Best Online Master's in Educational Leadership

Illinois Online is the virtual learning platform that the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers to its remote students. Individuals seeking advanced positions in the education field might consider the online Master of Education in International Education Administration and Leadership. This 32-credit degree instructs students in curriculum planning, global education, and policy regarding the industry and academic programming abroad. Another Illinois Online degree option in this field is the 32-credit Master of Education in Learning Design and Leadership (LDL). This option instructs education professionals in current best practices in classroom engagement and the latest in classroom-based technologies.

Seton Hall University Online hosts several masters-level distance learning programs, including a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership, Management, and Policy. The two-year degree is appropriate for individuals seeking leadership positions in the education field, such as school principals. There is also an Education Specialist option. Students are required to attend a one-day residency twice a year, allowing those with full-time jobs in the teaching field the flexibility to commit to this online program. The master’s degree is comprised of a 13-course curriculum taught by Seton Hall faculty members.

The Graduate School of Education & Human Development at The George Washington University offers a Master of Arts in Education in Human Development with concentrations in educational leadership and administration, educational technology leadership, and organizational leadership and learning. Admitted students engage in group-structured real-world projects and develop a portfolio of their work. Students also complete two internship requirements. The degree is a combined 30 credit hours. Graduates learn communication strategies, supervisory principles, legal issues, human relations, and essential skills that prepare them for positions as principals, department chairs, consultants, and other leadership roles within the education field.

San Diego State University (SDSU) provides a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership. This degree is available fully online through the SDSU Department of Educational Leadership. The entire program requires one year of study. Considering the flexibility of the classwork, many applicants work full-time as teachers and in similar positions while completing the program. While SDSU offers several masters-level programs in the education field, this online degree focuses on teaching best practices in learning with technology. Students also engage in an independent study course on a more specialized topic.

Western Governors University (WGU) is a fully online institution with a range of graduate-level programs of study. The Master of Science in Education Leadership aims to provide current teachers with the skills to advance into leadership roles in the education field, whether as principals or upper-level administrators. As such, the curriculum includes focused study in federal education policy, finance, law, and strategic planning. The program is provided through the WGU Teachers College. The majority of students complete their master’s degrees in two years. Applicants should research their state of residence to ensure this degree is recognized for credentialing requirements.

Educators seeking an online graduate program may consider the Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Eastern Michigan University (EMU). This 35-credit degree has a specialization in K-12 Administration and can be completed in as few as 18 months. All classes are 7.5-week sessions, except for the capstone course and internship, which require 15-weeks. All courses share the same instructors as the on-campus versions. Areas of study include research methods, the economics of public education, education law, and the role of the school principal. Online content is housed on the Canvas learning management platform. Students may use the EMU IT Help Desk for technical assistance and have access to library resources. Additional support services are available for active military and veterans. Interested candidates must have a completed bachelor’s degree with a 2.7 undergraduate GPA. To apply, individuals should send in a completed application form (with fee), official transcripts, a resume, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

The Graduate School of Education & Psychology at Pepperdine University has an online Master of Science in Leadership in Higher Education and a Master of Science in Leadership in Pre-K to 12 Education. Either program requires 32 credits over 20 months. The MS in Higher Education curriculum includes instruction in higher education student support services, governance, and policies. The MS in Pre-K to 12 includes instruction in coaching, family and community engagement, and learning environments. A three-credit, integrated capstone experience is required for both programs; this can take the form of an internship, a project, a thesis, or a scholarly presentation. Online classes have some synchronous, face-to-face requirements along with live-streamed lectures. Classes share the same faculty as the on-campus versions. The education leadership degrees online have start dates in spring or fall semesters. Pepperdine University’s online students are granted free membership to WeWork locations around the world, giving students a wifi-enabled professional space in which to complete their online classes. Students also get a membership to LinkedIn Premier. Furthermore, online learners can access student success advisors, admissions officers, and 24/7 career services support. Interested candidates must have a completed bachelor’s degree with a preferred 3.0 GPA. Students are also required to submit official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, a resume, GRE scores (if the undergraduate GPA is less than 3.0), and a completed application form (with fee).

Hofstra University has a flexible, fully online Master of Science in Education with a concentration in Higher Education Leadership and Policy Studies. Classes are taught by Hofstra’s education faculty, and online learners engage in discussion boards, case studies, readings, and view presentations through the Blackboard learning management system. Some real-time classes are scheduled, though most work is done independently. The M.Ed. is a 36-credit program that includes major courses in student affairs, assessment, economics, and legal issues. There is a three-credit, independent study-based final project. Students with little work experience are encouraged to seek an internship opportunity, which may substitute for the final independent study credits. Online learners have resources available through career services, student disability services, the Hofstra Electronic Library, and technical support from the school’s Help Desk. Candidates must have a completed bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA or better. Applicants must submit official transcripts, a resume, three letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

There are two degrees at National University for individuals considering an online degree is educational leadership: a Master of Science in Educational Administration or a Master of Science in Higher Education Administration. The MS in Educational Administration has a 45-credit unit, Preliminary Administrative Services credential option for the state of California, and a 45-credit endorsement as Administrator of a School for the state of Nevada, which includes a field experience component. The MS in Higher Education Administration is a 45-credit program that includes a thesis. Online degrees from National University are designed for working adults and military students; National University is recognized as a Yellow Ribbon school. Classes are delivered asynchronously, so students can log on when most convenient for them. Coursework includes participation in discussion boards, recorded lectures, and exams. Students and faculty engage with one another in real-time via instant messaging tools. Online students have access to tutoring, veterans' services, career services, and academic advisement. The library provides digital resources as well as an online reference assistant. National University’s graduate programs use rolling admissions, so students can apply year-round. Interested candidates must submit a completed application and interview with a faculty member.

Kansas State University (K-State) provides online graduate programs through its Global Campus platform. The Master of Science in Educational Leadership is offered through the College of Education and emphasizes P-12 educational settings. The curriculum is designed around the concepts of vision, culture, management, community, ethics, context, and internship. A practicum in education leadership is required to graduate. This is a 30-credit program with a 36-credit option for Kansas Building-Level Licensure. Classes run in fall and spring semesters for 16 weeks, and summer semester for 12 weeks. Content is delivered through synchronous, live-streamed classes. K-State uses Canvas learning management software to house digital materials. Online students attend a virtual orientation and may connect with the IT Help Desk via phone or chat for technical assistance. A career center and academic coaches are also available for remote learners. To be considered, candidates should have a completed bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering with a 3.0 GPA. Applications are accepted year-round. Along with a completed application (with fee), individuals should submit official undergraduate transcripts, a personal statement, a self-survey, and two letters of recommendation.

Individuals interested in the field of education leadership have three online graduate options from the University of Dayton: a Master of Science in Education in Early Childhood Leadership and Advocacy, a Master of Science in Education in Educational Leadership, and a Master of Science in Education in Leadership for Education Systems. Each program is offered through the School of Education and Health Sciences and is available asynchronously, with no required visits to campus. Some classes may include a real-time, weekly session. The MSE in Early Childhood Leadership is designed for experienced professionals seeking a part-time program. The curriculum includes core requirements from either an Administration track or an Advocacy track. Accepted students select either a thesis or a practice option. The MSE in Educational Leadership is a 30-credit, two-year program that can lead to licensure as a school principal. This degree requires a 150-hour internship. The MSE in Education Systems is an interdisciplinary program with courses in educational administration, teacher education, and counselor education. Students select a final research course to complete this degree. Online classes through the University of Dayton are facilitated with 2U Inc. software. Students have access to an academic advisor, career services, and digital resources from the libraries, including a Zoom conference or phone call with a librarian. To apply, candidates should submit a completed application, official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Individuals with an undergraduate GPA under 2.75 may be asked to submit GRE or MAT scores.

Florida State University’s (FSU) online platform, Distance@FSU, has a Master of Science in Educational Leadership/Administration program. Students will use Canvas learning management tools to access and engage with online materials. The degree requires 33 total credit hours, including a final comprehensive exam. Areas of study include legal aspects, resource management, and using data for school improvement. One of the courses includes a practicum experience through which students will practice and demonstrate their skills. Participants in the Distance@FSU programs may also work with an academic advisor and receive support through the Career Center. Florida State University is a designated Yellow Ribbon School. Interested candidates must have a completed bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA, a current Florida Professional Educator’s Certificate, two years of full-time teaching experience (PreK-12), a passing score on the Florida Teacher Certification General Knowledge exam, and are currently employed in a school district. To apply, a completed application form, official transcripts, GRE scores, a statement of purpose, a resume, a personal essay, and two recommendations are required.

The Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration from Stony Brook University is a 36-credit program available online through the School of Professional Development (SPD). The curriculum can be completed on a part-time or full-time basis; students could complete their master’s in 16 months. The MA includes a project seminar and has an elective practicum opportunity. Areas of study in the higher education field include diversity, counseling, financial issues, and philanthropy. Online learning through SPD relies on the Blackboard learning management system, through which students complete most of their assignments asynchronously. Remote learners attend an online student orientation and are encouraged to log in daily to remain engaged with their classes. Classes run in 10-week sessions in fall, spring, and summer terms. Distance learning resources include access to the university’s library, disability support services, a writing center with online appointments, and technical assistance from the Department of Information Technology. To apply, candidates must submit a completed application form (with fee), official transcripts, a resume, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

Cabrini University offers a Master of Education in Educational Leadership that can be completed entirely online with 180 hours of embedded field experience throughout the program. Core study focuses on the sociocultural and philosophical foundations of education. The full degree requires 33 credit hours, and adopts most of its coursework from the university’s Principal Certification program. Individuals interested in receiving the Pre-K-12 Administrative 1/Principal Certification must meet some additional requirements beyond the M.Ed. and professional experience in teaching. Cabrini University’s online classes are facilitated with Blackboard’s learning management software, through which students may watch video tutorials and receive technical support. Accepted students have access to disability accommodations and resources from the Holy Spirit Library, including a live chat feature with a librarian. Candidates may apply for either spring or fall semesters. To be considered for admission, individuals should have a completed bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA. Individuals with a slightly lower GPA may be considered. To apply, students must submit a completed application (with fee), a personal essay or writing sample, two letters of recommendation, and a resume.

Ball State University has two graduate degrees for individuals interested in education leadership: a Master of Arts in Career and Technical Education and a Master of Arts in Education. The MA in Career and Technical Education has an Administrative concentration and a Technology/Leadership concentration. This is a 30-credit program with no thesis requirement. The curriculum is composed of a professional core, research requirements, and electives. The Administrative track includes an internship component. The MA in Education has a concentration in Education Administration and Supervision which prepares students to earn a P-12 Building-Level Administration and Supervision License (Principal’s License). This is a 36-credit program that includes a two-semester internship. The MA of Education can be completed in less than two years. The online programs at Ball State University earned the Learner Support Program Certification through Quality Matters. Content is mostly housed on the Canvas learning management platform and uses asynchronous methods. Remote learners have access to academic and technical support services, as well as career services, and the Office of Disability Services. Ball State is recognized as a Military Friendly institution as well. The GRE is not required and students may apply for fall, spring, or summer semesters. Prospective students should submit official transcripts and an application form (with fee). Candidates must have a completed bachelor’s degree with a 2.75 GPA.

The Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College at Arizona State University offers an online Master of Education in Educational Leadership with a concentration in Principalship. Participants can complete the program full-time or part-time, in 7.5-week class sessions. The M.Ed. curriculum is 11 classes, totaling 36 credit hours. The Principalship specialization requires individuals to complete the academic and field requirements to attain principal certification in the state of Arizona. Areas of study include school law, curriculum assessment, and school finance. An internship and an applied project are included in the degree. Most online classes are asynchronous. Students can enroll for the fall or spring semester. Online students will be assigned an academic advisor and have access to a 24/7 IT Help Desk. To apply, candidates must have a completed bachelor’s degree in any field with at least a 3.0 GPA. To apply, prospective students should submit a completed graduate application (with fee), official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a professional resume. The GRE is not required. Upon program completion, students are welcome to attend the on-campus graduation ceremony.

University of North Texas (UNT) has two fully online degrees for individuals in the field of education leadership: an Accelerated Master of Education in Education Leadership or a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration. Both are offered through the UNT College of Education. The M.Ed. in Education Leadership is a 10-course, 30-credit degree that emphasizes positive school culture, student academic achievement, and teaching practices. The program leads to certification as a principal. The M.Ed in Higher Education has a specialized track in General Administration. Students complete the program alongside a virtual cohort. This is a 36-credit program that includes a practicum or field internship. Online courses are facilitated with Canvas learning management software and Zoom video-conferencing services. Students may access disability services, a technology Help Desk, and electronic resources from the UNT library system. Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Applications are accepted for fall, spring, or summer terms. To apply to the M.Ed in Education Leadership, individuals should submit a letter of recommendation, a personal essay, official transcripts, a resume, and a completed application form. The M.Ed in Higher Education requires an additional two letters of recommendation and GRE or GMAT scores for students whose bachelor’s GPA is under a 3.3.

University of Louisville’s College of Education and Human Development hosts a Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration; students may choose from four concentrations: Administration, Teaching and Learning, Policy and Equity, and Sports Administration. This is a 36-credit program with areas of study in research methods and assessment, legal issues, and diversity. No matter which concentration is selected, every student must engage in at least 105 internship hours. The MA can be completed entirely online via Blackboard learning management software using case studies, assignments, and a discussion forum. Online courses share the same faculty as the on-campus classes, yet can be completed on a student's own time. Online learners are assigned an academic advisor, career guidance, and military benefits. In fact, the University of Louisville has been designated as a Military Friendly institution. Online degrees are the same as those awarded to on-campus graduates. Prospective students must have a completed bachelor’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA. If the GPA threshold is not met, individuals must send in GRE, GMAT, or MAT scores. To apply, students should submit official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a current resume. Applications are accepted for fall, spring, and summer terms.

Indiana University Bloomington (IUB) offers a Master of Science in Education in Education Leadership. This is a 36-credit program available entirely online that prepares students for licensure as a building-level administrator or superintendent. Areas of study in the field of education include legal perspectives, the role of the principal, budgeting, and data management. Students may choose an elective concentration in one of the following: Higher Education and Student Affairs, Leadership in Educational Organizations, Learning Sciences, or School Law. Online courses share the same faculty as the on-campus versions. Content is managed with the Canvas platform, through which students have access to assignments, discussions, quizzes, grades, and collaboration features. Canvas also has a mobile app. Students are assigned a faculty advisor, 24/7 technical assistance, the IUB Distance Education Library, and veteran support services. Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree with at least a 2.7 GPA. To apply, individuals should submit official transcripts, a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and a resume.

University of New Mexico (UNM) hosts a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership offered entirely online through the College of Education. This is a 36-credit hour program with core study in adult learning styles, conflict resolution, and organizational leadership. Online courses are facilitated with Blackboard learning management software in a platform called UNM Learn. Here, students may see their grades, assignments, discussion boards, syllabi, and information for virtually proctored exams. Video-conferencing tools are available with Blackboard Collaborative. UNM’s online programs are certified by Quality Matters and provide remote learners with access to 24/7 IT support (via phone), tutoring services, digital materials from one of the UNM libraries, and academic advising. Students with a military background may utilize the UNM Veterans Resource Center. To be considered, individuals must have a bachelor’s degree in an education-related field with a 3.0 GPA minimum. To apply, candidates should submit official transcripts, a letter of intent, a professional biographical form, a writing sample, three letters of recommendation, and the completed application form.

Liberty University’s Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction is a faith-based, 36-credit degree available entirely online. Students may also pursue a 30-credit Master of Education in Higher Education or a 36-credit Master of Education in Educational Administration and Supervision. Classes run in eight-week terms; online learning is hosted through Blackboard's learning management software and employs asynchronous methods, such as discussion boards and pre-recorded materials. The curriculum focuses on leadership roles in Christian school systems. The M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction offers concentrations in Leadership and Student Services. Students select either a capstone course in current issues in education or a directed practicum. Most students complete this program in 18 months. The M.Ed. in Higher Education requires one year of study and has a concentration in Educational Leadership. The M.Ed. in Educational Administration typically requires 1.5 years to complete and includes an internship component. Liberty is recognized as a Military Friendly institution. Online students have access to Liberty's IT Help Desk, an online writing center, free e-tutoring, free Adobe software products, and resources from the Jerry Falwell Library. Students complete work at their own pace. Applicants to the M.Ed. programs online must have a completed bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA and are required to send in official transcripts along with their application (with fee).

Troy University offers customizable graduate degrees through its online platform, eTroy, for individuals seeking education leadership programs. The Master of Science in Education has a concentration in Instructional Leadership and Administration for Grades P-12. This is a 36-credit option including two practicum components. A reduced, 19-credit option (for certification only) maintains the practicum expectation. Students also may consider the Master of Science in Adult Education, with a concentration in Leadership in Workforce Development. This is a 33-credit degree that includes a comprehensive capstone project and final presentation. All programs include research methodology skills. Classes run in nine-week sessions. Students in one of the eTroy programs have access to a range of resources, including academic support from the John W. Schmidt Center for Student Success, which provides academic advising, career services, disability accommodations, and writing and research help. Along with online databases and e-materials, Troy University libraries provide students with a live chat feature with a librarian. Online classes are mostly asynchronous and utilize forums, messaging, and video-conferencing when appropriate. All course materials are housed through the Canvas learning management system. Candidates should have a completed bachelor’s degree with a 2.5 GPA. Interested applicants to the online graduate programs at Troy University must submit official transcripts, GRE scores, and letters of recommendation.

The University of Tennessee’s Knoxville campus (UTK) offers aspiring school leaders a Master of Science in Educational Administration. This program can be completed online and includes a K-12 principal’s licensure and non-licensure option. Hosted in the College of Education, Health, and Human Services, the MS in Educational Administration includes a supervised internship component. This is a 36-credit hour program whether pursuing the licensure or not. The non-licensure program has additional elective options. Major areas of study include school finance, policy issues, and curriculum. Distance learners may use digital resources from the Hodges Library or technical assistance from the Office of Information Technology. Most online content is facilitated with Canvas learning management software and Zoom video-conferencing tools. Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree with an undergraduate GPA of at least 2.75. To apply, students must submit a completed application (with fee), unofficial transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a statement of professional goals and professional development activities. Applicants are required to complete an interview as well.

The University of Florida’s (UF) College of Education offers a Master of Education in Educational Leadership degree. The program is available online, can be completed part-time or full-time, and requires between 36 and 39 credits. Along with the course requirements, students must successfully complete a 150-hour, supervised practicum in school administration. Most students graduate in two years, and the program leads to Principal’s Certification for the state of Florida. Online content is housed via Canvas learning management software. UF Online students have access to career services, academic advising, a 24/7 IT Help Desk, and resources from UF Libraries, including a live chat feature with a librarian. Students may apply for fall, spring, or summer entry. Students must have completed a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA to be considered for admission. To apply, candidates must submit a completed application, a resume, a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, GRE scores, and a writing sample. A telephone interview may be requested of applicants.