Online Master’s in Educational
Leadership

<a href="https://www.onlinemasterscolleges.com/online-masters-in-educational-leadership/">Educational Leadership</a>

College Name & Address	Tuition	Graduation Rate
#1 University of Florida Tigert Hall, Gainesville, Florida 32611	$10,770	88%
#2 University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 601 E John Street, Champaign, Illinois 61820	$14,997	85%
#3 Florida State University 222 S. Copeland Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32306	$9,684	83%
#4 Lehigh University 27 Memorial Drive West, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015	$27,000	90%
#5 Indiana University, Bloomington 107 South Indiana Ave., Bloomington, Indiana 47405	$9,501	79%
#6 University of San Diego 5998 Alcala Park, San Diego, California 92110	$27,288	81%
#7 George Washington University 1918 F Street, NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20052	$31,770	82%
#8 Fordham University 441 E Fordham Rd, Bronx, New York 10458	$34,608	83%
#9 University of Central Florida 4000 Central Florida Blvd, Orlando, Florida 32816	$6,916	72%
#10 University of Iowa 101 Jessup Hall, Iowa City, Iowa 52242	$10,079	72%
#11 University of Missouri, Columbia 105 Jesse Hall, Columbia, Missouri 65211	$9,264	71%
#12 George Mason University 4400 University Dr, Fairfax, Virginia 22030	$12,144	71%
#13 University of Cincinnati 2624 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45221	$12,790	71%
#14 The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa 739 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487	$10,780	71%
#15 Louisiana State University 156 Thomas Boyd Hall, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803	$9,132	68%
#16 University of St. Thomas 3800 Montrose Blvd, Houston, Texas 77006	$20,934	68%
#17 University of Denver 2199 S. University Blvd, Denver, Colorado 80208	$51,336	77%
#18 University of Kentucky South Limestone, Lexington, Kentucky 40506	$12,055	66%
#19 University of New Mexico 1700 Lomas Blvd NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87106	$5,156	54%
#20 Augusta University 1120 15th St, Augusta, Georgia 30912	$5,504	40%
#21 The University of West Florida 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, Florida 32514	$7,088	46%
#22 Southeastern Oklahoma State University 425 W University Blvd, Durant, Oklahoma 74701	$4,716	35%
#23 Louisiana State University, Shreveport One University Place, Shreveport, Louisiana 71115	$6,196	31%
#24 Western Governors University 4001 South 700 East Suite 700, Salt Lake City, Utah 84107	$7,500	21%
#25 Arizona State University Online 1475 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, Arizona 85257	$6,384	4%

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

<a href="https://www.onlinemasterscolleges.com/online-masters-in-educational-leadership/">Educational Leadership</a>

College Name & Address	Tuition	Graduation Rate
#1 Fort Hays State University 600 Park St, Hays, Kansas 67601	$3,582	43%
#2 Western Carolina University Highway 107, Cullowhee, North Carolina 28723	$4,435	62%
#3 West Texas A&M University 2501 4th Ave, Canyon, Texas 79016	$4,823	45%
#4 University of Wyoming Corner of Ninth and Ivinson, Laramie, Wyoming 82071	$4,878	60%
#5 Arkansas State University 2105 E. Aggie Road, Jonesboro, Arkansas 72401	$4,986	53%
#6 Stephen F. Austin University 2008 Alumni Drive, Rusk 206, Nacogdoches, Texas 75961	$5,112	52%
#7 Florida Atlantic University 777 Glades Rd, Administration Bldg., Room 339, Boca Raton, Florida 33431	$5,467	50%
#8 Arizona State University Online 1475 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, Arizona 85257	$6,384	4%
#9 Emporia State University 1 Kellogg Circle, Emporia, Kansas 66801	$6,394	50%
#10 University of Central Florida 4000 Central Florida Blvd, Orlando, Florida 32816	$6,916	72%
#11 San Diego State University 5500 Campanile Dr, San Diego, California 92182	$7,176	73%
#12 California State University, Sacramento 6000 J St, Sacramento, California 95819	$7,176	55%
#13 Western Governors University 4001 South 700 East Suite 700, Salt Lake City, Utah 84107	$7,500	21%
#14 Indiana State University 210 N 7th St, Terre Haute, Indiana 47809	$7,542	41%
#15 Minnesota State University South Rd and Ellis Ave, Mankato, Minnesota 56001	$7,694	50%
#16 University of Arkansas Administration Bldg 425, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701	$7,752	66%
#17 Liberty University 1971 University Blvd, Lynchburg, Virginia 24515	$7,980	47%
#18 Columbia College 1001 Rogers Street, Columbia, Missouri 65216	$8,602	28%
#19 University of Wisconsin, La Crosse 1725 State St, La Crosse, Wisconsin 54601	$8,651	69%
#20 Louisiana State University 156 Thomas Boyd Hall, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803	$9,132	68%
#21 Indiana University, Bloomington 107 South Indiana Ave., Bloomington, Indiana 47405	$9,501	79%
#22 Florida State University 222 S. Copeland Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32306	$9,684	83%
#23 University of Iowa 101 Jessup Hall, Iowa City, Iowa 52242	$10,079	72%
#24 University of Florida 341 Tigert Hall 300 SW 13th St, Gainesville, Florida 32611	$10,770	88%
#25 University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 601 E John Street, Champaign, Illinois 61820	$14,997	85%

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs provide comprehensive training for aspiring educational leaders. Spanning 30 to 36 credits, coursework covers educational administration, organizational management, curriculum development, and policy analysis. Practical experiences like internships equip participants to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Emphasizing critical thinking, communication, and strategic planning, these programs prepare graduates for leadership roles in schools, districts, or educational institutions. They instill the skills necessary to drive positive change and foster academic excellence within diverse educational contexts, using synchronous and asynchronous learning formats to accommodate varied schedules and preferences.

Curriculum and Skills Gained in Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

Master’s in Educational Leadership programs emphasize advanced educational management principles, leadership theories, and organizational development. They explore strategies for fostering stakeholder collaboration, promoting equity and inclusivity, and implementing effective instructional practices. These programs often explore educational policy analysis, data-driven decision-making, and cultivating a culture of continuous improvement. Graduates are equipped with the skills to lead educational institutions toward excellence and innovation in teaching and learning. Here are some examples of courses commonly found in Master’s in Education Leadership programs:

 Students can expect to gain the following skills and learning outcomes upon completing the master’s in education leadership program:

• Strategic planning: Developing long-term goals and action plans for educational institutions.
• Decision-making: Making informed and effective curriculum, resources, and policy decisions.
• Team leadership: Managing and leading teams of educators and staff members.
• Educational policy analysis: Understanding and analyzing educational policies and their implications.
• Data analysis: Collecting, interpreting, and using data to inform instructional practices and decision-making.
• Instructional coaching: Supporting and mentoring teachers to improve their instructional practices.
• Communication: Effectively communicating with stakeholders, including parents, teachers, administrators, and community members.
• Conflict resolution: Resolving conflicts and addressing challenges within educational settings.
• Equity and diversity awareness: Promoting equity and diversity in education and addressing systemic barriers.
• Organizational management: Managing educational institutions’ resources, budgets, and facilities.
• Continuous improvement: Engaging in ongoing reflection and professional development to enhance leadership practices.

Curriculum And Instruction Vs. Educational Leadership

Educational Leadership deals with improving the education system by collaborating with other talented and energetic individuals. At the same time, curriculum and instruction programs focus on theoretical models for learning and their applications. Here is a comparison between Curriculum and Instruction and Educational Leadership.

Curriculum and Instruction	Educational Leadership
Analyzing the importance and need of a diverse student population.	Setting a goal and creating a student-centered learning environment.
Constructing a curriculum that meets the larger philosophy or mission of the institution.	Developing a culture of accountability and achievement in school.
Identifying approaches in the instruction can fulfill the goals and simultaneously maintain the flexibility of ensuring student requirements are met.	Evaluating and recruiting qualified educators.
Identifying and accounting for problems or limitations that interfere with teaching.	Handling the problems or limitations by making the best use of communication technology.
Continually improving the curriculum.	Applying data to initiatives for improvements in student performance.

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Degree Types

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership programs offer three distinct degree types: the Master of Arts (MA), the Master of Science (MS), and the Master of Education (M.Ed.). Each degree type provides comprehensive training in educational leadership, with variations in focus areas, curriculum emphasis, and specific requirements tailored to diverse career goals and educational contexts. 

Here is a breakdown:

Specializations for Education Leadership Students

Specializations in Master’s in Educational Leadership programs allow students to tailor their studies to specific areas of interest or career goals, such as curriculum development, school administration, or educational technology. Students gain in-depth knowledge and skills relevant to their desired roles by focusing on specialized topics, enhancing their expertise and marketability in the education sector. Specializations also provide opportunities for networking and career advancement in specialized fields. Here are some education leadership specializations:

Area of Focus	Description	Careers This Concentration Prepares For
International Education	This specialization prepares leaders for global educational contexts. It explores cross-cultural communication, international education policy, and worldwide strategies for promoting educational equity and inclusivity. Graduates are equipped to lead educational initiatives on a global scale, fostering collaboration and understanding across diverse communities.	International Education Consultant International School Administrator Study Abroad Program Coordinator Global Education Policy Analyst
Curriculum and Instructional Leadership	This specialization emphasizes designing, implementing, and evaluating effective educational curricula. Students explore instructional strategies, assessment methods, and curriculum development theories. Graduates are equipped to lead curriculum improvement initiatives, promote instructional excellence, and drive student achievement in diverse educational settings.	Curriculum Specialist Instructional Coach Curriculum Developer Assessment Coordinator
Higher Education Leadership	This specialization prepares individuals for leadership roles in colleges and universities. It explores topics such as higher education administration, student affairs, and academic program management. Graduates are equipped to lead and innovate within the complex landscape of post-secondary education.	University President Dean of Students Director of Academic Affairs Registrar
Early Childhood Education Leadership	This specialization focuses on preparing leaders for roles in preschools, early learning centers, and early childhood programs. It emphasizes curriculum development, family engagement, and effective leadership strategies to promote positive outcomes for young children and their families.	Preschool Director Early Childhood Program Coordinator Childcare Center Administrator Head Start Program Director
School Administration and Leadership	This specialization prepares individuals for administrative roles in K-12 educational settings. It covers topics such as school management, personnel administration, and educational policy. Graduates are equipped to lead schools effectively, promote student success, and foster positive school cultures.	School Principal Assistant Principal School Superintendent School Business Manager

Timeline for graduation from Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership programs generally offer flexible scheduling, allowing students to complete their degree in 1.5 to 3 years. The duration depends on factors such as course load, program requirements, and individual pacing. Part-time students typically take longer to finish, while full-time students may complete the program in a shorter timeframe. The online format offers convenience and accessibility for working professionals seeking to advance their careers in education leadership.

Accelerated Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

Accelerated Master’s in Educational Leadership programs condense coursework and requirements to enable students to graduate more quickly than traditional programs. By offering intensive schedules, shorter semesters, and credit for prior learning, these programs cater to motivated individuals seeking expedited career advancement. Accelerated formats provide efficient pathways for professionals to acquire advanced qualifications, enhancing their leadership skills and opportunities in the field of education. Here are examples of universities that offer accelerated master’s in education leadership online programs.

• University of Michigan -Dearborn¹
• University of North Texas²

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs Admission Requirements

The admission requirements for online Master’s educational leadership programs vary from university to university. However, most universities have several common admission requirements, such as:

Requirement	Description
Minimum GPA	Most programs will expect a minimum of 2.5 to 3 GPA in undergraduate studies. Students who do not have a 2.5 or higher GPA can still pursue these programs, but universities might require additional prerequisites and/or standardized test score requirements.
Bachelor’s Degree	An undergraduate degree is necessary for students to pursue an online master’s in educational leadership programs.
Experience	Some universities require students to possess professional experience in education or administration. Some universities might also need a teaching license based on state laws.
GRE/GMAT	A few universities ask for GRE or GMAT scores, while several universities do not have this requirement. The universities that do not have standardized test score requirements usually require some professional experience.
Résumé	Students must include an updated resume that shows experience, achievements, and progressive growth in their lives, education, and profession.
Letters of Recommendation	Students need to provide 2 to 3 letters of recommendation from past professors, coworkers, or individuals of significant influence in the student’s life.
Personal Statement	Students need to submit a letter of intent or a personal statement that clearly states their motivation to pursue the educational leadership field.

Accreditation ensures that educational institutions meet quality standards, assuring students of valuable education. It validates the institution’s programs, faculty qualifications, and resources. Accredited degrees often hold higher credibility with employers and other institutions, facilitating the transfer of credits and recognition of qualifications. Additionally, accreditation can provide students access to financial aid and support their academic and career goals by ensuring they receive a rigorous and reputable education.

A college offering an online master’s degree in education leadership can be accredited by any of the six regional accrediting bodies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education⁵ or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)⁶:

• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Several free online courses in educational Leadership are available for students. These courses can help students gain more knowledge about educational Leadership, management topics, the state of affairs in the higher education space, etc.  Some of these courses also offer certifications; students can add them to their résumé. Here are a few free online courses in educational Leadership:

Course	Developing your educational Leadership and Management Vision7
Provided by	Class Central
Description	This course explores leadership styles, best practices, and philosophies to enhance leadership capacity. Participants evaluate strengths and areas for growth and develop a personal leadership philosophy and vision. Strategic management theory is examined in the school context. Aimed at school teachers in leadership roles, it offers 12 hours of professional development for career advancement.

Course	Education and Leadership Collaboration 8
Provided by	Alison
Description	This course explores the important role of leadership in fostering collaboration for lasting educational impact. It equips participants with essential skills to facilitate teamwork among school staff, including teachers, support staff, and governors, as well as engaging with parents and government stakeholders.

Course	Introduction to Leadership in Teaching9
Provided by	Alison
Description	This course introduces concepts and skills for effectively conveying instructions to motivate a group. It covers teacher leadership and key characteristics. Teaching embodies leadership, requiring teachers to excel as leaders for effective classroom learning. Leadership skills are essential for teachers to enhance education quality in and outside the classroom.

Many career positions are available to those who complete a Master’s in Educational Leadership. With an ongoing need to develop strong and updated educational systems, educational leaders play a vital role. Here are some career options, related roles, annual salaries, and job descriptions:

Job Role	Average Annual Salary	Job Growth (2022-2032)	Description
Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals10	$101,320	1% (little or no change)	Elementary, middle, and high school principals are responsible for all school operations, from coordinating curriculums to managing staff and ensuring a safe learning environment. They oversee daily activities and play a crucial role in creating a productive atmosphere conducive to student success.
Instructional Coordinators11	$66,490	2% (as fast as average)	Instructional coordinators manage school curriculums and teaching standards. They develop educational materials, collaborate with teachers and principals for implementation, and assess effectiveness. Responsibilities include organizing teacher training, analyzing test data, recommending teaching techniques, and mentoring staff to enhance instructional quality and student learning outcomes.
Special Education Teachers12	$62,950	0% (little or no change)	Special education teachers support students with diverse learning, emotional, or physical needs, adapting lessons and teaching various subjects. They cater to mild to moderate disabilities, providing foundational skills to severe cases. Their role involves individualized instruction, fostering inclusion, and collaborating with families and support staff to facilitate student development and success.
School and Career Counselors and Advisors13	$60,140	5% (faster than average)	School counselors guide students in academic and social development, aiding post-graduation planning. Career counselors assist individuals in skill development, occupation exploration, and educational program selection, facilitating career attainment. Both roles prioritize individualized support, fostering personal growth, and empowering clients to make informed decisions for their academic and professional futures.

Certifications in education leadership vary by state and institution. While not always mandatory for a Master’s in Education Leadership, they often enhance job prospects and credibility. Some programs may incorporate certification preparation or require candidates to pursue certification post-graduation. Ultimately, certification can signify expertise and adherence to professional standards, potentially advancing career opportunities in educational leadership roles. Here are a few certifications for master’s in education leadership graduates:

Principal/Administrative Certification¹⁴

Principal certification validates an individual’s readiness to navigate diverse challenges in school leadership. It rigorously assesses organizational aptitude and instructional acumen, ensuring principals can effectively drive positive transformation within educational settings. Certification signifies a commitment to excellence and the capacity to lead meaningful change, fostering optimal learning environments for students and staff.

National Board Certified Teacher (NBCT)¹⁵

The National Board Certification for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) was established by the National Board to foster teacher development, retention, and acknowledgment of achievements. This prestigious certification promotes ongoing enhancement in educational institutions nationwide, serving as the pinnacle of recognition for educators’ expertise and dedication to excellence in teaching.

Students and working professionals benefit from keeping in touch with professional associations supporting the Educational Leadership field. Memberships and conferences enhance networks with some of the best for professionals. Members also benefit from the organization’s resources, such as job boards, publications, case studies, articles, books, and white papers authored by experts in Educational Leadership. Here are some associations to consider:

Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA)

HECA was established by higher education consultants recognizing the need for standards and professional development in their field. Supported by college admissions officials, it promotes high ethical standards. HECA offers diverse professional development programs and an annual conference for networking and staying updated on college admissions trends. With over 1,000 members nationwide, HECA serves the college planning needs of 40,000+ high school seniors annually.

Association of Leadership Educators (ALE)

The Association of Leadership Educators, Inc. aims to enhance the expertise of professional leadership educators. It envisions setting the standard for Leadership Education by fostering a vibrant community for exchanging quality ideas, scholarship, and practice. ALE serves as the nexus for teaching, research, and development in leadership education, guided by values of inclusivity, collaboration, curiosity, and rigor.

Association of International Education Administrators (AIEA)

The Association of International Education Administrators prepares leaders to navigate higher education’s global landscape. AIEA promotes strategic approaches to internationalization, empowering leaders and facilitating global dialogue on key issues. It collaborates with organizations worldwide to cultivate sustainable and progressive perspectives, shaping the future of higher education on a global scale.

Association for Experiential Education (AEE)

The Association for Experiential Education (AEE) is dedicated to advancing experiential education globally. AEE fosters an inclusive community rooted in experiential education philosophy, supports research dissemination, and advocates for expansion. Values include global community, adventure, reflective leadership, social justice, conservation, and creative play for holistic development and learning experiences.