Online master's in educational administration degrees prepare learners for leadership roles in education. Master's degree holders support educators, oversee school operations, and improve student learning. Earning a master's in educational administration also helps professionals enter the education field.
Online enrollees complete coursework from anywhere. Many programs require onsite field experience and practicum hours. Learners can complete these requirements locally.
Our list ranks the most affordable online master's in educational administration degrees. Prospective students can use this list to find the best fit for their budget and career goals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in Education Degrees
What can you do with a master's in educational administration?
Graduates can work as school principals, higher education administrators, or school administrators. The degree also leads to opportunities in training and development.
How long does it take to get a master's in educational administration?
Full-time learners can earn a master's degree in two years. Students can enroll in accelerated programs to finish sooner.
What do you learn in a master's in educational administration program?
Learners study leadership theory and education research. They also explore curriculum development and program evaluation.
Featured Online Educational Administration Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Most Affordable Online Master's in Educational Administration Degrees
Why Get a Master's in Educational Administration?
Online master's in educational administration degrees help educators expand their careers and those new to the field move into advanced positions. Earning an educational administration degree online provides flexibility. Learners do not need to commute to campus or relocate to attend the most affordable program.
How Much Does a Master's in Educational Administration Degree Cost?
The cost of a master's degree varies by school and program. Online educational administration programs typically charge a per-credit fee. Online programs range from $300-$1,350 per credit, according to EducationData.org. Choosing a program with a lower number of credits can lead to a more affordable degree.
Tuition rates for some of the best master's in educational administration programs range from $10,000-$40,000. Students can lower their out-of-pocket costs by applying for scholarships and grants.
Additional Online Student Fees
Online students save money by not paying for campus housing or meal plans. However, they should budget for expenses such as books and supplies. Online enrollees may need to buy a new computer or upgrade their internet. Some online colleges charge technology or graduation fees.
Programs that include in-person requirements, such as campus visits, lead to travel costs. Students should also budget for licensing costs. Many programs only list tuition and some fees. Prospective enrollees should research programs' total cost.
How Much Do Educational Administration Majors Make?
An educational administration degree can qualify graduates for roles with above-average salaries. For example, training and development managers earn a median annual salary of $125,040, according to 2023 statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This figure exceeds the national annual mean salary of $65,470 for all occupations.
The degree often meets the requirements for school principal positions. Education administrators, including principals, earn a median annual salary of $103,460, per 2023 BLS data. The BLS projects jobs for these professionals to grow 8% from 2020-2030.
Courses in a Master's in Educational Administration Program
Earning an educational administration degree online strengthens leadership, organizational, and analytical skills. Learners take courses in education research, public school finance, and education laws. These courses prepare students for leadership roles.
Educational administration programs include practicum hours or field experience. Online learners can complete these requirements locally. See below for common courses in an educational administration program. Keep in mind that each program sets its own curriculum.
Educational Administration
Learners develop their leadership style and philosophy in educational administration courses. The class covers administrative skills for educational settings. Enrollees study resource management and educational finance. Other topics include ethical leadership in education and leadership behaviors. The course prepares graduate students for administrative and leadership responsibilities.
Education Research
Students examine current research in education and various research methods. The course covers qualitative and quantitative research methods. Learners develop analytical skills and gain an understanding of research methodologies. Students also explore practical applications of education research. They learn how to conduct evidence-based program evaluations.
Promoting School Improvement
This course trains enrollees how to analyze data and create and implement school improvement plans. The course also covers evaluating programs, encouraging effective learning environments, and promoting improvement.
Career and Salary Outlook for Educational Administration Students
A master's in educational administration prepares graduates for leadership roles in education. Degree holders can also explore jobs outside of the education field. See below for potential careers for graduates with an education administration degree.
Training and Development Managers
These managers assess an organization's training needs and oversee skill-boosting programs. They evaluate training programs and train staff to lead sessions. Training and development managers also ensure training and development programs align with organizational goals. They often work in human resources departments.
Instructional Coordinators
These coordinators manage curriculum for K-12 schools. They develop new materials, train teachers, and assess curricular effectiveness. Instructional coordinators may recommend textbooks, technologies, or teaching techniques to meet teaching standards. The role typically requires a master's degree and teaching experience.Postsecondary Education Administrators
These professionals manage student services and other administrative functions at colleges and universities. Also known as college administrators or higher education administrators, they work in housing, student affairs, and admissions. The role typically requires a master's degree and higher education experience.
| Career | Median Annual Salary | Projected Growth Rate (2020-2030) |
|---|---|---|
| Training and Development Managers | $115,640 | 11% |
| Instructional Coordinators | $66,970 | 10% |
| Postsecondary Education Administrators | $97,500 | 8% |
Source: BLS
