Our Best College Values award is intended to highlight programs of study that are not only of reputably high quality, but that are affordable and pay off in the long run as well. At a time when the cost of a college education is higher than it has ever been, and a degree from a reputable school may be more important than ever, the stakes have never been higher when choosing a college. This BCV award is here to help make this decision a little easier.
For our 2016 online Master’s in Education in Administration and Leadership award winners we have selected 25 regionally accredited colleges and universities with above average reputations according to U.S. News and World Report and have ranked them according to our weighted methodology that aggregates the publicly available data of U.S. News scores, tuition rates, return on investment according to Payscale.com, graduation rates, and cohort default rates to produce an overall score of 1-100. The top 25 programs that come out of this process are those that are named our award winners.
Individuals with an advanced degree in education will enjoy better salaries, more advanced positions and career opportunities, and will benefit from intellectual and professional development that will improve teaching practice. Overall, getting a Master’s degree is an excellent way to advance in your career in education and being that growth in job opportunities for teachers is expected to vary from good to excellent in the next 10 years depending on the locality, grade level and subject taught according to the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, candidates with advanced degrees will be best positioned to fill the top positions that will open. If you are seeking to expand your professional options by cultivating leadership skills and becoming an administrator, this ranking will help you find a program of study that provides both a balance of reputation and affordability and the flexibility of online study for those already immersed in the demanding work of the education profession. Graduates of these programs will be equipped to take on roles as school principals, superintendents, postsecondary administrators, city managers, and more.
It should be noted that in building our ranking we take both in and out-of-state tuition into consideration. However, it is always the case that attending college in your state of residency will always be more affordable and ultimately provide a better return on investment than attending an out-of-state school. Where applicable, any program on this list offered through a public college or university that is in your state of residency should be considered among those at the top of the list.
We hope that this award proves to be a valuable resource as you move through the difficult process of selecting a school that meets all of your various needs. We wish you the best.
Note: Tuition rates listed are estimates and total tuition costs will vary from student to student and program to program based on a number of factors. Additionally, for those requiring state certification to advance into desired career positions, check state regulatory guidelines and authorizations before enrolling in a program outside of your desired state of employment to ensure that specific criteria for certifications will be met by the program of study.
#1. University of Nebraska Lincoln
The University of Nebraska Lincoln’s College of Education and Human Services offers both a Master of Arts in Educational Administration—Higher Education Administration, and a Master of Education in Educational Administration—School Leadership. The program in School Leadership is designed for individuals interested in P-12 school leadership, the MEd degree includes courses leading to administrative certification (most often the elementary or secondary principal endorsement). A portfolio is developed at the completion of the program to both verify that the student meets the standards for administrative certification and to serve as the final examination for the degree. The program in higher education administration is designed to serve the needs of those already employed at a college or university and who seek to advance their career in administration. In just four regular semesters and two summer sessions, part-time students can complete the degree. Both degrees require 30 credits for completion.
Accreditation: The University of Nebraska Lincoln is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $9,840
Out-of-State: $16,560
#2. University of Massachusetts Lowell
Offered by the University of Massachusetts Lowell’s Graduate School of Education, the M.Ed. in Educational Administration program is designed to meet the needs of experienced practitioners who wish to broaden and deepen their professional knowledge and to expand the contributions they can make to education. Candidates must have five years of current K-12 teaching experience in order to enter the program. Students of the program will progress through a specific sequence of 10 courses designed to build a systematic knowledge base of educational administration theory and practices. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: The University of Massachusetts Lowell is regionally accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $17,100
#3. Lamar University
The Master of Education in Educational Administration degree offered by Lamar University is an online degree designed to prepare students for professional careers in school leadership. This degree and certification prepares students for: organizational leadership & decision-making, the design and implementation of instruction for student achievement, management of the organization and its operations, human resource development, and building parent involvement and community support. In addition to research and evidence based instructional and curriculum management skills, students learn best practices and techniques for instructional leadership related to curriculum, instruction, supervision, and theories and methods for adult learning and professional development. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Lamar University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $8,460
#4. Old Dominion University
The online Master of Science in Education: Educational Leadership—Admin and Supervison K-12 degree program offered by Old Dominion University’s Darden College of Education prepares students for leadership roles in schools and school districts. The program leads to full Commonwealth of Virginia Licensure in Educational Administration and Supervision, Pre-K-12. Coursework will provide conceptual and theoretical knowledge, as well as practical field experience and will develop essential knowledge and skills in leadership for school improvement, strategic human resources and fiscal management, data analysis and decision making, and establishing and leading professional collaborative communities. The program consists of 30 credits which includes 120 hours of internship that are embedded throughout the content coursework.
Accreditation: Old Dominion University is regionally accredited by the Southern University of Colleges and Schools. The programs in education are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $13,920
Out-of-State: $15,030
#5. Fort Hays State University
Fort Hays State University offers a Master of Science in Educational Administration—Principal degree program designed to enable school leaders to demonstrate competency in the standards as developed by the Interstate School Leaders Licensure Consortium. Graduates will be prepared to face the challenges of leading a school and meeting students’ needs. During the two-year program, students will perform active research into current issues facing the field of education, while learning effective management skills. Upon completion, graduates will be prepared to apply for building leadership licensure in the state of Kansas and will have acquired essential knowledge in educational technology, research, school law, personnel evaluation, educational finance, school community relations, cultural diversity, and more. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Fort Hays State University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $9,108
#6. George Washington University
George Washington University’s Graduate School of Education and Human Development offers an online Master of Arts in Education and Human Development in Leadership and Administration designed or students seeking to position themselves to become a principal or school administrator with the ability to lead a culture of eating and learning, and inspire school communities to reach ever-higher goals. Students will focus on the needs of diverse educational communities and build the practical skills and knowledge necessary to improve student learning on the local, state or national level. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: George Washington University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The programs in education are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $25,350
#7. Brandman University
Brandman University’s Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Administration with Preliminary Administrative Services Credential degree will give students the theory and practice needed to assume the multiple roles required for effectively managing schools and districts. Designed specifically for the lifestyles of working professionals, the program combines the efficiency and convenience of online learning with the rich experience of face-to-face cohort learning. Fieldwork is included in every course to apply learning and to help build a portfolio of experience throughout the entire program. 33 to 34 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Brandman University is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Its education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $20,130
#8. Central Michigan University
Central Michigan University Global Campus offers an online Master of Arts in Educational Leadership with emphasis options in Charter School Leadership, Rural Education Leadership, Supervision, and Virtual Education Leadership. Graduates will learn the skills to effectively lead schools and meet the diverse needs of 21st Century learners. Through performance-based learning students will strengthen their knowledge base in management, community relations, law, curriculum supervision, instructional assessment, and action research. The program also qualifies individuals for the Michigan Administrator Certificate through the Michigan Department of Education. 30 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Central Michigan University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $15,810
#9. Stony Brook University
Stony Brook University offers an online Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration designed to provide the academic preparation and credentials necessary for college and university professionals to enhance their expertise and advance their careers. The programs combine aspects of theory and practice within the changing landscape of American higher education. It is suitable for individuals working in community colleges, 4-year colleges and universities—both public and private—as well as government agencies that address higher education planning and regulation. The degree requires 36 credits for completion and includes a great deal of flexibility within the curriculum to match the program of study to the individual’s interests and career goals.
Accreditation: Stony Brook University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $16,308
Out-of-State: $33,300
#10. Georgia Southern University
The College of Education at Georgia Southern University offers a Master of Education in Educational Administration and Supervision in Higher Education degree that is available online. Throughout the program graduates are exposed to a broad overview of the roles that academic affairs, student services, and business affairs have in the practice of higher education administration. The program is dedicated to developing scholar practitioners who are capable of drawing on research and theory to inform their practice. The program can be completed on either a full-time, or part-time basis through asynchronous online coursework that allows students to work at their own pace. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Georgia Southern University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The programs in education are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $14,760
#11. University of North Texas
The Master of Education in Educational Leadership degree at the University of North Texas strives to model leadership and develop administrators who can successfully lead schools in today’s diverse and dynamic educational environment. The online program is offered at an accelerated pace and can be completed in as little as 1 year of full-time study. The program emphasizes the skills and knowledge required for campus-level and central office administration careers, and students may choose to earn their master’s degree and principal certification simultaneously. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: The University of North Texas is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The programs in education are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $12,387
#12. The University of Scranton
The University of Scranton offers an online Master of Science in Educational Administration that will expand graduates professional options through building leadership skills. Throughout the program graduates will develop effective techniques for staff supervision and development, the capacity to integrate local, state, and national law directives and education policies, and the ability to efficiently organize instruction, students, and staff. The program consists of a minimum of 39 credits and can be completed in as little as 18 months.
Accreditation: The University of Scranton is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Programs in education are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $19,305
#13. Northern Arizona University
Northern Arizona University’s College of Education offers a Master of Education in Educational Leadership with emphasis areas in Community College & Higher Education, Educational Foundations, and Instructional Leadership of K12 Schools. These programs are all offered fully online and are designed to to develop students as leaders in K-12, higher education, and public sector settings. Students will study learning and teaching, not only as schooling, but broadly and globally, as a dynamic cultural and political dimension that takes place in a wide range of changing and intersecting sites of learning. Thesis and Non-Thesis options are both available for completion of the degree and a minimum of 30 credits must be successfully completed to attain the degree.
Accreditation: Northern Arizona University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $13,380
#14. Ball State University
Ball State University’s Teachers College offers an online Master of Arts in Educational Administration and Supervision designed to prepare educators for the task of school leadership. The program provides students with the preparation to earn a K-12 administration and supervision license in the state of Indiana. Graduates will gain essential knowledge and skills in areas such as human resource development, educational decision making, supervision of instruction, school law, and more. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree which can be finished in as little as 18-20 months.
Accreditation: Ball State University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $14,184
Out-of-State: $21,240
#15. Emporia State University
The Master of Science in Educational Administration offered through Emporia State University’s Teachers College is available fully online. The program qualifies students for Building-Level administrator licensure endorsement. The non-degree Educational Administration Building-Level and District-Level licensure are also available. Graduates will develop knowledge and competency in curriculum leadership, educational psychology, educational technology, supervision and evaluation, human relations and group process, educational law, and more. Intended for licensed school personnel interested in becoming educational administrators, this degree and licensure program requires 35 credits for completion.
Accreditation: Emporia State University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Programs in education are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $11,156
Out-of-State: $15,286
#16. The University of Northern Colorado
The College of Education and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Northern Colorado offers an Interdisciplinary Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Special Education Administration degree program that is offered online and is designed to expand the skills and knowledge of educational leaders at all levels, P-12. The Principal and Administrator (Superintendent) licensure programs can easily be combined with the program to further expand students’ career and leadership opportunities. A minimum of 39 credits are required for completion of the degree which leads to dual licensure as a principal and special education director.
Accreditation: The University of Northern Colorado is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $15,690
#17. North Carolina State University
The Master of School Administration program at North Carolina State University is offered through online delivery to North Carolina educators who aspire to be school administrators, especially school principals. It is designed to improve the quality of K-12 schools by preparing leaders who are dedicated to educational excellence and equity. Graduates are expected to use leadership strategies that will improve student performance in environments that are dynamic, interactive and culturally diverse. Students will complete eight courses plus a year-long full-time building- level internship. A total of 42 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: North Carolina State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Programs in education are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $17,114
Out-of-State: $37,484
#18. Indiana University Bloomington
Indiana University’s School of Education offers an online Master of Science in Education in Educational Leadership designed to be accessible from anywhere students live and work. The program builds on the knowledge and experience of students working as teachers and administrators in educational settings to develop advanced knowledge and skills in areas such as school community relations, teacher development and evaluation, school and educational law, school finance, and more. Students may choose from among the following concentration options: Higher Education and Student Affairs, Leadership in Educational Organizations, Learning Sciences, or School Law. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Indiana University Bloomington is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Programs in education are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $15,000
Out-of-State: $43,992
#19. The University of South Dakota
The online Master of Arts in Educational Administration offered through the University of South Dakota is designed to prepare individuals for administrative and leadership positions in the K-12 and adult and higher education settings. Emphasis areas are available in Adult & Higher Education, School District Superintendent, and PK-12 Principal. Within the program, students will be challenged to explore core themes and content that will provide them with a breadth of exposure pertinent to both professional and academic objectives in their respective areas of emphasis. A minimum of 32 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: The University of South Dakota is regionally accredited by the north Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $17,238
#20. West Virginia University
West Virginia University offers an online Master of Arts program in Higher Education Administration designed to prepare individuals for leadership positions within college and university settings or within affiliated organizations in support of the postsecondary sector. Throughout the program, students will become familiar with the intricacies of higher education institutions, and build particular knowledge and skill-sets within a core area that is of interest to them. The program of study is available via full or part-time enrollment and is flexible in its design to accommodate individuals’ unique interests. This is a 30 credit-hour program that can be completed within two to eight years, either as a part-time or full-time student and from any geographic location.
Accreditation: West Virginia University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Programs in education are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $12,180
Out-of-State: $34,800
#21. Angelo State University
The online M.Ed. in Educational Administration program offered through Angelo State University is designed for students interested in careers as educational administrators, such as Principals, Superintendents or other professional administrative positions. Graduates will be equipped to take on such positions through preparation in educational areas such as social and cultural influences, tests and measurements, lifespan development, legal and ethical principles, instructional supervision, structure and organization of public school systems, and more. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Angelo State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Programs in education are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $7,560
Out-of-State: $22,248
#22. University of Wisconsin Milwaukee
The Master in Education Administration with a concentration in Higher Education Administration offered through the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee is offered fully online and prepares students to foster organizational development and change within an increasingly complex and global society, and nurture within others a commitment to lifelong learning. A major focus of the program is preparing leaders for urban higher education institutions who honor diversity and difference among people, groups and societies. A minimum of 33 credits are required for completion of the degree which can be finished in as little as 2 years.
Accreditation: The University of Wisconsin Milwaukee is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $21,417
#23. Concordia University Wisconsin
The online Master of Science in Education—Education Administration degree offered through Concordia University Wisconsin is for teachers and current administrators who want to develop their organizational and leadership abilities. Graduates of this program will be well prepared with the necessary administrative skills, such as human resource management, teacher evaluation, and even public relations to advance in their careers as professional educators. The administrative concentration in the Master of Science in Education provides the opportunity to receive a Wisconsin State Administrative license through the Department of Public Instruction. Students have the option to complete either a thesis or graduate seminar project and will be required to successfully complete 33 to 39 graduate credits to attain the degree.
Accreditation: Concordia University Wisconsin is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: 18,084 – $21,372
#24. Florida State University
Florida State University’s online Master of Science in Educational Leadership and Administration is for experienced teachers, school and district administrators, and other educators who seek to develop their leadership potential and competency. The program is DOE approved, incorporates a core of professional knowledge, includes an experiential component, and facilitates mastery of the Florida Principal Leadership Standards in educational leadership. Program emphasis includes strong academic training, practical application of content, and mentoring with field experts in the changing context of public school administration. Program objectives are drawn from the core content identified by the Florida Principal Leadership Standards, from research and theory on educational leadership, and from collaboration between practitioners and faculty of the department. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Florida State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Programs in education are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $20,484
Out-of-State: $43,236
#25. Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw State University’s Bagel College of Education offers an online Master of Education in Educational Leadership that rovides candidates with the content knowledge and credentials necessary to effectively lead schools, districts and, multi-million dollar organizations providing professional educational services. The program is highly professionally oriented, and candidates for the program are expected to currently be employed in a professional role in an organization providing professional educational services (e.g., school, regional educational service agency, department of education). Field activities accompany the semester’s work to provide synthesis of the practical and theoretical knowledge necessary for today’s educational leader. At the conclusion of the program, candidates will possess the knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to lead schools to higher levels of achievement for all students. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Kennesaw State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Programs in education are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $14,688
