As a teacher, you probably take a lot of heat from your non-educator friends for having summers off … but what they may not realize is that during the school year, work rarely ends when the last student steps onto the school bus.
If you’re interested in shifting into a leadership career track, finding the time and energy to pursue a graduate degree may seem like a daunting task. But here’s the good news: Advancements in online education have made getting an advanced degree more attainable than ever before.
How we evaluated schools
Our goal is to make it easier for you to figure out which program is the best fit for you.
Each school in our survey meets the following minimum requirements:
- Our goal is to make it easier for you to figure out which master's program is the best fit for your life and your career.
- Offers an accredited master’s in education specific to leadership or administration.
- Is regionally accredited, considered the gold standard in college accreditation.
The scores
Overall – a blend of the 4 category scores: Flexibility, Affordability, Program Strength, and Time to Complete.
- Flexibility – a measure of the scheduling and location flexibility a program offers.
- Affordability – a measure of program expense.
- Program strength – a measure of how well a program delivers online courses.
- Time to complete – a measure of the typical time to complete the program.
#1: American College of Education
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Indianapolis, IN
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Overall Score = 96
- Flexibility = 95
- Affordability = 100
- Program Strength = 100
- Time to Complete = 85
There’s quite a bit to like about the M.Ed. program at American College of Education. Within our four data sets, this school topped the list in two categories, coming in at #1 in program strength and #1 in affordability. It came in at #2 for flexibility and #14 for time to complete.
The aim of the program is to help you “think like a principal.” You can complete all coursework online, with the exception of an internship that is required for graduation.
The program is approved for principal licensure in Arizona, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, and Texas.
#2: Mississippi College
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Clinton, MS
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Overall Score = 90
- Flexibility = 87
- Affordability = 100
- Program Strength = 75
- Time to Complete = 85
Mississippi College ranked well in a number of categories, including #3 in affordability, #10 in flexibility, and #17 in time to complete. It comes in at #30 for program strength.
This program can be completed 100% online in as little as 12 months for total tuition of under $10,000 (according to their website, August 2019). Potential students should note that the school takes a faith-based and transcultural approach to this curriculum.
#3: Liberty University
Master of Education in Administration and Supervision
Lynchburg, VA
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Overall Score = 89
- Flexibility = 92
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 67
- Time to Complete = 100
Like Mississippi College above, Liberty’s curriculum is delivered with a Christian perspective, although students of all faiths are welcome. Their program ranks #6 for time to complete, #9 in flexibility, #15 in affordability, #49 in program strength.
You can complete this 100%-online program in under two years. The school’s website reports that most students finish in a year and a half.
#4: University of North Texas
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Denton, TX
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Overall Score = 88
- Flexibility = 87
- Affordability = 92
- Program Strength = 71
- Time to Complete = 100
University of North Texas ranked well overall, coming in at #5 in time to complete, #8 in affordability, #11 in flexibility.
You can choose from two educational leadership program tracks, earning either the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership or, if you already hold a master’s degree, the Texas Principal as Instructional Leader certificate. Both programs can be completed entirely online.
If you’re able to take two classes per term, you may be able to graduate in as little as 12 months.
#5: Regis University
Master of Education in Educational Leadership (Principal Licensure)
Denver, CO
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Overall Score = 88
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 86
- Time to Complete = 100
Regis University, a Jesuit institution, holds the #1 spot for time to complete. If you opt for the accelerated program, you can complete your principal certification in as little as 12 months. This program also scored extremely well for program strength, coming in at #14 out of the 69 schools included in our ranking.
However, there is one potential drawback for online learners: This program cannot be completed 100% online. Rather, this is a blended program that requires students to complete a certain amount of coursework on-campus in Denver.
#6: Lamar University
Master of Education in Educational Administration
Beaumont, TX
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Overall Score = 88
- Flexibility = 93
- Affordability = 100
- Program Strength = 52
- Time to Complete = 85
Believe it or not, you can get your degree from about $8,250 if you enroll at Lamar. It ranks at #2 in affordability, as well as #8 in flexibility.
This 100%-online degree program is designed to help you develop leadership skills to create diverse, inclusive learning communities of continuous improvement.
#7: Southeastern Oklahoma State University
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Durant, OK
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Overall Score = 88
- Flexibility = 87
- Affordability = 100
- Program Strength = 50
- Time to Complete = 100
Like Lamar above, Southeastern Oklahoma State allows you to earn your degree for around $8,000. In our rankings, in came in at #4 in affordability, #12 in time to complete, and #12 in flexibility.
This online program is intended to prepare educators with or without a teaching license for leadership and administrative roles in education.
#8: Fitchburg State University
Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Management
Fitchburg, MA
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Overall Score = 88
- Flexibility = 87
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 73
- Time to Complete = 100
This school holds impressive ranks in several of our rating categories. Fitchburg takes the #3 spot in terms of time to complete, #13 in terms of flexibility, and #16 in terms of affordability.
Fitchburg’s program is 100% online, and it prepares students for a number of professional paths, both within the education arena and without.
#9: University of Texas - Arlington
Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
Arlington, TX
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Overall Score = 88
- Flexibility = 87
- Affordability = 100
- Program Strength = 62
- Time to Complete = 85
UT Arlington ranks #5 in affordability and #14 in flexibility. This program costs about $8,200 and can be completed in about 16 months.
Of note: This program was created with input from area school districts to ensure that graduates are prepared to meet the real-world challenges and needs of educational facilities.
#10: University of Arkansas
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Fayetteville, AR
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Overall Score = 87
- Flexibility = 95
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 79
- Time to Complete = 70
UA ranked #3 in flexibility, #12 in affordability, #26 in program strength.
The program can be completed 100% online, excluding the internship requirement. You can complete your course of studies in about two years.
#11: University of Illinois
Master of Education in Education Policy, Organization & Leadership
Champaign, IL
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Overall Score = 87
- Flexibility = 87
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 98
- Time to Complete = 70
University of Illinois presents an excellent value for working educators, ranking #6 in program strength, #15 in flexibility, #17 in affordability, and #31 in time to complete.
The program consists of online video synchronous sessions that typically meet once a week in late afternoon or evening (based on the Central time zone).
#12: Colorado State University Global
Master of Science in Teaching and Learning, Education Leadership Concentration
Greenwood Village, CO
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Overall Score = 87
- Flexibility = 96
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 75
- Time to Complete = 70
This program took the top spot for flexibility and ranked #11 in affordability.
CSU Global’s program allows you to participate in the Principal Licensure Concentration or follow another area of interest within education leadership.
#13: Eastern Washington University
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Cheney, WA
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Overall Score = 87
- Flexibility = 87
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 64
- Time to Complete = 100
This program came in #8 in time to complete, #16 in flexibility, #18 in affordability in our rankings.
Of note: Eastern Washington’s program does not offer a principal certificate. Rather, it’s designed to help you develop leadership skills needed to be a department head, mentor, or curriculum coach.
#14: Northern Arizona University
Master of Education in Educational Leadership—Community College/Higher Education
Flagstaff, AZ
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Overall Score = 86
- Flexibility = 95
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 74
- Time to Complete = 70
This unique program can help you gain skills towards taking a leadership position in a community college, university, business, or public or private organization.
#15: Louisiana State University
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Baton Rouge, LA
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Overall Score = 85
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 82
- Time to Complete = 86
Designed for teachers ready to take their skills to the next level, LSU’s online Master of Education in Educational Leadership helps prepare educators to become more effective leaders both inside and outside of the classroom.
#16: Western Governors University
Master of Science in Educational Leadership
Multiple Locations
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Overall Score = 85
- Flexibility = 95
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 60
- Time to Complete = 75
This online program is geared toward people looking to earn a principal certification. It’s designed to enhance expertise in governance, finance, law, leadership, and strategic planning.
Most graduates complete the program within 12-22 months.
#17: University of St. Thomas
Master of Education
Houston, TX
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Overall Score = 85
- Flexibility = 86
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 87
- Time to Complete = 70
Our #17 pick is a solid choice if you’re looking to complete your program fully or partially online. University of St. Thomas in Houston came in at #13 for program strength, #23 in flexibility, #24 in affordability.
#18: University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Edinburg, TX
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Overall Score = 85
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 64
- Time to Complete = 100
UT Rio Grande Valley took the #7 spot in our rankings in terms of in time to complete. The school, which specializes in accelerated master’s degrees, claims that you can finish this program in as little as 10 months, broken down into seven-week modules.
One unique aspect of this program is that it has a culturally responsive focus, with a particular emphasis on serving diverse student populations.
#19: St. Thomas University
Master of Science in Educational Leadership
Miami Gardens, FL
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Overall Score = 85
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 64
- Time to Complete = 100
This program came in at #9 in our time-to-complete rankings. It’s possible to finish your degree in about a year, with a total price tag in the ballpark of $15,000.
Whether you’re a teacher or are looking to enter the education field for the first time, this fully online program is worth a look.
#20: Barry University
Master of Science in Educational Leadership
Miami Shores, FL
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Overall Score = 85
- Flexibility = 87
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 50
- Time to Complete = 100
Barry University ranked in the top 20 in three of our ranking categories: #11 in time to complete, #17 in flexibility, and #19 in affordability.
This degree can be completed online, with the exception of the practicum, which is required for some students. If you opt for the accelerated program, you can graduate in about 12 months.
#21: University of Louisiana - Monroe
Master of Education, Education Leadership
Monroe, LA
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Overall Score = 83
- Flexibility = 87
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 58
- Time to Complete = 85
UL Monroe ranked #18 in flexibility, #20 in affordability, and #24 in time to complete.
This program is taught by the same instructors who teach the on-campus program, but it can be completely fully online. You can graduate in as little as 15 months with tuition around $11,000.
#22: University of Iowa
Master in Education Leadership with Principal Licensure
Iowa City, IA
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Overall Score = 83
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 84
- Time to Complete = 70
This program made our top 20 in terms of program strength, ranking at #19 out of 69 programs.
This entire program is delivered online, with the exception of some electives that may require you to travel to campus. If you enroll, you’ll need to participate in live classes online at least once a week via a two-way video and audio hookup.
#23: University of Massachusetts
Master of Education in Educational Administration
Shrewsbury, MA
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Overall Score = 83
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 84
- Time to Complete = 70
UMass holds the #20 spot in our program-strength ranking. It also scored around the median for all other categories, making this an all-around solid choice.
If you’re interested in applying, you should already have a teaching license in your state or have K-12 teaching experience in a private school setting. You’ll need to complete a practicum as a requirement of graduation.
#24: Lehigh University
Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Principal Certification
Bethlehem, PA
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Overall Score = 83
- Flexibility = 75
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 94
- Time to Complete = 75
This unique program, coming in at #10 in our program-strength rankings, is built specifically for students outside of the U.S.
If you enroll, expect to spend two summer sessions in residence at Lehigh, in addition to completing online coursework during at least one fall and one spring semester.
#25: Gonzaga University
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Spokane, WA
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Overall Score = 83
- Flexibility = 68
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 99
- Time to Complete = 85
Gonzaga’s program ranked an impressive #3 in program strength and #15 in time to complete.
One of the most unique aspects of this program is that if you enroll, your program will use your local district as a context for your studies. You can complete your studies in about four semesters.
#26: Saint Leo University
Master’s in Educational Leadership
Saint Leo, FL
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Overall Score = 83
- Flexibility = 87
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 68
- Time to Complete = 70
Ranking at #19 in flexibility and #21 in affordability, Saint Leo University seems to be delivering on its goal to create a program that helps professionals maintain work/life balance while earning an advanced degree.
You should have a valid teaching license before applying for this program. While most coursework can be completed online, there is a requirement for a supervised practicum.
#27: Arkansas State University
Master of Science in Education in Educational Leadership
Jonesboro, AR
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Overall Score = 83
- Flexibility = 87
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 68
- Time to Complete = 70
ASU broke the top 25 in two of our categories: #20 in flexibility and #22 in affordability.
Graduate in as little as 20 months for a total tuition price tag of around $11,400. One thing to love about this program: no special equipment needed. Courses are accessible 24/7 via computer, tablet, or even phone.
#28: Arkansas Tech University
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Russellville, AR
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Overall Score = 83
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 92
- Program Strength = 60
- Time to Complete = 85
This program came in at #7 in our affordability rankings. The certification is designed to prepare candidates for licensure as a principal or assistant principal at the building level, based on current requirements within Arkansas.
#29: University of Texas of the Permian Basin
Online Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
Odessa, TX
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Overall Score = 82
- Flexibility = 87
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 60
- Time to Complete = 76
This program cracked the top 30 in three of our rankings, coming in at #21 in flexibility, #23 in affordability, and #26 in time to complete.
Every course is 100% online. You can finish your degree in about a year, for a price tag of just under $12,000. Another major selling point: Online courses are taught by the same instructors who lead the on-campus classes.
#30: Columbia International University
Master of Education in Educational Administration
Columbia, SC
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Overall Score = 82
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 76
- Time to Complete = 70
This fully-online Christian-based program ranked near the median range for program strength, flexibility, and affordability. Upon graduation, students are prepared to assume leadership roles in Christian day, missionary, international, or national cross-cultural schools.
If you enroll, you should be able to complete your degree between two and four years.
#31: University of New England
Master of Education
Portland, ME
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Overall Score = 82
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 75
- Time to Complete = 70
This program confers a Master’s of Education with an optional focus area of educational leadership. It ranked near the median range for program strength, flexibility, and affordability, making it a choice that’s worth your consideration.
At UNE, you can complete your studies online according to your own schedule. Classes are asynchronous, meaning that you can access the course material at any time of the day or night. UNE provides a technical orientation to help ensure that all students are able to comfortably navigate the online learning platform.
#32: Northcentral University
Master of Education
San Diego, CA
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Overall Score = 82
- Flexibility = 95
- Affordability = 70
- Program Strength = 75
- Time to Complete = 85
Northcentral came in at #6 in flexibility and #18 in time to complete. This program confers a Master’s of Education with a specialization area of instructional leadership. If you opt for the accelerated track, you can graduate in about 12 months.
There are a few unique aspects to this program that are worth your attention:
- Classes start weekly, so you don’t have to wait for a specific date to start.
- Instruction is one-to-one. No cohort. No classmates.
- All teaching staff have credentials at the doctoral level.
#33: Stephen F Austin State University
Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Principal Certification
Nacogdoches, TX
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Overall Score = 82
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 100
- Program Strength = 64
- Time to Complete = 56
This totally online program came in at #6 for affordability. Texas students may qualify for financial aid that can create a significant reduction in tuition costs.
#34: Gwynedd Mercy University
Master of Science in Educational Administration
Gwynedd Valley, PA
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Overall Score = 81
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 69
- Time to Complete = 70
This program ranked near the median for affordability and flexibility. It is geared toward students who intend to earn their principal certification in Pennsylvania.
Classes are taken one at a time during seven-week sessions, but it’s important to note that an in-person practicum is a requirement of graduation. Completion time is generally around 20 months.
#35: Immaculata University
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
Malvern, PA
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Overall Score = 81
- Flexibility = 86
- Affordability = 70
- Program Strength = 72
- Time to Complete = 100
Immaculata ranked #4 in time to complete. The program runs on a seven-week schedule, which means that if you start in the fall it’s possible to complete the entire program within one year.
Coursework may be done entirely online, in a “hybrid” fashion that incorporates a mix of in-person and online instruction, or on-campus. On-campus classes for this program are primarily offered in the late afternoon or in the evening to accommodate the working professional. The main campus is located in Malvern, PA, but classes for this program are also offered at several off-campus locations within the state, including Danville, Pottstown, and Lititz.
#36: Minnesota State University - Moorhead
Master of Science and Specialist in Educational Leadership
Moorhead, MN
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Overall Score = 80
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 65
- Time to Complete = 70
MSU’s program confers two degrees at once, allowing you to earn both a master’s degree and a specialist degree. It is offered 100% online in an asynchronous format, allowing you to complete coursework on your own schedule and at your own pace.
The program ranks near the median in both affordability and flexibility, which is in alignment with the school’s goal to serve early to mid-career professionals who are working full-time.
Of note: The school claims 100% job placement for graduates of this program within the Class of 2016.
#37: Grand Canyon University
Master’s of Education in Educational Administration
Phoenix, AZ
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Overall Score = 80
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 63
- Time to Complete = 70
The program ranks near the median in both affordability and flexibility. You can work entirely online or attend evening classes at the school’s main campus in Phoenix.
While GCU has Baptist roots and continues a tradition of Christian-based education, it is an interdenominational university.
#38: Indiana University - Bloomington
Master of Science in Educational Leadership
Bloomington, IN
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Overall Score = 80
- Flexibility = 68
- Affordability = 91
- Program Strength = 91
- Time to Complete = 70
Indiana University Bloomington came in at #9 in our affordability rankings. The program can be completed fully online, with 24/7 access to course materials and tech support.
Of note: Online courses are taught by the same faculty that teach the on-campus program.
An Indiana principal's license is embedded in the coursework for this program. In order to qualify for the principal's license, you must have taught as a licensed teacher or worked as a licensed counselor for two years.
#39: Old Dominion University
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Norfolk, VA
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Overall Score = 80
- Flexibility = 75
- Affordability = 91
- Program Strength = 73
- Time to Complete = 70
Old Dominion ranked #10 in terms of affordability. In this program, you’ll participate in live, regularly scheduled online class meetings and complete coursework on your own. The program requires internships as a condition for graduation.
#40: Sam Houston State University
Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration
Huntsville, TX
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Overall Score = 79
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 71
- Time to Complete = 56
Sam Houston ranked near the median for program strength, affordability, and flexibility, making it a solid option for earning your master’s online.
This program also gives you additional certification options, including the Academic Advising Certificate or the Certificate in Higher Education Assessment and Institutional Research. If you want to continue your education, this program also prepares interested students for candidacy in a doctoral program in Educational Leadership or Higher Education Administration.
#41: University of South Dakota
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Administration
Vermillion, SD
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Overall Score = 79
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 69
- Time to Complete = 56
USD’s program has two specialization tracks, allowing you to focus on Pre-K or adult and higher education studies.
This program ranked near the median for program strength, affordability, and flexibility.
#42: University of Central Florida
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
Orlando, FL
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Overall Score = 79
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 77
- Program Strength = 84
- Time to Complete = 70
This program broke the top 20 in our program-strength ranking, coming in at #18.
At UCF, you can earn your degree in about two years without stepping foot on campus—although you may opt to do so to attend your graduation ceremony.
Graduates from this program will be prepared to work in a number of different settings, including schools, corporate human resource environments, and museums or other experiential learning settings.
#43: Austin Peay State University
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership Studies
Clarksville, TN
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Overall Score = 79
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 76
- Program Strength = 56
- Time to Complete = 100
This program came in #10 in time to complete. If you opt for the accelerated program, it’s possible to complete your degree in one year. If you prefer a less-hectic pace, you can expect to graduate in around two years.
#44: Brandman University
Master of Arts in Education, Educational Leadership
Irvine, CA
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Overall Score = 79
- Flexibility = 73
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 95
- Time to Complete = 50
Brandman’s program came in at #8 in program strength in our rankings. This degree is for educators, as well as those looking to take on leadership roles in education-related fields without pursuing a credential for public school administration. Students with particular areas of interest can complete alternative coursework to create a custom program.
Hybrid or fully online programs are available.
#45: Montclair State University
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
Montclair, NJ
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Overall Score = 79
- Flexibility = 86
- Affordability = 70
- Program Strength = 74
- Time to Complete = 85
Montclair broke the top 25 in two of our ranking categories: #19 in time to complete and #25 in flexibility.
If you enroll in this hybrid program, you’ll take one class at time, for a total of six per year. Each class runs for eight weeks.
Montclair has three different options to suit your needs:
- A fast-track option, in which you can earn a master’s degree with both principal and supervisor certifications in 14 months while working full-time.
- A core choice option that has a less-hectic pace.
- Off-site learning at a nearby school district within the state.
#46: University of Southern Mississippi
Master of Education in Educational Administration and Supervision
Hattiesburg, MS
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Overall Score = 78
- Flexibility = 68
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 67
- Time to Complete = 85
University of Southern Miss is the rare school that allows out-of-state students to pay in-state tuition. With a fully online program, that means that you can graduate from this school in about four semesters no matter where you’re located.
#47: Kansas State University
Master of Science in Educational Leadership
Manhattan, KS
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Overall Score = 78
- Flexibility = 75
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 80
- Time to Complete = 56
This is a hybrid program that includes both online and in-person components. However, the in-person requirements may be able to be completed via synchronous videoconferencing sessions.
#48: Southern New Hampshire University
Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Manchester, NH
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Overall Score = 78
- Flexibility = 87
- Affordability = 70
- Program Strength = 69
- Time to Complete = 85
SNHU confers a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction degree with a concentration in education leadership.
The schools offers a 25% tuition discount for U.S. service members and their spouses, for full- or part-time admission.
#49: Concordia University - Chicago
Master of Arts in Educational Administration
River Forest, IL
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Overall Score = 78
- Flexibility = 73
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 68
- Time to Complete = 70
Concordia’s website does a great job of laying out what to expect if you enroll as an online student. Here’s what it says: “Each week, you’ll access a study module with lectures, readings and assignments. Then you’ll engage with your online learning community in faculty- and student-led discussions. You’ll ‘attend class’ when it's convenient for you, whether it’s at 6 a.m. before you leave for work or at 10 p.m. after the kids have gone to bed.”
Of note: Concordia was founded in the Lutheran tradition and incorporates Christian values within its education program.
#50: California Lutheran University
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
Thousand Oaks, CA
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Overall Score = 78
- Flexibility = 75
- Affordability = 70
- Program Strength = 79
- Time to Complete = 100
If you’re looking to maximize your study time and earn your degree fast, California Lutheran University is a good choice. It took the #2 spot in terms of completion time (right behind Regis University). You can earn your degree within 12 months by taking a full course load during each of the four 11-week terms. (Note that a “full” course load for this program is still considered “part-time,” as the program is geared toward working professionals.)
However, it’s important to note that this is a hybrid program. If you enroll, you’ll be able to complete about 40% of your coursework online. The remaining 60% will need to be completed at one of the school’s campuses in Thousand Oaks, Oxnard, Santa Maria, or Woodland Hills.
Obviously, the school was founded in the Lutheran tradition, however, all students are welcome.
#51: Ball State University
Masters of Arts in Educational Administration and Supervision
Muncie, IN
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Overall Score = 78
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 75
- Program Strength = 79
- Time to Complete = 71
This fully-online program can be completed in as little as 18-20 months. You’ll have weekly deadlines, but you can access course material and complete assignments at any time of the day or night.
Of note: You can access the full services of the university online, including library services, The Writing Center , tutoring, and technology support.
#52: University of Florida
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Gainesville, FL
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Overall Score = 76
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 70
- Program Strength = 100
- Time to Complete = 56
This program is mainly intended for people seeking eventual certification as a school principal. Most students graduate in about two years, attending courses during the fall, spring, and summer semesters. A typical course load is six credits.
The program is fully online, but the school claims that it mirrors requirements and rigor that would be completed by students who are attending classes in-person.
#53: Florida State University
Master of Science in Educational Leadership and Administration
Tallahassee, FL
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Overall Score = 76
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 67
- Program Strength = 92
- Time to Complete = 70
This fully online program is designed to help educators already engaged in the field continue their education while maintaining their employment.
#54: Arizona State University
Master of Education in Educational Leadership (Online Principal Preparation)
Tempe, AZ
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Overall Score = 76
- Flexibility = 86
- Affordability = 70
- Program Strength = 73
- Time to Complete = 70
The two-year Online Pathway allows you to complete your coursework online and gain the field experiences required to attain principal certification in Arizona.
#55: University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Master of Education in Educational Administration
Lincoln, NE
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Overall Score = 76
- Flexibility = 75
- Affordability = 77
- Program Strength = 83
- Time to Complete = 70
This program took the #21 spot for program strength. It offers several different areas of focus, including administration and leadership. Some concentrations require on-campus residency during the summer.
#56: University of Cincinnati
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Cincinnati, OH
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Overall Score = 74
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 70
- Program Strength = 85
- Time to Complete = 56
University of Cincinnati ranked #17 in terms of program strength.
There are four concentration areas you can choose from:
- Special Education Leadership
- Principal Leadership
- Early Childhood Leadership
- Online Learning and Leadership
This fully online program can be completed in as little as a year if you opt to go full-time. However, you may opt to go at a slower pace, taking just one or two classes per semester.
#57: Northeastern University
Masters of Arts in Higher Education Administration
Boston, MA
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Overall Score = 74
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 55
- Program Strength = 99
- Time to Complete = 72
Northeastern ranked #4 in program strength, with a rigorous program that focuses on experiential learning opportunities. Students may opt to participate in a Graduate School of Education Residency in order to build personal connections with faculty and fellow students.
The program can be completed fully online within 18 months to two years.
#58: University of Indianapolis
Master of Arts in School Leadership and Management
Indianapolis, IN
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Overall Score = 74
- Flexibility = 61
- Affordability = 90
- Program Strength = 67
- Time to Complete = 70
This innovative hybrid program has a few standout features. The program was created through an interdisciplinary collaboration between the schools of business and education. That’s a significant benefit to you as a student, because it gives you the opportunity to earn a certificate in business management while completing your degree.
In addition to that, this program offers preparation for the Building Level Administrator (BLA) licensure exam.
#59: Penn State University - World Campus
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
University Park, PA
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Overall Score = 71
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 70
- Program Strength = 52
- Time to Complete = 70
This program includes a combination of self-study and peer-to-peer interaction via the online learning portal. Set your own schedule to complete weekly assignments, readings, discussions, and occasional group work.
Penn State is an Act 48–approved provider for Pennsylvania educators, so the courses for the Master of Education in Educational Leadership may count toward your professional development hours.
#60: Boston University
Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
Boston, MA
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Overall Score = 71
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 55
- Program Strength = 98
- Time to Complete = 56
BU ranked #5 in program strength, with a fully online, part-time program that can be completed in about two years.
Courses are delivered as both asynchronous classes and flexible live sessions.
#61: Fordham University
Master of Science in Education – Catholic Educational Leadership
New York, NY
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Overall Score = 71
- Flexibility = 95
- Affordability = 40
- Program Strength = 85
- Time to Complete = 70
This program follows a cohort model. The curriculum is organized with a focus on adult- learning theory and utilizes action research, group projects, problem-based simulations, and policy analysis. Two semesters of internships are required.
Bonus: If you’re employed at a religious school, you may be eligible for a 40% scholarship. Fordham is a Catholic institution.
#62: George Washington University
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Administration
Washington, DC
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Overall Score = 70
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 55
- Program Strength = 94
- Time to Complete = 56
GW’s degree ranked #9 in program strength. This program can be completed in two years.
Coursework is intended to meet the academic requirements for administrative certification within the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, and other states that honor interstate compact agreements.
#63: Nova Southeastern University
Master of Science in Education
Fort Lauderdale, FL
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Overall Score = 69
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 55
- Program Strength = 71
- Time to Complete = 70
This program confers a master’s in education with a specialization in educational leadership. Coursework can be completed fully online, however, an administrative internship is a requirement of graduation.
This is also a state-approved program in Florida for add-on certification for teachers.
#64: Indiana State University
Masters of Arts in Student Affairs and Administration
Terre Haute, ID
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Overall Score = 69
- Flexibility = 75
- Affordability = 74
- Program Strength = 61
- Time to Complete = 50
This program can be completed mostly online, but it does require on-campus sessions on Saturdays three times each semester. It’s important to note that the program is only available to Indiana residents.
If you opt to take two or three courses per semester and over the summer, you can graduate in a little over two years. However, it’s possible to choose a less aggressive schedule.
#65: Quinnipiac University
Master of Science in Teacher Leadership
Hamden, CT
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Overall Score = 68
- Flexibility = 68
- Affordability = 70
- Program Strength = 82
- Time to Complete = 50
This program ranked at an impressive #22 in program strength. Quinnipiac offers 24/7 tech support, which is a great feature if you’re studying during off-hours. There are no set class times, so you can complete your work at your own pace.
Quinnipiac also has intensive academic advising to help you ensure that you’re getting the most out of your educational experience.
#66: Stony Brook University
Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration
Stony Brook, NY
https://www.stonybrook.edu/commcms/spd/hea/index.html
Overall Score = 67
- Flexibility = 86
- Affordability = 32
- Program Strength = 86
- Time to Complete = 85
Stony Brook nabbed the #15 spot in our program-strength ranking. Courses are asynchronous, meaning you can work and study on your own schedule. Assignments and group discussions are facilitated through the school’s online learning platform. You can also opt for a hybrid program, in which you take some classes online and some on-campus.
Full-time students can graduate in about 16 months. Part-time options are available.
#67: Texas A&M University
Master of Education in Educational Administration
College Station, TX
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Overall Score = 62
- Flexibility = 68
- Affordability = 38
- Program Strength = 95
- Time to Complete = 70
Texas A&M ranked #7 in program strength. The program can be completed in about two years, with most work completed entirely online. However, all students must complete a residency requirement in order to graduate. Out-of-state applicants are accepted.
#68: West Texas A&M University
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Canyon, TX
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Overall Score = 56
- Flexibility = 82
- Affordability = 25
- Program Strength = 55
- Time to Complete = 70
This program includes online learning and in-person, hands-on experiences—all supervised by tenured or tenure-track professors.
Of note: This program is highly customizable, allowing you to tailor your courses to fit with your specific areas of interest.
#69: University of Denver
Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
Denver, CO
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Overall Score = 53
- Flexibility = 61
- Affordability = 25
- Program Strength = 55
- Time to Complete = 70
This program ranked at #23 in terms of program strength. It operates on a cohort model, with expected graduation in about seven quarters, or a year and nine months.