The Best Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs

Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern University's online master's in educational leadership program comes with full faculty support through a student's time in the school. Online students can take part in discussion boards, ask questions in chat, receive support through email and get the necessary help when they need it to succeed in the virtual classroom.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Education
Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Accrediting Body: GaPSC, NCATE

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 36 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length:2 years
Program start dates: Fall

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: April 30
GPA: 2.75
Work Experience: Level-four teaching certificate

University of Wyoming

Consistently ranked by publications as one of the best value colleges, the University of Wyoming's Master of Arts in Educational Leadership program has one of the lowest tuition rates for residents and non-residents at $261 per credit hour and $780 per credit hour, respectively. In addition to the relatively low tuition costs, the program has many opportunities to lower the cost of tuition even more including travel funding, graduate assistantships, and great scholarship programs for their students.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: Counseling, Leadership, Advocacy, and Design
Program Name: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
Accrediting Body: NCATE, ELCC

DeliveryFormat: Online

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 33 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program start dates: Spring 2018, Summer 2018, Fall 2018, Spring 2019, Summer 2019, Fall 2019, Spring 2020

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: February 1, September 1
GPA: 3.0
Work Experience: 2 years teaching experience and demonstrated potential for leadership at the school level.

University of Dayton

The University of Dayton's online master's in educational leadership program caters to working professionals who want to advance to leadership roles in private schools, including Catholic schools, in Ohio. This program covers everything from diversity to community relations and emphasizes the importance of using ethical principles to lead in the school system.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Education and Health Sciences
Program Name: Master of Science in Educational Leadership
Available Concentrations: Catholic School Leadership
Accrediting Body: NCATE

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
Credit Requirements: 30 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2 years
Program start dates: January 7, 2019

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: November 16, 2018
GPA: 2.75

University of Florida

The University of Florida's online master's in educational leadership program prepares students for roles as directors in community colleges and major universities. The coursework includes topics in school administration, principalship and more, giving graduates the skills to lead at the highest level of education.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Education
Program Name: M.Ed. in Educational Leadership
Accrediting Body: National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education

DeliveryFormat: Online

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 36 credits
Field Education Requirements: 150 hours of field experience in a school or educational setting

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: Two years
Program start dates: Summer, Fall, Spring

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Summer: February 15; Fall: May 15; Spring: October 15
Work Experience: Resume required with application

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Students who complete the master's in educational leadership program from the University of Michigan can enhance their degree with professional certification. Combined with the degree, the Leading Educational Innovation and Improvement certificate helps students land senior positions as principals, administrators and directors in secondary and post-secondary schools.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Education
Program Name: Master of Arts in Educational Studies
Available Concentrations: Building-level Administrator Certification
Accrediting Body: Higher Learning Commission

DeliveryFormat: Online, On-Campus
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 30 credits

Program LengthProgram Length: 1 - 2 years

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling

Lehigh University

Lehigh University offers an online master's in educational leadership program for students who want to pursue careers as principals and administrators at the next level. The program combines online learning with on-campus sessions to give students the flexibility to complete the coursework at home but also to get hands-on education in a real classroom.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Education
Program Name: M.Ed. In Educational Leadership
Available Concentrations: Principal Certification
Accrediting Body: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools

DeliveryFormat: Hybrid

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 30 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Part time, Full time
Program Length: 2 - 6 years
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer

Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0

University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida's online master's in educational leadership program prepares students for careers in education that don't require a certificate, such as university staff administrators or headmasters of private schools. This degree also allows graduates to pursue careers working in museum administration and more.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Education and Human Performance, School of Teaching, Learning and Leadership
Program Name: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
Accrediting Body: National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education

DeliveryFormat: Online

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 30 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: January 15; July 15, Spring: December 1; Summer: April 15

George Washington University

George Washington University's online master's in educational leadership program is taught by professionals who have worked as principals, administrators, directors and other leadership positions in K-12 schools. This experience shines through as they guide students on completing the coursework and helping them to achieve senior-level positions in their own careers after graduation.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: Graduate School of Education and Human Development
Program Name: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Administration
Available Concentrations: National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education

DeliveryFormat: Online

Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's Degree
Credit Requirements: 30 credits
Field Education Requirements: 2 administrative internships

Program LengthProgram Length: 2 years
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer

Admission RequirementsWork Experience: Minimum of 1 year of teaching experience

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has an online master's in educational leadership program for working educators who want to advance to principal roles in high schools. The coursework includes the foundations of principalship and clinicals to provide hands-on experience.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Education
Program Name: M.Ed. in Teacher Leader Specialization
Accrediting Body: NCACS

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 36 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, Part-time

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 3.0
Work Experience: Two years of full-time experience as an educator

Boston University

Boston University's online master's in educational leadership has a concentration in higher education administration and emphasizes policy studies. This intensive program gives graduates the skills to pursue careers as principals and administrators in which they will manage the faculty, oversee the daily operations, provide teachers with training on the use of educational materials in the classroom and other important duties.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: Higher Education Administration (Online)
Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
Available Concentrations: Higher Education Administration
Accrediting Body: NEASC

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 36 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 1-2 years
Program start dates: Fall: September; Spring: January; Summer: May.

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: September 11, 2018

Florida State University

Florida State University's online master's in educational leadership program is designed for working educators who have at least two years of full-time experience in K-12 schools. Students have the option to take two classes each semester, giving them a way to earn their degree in only two or three semesters.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Education
Program Name: Master of Science in Educational Leadership/Administration
Accrediting Body: NCATE, SACS

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 33 credits
Field Education Requirements: Required as part of capstone course

Program LengthProgram Length: Two courses per semester
Program start dates: Fall, Spring

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: June 1; Spring: October 1
GPA: 3.0
Work Experience: Minimum of two years of full-time faculty experience in K-12 schools

University of Louisiana Monroe

Current educators who want to advance to the next level and become district administrators should consider the online master's in educational leadership program at the University of Louisiana Monroe. The coursework includes topics in administrative leadership and prepares students for supervisorial careers after college.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Education
Program Name: Master of Education, Educational Leadership Online
Accrediting Body: SACS/CC

DeliveryFormat: Online

Program requirementsPrerequisites: Current teaching certification
Credit Requirements: 36 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 15 months
Program start dates: Fall 1, Fall 2, Spring 1, Spring 2, Summer

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 3.0
Work Experience: Three years teaching experience

University of Texas at Arlington

The University of Texas at Arlington's online master's in educational leadership program offers an optional emphasis in higher education to prepare graduates for roles as senior administrative officers in colleges. In addition to the curriculum, students must complete a capstone practicum and participate in an internship, which provides experience that will help them succeed as provosts at the next level.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Education
Program Name: Master of Education in Leadership & Policy Studies
Available Concentrations: Higher Education Administration and Principal Certificate
Accrediting Body: NCATE

DeliveryFormat: Online, Hybrid, On- campus
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 30 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, parti-time
Program Length: 16 months
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 3.0
Work Experience: Teaching certificate and two years of teaching experience

University of West Florida

The University of West Florida's online master's in educational leadership program provides an extensive curriculum for students that includes topics in critical thinking, project management, diversity and more. Graduates are prepared for career advancement and have the skills to assume roles as deans, district supervisors, principals and other senior positions within their area's school system.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Education and Professional Studies
Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership Certification
Accrediting Body: NCATE

DeliveryFormat: Online

Program requirementsPrerequisites: Hold a valid professional teaching certification
Credit Requirements: 33 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: June 1; Spring: October 1; Summer: March 1
GPA: 3.0
Work Experience: Minimum of 3 years of teaching experience

University of Denver

Distance learners within the Denver area benefit from this online master's in educational leadership program. It's delivered in a hybrid format, so students will have to meet periodically for on-campus sessions outside of their regular online coursework.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: Morgridge College of Education
Program Name: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

DeliveryFormat: In-person, Online
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 45 credits
Field Education Requirements: The ELPS MA program begins with acceptance into one of our principal licensure cohort models of the Ritchie Program for School Leaders: Executive Leadership for Successful Schools (Ritchie ELSS).

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time
Program Length: Seven quarters - 1.75 years
Program start dates: Summer: Early June

Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.5

University of St. Thomas - Texas

The University of St. Thomas believes in giving focused attention to students as they work to earn their online master's in educational leadership degree. The classes are small and have less than 20 students, giving them more one-on-one time with professors for better support throughout the program.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Education and Human Services
Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Accrediting Body: Council of Educator Preparation Programs (CAEP)

DeliveryFormat: Online, Hybrid
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous

Program requirementsPrerequisites: Baccalaureate or advanced degree
Credit Requirements: 36 credits
Field Education Requirements: A two semester practicum as well as two research seminars

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2 years
Program start dates: Spring, Summer, Fall

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Spring: December 15; Summer: April 15; Fall: July 15
GPA: 2.75
Work Experience: Minimum of two years of field experience

University of San Diego

The University of San Diego offers an online master's in education a school leadership specialization. The School Leadership concentration features a five-course specialization sequence that addresses essential areas of school leadership including data driven decision-making, instructional leadership, professional learning communities, meaningful engagement with families and communities, and ethical and professional norms. All courses are grounded in a social justice foundation and are designed to prepare school leaders who advance equity and excellence in their schools and communities.
Program Name: Master of Education: School Leadership
Accrediting Body: NCATE, WASC

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 30 credits

Program LengthProgram Length: 20 months
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 2.75

Gonzaga University

Gonzaga University provides working educators with an online master's in educational leadership program to help them advance their careers and is developed for K12 educators in public, private, and Catholic schools. This accelerated program gives students a way to earn their degree in 1 year, and they can choose between online and hybrid program options to suit their needs and schedules.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Education
Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Accrediting Body: NCATE

DeliveryFormat: Online, Hybrid (required one-week summer intensive program)
Instruction Style: Asynchronous, Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 30 credits

Program LengthProgram Length: 1 years

Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0

Fordham University

Fordham University is a Catholic school and offers a degree in educational leadership through the Master of Science program. This program is designed for Catholic educators with coursework in spirituality of leadership, ethics in administration and more, giving them the skills to lead using faith-based principles within their school.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: Graduate School of Edecation
Program Name: Master of Science in Education in Catholic Educational Leadership
Accrediting Body: NCATE

DeliveryFormat: Online, Hybrid
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 30 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, Part-time
Program Length: 2 years

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: June 30; Spring: November 15; Summer: April 15
GPA: 3.0

Nova Southeastern University

Distance learners in the master's in educational leadership program at Nova Southeastern University receive one of the best internship experiences. Students must complete a 300-hour internship to graduate, giving them valuable hands-on experience to help them succeed at the next level.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: Fischler College of Education
Program Name: Master of Science in Education with specialization in Educational Leadership
Accrediting Body: National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 36 credit
Field Education Requirements: Administrative internship

Program LengthProgram Options: Part time, Full time
Program start dates: Fall; Winter; Summer

Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.5

Colorado State University-Global Campus

Launched in 2007, CSU-Global is the first statutorily-defined, non-profit, online state university in the U.S. Because it's a completely online school, it understands what it takes for students to succeed in a virtual classroom and provides them with all the resources, tools, and materials needed to earn their master's in educational leadership degree; and to lead an educational institution after graduation.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: Master of Science in Teaching and Learning
Program Name: Education Leadership
Accrediting Body: NCACS, THLC

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 39 credits

Program LengthProgram Length: 2 years with options for acceleration and extension

Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0

Brandman University

Brandman University designed its online master's in educational leadership program with busy students in mind. The coursework is delivered in an asynchronous format, giving students the flexibility to complete their lessons and projects on their own schedule.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Education
Program Name: MA in Education, Educational Leadership
Available Concentrations: NCATE

DeliveryFormat: Online, Hybrid
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 30 credits

Program LengthProgram start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 2.5

University of Colorado Denver

UC Denver delivers a compelling master's in educational leadership program, producing successful administrators who work in K-12 and postsecondary schools. The alumni continue to interact with UC Denver and help to develop the program in addition to providing networking opportunities for current students.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Education & Human Development
Program Name: Master of Arts in Administrative Leadership and Policy Studies
Available Concentrations: Higher Education Leadership
Accrediting Body: Higher Learning Commission

DeliveryFormat: Online, Hybrid
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 30 credits

Program LengthProgram Length: 2 years or less

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Summer: April 1; Fall: June 1; Spring: December 1
GPA: 3
Work Experience: Teaching License

Western Governors University

Western Governors University provides a flexible master's in educational leadership program for online students who live in and out of the state. Students can work in a self-paced environment and progress at different speeds depending on their knowledge of the coursework and their time to dedicate to the program.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: WGU Teachers College
Program Name: Master of Science in Educational Leadership
Available Concentrations: School Law, Systems Management, Cultural Competency and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), Data Literacy and Evidence-based Practices, Educational Inquiry, Leadership Foundations and Ethics, Leadership in Curriculum and Instruction, Leading Inclusive Schools, People and Talent, and School Financial Leadership.
Accrediting Body: National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education

DeliveryFormat: Entirely online, except for the supervised practicum
Instruction Style: Asynchronous, except for supervised practicum which is face-to-face

Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree, evidence of teaching license and 3 years of teaching experience
Credit Requirements: 40 credits

Program LengthProgram Length: 1 - 2 years
Program start dates: First of the month for every month after April 1, 2019

California Lutheran University

California Lutheran University provides an online master's in educational leadership program for working educators who want to advance in their careers and assume roles as directors, deans, principals and other senior-level positions. Because it requires students to attend many of the classes on campus, this program is best for online students who also live near the school's various satellite campuses in the state.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: Graduate School of Education
Program Name: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
Accrediting Body: NCATE

DeliveryFormat: Online, Hybrid
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 30 credits
Field Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree and any graduate work

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time
Program Length: 12 months
Program start dates: Fall 2018; Summer 2019

Montclair State University

Montclair State University provides help for students who want to learn more about online learning when it comes to pursuing their master's in educational leadership degree online. Instead of pushing students to sign up and take the program, it offers a guide to help students determine whether online education is right for them.

Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
Accrediting Body: NCATE

DeliveryFormat: Online, Hybrid
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 36 credits

Program LengthProgram Length: 14 months - 2 years

Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0

University of St. Francis

Students who enroll in the online master's in educational leadership program at the University of St. Francis benefit from a cohort model. Every student who signs up and enters the program at the same time will progress through the curriculum together, which not only helps to strengthen relationships but also to provide invaluable networking opportunities.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Education
Program Name: Master of Science (M.S.) in Education - Educational Leadership
Available Concentrations: Principal preparation and teacher leader
Accrediting Body: National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 30 - 33 credits
Field Education Requirements: Principal preparation: year-long internship; teacher leader: one-semester practicum

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time
Program Length: Principal preparation: six semesters; teacher leader: five semesters
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 2.75
Work Experience: 2-3 years of full-time teaching or school support personnel experience

University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

The University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley prepares graduates to work as principals and administrators in Texas schools that have numerous bilingual students and faculty members. The coursework provides topics in school community relations and includes field experience in which students are taught how to teach bilingual learners such as migrants and special-needs students.

Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or a recognized international equivalent in a similar or related field
Credit Requirements: 30 credits
Field Education Requirements: Undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0. If applicant does not meet minimum undergraduate GPA criterion, GRE general test with minimum scores of 150 Verbal, 141 Quantitative, and 4.0 Analytical are required for conditional admission. GRE test scores are valid for 5 years.

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 10 months
Program start dates: October 17, 2018

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: October 17, 2018
GPA: 3.0
Work Experience: Minimum of two years of teaching experience

Dallas Baptist University

Dallas Baptist University understands that not every student can enroll in the online master's in educational leadership program at the same time. Therefore, it offers rolling admission and allows students to enroll in the program when it's most convenient for them.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Education
Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Available Concentrations: Charter School Administrator, Certification, Non-certification
Accrediting Body: SACSCC

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 30 credits
Field Education Requirements: Required internship for certification tracks.

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 3.0
Work Experience: Two years of credible teaching experience

University of Alabama

Students who earn their master's in educational leadership degree at the University of Alabama also receive their Alabama Class A Certificate upon completing the program. However, students must have at least three years of K-12 teaching experience to be qualified for enrollment.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Continuing Studies
Program Name: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
Accrediting Body: NCATE

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 30-33 credits

Program LengthProgram Length: 1-2 years

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Summer: April 1; Fall July 1; Summer: November 1
GPA: 3.0
Work Experience: Three years P-12 teaching experience

University of Northern Iowa

The online master's in educational leadership program at the University of Northern Iowa prepares graduates to work as supervisors in PK-12 special education schools. The curriculum includes courses in effective school leadership and emphasizes responsible and ethical guidance in managing schools that cater to those with special needs.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: Department of Educational Leadership and Postsecondary Education
Program Name: Master of Arts in Education
Available Concentrations: Principalship
Accrediting Body: Higher Learning Commission

DeliveryFormat: Online, Hybrid
Instruction Style: Synchronous

Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree
Credit Requirements: 37 credits
Field Education Requirements: Required internship

Program LengthProgram Length: 2 years
Program start dates: Fall

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: April 15, 2019
GPA: 3.0

George Mason University

George Mason University provides an interactive master's in educational leadership program for online students. This interactive program allows students to engage with their peers for discussion and teamwork opportunities, as well as to communicate with professors for guidance and support throughout the program.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Education and Human Development
Program Name: M.Ed. in Education Leadership
Accrediting Body: National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 30 credits

Program LengthProgram Length: 2 years
Program start dates: Fall, Spring

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall:April 1; Spring: November 1
GPA: 3.0
Work Experience: 2 years of documented, successful, full-time teaching in an accredited school and a valid teaching license

Liberty University

Liberty University makes enrolling in the online master's in educational leadership program easier for working professionals. With no standardized tests required, such as GRE scores, students only need to have a minimum 3.0 GPA to be considered for enrollment.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Education
Program Name: Master of Education in Teaching and Learning - Leadership
Accrediting Body: NCATE

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 36 credits
Field Education Requirements: Optional three credit hour practicum

Program LengthProgram Length: 1.5 years
Program start dates: Jan 14, 2019

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Approximately two weeks before start of term
GPA: 3.0

Indiana University - Bloomington

Students who have completed a master's program at an accredited university can have as many as nine credits transferred to the online master's in educational leadership program at Indiana University. Having these many credits transferred helps students to focus on only the courses that they need to earn their degree sooner.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Education
Program Name: MSEd in Educational Leadership
Accrediting Body: NCATE

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 36 credits

Program LengthProgram Length: 2 years

Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.3
Work Experience: 2 years of teaching experience

University of Arkansas

The University of Arkansas offers an online master's in educational leadership program for working educators who want to advance in their careers as deans of students or faculty. The curriculum covers foundational and specialized courses in instructional leadership, school administration and more, including an internship for a whole semester.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Education and Health Professions
Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Accrediting Body: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

DeliveryFormat: Online

Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's Degree
Credit Requirements: 33 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2 years
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 3.0

Touro University California

Touro University California prepares graduates for leadership careers in the modern area thanks to a curriculum that not only addresses innovation but also how to lead as principals, directors and administrators in the digital era. Students learn in an online environment and develop the skills to take a modern approach to leading a school's faculty and its student body.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: Graduate School of Education
Program Name: Educational Leadership Master of Education Degree

DeliveryFormat: Online, On-Campus
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous

Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree (BA or BS) from a regionally accredited university or college and copies of transcripts from all institutions where post-baccalaureate coursework was completed or attempted.
Credit Requirements: 30 credits

Program LengthProgram Length: 1 year
Program start dates: Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Summer 2019

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Spring:November 1, 2018
GPA: 3.0

Azusa Pacific University

The online master's in educational leadership program at Azusa Pacific University prepares graduates for roles as teacher leaders within their school system. Students learn courses in community leadership, school improvement and more, giving them the skills to handle administrative duties outside of the classroom, such as managing learning and teaching responsibilities.

Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
Available Concentrations: CTC, NCATE, WSCUC

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsPrerequisites: Valid clear prerequisite teaching or services credential or designated subject credential
Credit Requirements: 33 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 1-2 years

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Spring 2019: November 12, 2018; Summer 2019: April 1, 2019
GPA: 3.0
Work Experience: California teaching credential

Mississippi State University

Mississippi State University's online master's in educational leadership program emphasizes workforce preparation and gives graduates the skills to manage, implement and lead effective programs at community colleges and other schools. The coursework includes subjects in workforce preparation, such as how to develop a workforce for a more productive school system.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: Department of Educational Leadership
Program Name: Master of Science in Workforce Education Leadership
Accrediting Body: SACS

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 30 credits

Program LengthProgram Length: 1 - 2 years

Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.75

Saint Joseph's University

Students who enroll in the online master's in educational leadership program at Saint Joseph's University have two concentration tracks to choose from: a public or private school track and a Catholic school track. Both tracks include topics in budget preparation, student development and resource management, giving graduates the skills to lead as supervisors and principals in grades K-12.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: Master of Science in Education
Program Name: Educational Leadership
Accrediting Body: MSCHE

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 36 credits

Program LengthProgram Length: 1-2 years

Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0
Work Experience: Teacher certification

Concordia University - Nebraska

Concordia University-Nebraska's online master's in educational leadership program gives teachers the skills for career advancement, empowering them to assume roles as principals and administrators. The synchronous courses give students the structure to adhere to a specific class schedule for graduating within two years of enrollment.

Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction
Available Concentrations: Instructional Technology Leadership
Accrediting Body: HLC

DeliveryFormat: Online, Hybrid
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 36 credits

Program LengthProgram Length: 1 - 2 years

Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0
Work Experience: Teaching Certificate

Concordia University - Chicago

Concordia University-Chicago offers a 24-month program for part-time distance learners who can't commit to the 12-month program option. Part-time students can finish the entire course online but must also complete a semester's worth of supervised internship hours at a local K-12 school or college.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Education
Program Name: Master of Arts in Leadership, Higher Education specialization
Accrediting Body: HLC

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 33 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time
Program Length: 12 - 24 months
Program start dates: Fall

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: August 15
GPA: 3.0

University of South Florida - Sarasota-Manatee

The University of South Florida-Sarasota-Manatee offers distance learners an online master's in educational leadership program with three leadership concentrations: the public school leadership track, the charter school leadership track and the curriculum leadership track. These three tracks allow educators to focus on a specific area of interest for career advancement within their school system.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
Program Name: Master of Education (MEd) in Educational Leadership
Available Concentrations: K-12 Public School Leadership, Curriculum Leadership, and Non-Public or Charter School Leadership

DeliveryFormat: Online, Hybrid
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous

Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and satisfying at least one: "B" average or better in all work attempted while registered as an undergraduate student working for a degree
Credit Requirements: 36-39 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 1-2 years
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: June 1; Spring: October 15; Summer: March 1
GPA: 3.0
Work Experience: Teaching certificate and two years of teaching experience

Penn State World Campus

Pennsylvania State University has offered distance education to students since 1998 and has an online master's in educational leadership program to give students the freedom to work at their own pace anywhere there's an internet connection. The university's established online program makes it the No. 1 choice for students who want to receive a quality education from a reputable school with a focus on virtual learning.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Education
Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Accrediting Body: NCATE

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 30 credits

Program LengthProgram Length: 1-2 years

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: July 1; Spring: November 1; Summer: March 15
GPA: 3.0

Regis University

Regis University's online master's in educational leadership program in Denver attracts students who live in and outside of Colorado. In fact, more than 50 percent of the students in this program and other programs at Regis University live outside the state, making it a great option for nonresidents who want to earn their degree from a reputable university.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: Graduate Degrees
Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Accrediting Body: The Higher Learning Commission

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 33 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time
Program Length: 1-2 years
Program start dates: January, May, August

Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.75
Work Experience: Teaching certificate

University of North Texas

The University of Texas offers an online master's in educational leadership program that leads not only to a degree but also to Texas principal certification. Students learn a variety of topics such as school law, public relations and day-to-day operations to succeed as administrators and department heads after graduation.

Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Accrediting Body: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 30 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 1 year
Program start dates: January, March, June, August, October

Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0
Work Experience: PreK-12 work-related experience

Seton Hall University

A new semester starts every summer at Seton Hall University, making it the perfect time for teachers and other educators to enroll in the master's in educational leadership program. This online program focuses on management and school policy and prepares graduates for administrative careers after graduation.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Education and Human Services
Program Name: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership, Management and Policy
Accrediting Body: National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education

DeliveryFormat: Hybrid

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 39 credits
Field Education Requirements: Required Internships

Program LengthProgram Length: 2 years
Program start dates: Summer

Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0
Work Experience: Work experience in field related to educational administration

Concordia University - St. Paul

Concordia University-Saint Paul has an online master's in educational leadership program that's designed to help graduates advance to superintendent roles within their school system. This online program includes courses in supervisorial procedures and school policy to prepare graduates for successful superintendent careers after college.

Program OverviewProgram Name: MAEd in Educational Leadership
Accrediting Body: TLC

DeliveryFormat: Online, Hybrid
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous

Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from the regionally accredited institution
Credit Requirements: 30 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time
Program Length: 1 - 2 years

Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0

Texas A&M University-Commerce

Texas A&M University offers a master's in educational leadership program for distance learners who want to earn their degree online. The university delivers the coursework via the myLEO portal, which not only has all the assignments and discussion boards but also is available as a mobile app for checking on lectures and other coursework on the go.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: Departments of Educational Leadership
Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Administration
Accrediting Body: CACREP

DeliveryFormat: Online

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 21 credits

Program LengthProgram Length: 30 hours
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer

Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University's online master's in educational leadership program comes in a hybrid format and requires students to attend an in-person session every month. This program is best for full-time students who can take the maximum amount of credit hours per semester to earn their degree in about 15 months.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Education
Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Principal Professional Certification Preparation
Accrediting Body: NCATE

DeliveryFormat: Online, Blended
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 36 credits

Program LengthProgram Length: 1 - 2 years
Program start dates: Summer, Fall, Spring

Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University charges online students the same tuition whether they live in or out of the state. The program takes around 20 months to complete and costs about $306 per credit hour, making it one of the most affordable online master's in educational leadership programs in the nation.

Program OverviewDepartment Name: Graduate Programs
Program Name: MSEd in Educational Leadership
Available Concentrations: Elementary, Mmiddle, High School
Accrediting Body: CAEP, NCATE

DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous

Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 36 credits

Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program start dates: January 14, 2019

Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: December 13, 2018
GPA: 3.0
Work Experience: Teaching certificate and two years of teaching experience