Most Affordable Online Master's In Educational Administration Degrees
Earning an educational administration degree online provides flexibility. Online programs range from $300-$1,350 per credit, according to EducationData.org.
An award-winning historian and writer, Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D., has published multiple scholarly articles and a book with the University of Chicago Press. She currently works as a writer and consultant. She holds a Ph.D. in history from Northwestern...
The CollegeChoice rankings team works to provide potential students and their families with up-to-date college information. Our rankings team researches each school on our college lists and ensures that all information is accurate. Our aim is to prov...
CollegeChoice.net is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.
Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:
Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
Provide specific, corrective feedback.
Identify critical information that writers may have missed.
Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for CollegeChoice.net as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.
CollegeChoice.net is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Turn Your Dreams Into Reality
Take our quiz and we'll do the homework for you! Compare your school matches and apply to your top choice today.
>
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.
Snapshot of Online Master's in Administration Education
Jump to a school below using the links in the "School" column.
Most Affordable Online Master's in Educational Administration Degrees
We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
CollegeChoice.net is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
#1 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Educational Administration Degrees
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH
4 years
Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: In-State | $637 Out-of-State | $637
Credits to Graduate: 36
The online master's in higher education administration from SNHU has a flexible format with no set class times, allowing learners to complete assignments on their own schedules. The program requires 27 major-specific credits covering program evaluation, contemporary issues in education, and data-driven decision-making.
Each student also chooses nine elective credits to round out their program, with options like educational policymaking, community college administration, and human behavior in organizations.
This program doesn't require applicants to submit GMAT or GRE scores.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,000
Out-of-state
$15,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,900
Out-of-state
$18,900
Retention Rate
62%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
145,533
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#2 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Educational Administration Degrees
Cost per Credit: In-State | $367 Out-of-State | $1,030
Credits to Graduate: 30
Students can complete TAMIU's online master of science in educational administration in just 10 months, thanks to its accelerated format with seven-week courses. The program prepares enrollees to pursue principal certification in Texas through courses in public school law, curriculum evaluation, and issues affecting educational leaders. Each learner also completes an 80-hour practicum shadowing a school administrator.
For program admission, an applicant must have a valid Texas teaching certificate with at least two years of teaching experience.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,818
Out-of-state
$13,610
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,350
Out-of-state
$10,694
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
8,455
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Educational Administration Degrees
Cost per Year: In-State | $8,026 Out-of-State | $18,084
Credits to Graduate: 36
Texas A&M's master's in educational administration offers a preK-12 educational leadership concentration for diversity-focused educational leaders. Students move through the program with a cohort, with each learner required to hold a valid Texas teaching certificate and at least two years of teaching experience.
The online program takes two years to complete, including three one-semester internships, which must occur in person in an approved educational setting. Learners must also attend a one-weekend on-campus training during their second spring semester.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,578
Out-of-state
$35,378
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,885
Out-of-state
$19,592
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
72,530
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Educational Administration Degrees
University of Missouri-St Louis
Saint Louis, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation
Cost per Credit: In-State | $661 Out-of-State | $1,507
Credits to Graduate: 33
UMSL's M.Ed. in educational administration prepares current K-12 teachers to pursue roles as principals, superintendents, and higher education leaders. Key courses include character education and development, data-driven instruction and team leadership, and leadership for equity.
Each student also completes a 300-hour clinical experience in a K-12 educational setting, with 50 hours in their choice of elementary or secondary-level education. UMSL requires an applicant to have at least three years of preK-12 teaching experience. The university gives preference to students minimum GPAs of 3.0 GPA in their undergraduate coursework.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,015
Out-of-state
$30,570
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,528
Out-of-state
$30,756
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
15,189
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Educational Administration Degrees
Cost per Year: In-State | $11,934 Out-of-State | $11,934
Quarter Units to Graduate: 45
The MS in educational administration from NU offers a preliminary administrative services credential option for teachers interested in pursuing educational administration roles in California. The online program is open for enrollment throughout the year, allowing students to begin when it best fits their schedules.
Classes are just four weeks long each, covering instructional leadership and strategies for professional growth, school improvement, and community involvement. Students can also opt for internship placements to receive supervised administration experience.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,320
Out-of-state
$13,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,480
Out-of-state
$15,480
Retention Rate
100%
Acceptance Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
17,135
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
80%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#6 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Educational Administration Degrees
Cost per Credit: In-State | $342 Out-of-State | $342
Credits to Graduate: 30
Known as the school's largest online graduate program, LU's master of education in administration explores school law, human resource management, and accountable leadership for future principals and administrator roles. A two-part internship helps students learn the responsibilities and expectations of school leaders while under the direct supervision of faculty, campus mentors, and school administrators.
An applicant must have at least two years of teaching experience and be employed at a Texas Education Agency-approved school. LU also requires a minimum 3.0 GPA throughout the program.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,228
Out-of-state
$16,020
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,471
Out-of-state
$13,815
Retention Rate
57%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
16,320
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
88%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Educational Administration Degrees
Cost per Unit: In-State | $530 Out-of-State | $530
Credits to Graduate: 30
Students enrolled in CSUSM's MA in educational administration can also receive a California preliminary administrative services credential for K-12 administration roles. The online program is cohort-based and can be completed in about 12 months. School finance, teaching culture, and leadership in diverse societies are among the topics covered in the curriculum.
Through a three-part seminar, each learner researches, improves, writes, and defends a thesis. The program also requires two in-person field experiences, during which students work with supervisors on leadership-focused tasks and projects.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
93%
Students Enrolled
16,255
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
86%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#8 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Educational Administration Degrees
Cost per Unit: In-State | $1,542 Out-of-State | $1,542
Credits to Graduate: 32
The MA in school administration from LMU allows learners to pursue California's preliminary administrative services credential, which can open the doors to leadership positions in public and private schools. While all courses are online, the program requires students to attend a synchronous online class on Saturdays for its six core classes, like business of education and responding to diversity.
Each applicant must have a valid California teaching credential and at least five years of full-time teaching experience for admission.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,310
Out-of-state
$52,310
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$19,642
Out-of-state
$19,642
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
46%
Students Enrolled
10,184
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#9 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Educational Administration Degrees
Cost per Credit: In-State | $1,110 Out-of-State | $1,110
Credits to Graduate: 30
GW's master's in educational leadership and administration prepares learners for administrative licensure in Washington, D.C. Enrollees can take two online eight-week courses at a time to finish the program in about two years or less.
Key courses include administrative issues in education and resource management for school leaders. An in-person internship wraps up the program as students get firsthand experience completing tasks and making decisions as a school administrator.
Each applicant submits transcripts, a resume, a statement of purpose, and two letters of recommendation and may be required to complete an interview.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$57,894
Out-of-state
$57,894
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$32,850
Out-of-state
$32,850
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
26,457
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
26%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#10 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Educational Administration Degrees
Cost per Credit: In-State | $319 Out-of-State | $319
Credits to Graduate: 30
CU's MA in educational administration focuses on principalship for preK-12 grades. The online program typically takes two years to complete, but students can transfer up to 12 credits from other institutions to decrease their time to completion.
The online program explores curriculum design, diversity, human resources, school law and finance, and staff evaluation. Learners also complete 50 intern hours in person, divided among elementary, middle, and high school settings.
An applicant must have at least three years of classroom teaching experience for admission.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,900
Out-of-state
$24,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,473
Out-of-state
$8,473
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
10,238
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
70%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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 $115,640, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This figure exceeds the median annual salary of $41,950 for all occupations.
The degree often meets the requirements for school principal positions. Principals earn a median annual salary of $98,490. 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.