Most Affordable Online Master's In Educational Administration Degrees

Updated January 6, 2023

check mark Reviewed by

Our Integrity Network

CollegeChoice.net is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.

Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:

  • Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
  • Provide specific, corrective feedback.
  • Identify critical information that writers may have missed.

Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for CollegeChoice.net as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.

Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.

Earning an educational administration degree online provides flexibility. Online programs range from $300-$1,350 per credit, according to EducationData.org.

CollegeChoice.net is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

Credit: PeopleImages | iStock | Getty Images Plus

Master's in Administration Education

Online master's in educational administration degrees prepare learners for leadership roles in education. Master's degree holders support educators, oversee school operations, and improve student learning. Earning a master's in educational administration also helps professionals enter the education field.

Online enrollees complete coursework from anywhere. Many programs require onsite field experience and practicum hours. Learners can complete these requirements locally.

Our list ranks the most affordable online master's in educational administration degrees. Prospective students can use this list to find the best fit for their budget and career goals.

View Our Rankings List Here

Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in Education Degrees

What can you do with a master's in educational administration?

Graduates can work as school principals, higher education administrators, or school administrators. The degree also leads to opportunities in training and development.

How long does it take to get a master's in educational administration?

Full-time learners can earn a master's degree in two years. Students can enroll in accelerated programs to finish sooner.

What do you learn in a master's in educational administration program?

Learners study leadership theory and education research. They also explore curriculum development and program evaluation.

Featured Online Educational Administration Programs

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

Most Affordable Online Master's in Educational Administration Degrees 2022

#1 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Educational Administration Degrees

University of Florida

  • Gainesville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The online master of education at University of Florida is one of the nation’s top-ranked programs for educational administration students. The program equips enrollees with advanced training valued by employers in their profession. The curriculum provides preparation for a terminal degree such as a Ph.D.

This school’s online format attracts students who value remote learning. The flexible program grants enrollees more control over their schedules and makes education easier to fit with other priorities. Degree-seekers typically perform better in educational environments such as this, where personalized learning is emphasized and faculty support is available to all.

The application requirements include a bachelor’s degree, unless the program states otherwise. The school accepts around 37% of all who apply, though different programs report different averages. In-state students can expect to pay around $10,770 per year, which they can help fund through grants, loans, and scholarships.

Average Tuition
In-state
$4,477
Out-of-state
$25,694
Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
37%
Students Enrolled
52,407
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Educational Administration Degrees

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

  • Edinburg, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Prospective graduate students can earn an educational leadership degree at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, an institution known for developing flexible graduate programs. A master of education in educational leadership is among the 17 online master's degrees delivered from the Edinburg, Texas, campus. Degree-seekers can pursue this degree from anywhere, which adds to the curriculum’s appeal.

A bachelor’s in the major is a typical requirement for many master’s programs, but criteria vary depending on the degree. Master's degree-seekers complete rigorous coursework they couldn’t access in a bachelor’s degree alone. This credential lays the foundation for a doctorate or other terminal degree.

Learners studying from within Texas pay an average of $5,959 per year, or $13,555 if elsewhere. Enrollees can use resources at the financial aid department to determine if they qualify for financial aid like grants and scholarships. Students may also want to consider loans as an option to afford tuition.

Average Tuition
In-state
$6,664
Out-of-state
$16,792
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
29,113
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Educational Administration Degrees

University of Central Florida

  • Orlando, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The online master's in educational leadership at University of Central Florida is one of the nation’s top-ranked programs for educational administration students. The program goes much deeper in training highly skilled workers in the field compared to a bachelor's. The master's in educational leadership degree gives graduates the credential they need to pursue a terminal degree like a doctorate.

This school’s online format attracts people who see the appeal of remote learning. Students may want an advanced degree but must manage obligations like caregiving and employment. This flexible degree supports those endeavors. The school ensures that enrollees receive the personalized attention they need, whether they study in person or online.

Prospective students need a bachelor’s to apply to this program. The admittance rate to this school is 44%, with some differences possible across programs. Once accepted, students can explore financial aid options to help pay for tuition, which stands at around $6,916 per year for Florida residents.

Average Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
69,402
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Educational Administration Degrees

The University of West Florida

  • Pensacola, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Educational administration students attend the University of West Florida for top-ranked degrees such as the online master of education in educational leadership. This program provides learners with advanced knowledge and training required for many higher-level jobs in the field. Graduates gain the credentials they need to pursue a terminal degree like a doctorate.

People see the appeal of remote learning and that is a draw for the school. Students do not need to sacrifice other important aspects of their lives, such as work and family to earn this degree. The school ensures that enrollees receive the personalized attention they need. whether they study in person or online.

Though the department can provide more information, the application requirements include a bachelor’s degree and transcripts. The acceptance rate is 31% at this school, but expect some differences across programs. Students who live in Florida can expect to pay around $7,088 per year for tuition. Enrollees can use grants, loans, and scholarships to help fund their education.

Average Tuition
In-state
$3,735
Out-of-state
$16,004
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
31%
Students Enrolled
12,557
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Educational Administration Degrees

University of Louisiana Monroe

  • Monroe, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

At University of Louisiana Monroe, degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate programs. The master of education in educational leadership is an excellent choice for learners with a bachelor’s in educational administration who want to advance their education with a master’s. Enrollees complete an accredited curriculum with little need to relocate or give up their full-time jobs.

Students enrolled in the master's in educational leadership program benefit from the school's 18-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio. The program's rigorous curriculum provides extensive educational administration training administered by scholars and experts. Obtaining this degree prepares graduates for more advanced career opportunities than a bachelor's degree typically allows.

Paying for college is a top issue. Louisiana students can expect to pay $6,490 per year, while out-of-state students pay $18,590. The price of tuition is lower if learners qualify for grants and scholarships, which many do at the institution. Degree-seekers may also explore financial aid, which is used by about 41% of the school’s enrollees.

Average Tuition
In-state
$5,788
Out-of-state
$17,888
Retention Rate
73%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
8,673
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Why Get a Master's in Educational Administration?

Online master's in educational administration degrees help educators expand their careers and those new to the field move into advanced positions. Earning an educational administration degree online provides flexibility. Learners do not need to commute to campus or relocate to attend the most affordable program.

How Much Does a Master's in Educational Administration Degree Cost?

The cost of a master's degree varies by school and program. Online educational administration programs typically charge a per-credit fee. Online programs range from $300-$1,350 per credit, according to EducationData.org. Choosing a program with a lower number of credits can lead to a more affordable degree. Tuition rates for some of the best master's in educational administration programs range from $10,000-$40,000. Students can lower their out-of-pocket costs by applying for scholarships and grants.

Additional Online Student Fees

Online students save money by not paying for campus housing or meal plans. However, they should budget for expenses such as books and supplies. Online enrollees may need to buy a new computer or upgrade their internet. Some online colleges charge technology or graduation fees. Programs that include in-person requirements, such as campus visits, lead to travel costs. Students should also budget for licensing costs. Many programs only list tuition and some fees. Prospective enrollees should research programs' total cost.

How Much Do Educational Administration Majors Make?

An educational administration degree can qualify graduates for roles with above-average salaries. For example, training and development managers earn a median annual salary of $115,640, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This figure exceeds the median annual salary of $41,950 for all occupations. The degree often meets the requirements for school principal positions. Principals earn a median annual salary of $98,490. The BLS projects jobs for these professionals to grow 8% from 2020-2030.

Courses in a Master's in Educational Administration Program

Earning an educational administration degree online strengthens leadership, organizational, and analytical skills. Learners take courses in education research, public school finance, and education laws. These courses prepare students for leadership roles. Educational administration programs include practicum hours or field experience. Online learners can complete these requirements locally. See below for common courses in an educational administration program. Keep in mind that each program sets its own curriculum.

  • Educational Administration

    Learners develop their leadership style and philosophy in educational administration courses. The class covers administrative skills for educational settings. Enrollees study resource management and educational finance. Other topics include ethical leadership in education and leadership behaviors. The course prepares graduate students for administrative and leadership responsibilities.
  • Education Research

    Students examine current research in education and various research methods. The course covers qualitative and quantitative research methods. Learners develop analytical skills and gain an understanding of research methodologies. Students also explore practical applications of education research. They learn how to conduct evidence-based program evaluations.
  • Promoting School Improvement

    This course trains enrollees how to analyze data and create and implement school improvement plans. The course also covers evaluating programs, encouraging effective learning environments, and promoting improvement.

Career and Salary Outlook for Educational Administration Students

A master's in educational administration prepares graduates for leadership roles in education. Degree holders can also explore jobs outside of the education field. See below for potential careers for graduates with an education administration degree.

  • Training and Development Managers

    These managers assess an organization's training needs and oversee skill-boosting programs. They evaluate training programs and train staff to lead sessions. Training and development managers also ensure training and development programs align with organizational goals. They often work in human resources departments.
  • Instructional Coordinators

    These coordinators manage curriculum for K-12 schools. They develop new materials, train teachers, and assess curricular effectiveness. Instructional coordinators may recommend textbooks, technologies, or teaching techniques to meet teaching standards. The role typically requires a master's degree and teaching experience.
  • Postsecondary Education Administrators

    These professionals manage student services and other administrative functions at colleges and universities. Also known as college administrators or higher education administrators, they work in housing, student affairs, and admissions. The role typically requires a master's degree and higher education experience.
Career Salary Outlook
CareerMedian Annual SalaryProjected Growth Rate (2020-2030)
Training and Development Managers$115,64011%
Instructional Coordinators$66,97010%
Postsecondary Education Administrators$97,5008%

Source: BLS

Recommended Reading

Helping you prepare and gain the most out of your educational experience.

Discover a program that is right for you.

Search schools to find the program that is right for you.