Whether your goal is to become a principal, department head, or district-level changemaker, an online master’s in educational leadership can help you move from influencing a classroom to impacting an entire school. This guide breaks down top programs, curriculum, potential costs, and career outcomes.
Author: Blake Huggins, PhD
Expertise:
Graduate EducationOnline LearningBusiness AdministrationEditor: Jordan Cosselman
- Which Student Are You?
Which Educational Leadership Program Track Fits You Best?
Read more - Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
Read more - Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
Read more - FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
Read more - Salary/Pay
What Can Education Leaders Earn with a Master's Degree?
Read more - Resources
More resources that dive deeper into specific degree programs, student success, and more…
Read more - Top Schools
A list of the best schools currently offering the best online and hybrid master’s programs in the state...
Read more
Which Educational Leadership Program Track Fits You Best?
Educational leadership degrees can point toward a principal’s office, a district cabinet role, or education policy work outside a school building entirely, and the licensure requirements shift with each. A mismatch here can add semesters you didn’t plan for. Look at the profiles below to see which leadership path actually matches where you want to go.
Which Educational Leadership Student Best Describes You?
The Career Starter
You’re an early-career, already-licensed teacher who wants to start developing leadership skills — as a future department chair, coach, or administrator — well before you leave the classroom.
Educational leadership programs assume you already hold a teaching license and build leadership skills — mentoring, facilitation, school improvement — on top of it, whether or not you pursue formal administrative licensure. Starting early lets you take on informal leadership roles, like leading a grade-level team, long before you’re ready for an administrator title.
The Career Changer
You’re moving from the classroom into a broader leadership role and want a program that lets you choose between an administrative license and a non-licensure leadership path.
Because educational leadership programs typically offer both an administrative-licensure track and a non-licensure teacher-leadership track, you can choose the path that actually matches the role you’re moving into. A fully online format fits around a full-time teaching schedule while you plan your transition.
The Promotion Seeker
You’re an experienced teacher who wants to move into formal school leadership and needs the administrative license your state requires to become a principal.
The administrative-licensure track covers school law, supervision, and finance, and includes the supervised internship most states require before you can be hired as a principal or assistant principal. A hybrid format fits around your current full-time teaching schedule.
The Working Balancer
You’re currently teaching or working in a school leadership role full-time and want to finish your degree without stepping back from it.
A fully online, part-time program with summer and evening options fits the school-year schedule educators actually have, so you can make progress over breaks rather than squeezing coursework into an already full day. Many districts also tie leadership pay scales directly to a completed degree.
The Teacher Leadership Coach
You want to lead from within the classroom — as a department chair, mentor teacher, or instructional coach — without becoming a school administrator.
A non-licensure teacher-leadership track skips the administrative-license requirements and focuses instead on adult learning, mentoring, and coaching skills that department chair and instructional coach roles actually use day to day. A hybrid format fits around your current teaching load.
The Education Policy Leader
You want to shape education from outside a single school building — through policy work, education nonprofits, or advocacy organizations.
A non-licensure track with a policy concentration builds skills in systems-level thinking, advocacy, and organizational leadership that don’t require a school administrator’s license at all. A fully online format suits this path well, since many education policy and nonprofit roles aren’t tied to a school-year calendar.
3 Notable Online MEd in Educational Leadership Programs
University of Florida — MEd in Educational Leadership (School Leadership track)
The University of Florida’s online MEd in Educational Leadership is a nationally ranked program designed for aspiring school administrators.
Coursework focuses on administrative leadership, instructional supervision, school law, finance, and data-driven decision making. Graduates are eligible for Florida Level 1 Educational Leadership certification, a requirement for K–12 assistant principals and principals in Florida.
A required field experience, mentored by practicing school leaders, ensures students gain hands-on leadership practice before graduation.
Program Details:
- Duration: ~2 years (flexible pacing)
- Mode: Online, with required local field internship
- Cost: $549/credit (FL resident) | $688/credit (non-resident)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3.0 upper-division GPA)
- Valid teaching license (for certification track)
- 3+ years of teaching experience (by certification recommendation)
- Transcripts
- Statement of goals
- 2–3 recommendation letters (one from a supervisor or principal encouraged)
University of Cincinnati — Online Master’s of Educational Leadership
The University of Cincinnati’s online MEd in Educational Leadership equips licensed educators with real-world administrative skills. Students choose from three concentrations:
- Principal Leadership
- Special Education Leadership
- General Administration & Policy (non-licensure)
All tracks emphasize leadership theory, organizational management, and community engagement. Licensure concentrations include internships aligned with Ohio certification requirements, while the general track is ideal for those not pursuing principal licensure.
Program Details:
- Credits: 30
- Mode: Online (asynchronous); local internships for licensure tracks
- Cost: $746/credit (OH resident) | $761/credit (non-resident)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (3.0 GPA preferred)
- Valid teaching license (required for principal track)
- 2+ years of teaching experience (recommended for licensure)
- Transcripts
- Goals statement
- 2 letters of recommendations
Louisiana State University (LSU Online) — Online MEd in Educational Leadership
LSU’s online MEd in Educational Leadership is an accelerated program for experienced educators seeking administrative roles. The 13-course curriculum covers instructional leadership, ethical decision making, school law, finance, and data-informed improvement. Graduates meet the academic requirements for Louisiana Level 1 principal certification.
LSU Online provides strong student support, including free transcript retrieval services and career resources.
Program Details:
- Duration: 15 months (five 7-week terms)
- Mode: Online (asynchronous)
- Cost: $459 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3.0 GPA)
- Valid teaching certificate (Louisiana Level 2 or equivalent)
- 2+ years of certified teaching experience
- 3 letters of recommendation (including one from a principal attesting to leadership potential)
- Resume
- Personal statement of purpose
Tuition & Fees for Online Educational Leadership Programs
The primary cost of an online MEd in Educational Leadership is tuition, typically charged per credit. Some universities offer flat online rates, while others differentiate between in-state and out-of-state tuition. Variable costs may include:
- Technology or distance learning fees
- Practicum or internship fees
- Course materials (textbooks or e-books)
Online delivery can reduce expenses by eliminating relocation and commuting costs, and many students continue working full time while enrolled. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance can further offset costs.
| University | Credits | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida — Online M.Ed. Educational Leadership | 36 | $687.87 | ~$24,760 |
| University of Cincinnati — M.Ed. Educational Leadership | 30 | $761 | $22,830 |
| Louisiana State University — M.Ed. Educational Leadership | 39 | $459 | $17,901 |
Note: Tuition figures above are based on the latest data. Totals do not include university fees or supplies.
FAQs from Prospective Educational Leadership Students
Why is accreditation important for an online MEd in Educational Leadership?
Accreditation ensures your degree is respected and licensure-eligible. Accredited programs undergo rigorous quality reviews to confirm curriculum relevance and professional alignment.
Programs accredited by CAEP or approved by a state education department meet standards required by employers and licensing boards. Degrees from unaccredited institutions may not be recognized, so always verify both institutional and programmatic accreditation before enrolling.
Can I work full-time while earning my MEd in Educational Leadership online?
Yes, these programs are designed for working educators. Most offer:
- Part-time enrollment options
- Flexible pacing
- Online formats that accommodate professional schedules
Universities expect students to balance work and study and structure programs accordingly. Many students adjust timelines without penalty if needed.
What kinds of courses will I take in an Educational Leadership master’s program?
You’ll complete a blend of leadership, policy, and education-focused coursework, such as:
- Educational law and ethics
- School finance and budgeting
- Curriculum development and instructional leadership
- School operations management
- Data-driven decision making
Many programs also include a leadership practicum or internship, where you work under a mentor principal. By graduation, students gain a comprehensive understanding of school administration and improvement planning.
Do I need to be a licensed teacher to apply for this master’s program?
It depends on the program and track.
Many Educational Leadership MEd programs require or strongly prefer applicants with teaching experience, especially those leading to principal licensure, which often requires 2+ years of teaching and a valid license.
However, some universities offer non-licensure leadership tracks open to candidates from outside K–12 teaching. Always review prerequisites carefully if you’re coming from an alternate background.
Q5: How long does it take to earn an online MEd in Educational Leadership?
Most students finish in about two years.
A typical program includes 30–36 credits spread across fall, spring, and summer terms. Accelerated options are available at some schools — LSU’s program, for example, can be completed in as few as 15 months with an intensive course load.
What Can Education Leaders Earn with a Master’s Degree?
A master’s in educational leadership develops the skills needed to lead complex educational organizations — from K-12 schools and districts to colleges and educational nonprofits. Graduates move into roles as principals, district administrators, provosts, and academic affairs directors — shaping institutional culture, equity, and performance. The credential signals readiness for senior leadership and is often required for administrative licensure.
Leadership roles in postsecondary education tend to offer strong compensation relative to teaching positions, particularly at larger research universities and multi-campus systems. Institutional budget, mission, and geography all influence salary ranges.
Browse the salary table below to see what postsecondary education administrators earn across states, and understand the financial potential of an education leadership career.
Education Administrators, Postsecondary
| Area | Median | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $104,590 | $144,370 | $215,620 |
| Alabama | $100,030 | $132,170 | $211,370 |
| Alaska | $103,080 | $133,190 | $155,670 |
| Arizona | $103,280 | $142,060 | $213,610 |
| Arkansas | $78,240 | $118,520 | $166,240 |
| California | $125,460 | $169,550 | $216,480 |
| Colorado | $118,440 | $171,380 | $239,370 |
| Connecticut | $123,190 | $169,560 | $220,570 |
| Delaware | $128,570 | $175,240 | $331,850 |
| District of Columbia | $107,390 | $172,300 | $246,220 |
| Florida | $83,840 | $104,780 | $153,610 |
| Georgia | $110,200 | $161,550 | $230,780 |
| Hawaii | $81,020 | $102,250 | $133,560 |
| Idaho | $101,200 | $128,670 | $169,370 |
| Illinois | $99,770 | $128,420 | $172,540 |
| Indiana | $98,000 | $139,940 | $213,580 |
| Iowa | $89,320 | $129,320 | $174,270 |
| Kansas | $110,020 | $152,520 | $227,000 |
| Kentucky | $114,310 | $167,080 | $230,220 |
| Louisiana | $98,840 | $139,060 | $214,270 |
| Maine | $88,180 | $127,150 | $178,200 |
| Maryland | $118,550 | $166,910 | $228,880 |
| Massachusetts | $128,970 | $171,900 | $228,410 |
| Michigan | $108,500 | $167,290 | $236,640 |
| Minnesota | $104,740 | $134,500 | $176,270 |
| Mississippi | $86,590 | $132,170 | $219,180 |
| Missouri | $104,560 | $156,650 | $213,740 |
| Montana | $102,980 | $137,470 | $174,190 |
| Nebraska | $96,030 | $133,660 | $215,130 |
| Nevada | $88,810 | $133,800 | $176,730 |
| New Hampshire | $104,190 | $155,860 | $213,310 |
| New Jersey | $131,570 | $169,760 | $224,550 |
| New Mexico | $109,480 | $141,230 | $178,830 |
| New York | $139,640 | $183,360 | $278,010 |
| North Carolina | $101,060 | $135,660 | $185,140 |
| North Dakota | $101,600 | $143,540 | $233,160 |
| Ohio | $87,370 | $127,880 | $177,930 |
| Oklahoma | $105,830 | $141,670 | $231,490 |
| Oregon | $120,110 | $174,630 | $229,730 |
| Pennsylvania | $103,740 | $142,160 | $209,530 |
| Rhode Island | $106,520 | $173,020 | $216,270 |
| South Carolina | $95,570 | $130,530 | $177,740 |
| South Dakota | $126,160 | $175,780 | $228,660 |
| Tennessee | $100,850 | $167,170 | $224,710 |
| Texas | $104,390 | $137,660 | $215,450 |
| Utah | $100,420 | $140,910 | $218,010 |
| Vermont | $104,450 | $142,050 | $226,460 |
| Virginia | $120,840 | $172,480 | $234,300 |
| Washington | $127,630 | $167,850 | $220,610 |
| West Virginia | $84,660 | $129,510 | $198,330 |
| Wisconsin | $124,960 | $162,320 | $198,850 |
| Wyoming | $127,960 | $137,810 | $174,170 |
Source: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/postsecondary-education-administrators.htm
Showing 1 – 10 of 52 entries | Data does not reflect school-specific information.
10 Useful Resources for Students
These resources support professional growth for current and aspiring school leaders:
- Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD): A premier professional organization for educators. ASCD offers articles, webinars, and the Educational Leadership magazine covering the latest research and strategies in K-12 leadership, curriculum, and instruction.
- NAESP — National Association of Elementary School Principals: NAESP provides research-based resources and community for K-8 school leaders.
- NASSP — National Association of Secondary School Principals: Focused on middle and high school leaders, NASSP publishes valuable content like the Principal Leadership magazine and offers toolkits on topics such as school scheduling, assessment, and student well-being.
- AASA — The School Superintendents Association: AASA is geared toward district-level leaders (superintendents, central office, etc.), but it’s very relevant for aspiring educational leaders too. Their resources (newsletters, white papers, conference sessions) delve into district policy, finance, and systemic leadership — the kind of big-picture thinking that can set you apart.
- Edutopia — Educational Leadership: Funded by the George Lucas Educational Foundation, Edutopia has a fantastic “School Leadership” section featuring short articles and videos by and for educators. Topics range from teacher mentorship and project-based learning implementation to equity and social-emotional learning at the school-wide level.
- Education Week — Leadership: Education Week is a leading news outlet for American education. They often report on new research (like reports on principal training or burnout) and profile award-winning principals and superintendents.
- The Wallace Foundation: The Wallace Foundation has invested heavily in research on school leadership, and their Knowledge Center offers free reports and guides on how principals affect student learning, how to develop effective mentor programs, and ways to redesign principal preparation programs.
- Better Leaders Better Schools Podcast: A weekly podcast (and blog) hosted by veteran principal Daniel Bauer that features expert guests — successful principals, authors, or educational thought leaders — discussing strategies to lead schools effectively.
- Harvard Graduate School of Education: This is an online portal that translates education research into practical advice for educators. For someone pursuing an Ed Leadership MEd, Usable Knowledge offers bite-sized, research-backed articles on issues like family engagement, data use in schools, and teacher retention strategies.
- LinkedIn — “Educational Leadership” Professional Group: LinkedIn hosts numerous groups, and Educational Leadership (and similar groups like School Administrators) are forums where thousands of principals, assistant principals, and aspiring leaders share ideas and articles.
Best Online MEd in Educational Leadership Rankings
Liberty University
Best for: advancement-focused students
Union University
Best for: advancement-focused students
Martin Luther College
Best for: advancement-focused students
Southeastern Oklahoma State University
Best for: advancement-focused students
Dickinson State University
Best for: advancement-focused students
Delta State University
Best for: advancement-focused students
Fort Hays State University
Best for: advancement-focused students
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus
Best for: advancement-focused students
Cumberland University
Best for: advancement-focused students
Hannibal-LaGrange University
Best for: advancement-focused students
