Online Master's Degree in Education Administration

Individuals can prepare themselves to seek school leadership positions through the coursework and training of master's in education administration programs. Depending on the school, students in these degree programs may work toward a Master of Education (M.Ed.), Master of Science (M.S.), or Master of Arts (M.A.) in education administration or education leadership. Many schools also offer specialized degrees in higher education administration for those interested in working at a college or university. Graduate programs generally require students to have a bachelor's degree to qualify.

Online Master's Degree in Education Administration: Coursework and Overview

Courses are intended to help students prepare for administrative education roles, and studies may take one to two years, depending on a student's schedule. Examples of common courses are outlined below:

Principalship: Students examine successful leadership techniques as well as the role and responsibilities of school principals. Academic programs may feature specialized internships that give students an opportunity to gain exposure to leadership roles in a school setting.
School Finance: Students learn how to effectively manage a school's financial resources and analyze best practices for school and district budgeting.
School Law: Courses provide an overview of local, state, and federal education laws and policies that impact education and the ethics of education administrators.
Supervision of Instruction: Students evaluate the role of education supervisors and supervision processes and also discuss contemporary issues in instructional supervision.
School and Community Relations: Courses typically assess the role of educational leaders in building school and community relationships. Classes also go over how to utilize community ties and resources to help meet the school's needs.

Potential Careers for Individuals with a Master's Degree in Education Administration

A graduate-level degree in education administration can be helpful and is often required for a variety of careers, most of which are in school settings. A few careers toward which individuals can apply their degree are discussed below:

Education administrators for preschool and childcare centers plan and direct methods of instruction, educational programs, and student activity programs. Additional responsibilities include allocating funds for staff and supplies and directing and coordinating teacher and administrator activities. Courses in early childhood education, school finance, and instruction may help individuals in this professional more effectively carry out their responsibilities.
Elementary, middle, and high school principals manage their school's operations, staff, and finances. They also set academic standards and make sure teachers have the necessary resources to meet them. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov) reports that public schools require principals to have a master's degree in education leadership or administration, and employers may also require related work experience and a license in education administration. Courses in school finance and principalship may help prepare prospective principals for their job responsibilities, particularly those in budgeting and management.
Instructional coordinators evaluate the teaching methods and curriculum development of a school. They also help teachers stay up-to-date with teaching standards and train them in new content or programs. According to bls.gov, school districts typically require instructional coordinators to have at least a master's degree as well as experience working as a teacher or school administrator. In addition to taking courses on instruction, students interested in this career may benefit from curriculum development courses, since instructional coordinators work to improve a school's teaching and curriculum.
Postsecondary education administrators supervise student services, academics, and research at colleges and universities. Specific responsibilities vary by department. For example, administrators who work in student affairs handle nonacademic activities such as student athletics and may also manage campus multicultural centers. Bls.gov notes that higher-level administrator positions generally require at least a master's degree, and employers often seek experienced candidates. Individuals aiming for a career in postsecondary administration can gain specialized preparation through a degree program focused on higher education administration.

While a master's degree may help qualify an individual for the above careers, education administration positions often require licensing. Licensing requirements vary by state and school district. For example, many states require public school principals to be licensed as a school administrator, and some mandate that principals take continuing education courses to retain their license.

Pursuing a career, however, is not the only path for students after earning their degree; they also have the option of continuing their studies via a doctorate program. Individuals interested in earning a doctorate degree in education administration should contact an admissions counselor to assess their qualifications.

Additional Resources for Individuals with a Master's Degree in Education Administration:
Education Administrators for Preschool and Childcare Center/Program, O*NET, 2010
Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2012
Instructional Coordinators, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2012
Postsecondary Education Administrators, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2012