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.
by

Updated April 16, 2024

check mark Reviewed by

Our Integrity Network

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.

Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.

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.

Most Affordable Online Master's in Educational Administration Degrees

#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

Texas A & M International University

  • Laredo, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Texas State Board for Educator Certification

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

Texas A & M University

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

Programmatic Accreditation: Texas State Board for Educator Certification

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

National University

  • San Diego, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online

Programmatic Accreditation: Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation

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

Lamar University

  • Beaumont, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation

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

California State University, San Marcos

  • San Marcos, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: California Commission on Teacher Credentialing

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

Loyola Marymount University

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: California Commission on Teacher Credentialing

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

George Washington University

  • Washington, DC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

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

Campbellsville University

  • Campbellsville, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

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

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.

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.

Career Salary Outlook
CareerMedian Annual SalaryProjected Growth Rate (2020-2030)
Training and Development Managers$115,64011%
Instructional Coordinators$66,97010%
Postsecondary Education Administrators$97,5008%

Source: BLS

Recommended Reading

Helping you prepare and gain the most out of your educational experience.

Discover a program that is right for you.

Search schools to find the program that is right for you.