cheapest online masters in education

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In this article, we profile the top 50 most affordable online master’s in education administration programs.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for school principals and administrators is projected to grow six percent over the next seven years. This employment growth is due to increased school enrollment. School administrators are required to hold a minimum of a master’s degree. To accommodate growth, online options from some of the nation’s reputable institutions are now offered.

Ranking Methodology for the Most Affordable Online Education Administration Programs

This is a list of the 50 most affordable online master’s in education administration or educational leadership programs offered by nationally and/or regionally accredited colleges and universities. Schools are ranked according to raw affordability. Our list considers the most reputable graduate online master’s in educational administration, educational leadership, and closely related degree programs from accredited colleges and universities with a graduate tuition price (inclusive of fees) under $21,000 per year. We looked at 281 accredited institutions listed by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offered at least one of these online programs. We then confirmed accreditation and selected nationally and regionally ranked schools as listed by U.S. News and World Report. From our list, we chose the most affordable online programs.

Below is our list of the top 50 most affordable online master’s in educational administration (educational leadership) programs.

#50 – Concordia University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Portland, Oregon

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,910

Concordia University’s online master’s in educational leadership program is designed for working students who desire to take on administration or leadership roles in education. All courses are delivered online and include research core (action research class and thesis). Some of the online courses include case studies in law and ethics, character and the ethics of leadership, community of learners, organization of change, school and community partnerships, and strategies for enhancing student achievement. Concordia is accredited and recognized by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. The school earns a spot on our list of the 50 most affordable online master’s in educational leadership programs.

#49 – Pennsylvania State University

Online Master of Education in Educational Leadership

University Park, Pennsylvania

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,216

Pennsylvania State University’s online master’s in educational leadership is a 30-credit hour program with a choice of three emphasis areas: school leader without principal certification, school leader with certification, and teacher leader. The program is open to K-12 teachers who want to broaden their leadership potential. All classes are delivered online and include curriculum design – theory and practice, introduction to teacher leadership, learning processes in relation to educational priorities, principles of instructional supervision, and technology applications in educational leadership. Admission requires that applicants hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and be Pennsylvania certified educators. Penn State is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 52nd best national university and 114th best value school.

#48 – LeTourneau University

Online Master’s in Education Administration

Longview, Texas

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,115

LeTourneau University offers an accredited online master’s in educational administration program designed for individuals looking to move into educational management and leadership positions. Students complete one online course at a time, with each class lasting between three and seven weeks. Some of the courses include administration of the EC-12 curriculum, administration of special programs, educational research for effective teaching, instructional leadership, introduction to educational administration, public school law, and theoretical applications of teaching and learning. LeTourneau is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 23rd best regional university in the West and the 11th best value school.

#47 – DePaul University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Chicago, Illinois

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,290

DePaul University’s online educational leadership master’s degree program is for today’s leaders in education. The program is available as a master of arts or M.Ed., and both offer concentrations in areas of Catholic leadership, higher education, principal license, and teacher leader. To accommodate working professionals, the educational leadership master’s delivers classes online or in a hybrid format. Some of the available courses include data driven decision making, human resource management, instructional supervision and support, nonprofit financial administration, school finance, service learning for higher education, and stakeholder relationships. DePaul is ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 120th best national university and 79th best value school.

#46 – Southern New Hampshire University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction – Education Leadership

Manchester, New Hampshire

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,810

Southern New Hampshire University offers an online master’s in educational leadership concentration through the curriculum and instruction program. Pairing the MEd with this concentration helps develop skills needed to work in leadership and administration roles within various school settings. Courses are delivered online and include building community through education, curriculum design – assessment for student learning, evidence-based research for education, leadership in teaching and learning, leading educational organizations, seminar in curriculum and instruction, and the educator as leader. Southern New Hampshire is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 86th best regional university in the North and the 83rd best value school. Also, U.S. News ranks SNHU as the #1 most innovative school in the country.

#45 – University of Illinois

Online Master’s in Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership

Champaign, Illinois

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,289

One of the most affordable online master’s in educational administration programs on our list is offered by University of Illinois. This 36-credit hour program can be completed entirely online by taking classes taught by university professors. These courses include clinical experience administration, education law, leading learning-centered schools, learning and human development with educational technology, political and cultural context of education, public school finance, and supervision of learning environment. The institution is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 52nd best national university and 105th best value school. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #10 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#44 – School Removed

#43 – Azusa Pacific University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Azusa, California

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,444

Azusa Pacific University’s online educational leadership master’s degree program is designed to prepare qualified educators to serve as effective instructional leaders in administrative roles. The program aligns its courses and curriculum with the California Administrator Performance Expectations (CAPE) and is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). Online courses are taught by university professors and include community leadership, instructional leadership, organizational and systems leadership, professional learning and growth leadership, and school improvement leadership. Azusa Pacific is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 187th best national university, and the school’s online graduate education programs have also earned rankings.

#42 – Eastern Michigan University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Ypsilanti, Michigan

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,355

One of the most affordable online master’s in educational administration or educational leadership programs on our list is offered at Eastern Michigan University. Admission to the program is competitive and requires applicants have a minimum GPA of 3.0 in most undergraduate work, have received a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, and two professional recommendations. All courses are delivered online and taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. These courses include administering human resources in education, community education and community relations, educational leadership in a pluralistic society, leadership for school improvement, and organization and administration of K-12 schools. Eastern Michigan is ranked by U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the online graduate education programs rank #113 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#41 – Saint Joseph’s University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,092

Saint Joseph’s University offers an affordable type of online master’s in education administration and educational leadership program designed to fit the needs of working professionals. This online educational leadership degree is a flexible 12-course graduate program that offers both rigorous coursework and field experience. Courses include: curriculum development and practice in public and private schools, educational leader as researcher and reflective practitioner, law and American education, and managing financial and material resources. St. Joseph’s is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 11th best regional university in the North and the 34th best value school. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #98 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#40 – Southern Wesleyan University

Online Master of Education in Classroom Leadership

Central, South Carolina

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,075

Southern Wesleyan University offers affordable online education administration programs, including the master’s in classroom leadership. The program is open to students with a bachelor’s degree in education and state certification who also have one year of teaching experience along with the desire to move into administration or leadership roles. All courses are delivered online and include behavior and classroom management, contemporary issues involving diversity in the classroom, curriculum and instruction with practicum, instructional technologies, philosophy of education, and professional leadership and mentoring with practicum. Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA and complete the program within five years. According to U.S. News and World Report, Southern Wesleyan is recognized as a top regional university in the South.

#39 – Capella University

Master of Science in Education – Leadership in Educational Administration

Minneapolis, Minnesota

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Tuition: $470 per credit

Capella University offers accredited online education administration programs designed for working professionals seeking leadership roles in education. Capella University’s Educator Preparation Provider (EPP) is accredited based on the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) Standards through 2024. CAEP is the only recognized national accreditor for educator preparation. Classes are delivered online with 12 courses required to complete the program. These courses include Survey of Research Methodology, Education and the Law, P-12 Principalship, and more. Capella University is one of the most affordable schools on our list.

#38 – University of Cincinnati

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Cincinnati, Ohio

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,468

University of Cincinnati offers an accredited online master’s in educational leadership program designed for working educators seeking leadership or administration roles. Consistently ranked as a top education program, the online educational leadership master’s provides quality courses taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. These courses include curriculum development and data analysis, educational leadership theory, human resources administration in education, instructional supervision, school finance, and school law. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 133rd best national university, the 111th best value school, and the online graduate education programs #43 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#36 – University of South Carolina

Online Master’s in Educational Administration

Columbia, South Carolina

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,798

University of South Carolina offers a 24-month online master’s in educational administration designed for certified teachers in the South Carolina area aspiring to move beyond the classroom and into leadership roles. The online degree offers courses taught by distinguished professors with careers that span across principalship and administration. Some of the offered courses include introduction to educational administration, legal basis of educational organization and administration, school finance and business management, school leadership, school personnel administration, and supervision of instruction. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, two letters of recommendation, and a professional licensure or relevant experience for non-licensed applicants. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school as the 103rd best national university and 142nd best value school.

#35 – Central Michigan University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Mount Pleasant, Michigan

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,232

Central Michigan University offers some of the most affordable online education administration programs on our list. Accredited by the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC), the program is designed to prepare students for leadership in all educational settings. The program also offers a supervision emphasis, which requires an additional six hours of study, covering courses like instructional supervision and leadership and principles of educational administration. Other online courses offered include administration of school curriculum, public school law, school and community relations, and school business administration. Admission requires applicants hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, provide official transcripts, and have two letters of recommendation. Central Michigan is a top-ranked national university by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #29 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#34 – California Baptist University

Online Master’s in Education – Educational Leadership

Riverside, California

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,140

California Baptist University is one of our most affordable schools to offer online master’s in education administration and leadership degrees. The program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for professional excellence as trainers, administrators, and leaders in school settings. This 33-credit hour program can be completed entirely online and offers courses taught by university professors. These courses include curriculum theory and development, international and comparative education, introduction to educational leadership, school law and finance, survey of educational research, and theories of learning and teaching. Admission to the program requires a bachelor’s degree with a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0, official sealed transcripts, and two recommendations. The institution is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 31st best regional university in the West and 30th best value school. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #101 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#33 – Montclair State University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Montclair, New Jersey

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,140

Montclair State University’s online master’s in education administration program offers a fully online format and classes that last eight weeks. Courses blend theory and practice, and even though delivery is online, interaction between peers and faculty take place. Some of the required courses include differentiated supervision, effective leadership in a diverse society, ethical leadership and decision making, leading curriculum change for student achievement, school and community relations, and theory and research in administration. Admission requirements include an earned undergraduate degree from an accredited institution and two letters of recommendation. The GRE is waived for applicants with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. Montclair is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #47 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#32 – Thomas Edison State University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Trenton, New Jersey

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,024

Thomas Edison State University’s online master’s in educational leadership program is designed to serve adults who wish to prepare for leadership roles in schools and districts. The program is offered entirely online with three areas of leadership specialization, including building leadership, district leadership, and school business administration. The online courses are taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. These courses include critical issues in curriculum design and evaluation, curriculum leadership and supervision, effective leadership – from theory to practice, professional portfolio development, standards-based curriculum development, and technology for instruction and administration. Thomas Edison is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the North.

#31 – Louisiana State University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,887

Louisiana State University’ online education administration programs include the online master’s in educational leadership. This completely online degree is designed for working professionals who have school leadership career aspirations. The program consists of 13 courses, each seven weeks long, which take approximately 15 months to complete. Some of the courses offered include administration of school personnel, best practices of principal leadership, ethics and educational leadership, supervision of instruction in elementary and secondary schools, and understanding and applying research in education. According to the program website, graduates of the program boast a 100% pass rate on the School Leaders Licensure Assessment. LSU is a nationally ranked institution and best value school.

#30 – Queens University of Charlotte

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Charlotte, North Carolina

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,730

Queens University of Charlotte’s online master’s in educational administration and leadership program is offered through the Cato School of Education. The program is 100% online and designed for working professionals. Admission requires no application fee, no GRE, and offers affordable graduate tuition. Courses include building community, leading diversity, leading in a global society, leading in human resources and finance, professional learning communities, and supervision to improve instruction. Also, to graduate, students must complete two semesters of the school executive leadership internship. Queens is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 20th best regional university in the South and the 30th best value school. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #61 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#29 – Florida State University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership and Administration

Tallahassee, Florida

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,543

Florida State University’s accredited online master’s in education administration program is designed to help those interested in pursuing leadership roles in various school settings. The degree can be completed entirely online, but applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA. Some of the required courses include data driven school improvement, leadership for diversity, legal aspects of public school administration, planning effective instruction, resource management for educational leaders, and teacher leadership development. Florida State is nationally recognized as a top public university. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 81st best national institution and 98th best value school. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #3 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#28 – Arizona State University

Online Master of Education in Educational Leadership

Tempe, Arizona

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,506

Arizona State University’s online master’s in educational leadership degree program is a principalship degree offered through the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College. The program consists of 11 courses, each lasting seven-and-a-half weeks, and 36 total credits. Admission to the program requires official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and an undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. GRE scores are not required for admission. Some of the required courses include American education systems, competency and performance in educational administration, critical issues in educational leadership, instructional leadership, instructional supervision, and school law. ASU is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 115th best national university in the country. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #40 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#27 – Old Dominion University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership – Administration and Supervision K-12

Norfolk, Virginia

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,480

Old Dominion University’s online education administration programs include the master’s in educational leadership. This cohort-based online program leads to full Commonwealth of Virginia Licensure in the area of educational administration and supervision. To be eligible for licensure, you must have completed three years of successful, full-time experiences. A total of 30 credit hours, including internships, is required to satisfy degree criteria. Courses are delivered online and taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. These courses include data analysis and decision making, establishing and leading professional collaborative communities, leadership for school improvement, and strategic human resource and fiscal management. Old Dominion is a top ranked national university by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #77 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#26 – Brandman University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Irvine, California

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,460

Brandman University’s online educational leadership master’s degree program prepares students looking to take on leadership roles in education-related fields but does not include certification credentials in school administration. The program may be completed entirely online by taking courses taught by university professors. These courses include comparative education, curriculum studies, democracy and social change, learning theory, and social foundations of education. Admission to the program requires two letters of recommendation, a current resume, and letter of intent. Also, applicants must have a 3.0 GPA in their undergraduate studies or submit satisfactory GRE scores. The GRE is waived for students with a GPA of 3.0 or better. Brandman University is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the West.

#25 – University of Northern Colorado

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership and Special Education Administration

Greeley, Colorado

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,444

University of Northern Colorado offers an accredited online master’s in education administration and special education administration. This program is one of the few delivered online in this highly specialized field of education. Classes may be completed entirely online and are taught by the same professors and experts who instruct on campus. Courses include applied research and evaluation, contemporary educational issues, contextual understanding of systems, parent and community engagement, program planning and organization, and the principalship. To apply, students must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a 3.0 GPA on the most recent 60 hours of college credit. The school is recognized by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national institution, and the online graduate education programs are ranked #123 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#24 – National University

Online Master’s in Educational Administration

La Jolla, California

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,232

One of the more affordable online educational leadership master’s degree programs on our list is the online master’s in educational administration from National University. The program is designed for students who are committed to improving and advancing education and want to become site administrators. The program also offers credential options in preliminary administrative services. A total of ten courses are required, which may be completed entirely online. These courses include action research, applications in leadership, curriculum leadership, instructional leadership, professional growth leadership, and school improvement leadership. The program is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the West, and its online graduate education programs are ranked #149 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#23 – Indiana Wesleyan University

Online MBA in School Administration

Marion, Indiana

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,937

Indiana Wesleyan University does not offer a pathway to an online educational leadership master’s degree, but allows students to earn an MBA with school administration specialization. The education program is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and is designed to equip degree candidates for business and leadership roles in school administration. Courses may be completed entirely online and include applied management theory, business strategy and policy, collaborative vision and instructional leadership, global management, innovation management, non-profit development and advancement, and professional and ethical leadership. A principal internship is also offered. The school is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 29th best regional university in the Midwest and the 64th best value school.

#22 – University of Kansas

Online Master’s in Educational Administration

Lawrence, Kansas

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,438

University of Kansas offers online education administration programs, including the master’s in educational administration. The flexible program is ideal for experienced K-12 educators who want to transition into leadership roles like principals, department heads, and assistant principals. There are two tracks of study: Building leadership track and the non-licensure track. The program consists of 12 courses, each running eight weeks in length. These courses include education in American society, education law, human resource management, instructional strategies and models, school resource management, and students in society. Admission requires a completed bachelor’s degree with a GPA equal to 3.0. The institution is ranked as a top national university and best value school by major publications like U.S. News and World Report.

#21 – Indiana University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Bloomington, Indiana

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,996

Indiana University offers an accredited online educational leadership master’s degree program designed to give students a unique understanding of the challenges schools face in leadership and administration. Students receive preparation to handle leadership roles in schools, districts, or other educational organizations. The program is also designed to prepare you for licensing as a building administrator, director, or superintendent. Courses may be completed entirely online and are taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. Admission requires an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with satisfactory GPA scores. The school is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 90th best national university, and the online graduate education programs are ranked #22 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#20 – Eastern Kentucky University

Online Master’s in Instructional Leadership

Richmond, Kentucky

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,750

Eastern Kentucky University’s online master’s in education administration program is a 100% online degree designed to help teachers acquire the knowledge needed to later pursue a school principal master’s degree. This 30-credit hour program is open to applicants with a valid state teaching certification and a 3.0 GPA in undergraduate work. GRE or MAT scores may also be required if the GPA stipulations are not met. All courses are delivered online and include curriculum for teacher leaders, exceptional learners in the general education classroom, leading achievement change, leading skills for teachers, nature and needs of exceptional students, and research for teacher leaders. Eastern Kentucky is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 73rd best regional university in the South and the 27th top public school. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #92 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#19 – University of Missouri

Online Master’s in PK-12 Educational Leadership and Administration

Columbia, Missouri

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,576

University of Missouri offers a blended online master’s in educational leadership program designed for working teachers with professional goals of becoming building administrators or elementary and secondary principals. The program consists of 31-37 credits and is accredited by the Teacher Education Accreditation Council. Most courses are delivered online, although some campus visits may be required. These courses are taught by university professors and include data-driven and evidenced based decision making, ethics and policy making, finance and law in schools, politics of school leadership, providing professional development, and school improvement. University of Missouri is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 120th best national university and 77th best value school. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #61 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#18 – University of West Florida

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Pensacola, Florida

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,062

University of West Florida’s online educational leadership master’s degree program is designed for students who wish to prepare for administrative and supervisory positions such as principal, district supervisor, or in-service director. Admission requires a valid teaching certification, a minimum of three years of teaching experience, and a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or better. All courses are delivered online and taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. These courses include administration of school personnel, data-driven decisions using standardized student achievement data, foundations of measurement, introduction to educational leadership, leadership in education – school improvement theory and practice, and principles of curriculum development. The institution is recognized and ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top national university.

#17 – Ball State University

Online Master’s in Educational Administration and Supervision

Muncie, Indiana

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,048

Ball State University offers an accredited online master’s in education administration program designed to prepare educators for the task of school leadership. The 36-hour program is offered entirely online and can be completed in as little as 18-20 months. The same professors who instruct in the classroom teach courses online. These courses include educational finance and ethics, education and ethics, human resource development, introduction to educational leadership, methodology of educational and psychological research, school law, supervision of instruction, and the school principal. Ball State is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #16 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#16 – University of Louisiana at Monroe

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Monroe, Louisiana

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,662

University of Louisiana offers one of the most affordable online master’s in educational administration programs on our list. The master’s in educational leadership is a 36-credit hour program designed to prepare school leaders to become certified in administration and supervision. Admission requirements include an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 2.75 and either GRE or MAT scores. Courses are delivered online and taught by university professors with academic and hands-on experience in the field. These courses include instructional supervision, leadership theory and practice, managing school and district resources, multicultural education perspectives, organizational theory and practice, and school community relations. The institution is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top national university.

#15 – University of South Dakota

Online Master’s in Educational Administration

Vermillion, South Dakota

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,558

One of the most affordable online educational leadership master’s degree programs on our list is the online master’s in educational administration from University of South Dakota. This flexible program offers small class sizes, accessibility to faculty and advisors, and convenient scheduling for working professionals. Three specialization tracks are also available so that students may tailor their degree toward career goals or areas of interest. These specializations include adult and higher education, pre-K-12 principal, and school district superintendent. Admission to the program requires official transcripts showcasing a satisfactory undergraduate GPA, three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and resume. The institution is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. Also, the online graduate education programs have received recognition.

#14 – Liberty University

Online Master of Education – Teaching and Learning – Leadership

Lynchburg, Virginia

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,430

One of the most affordable online educational leadership master’s degree programs on our list is offered by Liberty University. This NCATE-accredited master’s degree is 100% online and designed to prepare students for leadership roles in various private and public school settings. The program is accredited under the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education Standards through the CAEP Accreditation System. Several specialization options allow students to tailor their degree to meet career goals. Some of the specializations include leadership, special education, or student services. Courses for the leadership specialization include contemporary issues in education policy, leadership and supervision in education, school leadership in diverse settings, and technology practices for instructional improvement. Liberty’s online graduate education programs are ranked #174 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#13 – Park University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Parkville, Missouri

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,025

Park University is one of our top most affordable schools to offer an online educational leadership master’s degree program. The cohort model follows the same pacing and curriculum plan as the on-campus program. In fact, the online program mirrors the on-campus degree. A total of 30 completed credit hours are required for the degree. Courses are delivered online and include foundations of educational administration, law for educators, legal aspects of special education, and school and community leadership. Admission to the program requires a bachelor’s in education from an accredited college or university and a valid state teaching certificate. Other admission criteria may be located on the program website. U.S. News and World Report ranks the institution as a top regional university in the Midwest, and the online graduate education programs are ranked #197 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#12 – Lamar University

Online Master’s in Educational Administration

Beaumont, Texas

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,006

Lamar University offers one of the most affordable online master’s in educational administration programs on our list. This 36-credit hour graduate program can be completed in as little as 18 months and entirely online. University professors who routinely instruct in the classroom teach courses. These courses include curriculum management, diverse learners, fundamentals of leadership and technology, leadership for accountability, organization and management issues, school community relations, and school law. A five-week research course must also be completed as part of the degree requirements. Lamar is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. In fact, the online graduate education programs are ranked #77 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#11 – Emporia State University

Online Master’s in Educational Administration

Emporia, Kansas

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,806

One of the most affordable online educational leadership master’s degree programs on our list is the educational administration program at Emporia State University. This program is open to students with a valid teaching license, two recommendations, an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better, and a minimum of five years of professional experience. The program does lead to licensure at the state building level. Required courses include advanced educational psychology for teacher and administrators, analysis of research, curriculum leadership – models and strategies, human relations and group processes in education, school systems management, supervision and evaluation, and technological applications in school leadership. Emporia is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 122nd best regional university in the Midwest and 37th top public school. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #40 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#10 – Western Carolina University

Online Master’s in School Administration

Cullowhee, North Carolina

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,192

Western Carolina University offers a master’s in school administration, which may appeal to those seeking online master’s in educational leadership programs. This hybrid-style degree requires four face-to-face trainings in addition to online work. Admission is open to students with three years of successful full-time teaching, who hold or are eligible to hold a North Carolina teaching license, and who have completed a bachelor’s degree with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better. Most coursework is delivered online and includes current topics in public school law, curriculum leadership, leadership for continuous school improvement, and research methods. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 38th best regional university in the South and 13th top public institution.

#9 – American Public University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Charles Town, West Virginia

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,900

American Public University’s online master’s in education administration program is an educational leadership degree designed for educators who wish to specialize in K-12 administrator functions in public or private school settings. This 36-credit hour program takes approximately two years to complete when enrolled on a full-time basis. Courses are delivered online and taught by university professors with experience in the field. These courses include critical perspectives on diversity and culture, emerging issues and trends in education leadership, personnel and human resource management, and the professional school leader. American Public University is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the South.

#8 – Western Governors University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Salt Lake City, Utah

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,790

One of the most affordable online education administration programs on our list is the master’s in educational leadership from Western Governors University. This online master’s level program is open to experienced, licensed classroom teachers who are interested in becoming school principals. The completely online program offers flexible courses that are adaptable to busy and working schedules. Courses include comprehensive educational leadership integration, performance excellence criteria for educational leaders, strategic planning for educational leaders, student and market focus for educational leaders, and workforce focus for educational leaders. The program takes approximately 2 to 2.5 years to complete. Western Governors is an accredited institution, ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the West, and is one of the most affordable schools on our list.

#7 – Kennesaw State University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Kennesaw, Georgia

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,740

Kennesaw State University’s online educational leadership master’s degree program offers one of the most affordable degrees on our list. Accredited by the National Council of Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), the program is designed to prepare and develop educational leaders to direct schools for achievement. The program can be completed online with synchronous or asynchronous sessions. Courses are taught online by university professors who also teach in the classroom. These courses include data analysis and school improvement, education law and ethics, leading professional learning and change, leading teaching and learning in the 21st century, research in educational leadership, and school operations and community relations. Kennesaw is ranked as a top national university, and its online graduate education programs are also recognized as top ranked.

#6 – University of Nebraska

Online Master’s in Educational Administration

Kearney, Nebraska

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,693

University of Nebraska offers affordable online education administration programs, including the 36-credit hour master’s in educational administration. This completely online master’s program is open to applicants with a currently valid endorsement in education and two years of experience as a teacher in the content area. Classes are delivered online and include administrative theory, advanced educational psychology, current issues in education, curriculum planning, human resources management, introduction to educational administration, school and community relations, and social foundations of education. University of Nebraska is accredited and ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 64th best regional university in the Midwest. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #35 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#5 – Columbia College

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Columbia, Missouri

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,585

Columbia College’s online master’s in educational administration program prepares students for careers in educational leadership. Students residing in Missouri are eligible to pursue the initial principal certification with the available principal track. Classes are delivered online and taught by professors with experience both in and out of the classroom. These courses include curriculum design and evaluation, data-based instructional decision making, foundations and psychology of educational leadership, management of the classroom environment, and research design. Admission to the program requires applicants hold a bachelor’s degree with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 from an accredited institution. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school among the best regional universities in the Midwest.

#4 – Stephen F. Austin University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Nacogdoches, Texas

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,427

Stephen F. Austin University’s online master’s in education administration programs include the master’s in educational leadership, which includes an 18-hour principal certification for interested students. The program is nationally accredited through the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and maintains a rigorous curriculum taught by highly qualified professors. Admission requires an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university and an overall GPA of 2.75, two years of teaching experience, and Texas residency. All courses are delivered online. Stephen F. Austin is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 73rd best regional university in the West and the 22nd top public school. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked by U.S. News.

#3 – Arkansas State University

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Jonesboro, Arkansas

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,918

Arkansas State University’s online educational leadership master’s degree is a 36-credit hour program designed to be completed in as little as 20 months. Classes are taught by university professors who routinely teach in the classroom. These courses include administration and supervision of special education, curriculum management, ethical leadership, introduction to statistics and research, philosophies of education, planning and resource allocation, supervision and evaluation of teaching, and theories of instruction. For those seeking Arkansas licensure, classes are available. The institution is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 68th best regional university in the South and 25th top public school.

#2 – American College of Education

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Indianapolis, Indiana

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,840

American College of Education offers a 34-credit hour educational leadership program for those interested in seeking online master’s in education administration degrees. The program is accredited and one of the most affordable choices on our list. Also, the program is designed for aspiring administrators who want to hold a job while earning their master’s degree. Classes are delivered online and include assessment strategies, creating safe and supportive learning environments, developing teachers, diverse learners, research methods for educational leaders, resource and fiscal management, school improvement, and strengthening literacy for educational leaders. Admission requires an essay, interview, and satisfactory teaching experience.

#1 – University of Wyoming

Online Master’s in Educational Leadership

Laramie, Wyoming

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,673

The #1 most affordable online master’s in educational administration program on our list is the online master’s in educational leadership degree from University of Wyoming. The program is open to applicants with a bachelor’s degree, undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, and two years teaching experience with demonstrated potential for leadership at the school level. There is no GRE requirement for domestic students. Courses are delivered online and include assessment, accountability, and student learning; introduction to school law; leadership for curriculum development; leadership for school and community relations; and special education law. A total of 33 credits must be completed to satisfy degree requirements. University of Wyoming is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 181st best national university and 97th top public school in the nation.

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