Best Online Master's In Educational Administration Degrees

Overview

Lamar University, headquartered in Beaumont, TX, offers an online M.Ed. in Education Administration designed for service-oriented individuals aspiring to become principals or superintendents. The school offers dozens of programs within the College of Education and Human Development. It prepares educators to work at all levels, from preschool to college. The school has partnerships that enable students to be successful at any point in their careers.

Program Features

This program is the largest fully-online graduate program offered at Lamar and prepares students with prerequisite coursework in human resources, instructional design, and leadership. It even provides a pathway to certification for interested candidates. Lamar requires 30 total hours of study for degree completion. Students will take a range of classes, including studies in:

School/Community Relations Curriculum Management Leadership for Accountability Human Resources

Notables

Lamar offers over 100 programs of study and enrolls nearly 15,000 students a year. This fast-growing campus has surprisingly low student-to-faculty ratios and small class sizes, enabling all students to develop lasting connections with faculty and peers even when learning from afar. With a low tuition rate of just $705 for each three-hour course, enrolling at Lamar is a no-brainer.

Overview

Located in idyllic Morgantown, West Virginia, the online program in Higher Education Administration is ranked as one of the best of its kind. This program emphasizes the development of leadership skills as well as the acquisition of fundamental knowledge in topics like student affairs and academic management. Each student is given the opportunity to create a personalized program of study, working closely with a faculty advisor to do so.

Program Features

The curriculum consists of 30 credits, with an ample amount of time dedicated to research. Students will be given the opportunity to pursue statistical methods and program evaluation, as well as to explore topics of personal interest, such as higher education finance or diversity issues. Required courses include:

History of Higher Education Higher Education Administration Contemporary Issues in Higher Education College Student Development

Notables

This program is one of the most career-focused on the list, requiring candidates to initiate and undergo a placement at an internship site, create a portfolio and journal, and to attend monthly online group meetings. Students may choose to attend classes in a fully online or hybrid setting, with most students completing their studies in around two years.

Overview

Louisiana State is one of the state s premier research institutions. With over 30,000 students around the country, the university is one of the best at training future educators and administrators. The online Master s of Arts in Education with a Higher Education concentration is designed for candidates seeking to work in any aspect of college and university administration, such as admissions, financial aid, or advising.

Program Features

Only 36 credit-hours are required for graduation, allowing students to complete their studies in as little as 15 months. Each course lasts seven weeks, and each student must also complete a 14-week internship in some aspect of educational administration. Other required classes include:

Foundations of Higher Education Understanding and Applying Research in Education College Students in the United States Assessment and Evaluation in Higher Education

Notables

One of the major perks of studying online at Louisiana State University is that all students pay the same low tuition rate, regardless of residency. At just $481 per credit-hour, this program is a bargain that cannot be passed up. Candidates receive extensive training in topics such as Greek affairs, student activities, academic support, athletics, and more, giving them the freedom necessary to pursue work in any higher education division upon graduation.

Overview

As the state of Mississippi s oldest higher education institution Mississippi College knows a thing or two about training professionals in Education Administration. With a focus on administrative theory and practice, the program is just one of many integrative graduate programs offered entirely online and based out of the school s Clinton, MS campus.

Program Features

This hands-on program, which includes two practicum experiences in an actual higher education setting, takes most students fewer than 18 months to complete. Courses are offered asynchronously, utilizing technologies such as Moodle, Blackboard, and online proctoring services. Students will take classes such as:

Research Methods and Procedures Basic Effective Leadership Law and Higher Education Student Development Theories/Ethics and Inquiry

Notables

Students at Mississippi College have access to dozens of resources, enjoying the same benefits experienced by on-campus students. Digital learners receive access to research databases, librarian chat services, online proctoring, and online libraries. Students are given great flexibility in designing their coursework and may study during the summer, part-time, and within an entirely online setting.

Overview

As one of the largest universities of its kind in the country, Michigan State, headquartered in East Lansing, MI, educates over 50,000 students a year both on-campus and online. The Master s in Education Administration is available as a fully online program, as an on-campus program, and in a hybrid format. Students must attend campus four times per semester, but the school provides a variety of satellite campuses to make the journey more convenient for students from all over the United States.

Program Features

This online program is one of the most innovative and advanced of its kind, incorporating a variety of instructional technologies to help students succeed. Candidates will attend classes through a combination of live meetings, asynchronous coursework, and hands-on activities. Sample courses include:

Leading Teacher Learning Special Populations International Education Leadership for Urban Education

Notables

This program leads to administration certification within the state of Michigan and allows students to take classes back-to-back to maximize the learning experience. Over 25 different scholarships are available to students in this program, helping to offset the cost of this already-inexpensive degree program. With 30 credits required to graduate, it takes most students about two or three years of part-time work to complete their studies.

Overview

Concordia University has nine locations throughout the state of Wisconsin. Among them, the online campus is one of the most popular. The Department of Graduate Education operates a Master of Science in Education-Educational Administration that helps students obtain the skills necessary to be successful in any educational environment. This flexible program can be started at any time, with an optional accelerated component available.

Program Features

This program, which requires between 33 and 39 credits for completion, prepares students for enriching careers as principals, counselors, and educational administrators. Both full- and part-time options are available, with required classes including:

Leadership for Change Educational Governance and Administration School Business Administration Curriculum Leadership

Notables

Concordia is unique in that it offers students Preferred Educational Partnerships benefits. Students from certain cohorts are eligible to receive a 24 percent tuition discount. Individuals currently working in Christian K-12 schools can receive an additional 25 percent discount, making this an affordable option for students seeking certification in the state of Wisconsin as well as those studying from other locations.

Overview

Fort Hays State University, located in Hays, KS, is a public institution with over a century s worth of demonstrated success. This medium-sized school enrolls around 12,000 students per year and hosts affordable in-state tuition of just $14,832 per year even less for state residents. The forward-thinking Master of Science in Educational Administration is designed for budding Building Principals. Two options, both a degree and non-degree endorsement program, are available.

Program Features

This 36 credit-hour program helps students learn how to deal with prospective challenges related to leading a school and addressing the needs of students and faculty. No thesis is required, and students can be at any stage in their careers to pursue this degree. Courses can be taken in four, eight, or sixteen-week segments, with required courses including:

Innovative Technology Integration Educational Research School Law Supervision and Evaluation of Personnel

Notables

This entrepreneurial university combines excellent opportunities for hands-on learning with the wisdom of mentor teaches. Professors help students graduate with the skills and confidence necessary to land top jobs. Over 95 percent of Fort Hays students find a job or are enrolled in further studies upon graduation. As a result, the school is ranked as one of the best Regional Universities in the Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.

Overview

With over 22,000 students around the world, Ball State Teacher s College is hailed as one of the best in the country. Students may choose from on-campus or online educator preparation programs, including the Master of Arts in Education in Administration and Supervision. This program, the largest principal preparation program in the state, gives students the education and credentials necessary for principal licensure in the state of Indiana.

Program Features

In addition to 36 credits of coursework, each student must also complete a two-semester internship at an elementary or high school of his or her own choosing. Most students can complete the degree in fewer than 20 months. Required classes, all of which can be completed asynchronously, include:

Human Resource Development Educational Decision Making Supervision of Instruction Educational Finance and Ethics

Notables

Nearly 50 percent of all Ball State students take classes online. As a result, the university offers extensive online resources, including digital access to a writing center, tutoring, tutorials, library, and research services. Ranked as one of the country s Top Public Schools by U.S. News and World Report, Ball State has a small student-to-faculty ratio of just 14:1.

Overview

Founded in 1879, Sam Houston State is a public university in a rural setting. With over 20,000 students and 140 different degree programs, it is a community-centered organization with high research activity. Sam Houston State University s Master of Education in Administration is designed for individuals seeking Principal Certification. The university is one of the most wired universities in the country, and as a result, offers online students some of the best educational technologies out of any school on this list.

Program Features

Degrees at Sam Houston State are surprisingly versatile, allowing candidates to earn a degree by accumulating course credit-hours from courses earned in-person, online, or from another university. The courses are fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Students will take classes such as:

Administration and Organization of Public Schools Communication for Educational Leaders Program Evaluation for School Improvement Culturally Proficient School Leadership

Notables

This program was ranked as one of the best, according to U.S. News and World Report s list of the Best Online Graduate Education Programs. Its alumni tend to earn high starting salaries, benefiting from a small student-to-faculty ratio of just 23:1 while enrolled in their studies. Degrees earned online from Sam Houston are identical to those earned on campus. Final transcripts do not indicate that the degree was earned remotely, giving graduates an extra advantage.

Overview

Founded in 1930, Old Dominion University is an urban university with a commitment to educating students from all backgrounds. The university enrolls over 25,000 students from 116 countries and including students from every state in the United States. A wide variety of graduate degree programs are offered within the Darden College of Education, most notably the online Master of Science in Education in Educational Leadership-Administration and Supervision K-12.

Program Features

The degree requires 30 total credit-hours for degree completion, including 120 internship hours that are embedded within the program s coursework. Classes are live, regularly scheduled, and can be accessed from any location. Courses are cohort-based, meaning students take classes with the same group of peers throughout the duration of their studies. Required classes include:

Leadership and Management for School Improvement Accountability and Organizational Improvement Strategic Communication and External Relations Learning Theories and Professional Development

Notables

The school is famed for its exceptional faculty, with 31 of the university s staff named as some of the best in the state of Virginia. The university has won multiple accolades for its dedication to fostering personal growth through leadership, service, and extracurriculars. Old Dominion is one of the largest providers of distance education in the entire country and offers over 5,600 practical experiences, study abroad programs, volunteer and entrepreneurial programs to students every year.

Overview

The University of Southern Mississippi was founded as a teacher s college in 1910. Since then, the school has rapidly expanded, adding hundreds of research opportunities and countless new programs each year. The school enrolls around 14,000 students, many of whom take advantage of the campus exceptional distance learning platform. The M.Ed. in Educational Administration and Supervision is both affordable and convenient and fully accredited through both the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education and the Educational Leadership Constituent Council.

Program Features

The degree requires 34 credits, allowing students to explore topics such as instructional leadership and foundations of school management. Most students will complete internships within local school systems, while others may choose to attend optional on-campus programming. Other popular courses include:

Foundations of School Leadership Leading Diverse School Populations Introduction to Leadership for Organizational Effectiveness Socio-Political Issues and Educational Leadership

Notables

The University of Southern Mississippi offers extensive financial aid and allows online students to pay in-state tuition regardless of where they live. With low tuition of just under $8,000 per year, the affordability of this school can t be beaten. The University of Southern Mississippi is ranked as one of the best National Universities by U.S. News and World Report, with students enjoying a small student-to-faculty ratio of just 17:1.

Overview

Though only one of many schools in the University of South Carolina system, the online school is arguably one of the best at providing high-quality programs to future educators. The Master s in Education Administration is designed for certified teachers and prepares them to work with a diverse student population. Each year, the university educates over 35,000 students, providing online training in an asynchronous format. Students benefit from multiple formats, including video, recorded lectures, and more.

Program Features

All coursework in this program can be completed on an individual student s own schedule. Steep tuition discounts are available for South Carolina educators completing fewer than twelve hours a semester. In addition to two internship courses, required classes include:

Introduction to Exceptional Children Human Growth and Development Classroom Assessment Introduction to Research in Education

Notables

With over 200 different graduate degrees, the University of South Carolina knows a thing or two about preparing professionals for lifelong success. Online students pay the same tuition as in-state students, and with discounts for current educators as well as other scholarship opportunities. Kiplinger s and Forbes ranked this globally-recognized university as one of the best values in higher education in the entire country.

Overview

With a whopping 85 percent of its students enrolled online, Concordia is an expert in providing quality distance education programs. This private Christian university was founded in 1894 and operates several campuses throughout the country. The 36-credit program in Educational Administration is designed for aspiring K-12 principals and is a great choice for current certified K-12 teachers.

Program Features

This program comes equipped with an optional dual certification track, allowing candidates to take an additional nine credit-hours to receive certification in both elementary and secondary administration. Accelerated coursework is also available, all of which is offered through the Blackboard distance learning system. Required classes include:

Contemporary Thought in Education Research Evaluation and Design Psychological Foundations of Teaching and Learning Curriculum Design and Evaluation

Notables

At just $425 per credit-hour, Concordia is an affordable option for any student. Students receive an average $20,000 of institutional scholarships each year, helping to lower that cost further. Classes start every eight weeks, and a hybrid option is available to allow interested students to study on-campus as well. With a student-to-faculty ratio of just 13:1, Concordia is a smart option for students seeking greater interaction with their instructors and peers.

Overview

If you are seeking a responsive, hands-on degree that will enable you to pursue a rewarding career as a principal, superintendent, or other school administrator, Angelo State University has the program for you. This public school, located in San Angelo, TX, stresses the importance of personal contact and career advising and is one of the best schools on this list at fostering nurturing relationships between faculty and students.

Program Features

Students at Angelo State have the opportunity to engage in extensive research and faculty-mentored projects. All courses are offered in eight-week chunks, each existing entirely online. Most students can finish their studies within two years of full-time coursework, as well as through experiencing extensive hands-on work through internship and practicum opportunities. Required classes include:

Social and Cultural Influences Tests and Measurements Legal and Ethical Principles Professional Writing for Educators

Notables

With tuition starting at just $8,000 for in-state students, Angelo State is a financially savvy pick. The school offers gift aid to 73 percent of its students. The school also offers over 100 different student organizations, such as Kappa Delta Pi, the ASU Student Reading Council, and the Texas State Teachers Association, to help students make the most of their time in school. As a result, the university is ranked as one of the best Regional Universities West by U.S. News and World Report.

Overview

The University of Oklahoma in Norman, OK is well-known for its commitment to conducting world-class research. However, this school offers much more. The Jeannine Rainbolt College of Education, accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, houses a spectacular 36-credit Master s Education in Educational Administration, Curriculum, and Supervision. This program is cohort-based and leads to principal certification in the state of Oklahoma.

Program Features

While most classes in this program can be taken online, the curriculum is supplemented by once-a-month classes on the Norman campus. Thesis and non-thesis options are available, but most students will be required to complete a comprehensive portfolio. Each student also conducts a principal internship in their local school. Other course requirements include:

Organization of Education Financial Leadership in Schools School Level Instructional Leadership Inquiry for Performance Improvement

Notables

This program emphasizes student networking through its innovative cohort model. Students are encouraged to interact with the course material and with their peers through this model, enjoying the attention of expert university faculty with a student-to-faculty ratio of just 17:1. As a result, the university has a high retention rate, with an average student satisfaction rate of 86 percent much higher than average.

Overview

The University of Houston Clear Lake may be a young institution, founded only in 1974 as a public institution, but it s a classic choice for professionals seeking training in educational administration. With 46 different graduate majors, as well as countless undergraduate and doctoral degrees, this school offers diversity and quality in its academic choices. The Master of Science in Educational Management is an innovative degree program for aspiring leaders.

Program Features

Courses in this program are offered in both traditional and hybrid formats. This allows candidates to become effective as they gain knowledge and experience in all aspects of educational management. Students will take classes such as:

Applications of Technology Administration of Special Programs The Principal and School Community Relations School Resource Management

Notables

This program is one of only 14 educator preparation programs in the state of Texas to hold accreditation by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. The school has over twenty online-only programs, and a demonstrated track record of success in training distance learners. With tuition starting at just $9,974 per year, this school is an affordable option for any candidate.

Overview

Founded in 1858, Iowa State University is a public institution with a global reputation. With over 100 different academic majors, students have plenty of disciplines from which to choose. The online Master s in Educational Administration can be completed as a Master s of Science or a Master s of Education, allowing students flexibility in how they want to complete their final projects. Candidates may choose from a thesis, non-thesis creative project, or portfolio of student work, but all options lead to initial principal certification.

Program Features

This program includes a whopping 400 hours of supervised clinical experience, requiring candidates to work at both the elementary and secondary levels. The online program is hybrid, including online courses and two on-campus meetings each week. Other classes include:

Principles of Educational Administration Educational Research Supervision for Learning Environments Current Issues in Site-Level Leadership

Notables

Faculty and staff at Iowa State are passionate about learning and teaching, offering a culturally-proficient program for students from all backgrounds. It is ranked as one of the Best Value Schools and Best Colleges for Veterans by U.S. News and World Report and has high student satisfaction ratings with retention rates over 87 percent.

Overview

Located along the idyllic Broad River in Columbia, SC, Columbia College is an accredited Christian college with a history of providing quality degree programs. The Educational Administration degree at Columbia College is one of two tracks within the Master s of Education program, the other being a concentration in Instruction and Learning. Either degree can be completed within as little as two years.

Program Features

This program takes two to four years to complete, with candidates given the option between teaching in K-12 schools, Christian schools, or further academic work. Each course is designed with a Christian educator in mind and incorporates a biblical worldview. Course requirements include:

History and Philosophy of Education Curriculum Development and Instruction Educational Research Authentic Assessment

Notables

This program is one of the most collaborative of its kind, allowing students to utilize real-life situations to develop familiarity with common educational issues. Faculty and staff provide both academic and spiritual support, offering a program that is in line with the requirements of the Association of Christian Schools International. With an international alumni network that is over 18,000 strong among 150 different nations, students have no shortage of professional connections upon graduation.

Overview

With over 25 different campuses around Washington State and the university s home state of California, Brandman offers an impactful online program in Educational Administration. This program is one of many within Brandman s extensive online learning platform, which educates over 12,000 students a year.

Program Features

With a student-to-faculty ratio of just 15:1, students enjoy small class sizes and close attention from dedicated instructors. Best yet, the program is affordable, with over half of all students receiving some kind of financial aid. The program requires 30 credits for graduation, with core coursework including:

Seminar in Learning Theory Seminar in Comparative Education Democracy, Education, and Social Change Research and Evaluation Methods

Notables

Brandman was originally founded to provide education to non-traditional students such as adult learners and Marine Corps military members. Now, the program continues to serve nontraditional students through its 52 undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs. The online campus is top-ranked and is one of the country s most military-friendly schools.

Overview

As one of the country s oldest public institutions, the University of South Dakota is a rural school with big-city diversity. This school offers a fully online Master of Arts in Educational Administration and Leadership that provides flexible scheduling for working adults. It is taught by accessible faculty who ensure that graduates are sought-after candidates in the competitive post-graduation job search environment.

Program Features

This program exists as a combination of field-based experiences and online coursework. Two concentrations are available: one in Pre-K-12 Principal and one in Adult and Higher Education. PK-12 Principal licensure is available for most students upon completion of the principal certification program, with required classes including studies in:

Educational Administration Principal Leadership Instructional Leadership Curriculum Leadership

Notables

The University of South Dakota is well known for providing quality programs and has received top accolades from ranking affiliates such as U.S. News and World Report. The school has been recognized as providing the best High School Counselor programs as well as for being one of the top National Universities and Top Public Schools in the nation. Students enjoy low student-to-faculty ratios on average just 18:1 and experience some of the highest average starting salaries in the nation.

Overview

As a small private institution of just 2,353 students, Tiffin University is committed to providing its students with a close-knit approach to higher education. The Master of Education with a concentration in Higher Education Administration at Tiffin is designed for natural born leaders. The program integrates essential knowledge ranging from human resources to crisis management, all designed in a flexible format for professional learners.

Program Features

With a student-to-faculty ratio of just 14:1, students receive access to dedicated faculty attention that is unrivaled by any other institution of its kind. The university features excellent support services and high employment rates after graduation. Students are required to take classes such as:

Issues in Student Affairs Educational Leadership World History of Education Student Enrollment and Retention

Notables

Tiffin structures its courses so that students enroll in two 7-week terms each semester, allowing maximum flexibility in regards to starting and completing courses. This program is one of the best in the nation, with graduates going on to work in fields such as admissions, financial aid, athletics, and more. It is ranked as one of the best Regional Universities in the Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.

Overview

National University is a young institution, having only opened in 1971, but since its inception, it has educated over 150,000 students. The school was designed with nontraditional students in mind, as it was founded by a retired Navy lieutenant who saw the value in providing high-quality programs to students learning from afar. The school now offers over 100 programs, including an innovative Master of Science in Higher Education Administration.

Program Features

As the flagship school of the National University System, established in 2001, National University online is a champion in the field of distance learning. The curriculum of the Higher Education Administration program consists of 45 credits, including a thesis project. Students will take core requisite courses such as:

Leading and Managing Change Policy and Accountability Community Development in Higher Education Higher Education Law/Politics

Notables

National has provided quality online courses for well over 20 years and excels at offering flexible courses with its unique four-week class format. Because of this university s roots in the American military, the university is incredibly accommodating toward military personnel. Applicants with military experience may receive tuition discounts and scholarships, as well as student success-related academic and extracurricular services.

Overview

Emporia State wasn t just the first public university in the state of Kansas it was also originally founded as a teacher s college. This school, dating back to 1863, is one of the finest in the country at educating licensed teachers to prepare them for roles as principals, superintendents, and other school leaders. Students may reach their career goals in as little as twelve months by studying entirely online.

Program Features

This degree program is highly integrative, requiring students to complete two separate four-hour practica experiences. This allows them to further their understanding of real-world management issues in the school setting. Other required classes include:

Supervision and Evaluation School Leadership Theory Cultural Influences and Educational Practice Educational Law and Regulations

Notables

All courses in this program can be completed asynchronously through the Canvas platform. Students receive access to Emporia s unique program, GradShare, which provides an integrative community for distance learners. Students can engage in discussion forums and enjoy other resources related to job hunting, research, writing, and tutoring without ever leaving the comfort of their own homes. With tuition starting at just $334 per credit-hour, this university is one of the best at providing a practical, valuable experience in educational administration.

Overview

Located in Statesboro, GA, Georgia Southern University has a population of 20,000 students, many of whom are enrolled in online studies. The Master s of Education in Higher Education Administration program is broad-based and allows students to gain experience in all aspects of higher education, including business, academic affairs, and counseling. This degree is designed with busy working adults in mind and features a variety of flexible course scheduling and completion options.

Program Features

This program requires 36 credit-hours of study. Most of these credits require students to articulate their own responses to common higher education dilemmas and to develop solutions that integrate their newly acquired knowledge. Required classes include:

American Higher Education Higher Education Law College Student Development Learning Theories and Applications

Notables

This program is highly affordable, with tuition starting at just $277 per credit-hour for in-state students. Candidates may study either part- or full-time, giving them the flexibility to continue with other responsibilities and employment. With 141 programs and over 200 student organizations, Georgia Southern doesn t just provide a degree. It provides students with lifelong access to broad student and faculty networks, along with the opportunity to pursue areas of interest-both inside the classroom and out.

Overview

A large proprietary institution, Capella University is dedicated to serving a mostly online population of students. Capella s Master of Science in Education features multiple concentrations, with one of the most common being the Leadership in Educational Administration specialization. In this specialization, students learn how to promote student success and to develop a culture of learning that extends beyond the books and is carried on in each student s post-collegiate life and career.

Program Features

This program features a fully online curriculum with four core, three specialization, and three emphasis courses, along with an integrated internship experience. Students take up to three classes throughout each ten-week quarter and engage in weekly assignments and discussions. Students only pay for the classes they take, instead of a flat tuition rate. Some of the most popular classes include:

The Funding of Educational Institutions P-12 Principalship Education and the Law School Leadership: Data, Decision-Making, and School Improvement

Notables

This program is nationally recognized by the Educational Leadership Constituents Council for its quality and value. It is recognized by multiple states as providing adequate preparation for principal certification licensure and grants students exclusive access to some of the best and most innovative learning tools of its kind. Students are familiarized with the school simulation tool, a one-of-a-kind technology that gives students examples and situations that they are likely to experience in a real-world educational setting.