admission standards of the program, and have a certain GPA to be eligible.
Created for aspiring superintendents, the architects of this program are professionals with deep understanding of the industry. Classes divide into Core and Superintendent courses. Core classes include classes such as School and Community. Here students will learn about collaboration, resolving crises, and building relationships with families. On the other hand, superintendent classes include Fiscal Management, Law, and Ethics. This course teaches students about research skills, state and federal law, plus making financial decisions.
Graduates will gain skills in problem solving, project management, financial, research, community building, instructional leadership and creating equity environments. Additionally, part of their studies includes taking the PRAXIS exams needed for certification in Kentucky. Completion of the educational administration degree online means a graduate is ready to be an empowered superintendent. Candidates will also be prepared as effective Christian servant leaders.
Application requirements include but aren’t limited to: a valid teaching certificate, official transcripts with a 3.0 GA, two years of school/district administration experience, three letters of recommendation, as well as a Leadership Portfolio.
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Master of Arts in Educational Administration (Superintendent P-12)University of the Cumberlands
Degree: Master of Arts in Education / Principal
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $9,850University of the Cumberlands (UC) offers one of the cheapest online master’s in education administration. Their MA in Education online emphasizes affordability and quality. UC is a Christian institution that invites students from all walks of life and denominations. This program is for educational professionals who wish to become service leaders as well as greater education advocates. Graduates will gain skills needed to work as vice principals or principals.
Students have access to coursework that is 100% online. UC strives to offer a personalized learning experience with a small student to faculty ratio. For example, courses include School Law, Human Resource Leadership, plus School and Community Relations. Enrolling in this program will teach you about best leadership practices, school ethics, communication, critical thinking, as well as organizational management. Didactic learning will get reinforced by an in-person practicum in a real school setting. Under supervision, candidates will bolster skills and receive excellent hands-on training. Consequently, graduates will be prepared to lead in today’s modern education world. Interested applicants need a bachelor’s degree, a 3.0 undergrad GPA, recommendation letters, and a teaching certification.
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Master of Arts in Education / PrincipalFort Hays State University
Degree: Master of Science in Education Administration (Principal)
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $10,748Is flexibility your biggest priority when looking for an online education administration degree? Fort Hays State University has an excellent MS degree in Building Leadership for Principals. Not only is all coursework online, but students can decide the format of their classes. Each subject is available in 4, 8, or 16 week semesters. This is ideal for people who either want to move quickly through the program or those with limited time to study. In addition, students who already hold a master’s may choose a Non-Degree Endorsement which is 21 credit hours.
As students progress through their educational administration degree online, they will add to their Building Leadership Practicum ePortfolio. This is a graduation requirement. An essential piece of this portfolio is 150 hours of supervised clinical fieldwork. It’s the only in-person element of the program. Not only does fieldwork prepare students for a fulfilling career as a principal, it also qualifies them for the PRAXIS School Leaders Licensure Assessment SLLA Exam. Students who wish to work in Kansas as principals will be ready to take this exam.
Required subjects are Educational Research, Supervision & Evaluation of Personnel, and Advanced Curriculum Development and Evaluation. Students submit a thorough research paper, project, or creative piece at the end of their studies. Those who enroll will develop their decision making skills, cultural competency, IT literacy, use of communication tools, as well as core knowledge of organizational leadership. Qualified applicants need to submit: two letters of recommendation, a resume, a statement of purpose, proof of a teaching certification, in addition to official transcripts from their undergrad studies.
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Master of Science in Education Administration (Principal)Emporia State University
Degree: Master of Science in Educational Administration
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $10,956Emporia State University offers a versatile MS in Education Administration. It has one of the cheapest master’s degrees in education that can connect students to numerous careers. Graduates will be prepared for positions such as lead teacher, assistant principal, principal and athletic director. Classes start on a rolling basis and full-time students may finish in about twelve months. Applicants have the option of pursuing dual-master’s degrees simultaneously. Since Emporia State’s MS in Ed Admin and and MS in Curriculum & Instruction have 15 overlapping credits, pursuing both may be appealing to some candidates.
If flexibility is important to you, then this is one of the best schools for masters in education administration. Scheduling of classes is up to you! Students can choose the schedule they want. Each of the 11 required courses are 7 weeks in duration. For example, classes are School Leadership Theory and Educational Law and Regulations. Graduate students will grow their confidence in both their Field Experience and Practicum courses. These courses involve face-to-face projects in real learning environments. Under supervision, candidates will apply theory into practice to improve student’s learning abilities. The program will improve skills in areas like curriculum development, integration of learning technologies, research, organizational management, educational law, as well as multicultural education.
Taking the Kansas state administrative licensure exam isn’t required. Graduates will qualify to apply if they have at least 5 years of teaching experience. Applicants to the program need: a current teaching credential, at least three years of teaching experience is encouraged, and a bachelor’s degree with at least a 2.75 GPA.
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Master of Science in Educational AdministrationTexas Wesleyan University
Degree: Master of Education in Administration
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $11,220Texas Wesleyan University has an excellent master’s in education administration online. It is ideal for existing teachers who want a stepping stone towards leadership roles. Students can complete the program’s coursework in 12 months. Once they finish, candidates will qualify for the TExES Principal (268) and Performance Assessment for School Leaders (PASL) exams. Passing these tests awards a Texas principal certification.
Students will connect and take classes on the Canvas virtual platform. Engaging classes, one-on-one attention, as well as a time-efficient program allow students to advance towards their professional goals. Also, the faculty consists of former education administrators. With six program start dates a year, students can dive into their studies at a time that is most convenient. This intensive MEd in Administration consists of ten classes and separates into six terms. Additionally, there is a Principal Internship. This experience provides 160 hours of fieldwork in a public school. Here students will be involved in practicing administrative duties under supervision of veteran school officials. Because of the depth of this master’s, it one of the best online education administration programs on our list.
Each class in the program will broaden a candidate’s abilities as an educational leader. Courses like Managing Campus Resources, Instructional Leadership in Public Schools, as well as Psychosocial Dimensions in Education lay the groundwork for a future principal career. Students can expect to learn about conflict resolution, communication, educational laws, personnel management, and building a positive campus culture. For admission, applicants need an accredited bachelor’s degree. If one’s bachelor’s degree isn’t education, then additional undergrad credits or a Texas teacher certification may be necessary.
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Master of Education in AdministrationEastern New Mexico University
Degree: Master of Education in Education Administration
Total Cost (In-State): $11,635
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $15,181Eastern New Mexico University offers a flexible and affordable MEd in Education Administration. This online degree develops administrators who are able to fill the shoes of many positions. Whether it’s instructional leadership, school principal, or superintendent, the ENMU program brings students closer to their goals. Students who complete the program and who have a Level 3 teaching credential qualify for the PRAXIS Educational Administrator: PreK-12 Educational Leadership: Administration and Supervision exam. New Mexico requires this exam for principal licensure in the state.
Students benefit from the program’s flexibility. The course load is up to the individual which is great for people who work. Additionally, small class sizes create a more personalized educational experience. Professors have experience and make an effort to build connections with their students. Students also have an abundance of resources available like tutoring, access to the ENMU Writing Center, and the Golden Library.
The program consists of 15 core education credits and 21 administration credits. For example, courses include Leadership in the Instructional Core , School Law, and Curriculum: Theory to Practice. Students will learn a multitude of topics ranging from organizational management, school ethics, personnel management, community engagement, staff development, to communication. Included is an internship which plays a crucial role in converting theory into practice. Students will have supervised practice in a chosen public school. They will learn how to perform administrative duties. Applicants need a valid teaching certificate, letter of intent, and a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA.
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Master of Education in Education AdministrationMartin Luther College
Degree: Master of Science in Educational Administration
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $11,700Consider Martin Luther College (MLC) for an education administration degree online. MLC is a Lutheran, Christian university that prepares future educational leaders. Although the program emphasizes standards established by Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS), it welcomes students from all backgrounds and ethnicities. Students may choose between three learning pathways: Early Childhood Director, Principal, and Technology Director. Whichever route they chose, each emphasis provides the right tools for educational leadership positions.
Each route offers multiple capstone options. The Early Childhood Directory route concludes with either an internship or a thesis/curriculum project. Whereas, the Principal and Technology Director pathway finishes with an internship, field project, or thesis/curriculum project. Additionally, all coursework is available online. Students interested in director or P-12 principal positions must also complete an internship. The core learning outcomes for the principal pathway are leadership, administration, as well as leadership instruction. Courses include School Leadership, School Business Administration, plus Curriculum Design and Implementation. Students will learn about management, school safety, outreach, curriculum design, planning, in addition to service leadership. The internship is an immersive experience in a school setting. Students will work full-time at a school during a semester to gain invaluable hands-on experience.
Students benefit from expert faculty and quality coursework. Qualified students may apply for the Principal Credential Cohort and receive up to half off their tuition. Graduates will be qualified to work as Lutheran school K-12 principals. For Minnesota principal licensure, graduates will need an additional 24 credits of related-coursework and three years of teaching experience while holding a teaching credential. Qualified applicants need an accredited bachelor’s degree, a letter of intent, and a 3.0 undergrad GPA. Those with a lower GPA must maintain a 3.0 during their first nine credits in the program.
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Master of Science in Educational AdministrationConcordia University – Nebraska
Degree: Master of Education in Educational Administration
Total Cost (In-State): $12,240
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $15,300Concordia University – Nebraska (CUNE) has an affordable online M.Ed for people looking to lead in a school environment. Their goal is to create certified education administrators. CUNE is a Lutheran, Christian institution that strives to bring the best out of their students. Their Master of Education in Educational Administration has coursework that is 100% online. The degree takes 24-30 months to complete. The program accepts applicants from all faiths and backgrounds. Lutheran applicants qualify for reduced tuition rates.
Students can choose between a primary school admin (36 credits) or a secondary school admin (45 credits) concentration. This way, candidates can complete coursework that matches their career goals. In addition, the program offers a dual-concentration option. The benefits of the program are its condensed 8-week class terms, esteemed faculty, and ample hands-on experience. This online M.Ed features 250 hours of field experience via a practicum. Students will expand their knowledge in courses like Ethics for School Leadership, School Resource Management, and School Community Relations. All courses meet Lutheran education standards.
Students can expect to learn about special education laws, curriculum design, public relations, resource management, organization, ethics, personnel management, collaboration, problem solving, and leadership. If graduates have passed the state certification exam, then they may apply for a Nebraska principal endorsement. To be eligible for the exam, candidates need a valid teaching credential and two years of teaching experience. Applicants with a non-Nebraska credential must contact their state to see if it qualifies.
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Master of Education in Educational AdministrationTarleton State University
Degree: Master of Education in Educational Administration
Total Cost (In-State): $12,313
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $24,583Last but not least on our list is the M.Ed from Tarleton State University. Their Master’s of Education in Educational Administration is available online. This program is excellent for experienced education professionals who want to step up into higher roles like K-12 principal, college and university administration, or in technology leadership.
Students have four concentration options: the traditional pathway (K-12), Principal Certification, Higher Education Leadership, or Educational Technology Leadership. Each route features 7 to 8-week long terms, fully online coursework, and an estimated completion window of around 18 months. The K-12 and Principal Certification concentrations nearly mirror each other. The latter features an in-person practicum which is a requirement for the Texas state certification exams. Students who choose the higher education route have exclusive access to Graduate Assistantships. The educational technology route boasts study abroad opportunities, educational partnerships via the Immersive Learning Environments Lab, and special access to technology conferences. Having multiple pathways allows candidates to pursue a degree that matches their ambitions. Additionally, those who wish to deepen their learning may continue with the post-master’s Superintendent Certification program.
The program features experienced faculty. Tarleton’s large Career Services department offers career counseling, job listings, mock interviews, and resume assistance. Students will feel support from the university as they progress in their studies.
Each master’s will give students many new skills. They all will develop their leadership, resource management, and problem solving skills. Learning technology students will learn about media, technology, and innovation. Higher education students can expect to learn about policy, fiscal management, and student services. In addition, students will compliment their didactic learning with an in-person practicum. This will take place in a school setting that coincides with their focus area.
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Master of Education in Educational Administration
Online Master’s in Education Administration Curriculum
Why Get a Master’s in Educational Administration?
Before we discuss what you will learn in an online education administration graduate program, let’s discuss why this is a great degree to get. A master’s in educational administration will help graduates become recognized as an expert in the field and allow them to hone their teaching abilities in this study area. Also, the program offers specialization areas that assist educators in improving student outcomes, whether teaching a specific age group or overseeing the advancement of learners under challenging times.
What Do You Learn in a Master’s in Educational Administration Program?
Students will learn about curriculum development and implementation. They will also gain in-depth knowledge of the best practices used by instructional educators to create, carry out, and assess successful academic curricula. In addition, they will cover topics in educational law where they will talk about how the law affects equity and effectiveness in the classroom.
In an online education administration master’s program, students will adopt a top-down concept that challenges them to consider more significant issues outside the realm of a single classroom. For example, graduates will examine the various staff specialists who will make up their team and investigate many efficient strategies for assisting teachers, staff, and students.
Education Administration Courses
The curriculum emphasizes policy development, leadership abilities, and the social, economic, and political forces that affect school administrators and leaders in different academic settings. Coursework equips prospective administrators with the strategies to inspire students, mentor teachers, and oversee resources.
A few of the notable courses that students will take in this program include:
- School Finance
- Curriculum Development
- Education Law and Policy
- Effective and Administrative Leadership
- Instructional Assessment Strategies
Acquired Skills
Leadership
M.Ed programs will teach you how to manage personnel, inspire students, as well as create a positive culture in the workplace. In short, you will learn abilities to become a tone-setter in your respective environment.
Organization Management
A master’s degree will show you how to create budgets, implement programs, and make important decisions regarding your workplace.
Interpersonal Communication
Whether it’s collaborating with teachers, reaching out to parents, or creating bonds with the community, you’ll be ready. Programs teach students about diversity, equity, and empathy to help them develop those important connections.
Problem-Solving
As an education administrator, you’ll be faced with conflicts and resolve issues that can impact both teachers and students. With a M.Ed, you will be prepared to handle challenges once they occur.
Teaching
M.Ed programs not only boost student’s expertise in many areas, but they also become better educators. As an education administrator you may need to train new personnel, inform the community about policy changes, as well as be at the forefront of curriculum design.
Online Master’s in Education Program Overview
Master’s in Education Requirements for Admission
A Bachelor’s Degree in an Education-Related Field
A bachelor’s degree is fundamental for all online master’s programs for education administration. Because a graduate degree is a subsequent title, it’s impossible to apply without already holding an undergrad title. Education-related fields are recommended but not necessary.
GetEducated's Picks
- William Carey University Bachelor of General Studies / Elementary Education
- Western Governors University Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education
Official Academic Transcripts
All programs will require proof of the education and grades an applicant received. This is typically in the form bachelor’s degree transcripts. However, applicants with titles from other postsecondary institutions may be asked to submit transcripts from those as well.
3.0 Grade Point Average (GPA)
Although some education administration online degree programs accept applicants with lower GPAs, a 3.0 is the most common standard. In some cases, programs allow for either cumulative undergrad GPAs or from the bachelor’s final two semesters.
Proof of English Proficiency (varies for different institutions)
Education administration online degree programs may ask for proof of English proficiency. However, this is only for applicants from abroad or with a different primary language. Usually this means submitting TOEFL iBT or IELTS test scores. This is not a universal prerequisite and will depend on the program.
Teaching Credential
Along with a bachelor’s degree, a key requirement for admission is a teaching credential. More importantly, the document must be current and have been put to use. This is also a requirement for state principal certification examinations.
Teaching Experience
Programs typically seek applicants with two or three years of teaching experience. This is partially because most state principal certification exams only invite applicants with 3 to 5 years of teaching experience. The exact amount will vary per state.
Test Scores
Certain educational administration master’s online require GRE scores in the application. However, this will depend on the university.
Can You Get a Master’s in Education with a Bachelor’s in Something Else?
Yes, you can. Some institutions accept applicants with bachelor’s degrees other than education-related fields. The majority of education administration master’s programs online require applicants to hold a current teaching certification. They also look for at least two to three years of field experience and a 3.0 GPA. As long as an applicant meets these criteria, the program will be more flexible regarding the field of their undergrad degree.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Master’s in Education Administration Online?
On average, it takes 18 to 24 months to obtain a master’s of education administration degree. This is however assuming the student is enrolled in the program full time. If a student is enrolled part time, then the online education administration master’s degree program will take longer to complete.
How Many Credits for a Master’s Degree in Education Administration Online?
Master’s programs in education require between 30 to 40 credits for fully completing the curriculum. Each class will typically equal 3 credit hours. Programs frequently offer courses one at a time, using 7-to-8-week terms, and in sequential order.
How To Choose The Right Program
Cost
Cost is a crucial factor to consider when selecting an online master’s in education administration program. You want to ensure that the investment in your education will result in a return on that investment in the form of future wages. However, the cost of online education varies across various colleges. On one hand, some schools have a rule that guarantees online students the in-state college costs rate. On the other hand, other colleges do not assure that. Depending on the institution, the costs per credit hour range between $250 to $800. For an institution offering 30-course credits, tuition costs will range between $7,500 to $24,000. Thankfully, we have pulled together the cheapest online master’s in education administration programs for you.
Admission Requirements
When considering a program, look at the admission requirements. If a program requires the GRE for example, then you will need to study for, take, and pass the exam with the score that meets the admission requirements. Another thing to consider is if your bachelor’s degree meets the requirements of the program you are applying for. If it does not, then you will need to either take additional courses prior to applying, take an entrance exam, or talk to the admissions office to find another alternative so that you can apply to the program.
Program Format
Master’s in education administration programs online have multiple learning formats. Some courses are asynchronous, whereas others are synchronous. It is vital that you know what the learning format is so that you can plan your education around your other commitments. That being said, it is also important to know if the program requires any in person components. Thankfully, all the programs listed above are not only affordable, but they are offered 100% online!
Location
Even if you are enrolled in an online degree program, the location of the school can affect the cost. If a university is located in a high cost-of-living area, like New York City, then the cost of the programs that university offers will be higher. Therefore, it is important to look at the location of a university when selecting a program. However, we have done the searching and comparison for you and have compiled the most affordable online master’s degree programs in education administration.
Accreditation
In short, accreditation certifies the credibility of educational institutions and their curricula. Therefore, candidates need to enroll in online education administration programs accredited by organizations the U.S. Department of Education endorses. A notable accrediting agency for postgraduate programs in education administration is the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
Certification Opportunities
Before earning an education administration degree, candidates can see if the institution grants an educational administrator license upon completion of the program. Other programs may prepare students for licensure as a principal. If you have a specific career goal in mind, then it is advantageous to look at programs that specifically prepare you for that career and the licensure or certification required of that career.
Is an Online Education Administration Degree Expensive?
Depending on the institution, the costs per credit hour range between $250 to $800. For instance, an institution offering 30-course credits, tuition costs will range between $7,500 to $24,000. Comparatively, an online master’s in teaching can cost between $8,200 to $53,000. The per credit range is $273 to $1,767. Whereas, an online MBA tuition costs between $7,700 and $112,300. This breaks down to between $257 and $3,743 per credit hour.
Paying for Your Online Master’s Degree in Education Administration
Prospective candidates can use scholarships for master’s in education administration to fund their tuition costs and other miscellaneous expenses. They will have access to private and institution-specific scholarships. In fact, certain universities provide an abundance of scholarships just for graduate level students! The quantity will differ depending on the university. There also are some national scholarships available to eligible M.Ed students. For example, the Richard D. Miller Scholarship Award by The School Superintendents Association (AASA) offers $2,500 to seven graduate students who are interested in becoming superintendents. Additionally, other funding options available for applicants include; student loans, student employment, federal government grants, or personal finances.
Are Online Master’s in Education Administration Degrees Respected?
In short, yes! They are respected. Disregarding online master’s degrees in education administration is a practice that is losing favor as more reputable colleges offer graduate courses via their respective distance learning platforms. Due to this, many firms have noted and endorsed this academic trend and modified their hiring procedures to accept all types of degrees.
Is an Online Master’s in Education Administration Worth It?
Earning a master’s in education administration degree online is worth the effort and time spent, as long as graduates enroll in an accredited program and it satisfies the requirements of prospective employers.
Online Master’s in Education Administration Careers
For those considering a master’s degree in educational administration, there are various job options to choose from due to the increasing demand for educators globally. Here are a few career opportunities with a master’s degree in education administration.
School Principal
School principals manage the affairs of teachers, students, and staff, within the educational environment. They recruit, support, and assess teachers from time to time throughout every academic session. They examine classes to judge the performance of the teachers and the students. Also, they decide on new instructional programs or techniques, as well as the selection of textbooks, among other curriculum-related decisions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median yearly salary for high, middle, and elementary school principals as of May 2021 was $98,420. Employment for professionals in this field will increase by 5% over the next ten years.
Licensing criteria varies statewide, however applicants usually have a master’s degree from a state-approved education administration program, a certain amount of practice experience, a teaching credential, 3-5 years of teaching, and have passed the state’s principal certification exam(s). Candidates must submit their application to the state’s department of education. Please note that in some states like Texas a principal becomes “certified” while in Ohio administrators are “licensed.” The term is interchangeable but has the same weight.
Postsecondary Administrator
Postsecondary administrators work in the registrar’s office or admissions department. In college settings, they assist in determining the number of applicants to accept per session as well as meeting with incoming first-year students to motivate them for academic excellence. They also look over submitted applications and examine information about the candidates and admitted students to ensure that due diligence is followed. Based on BLS data, the average yearly salary for post-secondary education administrators as of May 2021 was $96,910. The employment of graduates in this field is estimated to rise by 7% from 2021 to 2031. Unlike with principals or superintendents, landing a job in postsecondary administration doesn’t require a certification or license.
How Much Can You Earn With a Master’s in Education Administration?
According to BLS statistics, education administration salary for professionals varies depending on the years of working experience. Median salary for education administrators takes into account the highest and lowest earners for this job category. The top 10% of postsecondary admins made more than $190,770, while the lowest 10% earned below $59,150 per year. With respect to K-12 principals, the top 10% earned $153,520 while the bottom 10% earned $61,480.
Professional Organizations for Graduates with Master’s Degree in Education Administration
Enroll in a Master’s of Education Administration Program Today!
Besides teaching educators how to lead effectively, an online master’s degree in education administration will expose graduates to various factors that affect education, such as politics and economics. Learners will also share perspectives and ideas with other seasoned administrators to further broaden their conceptions of modern education. At GetEducated, we have the educational resources you need to get started on your educational journey!
How we researched and created this article:
Sources:
- https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes119039.htm
- https://caepnet.org/accreditation/about-accreditation/what-is-accreditation
- https://www.aasa.org/about-aasa/awards-grants/educational-administration-scholarships
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/elementary-middle-and-high-school-principals.htm
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/postsecondary-education-administrators.htm