An online master’s degree program in education administration may provide individuals with the skills and knowledge required to become leaders in the education system. In this one to two-year program, students may learn how to supervise instructors, develop innovative curriculum, and manage school budgets and finances. Program coursework may include both educational electives and major-specific education administration courses including personnel administration, foundations of educational leadership, and improvement of instruction.

Upon completion of this master’s degree program, students may seek employment or they may choose to further their education by enrolling in a doctoral level program. Students may have the opportunity to pursue employment in school district offices, state education departments, public schools systems, private schools, and charter school districts.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 10% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for master’s-level education administration degree programs may include select educational electives alongside core courses. These courses may teach students how to plan classroom curriculum, manage school budgets, and interview and hire qualified school personnel. Core educational leadership classes may include the following:

• School Leadership and Management Practices
• Personnel Administration
• Foundations of Educational Leadership
• Assessment and Improvement of Instruction
• School Administration
• Supervision of Instruction
• Curriculum Development

Career Options

Master’s-level graduates may explore opportunities in public school systems, private schools, charter school districts, district education departments, and Montessori schools. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in education administration are projected to increase by 10% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• School Principal
• Assistant Principal
• Curriculum Instructor
• School Superintendant
• School Board Member

Continuing Education

Students who successfully complete a master’s degree program in education administration may have the opportunity to further their education by enrolling in a doctoral degree program. A doctoral degree program in educational leadership may provide students with enhanced leadership, project management, and decision-making skills useful in an educational setting. Employers may require graduates to hold a master’s degree to be eligible for select administration positions.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook