education leadership program online

Education Leadership (online)

Graduate Program

The Master’s in Education (Ed.M.) prepares students with the skills needed to change the world through education. The online Master’s in Education Leadership is a part-time, two-year Ed.M. program from the Harvard Graduate School of Education with Higher Education and PreK-12 pathways. The program is specifically designed for working education professionals who bring at least seven years of relevant or transferrable work experience. Through this program, students will strengthen the invaluable skills they’ve already developed and develop the tools to propel themselves to new leadership opportunities and to even greater impact.

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• Elementary Education – B.A.
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• View all Education Degrees

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• Educational Studies – B.A.

Master of Science in Education Degrees

• View all Education Master's Degrees
• Curriculum and Instruction – M.S.
• Educational Leadership – M.S.
• Education Technology and Instructional Design – M.Ed.

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• Teaching, Elementary Education – M.A.
• Teaching, English Education (Secondary) – M.A.
• Teaching, Mathematics Education (Middle Grades) – M.A.
• Teaching, Mathematics Education (Secondary) – M.A.
• Teaching, Science Education (Secondary) – M.A.
• Teaching, Special Education (K-12) – M.A.

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• State Teaching Licensure Information

Master's Degrees for Teachers

• Mathematics Education (K-6) – M.A.
• Mathematics Education (Middle Grade) – M.A.
• Mathematics Education (Secondary) – M.A.
• English Language Learning (PreK-12) – M.A.
• Endorsement Preparation Program, English Language Learning (PreK-12)
• Science Education (Middle Grades) – M.A.
• Science Education (Secondary Chemistry) – M.A.
• Science Education (Secondary Physics) – M.A.
• Science Education (Secondary Biological Sciences) – M.A.
• Science Education (Secondary Earth Science)– M.A.
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• Healthcare Administration – B.S. (from the School of Business)
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• Nursing – Education (BSN-to-MSN Program) – M.S.
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• Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (BSN-to-MSN Program) – M.S. (Available in select states)
• Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BSN-to-MSN Program) – M.S. (Available in select states)
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• Nursing – Leadership and Management (RN-to-MSN Program) – M.S.
• Nursing – Nursing Informatics (RN-to-MSN Program) – M.S.
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Master of Science

Educational Leadership Master's

Make an impact on the future of education by becoming a school principal.

Are you an experienced, licensed teacher eager to take on new challenges? Perhaps it’s time you prepared to lead an institution of your own. Becoming a principal or educational administrator with this online educational license program will prepare you to change the future of education and impact students, teachers, and communities alike.

This online master's degree program is designed to enhance your expertise in educational governance, finance, law, leadership, and strategic planning. The program will give you the skills you need to manage a modern educational institution, including overseeing teachers, developing and implementing curriculum standards, and improving how your staff helps students achieve established academic goals. You'll also learn about school administration, how to manage educational budgets, ensure proper security, and better interact with parents, the public, and district administrators.

The Master's in Educational Leadership degree program (alternatively "Master's in Educational Administration") is aligned with National Educational Leadership Preparation (NELP) standards and Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (PSEL). Although it adheres to national educational standards, due to state-specific programming and licensure requirements,  this program is not accepted in Alabama, Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, and Minnesota.

60% of graduates finish within 

WGU lets you move more quickly through material you already know and advance as soon as you're ready. The result: You may finish faster.

*WGU Internal Data

Tuition per six-month term is

Tuition charged per term—rather than per credit—helps you control the ultimate cost of earning your degree online. Finish faster, pay less! 

Graduates who recommend WGU

The vast majority of alumni say WGU delivered on its promises. In fact, over 50% of students found WGU thanks to a friend's recommendation. 

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COURSES & COMPETENCIES

Educational leadership courses, curriculum that ensures you’ve mastered the skills you’ll need as a leader among students and staff..

Program consists of 13 courses

At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to help you show that you know your stuff.

This online Master of Education program provides the essential skills, knowledge, and field experience you need to successfully manage a modern educational institution, be it public or private. It will prepare you to be certified as a principal or educational administrator.

The WGU M.S. Educational Leadership program was designed (and is regularly updated) with input from the experts on our Education Program Council . These respected authorities know exactly what it takes for a graduate to lead a staff of educators, administrators, and support personnel in a modern educational setting.

This program comprises the following courses. You will typically complete them one at a time as you make your way through your program, working with your Program Mentor each term to build your personalized Degree Plan. You’ll work through each course as quickly as you can study and learn the material. As soon as you’re ready, you’ll pass the assessment, complete the course, and move on. This means that you can finish as many courses as you're able in a term at no additional cost.

Leadership of Curriculum Design and Instruction prepares candidates to evaluate and implement curricular programs and instructional methods observed at the school level. Candidates focus on the knowledge and skills needed to develop, align, and implement cohesive systems of curriculum, instruction, and assessment. Importance is placed on responding to student needs, embodying high expectations for student learning, aligning with academic and non-academic standards within and across grade levels, and promoting students' academic and non-academic success and social and emotional well-being. This course also explores the use of data from formative and summative assessments to make recommendations to improve instruction and promote student learning and well-being. Candidates are prepared to build a professional culture of trust and collaboration to ensure they are able to work with school personnel in creating curricular programs and instructional methods that are engaging, challenging, and relevant to student needs, experiences, and interests. This course is designed to be taken after successful completion of D632: Cultural Competency and Social-Emotional Learning.

Leadership Foundations and Ethics presents candidates with a variety of leadership theories and strategies used by PK–12 educational leaders to develop, sustain, and evaluate a coherent system of academic and social supports that meet the full range of students' needs. Foundational knowledge addresses the importance of developing mission, vision, and core values in collaboration with faculty, staff, and the school community to advocate for student success. The course also covers communication strategies, interpersonal skills, and using data to build community, influence school culture, and manage change for continuous improvement. In addition, candidates are introduced to the significance of following professional ethical codes and the importance of modeling and advocating ethical behavior with all stakeholders.

School Law prepares candidates to understand the appropriate application of laws, rights, policies, and regulations to promote student success. The course emphasizes the importance of understanding the history of and relationship between federal and state laws, legal decisions, local education policies, and practices at the local school level to ensure compliance. The course further focuses on understanding the legal rights and protections provided for all students, including those with disabilities, as well as school staff. It also addresses curriculum and instruction that help stakeholders understand the possible effects these rights may have on administrative decisions. Candidates are also provided the opportunity to demonstrate their capability to evaluate legal consequences of administrative decisions.

People and Talent in Educational Leadership prepares candidates to understand and implement practices used to recruit, hire, and prepare school personnel to provide students with an optimal learning environment. Various school professional development practices, such as professional learning communities, collaborative learning communities, beginning teacher induction, and mentor programs, will be covered. Additionally the course covers methods to evaluate school personnel appropriately based on data-driven decisions; providing realistic and actionable feedback to school personnel to continuously drive improvement; engaging all school personnel in the use and evaluation of competing school-wide initiatives; creating and sustaining a professional culture of engagement and commitment by developing workplace conditions that promote employee development, well-being, and professional growth; and continuously supporting school personnel to improve their instructional practices through ongoing professional development. The candidate will also reflect on leadership standards in order to develop a personal professional growth plan. A prerequisite for this course is D017: School Law.

School Financial Leadership focuses on financial policies, practices, and issues connected to PK–12 school operations. The course describes various sources of school funding, the impact these sources can have on managing school budgets, and the challenges connected to finances that are often encountered by school leaders to ensure equitable financial support for all students. Candidates learn how to analyze different types of school budgets and understand the principal's role in the budgetary process to ensure alignment to the school's mission, vision, and values. This course also identifies and explains various types of commonly used accounting regulations, rules, and professional ethical principles used to create, maintain, and evaluate school budgets to ensure the equitable and ethical use of financial resources. This course is designed to be taken after successful completion of D017: School Law.

Practicum in Educational Leadership - Focus on Professional Practices provides candidates with an authentic, real-world work experience as an educational leader in a K–12 school environment. This is the first of a two-part experience designed to take place under the leadership and supervision of a practicing school principal or assistant principal at an approved practicum school site (K–12). This course includes an emphasis on the application of knowledge and skills to areas directly or indirectly affecting students. Collaboration within the school and local community is a focal point for this course. The course also includes the completion of assigned administrative duties in a K–12 setting, as defined by the candidate's state of residence, under the supervision of the cooperating administrator of the candidate's approved practicum site. Prior to enrolling in this practicum course, the candidate must complete a minimum of 18 CUs.

Systems management and school operations instruct candidates on the operational aspects of school leadership that are essential to developing, monitoring, and evaluating school management, school systems, and services that address and support the needs of students and school personnel. Topics presented in this course include systems thinking; development, implementation, and evaluation of data-based strategic planning; and school improvement processes. Candidates will evaluate the use of appropriate operational technology and the development of communications systems that provide actionable information to internal and external stakeholders for use in classroom and school improvement and community engagement. Each of these topics emphasizes the importance of efficiently and effectively managing school resources to build, maintain, and evaluate a cohesive system of academic and organizational supports, services, extracurricular activities, and accommodations to meet the full range of needs for each student. Prerequisites for this course: Leadership Foundations and Ethics and School Law.

Practicum in Educational Leadership - Focus on Instruction and Operations provides candidates with an authentic, real-world work experience as an educational leader in a K–12 school environment. This is the second of a two-part experience designed to take place under the leadership and supervision of a practicing school principal or assistant principal at an approved practicum school site (K–12). This course includes an emphasis on the application of knowledge and skills to areas affecting school operations and school personnel. The course also includes the completion of assigned administrative duties in a K–12 setting, as defined by the candidate's state of residence, under the supervision of the cooperating administrator of the candidate's approved practicum site. Prior to enrolling in this practicum course, the candidate must complete a minimum of 18 CUs.

Educational Leadership Capstone serves as the culminating experience of this degree program, uniting content area knowledge with the execution of a problem-based learning project. Under the guidance of program faculty, candidates will apply their data literacy and research skills authentically and to topics appropriate to the candidate's degree program and future career goals. Projects will include action research or program evaluation and the qualitative or quantitative research methods necessitated by the project's purpose. Prerequisites include Data Literacy and Educational Inquiry, as well as all content area courses and field experiences prescribed in one's area of study. This course is designed to be taken after successful completion of all courses with the exception of Educational Inquiry, which may be taken concurrently.

Leading Inclusive Schools covers a variety of topics that directly affect students who have been assessed and determined to need additional support or services to ensure their academic success and well-being. The course prepares candidates to understand and comply with applicable laws, rights, policies, and regulations as appropriate to address matters of equity, fairness, and student marginalization based on culture and language, disability, or giftedness. These include types of special education classifications and their significance, working with English learners (ELs), working with gifted and talented students, and using Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) frameworks to ensure optimum learning environments for diverse learners. This course will guide candidates in building a strong repertoire of skills and knowledge related to exceptional students. It will help them ensure that each student has equitable access to effective teachers; learning opportunities; academic, social, and behavioral support; and other resources necessary for success. This course is designed to be taken after successful completion of the School Law course.

Cultural Competency and Social-Emotional Learning focuses on empowering educational leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to foster cultural competency, deepen their understanding of diverse learner populations, and apply culturally responsive pedagogy. This course places a strong emphasis on promoting social justice, equity, and inclusivity within educational contexts. Students in this course will engage in immersive learning experiences aimed at equipping them with the capacity to lead social-emotional learning initiatives that cater to the social and emotional needs of all learners. The course also empowers students with advocacy strategies to influence positive change in local and global educational environments, ensuring that educational leaders are well prepared to navigate the challenges and opportunities of today's diverse educational landscape. This course is designed to be taken after successful completion of D019: Data Literacy and Evidence-Based Practices.

Data Literacy and Evidence-Based Practices focuses on the development of data literacy skills educators need to improve the learning and development opportunities of K–12 students. Candidates will practice identifying educational problems and data types, generating data, analyzing data, making inferences and drawing conclusions, and creating action plans within their educational settings. Candidates will also learn best practices for data literacy, including continuous improvement planning, approaches to professional learning communities, and instructional decision-making processes. This course has no prerequisites.

Educational Inquiry focuses on practical problem solving. This course teaches candidates to use scholarly literature to inform their own practice. It also teaches candidates to engage in their own action research processes, which empowers educators to recognize opportunities for improvement and to systematically implement and evaluate changes. This course prepares candidates to conduct research for the capstone. Prerequisites for this course: Data Literacy and Evidence-Based Practices.

Capstone Project

Special requirements for this program

WGU's online master's degree program in educational leadership requires the successful completion of a capstone project. You'll take what you've learned during your studies and apply it to a real-world situation, proposing a solution to an actual issue you're likely to face in a professional academic environment. 

Skills For Your Résumé

As part of this program, you will develop a range of valuable skills that employers are looking for. 

• Presentations: Created tailored presentations that effectively address the unique needs and interests of specific audiences.
• Budgeting: Skillfully evaluated funding requests for various activities, ensuring they align with pre-authorized budget expenditures, promoting financial responsibility.
• Leadership: Established open lines of communication between leaders and team members, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
• Educational Leadership: Collaborated with stakeholders to identify and establish educational goals for school improvement plans.
• Ethical Standards And Conduct: Demonstrated the consistent use of responsible practices and principles, reflecting a commitment to ethical and professional conduct.
• Operations: Successfully identified key personnel and processes within organizations, leading to streamlined operations and efficient decision-making processes.

“After years of putting off getting my master's degree, I finally decided that it was time. While working a full-time teaching job and having a husband and two toddlers at home, WGU's program allowed me the flexibility of working at my own pace. I was able to earn my Educational Leadership degree in an accelerated time frame with the support of my course instructors and mentor. WGU allowed me to achieve my goals, and I love them so much that I registered for a second master's!”

—Sylvia M.S. Educational Leadership

WGU vs. Traditional Universities Compare the Difference

Traditional Universities

TUITION STRUCTURE

Per credit hour

Flat rate per 6-month term

Schedule and wait days or even weeks to meet with one of many counselors

Simply email or call to connect with your designated Program Mentor who supports you from day one

Scheduled time

Whenever you feel ready

Professor led lectures at a certain time and place

Courses available anytime, from anywhere

TIME TO FINISH

Approximately 2 years, minimal acceleration options

As quickly as you can master the material, can finish programs in under 2 years

You Aren't On Your Own

WGU has Program Mentors who work with you from the day you start, all the way through graduation. They help you chart your courses, answer your questions, and ensure you can go through your program. You're not alone when you choose an online degree at WGU.

Flexibility You Need

Students choose WGU for their online degree program because of its flexibility. Whether you already have a full-time job, have responsibilities as a parent, or just have a busy schedule, WGU can work for you.

Strong Alumni Network

When you enroll in an online master's degree program at WGU, you join an impressive network of teachers. Over 13,000 students graduated from the Teachers College in 2021 alone, taking their skills and impacting the educational system all around the United States.

Accredited, Respected, Recognized™

One important measure of a degree’s value is the reputation of the university where it was earned. When employers, industry leaders, and academic experts hold your alma mater in high esteem, you reap the benefits of that respect. WGU is a pioneer in reinventing higher education for the 21st century, and our quality has been recognized.

COST & TIME

When We Say Affordable We Mean It

By charging per six-month term rather than per credit—and empowering students to accelerate through material they know well or learn quickly—WGU helps students control the ultimate cost of their degrees. The faster you complete your program, the less you pay for your degree.

A Master's Degree Is Within Reach

There is help available to make paying for school possible for you:

The average student loan debt of WGU graduates in 2022 (among those who borrowed) was less than half* the national average.

Most WGU students qualify for financial aid, and WGU is approved for federal financial aid and U.S. veterans benefits. 

Many scholarship opportunities are available. Find out what you might be eligible for.  

* WGU undergraduate students have approximately half the debt at graduation compared to the national average, according to the Institute for College Access and Success (2022).

FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE

A Different Way to Learn: Degree Programs Designed to Fit Your Life—and All the Demands on Your Time

Professional responsibilities. Family obligations. Personal commitments. At WGU, we understand schedules are tight and often unpredictable for adult students. That’s why we offer a flexible, personalized approach to how education should be. No rigid class schedules. Just a solid, career-focused principal preparation program that meshes with your current lifestyle. You'll be challenged. You'll work hard. But if you commit yourself and put in the hours needed, WGU makes it possible for you to earn a highly respected degree as a busy working adult.

"My experience at WGU was excellent. My mentors and professors where there when I needed them. There ability to keep me on track and to answer questions in a timely matter allowed me to get my master's faster than I thought possible.”

—Jerry Nielson M.S. Educational Leadership

CAREER OUTLOOK

Pave the Way to the Next Step in Your Career as an Educational Administrator

If you're a licensed classroom teacher with at least three years of experience under your belt, and you have a passion for positive influence in an academic setting, you are ready to advance in your career by becoming an instruction-based principal, vice principal, assistant principal or school administrator. As an educational leader, you'll have an opportunity to shape the school that you run by creating an inspiring and safe environment for educators and the students they teach.

With the deep, comprehensive education you'll receive at WGU, you will be ready to be certified and become a school principal. This position allows you to impact the overall learning environment of an institution and lead students toward a better academic future. Consider this program an investment in yourself, in your professional growth, and in the future of your students.

Return on Your Investment

On average, wgu graduates see an increase in income post-graduation.

Average income increase from all degrees in annual salary vs. pre-enrollment salary. Source:  2022 Harris Poll Survey  of 1,542 WGU graduates.

Survey was sent to a representative sample of WGU graduates from all colleges. Respondents received at least one WGU degree since 2017.

Employment of elementary, middle, and high school principals is projected to grow 5% from 2021 to 2031.

—U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

WGU Has Alumni Teaching Across the Country

Graduates of WGU's online Teachers College have found meaningful, rewarding teaching careers in classrooms at:

• Inclusionary K–12 classrooms
• Middle/junior high schools
• High schools
• Private and charter schools

Impressive Class of Graduates

Graduates of the WGU Teachers College include recipients of many professional honors, including:

• Gates Millennium Scholars
• Intel Grant for Mathematics and Technology
• Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction Award
• Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award
• Association of Public Charter Schools Educator of the Year Award

Master of Education Admission Requirements

Prior to entry into the M.S. Educational Leadership degree program, you will be required to complete a candidate interview and provide the following:

• Evidence of an undergraduate bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• Proof of a state issued, valid, and unexpired standard professional license
• A resume showing three years of licensed professional experience in a P-12 setting (excluding probationary, temporary, and substitute teaching experience)
• A confidential recommendation
• Recent annual summative performance evaluation

Additionally, you will complete and submit a Practicum Site Agreement . Use the version for your state of residence.

• For students in Washington.
• For students in Missouri.
• For students in North Carolina.
• For students in Kentucky.
• For students from all other states.

Get Your Enrollment Checklist

Download your step-by-step guide to enrollment.

Get Your Questions Answered

Talk to an WGU Enrollment Counselor.

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More About the M.S. in Educational Leadership

• More About This Degree

What is a master's in educational leadership?

A master's degree in educational leadership is a graduate program that prepares you for certification as a school principal or administrator. It gives you important skills and credentials to understand how to run the school in an efficient way. 

How long does it take to earn a master's in educational leadership?

Typical master's of educational leadership programs take 2 years to complete, but at some schools you may be able to accelerate and finish faster. For example, most WGU educational leadership students finish in just 18 months or less.

What can you do with an educational leadership degree?

An educational leadership degree can prepare you to become a vice principal, assistant principal, principal, or other administrator in education.

What can I expect from an online master's in educational leadership program?

What are the types of educational leadership.

Most educational leaders fall into a few categories of leadership including: servant leaders, transactional leaders, emotional leaders, and transformational leaders.

What are the functions of educational leadership?

Educational leadership is implemented to ensure that the entire school and system runs smoothly. Educational leaders are in place to create effective and robust places of teaching and learning where students feel safe and welcome. They ensure that the business end of a school runs well, while also ensuring that students and teachers feel confident as individuals.

What is educational leadership theory?

Educational leadership theory evaluates the different approaches to running schools and classrooms in ways that are effective for students and teachers alike.

What is meant by educational leadership?

Educational leadership is a joint effort utilizing the talents and expertise of educators, students, policy makers and the public at large to enhance public K-12 educational quality and systems. These enhancements are typically executed through improvements to training regiments, pedagogy, epistemology, and developmental psychology. A degree in educational leadership will focus on helping current teachers advance their knowledge and skills, giving them greater opportunities to influence policy and move into education careers that impact the future of learning.

What are the key qualities of educational leadership?

There are many qualities that an educational leader should exhibit. Qualities such as positivity, honesty, deep reflection, authenticity, integrity, passion, inclusivity, and a strong focus on community building and collaboration on educational issues are key to being a transformational educational leader. In an educational leadership degree program, you will focus on developing and honing these skills.

Should I get an online masters degree, or a graduate certificate?

Understanding your post bachelor educational possibilities is crucial if you have a specific goal in mind. For some, a post-graduate certificate can fulfill the requirements that are needed to teach a specific course or courses, by fulfilling a state or national licensing requirement, but a certificate is what is considered a non-degree award. As a result, if you have career goals that include additional advancements for your career beyond the classroom, you may need to consider if a certificate will provide you the ability to pursue those goals. 

A master’s degree in education can open the doors to school leadership roles as a principal or assistant principal, and in some states is even sufficient to be considered for roles as part of the superintendency. This is not typically true of a graduate certificate. Check your state guidelines to see your specific state’s educational requirements for leadership roles. 

Does WGU offer financial aid?

WGU is approved to offer  federal student aid . You will need to apply using the FAFSA, which is used to determine your eligibility for aid. WGU’s FAFSA school code is 033394.

Are there scholarships available?

Scholarships are available for new WGU students and returning graduates.  This video shows more  about scholarship opportunities and how they can help you pay for school. Get information on:

• How to apply
• Eligibility requirements
• Examples of scholarships
• What happens after you apply
• Other financial aid options

How does tuition work at WGU?

WGU's tuition is a flat rate that is charged every six months. You can take as many courses as you are able in that six-month term—with no extra cost. You simply pay for the term and do as much work as you can or want to during that time. This means that finishing faster helps you save money—a major benefit you won't find at most other schools. 

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The Best Online Master's in Educational Leadership Programs

Amy Boyington

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated March 11, 2024

Daniella Ramirez

Contributing Editor

TheBestSchools.org 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.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

What Is an Online Master's in Educational Leadership Degree?

An online master's degree in educational leadership explores administrative elements in education, such as policy, curriculum design, and instructional supervision. These programs can lead to careers as school principals, superintendents, instructional coordinators, and postsecondary administrators.

Professionals already working in education typically pursue these programs to transition their careers beyond the classroom. Students can expect to learn about educational law and policy, school and community partnership building, and financial management. Usually 30-36 credits, a master's in educational leadership takes 1-2 years to complete, depending on enrollment status.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), educational leadership jobs offer high earning potential. The median school principal salary exceeds $100,000, while postsecondary education administrators earn a median wage of $99,940 per year. The outlook for these school administration jobs also appears stable, with the BLS projecting a growth rate as fast as average for instructional coordinator jobs from 2022-2032.

Master's in Educational Leadership Overview

A master's in educational leadership program provides advanced training in school administration. Graduate students complete coursework to prepare for roles as school principals, higher education administrators, and school superintendents. Programs emphasize core skills, including strategic planning in education and curriculum design.

Earning an educational leadership degree generally takes two years for full-time students, though some programs offer accelerated options. Schools may incorporate internships or practicums, allowing students to gain hands-on experience working under school administrators. Many online educational leadership programs cater to working educators by prioritizing flexibility.

An educational leadership degree can meet the requirements for positions as school principals, school administrators, and superintendents. After completing an online master's in educational leadership track, some educators choose to pursue doctorates. A doctoral degree can lead to advanced opportunities in education or research, as well as academic jobs.

Featured Online Master's in Educational Leadership Degrees

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

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.

• 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.

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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 .

We thank you for your readership and trust.

The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. TheBestSchools.org 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 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

Florida State University

• Tallahassee, FL
• Online + Campus

From its campus in Tallahassee, Florida State University offers an online master's in educational leadership and administration to enhance educators' professional knowledge and prepare them for administrative roles. After completing a master's degree, candidates can pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.

The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to educational administration. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants with a background in educational administration typically meet the admission requirements.

Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. The common facilities and services offered at most universities, such as the library or gym, are accessible to students who live on campus. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.

Florida State University at a Glance:

Type of school: Public, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 32%

Total Online Master's Programs: 16

Program name: Education Leadership Master's

Graduate Tuition In State: $9,684

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,116

#2 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

George Washington University

• Washington, DC

Graduate students seeking an online educational administration degree can enroll in the master's program at George Washington University, located in Washington, D.C. The rigorous MA in educational leadership and administration is designed for working professionals interested in K-12 education and central office leadership positions.

The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Virtual classrooms give enrollees access to scholars, principals, superintendents, and other field experts. 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 expand their professional network through internships and online events.

George Washington University at a Glance:

Type of school: Private, not-for-profit, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 43%

Total Online Master's Programs: 50

Program name: MA in Educational Leadership and Administration

Graduate Tuition In State: $31,770

#3 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

Oklahoma State University-Main Campus

• Stillwater, OK

From its campus in Stillwater, Oklahoma State University hosts a top-ranked master's in educational administration program. The master of science in educational leadership studies prepares graduates for leadership roles in PK-12 education. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.

The curriculum is a hybrid cohort model designed for working adults who can learn and collaborate together. The MS emphasizes theory and practice, and enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Campus attendance gives students access to common amenities and facilities, such as the library or gym. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.

Oklahoma State University-Main Campus at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 67%

Total Online Master's Programs: 23

Program name: MS in Educational Leadership Studies

Graduate Tuition In State: $5,531

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,034

#4 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

University of South Carolina-Columbia

• Columbia, SC

The University of South Carolina-Columbia offers an online M.Ed. in education administration with an emphasis in educational leadership and policies in PK-12 schools. The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in educational administration, utilizing simulations, case studies, and research projects.  

Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Common facilities and services offered at most universities, such as the library or gymnasium, are accessible to students living on campus. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.

The University of South Carolina-Columbia at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 68%

Total Online Master's Programs: 28

Program name: M.Ed. in Education Administration 

Graduate Tuition In State: $13,737

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,760

#5 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

• Lincoln, NE

The online MA in educational administration at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln prioritizes flexibility. The degree offers specializations in community colleges, higher education, and student affairs administration. UNL's department of educational administration is well-known for developing rigorous and accessible programs for educators pursuing career advancement in P-12 and higher education.

UNL encourages applicants to gain experience in educational administration before applying to the program. Online enrollees work with the school to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Internships and networking events help graduate students enhance their experience and expand their professional network.

University of Nebraska-Lincoln at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 78%

Total Online Master's Programs: 15

Program name: MA in Educational Administration

Graduate Tuition In State: $6,138

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,928

#6 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

Liberty University

• Lynchburg, VA

From its campus in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University offers an online M.Ed. in higher education with a concentration in educational leadership. Enrollees receive the necessary training to pursue administrative roles in postsecondary education. The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of educational administration. The curriculum expores topics, such as leadership and supervision in education and educational policy. 

Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations near their home. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.

Liberty University at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 50%

Total Online Master's Programs: 68

Program name: M.Ed. in Higher Education – Educational Leadership 

Graduate Tuition In State: $7,935

#7 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

Texas A & M International University

The master of science in educational administration at Texas A & M International University, located in Laredo, offers a flexible online format. Students can complete the degree in just 10 months. Enrollees can use the program to help prepare for principalship exams in Texas.

The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in educational administration. Enrollees learn effective leadership and data-driven decision-making skills. Online enrollees complete practicum or internship requirements in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Campus students have access to the library and gymnasium, as well as other equipment and facilities available at most institutions. Seven-week courses help students accelerate degree completion.

Texas A & M International University at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 59%

Total Online Master's Programs: 11

Program name: MS in Educational Administration

Graduate Tuition In State: $3,350

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,712

#8 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

Southern New Hampshire University

• Manchester, NH

Southern New Hampshire University, located in Manchester, is a leader in online learning. SNHU's M.Ed. in curriculum and instruction offers a concentration in education leadership. The program emphasizes both practical and theoretical skills that graduates can apply in the classroom and in administrative roles. The M.Ed. covers subjects, such as curriculum design, technology integration, and leading educational organizations. Internship and practicum activities provide hands-on experience and professional networking opportunities. Students have access to learning resources from day one, and can complete the degree in just 15 months.

Southern New Hampshire University at a Glance:

Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 94%

Total Online Master's Programs: 29

Program name: M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction with a Concentration in Education Leadership

Graduate Tuition In State: $18,810

#9 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

Tarleton State University

• Stephenville, TX

From its campus in Stephenville, Texas, Tarleton State University offers a customizable online M.Ed. in educational administration. The curriculum offers both principal certification and non-certification degree plans with one of three concentrations: EC-12 leadership principal certification, higher education leadership, and educational technology leadership.

Participants complete practicums to acquire knowledge of a variety of areas, such as building operations and finance and budgeting. Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Campus students have access to the library and gymnasium, as well as other equipment and facilities available at most institutions. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.

Tarleton State University at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 58%

Total Online Master's Programs: 7

Program name: M.Ed. in Educational Administration 

Graduate Tuition In State: $4,248

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,510

#10 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

Webster University

• Saint Louis, MO

The online MA in educational leadership and administration at Webster University is a good option for students pursuing K-12 school leader certification. The program builds specialized skills for leadership roles through coursework, internships, and a capstone course.

The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to educational administration. Topics covered include school law, finance, and leadership and innovation. Online enrollees fulfill internship requirements at approved sites in their local area. Since the program is also available on campus, in-person attendees can enjoy the common amenities and facilities available at most institutions, such as the library or gym. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.

Webster University at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 53%

Total Online Master's Programs: 27

Graduate Tuition In State: $13,500

#11 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

Southern Wesleyan University

• Central, SC

From its campus in South Carolina, Southern Wesleyan University offers an M.Ed. in administration and supervision that prepares enrollees for principal certification or other educational leadership roles. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum is delivered entirely online using accelerated seven-week courses. 

The M.Ed. curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in educational administration. Enrollees develop skills in operations management and public and community relations. Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional practicum and internship experiences at approved locations. 

Applicants with at least two years of teaching experience may want to consider this program. On-campus students benefit from the library and gym facilities provided by many institutions. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.

Southern Wesleyan University at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 56%

Total Online Master's Programs: 5

Program name: M.Ed. in Administration and Supervision

Graduate Tuition In State: $13,560

#12 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

Northwestern College

• Orange City, IA

Northwestern College, located in Orange City, Iowa, offers an online M.Ed. in educational administration and principal endorsement designed for working professionals. The program offers a supervisor of special education endorsement track for learners interested in special education leadership roles. Students complete eight-week courses at their own pace. 

The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in educational administration. Topics include operations management, instructional leadership, and curriculum and assessement. Enrollees complete a series of internships designed to give them hands-on experience in their local area. Participants apply their learning in an action research project.

Northwestern College at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 74%

Total Online Master's Programs: 3

Program name: M.Ed. in Educational Administration and Principal Endorsement 

Graduate Tuition In State: $6,120

#13 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

LeTourneau University

• Longview, TX

LeTourneau University, located in Longview, Texas, offers high-quality academic programs, such as the M.Ed. in educational administration. The degree is designed for educators with some teaching experience who want to pursue principal certification.

The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. The program includes principal certification prep courses and opportunities to take principal practice exams. Online enrollees gain professional experience through internships or practicums offered in their local area. Students complete one course at a time for flexibility, and the seven-week format encourages faster degree completion. Campus students have access to the library and gymnasium, as well as other equipment and facilities available at most institutions. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.

LeTourneau University at a Glance:

Total Online Master's Programs: 14

Program name: M.Ed. in Educational Administration

Graduate Tuition In State: $18,630

#14 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

University of Phoenix-Arizona

• Phoenix, AZ

The University of Phoenix-Arizona administers an MA in education that emphasizes teaching, curriculum and instruction, and administration and supervision. The degree prepares participants for leadership roles with a higher earning potential.

The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Enrollees design and implement school leadership interventions to improve student and school performance. Participants develop skills, such as problem-solving and decision-making. Educators complement theoretical learning with hands-on internships and field experience within their local communities. Enrollees can continue to work by taking one course at a time, with accelerated courses available to speed up degree completion.

University of Phoenix-Arizona at a Glance:

Type of school: Private, for-profit, 4-year or above

Program name: MA in Education

Graduate Tuition In State: $17,096

#15 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

South Dakota State University

• Brookings, SD

Based in Brookings, South Dakota, South Dakota State University hosts a top-rated online M.Ed. in educational administration. The master's degree is designed for students who plan to work with children of all ages. The curriculum is aligned with professional training standards for those seeking positions as education leaders.

The master's curriculum emphasizes best practices in educational administration, covering topics in school finance, supervision, and educational law. A local internship component provides hands-on field experience that may be paid or unpaid. A capstone is part of the internship and requires presentations and discussions based on literature, real-world problems, and research. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.

South Dakota State University at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 89%

Total Online Master's Programs: 18

Graduate Tuition In State: $8,083

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $15,541

#16 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

Cairn University-Langhorne

• Langhorne, PA

Located in Pennsylvania, Cairn University-Langhorne develops an M.S. in educational leadership and administration especially for educators who want to work in a Christian school context. The master's degree offers a fully online curriculum that features seven-week terms.

The curriculum emphasizes educational administration concepts and best practices. Learners take specialized courses and electives in areas, such as the principalship PK-12, financial business management, and school law. The program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in educational administration.

Online enrollees complete an optional internship at approved sites in their own community. One good thing about this program is that students receive credit for previous courses and work experience.

Cairn University-Langhorne at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 81%

Program name:  M.S. in Educational Leadership & Administration 

Graduate Tuition In State: $14,040

#17 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

Capella University

• Minneapolis, MN

An online master of science in education, leadership in educational administration is offered by Capella University and helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. Students complete weekly assignments and participate in discussions with faculty and peers. 

Participants develop expertise in core areas, such as the P-12 principalship, personnel administration, and school law. Students can customize this degree with specialized and concentration courses. Degree-seekers can transfer credits into this program to help accelerate degree completion. Attendees gain professional experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.

Capella University at a Glance:

Total Online Master's Programs: 78

Program name: MS in Education, Leadership in Educational Administration 

Graduate Tuition In State: $14,767

#18 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

New Mexico State University-Main Campus

• Las Cruces, NM

Graduate students seeking an online educational administration degree should consider the master's program at New Mexico State University-Main Campus, located in Las Cruces. The master of arts in educational leadership and administration in preK-12 + licensure program prepares learners for roles in public school leadership or research.

The degree is also advnaced preparation for leadership roles in governmental or private sector agencies. Students complete most of the degree online but must attend on-campus meetings during the internship component. The internship provides participants with professional experience in educational settings. 

The program boasts affordability and tuition discounts for active duty personnel.

New Mexico State University-Main Campus at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 63%

Program name: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Administration in PreK-12 + Licensure program 

Graduate Tuition In State: $4,981

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,330

#19 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

Grand Canyon University

Graduate students seeking an online educational administration degree can enroll in the master's program at Grand Canyon University, located in Phoenix. The master's in education leadership program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for administrative responsibilities. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.

Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants with a background in educational administration typically meet the admission requirements.

Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. The common facilities and services offered at most universities, such as the library or gym, are accessible to students who live on campus. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.

Grand Canyon University at a Glance:

Type of school: Private for-profit, 4-year or above

Total Online Master's Programs: 45

Program name: Master's in education leadership

Graduate Tuition In State: $10,528

#20 The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

Hannibal-LaGrange University

• Hannibal, MO

The master of education administration degree at Hannibal-LaGrange University uses a flexible distance learning format. The program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.

The degree program emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to educational administration. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants without an undergraduate degree in education administration or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll.

Online enrollees gain professional experience through internships offered in their local area. Many institutions provide libraries and fitness centers for use by students living on campus. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.

Hannibal-LaGrange University at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 65%

Program name: Master of education administration

Graduate Tuition In State: $14,250

Online Master's in Educational Leadership Programs Ranking Guidelines

We selected these degree programs based on the program quality and variety of courses provided, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation.

Choosing a Master's in Educational Leadership Online Program

Online programs can help working educators pursue career advancement without leaving their jobs. Prospective enrollees can consider several factors when choosing a program, including tuition costs, available concentrations, and whether the program meets licensure requirements.

Costs for master's in educational leadership programs vary widely. In general, public schools charge in-state learners the lowest tuition rates. However, some distance programs offer flat-rate tuition to out-of-state students who complete the program entirely online. In addition to tuition, prospective students should consider fees and book costs.

Choosing an accelerated program or a program that accepts transfer credits can also lower the cost of an educational leadership degree. Many educational leadership programs offer focus areas in school principalship or higher education administration. Additionally, prospective principals seeking public school jobs should check whether the program meets their states' principal licensure requirements.

What Can I Expect From a Master's in Educational Leadership Online Program?

An educational leadership program trains graduate students about administrative topics for careers in education. While earning an online master's in educational leadership, you can take courses in school administration, strategic planning, and curriculum design. Many educational leadership programs meet the requirements for school administrator licensure, including as a school principal or superintendent.

The Curriculum for an Online Master's Degree in Educational Leadership

Leadership and Supervision in Education: This course explores the importance of educational leadership roles and how they interact with, support, and oversee educators. Learners discover appropriate leadership strategies to build relationships and enhance collaboration in educational settings.

School-Community Relationships: School administrators must foster beneficial relationships between schools and their communities. This course teaches students to identify community, school, and district needs. Professionals use this information to build partnerships, use community resources, and organize community initiatives.

Critical Issues in Educational Leadership: This course examines historical and modern topics in education. It also equips students with the necessary skills, knowledge, and tools to overcome common challenges faced by schools and districts.

School Law and Policy: Students may explore topics such as special education, policymaking practices, compliance, ethics, and positive change in this course.

Curriculum Design: Learners discover how to craft effective curricula and improve coursework to meet the needs of diverse learners. Students also integrate technology into the curriculum design process to enhance classroom instruction and learning.

Certifications and Licenses a Master's in Educational Leadership Prepares For

School Leaders Licensure: Many educational leadership jobs require school administration licensure, including jobs as school principals and administrators. Each state sets specific licensure requirements, but candidates generally must have accredited master's degrees in educational leadership or education administration.

Many states also require passing scores on an ETS school leadership examination. This test covers educational leadership topics, such as instructional leadership, organizational leadership, and strategic leadership. In some states, candidates for principal licensure must already hold valid teaching licenses. Prospective school administration professionals should research the licensure requirements in their state.

School Superintendent Assessment Certification: In many states, school superintendent jobs require a license or certificate. A candidate for school superintendent licensure often needs a master's degree in educational leadership or education administration from an accredited program.

Some states set additional coursework requirements, which may require a school superintendent concentration. Candidates may need to complete a standardized test covering school superintendent skills. The ETS exam includes multiple-choice questions on administrative leadership, educational leadership, and instructional leadership. Because the requirements for licensure vary by jurisdiction, prospective school superintendents should review the process in their state.

Educational Leadership Careers and Outlook

An educational leadership master's degree can lead to education careers outside traditional classroom settings. Some careers may require additional education, certification, or licensure. For example, some districts may prefer library media specialists with library science degrees, concentrations, or certifications.

Graduates of educational leadership programs often have teaching licensure and experience in the classroom. However, candidates without these credentials should consider administrative internships to gain experience and enhance their resumes.

The following careers are a few options for master's in educational leadership graduates.

Take a closer look at some of these options for educators interested in pursuing advanced roles.

Educational Leadership Jobs

Earning a master's in educational leadership prepares graduates for leadership roles in K-12 and higher education. At the K-12 level, graduates can work as school principals, instructional coordinators, and superintendents.

Instructional Coordinators

• Median Salary: $66,490
• Projected Job Growth 2022-2032: +2%

Instructional coordinators manage school curricula and teaching standards. Also known as curriculum specialists, these professionals review state and federal standards to create course schedules.

Working closely with principals and teachers, instructional coordinators implement curricula, develop educational materials, conduct teacher training workshops, and analyze data related to the course schedule effectiveness.

Instructional coordinators may also create teaching training procedures. Some instructional coordinators specialize in certain grade levels or subjects. For example, they can concentrate in special education or English as a second language.

School Principals

• Median Salary: $101,320
• Projected Job Growth 2022-2032: +1%

School principals oversee school operations at the K-12 level. They manage teachers and staff, establish class schedules, and coordinate curricula. As the highest administrator at a school, principals set academic goals for the institution and ensure teachers receive the resources they need to meet goals.

Principals analyze student achievement data to prepare reports and modify curricula. These professionals typically work with vice principals, instructional coordinators, and superintendents to manage schools. They oversee budgets and allocate resources, along with hiring and evaluating teachers.

School Administrators

• Median Salary: $99,940
• Projected Job Growth 2022-2032: +4%

School administrators manage student services, academics, and other departments. Many administrators work in higher education, where they oversee admissions, the registrar's office, and student affairs.

In these roles, school administrators analyze school needs to determine how to best meet them, promote the school's programs to prospective and current students, and provide information on financial aid support.

In student affairs, school administrators advise learners, create programs, and schedule student services. As administrators, they may supervise staff. Many school administrator jobs require a master's degree and experience teaching or working in an educational environment.

Popular Questions About Master's in Educational Leadership

Is a master's in educational leadership worth it.

A master's in educational leadership may be worth the time and cost investment for professionals looking to enter supportive educational roles. Teachers typically pursue these programs when ready to move outside the classroom. Educational leadership roles keep educators close to teachers, students, and instruction while allowing them to take on greater responsibilities in schools and districts.

What is the difference between an educational leadership program and management education?

An educational leadership program teaches educators the theory and practice of supporting schools, teachers, and students, along with advancing the field. These programs are best for future principals or other administrative roles in education. In contrast, management education suits future business leaders, like financial directors or project managers by building skills for improving business operations, collaboration, and decision-making.

What is a master's in educational leadership?

A master's in educational leadership prepares teachers and other educators for administrative roles in schools and districts, like principals and instructional coordinators. These 30-36 credit graduate programs typically take 1-2 years to complete.

What can you do with an educational leadership degree?

An educational leadership degree can lead to various supportive roles beyond the classroom, such as superintendents and academic directors. Curriculum developers, special education coordinators, and educational consultants also pursue these degrees.

How much do education administrators make?

The BLS reports that education administrators working in colleges and universities earn a median annual salary of $99,940. However, salaries vary significantly among schools and positions. For example, administrators transitioning into department head roles often receive salary increases.

Page last reviewed June 15, 2023. All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the TBS Rankings Team .

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Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

The USC Rossier EdD in Educational Leadership online (EDL online) program prepares you to be a leader in various sectors of education.

Designed to accommodate your schedule as a working professional, the three-year program will train you to become a critically conscious leader with the skills to address inequities in education.

Students pursuing their online doctorate in education must have a master’s degree, a minimum of three years of relevant full-time work experience and leadership experience. The EDL online program offers four concentrations for students to develop knowledge and expertise in a specific discipline: 

• K-12 Leadership in Urban School Settings 
• Leading Instructional Change
• Higher Education Administration
• Educational Psychology

Request information about the EdD in Educational Leadership online program.

Become a Leader in Education

The EdD in Educational Leadership online program will prepare you to: 

• Critically reflect on the way your position in society and worldview supports or impedes your ability to lead effectively.
• Analyze institutional oppression and develop strategies to advance equity. 
• Drive organizational improvement and ensure compliance with laws, policies and mandates. 
• Use evidence-based research to improve practice for all learners. 
• Model high standards of ethical practice. 

Learn more about our online EdD.

Online EdD Curriculum

To earn your online doctorate in education, you must complete coursework consisting of four components: core courses, concentration courses, research methods courses and the dissertation in practice. 

The dissertation in practice is a doctoral dissertation with a more practical focus than a traditional dissertation. Under the guidance of faculty in your concentration, you will apply relevant research methods to tackle a problem of practice that impedes access to equitable educational opportunities and outcomes.

The purpose of the dissertation in practice is to equip students earning their online EdD with the knowledge and skills to address existing problems in the workplace well beyond your completion of the program.

Program Specifications

The EdD in Educational Leadership online program requires a minimum of 43 units. The program can be completed in three years with two courses in most semesters. 

Online Learning Experience

Classes are conducted live in a real-time virtual classroom environment. The live sessions are facilitated by faculty and include highly interactive, engaging and collaborative discussions. Prior to attending live sessions, you will complete assignments submitted through the learning management system.

Take the next step in your career. Request information about our online EdD program in educational leadership.

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Summer 2024 graduate scholarship award.

The Master of Educational Leadership program at the University of Cincinnati Online will provide you with real-world skills and knowledge to help you on your path to pursue an educational administrative or leadership role. This program prepares licensed educators to become strong leaders within educational organizations. With three main concentrations, choose the track that best fits your career goals. Concentrations for this program include Principal Leadership, and General Administration & Policy.

University of Cincinnati’s Master of Educational Leadership Program

The online Master of Education in Educational Leadership program is committed to serving the needs of schools throughout Ohio and the nation. Our program is ideal for licensed educators looking to further develop their knowledge and skills to enhance learning and to expand their earning potential through higher-level academic administration or leadership education roles.

Educational Leadership Program Concentrations:

• Principal Leadership : gain the tools to be a successful principal within a school or school district.
• Special Education Leadership:   focuses on the legal and ethical roles and responsibilities of a professional within the field of special education.
• General Administration & Policy: study educational leadership with or without an educational/professional background through our non-licensure track.

Quick Program Stats:

• Graduation rate: 98%  (2022)
• Historical licensure exam pass rates: 96% (2021).

What Will I Learn in an Online Master of Educational Leadership Program?

In this top-ranked program, you’ll:

• Discover the theories and practices of educational leadership and organizational behaviors in school systems.

• Gain hands-on experience through internships that will familiarize you with the roles and responsibilities of a principal.

• Examine current economic theories, sources of revenues, and trends in the fiscal structure and operations of public education.

University to Business Scholarship Program

If you are an employee or member of one of our partner organizations, you may be eligible for a tuition scholarship.

Is UC Online right for me?

Learn from real-world faculty.

The faculty at UC are relevant, inspiring, supportive and connected.

“If I'm going to do something, I want to be the best that I can be at it. I didn’t need another degree in my life at age. What I wanted was to be good at my job and I wanted to make sure that I had the professional development that would set me up for success. This drive to be successful in educational leadership is what brought me to earn my Master’s of Education in Educational Leadership at UC Online.”

Trish Miller MEd Educational Leadership

“I contacted a lot of schools about this program and ultimately decided on UC because of cost and proximity to where I lived. I also wanted a good school that everyone knows provides a great education. I'm happy with my choice. I chose online work because of the flexibility that comes with online classes. I am a mother and a teacher and had to fit in my classes when I had the time without taking time from my family. Every single professor communicated well with the students. They all replied in a timely manner and were open to using whatever means necessary. Using the discussion boards was a great way to communicate with other students and get to know them and their ideologies. ”

Kristie K. M.Ed. in Educational Leadership Graduate

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A Master’s in Educational Leadership can lead to a variety of rewarding careers, which include:

• School Principals
• School District Leadership
• Community and State Agency Administration
• Foundation and Think-Tank Leadership
• Federal Level Policymaking and Research
• Educational Consultants
• Special Education Specialists

Programs can be completed full-time or part-time. Many programs are set up to be part-time, with most containing fewer than 10 credit hours in any given semester. We know you have a lot going on, so want to make sure that school can fit into your schedule. Note: There are some exceptions.

No. your degree will be conferred by the University of Cincinnati, which will also be reflected on your transcripts and degree.

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Master of Educational Leadership

GRADUATE PROGRAM

30 total credits | average 2 years to complete

Summer 2024

Become an Innovative Leader in Education 

For educators ready to take a more defined leadership role in their school or district, an online Master’s in Educational Leadership opens up new opportunities by equipping you with the knowledge, skills, and competencies to be a reflective leader. Our faculty’s expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion provides unique insight into the study of the cultural, political, economic, and social realities of education and school. This perspective on complex educational issues allows you to inclusively lead at the building or district level. Wake Forest University strives to support our local schools and educators. That is why current North Carolina teachers benefit from a *$5,000 automatic scholarship (a nearly 15% tuition discount) when they enroll. 

The flexibility of our online courses allow you to obtain your degree on your schedule and at your own pace. Prepare to serve the students of tomorrow while you continue to work with the students of today.   

Career Prospects and Outcomes

With a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, avenues open for teachers to advance their career in many roles such as:

• Assistant Principal
• Assistant Superintendent 
• Area Superintendent
• Curriculum Director 
• Learning and Development Coordinator/Manager 
• Chief Officer (Human Resources, Instructional, Operations, Academics, etc.)
• Employee Trainer/Training Manager
• Director of Online Education
• Adjunct Professor

Apply now, and develop the skills to facilitate sustainable change in the school you serve.  

Core Courses

The Education Leadership program comprises of 9 core courses. Students must begin the EL  program with EDL 710-Foundations of Educational Leadership. Outside of pre-requisites, there is no prescribed order for the courses, you may take them in the order that works for you when your selection is available.

Students will need complete 12 credit hours, and have permission of the academic director prior to enrolling in the internship courses. Students will have a choice on taking: EDL 732 Internship: School Executive II or  CUI 799 Capstone in Education.

Foundations of Educational Leadership

Students will be introduced to foundational concepts and challenges of educational leadership. The course will include a focus on school-level leadership and accountability, roles and responsibilities, and the principles of educational leadership. This course is a prerequisite for all other courses in the Education Leadership degree program, but can be taken as an elective in other programs.

What You’ll Learn

• Identify core competencies, current practices, and emerging trends in educational leadership, including issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Explain, reflect, and assess how educational leadership functions in administrative, operational, managerial, financial, and strategic aspects of school administration.
• Analyze, devise, and implement refined approaches that address challenges common with school leadership.

2023 Spring

Instructional Leadership

This course explores various strategies for instructional leadership, including coaching and mentoring, and their relationship to educational leadership and positive teaching and learning outcomes. The course will emphasize the skills to build productive relationships and effective mentoring among educators, and consensus-building among a course design team.

• Evaluate components of instructional leadership, grounded in standards-based teaching, through analysis of experiences and course materials.
• Develop inclusive teaching strategies to design and implement curriculum.
• Design processes that applies evidence-base methods that includes constructive feedback and coaching for teachers based on assessments.

Social Foundations of Education

A critical examination of the political, social, and economic goals of schooling and their intersection with educational equality and student diversity through the lens of educational philosophy and positionality with a view to developing a culturally responsive multicultural pedagogical praxis that enhances student success.

• Critically evaluate the goals of schooling and analyze the philosophical perspectives that determine educational policy and practice.
• Define and critique the role of positionality (race, class, gender, etc.) in educational outcomes.
• Apply strategies to transform instructional design and improve student achievement through the use of culturally responsive multicultural pedagogical methods that value diversity and inclusion.

Using Research and Data to Lead School Improvement

This course focuses on using data to enhance equitable decision-making processes for comprehensive school improvement, including instruction, school culture, and community involvement. Emphasis in the course will include use of assessment and research data to identify school improvement needs and to design projects that respond to those needs.

• Identify and understand relevant data sources and data collection techniques to improve student learning outcomes and reflect on barriers to using research and data.
• Analyze and design school improvement projects using various data sets.
• Develop strategies for building a high performance research and data culture.

Education Law and Ethics

This course explores legal and ethical responsibilities of the school leader and implications of federal, state, and local education policies, including statutes, regulations, and risks. Course topics will emphasize regulations and responsibilities in areas such as special education, confidentiality, liability, due process, search and seizure, employment matters, and church/state conflicts.

• Analyze and discuss laws and litigation related to K-12 education, including special education, at the state and national level.
• Describe and discuss legal and ethical issues of educators, students, and families relevant for K-12 public education.
• Explain and reflect on how educational leaders can promote the success of every student by acting with integrity, fairness and in an ethical manner.

Administration, Supervision, and Community

This course introduces students to organizational theories, the politics of education, and building safe, supportive, and inclusive environments in schools and communities. Students will be reflective of various administrative and organizational theories and how these concepts inform their practice as school leaders. The course will also focus on distributive leadership, developing skills for team management, and collaborative analysis of community building.

• Describe and analyze organizational theories and frameworks in education.
• Explore and evaluate the supervisor’s role in supporting and enhancing staff development and employment issues.
• Reflect and explain leadership styles, including opportunities and challenges to creating and sustaining supportive and inclusive environments where teachers, school personnel, students, and their support networks can thrive.

Human Resources and School Finance

Students will be introduced to the management of an organization’s workforce planning through the design and implementation of effective human resources policies and procedures, as well as financial implications. This content includes processes and systems related to performance management, talent management, diversity, and employee wellness.

• Identify and describe current activities and theories relevant to human resources management.
• Develop knowledge and skills to address human resources management and school finance issues.
• Analyze change interventions at the organization, group/department, and individual level.

Internship: School Executive I

This course, part 1 of two courses, provides a practical introduction to executive school leadership by engaging in activities with school leaders. These two courses are composed of a two-semester internship in a public school setting in order to give students opportunities to learn in the field. The student’s internship will be supervised jointly by school-based administrators and SPS academic director and will include a reflective evaluation.

Prerequisite: Completion of 12 hours of SPS coursework, including Foundations of Educational Leadership, and with permission of the academic director.

• Illustrate potential solutions to a school-related problem.
• Evaluate and categorize the duties of school administration in an approved school setting.
• Create an electronic educational leadership internship portfolio in accordance with the specifications provided.

Internship: School Executive II

This course, part 2 of two courses, builds on the skills of executive school leadership by engaging in activities with school leaders. These two courses are composed of a two-semester internship in a public school setting in order to give students opportunities to learn in the field. The student’s internship will be supervised jointly by school-based administrators and SPS academic director and will include a reflective evaluation.

Prerequisite: Completion of 12 hours of SPS coursework, including Foundations of Educational Leadership and Internship: School Executive I, and with permission of the academic director.

• Apply, practice and refine the knowledge and skills acquired from course work.
• Identify and solve a school-related problem.
• Engage in the assigned duties of administering the school in an approved public school setting.
• Complete and analyze an educational leadership internship portfolio in accordance with the specifications provided.

Capstone in Education

Designed for all education students, this course aims to provide opportunities for students to gain real-world experience. Students will identify, analyze, and develop curricula or leadership theory and demonstrate effective practices by engaging one data point (i.e., student achievement). The capstone will also include examining the standards and exploring how to teach the standards. Additionally, students will have opportunities to put their knowledge into practice through professional shadowing and individual or group projects with key educational leaders.

Prerequisite for Education Leadership students: Completion of 12 hours of SPS coursework, including Foundations of Educational Leadership, and with permission of the academic director. This course is typically for students from states that do not require ‘Internship: School Executive II.’

• Identify, analyze, and develop curricula and/or educational leadership theory and demonstrate effective practices by engaging one essential data point aimed at school improvement.
• Explain and demonstrate reflective practices to improve teaching and leadership for themselves and others.
• Employ and evaluate strategies, planning practices, assessment techniques, and appropriate accommodations to ensure student learning in a standards-based curriculum and communicate those plans to parents, guardians, professionals, administrators, and the community.

Elective Course Options

Students may choose 1 elective course. You may take the course at any time your selection is available.

Assessment and Evaluation

This course is designed to introduce students to the variety of assessment and evaluation techniques and their purpose, including how these techniques are used in instructional planning, decision-making, and curriculum development.

• Understand and explain concepts of assessment and evaluation.
• Design and construct assessments.
• Apply assessment and evaluation principles in evaluating individual, group, and institution priorities.

Instructional Design and Digital Learning Technologies

A comprehensive exploration of instructional design frameworks, including best practices with design, development, and evaluation of these frames. Students will get to practice working in traditional instructional design frameworks (ADDIE, Gange’s), more modern frameworks (Agile, SAM), along with collaborative frameworks (Co-Design, Design Justice). This course will provide an overview of the digital tools, techniques, opportunities and challenges associated with learning technologies and leading teams. The course will also introduce learning technology applications, provide tools to evaluate learning technology solutions and related multimedia learning design models, address digital accessibility, and engage in best instructional technology practices. The course provides the opportunity to explore various online learning tools.

• Explore and evaluate instructional design frameworks and learning technology solutions, including learning theories and their impact on the design of learning experiences.
• Describe and define instruction, design an instructional product, prepare learner and context analysis, and develop instructional strategies and learning outcomes.
• Plan and design equitable and inclusive curricula using technology-enhanced learning experiences techniques

Differentiated Instruction

This course will focus on the practice of differentiating instruction as a way for educators to meet diverse learning needs and preferences without having to individualize instruction for every student. In this course, students learn how to differentiate five instructional elements—content, product, process, affect, and learning environment—according to students’ interests, readiness, and learning profile. Using their classroom curriculum, they plan and implement differentiated lessons and align them to important learning goals, essential questions, and formative and summative assessments while ensuring that their instruction includes meaningful applications of knowledge. Students also learn how to draw on internal and external resources to support holistic learning processes.

• Synthesize knowledge of diverse learners that incorporates strategies for multiple intelligences, disabilities, gifted or talented, gender sensitivities, and cultural awareness.
• Plan and implement differentiated lessons and align them to important learning goals and priorities.
• Utilize assessment data to plan instruction that is differentiated based on analyses.

Curriculum Mapping for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

This course will focus on curriculum mapping, the practice of ensuring that teaching is structured in a meaningful and logical sequence to build knowledge and achieve desired curricular outcomes. This process includes charting and tracking academic program priorities and redundancies, and identifying educational gaps. Students will learn about long-term planning for vertical and comprehensive learning to proactively address learning gaps and misalignments.

The course will also provide technical guides of a curriculum mapping process with a specific focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and outcomes.

• Explore diversity, equity, and inclusion language and goals in education
• Describe differentiated educational goals and outcomes for teaching and learning
• Develop and evaluate a curriculum map and identify revisions needed for improvement

Meet the Education Leadership Faculty

Adam Dovico, EdD.

Wake Forest University

Kate Kieres, Ed.D.

Newton Miller, Ph.D.

Tanya Skalecki, J.D.

Dan Shepherd, Ed.D.

The People Behind the Program

To accelerate your career growth, reach your professional goals, and expand your network, we created the Educational Leadership Programmatic Advisory Board (PAB) to bring knowledge from experts in the field into the classroom. These board members are committed to your academic excellence and keeping Wake Forest University School of Professional Studies graduates industry – competitive and globally impactful.  

Nicolette Grant

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools

Dr. Beverly Emory Britton

Ann Blakeney Clark

Stephanie Keaney, MBA

North Carolina Association of Independent Schools

Selecting a program that fits your needs and career goals is a big decision. We are here to help you understand if our Educational Leadership program meets your needs. Please review this checklist and let your student success manager know what questions you have. We are here to help!

• A bachelor’s degree transcript from an accredited college or university*

Also, candidates must complete a virtual or written interview with a Student Success Manager.

*An unofficial transcript is acceptable for admission; an official transcript is due by the start of the first course. 

Wake Forest University strives to support our local schools and educators. That is why current North Carolina teachers benefit from a $5,000 automatic scholarship (a nearly 15% tuition discount) when they enroll. 

Leading Diverse Schools

Leading diverse schools: an emphasis on evidence-based knowledge and professional skills to lead diverse, equitable, and inclusive teams across various family and school demographics.  Wake Forest has strong pedagogical expertise in the area of culturally responsive teaching and multicultural education, and the WFU Department of Education is committed to equitable and socially-just educational opportunities for all students.

Creative Problem-Solving

Creative problem-solving: a foundation for addressing the challenges faced by many schools that are working to improve student achievement while maintaining student safety. Wake Forest offers courses in Design Thinking that use design as a practical everyday process to spur innovation and effective implementation.

Distributive Leadership and Sustainable Change

Distributive leadership and sustainable change: a set of skills to address capacity-building,  coaching, and leading change in complex systems. SPS has courses that emphasize the gaining of the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to successfully undertake change efforts that result in organizational transformation. 

Wake to What's Next

Educational Leadership

Instructional leaders make a difference.

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Fill out the form below to get in touch with an enrollment counselor.

Educational Leadership, M.Ed. Overview

The online master of education in educational leadership degree program from the University of West Florida will prepare you for a variety of administrative and supervisory positions in public, private and other school settings. The curriculum was designed to meet the 10 Florida Principal Leadership Standards and associated competencies and seeks to prepare students for the Florida Educational Leadership Exam. Passing scores on the FELE are required prior to graduation.

With faculty who are themselves highly experienced educators, you will gain valuable mentors and leadership resources during the 18-month duration. Our program was voted #5 for the Best Online Master’s of Educational Leadership Programs 2022 by TheBestSchools.org and #6 for master’s in educational leadership programs 2022 by Intelligent.com.

The program’s collaborative learning environment utilizes live video sessions that are recorded and six- to eight-week courses that allow you to focus on one class at a time.

Hear from our faculty and a former student on the details and benefits of enrolling in UWF’s Educational Leadership, M.Ed. program: View the video here.

In our online educational leadership master’s program, you will study key topics such as:

• Theories and practices used to increase human relations and communications in an educational institution
• Improving learning programs through effective human resources
• The various laws and policies related to education
• Principles, trends, practices and financial support systems used in financing public education
• Issues, practices and theories relevant to school administration
• The tools and concepts used to evaluate student learning outcomes and progress
• Foundations of curriculum development
• Usage of student achievement data to develop curricula and learning environments that will further enhance student learning

Candidates for This Program Include:

• Those wanting to improve the educational experience for their school’s students
• Current teachers who wish to pursue an administrative role, such as principal, dean or district supervisor
• Students seeking an educational leadership role in Florida

Learning Outcomes

• Promote student-centered achievement and learning
• Model and participate in shared governance based upon data-driven decision making
• Develop a positive school culture and healthy climate
• Mentor and guide teachers in their professional growth and leadership
• Model ethical and collegial leadership behaviors for your teachers and stakeholders
• Support continuous school improvement efforts for the benefit of all stakeholders

Accreditation

The M.Ed. in Educational Leadership is accredited based on the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) Standards through Spring 2025. CAEP is the only CHEA recognized national accreditor for educator preparation.

CAEP’s annual outcome and impact measures and their trends, candidate performance data, and additional accreditation information is available on the UWF School of Education web page .

Courses and Requirements

UWF’s online educational leadership master’s program includes a total of 30 credit hours, through which you’ll explore the advanced skills including school finance, law and curriculum development.

3 Credit Hours

Leadership in Education: Theory and Practice

Leadership theories and planning models which have been developed through studies in education, business, industry, and the military will be examined. The subject matter, class activities, and skill developments of this course were selected to assist your personal growth. The success of educational leaders is conditioned largely by their ability to lead faculty, staff, and other constituencies through appropriate human relationships and leadership techniques. Application will focus on both personal and professional leadership development.

Introduction to Educational Leadership

An introduction for graduate students to the educational leadership program. Major topics will be leadership, William Cecil Golden Modules, code of ethics, verbal and nonverbal communication and interpersonal skills. Permission is required.

Administration of School Personnel

Focus is on the improvement of educational programs through the proper management of human resources. Emphasis is upon recruitment, selection placement and evaluation of school personnel.

Law and Education

Examines law and its relationship to education. Students study constitutional law, legislative enactments, school policies and the relationships among these aspects of school law as they pertain to administration. Tort liability, due process for students, corporal punishment, teacher contracts and other law relating to authority and responsibility of teachers and administrators are included.

Introduction to School Finance

Focus is on principles, trends and practices in financing public education, including federal, state and local financial support programs. School finance as related to taxation and other areas of school finance is included. Fiscal policies, planning and management as related to the total education program are central themes.

The Principalship

Students will focus on problems, practices and theories pertinent to the success of building level administrators in elementary, middle and high schools. This course includes planning, staffing, implementation and evaluation techniques necessary to administer an effective school program. Practicum experiences are designed to provide a clinical setting for the demonstration of theory applied to practice and will be an integral part of the course. Prerequisite: EDA 6063.

Instructional Leadership

This course focuses on problems, practices, and theories pertinent to the success of building-level administrators in elementary, middle, and high schools. Students will have the opportunity to learn through real case studies, role plays and simulations reflecting the real work of school principals. By aligning the specific knowledge and skill dimensions, candidates will learn to contextualize theories and how they will apply as future instructional leaders.

Principles of Curriculum

Emphasis on school curricula, underlying theories, and strategies for improvement make up the foundation for curricular reform. Students intending to meet FDOE certification requirements should select specialization areas. The specialization areas are (a) early childhood/ primary education, (b) middle school education, (d) secondary school education, and (e) exceptional student education.

Data Driven Decisions Using Standardized Student Achievement Data

Using data to drive decisions is a critical component of the accountability system currently in place in Florida. Participants will develop skills in determining data needed to make certain decisions; in analyzing data and in communicating information about the decision making process to stakeholders. This course is designed specifically for administrators in the K-12 educational setting.

Human Relations and Communication in Education

Theoretical and experiential framework for maximizing human relations and communication within the educational domain including principles of persuasion, public information management, effective communication strategies and personal effectiveness with staff and the public.

Some UWF academic programs prepare students to sit for licensure in Florida. In order to comply with U.S. Department of Education regulations for professional licensure, UWF is required to make the following disclosure with respect to professional licensure outside the state of Florida. UWF cannot confirm whether a particular program meets requirements for professional licensure outside of the State of Florida. Please contact applicable licensure board(s) in any state you may want to pursue licensure prior to beginning the academic program in order to determine whether the program meets licensure requirements. It is the student’s responsibility to confirm program eligibility for licensure in any state outside Florida.

Admission Requirements

To be considered for admission into UWF’s online master’s in educational leadership program, you must:

• Have a valid professional teaching certification issued by Florida or another U.S. state
• Have a minimum of two years (three years preferred) of k-12 teaching experience
• Have earned a GPA of at least 3.0 on bachelor’s degree*

* Applicants who do not meet the GPA requirement, but meet all remaining admission requirements, may be conditionally admitted to the program. Specific academic requirements will be established by Teacher Education and Educational Leadership and monitored by the Graduate School (see Conditional Admission in the Admissions section of the catalog).

How to Apply

To apply for admission to this program, you first need to submit an application for graduate admission (plus a $30 application fee) and be accepted for admission into University of West Florida. In addition, you must:

• Submit official transcripts confirming a bachelor’s degree from an institution whose accrediting agency is included on the list of UWF approved accrediting agencies
• Submit a letter of intent that includes the following information: your background, short- and long-term goals, contributions you would like to make to your field of study and strengths you bring to the program
• Submit contact information (email addresses and phone numbers) for two professional references
• “Instructional expertise” means documented successful demonstration of the core standards for effective educators outlined in the Florida Educator Accomplished Practices and a documented track record of achieving student gains. Acceptable documentation of instructional expertise must include a rating of effective or higher on the Performance of Students and Instructional Practice sections of the candidate’s two most recent performance evaluations per Section 1012.34, F.S. For candidates who are not employed by a Florida public school district, a post-secondary institution or school district may accept alternative equivalent documentation demonstrating two years of effective instruction with a record of student learning gains.
• “Leadership potential” means the critical skills and dispositions that a candidate must demonstrate prior to entering the program. At a minimum, these qualifications must include an analysis of the candidate’s relentless focus on improving student achievement in their own classrooms and contributing to the demonstrable improvement of teaching effectiveness in the classrooms of colleagues.

To be fully admitted to the program, the following requirements must be met in addition to the requirements for provisional admission (above). Full admission is required by the fifth week of the first semester. Students will be unable to register for a second semester of coursework until full admission has been granted.

• Purchase and activation of a subscription to the College of Education and Professional Studies assessment system within the first week of the first semester
• Completion of the Professional Education Applicant Disposition Scale by each person identified as a professional reference.
• Completion of the Professional Education Applicant Disposition Self-rating Scale.

Have questions about this program or the admissions process? Connect with one of our knowledgeable enrollment counselors.

Costs & Financial Aid

Time to completion for the master’s in educational leadership degree varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Fees are charged per semester unless otherwise noted. This program takes up to four semesters to complete, depending on transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of time to completion, call an enrollment advisor at 844.372.9390 or request information .

Refer to UWF  Cost of Attendance Estimates  and  Financial Literacy  for more information on UWF costs and financial aid.

* Tuition and fees are subject to change.

Military Students

UWF proudly serves active duty U.S. military members and veterans. As UWF has been a participant of the Yellow Ribbon Program since 2011, you could be eligible to receive free tuition with your military benefits.

Financial Aid

Funding your college education should not empty your wallet. We offer various financial aid options for our online students, including loans, scholarships and grants for degree-seeking students.

Career Outcomes

Upon completion of our educational leadership master’s program, you can pursue a variety of careers within the field.

* Salary and job outlook information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics .

Assistant Principal — Elementary, Middle and High School

Assistant principals are largely responsible for carrying out a principal’s decisions. They’re heavily involved in administrative tasks as well as disciplinary issues with students, helping them replace negative behaviors with positive actions and attitudes. According to PayScale.com, the average assistant principal salary is $72,823.

Education Administrator, K–12

Administrators are responsible for a school’s operations and instructional leadership. You’ll develop learning resources, academic programs, procedures, budgets and reports while working closely with teachers, counselors, and other support staff to ensure learning objectives are being met. The mean annual wage for education administrators is $100,340.

Literacy and Reading Coach (Instructional Coordinator)

Instructional coordinators develop curricula and instructional material and manage teaching standards. They analyze student data, evaluate curriculum effectiveness, and train teachers and staff on new school programs. Through 2031, employment is projected to increase 7 percent, and the median annual wage is $63,740.

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Program at a Glance

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• Out of State Tuition

Learn more about the cost to attend UCF.

Harness modern instructional practices and spearhead change.

The world of education is dynamic, and it requires bold leadership to continue to advance. With an ever-changing landscape that demands constant innovation and positive change, a higher degree in educational leadership will allow you to solve big problems and transform lives.

When you earn your online master’s in educational leadership from UCF Online, you’ll use your insight, research and knowledge to weigh in on the shifting paradigms within the field. This program will equip you with the distinct skills you need to emerge as a true leader, including an understanding of contemporary concerns, evaluation practices, diversity in education, legal aspects of school operation and more.

Regardless of whether you’re establishing your career within charter and private schools, corporate human resource environments, museums and experiential learning settings, or any other context, you’ll be prepared to step into a dynamic role on the forefront of transformative educational growth. You can complete your degree from UCF Online in as little as two years. Get started today.

This program does not lead to Florida Educational Leadership Administration Certification Level 1.

Application Deadlines

Ready to get started, course overview, leadership in educational organizations.

This course addresses leadership, organization, and administrative knowledge and skills needed by leaders, directors, and management.

Personnel and Education Related Law

This course includes up to date national laws, legal cases, and federal policies related to personnel, students, and education organizations.

Digital Leadership and Systems Management

Addressed in this course are leadership for learning, teaching, data analysis, communication, and decision making across geographic boundaries.

Skills You'll Learn

• Interpret law and policies focusing on different education settings.
• Understand and manage education funding.
• Recruit and retain high quality education professionals.

Career Projections

Annual Job Openings

Job Growth Between 2019 - 2029

Source: Lightcast™ . 2023

Career Opportunities

• College Provost
• Dean of Students
• District Administrator
• Instructional Coordinator
• Human Resources Administrator

Related Online Programs

• Secondary Education, MEd - Science Education
• Secondary Education, MEd - Mathematics Education
• Secondary Education, MEd - English Language Arts

2024 Best Online Masters in Educational Leadership Programs

If you have your sights set on becoming a school principal, then it may be time to earn a masters in educational leadership.

This degree program can also be useful for careers in curriculum planning, early childhood administration, and higher education.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

An educational leadership program can help you learn how to be an effective administrator. It can give you the opportunity to gain invaluable tools that can help you create a welcoming school environment for students and staff and make a lasting difference in your community.

Universities Offering Online Masters in Educational Leadership Degree Program

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

California State University – East Bay

California State University—East Bay offers a Master of Science in Educational Leadership that can be earned completely online. The degree can typically be finished in 18 months. It includes 30 units of courses such as Leading for Social Justice and Equity in Urban Schools, Issues in Educational Leadership, and Collaborative Research for Equity.

Cal State East Bay is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Clemson University

Clemson University offers an online program for a Master of Education in Educational Leadership. New cohorts start every fall, with students taking one course at a time in 8 week terms. While there are deadlines to meet, the courses are otherwise asynchronous. This program is intended for those who already have at least 2 years of professional teaching experience.

Clemson University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Florida State University

Florida State University offers an MS in Educational Leadership and Policy. The program is online, and students can apply to begin in the fall, spring, or summer. Cohorts take two courses at a time each semester and typically finish in 2 years. Coursework includes Teacher Leadership Development, Planning Effective Instruction, Data Driven School Improvement, and more.

The Florida State University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

George Washington University

George Washington University offers a Master of Arts in Education and Human Development in Educational Leadership and Administration. Students take classes part-time with a cohort and typically graduate in 2 years. The program uses a hybrid of online and face-to-face instruction and includes internships and field experiences.

George Washington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Georgia College & State University

Georgia College and State University’s MEd in Educational Leadership can help classroom teachers pursue careers in administration. Students complete coursework online and can potentially finish in 1 year including the summer. A new cohort starts every August. The degree requires a total of 36 credit hours.

Georgia College & State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Harvard University

Harvard University offers a part-time, 2 year Master’s in Educational Leadership program. The program includes both synchronous and asynchronous components. It is mostly online, but students are required to come to campus for one summer residency. Students can choose between the PreK-12 Pathway or the Higher Education Pathway, depending on their career goals.

Harvard University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Indiana University – Bloomington

Indiana University—Bloomington offers a 100% online program for an MSEd in Educational Leadership. GRE and GMAT scores are not needed to apply, and prospective students can apply to begin in any semester. The program requires 36 credits of courses such as School Community Relations, Data-Informed Decision Making for School Leaders, and Legal Perspectives on Education.

Indiana University – Bloomington is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University offers an MEd in Educational Leadership. Students may choose from three concentrations: Coaching for Performance, Leadership in Urban Schools, or Leading Independent and Charter Schools. The latter two are available in a fully online format. Graduates are eligible to pursue GaPSC Tier I Leadership Certification.

Kennesaw State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Louisiana State University

Louisiana State University offers an online program for a Master of Education in Educational Leadership. The program requires a total of 39 credit hours. It consists of courses such as Understanding and Applying Research in Education, Ethics and Educational Leadership, and Administration of School Personnel. Students must also complete an internship.

Louisiana State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Minnesota State University – Moorhead

Minnesota State University—Moorhead offers an online program for an MS in Educational Leadership with a 100% job placement rate. The program is designed to prepare students for work in administrative positions in either K-12 schools or higher education institutions. Coursework is asynchronous to provide flexibility for working adults.

Minnesota State University – Moorhead is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Mississippi College

Mississippi College’s online MEd in Educational Leadership program can potentially be completed in just 1 year. Students are required to complete 36 credit hours. The curriculum consists of courses such as Introduction to Administrator Preparation, School Law, and Information Management Dimension of Leadership. Mississippi College provides a faith-based curriculum.

Mississippi College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Pennsylvania State University

Pennsylvania State University offers a Master of Education in Educational Leadership. There are three areas of emphasis to choose from: Teacher Leader, School Leader (with School Principal Certification in Pennsylvania), and School Leader (without Principal Certification). The program requires the completion of 30 credit hours of coursework and offers internship opportunities.

The Pennsylvania State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University offers an online program for an MEd in Educational Leadership with an Emphasis in Educational Policy. The program requires 36 credit hours of coursework and no thesis. The curriculum is designed to teach students how to apply scientific research to inform decisions and policies in the field of education.

Texas Tech University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida offers an online program for a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership. The program requires 30 credit hours of coursework and can potentially be completed in just 2 years. It is designed to prepare students for careers as district or school administrators, instructional coordinators, or similar roles.

The University of Central Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati offers a Master of Education in Educational Leadership. Three program concentrations are available: General Administration and Policy, Special Education Leadership, and Principal Leadership. Students are required to complete 30 credits of coursework and participate in internships to gain hands-on experience. The program can be started in the spring, summer, or fall.

UC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Florida

The University of Florida offers an MEd in Educational Leadership. The program includes a track leading to Florida Level 1 certification in educational leadership, as well as a non-certification track. Class sizes average just ten to fifteen students, and students can potentially finish in less than 2 years.

The University of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of New England

The University of New England offers a 100% online program for an MSEd in Educational Leadership. The program requires 30 credit hours of coursework and can potentially be finished in less than 2 years. It is designed to lead to Building Administrator 040 certification in Maine. Prospective students can apply to begin in the spring, summer, or fall. No GRE scores are needed to apply.

The University of New England is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

University of North Texas

The University of North Texas offers an online program for a Master of Education in Educational Leadership. The degree requires 10 courses. With the addition of one practicum course, students can also pursue a Principal as Instructional Leaders Certification. Practicum courses last for a full semester, but all other courses are offered in 8 week sessions.

UNT is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of West Florida

The University of West Florida offers an online program for an MEd in Educational Leadership. The program requires 30 credit hours of courses offered in 8 week terms, and students can potentially finish in 18 months. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for the Florida Educational Leadership Exam.

The University of West Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Western Governors University

Western Governors University offers an online program for a Master of Science in Educational Leadership. The program consists of 13 courses that most students can complete within 21 months. These courses include Leadership Foundations and Ethics, School Law, Leading Inclusive Schools, Datal Literacy and Evidence-Based Practices, and more.

Western Governors University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Online Masters in Educational Leadership Programs

Principals play an important leadership role in educational settings. These professionals lead both students and staff members. Becoming a principal usually requires specialized training. Having experience as a classroom teacher can be helpful for the role, but that’s not all that’s necessary for success.

In most cases, a graduate degree is essential. Educational leadership master’s degree programs can help you gain the necessary preparation. These degree programs may also qualify you to take industry exams and earn state certification.

The coursework for an educational leadership degree often covers:

• Budgeting and finance
• Curriculum development
• Diversity and multiculturalism
• Facility management
• Education law and ethics
• Human resource management
• Program planning
• Research and data analysis
• School and staff development

It’s common for educational leadership students to spend time in local schools. During practicums or internships, you may observe real-world school leaders and learn from how they do things. You may also get to try out your leadership skills in a supervised setting.

You may also need to complete a capstone project before graduation. This capstone will be a chance to put your classroom lessons into practice. A common capstone project for this degree is to solve a problem that schools or students face. As part of the process, you may conduct research or start a program to solve the problem.

Not all educational leadership programs are designed with principalship as the end goal. If you have a different career path in mind, you might be able to select a more appropriate concentration for your studies. Examples include programs for higher education administrators, athletic directors, and curriculum specialists.

If you have principal certification in mind, it’s important to pick a school that aligns with your state’s guidelines. Programs usually specify which states’ guidelines they meet. At the end of your studies, you may need to pass one or more professional exams as required by your state.

After completing the program, including any required internships and exams, you may be eligible to work as an assistant principal or a principal. Other potential jobs include lead teacher, instructional coordinator, or college registrar.

Common Online Masters Degree in Educational Leadership Concentrations

If your goal is to be a school principal, then you’ll want a program that prepares you for such a role. If you have a different leadership opportunity in mind, then you may be able to find a concentration track that’s a better fit.

These are some specializations that you might want to consider, depending on your personal career goals:

• Athletic Leadership : Studying human development, physical fitness, and facility management in an athletic leadership track could help you secure a position as an athletic director.
• Higher Education : A higher education track typically includes studies on curriculum planning, education law, and student affairs at the college level.
• Principal Licensure : This track can help you become a licensed K-12 school principal. These programs are often tailored to a particular state’s requirements.
• Special Education : A special education track will likely include courses in special ed law and behavior modification to prepare you to lead a special education department or become the head of a special needs school.
• Teacher Leadership : Teachers who want to become department chairs, curriculum directors, or community liaisons may benefit from this pathway.

Your school might also offer a generalist program that doesn’t lead to licensure. That may be a good choice if you want to provide educational leadership in a non-school setting.

Examples of careers in non-school settings include being the director of a childcare facility, a camp program, a museum education department, or a tutoring service.

Educational Leadership Careers & Salaries

Most master in educational leadership degree online programs focus on preparing students for principalship. After finishing this degree, you may qualify for your state’s principal credential.

With that certification in hand, you might work as an elementary school, junior high, or high school principal. Jobs are available in both public and private schools. In addition to head principals, many schools also have one or more assistant principals. Taking on the role of assistant principal might help you work toward the lead position.

Leadership roles are also available in facilities for young children. Earning a leadership degree could help prepare you to work as a preschool or daycare director. School superintendent is another top position in the field of education. Some principals eventually become district superintendents. To qualify, you might need to take additional classes beyond your master’s degree or apply for an extra certification.

Not everyone who gets a master’s degree in this field wants to leave the classroom. Getting a degree in educational leadership could also prepare you to be a leader among your fellow teachers. For example, you might receive a promotion to head teacher or department chair. Another possibility is pursuing a career as an instructional coordinator or a curriculum specialist.

Some programs focus on leadership for higher education. The degree may qualify you to work as a college administrator. Examples include positions in the registrar’s office, the student affairs department, or the admissions department. With experience, you might even become an academic dean or a school president.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , these are some of the careers you could pursue with an MS in Educational Leadership:

Jobs in education usually require state licenses, certificates, or endorsements. The educational and professional requirements for those credentials vary.

Masters Degree in Education Leadership Online Curriculum

You’ll probably need to take 10 to 13 classes to earn your educational leadership online masters degree. While the curriculum will vary from school to school, these are some examples of common courses taken for this degree.

• Community and Family Relations : This course typically focuses on fostering strong relationships between schools, families, and the community at large.
• Curriculum and Instruction : This class provides instruction in how to select and implement instructional materials that align with state standards and meet the needs of diverse learners.
• Diversity and Inclusivity : This class discusses how to build a welcoming community where all students—including those of different learning levels and socioeconomic backgrounds—feel capable, safe, and respected.
• Educational Data and Research : A class on quantitative and qualitative research, such as this, can help you learn how to conduct studies related to education and evaluate the results.
• Higher Education Leadership : You might spend one or more semesters studying law, finance, and administration for higher education settings.
• Human Resources and Relations : You may have a course on managing staff, resolving problems, and creating a welcoming workplace.
• Legalities of School Administration : A class on school law typically covers federal and state regulations related to student success and teacher employment.
• Role of the Principal : This foundational course on principalship explores the role of the principal and what it means to be a leader in a school setting.
• School Finance : A class on finance, covering topics like accounting and budgeting, can help prepare you for the business side of school leadership.
• Supervision and Evaluation : You may receive training in how to evaluate staff members’ job performances and provide effective feedback.

It’s common for educational leadership graduate programs to require the completion of 30 to 36 credit hours. Some of those hours may come from an internship or a practicum experience.

How to Choose an Online Educational Leadership Masters Program

A successful grad school experience starts with picking the right program. Everyone’s preferences are different, but considering the factors below can help you make the best decision.

• Accreditation : You may want to look not only for regional accreditation but also for programmatic accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
• Concentrations : Depending on your specific career goals, you may want a program that allows you to focus on sports leadership, principalship, curriculum planning, or higher education. There are also generalist tracks for people who don’t need a narrow focus.
• Licensure : Not all educational leadership programs are designed for licensure preparation. Those that are may be suitable only for residents of certain states.
• Requirements : Some schools may require you to complete a thesis, and others may require a capstone project. Internships and practicums may be involved as well.

Remember, different schools use different approaches to online education. Yours may have traditional semesters or accelerated, 8 week terms. The classes may be streamed live or use recorded materials.

Masters in Ed Leadership Admissions Requirements

For educational leadership graduate programs, you may need a specific set of credentials. To show that you’re a good candidate for this field of study, you may need to submit:

• Bachelor’s degree transcripts with a minimum GPA
• GRE scores (not required by all colleges)
• Letters of reference from school administrators or other professional supervisors
• Resume with several years of experience as a teacher, a school counselor, or another education professional
• Teaching license or other state certification from the education field

At many colleges, the admissions requirements may be different depending on the state where you live and work.

Educational Leadership Online Programs Accreditation

No matter which college you choose for an educational leadership master’s degree—whether on-campus or online—it is important to check if it is regionally accredited . Accreditation is almost universally accepted as the mark of a good, reputable school.

You are more likely to be able to transfer accredited coursework from one college to another. That might be something you need to do if you decide to change schools mid-program or want to go back for a second master’s degree later in life. Graduating with an accredited master’s degree may also qualify you for programs leading to a doctorate in educational leadership online or on campus.

Professional exams and licensure often require accredited college studies. Plus, hiring committees may look more favorably on resumes that list regionally accredited schools.

Educational Leadership Licensure and Certifications

Some master’s degree programs in educational leadership can prepare you for industry credentials. They vary based on the program you’re in and the state where you work.

Education leadership master’s programs commonly prepare students so they can earn their credentials to work as school principals. To earn this credential, you may have to pass an exam in addition to completing your graduate coursework.

In some states, you might be issued a principal license. Other states may add a principal endorsement to your teaching license. You may need a separate certification to work as a school superintendent. That could require additional coursework after completing your master’s degree.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

The school district where you currently work may help pay for your education master’s degree. Some districts offer partial reimbursement, and others may cover the full cost.

Government assistance can be valuable to grad students as well. You may receive low-interest loans from your state or through a federal aid program. As an educator, you might also be eligible for grants, but they are less common than loans. You can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to learn more about government programs.

The school you attend may offer you an institutional aid package that includes scholarship money. You may be able to supplement that assistance with scholarships from private organizations, such as professional educator groups or community philanthropists.

What Is a Masters in Educational Leadership?

A masters in educational leadership is a graduate degree for people in the teaching field. These programs are designed to cultivate students’ abilities to provide leadership in educational settings.

The classes in an educational leadership masters online program will likely focus on organizational structures, leadership theories, and staff development. Many people pursue this degree in order to become school principals or administrators. Others have in mind leadership roles in different learning environments, such as colleges, childcare centers, or tutoring programs.

What Can I Do with a Masters in Educational Leadership?

You might qualify to work as a school principal after getting this degree. Principals and assistant principals provide leadership in elementary, middle, and high schools, both public and private. Some oversee schools for children with disabilities or behavior disorders.

Other graduates stay in the classroom but assume greater leadership roles. For example, they may become department chairs. There’s also the option to take on a different role in a school setting. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that a master’s degree is an important step toward becoming an instructional coordinator. Working as an athletic director might be another option.

Is a Masters in Education Leadership Degree Hard?

For a master’s degree in educational leadership, you’ll take a variety of classes essential for the management of a school. They may cover topics like education law, staff supervision, community relations, and business practices.

Since this is a graduate-level program, you can also expect to have research courses. You’ll likely learn about quantitative and qualitative research. You may design your own research project, analyze the data, and share your findings in a report.

You may also be required to complete an internship that lasts one or more semesters. This can give you the opportunity to observe mentors in the field and gain feedback about your leadership style.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership?

The length of time it takes to complete your master’s degree depends on your school’s format and credit requirements. In general, though, most can be completed in 1.5 to 2.5 years if you’re a full-time student.

The fastest programs to complete are usually those with low credit requirements, short practicum experiences, and year-round accelerated classes. Schools that use accelerated calendars may have courses that are just 8 weeks long. If you have transfer credits from a previous graduate program, you may not have to complete as many classes, which can also speed up the process.

What’s the Difference between an MEd vs. Masters in Educational Leadership?

In this field, you might notice the option to get a Master of Education in Educational Leadership, also known as an MEd. That’s somewhat different from a Master of Science (MS) or a Master of Arts (MA) in Educational Leadership.

These are some of the differences:

Depending on your specific career goals, you may want to pursue an MEd in Education Leadership rather than an MS or an MA in Educational Leadership program online.

What’s the Difference between a Master Degree in Educational Leadership vs. Educational Administration?

Two similar areas of study are educational leadership and educational administration. Despite all they have in common, one might be better for you than the other.

If you can’t decide, you may want to look for a school that offers a combined leadership and administration program.

What’s the Difference between a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction vs. Educational Leadership?

In general, master’s programs in curriculum and instruction appeal to people with different career goals from those who choose educational leadership programs.

It’s sometimes possible to choose a curriculum concentration in an educational leadership program.

Is a Masters Degree in Education Leadership Online Worth It?

Yes, a masters degree in education leadership online is worth it for many students. School principals and other educational leaders play a key role in students’ learning. Earning this degree can help you develop the leadership skills needed to effectively be the head of academic programs for kids, teens, or even adults.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for school principals are growing at an 8% rate, and a master’s degree is usually required. Positions for college administrators are increasing at the same rate, and instructional coordinator jobs are experiencing 10% growth.

Getting Your Masters in Educational Leadership Online

If you’re passionate about education, it might be time to get a master’s degree in educational leadership. The program can help you increase your influence, and it may qualify you for promotions.

You may also want to think about getting your educational leadership masters online. Distance learning is especially appealing to busy teachers who can’t visit campus on a regular basis. With an accredited online degree in education program, you can get a high-quality education without quitting your job or upending your life. You can fit schoolwork in on the weekends, in the evenings, and over summer break.

To get started, you can research online educational leadership master’s programs to find the one that is right for you.

Certificate in Advanced Education Leadership (CAEL)

Additional Resources

• Request More Information

The Certificate in Advanced Education Leadership (CAEL) provides current and aspiring education leaders with the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and skills while working to address current problems of practice.

Additional details

Request more information.

Modules begin in February, May, and September. 

AASA members are eligible for an exclusive membership discount on this program. Please visit AASA's website for details.

In pre-K-12 education, we need transformational leaders whose passion for education quality and equity is matched by a knowledge of learning and development, the organizational management skills to translate visionary ideas into real-world success, and a firm grasp of the role of context and politics in shaping leadership.

Based on the groundbreaking Doctor of Education Leadership program, the Certificate in Advanced Education Leadership (CAEL) provides current and aspiring education leaders with the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and skills while working to address current problems of practice.

Certificate Details

A practice-based learn, apply, reflect model.

CAEL was designed not only to build the foundation knowledge necessary for visionary, system-wide leadership but to give participants the time and opportunity to step back from, assess, and address a pressing problem in their own practice. The first 4-5 weeks of each module center on in-depth learning on the focused topic area. During weeks 6 and 7, participants identify a problem they are working to solve and apply their learning to it. Weeks 8-12 are about pushing deeper on knowledge acquisition while demonstrating mastery in a project. Participants work in small learning groups, supported by an experienced facilitator, to deepen and extend their thinking and leadership skills.

A Rigorous, Flexible Experience

• 60 clock hours per module
• Asynchronous activities: choose when to complete them within a given week
• Direct support from an online learning facilitator and peer learning group
• Option for team-based enrollment and participation
• Certificate of mastery – it is highly facilitated, and you will have the opportunity to demonstrate your mastery through a project.

Led by HGSE faculty members, CAEL offers five distinct 12-week online modules that build competencies in self-, team-, and systemic leadership. Each of the five modules may be taken separately. A certificate of mastery is offered to those completing four of the five modules.

• Leading Learning: A CAEL Module
• Developing Myself: A CAEL Module
• Driving Change: A CAEL Module
• Leading for Excellence & Equity: A CAEL Module
• Managing Evidence: A CAEL Module

Faculty Chair

Elizabeth City

Through work on strategy, instructional improvement, and the future of learning, Liz City develops leaders with the skills, imagination, and collaboration necessary to build and re-build systems that serve each and every child well.

Who Should Attend

CAEL is ideal for current and aspiring preK-12 leaders:

• Superintendents and district-level administrators
• Directors of charter management organizations
• Administrators at state agencies
• Experienced principals and teachers who aspire to system-level roles
• Teams of education leaders seeking to strengthen their skills and collaborative capabilities
• Educators are encouraged to apply as teams to increase their impact

How to Participate

Taking cael modules as a team.

When you take one or more CAEL modules as a school, district, or organization-level team, you create a collective impact on learning in your system. Enrolling in CAEL as a team allows you to identify unified goals and objectives and apply what you learn together. Your team will work on a single, shared problem of practice across the 12 weeks, submitting a single midterm and final project that represents your collective effort. Along the way, you will also have the chance to submit individual assignments focused on personal learning.

Earning the Certificate

A Certificate in Advanced Education Leadership will be awarded to participants who complete four of the five modules, including Leading Learning and a final reflective assignment. All four courses must be taken within two years of starting. Please visit the application pages for each CAEL module below:

Pursuing HGSE Graduate Credit

Participants admitted to complete CAEL modules for graduate credit will complete a specialized version of the final activities during weeks 9-12. Participants should estimate an additional five hours of study during that period.

How to Apply

This program welcomes applications from both individuals and teams. First-time applicants need to create a Professional Education account to apply.

Individuals : Click the "Apply" button at the top of this page to log into your Professional Education account and access the application page. Proceed with the individual form until submission.

Step 1: Designate one participant or an administrative staff member as the Coordinator .

• The Coordinator should click the "Apply" button at the top of this page to log into their Professional Education account and access the application page.
• Proceed with the team form, including providing the name, email address, and job title of each participant in your team. 
• The Coordinator can choose to receive a team invoice.
• Contact us if you need to make any changes to your team after submitting the form.

Step 2: Upon the submission of the team application, all team members will receive an email notification with a link to their personal application form. Team members should complete their forms promptly. Once all team members submit their forms, the application is considered complete and ready for review by the Admissions Committee.

Invoices: Invoices will only be available upon your acceptance.

Tuition Assistance

Tuition assistance is available for the programs in this certificate on a need and application basis. Tuition assistance is granted based on participant and institutional needs. Requests for tuition assistance do not affect an applicant's prospects for admission. You may access the tuition assistance application after you have submitted your program application. Tuition assistance applications should be submitted at least one month prior to the final application deadline.

Considering this program?

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School of Education

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Educational Leadership, EdS

As a teacher, you have valuable experience that gives you a unique understanding of the challenges that students and schools face. Build upon those experiences as an administrator.

How you benefit

The IU Online EdS in Educational Leadership prepares you to take on leadership roles in your school, district, or educational organization. In this program, you are trained to:

• Promote the current and future success and well-being of all students.
• Apply your knowledge and skills to collaboratively lead, design, and implement a district mission, vision, and process.
• Foster continuous improvement at the district level which reflects a core set of values and priorities that include data use, technology, values, equity, diversity, digital citizenship, and community.
• Advocate for ethical decisions and cultivate professional norms and culture.
• Develop and maintain a supportive, equitable, culturally responsive, and inclusive district culture.
• Evaluate, design, cultivate, and implement coherent systems of curriculum, instruction, data systems, supports, assessment, and instructional leadership.
• Engage families, communities, and other constituents in the work of schools and the district and to advocate for district, student, and community needs.
• Develop, monitor, evaluate, and manage data-informed and equitable district systems for operations, resources, technology, and human capital management.
• Cultivate relationships, lead collaborative decision making and governance, and represent and advocate for district needs in broader policy conversations.

Admission Requirements

To be accepted to this program, you must have:.

• A bachelor's degree

To apply to this program, complete an online application that includes:

• Official transcripts from every college or university attended (except Indiana University)
• Statement of purpose (750-1000 words)
• Two letters of recommendation on official letterhead from current administrators (may include vice-principals, principals, and superintendents) addressing applicant’s potential for leadership
• Licensure information or documentation of at least two years of teaching experience

Application Dates

Fall semester: Aug 1

Spring semester: Jan 1

Summer 1 semester: May 1

Summer 2 semester: Jun 15

Program Requirements

To earn the EdS in Educational Leadership, you must complete 60 credit hours.

Requirements are broken down as follows:

• Building-level administrator requirements (24 credit hours)
• District-level administrator requirements (24 credit hours)
• Electives (9 credit hours)
• Leadership seminar (3 credit hours)

Below is a list of potential resources for graduate students.  Note: graduate assistantships are generally intended for students studying and working on the IU Indianapolis campus.

• Multiple  scholarships are available  to support IU School of Education in Indianapolis students.

Early Childhood Educators:  T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood ®   Indiana scholarships   are available for early childhood education professionals who work 30+ hours per week in Indiana.

• Consult your employer about the availability of tuition reimbursement or tuition assistance programs.

Your IU Online EdS in Educational Leadership prepares you for education administration careers at the preschool, elementary, secondary, and postsecondary levels. Job titles include:

• Director of education, academic director
• Director of student services
• Library director
• Department chair
• Health services director

Learn more about how to apply

Scholarships

T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® scholarships are available for early childhood education professionals who work 30+ hours per week in Indiana.

NO GRE REQUIRED

for applicants with a degree from an accredited U.S. institution

Our program faculty advisors

Samantha M. Paredes Scribner

Associate professor.

Email: [email protected]

Sharice Booker

Director of graduate programs.

Email:  [email protected]

School of Education resources and social media channels

• Student Portal

• Prospective Students
• Transfer Students
• Military Students
• Degree Completers
• International Students
• Current Students
• Request Information

Educational Leadership PhD Online Program

• Doctor of Philosophy
• Darden College of Education & Professional Studies
• Department of Educational Foundations & Leadership

Program Highlights

• Cohort-based, executive style program
• Real-time online classes once a week
• No GRE required to apply

Why ODU for Educational Leadership?

In ODU's online educational leadership program, we prepare professionals to provide leadership in a wide variety of educational settings.

Our program has a strong social justice core. Our graduates are ready to produce meaningful change in educational organizations. You will learn how to use research, theory, and your own professional expertise to advance organizational change in your current workplace.

This accelerated, executive style doctoral program is cohort based. You will complete courses throughout the program with the same group of peers. A cohort model allows our students to build an intensive professional learning community as they discuss and research educational problems of practice and policy.

The cohort model also means that your course schedule is set from the beginning of the program, making it easier for professionals working full time to plan ahead.

ODU's Darden College of Education and Professional Development is a UCEA Associate Member , www.ucea.org . Our faculty have received prestigious awards and grants, such as Dr. Karen Sanzo receiving the UCEA Master Professor award and Dr. Rachel White receiving a Spencer Foundation grant.

When you graduate, you will earn a PhD in Education with a concentration in Educational Leadership.

Want to learn more? Contact us!

Required courses.

• 48 credit hours of coursework
• 12 credit hours (minimum) of dissertation work
• View Course Details in ODU's Graduate Catalog

Online Learning Environment

Participate in live, regularly scheduled online class meetings and access course materials online from any location.

To help our students complete this program while working full time, these classes meet in the evening once a week. All courses follow ODU's academic calendar.

• Taking Classes Online

Careers in Education Leadership

This doctoral program is designed to prepare PK-12 educational leaders for a wide variety of professional positions in administration and supervision, higher education, and state and national policy making arenas. Possible careers include:

• Assistant principal
• Superintendent
• Policy maker
• Higher education faculty

This is not a licensure program. It is designed for educational leaders who are already working full-time in PK-12 schools and divisions.

• Explore Careers in Your Region at Our Career Coach Website

Calculating Cost

Rates are effective Fall 2023 and subject to change. * In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

• ODU Tuition and Financial Aid

Meet Your Team

You'll have a dedicated academic advisor for this program.

Contact us if you have questions about admission requirements, transferring credits, or application deadlines.

Ready to get started?

How to apply.

In addition to meeting ODU graduate admission requirements, qualified applicants will be invited to participate in an online interview. GRE is not required. Full application requirements can be found in ODU's graduate catalog .

• Request Info

Want to get started now?

You may be able to take up to four courses (12 credit hours) as a non-degree graduate student, before you are accepted into a specific degree program. 

Please contact us to discuss this option with an expert advisor.

College of Professional Studies

Northeastern University’s online Doctor of Education program provides experienced adult learners, working professionals, and scholar-practitioners from diverse backgrounds and perspectives with the practical knowledge and experience they need to transform the learning landscape. Students gain innovative approaches to create authentic change in their communities. The program was selected as the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate's Program of the Year for 2022-2023.

The Doctor of Education program is designed to be completed in three to four years of study—following a fast-paced quarter system in lieu of a traditional semester format. Students choose from five concentrations to create a curriculum that matches personal and professional interests. The program's dissertation in practice process will begin at the onset of your coursework as you identify your problem of practice and develop an action plan—incorporating cycles of data collection and analysis, collaboration, change work, and reflection—culminating in the dissemination of your action research findings. Our students come from diverse disciplines and professions, seeking more than just a degree. You'll gain a practical education that translates to your everyday working environment.

While all EdD courses can be completed online (except for hybrid courses in Seattle and Charlotte), annual in-person two-day residencies are held on campus. Residencies focus on networking and tools for career success and allow you to connect with faculty and fellow scholars to share knowledge and experience. You'll attend residencies* in your first and second years of the program at one of our campuses in Boston, Charlotte, or Seattle.

The Northeastern Doctor of Education degree is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and was selected as Program of the Year by the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate Program for 2022-2023.

*Please note: International students enrolling in the online EdD program will be provided with an option to complete the residency through online participation in interactive sessions with fellow scholars offered during the residency period.

More Details

Unique features.

• You will choose one of five concentrations—higher education administration, innovative teaching and learning, transformative school leadership, workplace learning, and integrative studies—to focus your studies and further customize your curriculum.
• You'll begin dissertation in practice work at the onset of your program. You'll select a compelling educational/organizational challenge and will be assigned a faculty advisor to support your research throughout the program.
• All coursework is online—providing flexibility for working professionals. Your residencies will be fulfilled in person*, at one of our campuses in Boston, Charlotte, or Seattle.
• You'll learn alongside faculty practitioners—engaging with respected leaders who contribute to the field as authors, journal editors, school board members, bloggers, and podcasters.

*In-person participation in the residency is also available for international students.

Concentrations

• Higher Education Administration: The higher education administration concentration provides an opportunity for experienced higher education professionals to expand their previous understanding of practices within all sectors of postsecondary education—and also advance their professional practice by developing and deepening their understanding of the roles of colleges and universities in our society. Sectors examined include community colleges, four-year colleges, for-profit institutions, and research universities.
• Innovative Teaching and Learning: The innovative teaching and learning concentration focuses on transforming education through innovation, justice, and policy, by providing engaging opportunities for current and aspiring teaching and learning specialists working in various education spaces. The concentration focuses on teaching and learning both inside and outside the bounds of P-20 schools and focuses on developing and leading innovative curricula as well as professional development.
• Transformative School Leadership: The transformative school leadership concentration provides innovative opportunities for experienced education professionals who are current and aspiring leaders of early childhood centers, public or private schools, or school districts. The concentration prepares students to lead and transform educational spaces and be equipped to shape the needs of education in K-12, higher education, organizational contexts, and beyond.
• Workplace Learning: The workplace learning concentration helps professionals gain a deeper understanding of, recognize, and influence real-life social inequalities faced by marginalized populations in the workplace. Courses allow students to advance their professional practice by developing and deepening their knowledge of workplace learning, organizational dynamics, learning strategy, and ethics.
• Integrative Studies: The integrative studies concentration provides an opportunity for students to design a program of study that fits their own professional goals and includes the required foundation and research courses, concentration courses from any EdD concentration, and electives from the Doctor of Education or Doctor of Law and Policy programs.

Program Objectives

Northeastern's Doctor of Education program is designed for experienced professionals interested in deepening their understanding of education, organizational development, and leadership. Throughout the program, students examine various approaches to critical, practice-based issues, learn research methods, and conduct a doctoral research study that investigates a compelling educational or organizational challenge.

2022-2023 Doctor of Education Program of the Year

The Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate selected Northeastern's EdD program as the 2022-2023 Program of the Year, noting the “redesigned Dissertation in Practice Curriculum and the adoption of action research as its guiding methodology …” The committee praised “the program’s efforts to move beyond the typical five-chapter dissertation and engage scholarly practitioners in the acquisition of skills to realize meaningful change in their local contexts, emphasizing social justice.”

Testimonials

– sara ewell, phd, assistant dean, graduate school of education, – frawn morgan, current student, doctor of education, – aaron b., program graduate, looking for something different.

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern—a top-ranked university—can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in the area of your interest. Apply now—and take your career to the next level.

Program Costs

Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Requirements

• Online application
• Academic transcripts: Official undergraduate and graduate degree documentation
• Describe the problem of practice
• Explain why you want to investigate it
• Provide a strong rationale for the significance of the problem
• Minimum work experience: Three years in a related field
• Professional resumé: Must summarize work and education history, include an outline of your educational/academic skills with examples such as research and teaching experience, affiliations, publications, certifications, presentations, and other professional skills.
• Faculty recommendation: Must be from a faculty member in your previous graduate program who can attest to your readiness for doctoral work. If you are no longer acquainted with a faculty member, please choose a professional who can speak of your academic capabilities to engage in doctoral-level research and writing. Recommendations should be presented as a letter attached to the general recommendation form.
• Two professional recommendations: Must be from individuals who have either academic or professional knowledge of your capabilities, a supervisor, mentor, or colleague. It is preferred that one letter of recommendation come from your current employer and/or supervisor. Recommendations should be presented as a letter attached to the general recommendation form.
• Proof of English language proficiency: ONLY for students for whom English is not their primary language.

Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

Admissions Details Learn more about the College of Professional Studies admissions process, policies, and required materials.

Admissions Dates

Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis; however, we do recommend the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term:

Domestic Application Guidelines

International Application Guidelines *

*International deadlines are only applicable if the program is F1 compliant.

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers.

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

View curriculum

The core of the mission of the program is to allow educators to remain in the places they work, focus on a problem of practice, and through experiential learning and site-specific research opportunities in the program, make an immediate impact in their professional environments. The program explicitly integrates research and practice for professionals so they develop the requisite skills for conceiving, designing, conducting, and producing original site-based research in order to effect ethical change related to real-life problems of practice.

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Joseph McNabb, PhD

Cherese Childers-McKee, PhD

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll gain access to students at 13 campus locations, 300,000+ alumni, and 3,000 employer partners worldwide. Our global university system provides students unique opportunities to think locally and act globally while serving as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

Below is a look at where our Education & Learning alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.

Where They Work

• Boston Public Schools
• Chicago Public Schools
• NYC Department of Education
• Lockheed Martin
• Veterans Affairs
• Johns Hopkins
• Columbia University

What They Do

• Media Consultant
• College President
• Chief Information Officer
• Instructional Designer
• Diversity Officer
• Founder-CEO
• VP of Student Services
• Community Services Director

What They're Skilled At

• Experiential Learning
• Team Building
• International Education
• Change Agency
• Entrepreneurship
• Urban Education
• Strategic Management
• Student Engagement

Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on  Linkedin .

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College launches new online MSED in Ed Studies w/Concentration in Higher Ed Systems, Policy, Leadership

Starting in the Fall semester of 2024, the College of Education will launch a new master’s program in Educational Studies with a concentration in Higher Education Systems, Policy and Leadership .

The master’s will focus on preparing leadership-ready graduates who challenge the status quo of PK-22 education both domestically and internationally. University employees may find this a great opportunity for professional development and growth.

This 30-credit degree leads to a non-licensure master’s concentration to engage students in critical thinking about PK-22 educational systems, leadership, and governance, and current issues and policies impacting the internal and external PK-22 educational environments. The program features the integration of select PK-22 and higher education courses that explore the cultural, historical, economic, and social factors present in contemporary education systems. It will also include course offerings in educational leadership, governance, policy, finance, law, and international education.

“We’re thrilled to offer this new non-licensure pathway for higher education professionals who might want to pursue leadership roles in student, academic, or financial affairs spaces, both internal and external to higher education institutions,” said Terron Phillips , clinical assistant professor of higher education. “Contemporary higher educational leadership requires the pairing of foundational field knowledge and skill with boldly innovative vision toward addressing difficult issues in the field; these are the tools with which we aim to equip our graduates.”

For a Fall 2024 start, the application deadline is June 1, 2024.

Information: https://education.purdue.edu/graduate-students/prospective-students/graduate-programs/educational-leadership/higher-education-concentration/

Application: https://gradapply.purdue.edu/apply/

Questions: Terron Phillips, [email protected]

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Sport Coaching & Leadership Blog

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Meet Dr. Jenny Roth

Jenny plays many roles, both internal and external to MSU.  At MSU, she is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology, a Faculty Affiliate for the Institute for the Study of Youth Sports, and Co-coordinator of the MSU Summer Coaches’ School.  She is also Chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee for the United States Center for Coaching Excellence (USCCE).

Jenny teaches five courses in Sport Coaching, Leadership, and Administration online graduate programs:

• KIN 852  – Ethics in Sport Coaching, Leadership, and Administration
• KIN 857  Promoting Positive Youth Development Through Sport
• KIN 865  Stages of Athlete Development
• KIN 872  The Science of Sport Coaching, Leadership and Administration
• KIN 880  Practicum in Sport Coaching

Her research focuses on how coaches promote the positive youth development of the athletes and youth they work with. Essentially, how can the sport experience be structured so each participant gains valuable life skills through participation. She also conducts research on modified youth sport, examining how modifying equipment in tennis can lead to skill development.

Recently, she’s written an article for Sport Coach America on  modified youth sport  and was a guest on a podcast called  “Do I Need My Racket?” , episode: “Hey Coach!”

A fun fact about Jenny is that she used to coach boys’ and girls’ high school varsity tennis and is looking forward to coaching again soon!