Most Affordable Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
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College is only getting more expensive, so finding the most affordable master's degree to save you money with a high return on investment (ROI) is even more crucial than before. The cheapest online educational leadership programs are typically cheaper than in-person ones since you don't have to account for travel, housing, and other campus-related expenses.
You can go into leadership roles like elementary and high school administration, a principal or superintendent, or postsecondary educational administration. If you'd like to work directly with students, you can also become an academic director, counselor, or advisor to students.
Featured Online Master's in Educational Leadership Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Most Affordable Online Master's in Educational Leadership Programs
We use trusted sources like
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and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At the University of Florida, students anywhere can earn an educational leadership degree from one of the top online graduate education programs in the United States. The two-year M.Ed. in educational leadership program blends coursework with mentoring, field experience, and ongoing support for school leaders.
The 36-39-credit curriculum requires 10 courses that cover topics in the principalship, public school law, data-driven decision making, and administration of school personnel. Two elective courses examine how school leaders can lead change and effectively communicate.
Participants seeking to pursue Florida principal certification must complete an ESOL training requirement in this affordable online master's in education. Students typically complete six credits per semester, but can enroll on a full- or part-time basis. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA on the last 60 credits of undergraduate work and the GRE.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership
- Tuition: $734/credit in-state; $734/credit out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 36-39
- Program Length: 2 years
Delivery
- Format: 100% online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 minimum on last 60 credits of undergraduate work
- Standardized Tests: GRE (not required after fall 2020)
Indiana University-Bloomington
Bloomington, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Indiana University-Bloomington continues a tradition of rigor and affordability as one of the best value colleges in the nation. The fully online M.S.Ed. in educational leadership enrolls teachers interested in school leadership, though the department considers applicants with no teaching experience who can make a strong case for their inclusion.
The 36-credit curriculum deepens participants' leadership skills, enhances their professional development, and their understanding of the challenges facing the education field. Topics covered include school community relations, legal perspectives on education, and educational leadership: principalship K-12.
Enrollees use nine credits to customize the degree with a strand they choose in collaboration with an advisor, and must participate in a practicum in educational leadership. Fellowships help fund this affordable online master's in education. Admission requires a minimum 2.75 GPA, the GRE, and teaching or relevant work experience.
Program Overview
- Program Name: M.S.Ed. in Educational Leadership
- Tuition: $434/credit in-state; $520/credit out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 36 credits
- Program Length: 2+ years
Delivery
- Format: 100% online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.75 minimum
- Standardized Tests: GRE
- Work Experience: Teaching or relevant work experience in a related field preferred.
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida State University manages a robust virtual college. Teachers with at least two years of full-time pre-K-12 teaching experience can advance their careers with the fully online MS in educational leadership. The 33-credit degree, which blends theoretical knowledge and applied research opportunities, offers Florida certification and non-certification tracks.
The MS examines an array of topics, including how to plan effective instruction, data-driven school improvement, leadership for diversity, and the principalship. During a practicum, educators show how they can use their knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on students and schools. Students culminate the affordable master's in education with a comprehensive exam.
The College of Education at FSU offers more scholarship and fellowship opportunities than any similar department in Florida. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, the GRE, and a current Florida Professional Educator's Certificate.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Science in Educational Leadership
- Tuition: $444/credit in-state; $1,076/credit out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 33 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
Delivery
- Format: 100% online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 minimum in upper-division work
- Standardized Tests: GRE
- Work Experience: At least 2 years of full-time pre-K-12 teaching experience
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Central Florida celebrates 20 years of administering top online degrees in various disciplines. The MA in educational leadership offers a fully online curriculum designed to meet the needs of working professionals. The degree does not meet Florida Department of Education approval for educational leadership certification.
Learners interested in administrative and leadership positions in schools and other settings that do not require certification enroll in the program. The 30-credit curriculum examines topics in organization and administration of schools, educational supervisory practices, and educational systems planning and management.
Participants complete a nine-credit research and measurement component. They culminate the affordable education degree with a research report that synthesizes their learning. UCF pairs participants with a success coach charged with providing support from enrollment to graduation. All students pay comparably affordable tuition. Admission requires school transcripts.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
- Tuition: $357/credit in-state; $1,152/credit out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 30
- Program Length: 2 years
Delivery
- Format: 100% online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- Standardized Tests: No GRE required
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
La Crosse, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Educators seeking administrative certification in Wisconsin can enroll in the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse's online MSED in educational leadership emphasis. The degree prepares learners for administrative roles in the principalship.
The curriculum covers topics of the principalship, supervision and instruction, data-based decision making for instruction, and leadership and cultural competence. Participants engage in a supervised practicum focused on the school principalship. Learners culminate the degree with a thesis that incorporates original research and data.
All students in the affordable online master's in education pay the same tuition regardless of residency. Applicants with a minimum 3.5 GPA qualify for scholarships that cut tuition down by $54/credit. Admission to the MSED requires a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA, and one year of full-time teaching experience at the K-12 level.
Program Overview
- Program Name: MSED Educational Leadership Emphasis
- Tuition: $450/credit in-state: $450/credit out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 36-38
- Program Length: 2 years
Delivery
- Format: 100% online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 minimum
Work Experience: One year of full-time teaching experience at the K-12 level
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
San Diego State University administers an educational leadership program that ranks first in the state. In just one year, online learners can earn the MA in educational leadership. The degree uses a cohort model to prepare educators and administrators to assume leadership roles at the pre-K-12 school and district levels.
The curriculum requires 10 courses that examine topics in visionary leadership, school improvement leadership, organizational and systems leadership, and professional learning and growth leadership. All courses in the affordable master's in educational leadership focus on technology.
Students learn from faculty renowned for work in leadership and instruction. Graduates leave the program equipped to lead schools in the use of technology to improve student outcomes. Admission requires a minimum 2.85 GPA and the GRE. Cohorts start every summer.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
- Tuition: $17,940 divided over four semesters
- Credit Requirements: 30
- Program Length: One year
Delivery
- Format: 100% online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.85 minimum
- Standardized Tests: GRE
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The College of Education at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign prepares educators with a drive to make education accessible to all learners. The online M.Ed. in education policy, organization, and leadership models that approach with five concentrations, including global studies in education and educational administration and leadership.
The courses for the 32-36-credit curriculum depends on the specialization. Those interested in the global studies in education specialization delve into education and human rights, education and globalization, and global youth and citizenship.
The educational administration and leadership specialization covers public school finance, leading learning-centered schools, and leading school improvement. Students use synchronous online sessions to complete this affordable online master's in education. All students pay an affordable online tuition regardless of residency. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and no GRE.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Education in Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership
- Available Concentrations: Diversity and equity in education; education administration and leadership; human resource development; global studies in education; learning design and leadership
- Tuition: $482/credit in-state and out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 32-36
- Program Length: 2 years
Delivery
- Format: 100% online
- Instruction Style: Synchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 minimum
- Standardized Tests: Not required
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Iowa designs educational Leadership programs for working professionals. The 36-semester-hour MA in educational leadership offers both a hybrid principal licensure track and fully online non-licensure track. The program generally enrolls practicing teachers and administrators.
The MA's 24-credit core examines the foundation of school administration, school and community relationships, analysis and appraisal of curriculum, and supervision and evaluation. Those pursuing licensure use the remaining 12 semester hours to complete clinical coursework. Those in the non-licensure track work with an advisor to choose 12 credits in electives.
All students in the affordable master's in educational leadership culminate the degree with a comprehensive examination. Faculty deliver the degree asynchronously. All applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applicants seeking licensure must hold at least three years of teaching experience at the pre-K-12 level.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
- Available Concentrations: Principal licensure
- Tuition: $337/credit in-state and out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 36 semester hours
- Program Length: 2 or more years
Delivery
- Format: 100% online and hybrid
- Instruction Style: Synchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 minimum
- Work Experience: At least 3 years of teaching experience at the Pre K-12 level for those seeking a license
California State University-Sacramento
Sacramento, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
California State University - Sacramento's College of Education boasts graduates able to address the unique challenges of a changing educational landscape. The college's 30-credit MA in education focuses on higher education leadership.
The hybrid curriculum of this affordable online master's in education examines diversity in higher education, the dynamics of organizational change, and workforce development professional competencies. All students culminate the degree with a capstone research project or thesis that applies research in the practice of educational leadership.
Faculty deliver the program synchronously with face-to-face sessions held on Friday nights and Saturdays. Admission requires a minimum 2.5 GPA in the last 60 semester (90 quarter) units of the bachelor's, professional experience in higher education, and some leadership experience.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Arts in Education
- Available Concentrations: Higher education leadership
- Tuition: $2,082/0-6 units
- Credit Requirements: 30
- Program Length: 2 years
Delivery
- Format: Hybrid (online/on campus)
- Instruction Style: Synchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: A minimum 2.5 GPA in the last 60 semester (90 quarter) units
- Work Experience: Experience in higher education and some leadership experience
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At Florida Atlantic University, the College of Education offers the IDEAL master's in educational leadership program to train teachers for the principalship. Faculty designed the 42-credit IDEAL (Inclusive Development of Educational Administrators and Leader) to cultivate leaders of leaders, reflective practitioners, and transformative decision-makers.
The curriculum involves scenario-based learning and practical application of learned concepts. Topics covered include theory and assessment, school operations, instructional leadership I and II, and leadership for social justice. Students engage in clinical practice during a three-semester internship at their school.
Participants in the affordable master's in educational leadership attend on-site classes at FAU's campus in Boca Raton, or join remotely in real-time through the college's video-conferencing platform. All students pay the same per-credit tuition. Admission requires a minimum 2.5 GPA in the bachelor's degree, at least three years of teaching experience, and no GRE.
Program Overview
- Program Name: IDEAL Master's in Educational Leadership for School Leaders
- Tuition: $304/credit in-state and out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 42 credits
- Program Length: Six semesters
Delivery
- Format: Hybrid (online/on campus)
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.5 GPA in upper-division coursework in the bachelor's degree
- Standardized Tests: GRE not required
- Work Experience: At least 3 years' of teaching experience
Oakland University
Rochester Hills, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Michigan, Oakland University is a public college with an enrollment of about 20,000 students. OU offers the M.Ed. in educational leadership, a state-approved principal training program that leads to a Michigan administrative K-12 certificate. Students complete the 32-credit program in just 22 months. The curriculum develops administrators highly skilled in leadership theories and techniques, staff and curriculum development, school finance and business administration, and other key areas. The school-based internship provides hands-on experience in an educational environment.
A school leader provides invaluable support through a mentoring relationship with the mentee. Participants leave the program with an e-portfolio documenting their accomplishments. The school offers affordable tuition and comprehensive financial aid. Admission to the affordable online master's in education requires a minimum 3.0 GPA. Some teaching experience is preferred, though not required.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership
- Tuition: $771/credit in-state; $1,027/credit out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 32
- Program Length: 22 months
Delivery
- Format: 100% online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 minimum
- Work Experience: Teaching experience recommended, but not required
University of Wyoming
Laramie, WY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Situated in Laramie, the University of Wyoming develops effective educational leaders through a principal preparation program offered to distance learners. The MA in education with a concentration in educational leadership can lead to K-12 principal certification.
The 33-credit curriculum examines leadership for curriculum development; leadership for instruction; an introduction to school law; and assessment, accountability, and student learning. All students complete a course that introduces them to research methodologies. The principal internship gives aspiring school leaders 435 hours (11 weeks) of practical leadership experience at elementary, middle, and high school grade levels.
Tuition at UW consistently ranks among the nation's best for value. Several scholarship opportunities may help lower tuition. Admission to the affordable master's in education requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and at least two years of teaching experience.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
- Tuition: $2,439/9 credits in-state; $7,299/9 credits out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 33
- Program Length: 2+ years
Delivery
- Format: 100% online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 minimum
- Work Experience: At least 2 years of teaching experience
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
Baton Rouge, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The state's Flagship college, Louisiana State University manages a virtual college that makes learning accessible and affordable. The M.Ed. in educational leadership expands on educators' classroom experience by equipping them with advanced management and leadership skills.
The program consists of 13 seven-week courses that participants complete in as few as 15 months. Faculty explore issues of ethics and educational leadership, administration of school personnel, how to apply research in education, and implement school improvement initiatives. A four-part series examines best practices of principal leadership.
All students in the affordable master's in education pay the same affordable tuition no matter where they live. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA in the final 60 credits of the bachelor's, a teaching certificate from Louisiana or another state, and at least two years of teaching experience.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership
- Tuition: $459/credit in-state; $459/credit out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 39
- Program Length: 15 months or more
Delivery
- Format: 100% online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 GPA
- Work Experience: At least 2 years of teaching experience in a certification area. Valid Louisiana Type B or Level 2 teaching certificate, or one that's comparable from out-of-state, required
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
George Mason University is Virginia's largest public research college. The fully online M.Ed. in education leadership enrolls educators interested in pursuing school- or district-level administrative positions. The 30-credit degree leads to Virginia administration and supervision pre-K-12 endorsement.The curriculum of this affordable education degree requires coursework in education law, organizational theory and leadership, the use of research to lead school improvement, and how to manage financial and human resources. An internship provides educators with at least one year of educational leadership experience.
Participants complete the M.Ed. in two years when they take two courses each semester. Mason lauds in-state graduate tuition that ranks low compared to similar colleges. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 hours of the bachelor's, a valid teaching license, and at least two years of full-time teaching experience.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership
- Tuition: $707/credit in-state; $907/credit out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 30
- Program Length: 2 years
Delivery
- Format: 100% online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 minimum in the last 60 hours of the bachelor's
- Work Experience: At least 2 years of full-time teaching experience
Towson University
Towson, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Towson University lauds the institution's reputation for helping to create some of the best schools in Maryland through educator preparation. The fully online MS in transformational educational leadership enrolls educators with at least three years of experience who want to assume leadership roles.
The 36-unit curriculum embeds the requirements for Maryland's Administrator I certification. Participants acquire expertise in the leadership of schools and groups, curriculum and assessment, evidence-based decision making, and transformational leadership. They apply learning during a 300-hour internship in a school system. Students may also choose a hybrid format with face-to-face classes in Towson or other locations around the state. U.S. News & World Report ranks TU among the best values in higher education. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and state certification/licensure as a teacher or school professional.
Program Overview
- Program Name: MS in Transformational Educational Leadership
- Tuition: $612/unit in-state; $1,104/unit out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 36
- Program Length: 2-3 years
Delivery
- Format: 100% online and hybrid (online/on campus)
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 minimum
- Work Experience: At least 3 years of experience
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Through Mizzou Online, the University of Missouri opens up access to more than 125 online programs. The M.Ed. in educational leadership and policy analysis offers an emphasis in pre-K-12 educational leadership and administration. The two-year degree leads to elementary/secondary principal certification.
The 31-37-credit curriculum covers the supervision of learning environments, leadership for data-driven change, school improvement, and learning curriculum and assessment for school leaders. A six-credit internship provides hands-on experience. Students complete much of the degree online, blending virtual learning with face-to-face weekend sessions four to five times per term.
Distance learners qualify for in-state tuition no matter where they live, making this an affordable online master's in education. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 hours of the bachelor's and no GRE.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis
- Tuition: $453/credit in-state and out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 31-37
- Program Length: 2 years
Delivery
- Format: Hybrid (online/on campus)
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private college located in Pennsylvania, Lehigh University offers a hybrid M.Ed. in educational leadership for working professionals interested in assuming leadership roles at educational institutions and related organizations.
The 30-credit degree requires a five-course core that examines organizational leadership, diversity, and data-based decision making. Learners must pursue a 15-credit area of interest, such as special education, learning and technology, or school counseling. Degree-seekers in this affordable online master's in education complete just two more courses to qualify for Pennsylvania principal certification.
Lehigh offers most courses on campus and some online. Students complete the degree in 18-24 months and may opt for full- or part-time enrollment. All students pay the same affordable tuition regardless of residency. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and school transcripts.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership
- Available Concentrations: Learners may design 15-credit areas of interest, such as special education, learning and technology, or teaching
- Tuition: $565/credit in-state; $565/credit out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 30
- Program Length: 18-24 months
Delivery
- Format: Hybrid (online/on campus)
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 minimum
California State University-East Bay
Hayward, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At California State University-East Bay, the MS in educational leadership prepares leaders who can help improve school systems and enhance student performance. The fully online program offers a Preliminary Administrative Services Credential (PASC) option for those who hold a current California teaching credential.
The 24-month MS ideally serves educators in pre-K-12 schools and educators at community colleges. Faculty design the affordable master's in education using a cohort model. The 30-36-credit curriculum covers social justice and equity in urban schools, collaborative research for equity, and transforming professional learning to support equitable student outcomes.
Students pay one affordable tuition regardless of residency. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA. The PASC option has additional requirements, including at least five years of full-time K-12 teaching or service experience and additional MS fieldwork.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Science in Educational Leadership
- Tuition: $442/semester unit in-state and out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 30-36
- Program Length: 24 months
Delivery
- Format: 100% online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 minimum
- Work Experience: PASC applicants must have at least 5 years of full-time K-12 teaching or service experience
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Oklahoma State University has 45 years of experience placing student affairs graduates at colleges across the United States. The MS in educational leadership studies: higher education continues that tradition by cultivating scholars who can lead higher education institutions.
The 36-credit curriculum explores student development theory, the impact of college on students and society, and leadership theory and ethical decision making. With electives, participants explore learning in a digital age and the community junior college. Enrollees complete an internship in higher education and student affairs.
The program's capstone course requires a creative component and portfolio. Faculty deliver the MS using a combination of face-to-face classes at the Stillwater campus and online coursework. OSU offers affordable tuition and scholarships that can help reduce costs. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Program Overview
- Program Name: MS in Educational Leadership Studies: Higher Education
- Tuition: $370/credit in-state; $1,016/credit out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 36
- Program Length: 2-3 years
Delivery
- Format: Hybrid (online/on campus); 100% online from fall 2021
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 minimum
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley trains educators able to advocate for academic excellence and lead change in schools. The 30-credit M.Ed. in educational leadership offers a 10-month curriculum for busy educators to advance their careers faster.
The degree pays particular attention to developing school leaders able to serve diverse students, especially English language learners. The curriculum examines organizational leadership, instructional leadership, school community relations, and the principalship. A notable course focuses on the alignment of budgeting with HR areas, such as recruitment and retention.
At UTRGV, accelerated online graduate programs feature affordable tuition and a full complement of financial aid. Students may qualify for a $1,000 Graduate Dean's Accelerated Online Scholarship. Admission to the affordable online master's in education requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and the GRE.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership
- Tuition: $458/credit in-state and out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 30
- Program Length: 10 months
Delivery
- Format: 100% online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 minimum
- Standardized Tests: GRE
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Wilmington, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of North Carolina Wilmington's College of Education designs programs for certified teachers who want to advance their knowledge and expertise in specialized areas. The M.Ed. in leadership, policy, and advocacy in early childhood trains school leaders who can improve the lives of young children and families.
The 36-credit program delves into core topics of leadership theory and behavior, public policy and advocacy for children and families, and diverse families and children in communities. With up to 15 elective credits, educators hone skills in budget and finance or organizational development for early childhood programs.
Students use six credits to complete a two-part advocacy research project that culminates the affordable master's in education. Admission requires a preferred minimum 3.0 GPA, bachelor's degree in early childhood education or a related field, and no GRE.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Education in Leadership, Policy and Advocacy in Early Childhood
- Tuition: $590/credit in-state; $2,319/credit out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 36
- Program Length: 2 years
Delivery
- Format: 100% online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 minimum preferred
Ramapo College of New Jersey
Mahwah, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ramapo College of New Jersey is the state's premier public liberal arts college. The
MA in educational leadership prepares educators for standard New Jersey Supervisor and Principal Certificate of Eligibility in just one year. Faculty ground the curriculum in theoretical studies and a sequence of field-based experiences.
The 36-credit curriculum consists in part of eight four-credit courses that examine topics in change leadership; effective leadership and school management; curriculum planning, design, and development; and contemporary educational leadership: theories and practice. Graduates leave the program skilled in the use of data for curriculum-based decision making.
Educators complete two 150-hour internships that provide practical experience. All students in the MAEL pay one affordable tuition regardless of residency. Admission to the affordable master's in educational leadership requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and valid state-issued teacher certification.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
- Tuition: $722/credit in-state; $722 credit out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 36
- Program Length: 12 months
Delivery
- Format: 100% online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 minimum
- Standardized Tests: GRE or GMAT
The University of Texas at Arlington
Arlington, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Texas at Arlington developed a fully online M.Ed. in educational leadership and policy studies in collaboration with area school districts. The 30-credit program cultivates educators equipped to assume roles as principals or assistant principals.
The 16-month curriculum covers leadership theory, the principalship, curriculum design, and diversity in educational settings. Participants culminate the degree with an internship and an accompanying professional portfolio and research project. In order to earn the standard Texas principal certificate, candidates need a master's degree, a valid Texas classroom teaching certificate, and at least two years of teaching experience.
UTA emphasizes affordable online education and offers flexible payment options. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA. UTA does not offer the program in every state.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
- Tuition: $277/credit in-state and out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 30
- Program Length: 16 months
Delivery
- Format: 100% online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 minimum in the last 60 hours of the bachelor's degree
- Standardized Tests: GRE for some students
- Work Experience: At least 2 years of relevant work experience
Georgia College & State University
Milledgeville, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Milledgeville, Georgia College and State University administers an M.Ed. in educational leadership that enrolls certified teachers who want to advance to administrative careers. The program offers an accelerated 36-credit curriculum that educators complete fully online in just one year.
Faculty use a cohort model to examine issues in management and compliance, stakeholder relationships, continuous improvement, and equity and differentiation. Participants culminate the degree with an exit requirement that includes an electronic portfolio presentation. The school recommends the educator for Tier I certification once they complete the GACE Educator Ethics for Leadership test.
All students pay the same affordable tuition regardless of residency. Admission requires a minimum 2.75 GPA and coursework on the education of children with special needs. The affordable master's in education begins each August and ends the following summer.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership
- Tuition: $288/credit in-state and out-of-state
- Credit Requirements: 36 credits
- Program Length: 12 months
Delivery
- Format: 100% online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.75 minimum
- Work Experience: Some classroom teaching experience
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT - 2 years
- Online
Established as a virtual college by governors in the 1990s, Western Governors University continues to innovate with accessible, affordable, competency-based teacher preparation programs. The 39-unit MS in educational leadership gives licensed teachers a pathway to the principalship or assistant principalship with a fully online curriculum and practical experience.
The program develops leaders with expertise in areas of school law, school finance, curriculum design and instruction, and data literacy and evidence-based practice. Educators engage in a two-part practicum that gives them experience under the direction of a practicing school principal or assistant principal.
A capstone requires that educators use their knowledge to solve a challenge in the school environment. About 73% of students complete this degree in 24 months. WGU's per term tuition saves educators money. Admission to the affordable master's in education requires teacher certification and school transcripts.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Master of Science in Educational Leadership
- Tuition: $3,240/six-month term
- Credit Requirements: 39 units
- Program Length: 24 months on average
Delivery
- Format: 100% online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Admission Requirements
- Work Experience: Some classroom experience
How We Rank Schools
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We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. This ranking is from 2022. To learn more, check out our full ranking methodologies.
How Much Does a Master's in Educational Leadership Cost?
An in-person master's education can cost you a median of $35,700 per year, accounting for tuition, fees, housing, and course materials. Private nonprofit colleges cost more on average than public institutions before financial aid.
Fully online master's degrees are typically cheaper than in-person by over 30%, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. The median cost of an online master's degree is about $24,290 a year, saving you about $10,000 from the median in-person cost. Some of the most affordable online master's degree programs range from $4,000 to $7,000 a year.
Total In-Person Master's Degree Costs
Public Institutions (In 2023 Dollars)
$59,440
Private Institutions (In 2023 Dollars)
$85,400
5 Ways to Help You Pay for Your Master's in Educational Leadership
For grad school, you may have to pay the full price — or sticker price — for college. However, there are federal and state opportunities for free money to help you pay for your education. While many people take out loans, try out these ways first to get money you don't have to pay back.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
The first step in applying for financial aid is filling out the FAFSA. This application determines eligibility for financial aid from the federal government through grants, work-study programs, and loans. Colleges and universities also use your FAFSA to determine scholarships and other aid awards.
Note: If you are an undocumented student, you won't be able to fill out your FAFSA. Check to see if your state offers state financial aid for undocumented students.
Grants
Your school may offer grant opportunities after you complete the FAFSA. Grants are non-repayable gifts by an organization to fund your projects or education. You typically have to write a proposal to the organization for the grant, and winning isn't guaranteed.
Work-Study Programs
Federal work-study programs offer low-income students part-time work at their school or an outside organization. Earned income can go directly to tuition costs, or you can deposit it in your bank account. You may work as a research assistant, tutor, office support staff, and more.
Scholarships
There are numerous scholarship opportunities available for you in the educational field. Professional associations, educational organizations, colleges, and universities offer this merit-based financial aid assistance. For example, the American Association of School Administrators grants a $2,500 scholarship to graduate students intending to become school superintendents.
Loans
Many students take out college loans. The federal government offers graduate students different loan options. These loans usually offer lower interest rates than private student loans from a bank. In addition, some institutions, such as credit unions, provide specialized loan programs for aspiring educators and administrators.
How Much Will You Make With a Master's in Educational Leadership?
You can find careers in education administration from the preschool level to the college level. If administration isn't your speed, you can also become an educational, guidance, or career counselor or advisor. Here are just a few jobs from the Bureau of Labor Statistics ranging from highest to lowest paid.
| Job Title | Median Annual Salary (May 2023) |
|---|---|
| K-12 Education Administrators | $103,460 |
| Postsecondary Education Administrators | $102,610 |
| Education Administrators, All Other | $88,460 |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors | $61,710 |
| Education and Childcare Administrators in Preschool and Daycare | $54,290 |
| Directors in Religious Activities and Education | $50,140 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap Online Master's in Educational Leadership
Is a master's in educational leadership worth it?
An online master's in educational leadership is worth it, depending on what field and academic level you pursue. The median cost of an online master's degree is about $24,290 a year. This means you can earn a high ROI for K-12 and postsecondary education administrators, where the median salary is above $100,000 a year.
What can you do with a master's in educational leadership?
You can go into educational administration and work with students from preschool to college. Some of the most common job titles are elementary and secondary school principals, educational system superintendents, college deans, counselors, department chairs, university registrars, and advisors.
What are the highest-paying jobs with an online degree in educational leadership?
K-12 and postsecondary education administrators have the highest median pay in educational leadership with a salary over $100,000 per year, only differing by about $1,000. If you want to pursue even higher administrative levels like a college provost, president, or chancellor or pursue higher education board work, you may need to earn a higher degree.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed April 26, 2024.
