Compare online master’s in educational leadership programs

What is a master’s in educational leadership?

An online master’s in education leadership is an advanced degree that opens the door to various leadership roles within public and private education. 

Many programs also have an optional path which includes the educational requirements to then obtain a license. Learners can typically complete these programs in fewer than three years, studying full or part time.

Admission requirements for online educational leadership programs

Admissions requirements for master’s in educational leadership online programs vary by school. While most programs are accredited, it is important to research any program in which you are interested to ensure its accreditation is current. Most programs will require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, with a minimum grade point average.

Most programs will ask for a statement of purpose to ensure that you would be a good fit for the program.

Online master’s in educational leadership programs each have unique specific admissions requirements. However, many require the following items:

• Résumé or CV

• Letters of recommendation

• Official transcripts

• Valid teaching credentials

• Work verification form

• GRE scores

The best way to determine the specific requirements for a program in which you are interested is to directly request information from that program. edX hosts a variety of online EdD programs. For learners interested in education but considering all of their options, there are also other doctorate and master’s programs in education, as well as master’s of arts in teaching programs. Prior to applying, there are many resources available, including how to write a CV. 

How to apply

You can apply to a master’s in education leadership program by requesting more information about any online master’s in educational leadership program that interests you. Browse online masters in educational leadership programs to discover your best fit. This can be done through a form on the website, by chatting with an AI-powered assistant from edX, or by calling or emailing each individual school.

With multiple options under the edX umbrella, there is sure to be a degree program that fits your needs and future goals.

Online MS in educational leadership curriculum

The curriculum for an online master’s in educational leadership often includes two types of coursework: core classes and elective classes. Learners also have the option to study full or part time to earn their degrees.

Core classes build on the foundation from undergraduate study, but expand on concepts and techniques. Courses may include:

• Human resources in educational settings

• Leadership theory

• School finance

• Educational law

Elective classes often focus on communications, special education, and curriculum and instruction.

Many online master’s in educational leadership programs also include in-person internships, as well as practicum courses.

Outside of the master’s in educational leadership curriculum, there are many classes available for learning education and learning leadership, as well as learning human resources. Learning online offers a great amount of flexibility and discipline, but there are many tips for learning online available to learners.

Career pathways with an online master’s degree in educational leadership 

There are many careers you can pursue with an online master’s in educational leadership. Learners can focus on becoming a principal, administrator, or professional teacher, or seek a position in pupil personnel services. Both public and private education systems offer positions for professionals who have specialized in educational leadership.

Job outlook

Upon receiving a master’s in educational leadership, you can pursue many different careers. Graduates typically apply for positions as elementary school principals, assistant principals, high school principals, postsecondary education administrators, and instructional coordinators. The job outlook for principals in middle, elementary, and high school is expected to increase by 1% between 2022 and 2032.^{Footnote 1}

Salary 

There are many possible careers for those with a master’s degree in educational leadership. One of the most popular is becoming a school principal. In order to be a principal, you would typically need a master’s degree and at least five years of work experience in a related occupation. Most states also will require a license. The median principal pay as of 2022 is over $100,000 a year.^{Footnote 2} This may vary depending on the field in which you work and your experience.