Best Online Master's in Education Administration

Updated March 3, 2023

A master's in education administration prepares graduates for jobs such as school principal, K-12 school administrator, and higher education administrator.

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Master's in Education Administration

School administrators oversee K-12 schools, while higher education administrators oversee student services and academic programs at colleges and universities. Graduates who earn an online master's in education administration enjoy lucrative and in-demand career opportunities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that school principals earn a median salary of over $96,000 per year and projects the creation of 11,000 new principal jobs between 2018 and 2028. Additionally, the BLS reports that higher education administrators earn a median salary of over $95,000 per year, with a 4% projected job growth through 2029.

What Is a Master's of Education Administration?

A master's of education administration prepares graduates for jobs such as school principal, K-12 school administrator, and higher education administrator. Students take classes on topics like school leadership, instructional assessment, and school financing. Some programs offer electives or concentrations in areas like higher education administration, special education leadership, and differentiated curriculum planning.

Many educational administration programs incorporate an internship or practicum to give students hands-on experience in the field. Online programs typically let students meet practicum requirements at an approved site near their home.

Featured Educational Administration Programs

The Best Online Master's of Educational Administration Programs

#1 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

Texas A&M University

  • College Station, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its campus in College Station, Texas A&M University offers an online master's in educational administration. The M.Ed. in educational administration program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and higher salary potential. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.

The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of educational administration. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in educational administration or a related field.

Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.

Texas A&M University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Admission Rate: 58%

Total Online Master's Programs: 38

Program Name: Master of education in educational administration, emphasis in preK-12 educational leadership

Graduate Tuition In State: $6,677

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,700

Average Tuition
In-state
$7,941
Out-of-state
$34,190
Retention Rate
93%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
68,726
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
14% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

  • Champaign, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers an online master's in educational administration. The M.Ed. in educational administration and leadership program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.

The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. Applicants without a background in educational administration may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.

Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Admission Rate: 59%

Total Online Master's Programs: 30

Program Name: Master of education in educational administration and leadership

Graduate Tuition In State: $14,997

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,404

Average Tuition
In-state
$14,188
Out-of-state
$33,127
Retention Rate
93%
Admission Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
51,605
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

Mississippi College

  • Clinton, MS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Graduate students seeking an online educational administration degree can enroll in the master's program at Mississippi College, located in Clinton. The master of education in educational leadership program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. After completing a master's degree, candidates often advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.

The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The master's program builds on prior educational administration experience gained during a bachelor's program.

Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.

Mississippi College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Admission Rate: 42%

Total Online Master's Programs: 23

Program Name: Master of education in educational leadership

Graduate Tuition In State: $11,250

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,250

Average Tuition
In-state
$17,550
Out-of-state
$17,550
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
42%
Students Enrolled
4,733
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
56% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

Western Carolina University

  • Cullowhee, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its campus in Cullowhee, North Carolina, Western Carolina University offers an online master's in school administration. The master's in school administration program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.

The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches to educational leadership. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in educational administration or a related field.

Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.

Western Carolina University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Admission Rate: 69%

Total Online Master's Programs: 10

Program Name: Master's in school administration

Graduate Tuition In State: $4,435

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $14,842

Average Tuition
In-state
$1,000
Out-of-state
$5,000
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
12,167
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

Southern New Hampshire University

  • Manchester, NH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The online master's in educational administration program, offered by Southern New Hampshire University from its Manchester campus, ranks as a top program in the field. The master's in higher education administration program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. After earning a master's degree, candidates may also pursue careers in new industries.

The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to educational administration. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in educational administration or a related field.

Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.

Southern New Hampshire University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, nonprofit, four-year

Admission Rate: 88%

Total Online Master's Programs: 22

Program Name: Master's in higher education administration

Graduate Tuition In State: $18,810

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,810

Average Tuition
In-state
$30,756
Out-of-state
$30,756
Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
113,514
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
94% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#6 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

LeTourneau University

  • Longview, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

LeTourneau University, located in Longview, offers a flexible online master's in educational administration. The master of education in educational administration program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. After earning a master's degree, graduates can also pursue careers in new industries.

The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on educational administration. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without an educational administration background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.

Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.

LeTourneau University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Admission Rate: 45%

Total Online Master's Programs: 13

Program Name: Master of education in educational administration

Graduate Tuition In State: $18,618

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,618

Average Tuition
In-state
$30,520
Out-of-state
$30,520
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
3,150
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
60% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

George Washington University

  • Washington, DC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

George Washington University enrolls master's students in its online educational administration program. The master's in educational leadership and administration program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates often pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.

The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on educational administration. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. Applicants with prior experience in educational administration or a related field often meet the admission requirements.

Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.

George Washington University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Admission Rate: 41%

Total Online Master's Programs: 50

Program name: Master's in educational leadership and administration

Graduate Tuition In State: $31,770

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $31,770

Average Tuition
In-state
$54,453
Out-of-state
$54,453
Retention Rate
92%
Admission Rate
41%
Students Enrolled
27,814
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
22% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#8 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

Tarleton State University

  • Stephenville, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Graduate students seeking an online educational administration degree can enroll in the master's program at Tarleton State University, located in Stephenville. The M.Ed. in educational administration program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.

The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to educational administration. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. The admission requirements include a background in educational administration or a related field.

Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build hands-on experience and professional connections.

Tarleton State University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Admission Rate: 56%

Total Online Master's Programs: 10

Program Name: M.Ed. in educational administration with a higher education leadership concentration

Graduate Tuition In State: $4,137

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,733

Average Tuition
In-state
$4,526
Out-of-state
$14,296
Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
13,166
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

Oklahoma State University

  • Stillwater, OK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The online master's in educational administration program, offered by Oklahoma State University from its Stillwater campus, ranks as a top program. The MS in educational leadership studies program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and positions with increased earning potential. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.

The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in educational administration or a related field.

Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.

Oklahoma State University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Admission Rate: 70%

Total Online Master's Programs: 25

Program Name: Educational leadership studies, MS

Graduate Tuition In State: $5,531

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,034

Average Tuition
In-state
$5,366
Out-of-state
$20,877
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
24,079
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

Southern Wesleyan University

  • Central, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Southern Wesleyan University, located in Central, offers a flexible online master's in educational administration. The online master of education in administration and supervision program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.

The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in educational administration. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The admission requirements include a background in educational administration or a related field.

Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.

Southern Wesleyan University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Admission Rate: 35%

Total Online Master's Programs: 4

Program Name: Online master of education in administration and supervision

Graduate Tuition In State: $10,170

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,170

Average Tuition
In-state
$24,926
Out-of-state
$24,926
Retention Rate
69%
Admission Rate
35%
Students Enrolled
1,430
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#11 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

Webster University

  • Saint Louis, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The online master's degree in educational administration at Webster University, located in Saint Louis, offers high academic quality. The MA in educational leadership and administration program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.

The master's curriculum explores educational administration research and methodologies. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants with prior experience in educational administration or a related field often meet the admission requirements.

Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.

Webster University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Admission Rate: 57%

Total Online Master's Programs: 31

Program Name: MA in educational leadership and administration

Graduate Tuition In State: $13,500

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,500

Average Tuition
In-state
$28,500
Out-of-state
$28,500
Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
9,860
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#12 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The online master's degree in educational administration at Liberty University, located in Lynchburg, offers high academic quality. The master's in education administration and supervision program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.

The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in educational administration. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. Applicants who majored in educational administration or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.

Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.

Liberty University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Admission Rate: 51%

Total Online Master's Programs: 67

Program Name: Master's in education administration and supervision

Graduate Tuition In State: $7,980

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,980

Average Tuition
In-state
$15,417
Out-of-state
$15,417
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
85,586
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#13 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

New Mexico State University

  • Las Cruces, NM
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Las Cruces, New Mexico State University offers an online master's in educational administration. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of arts in educational administration program. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.

The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants without a degree in educational administration or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.

Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.

New Mexico State University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Admission Rate: 55%

Total Online Master's Programs: 16

Program Name: Master of arts in educational administration

Graduate Tuition In State: $4,844

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,834

Average Tuition
In-state
$5,875
Out-of-state
$21,864
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
14,296
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#14 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

Cairn University

  • Langhorne, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The online master's in educational administration program at Cairn University, located in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, prioritizes flexibility. The educational leadership and administration MS program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.

The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on educational administration. Learners prepare for the job market by pursuing a specialty through electives. The admission requirements include a background in educational administration or a related field.

Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities both hands-on experience and professional connections.

Cairn University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Admission Rate: 83%

Total Online Master's Programs: 12

Program Name: Educational leadership and administration MS

Graduate Tuition In State: $12,762

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,762

Average Tuition
In-state
$28,328
Out-of-state
$28,328
Retention Rate
84%
Admission Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
1,221
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
23% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#15 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

Southern Arkansas University

  • Magnolia, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Based in Magnolia, Southern Arkansas University hosts a top-rated online master's in educational administration. The master of education in educational leadership in administration and supervision program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.

The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of Educational Administration. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in Educational Administration before applying to the program.

Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.

Southern Arkansas University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Admission Rate: 65%

Total Online Master's Programs: 13

Program Name: Master of education in educational leadership in administration and supervision

Graduate Tuition In State: $5,040

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,920

Average Tuition
In-state
$6,420
Out-of-state
$10,920
Retention Rate
67%
Admission Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
4,475
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#16 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

Concordia University, Nebraska

  • Seward, NE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Based in Seward, Concordia University, Nebraska hosts a top-rated online master's in educational administration. The M.Ed. in educational administration with a principal endorsement strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.

The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches to educational administration. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in educational administration or a related field.

Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.

Concordia University, Nebraska at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Admission Rate: 78%

Total Online Master's Programs: 16

Program Name: M.Ed. in educational administration with a principal endorsement

Graduate Tuition In State: $8,650

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,650

Average Tuition
In-state
$32,890
Out-of-state
$32,890
Retention Rate
82%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
2,703
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
27% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#17 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

Ball State University

  • Muncie, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The master's in educational administration program at Ball State University, located in Muncie, offers a flexible online format. The master's in educational administration and supervision program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.

The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in educational administration. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. Applicants without an educational administration background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.

Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their community. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.

Ball State University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Admission Rate: 77%

Total Online Master's Programs: 30

Program Name: Master's in educational administration and supervision

Graduate Tuition In State: $8,850

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,954

Average Tuition
In-state
$9,358
Out-of-state
$26,138
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
22,443
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#18 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

Northwestern College

  • Orange City, IA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The online master's in educational administration degree at Northwestern College, located in Orange City, Iowa, prioritizes flexibility. The M.Ed. in educational administration program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.

The master's curriculum explores educational administration research and methodologies. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants with prior experience in educational administration or a related field often meet the admission requirements.

Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.

Northwestern College at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Admission Rate: 70%

Total Online Master's Programs: 3

Program Name: M.Ed. in educational administration with a principal endorsement

Graduate Tuition In State: $6,030

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $6,030

Average Tuition
In-state
$32,100
Out-of-state
$32,100
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
1,412
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
37% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#19 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

Concordia University Wisconsin

  • Mequon, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The master's in educational administration degree at Concordia University Wisconsin, located in Mequon, uses a flexible distance learning format. The master of science in educational administration program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.

The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a background in educational administration may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.

Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.

Concordia University Wisconsin at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Admission Rate: 64%

Total Online Master's Programs: 25

Program Name: Master of science in education - educational administration

Graduate Tuition In State: $11,052

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,052

Average Tuition
In-state
$30,060
Out-of-state
$30,060
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
5,777
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#20 Best Online Master’s in Education Administration

Prairie View A&M University

  • Prairie View, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Graduate students seeking an online degree can enroll in the M.Ed. in educational administration program at Prairie View A&M University. The program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. With a master's degree, candidates often advance their current career or more into new career paths.

The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on educational administration. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants without a background in educational administration may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.

Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.

Prairie View A&M University at a Glance:

Type of school: Public, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 80%

Total Online Master's Programs: 3

Program Name: Master of education in educational administration

Graduate Tuition In State: $4,733

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,693

Average Tuition
In-state
$7,043
Out-of-state
$21,911
Retention Rate
66%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
8,940
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
20% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Best Online Master's

Online Master's in Educational Administration Programs Ranking Guidelines

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

Our Methodology

Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.

Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.

While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.

  • Academics
  • Affordability
  • Online Enrollment

Data Sources

The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.

The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.

Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.

Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology

About Our Ranking Factors

Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.

Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.

We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.

Academics - 75%

Affordability - 15%

Online Enrollment - 10%

In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.

If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.

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What Else Can I Expect From an Online Master's in Educational Administration Program?

Courses vary by program, but we outline several common master's in education administration classes below.

Education Administration Curriculum

Certifications and Licenses a Master's in Education Administration Prepares For

Many education administration careers require a license. For example, principals generally need to complete a master's degree and hold a state-issued license to qualify for job opportunities. However, most higher education administrators do not need a license. Licensure requirements vary by state, so prospective school administrators should research the requirements in the state where they intend to work.

Choosing an Online Master's in Educational Administration Program

When researching potential online master's in education administration programs, students should consider factors such as a program's cost, accreditation status, format, and available specializations. Typically, public institutions cost less than private institutions, but students at both types of schools can take advantage of financial aid opportunities to help offset education costs.

Additionally, students may need to attend an accredited school to qualify for professional licensure or certification. For example, many states require individuals to hold an accredited degree to qualify for a principal or administrator license.

The length of an education administration master's degree track varies depending on the program and a student's enrollment status. Most programs take two years of full-time study to complete, although some schools offer accelerated timelines. Students should also consider a program's format. Asynchronous programs do not require set login times, giving students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional responsibilities.

Finally, many programs offer specializations in areas like principalship and higher education administration. Students should ensure they choose a program with focus areas that align with their career goals.

Accreditation for Online Master's in Educational Administration Degrees

Prospective students should ensure they attend an accredited school. Several education administration careers require a license, including school principal jobs. In most states, licensure candidates need an accredited graduate degree. Similarly, many employers prefer candidates with an accredited degree.

Schools may hold regional or national accreditation, with regional accreditation generally considered the more prestigious of the two. Regional accreditation is typically awarded to nonprofit, degree-granting schools that meet high academic standards.

Programs within a school may also receive specialized accreditation. Programmatic accreditation applies to specific programs, including teacher preparation and education administration programs. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation grants programmatic accreditation to education administration programs.

Educational Administration Careers

Graduates with a master's degree in education administration enjoy diverse career opportunities. We cover several common jobs for graduates below.

Instructional Coordinators

Instructional coordinators -- also called curriculum specialists -- oversee a school's or district's curriculum and teaching standards. They develop educational materials, organize teacher training events and workshops, and analyze student performance data to make curriculum improvements. Some instructional coordinators specialize in an area such as special education or English as a second language.

Median Salary: $64,450 Projected Job Growth (2019-2029): 6%

School Principals

School principals oversee the operations of K-12 schools. They implement curriculum standards, manage teachers and staff, and oversee the school's budget. Principals also hire teachers and assess their performance. In many schools, principals implement standards set by the district and coordinate with the superintendent and school board to improve the school. Principals often need a state school administrator or principal license.

Median Salary: $95,310 Projected Job Growth (2019-2029): 4%

Higher Education Administrators

Higher education administrators manage student services and academic departments at colleges and universities. They may specialize in several areas, such as admissions and student affairs. Higher education administrators in admissions offices may set targets for how many students to admit, conduct outreach to encourage student applications, and oversee staff members. In student affairs, higher education administrators advise students on academic issues, lead programs, and schedule services.

Median Salary: $94,340 Projected Job Growth (2019-2029): 7%

Popular Questions About Master's in Education Administration

What is a master's in education administration?

Earning a master's in education administration prepares students for leadership positions in K-12 schools and colleges and universities.

What can you do with a master's in education administration?

Graduates with a master's in education administration can work as school principals, higher education administrators, and school administrators. They may hold the job title of dean, director, or vice principal.

How long does it take to get a master's in education administration?

Completing a master's in education administration program generally takes two years of full-time study, though some programs offer accelerated timelines.

How do I become an education administrator?

Many education administrator jobs require a master's degree from an accredited program and a state-issued license. For example, principals and other administrators at public schools often need a license.

How much do education administrators make?

Salaries for education administrators vary based on their specific role. School principals earn around $95,000, while higher education administrators earn a median salary of $94,000 per year.

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