By TED Staff
October 2021
A master’s degree in Educational Leadership or Administration is a natural stepping stone on the path between the classroom teacher and administrator in an office with a door. Being able to pursue this degree online, while keeping your current job and responsibilities, is a wonder of the current age. Many of these programs require applicants to be an experienced, licensed educator in your home state, so be sure you are qualified to apply to your selected program. This list of the top 20 best online master’s in educational leadership can help you select the program that is best tailored to your interests and bottom line.
Another thing to research before you write the application fee check is to ensure that your chosen program is authorized to provide educational services in the state where you reside. Each school contracts individually with each state, so authorization is a continually evolving thing.
In compiling this list of the top 50 best online master’s in Educational Leadership, we used the rating and ranking methodology broken down
Since the degrees tend to grant significant and well-earned levels of authority, expectations tend to run higher compared with other graduate degrees. For instance, often you will be required to have multiple levels of letters of reference to support your application. Such institutional support will be crucial to you in getting admittance but also upon graduation. Please note that attitudes and applications toward testing have altered recently, and not all schools expect the conventional GRE test scores.
Often, these schools balance the needs of already busy professionals with the necessary theories of curriculum design and applied internships in real educational settings. A mentor system from beginning to end maximizes the efficiency of getting through the program rapidly. Also, programs situate students within busy systems to maintain real-life experience and direct application of your student work. The widely-adopted cohort system increases the coherence of your personal student experience by having a shared class to come in and graduate with, despite the intensity of also working full-time.
While a likely gateway to the educational positions like principal or other administrative positions, the possibilities grow beyond such limits. Of course, you will have fairly challenging exams to complete. Of course, you are familiar with this, but it is still something to prepare for. From Praxis to comprehensives to exit interviews you must stick the landing. The following schools have been evaluated using the charts below. Figures come from the schools themselves or Niche.com. CAEP is the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. Where there is a tie in points, weight is given to lower tuition costs.
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation:
- $65K and under – 5 points
- $50K and under – 4
- $45K and under – 3
- $40K and under – 2
- $35K and under – 1
Student to Faculty Ratio Ranking:
- 10 and under – 5 points
- 15 and under – 4
- 20 and under – 3
- 30 and under – 2
- 50 and under – 1
Hourly Tuition Rate:
- $400 and Under – 5 points
- $600 and Under – 4
- $800 and Under – 3
- $1,000 and Under – 2
- $1,500 and Under – 1
Regional Accreditation: 5 points
CAEP Accreditation: 5 pts
#50. Texas A & M University at College Station
Online Master of Education in Administration w/ emphasis in PreK-12
College Station, Texas
Hourly Tuition Rate: $1,475.15
Total Points: 12
Website
Texas A&M University now has an online master of education in administration, PK-12 emphasis that distinguishes itself by training you and your cohort in a balance of coursework to prepare for what hits the typical educational leadership, with “social, moral, cultural, legal, political, and fiscal” bases of learning for those that will be leading schools and government organizations. For admission into the master’s program you will need to complete the ApplyTexas application, transcripts, and your latest GRE scores. For the department to say yes to you, you will have to write a convincing and concise personal statement of objectives, a professionally edited resume, and three letters of reference. Texas A&M University’s 36-credit MEd in administration, PK-12 emphasis online can be finished in roughly two years, or five semesters.
#49. Saint Leo University
Online Master’s of Educational Leadership
Saint Leo, Florida
Hourly Tuition Rate: $510
Total Points: 12
Website
Saint Leo University online master’s of educational leadership is a career-oriented program that prepares students to manage educational environments for students, assessing achievement and academic gaps. Saint Leo University’s master’s of educational leadership online indicates that it has become common practice for those in educational leadership to have at least a master’s degree and makes you eligible for level 1 certification. Suggested positions for graduates range from principal to corporate trainer to director of college admissions.
#48. Marshall University
Online Master of Arts in Leadership Studies, School Principal
Huntington, West Virginia
Hourly Tuition Rate: $365.75
Total Points: 15
Website
Marshall University’s online master of arts in educational leadership is mentor-directed problem, meaning that, if admitted, you will be required to choose a currently working principal to guide you throughout your time in the program. You and your peers will also need to do fieldwork, put together a Capstone project, and keep in mind that you will need to do the last section of your work at the Leadership Evaluation Institute. To get into the 36-credit online MA in educational leadership offered by Marshall University, you must be licensed with two years of teaching experience. Also, you must supply a recent MAT or GRE score.
#47 – DePaul University
Chicago, Illinois
Online MA in Educational Leadership or MEd in Educational Leadership
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: No
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $53,300
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $655
Points: 16
Website
DePaul University features several concentration choices, including some Catholic-specific options for teacher-leader, higher education, principal license, and physical education, among other MA or MEd possibilities. Your requirements for admission depend on your concentration, from MA/MEd educational leadership candidates that require two letters, to the principal track that requires five letters from supervisors, colleagues, and peers. Completion of the degree requires a thesis to be written and successfully defended for the DePaul University MA or MEd in educational leadership to be awarded.
#46 – Belhaven University
Jackson, Mississippi
MEd in Educational Leadership Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: No
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $37,300
Student to Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $525
Points: 16
Website
Belhaven University’s master of education in educational leadership is a fully online 33-credit program designed for ambitious Mississippi educators that seek to enhance and validate their professional bona fides. Getting in requires that you have at least a 5-year renewable license to teach in Mississippi, 3 years of experience and a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75. To complete your degree, you will need to complete several capstone courses and an internship. The Belhaven University MEd in Educational Leadership online makes it clear the school has a committed Christian perspective.
#45 – Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, Virginia
MEd in Educational Leadership Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $44K
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $1,386
Points: 17
Website
The Virginia Commonwealth University online master of education in educational leadership stresses experience in the field that prepares you for the rigors of leading others in improving schools and other educational organizations. The top-rated faculty will guide you through the foundations and likely concentrations in the 33-credit administration and supervision and 30-credit leadership studies. Virginia Commonwealth University’s M.Ed. in educational leadership can take as few as sixteen months. To get in, you will need to submit test scores.
#44 – University of Montevallo
Montevallo, Alabama
MEd in Instructional Leadership Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $34,200
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $936
Points: 17
The online master’s of education in educational leadership at the University of Montevallo expects that applicants have teaching or instructional support certification, three years of experience and score sufficiently on GRE or MAT tests. Also, applicants will need to pass an interview and portfolio evaluation. The school offers a special scholarship for those that choose to work with the Montevallo Educator’s Partnership. You and your cohort will need to take the Instructional Leadership Core courses, which balance leadership, fiscal resource study, law, and ethics. Also, you will need to take technology, data analysis, and applied research courses. To fulfill requirements to pass the University of Montevallo’s fully online MEd in educational leadership, you will need to score appropriately on the corresponding Praxis II exams.
#43 – Appalachian State University
Boone, North Carolina
MA in School Administration Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $38,800
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $895.50
Points: 17
Website
When looking into the master of arts in school administration at Appalachian State University, you will see a fully-developed online cohort style degree that mimics the in-person student experience while attending to the needs of distance learners. To complete your 36 credits you will be able to take advantage of three possible methods of course delivery: synchronous; asynchronous; and an arranged practicum (or more) that aligns your career at present with your future prospects. The online MA in school administration offered by Appalachian State University sets students up for employment as a school administrator at the elementary level.
#42 – Saint Joseph’s University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
MS in Educational Leadership and Administration Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: No
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $59,600
Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $780
Points: 17
Website
Saint Joseph’s University’s 30-credit online master of science in educational leadership and administration is stepped in the Jesuit disciplines of academic and spiritual rigor. You can study part-time or full-time, depending on your needs. Class size is notably small. Saint Joseph’s University online MS in educational leadership and administration prefers to allow you to take any combination of in-person and distance, except for courses in special education that will have to be taken in a hybrid format along with your cohort, all of whom will need 39 credits to finish.
#41 – Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Winona, Minnesota
MA in Educational Leadership Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: No
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $50,400
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $535
Points: 17
Website
The Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota fully online master of arts in educational leadership is designed to take you less than 24 months to complete the 33 credits. The school emphasizes efficiency and pragmatic delivery of the key skills needed in contemporary leadership roles. Among the traits you can identify and emulate is the skills of communication for any graduates seeking positions of principal, coordinator, or instructor of other teachers. The website for the Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota MA in educational leadership online also notes how much the program tries to keep costs to a minimum.
#40 – Clemson University
Clemson, South Carolina
MEd in Administrative Supervision Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: No
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $52,400
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $499
Points: 17
Website
Clemson University’s online master of education in administrative supervision – building level focuses on certification. The site stresses the balance of asynchronous course elements and the helpful synchronous support necessary for any student seeking faculty or administrative advice. Admittance to the online MEd in administration and supervision – building level available at Clemson University requires three letters of reference; a recent GRE or MAT score (waiver available); five years of classroom teaching experience with at least two in a position of leadership; and a 3.0 undergrad GPA.
#39 – University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, Illinois
MEd in Education Policy, Organization & Leadership Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: No
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $61.5K
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $482
Points: 17
Website
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign master of education in education policy, organization, and leadership online will allow you to specialize in either digital learning or bi-lingual/bi-cultural education. Your cohort and you will also be able to concentrate in areas such as global studies, human resources, and diversity & equity. The program is designed so you will have required synchronous meetings each week in addition to your personally-directed use of university services in tune with the needs of the distance learner. To support you in your time in University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign’s online MEd in education policy, organization and leadership, fellowships and assistantships are well-organized into a finder and clearinghouse for you to scour for those that fit your skills and needs.
#38 – University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Lowell, Massachusetts
MEd in Educational Administration Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: No
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $53,300
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $470
Points: 17
Website
The University of Massachusetts-Lowell master of education in educational administration is a 30 credit online degree that is structured to maintain a cohort for you and fellow incoming students, summer, fall, or spring. New to the foundations curriculum is the inclusive school course, which complements principles of supervision and the role of the curriculum and instructional leader courses. More advanced coursework will prepare you to evaluate programs and manage finances. One elective and a capstone course are needed to graduate from the University of Massachusetts-Lowell’s online MEd in Educational Administration.
#37 – Dakota Wesleyan University
Mitchell, South Dakota
Online MA in Educational Policy and Administration
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: No
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $37,200
Student to Faculty Ratio: 9:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $375
Points: 17
Website
The 36 credit online master of arts in educational policy and administration that Dakota Wesleyan University proffers has an eight week term system and can be completed in just 15 months. This program is looking to admit applicants with an undergraduate GPA of 2.7 or better. Dakota Wesleyan University’s MA in educational policy and administration online is recommended for those pursuing principal certification or teaching or coaching at the college level. Students should be prepared with a completed application, a current resume, and a personal statement to be included with the admissions packet.
#36 – Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Online MSE with a specialization in Educational Leadership
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $45,300
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $1,025
Points: 18
Website
Nova Southeastern University’s online master of science in education with a specialization in educational leadership has three directions from which you may choose: certification tracks in Nevada and Florida and a track that is only toward a degree. The progress of your studies runs from educational research to educational budgeting to school law for administrators. Before you graduate, you will be expected to work in an administrative internship. If your last latter sixty credits were achieved with at least a 3.0 GPA, you have a current teaching certification, recent evaluations, and a supervisor recommendation, you can apply for entrance into the Nova Southeastern University MSE with a specialization in educational leadership online.
#35 – East Carolina University
Greenville, North Carolina
Master of School Administration Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $40,500
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $893.82
Points: 18
Website
East Carolina University’s graduate department has a 42-credit master of school administration that features an “MSA Letter of Agreement and Support” that you, a particular principal and the correlating superintendent must sign to agree that you will work together to support you throughout the process. The in-person element of the program is face-to-face meetings with your support people. While students can be full or part-time, the MSA in school administration at East Carolina University expects that students that maintain a full schedule, including summers, should finish within two years. If you are getting licensure as principal, you will need to complete service learning projects and an internship of at least a year.
#34 – Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, North Carolina
Master’s of School Administration Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $37,700
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $756.52
Points: 18
Website
Western Carolina University’s Master’s in School Administration is a mostly online program, with four in-person Saturday meetings per term. You are expected to have a 3.0 undergraduate GPA in your completed undergraduate degree, three years of teaching experience, and current licensure. A useful chart that compares full and part-time calendars and deadlines is featured on the department page. Typical completion of the program takes four semesters. Western Carolina University’s 36-credit online MSA requires you to take at least 9 credit hours if you are full-time. In your second year you must partake in a full-time internship.
#33 – Gwynedd Mercy University
Gwynedd Valley, Pennsylvania
Online MS in Educational Administration
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: No
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $54,300
Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $600
Points: 18
Website
The online master of science in Educational Administration at Gwynedd Mercy University is an advanced 33-credit program that features strong foundations in training to assess and evaluate faculty and pupils, teach and work effectively with peers and younger professionals, and professionalize your instruction techniques. You should expect an accelerated pace to the program with seven-week courses and strong resource facilities to support you. This infrastructure will model a pedagogical approach while expecting your feedback as part of the process. Gwynedd Mercy University’s MS in educational administration online will be your proponent during and after your educational experience in the forms of networking and career advising.
#32 – Cardinal Stritch University
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Online MS in Educational Leadership
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: No
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $48,500
Student to Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $595
Points: 18
The online master of science in educational leadership that Cardinal Stritch University offers is a 31 credit affair comprised of six week courses. This degree can lead to principal or director of instruction certification in the state of Wisconsin. A maximum of nine credit hours are allowed to be transferred into the MS in educational leadership online at Cardinal Stritch University. Application to this program requires two letters of recommendation and a personal essay as part of the admissions process.
#31 – Arkansas Tech University
Russellville, Arkansas
Online MEd in Educational Leadership
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $34,100
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $584
Points: 18
Website
The 34 credit hour online master of education in educational leadership that Arkansas Tech University offers is designed to lead to licensure as an Arkansas building level leader, but it may be applicable in other states as well. This program requires acceptance by the Graduate College and the Learning Educational Leadership Program of Study at the school. Admission requirements for these two admissions include a current teacher’s license and proof of two years teaching experience. Arkansas Tech University’s MEd in educational leadership online is comprised of a 13 hour core and 21 hours of studies in this field.
#30 – Indiana State University
Terre Haute, Indiana
MEd in School Administration Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $39K
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $541
Points: 18
Website
Indiana State University’s online master of education in school administration and supervision has a carefully-designed academic approach with theoretical and research-based training for future administrators. All members of your cohort will be required to culminate the experience with intense internship and portfolio production. The 33-credit program offers a rolling curriculum for those that will teach in Indiana. Not surprisingly, the MEd available in school administration and supervision at Indiana State University can only be taken by residents of Indiana. You may choose among the Education department’s ten distinct scholarships that may be what makes the degree possible for you.
#29 – Ball State University
Muncie, Indiana
Online MAE in Educational Administration and Supervision
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $41,100
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $651
Points: 19
Website
Ball State University has a fully online master of arts in education in educational administration and supervision that is extensive and rigorous in preparing for the next representatives in educational leadership. The school is regularly represented in top distance learning program lists, with value and attention to online student needs. You and your cohort will need to complete 33 core academic hours three credits of which are elective. To complete your studies in Ball State University’s online MAE in educational administration and supervision, you will need to complete a school administration internship that runs over two semesters.
#28 – Southern Arkansas University Main Campus
Magnolia, Arkansas
MEd in Educational Administration and Supervision Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $35,700
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $526.50
Points: 19
Website
The 30-credit Southern Arkansas University online master of education in educational administration and supervision seeks to provide a space for you to develop both: the necessary demanding scholarship for study at the graduate level: and to see and participate in models of leadership in the real world. Also stressed is the communications skills you will need to sharpen to make your professional mark. Of course, you will need to grow comfortable with both instruction technologies and modifying curriculum and instruction. Southern Arkansas University online MEd in educational administration and supervision online is proud to display that the school has regularly featured on national lists based on how competitively affordable the department is.
#27 – Eastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, Michigan
MA in Educational Leadership Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $39,300
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $512
Points: 19
Website
Among the many online degrees featured at Eastern Michigan University, the master of arts in educational leadership has been crafted to suit distance learners seeking equivalent education for lower than average tuition. The professional ethos set for those accepted into the program seeks to balance co-worker cooperation and leadership with careful attendance to the needs of students and family and community. Also stressed is the necessary training to help graduates handle school operations with aplomb and resources so that they can be attentive changing what is not helping the educational process. To get into Eastern Michigan University’s 35-credit online MA in educational leadership students need to have at least a 2.7 undergraduate GPA and well-attuned letters of reference and a professional resume.
#26 – University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, North Carolina
Master of School Administration in Educational Leadership Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $37,500
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $511.66
Points: 19
Website
The online University of North Carolina at Greensboro master of school administration in educational leadership is 42 credits that includes significant internship hours (twelve) and leads to a P license in the state, qualifying one to act as a principal. The school site points out that most students in the program are part time. On top of the typical core coursework you will study cultural and political dimensions of schooling, as well as teacher rights, recruitment, retention, and evaluation. Further study is more research-based at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro MSA master of school administration in educational leadership online, which also includes a fellows scholarship.
#25 – Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, Kentucky
Online MAE in Instructional Leadership and Policy Studies
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $36,100
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $510
Points: 19
Website
The online master of arts in educational leadership and policy studies at Eastern Kentucky University stresses preparation for several possible educational paths, improving your rank and salary potential in the process. Educators with a bachelor’s degree and certification are considered of the third rank. Reaching the second level ranking comes from finishing the thirty credit master’s. You will qualify as a first rank if you are working on a second master’s. Similar ranking systems are available for school safety, and other leadership or supervision paths. Eastern Kentucky University MAE in educational leadership and policy studies online is part of the school’s continued excellence in distance learning as indicated by being present on a number of best online education lists.
#24 – Delta State University
Cleveland, Mississippi
MEd in Educational Administration and Supervision Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $33,700
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $417
Points: 19
Website
The Delta State University’s master of education in educational administration and supervision online is a 10 course/30 unit program that can be completed in just one year. With the ability to begin at any term, the degree is focused on the Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (PSEL). The GRE requirement for admission is waived for any applicant who has previously completed another graduate degree. Other admission requirements for the online MEd in educational administration and supervision include: a letter of recommendation from a school administrator, transcripts showing an undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or better on the last 64 hours of coursework, and a collection of documents that showcase the student’s professional experience.
#23 – New Mexico State University-Main Campus
Las Cruces, New Mexico
MA in PK-12 Public School Administration Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $34,600
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $399.50
Points: 19
Website
New Mexico State University-Main Campus’s master of arts and licensure program in educational administration is 33 credits and tailored directly for the students learning from a distance. Still, some attendance is required–specifically, a seminar each month at the main campus. The program touts the valuable training you will get in preparation for the public or even the private sector among the educational agencies. For entry into the online New Mexico State University-Main Campus MA and licensure program in educational administration, you will need to have a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA, current licensure and three years of teaching experience.
#22 – Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, Utah
MS in Educational Leadership Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $41,900
Student to Faculty Ratio: 41:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $360
Points: 19
Website
Western Governors University’s 13 course master of science in educational leadership online works on a competency-based system, rather than a credit-based one, allowing students to receive transfer credit through testing for prior experience and on the job training. The school uses these “competency units” to progress students through the program. The online MS in educational leadership offered by Western Governors University is comprised of coursework in the areas of school law, inclusivity, and evidence-based principles, for example.
#21 – Missouri State University-Springfield
Springfield, Missouri
MSEd in Elementary Principal Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $39,300
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $295
Points: 19
Website
Missouri State University’s MSEd in educational administration elementary program online will expect a lot of your cohort. In your first semester you will all undertake foundations and multicultural issues courses, and you will have internships for either future principals or future members of the agencies working with educational leadership. Your likely second semester schedule will include the second half of the internship and instruction related to how to administer instructional programs and how to supervise enhancement programs. By the time you are done you will have done significant “action research” that requires you to assess the likely outcomes of your research and recommendations. For entry into Missouri State University’s online MSEd in elementary principal, you will need a bachelor’s degree, three recommendation letters, proof of teaching skills and certification. Note also that you will self-assess your comfort with technology, which is crucial.
#20 – George Mason University
Fairfax, Virginia
MEd in Educational Leadership Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $59,900
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $907
Points: 20
Website
George Mason University has a masters of education in educational leadership available to those that have baccalaureate degrees. The program features a well-designed system that will improve your awareness of what students and teachers and administrators need and have in common. Particular career options include curriculum specialist, leadership in special education, principal, or possibly if you have the ambition and skill, a path to deanship. The latter likely involves transition into a PhD program, which the MEd does. George Mason University’s online MEd in educational leadership is 30 credits and highlighted as “self-directed” though with careful attention to the needs of distance-learners.
#19 – University of Kentucky
Lexington, Kentucky
Online MEd in Educational Leadership Studies in Teacher Leadership
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $45,100
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $685
Points: 20
Website
The University of Kentucky online master of education in educational leadership studies in teacher leadership seeks to make your professional skills broader and more applicable to a greater variety of positions. The site features the numbers: a likely salary near $66K and nearly sixty thousand postings within the past twelve months. A further focus appears to be attention to the students–of course–with those student outcomes more approachable and improvable with the skills you will attain in the University of Kentucky MEd in educational leadership studies in teacher leadership, which is 100% online. Further, you can develop your specialization in deeper learning, instructional coaching, or even leadership in school technology.
#18 – Montclair State University
Montclair, New Jersey
Online MA in Educational Leadership
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $49,600
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $623.33
Points: 20
Website
The Montclair State University online master of arts in educational leadership utilizes a cohort model where the same group of students pass through the same sequence of classes together. The two year program tackles one course at a time in eight week sessions, two sessions per term, three terms a year. Montclair State University’s MA in educational leadership online features a rolling admissions process that calls for submission of: a thoughtful personal statement, addressing questions listed on the program webpage; a current resume; and a current teaching certificate.
#17 – Indiana University-Bloomington
Bloomington, Indiana
Online MS in Educational Leadership
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $47,700
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $603
Points: 20
Website
Indiana University-Bloomington’s master of science in educational leadership is fully online and carefully attuned to those that must study from afar. Tech support and access to valuable institutional resources such as the renowned library system. Your preparation will be focused on major requirements and then a carefully-advised three course “strand” suited to your skills and interests. Once you graduate, you will find yourself qualified for a range of positions from superintendent to special-needs director. Getting into the online MSEd in educational leadership at Indiana University-Bloomington requires a minimum GPA of 2.75 in your bachelor’s degree.
#16 – Old Dominion University
Norfolk, Virginia
Online MSE in Educational Leadership
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $43,700
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $595
Points: 20
Website
Old Dominion University online master of science in education in educational leadership is made to fit into your already full life. Your development will draw on theory courses as well as field research coursework. Old Dominion University MSE in educational leadership online features a small-school feel for a distance-learning experience, which is in the school’s favor. Also, the department suggests fairly high-end employment options and salary that may belie the intimacy. Most would agree that low six figures is a nice median salary for administrative positions.
#15 – Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, Arizona
Online MEd in Educational Leadership, Community College and Higher Education
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $40,100
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $575
Points: 20
Website
Northern Arizona University online master of education in educational leadership, community college and higher education makes a point of developing your core knowledge and skills with the strongest grounding in current theory available. Also important to the program is the sharpening of your rhetorical and digital communication skills. Northern Arizona University MEd in educational leadership, community college and higher education online has the following position possibilities in mind for you once you graduate: community college leadership; local governmental leadership; entrepreneurship in non-traditional learning contexts; training other teachers and administrators. To get into the 30-credit program, you will need a completed bachelor’s with a 3.0 GPA.
#14 – Angelo State University
San Angelo, Texas
Online MEd in Educational Administration
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $40,200
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $532.95
Points: 20
Website
Angelo State University features a master of education in educational administration that is fashioned to prepare you to try for your principal certification. You will reach that goal by better understanding how to not only make reasoned judgment related to your responsibilities as an educational professional leader, but you will also be trained in how to make the case for your increasingly expert opinion. Part of this preparation will make you better aware of how organizations are structured and how they can best be managed. The fully online MEd in educational administration available through Angelo State University expects you to have earned a four-year degree for which you maintained at least a 2.75 GPA.
#13 – Nicholls State University
Thibodaux, Louisiana
Online MEd in Educational Leadership
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $37,500
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $385
Points: 20
Website
The Nicholls State University online master of education in educational leadership expects you to best develop your skills in a direct, local environment. To get into the program you will need to have sustained a 2.5 GPA in your final two years of your completed undergraduate degree. A number of concentrations are available for you and your eventual cohort, which means you will need to complete core courses in educational research, ethical leadership, and a history and philosophy course of American education that grounds you in how we find ourselves in today’s educational struggles and successes. Nicholls State University MEd in educational leadership online features school-specific scholarships available several times per year for education students.
#12 – Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, Georgia
MEd in Educational Leadership Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $41,300
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $383
Points: 20
Website
Kennesaw State University’s online master of education in educational leadership is 36 hours, and the school expects you can complete yours in around 24 months. To do so, you should know that the program expects you to increase your level of professional skill. Recommended areas to consider building a career include non-traditional areas such as charter schools and private industry. Kennesaw State University’s MEd in Educational Leadership notes that two potential concentrations–leadership in urban schools and leading independent and charter schools–are available completely online.
#11 – Emporia State University
Emporia, Kansas
Online MS in Educational Administration
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $37,100
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $312
Points: 20
Website
The Emporia State University master of science in educational administration is available 100% online. The school has created this program to prepare you for leadership positions in public as well as corporate leadership. Your 36-hour degree is designed to take six semesters over twenty-four months. Please note that while the degree is online, if you choose Coaching for Performance as a concentration, you will need to do some face-to-face study and training. Emporia State University’s MS in educational administration highlights the possibility of completion in a year. Upon graduation, you will be qualified to certify for Tier 1 Leadership.
#10 – Fort Hays State University
Hays, Kansas
Online MS in Educational Administration – Building Principal
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $38,200
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $287.75
Points: 20
Website
Fort Hays State University’s online master of science in educational administration – building principal is a 36-credit degree designed to prepare you for your licensure in leadership. To get in you will need to score well on the chart provided by the school’s site, including your GPA during your most recent 60 credits, years of experience, your teacher license and transcripts, two recommendations, and your personal statement. Claiming extensive flexibility, Fort Hays State University MS in educational administration – building principal online features four, eight, or sixteen week semester courses, including summers and internship work. Note that before you can graduate you will be assembling a Building Leadership Practicum ePortfolio and comprehensive examinations.
#9 – Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
University Park, Pennsylvania
Online MEd in Educational Leadership
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $50,100
Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $924
Points: 21
Website
Pennsylvania State University’s 30-credit online master of education in educational leadership takes advantage of the school’s highly-developed distance-learning environment. You can choose your blend of available tools to suit your schedule and tendencies. Also due to the regular expansion of world-class online support, you will have non-stop tech-support. Pennsylvania State University MEd in educational leadership online notes that the university is Act-48-approved, so coursework counts as hours of professional development. If you have a military background, a number of advantages are available to you, starting with fee waivers and grant-in-aid.
#8 – Kansas State University
Manhattan, Kansas
MS in Educational Leadership Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $45,600
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $574.20
Points: 21
Website
Kansas State University has developed an online master of science degree in educational leadership that focuses on not just the requirements for teaching professionals but also the coursework and practical training that prepares for the increasingly diverse and complex state of education. The department has planned for the changing expectations of distance-learners by blending videoconferencing, synchronous and asynchronous communication, and well-developed technical support. The online MS educational leadership at Kansas State University suggests likely careers as primary or secondary school principals, teacher leaders, and superintendents.
#7 – Ohio Dominican University
Columbus, Ohio
MEd in Educational Leadership Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $41K
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $538
Points: 21
Website
Ohio Dominican University’s master of education in educational leadership is fully online and has professionals with full schedules. The school appears to recreate the in-person experience of learning by having live settings for students from afar. Suggested career paths include education administrator positions that approach near six-figure salaries. To ground you in the theories and practices of the field, you will take courses such as accountability and organizational management, and all in your cohort will need to take the orientation that includes thorough self-assessment, understanding feedback, and looking at case studies. Requirements for entry into Ohio Dominican University’s MEd in educational leadership online include a thorough description of your plans, a fuller essay on your thinking and beliefs regarding how to improve schools, and two letters of reference.
#6 – Bridgewater State University
Bridgewater, Massachusetts
Online MEd in Educational Leadership
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $45,300
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $475.25
Points: 21
Website
Bridgewater State University’s online master of education in educational leadership follows closely the cohort ethos in structuring the experience of distance-learners. If accepted to this cohort style program, you and your peers will be prepared for the practicum via the thoroughly-qualified professors with academic and professional experience to share with you and your fellow students. You will also share common coursework the introduces you to how to be a leader and manage reform in school settings. More pragmatic coursework includes how to apply research to actual school settings. Schedule accommodation includes 4-week intensive courses and weekend-friendly courses. The online MEd in educational leadership at Bridgewater State University is an intense but valuable thirty credits.
#5 – University of Nebraska at Kearney
Kearney, Nebraska
Online MAE in School Principalship PK-8
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $41,300
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $435
Points: 21
Website
The University of Nebraska at Kearney online master of arts in education in school principalship, PK-8 offers to prepare you for positions from superintendent to principal to educational specialist. The school has carefully adapted an online program with round-the-clock IT support for Box, Eduroam, and other services via myBLUE, which is the portal system for students and faculty. Of course, the state’s full academic library system is available. The University of Nebraska at Kearney MAE in school principalship, PK-8 online prominently displays that a number of scholarships are available yearly.
#4 – Georgia College & State University
Milledgeville, Georgia
Online MEd in Educational Leadership
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $40,500
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $288
Points: 21
Website
The online master of education in educational leadership Georgia College & State University expects you to be licensed, currently teaching, and ambitious enough to take the steps toward being a principal or similar leader in education. You will need two strong letters of reference, a completed bachelor’s degree with a 2.75 GPA, and you must have at least attempted the Educator Ethics for leadership test. Georgia College & State University’s online MEd in Educational Leadership takes only a year to complete if you study full-time.
#3 – Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global
Marion, Indiana
Online MEd in Teacher Leadership
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $49,900
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $490
Points: 22
Website
The 33-credit Indiana Wesleyan University online master of education in teacher leadership stresses student-friendliness having developed a cohort system, a simpler once-only registration system, and a fast-track option that will take about ten months to complete. You and your peers will take coursework that define and apply the key concepts of being culturally competent, a change agent and a collaborative coach, all in a professional setting. If you are going into a secondary position or into an elementary position, Indiana Wesleyan University MEd in teacher leadership online will have your curriculum designed for you for either major.
#2 – Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Online MEd in Educational Leadership
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $50,100
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $481
Points: 22
Website
Louisiana State University online master of education in educational leadership stresses an internationally-admired faculty well-adapted to the distance-learning experience. To be considered for admission, you will need to include, among the more standard evidence of your qualifications: strong sets of reference letters from a co-professional and a principal; evidence of certification and highly-rated teaching experience; evidence of mentorship. Note that the GRE is not a requirement. and Louisiana State University MEd in educational leadership online notes that you can fulfill your studies in fifteen months.
#1 – Fitchburg State University
Fitchburg, Massachusetts
MEd in Educational Leadership Management Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $45,700
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Hourly Tuition Rate: $372
Points: 23
Website
The carefully-developed online master of education in educational leadership management offered by Fitchburg State University has expediency as one of the primary goals–it is up to you to select the sped-up version or a schedule that suits your current busy career. Either way, you are to be prepared for whatever may come to you as a graduate. You will study how to put out potential political, legal, not to mention departmental and personnel fires and how to build and foster relationships. The department at Fitchburg State University that houses the MEd in educational leadership management online states that it should take as little as a year to complete the 33-credit program. According to the school site, you do not need to have a teaching license to get in.
TED Staff
February 2020
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