Best Online Doctorate in Educational Administration Programs
Educational administrators oversee a school's daily activities, help coordinate the curricula, and manage teachers and other school staff. Many students who pursue a Ph.D. in educational administration go on to careers as principals, district leaders, or educators. They handle the politics of running a school, including meeting with superintendents, legislators, and community members to request funding for school programs. Depending on the size of school, other duties may include hiring school personnel, analyzing data, and handling teacher development. Principals at larger schools usually have staff members who handle these responsibilities.
A Ph.D. in educational administration will prepare you to work in education. Many doctoral programs in educational leadership prepare students for educator positions and to perform research at the collegiate level. Programs cover topics in academic affairs, student development, financial affairs, faculty development, management, legislation, and ethics. Graduates enter the workforce fluent in examining the organizational, political, social, managerial, interpersonal, and technical dimensions of schools. It's common for students to enroll in an online program, as most are adult learners already employed in education. Programs require five years of teaching experience on average, and a master's degree. It's common for programs to have a leadership aspect since common careers include director of student services, director of instructional technology, principal, and other director positions. Based on information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, graduates can expect to make over $80,000 a year.
Choosing a Program
DO I NEED PREVIOUS WORK EXPERIENCE TO GET IN?
Yes, most Ph.D. programs in educational administration are meant for current teachers and educators in leadership positions. Most programs require at least five years of teaching experience. Many work experience requirements are met when students complete their master's program.
HOW DO I FIND THE RIGHT ONLINE PROGRAM FOR ME?
Pay attention to the length of a program, the specializations offered, and any on-campus requirements. If you're interested in obtaining a K-12 certification or a focus in Christian ministry, then make sure they are offered before applying. Some programs require on-campus residencies or intensives, which can make earning a Ph.D. difficult for adult learners. You should also know where you want to end up in the long-term. Students who aspire for leadership positions, like dean of academia, will need to accrue experience as a college professor first.
CAN I WORK WHILE I COMPLETE MY ONLINE MASTER'S IN EDUCATIONAL ADMINISTRATION?
Yes, and since many students are already established in a career, most programs will try and work around your schedule. Online programs provide the most flexibility and are the most popular option for students who wish to continue working while in their program. Most degrees require students to earn around 90 credits at a full-time pace, which takes over three-years. Part-time educational administration degrees are also offered, but they are rare.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES TO EARNING MY Ph.D. ONLINE?
Given how extensive doctorate programs are, the biggest advantage to earning your Ph.D. online is the flexibility. Many educational administration online degrees are asynchronous, allowing students to study and complete coursework at their leisure. Distance learners are also generally able to complete their internship requirements close to where they live, instead of having to commute to their school's physical campus.
Accredited Online Doctorate in Educational Administration Programs
| School | Location | Description | Toggle |
|---|---|---|---|
Andrews University |
Berrien Springs, MI |
A private, Seventh-day Adventist school located in Berrien Springs, Michigan, Andrews University encourages intellectual inquiry and spiritual discovery through nearly 200 graduate and undergraduate programs. Founded in 1874, Andrews represents the flagship campus of the world's second-largest Christian-affiliated school system. For learners interested in advanced study, Andrews' College of Education and International Services offers a Ph.D. in higher education administration. Achievable in as little four years, Andrew's online doctorate in education administrationconsists of 90 credits and provides high-level training for learners seeking research and teaching work pertaining to policy and management. The program focuses on globalization in higher education administration by instructing degree seekers in curriculum design, policy standards, and cultural diversity. Andrews offers all courses completely online, allowing practitioners to seamlessly integrate education and professional work. In keeping with the learning objectives of a Ph.D. degree -- focusing on teaching and research -- enrolled candidates undertake a dissertation project following coursework. A capstone component, the dissertation gives advanced learners the opportunity to conduct research and make original contributions to the discipline. Successful applicants to this online Ph.D. in education administration must possess a relevant, accredited master's degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Applicants must also submit recent GRE scores, a current resume, three letters of professional recommendation, and a brief statement of purpose outlining their professional goals. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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Ball State University |
Muncie, IN |
Located in Muncie, Indiana, 50 miles northeast of Indianapolis, Ball State University is a public research university composed of eight academic colleges. Founded in 1918 by the Indiana General Assembly, the school engages a diverse student body in creative and intellectual endeavors designed to support fulfilling careers and lifelong learning. Ball State promotes this mission in all its academic programs, including a doctorate of education in educational administration and supervision. A practice-oriented degree created with future trainers and administrators in mind, the program requires 90 total credits, 48 of which learners must complete through Ball State. The course of study uses a hybrid delivery format, combining accommodating online learning modules with traditional face-to-face instruction. Designed to satisfy all licensure requirements in Indiana, Ball State's program also boasts a high level of flexibility to meet the individual needs of all enrolled learners, including those from out of state. Degree seekers pursuing this doctoral degree in higher education administration online receive intensive training in educational decision-making, methods of educational research, and school law. Graduates stand poised to assume high-level positions as education consultants, deans and academic advisors, university provosts, and fundraisers. Learners interested in Ball State's program must provide official academic transcripts demonstrating a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. They must also supply recent GRE scores, a current CV, and contact information for five references. The school also requires an academic writing sample and a short platform statement outlining their educational philosophy. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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Carson-Newman University |
Jefferson City, TN |
Initially founded in 1851 as a missionary seminary, Carson-Newman University is a private liberal arts institution affiliated with Tennessee Baptist Convention. Located in Jefferson City in east Tennessee, Carson-Newman strives to cultivate educated citizens and servant-leaders from a Christian perspective. For degree seekers interested in building careers as higher education administrators, Carson-Newman offers a doctor of education with a concentration in administrative leadership. This online doctorate in education administrationinvolves 57 credits, which most learners complete in three years or more. Delivered in both online and hybrid formats for degree seeker convenience, Carson-Newman's program cultivates creativity by developing the leadership skills necessary to implement research-based administrative strategies. Enrolled candidates forge these skills by studying major topics and subject areas in the discipline through eight-week course sessions. Topics include organizational leadership, critical analysis and research design, school management, legal and ethical issues, and policy implementation. Upon coursework completion, learners take a comprehensive exam designed to determine their readiness for a dissertation project, the program's core capstone constituent. The program also prepares degree seekers for administrative licensure in Tennessee and many other states by previewing the Praxis Leaders Licensure Assessment and offering portfolio preparation resources. Applicants to Carson-Newman's program must possess at least three years of professional teaching experience prior to admission. They must also provide a scholarly writing sample, recent GRE scores, official graduate and undergraduate transcripts, and a brief statement of purpose. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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Concordia University-Portland |
Portland, OR |
A private, nonprofit liberal arts school affiliated with the Lutheran Church, Concordia University provides a challenging, supportive learning environment where intellectual discovery meets justice, compassion, and integrity. Located in Portland, Oregon, the second most populous city in the Pacific Northwest, Concordia has prepared leaders for worldwide impact and professional success since 1905. The school's College of Education grants a doctorate of education with a concentration in administrative leadership, ideal for learners seeking careers in institutional management. Concordia offers this program completely online, using asynchronous delivery methods that allow learners and working professionals to access course materials at their convenience. The course of study involves 59 credits, which most learners complete in three years or more. Students pursuing this doctorate in education administration online receive instruction in visionary leadership and policy development through intensive, eight-week course sessions. Program graduates often find fulfilling work in both the public and private sectors as chief executives, superintendents, NGO owners, program administrators, and department heads. Degree seekers interested in admission to Concordia's program must hold relevant master's-level credentials from a regionally accredited institution. They should submit official academic transcripts demonstrating a 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA and provide a current resume, an academic writing sample, and a brief letter of intent addressing their professional goals and readiness for study. The university may also require an interview with the admissions committee. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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Florida State University |
Tallahassee, FL |
Florida State University (FSU) is a public land and sea grant research institution located in Tallahassee, Florida. Founded in 1851 by legislative action, FSU now sits on the oldest continuous site of higher education in the Sunshine State and serves nearly 40,000 learners each year. FSU promotes its mission of preserving, expanding, and disseminating scholarly knowledge across 16 schools and colleges and over 300 different programs of study. Among these programs is FSU's doctor of education in educational leadership and administration. A 69-credit course of study designed for full completion in 3-5 years, this doctorate provides education and training for learners seeking careers as practitioners in school administration and academic management. Classes cover all the topics necessary for these professions, including foundations of education, applied research methods, policy evaluation, and administrative best practices. FSU delivers all coursework fully online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning technologies. Successful applicants to FSU's online doctorate in education administrationmust possess a master's degree with a 3.5 minimum cumulative GPA. They should also provide a current resume, three letters of recommendation, a brief statement of purpose, and a research plan. GRE scores are also required, but applicants with at least 10 years of professional experience or in an educational setting with a least five years in a significant leadership role may be exempt. International applicants must also demonstrate English language proficiency by submitting TOEFL exam results. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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Sam Houston State University |
Huntsville, TX |
Located in Huntsville, Texas, just north of the Houston metropolitan area, Sam Houston State University (SHSU) prepares students for meaningful lives and professional success through scholarly research, service learning, and creative endeavors. Initially established in 1879 as a teacher-training school, SHSU currently represents the third-oldest higher education institution in Texas. Its Department of Educational Leadership confers a doctorate of education in developmental education administration that prepares degree seekers for administrative leadership in a number of higher learning outlets. SHSU's program requires a minimum of 60 credits in graduate-level instruction, plus a comprehensive exam and defense of an approved dissertation. Learners sit for the exam after earning 38 coursework credits in interdisciplinary topics pertaining to their area of study. These subjects include advanced learning theory in developmental education, qualitative research methods, contemporary issues in higher education, and learning environment design. The program delivers all course content asynchronously and completely online. After successfully completing coursework and the comprehensive exam, degree seekers submit a dissertation proposal. The dissertation acts as a capstone component for this online doctorate in education administration and allows candidates to conduct original research in the field. Interested applicants must provide graduate and undergraduate transcripts indicating a 3.5 minimum cumulative GPA. They must also submit a current CV, recent GRE scores, three professional or academic references, and a brief personal statement. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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Texas A & M University-Commerce |
Commerce, TX |
Established in 1899 as a satellite affiliate of the Texas A&M University System, Texas A&M University-Commerce (TAMUC) provides personal, accessible, and affordable learning experiences. Nestled in the heart of the Texas Blackland Prairies, TAMUC is located in Commerce, Texas, a Dallas-Fort Worth suburb. Home to five schools and colleges offering instruction in over 100 different academic subjects, TAMUC grants a doctor of education in educational administration ideal for learners seeking to advance their disciplinary training. This online doctoral degree in higher education administrationrequires 60 credits delivered digitally through a combination of flexible, innovative learning modules designed to accommodate learners' busy schedules. Courses provide advanced instruction in curriculum design, multicultural education, effective school leadership, and instructional administration. After degree seekers complete coursework, they take qualifying exams and complete a dissertation. Graduates of TAMUC's course of study are fully prepared to enter the workforce. They often obtain employment in educational, business, and government contexts as teachers, consultants, and administrative leaders. The school admits two cohorts of candidates each year. Applicants must hold a relevant master's degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.4. They must also submit current GRE scores and pertinent letters of recommendation. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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Texas Tech University |
Lubbock, TX |
Committed to rigorous learning and the promotion of knowledge, Texas Tech University (TTU) has provided graduate and undergraduate education in accordance with the highest standards of quality and excellence since 1923. Located in Lubbock, Texas, near the southern edge of the high great plains, TTU is a comprehensive public research institution with regional accreditation. The school's College of Education offers a doctor of education in higher education administration with two distinct concentrations: community college administration and higher education college/university administration. Degree seekers pursuing this doctorate in education administration onlineenroll in 60 cumulative credits designed for full completion in three years. Learners choose a concentration based on personal and professional goals, taking courses in strategic planning and institutional effectiveness, program assessment methods, organizational theories, and policy and finance in higher education. TTU uses a blended instructional format, offering all coursework online and requiring two intensive summer immersion sessions on the school's main campus. Learners must also attend a new student orientation and defend their dissertation in-person. Both sessions take place in Lubbock, Texas. TTU boasts a generous transfer policy, accepting up to 30 graduate-level credits into the program, potentially expediting learners' degrees. Applicants must submit all relevant transcripts from previous academic work, along with current GRE scores. They should also provide a resume, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and brief responses to four provided writing prompts. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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University of Nebraska-Lincoln |
Lincoln, NE |
A public research university located in Lincoln, Nebraska, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) offers a doctor of education in educational leadership and higher education, which best suits learners who want to assume leadership positions in educational organizations. Founded in 1869 as a land-grant institution by the Nebraska state legislature, UNL is the oldest university in the Cornhusker state and the largest affiliate in the University of Nebraska system. Housed in the school's College of Education and Human Sciences, this online doctoral degree in higher education administration online advances UNL's mission through teaching, research, and service. UNL's program requires 96 post-baccalaureate credits. Learners must earn 48 of these credits through UNL. Most students complete the program in three or more years, going on to obtain employment as school administrators, college provosts, curriculum designers, and other higher learning professionals. They receive rigorous instruction in organization development and change, higher education planning, curriculum development, and qualitative research methods. UNL delivers all course material in these topics completely online through efficient, asynchronous learning technologies. Applicants interested in pursuing this doctorate in education administration online must possess at least two years of full-time teaching experience. They should also provide recent GRE scores, a current resume, three letters of recommendation, a statement of goals, and three samples of academic research. International applicants must also demonstrate English language proficiency by submitting TOEFL exam results. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus |
Norman, OK |
In Norman, Oklahoma, just south of the Oklahoma state capitol, sits the University of Oklahoma (OU), a public research university committed to providing strong educational experiences through rigorous research and creative activity. Founded in 1890, nearly 20 years before Oklahoma statehood, OU initially trained pharmacists and other technical professionals needed in the region. Today OU serves more than 20,000 learners across nearly 200 academic programs, including a doctor of education in educational administration, curriculum, and supervision. This program requires 95 credits of eligible graduate coursework, including potential transfer credits. Degree seekers without sufficient transfer credits must supplement the program with additional electives, plus dissertation or research credits. Graduates of OU's online doctoral degree in higher education administration online often assume administrative leadership roles in educational institutions. Geared toward advanced learners and working professionals, this degree delivers all class material entirely online through intuitive and expedient distance learning tools. Enrolled learners receive expert instruction in management topics pertaining to primary and secondary education administration. These include ethics in education administration, strategic and financial planning, policy evaluation, educational technology, and instructional leadership. Degree seekers interested in admission to this online doctorate in education administrationmust provide official academic transcripts and a current resume. Applicants should also submit at least three letters of reference, recent GRE scores, a short personal essay, and two original pieces of written scholarship. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
What Else Can I Expect from an Online Doctorate in Educational Administration Program?
| Timeline | 4 to 5 years |
|---|---|
| Credit Hours | About 33 credit per year |
| Concentrations | School Leadership, District Leadership, Student Affairs, Curriculum and Instruction, Organizational Leadership, Assessment and Policy Studies in Education |
| Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission, State Board of School Administrators, State Department of Education, Educational Leadership Constituent Council |
| Additional Considerations | Residencies are often required. Students must hold a master's degree in a related field. Many positions require in-state licensure, which includes an exam and post-degree training. |
Employment Outlook for Master's in Educational Administration Graduates
Employment opportunities are strong for those in educational administration. Enrollments continue to rise as a postsecondary education becomes a standard for every worker. This increase in enrollments means that colleges and universities have more students and therefore a greater need for administrators to serve those students.
Compensation is also improved by attaining a Ph.D. in educational administration. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for an administrator was roughly $88,000. However, it is important to note that most educational administrator roles are found in colleges and universities, where the median wage for the same roles is actually closer to $91,000.
| Occupation | Projected Job Growth (2014-24) | Change in Number of Jobs (2014-24) |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary, Middle and High School Principals | 6% | +14,000 |
| Instructional Coordinators | 7% | +10,500 |
| High School Teachers | 6% | +55,900 |
| Postsecondary Teachers | 13% | +177,000 |
| Postsecondary Education Administrators | 9% | +15,200 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Educational administration degree holders have strong job prospects going forward: The Bls projects that the economy will add 270,000 positions in the field between 2014 and 2024. Most careers in the industry are keeping pace with, or exceeding, the national average growth rate of 7%.
| Occupation | Median Annual Salary for Entry-Level Employees (0-5 Years) | Median Annual Salary for Mid-Career Employees (5-10 Years) | Median Annual Salary for Experienced Employees (10-20 Years) | Median Annual Salary for Late-Career Employees (20 Years+) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary School Principal | $72,315 | $77,515 | $82,411 | $89,000 |
| High School Principal | $78,201 | $81,361 | $86,673 | $92,455 |
| Curriculum Developer | $50,894 | $60,444 | $69,292 | $78,619 |
| Head Teacher | $39,068 | $43,156 | $49,026 | $55,331 |
| Special Education Teacher (Secondary) | $42,174 | $48,584 | $52,045 | $62,261 |
Source: PayScale
The average career growth rate for the above careers is 37%. Curriculum developers experience the highest career growth with a 54.5% increase, but make the third lowest salary between the five positions. Special education teachers experience a growth rate of 47.6% and head teachers 41.6%.
Postsecondary Administrator: This is a catch-all term used for teachers, faculty members, and other personnel at the college and university level. These administrators oversee student services, academics, and faculty at their institutions. Common positions include deans, registrars, student administrators, admissions officers, and faculty researchers.
Postsecondary Teacher/college professor: With a Ph.D. in educational administration, graduates have the credentials to work as professors in colleges, universities, and community colleges, as well as at technical and trade schools. Additionally, many professors conduct research at their institution.
K-12 Principal: K-12 principals are responsible for managing all school operations at elementary, middle, or high schools. They supervise all daily happenings and are sometimes have assistant principals who assist with school administration. Duties include management, budgeting and finance, discipline, teacher evaluation, and curriculum approval.
Instructional Coordinator: Instructional coordinators are responsible for developing, evaluating, and implementing standardized curricula at all grade levels. They work with teachers to ensure students are learning the material and assess the effectiveness of the curriculum. Instructional coordinators are often required to have state licensure.
| Occupation | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Elementary, Middle and High School Principals | $90,410 |
| Postsecondary Administrators | $88,580 |
| Instructional Coordinators | $62,270 |
| Postsecondary Teachers | $72,470 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
It's important for students and professionals to make professional connections and to learn about different approaches to education. Professional organizations provide this, as well as a wealth of resources and knowledge about different career paths. Below are three established education organizations that host networking events and provide online training, job boards, and other services.
- The National Educational Association: The NEA is the nation's largest professional employee organization with the goal of ensuring that public schools provide all students with a quality education. This is accomplished by advocating for education professionals and by providing a variety of resources and grants on their website.
- The Association of American Educators: The AAE is a non-union professional organization for professional educators that is focused on student achievement above all else. This nonprofit provides benefits and services, like liability insurance and scholarships, for education professionals. This gives teachers peace-of-mind so that they can focus on educating students.
- National Association of Secondary School Principals: NASSP provides school leaders in 35 different countries with networking opportunities, continuing education programs, and the chance to become advocates in their chosen area of expertise. The organization recently celebrated its 100th anniversary.
Financing Your Online Doctorate in Educational Administration Program
AN OVERVIEW OF FINANCIAL AID
Approximately two-thirds of today's college students rely on loans to fund their education, but there are plenty of overlooked financing options you can use to reduce your overall student debt.
UNDERSTANDING THE FAFSA
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial first step for any student with financial needs. Our FAFSA guide features a step-by-step rundown on the process and answers to several frequently asked questions.
FINANCIAL AID FOR ONLINE STUDENTS
Financial aid for online learning is equivalent to what you'll find for campus-based learning, but that hasn't always been the case. Learn about the changes that have taken place, as well as the different funding opportunities available to online students.
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR SINGLE PARENTS
Online college programs can be a flexible, affordable option for single parents who are interested in earning a degree and securing their family's financial future. We've compiled a list of scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options geared toward single moms and dads.
FINANCIAL AID FOR VETERANS AND ACTIVE MILITARY
Millions of dollars in free money is available to U.S. military personnel, but much of it goes unused. Learn more about grants, scholarships, and other financial aid opportunities available to veterans, active-duty service members, and reservists.