An affordable online master’s in educational leadership provides a flexible and accessible pathway to roles such as principal, administrator, or policy leader.
Key Takeaways:
- Campbellsville University has the #1 lowest tuition at just $4,785 for its online master’s in educational leadership.
- Southwestern Oklahoma State University leads in graduate earnings with a $68,761 median salary for those in this field.
- Union Commonwealth University offers a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
- University of Nebraska – Lincoln leads in retention with an 82% rate.
Our rankings are based on accredited schools offering fully online graduate degrees. All data is manually verified using official school sources. See our methodology for details. You may also want to check out our list of the best online master's degrees in educational leadership based on salary.
2025 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Educational Leadership
| Rank | School | Location | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Campbellsville University | Campbellsville (KY) | $4,785 | |
| Evangel University | Springfield (MO) | $4,800 | |
| Southwestern Oklahoma State University | Weatherford (OK) | $4,846 | |
| California Coast University | Santa Ana (CA) | $4,875 | |
| Albany State University | Albany (GA) | $5,082 | |
| University of Nebraska - Lincoln | Lincoln (NE) | $5,475 | |
| Georgia Southern University | Statesboro (GA) | $5,505 | |
| Nelson University | Waxahachie (TX) | $5,550 | |
| Morningside University | Sioux City (IA) | $5,568 | |
| Southeastern University | Lakeland (FL) | $5,625 | |
| American College of Education | Chicago (IL) | $5,640 | |
| Union Commonwealth University | Barbourville (KY) | $5,735 | |
| Southeast Missouri State University | Cape Girardeau (MO) | $5,744 | |
| Fitchburg State University | Fitchburg (MA) | $5,775 |
Overview of Online Educational Leadership Master's Degrees
Advanced degrees in educational leadership are common in the online learning space, in part because it's one of the key ways teachers can advance their careers in education and boost their salaries. Educational leadership degrees prepare current teachers and education professionals for careers as principals, school district administrators, department heads, curriculum developers, education consultants, and other upper-level roles in education.
Master's in educational leadership programs are designed to give students the skills necessary to be effective leaders in education through a blend of theoretical coursework, research, and hands-on experience in the field.
Some programs offer specializations to help students customize their program to fit their career goals. Students might look for focus areas such as instructional leadership, policy analysis, gifted education, educational technology, policy studies, or principal certification.
Graduate students in educational leadership programs often conduct research on topics such as innovative teaching methods, how educational policies affect communities, or leadership practices in schools. Students may also need to complete experiential learning, such as an internship or residency, and complete a thesis or capstone project as part of their program.
Common Courses
A master's in educational leadership will cover core aspects necessary to lead in the field, including areas such as educational law and policy, curriculum development, finance and budgeting in education, diversity, community engagement, and data-driven decision making. Some programs let students choose electives to fit their professional interests, such as education technology.
Funding an Online Educational Leadership Degree
While the high price tag of a college degree can be daunting, there are many resources to help pay for college. The majority of students use financial aid to help cover the cost of their degree, including scholarships, student loans, and employer-funded tuition programs. Many online students also work while in school to pay for college and living expenses.
Financial Aid
The vast majority of students use financial aid to make college more affordable. The first step to applying for most financial aid options is filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or the FAFSA. Filling out the FAFSA tells schools you are interested in financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and assistantships. This also acts as an application for federal student loans, which you can accept or decline.
Gift Aid: Grants, Scholarships, and Fellowships
When you receive your financial aid offer from your school, it might include gift aid and student loans. Gift aid is the best kind of financial aid because it doesn't have to be paid back. Gift aid includes grants, scholarships, and fellowships and usually comes from the federal government, your school, nonprofits, and other organizations. Your financial aid offer might also include a graduate assistantship, where you can work part-time for your school in exchange for tuition credits and/or a stipend.
Once you receive your offer, ask your school if there are any other scholarships or other funding opportunities you can apply for. You can also look for scholarships outside of your school, which might be offered by nonprofit organizations, businesses, and other groups.
Employees should also check with their employers to see if they have access to tuition reimbursement benefits. Many school districts and other employers offer tuition assistance programs to help students cover the cost of college, especially if their degree is related to their current job.
Student Loans and Other Funding
After all gift aid options are exhausted, there are a few additional ways to help bridge the gap.
Student loans are the last option for students who need help covering tuition and living expenses. While it can be intimidating to borrow money for college, students can avoid owing more than they need by becoming educated borrowers.
Students can use either federal student loans or borrow from a bank, their school, or another private lender. Federal loans are generally seen as the better option over private loans. Benefits of borrowing from the federal government include the option for student loan forgiveness programs, fixed interest rates, and income-driven repayment plans.
There are two types of federal loans available to graduate students: grad PLUS loans and direct unsubsidized loans. Direct unsubsidized loans are the cheaper option, with lower interest rates and other fees. Graduate students who are eligible for loans can borrow in direct unsubsidized loans.
Grad PLUS loans have higher interest rates and fees, but are not capped at a certain dollar amount per year. Students can borrow whatever is left of their cost of attendance after other financial aid in PLUS loans. Students will need to pass a credit check to qualify for grad PLUS loans.
Both loans accrue interest even while a student is in school, so it's important to borrow as little as possible. Students can learn more about loans in our guide to student loan debt. Educational leadership graduates who work for a nonprofit or government organization at the federal, state, local, or tribal levels, such as a public school, may also qualify for the , where any remaining debt is forgiven after 120 payments or 10 years of monthly payments.
What Can You Do With an Online Educational Leadership Degree?
An online master's in educational leadership can open up a variety of career paths in education, administration, and policy development. Pursuing a career in educational leadership is one of the main ways teachers can advance their careers and earn a higher salary. Here are some potential career opportunities in educational leadership, with data from the (BLS):
School Principals
manage all school operations, from day-to-day school activities to curriculum coordination. They also oversee teachers and provide a safe and productive learning environment for students. The BLS projects roughly 23,500 job openings per year over the next decade as current principals retire.
Instructional Coordinators
are in charge of developing curricula for different areas of study, selecting textbooks, and training teachers on new instructional materials. They often work for elementary, middle, and high schools, colleges, universities, and professional schools. Some might find jobs at educational support organizations and government agencies.
Postsecondary Education Administrators
work at colleges and universities to coordinate and manage admissions, administrative affairs, faculty and staff, athletics, academics, student services, research, and other areas within the school. Depending on the size of the college, administrators may have a broad or more focused role. Larger schools might have a separate office for athletics, for example, while small colleges might lump athletics into student activities.
When considering whether a master's in educational leadership will be financially worth it, it's important to think about the cost of the degree and the potential salary boost you may see with it. On average, master's degree holders earn more than those with just a bachelor's degree. Leadership roles in education also tend to earn higher salaries than teaching positions.
Further Education
Earning a doctorate in educational leadership is another way educators can unlock upper-level positions and earn higher salaries. A doctoral degree is the highest education level you can achieve and might help open up more advanced career opportunities in colleges and universities, government agencies, and other organizations, alongside the potential for a large salary increase.
FAQs About Online Educational Leadership Degrees
How Do I Choose a Master's in Educational Leadership?
There are a few factors to consider when choosing a master's in educational leadership. First, look for an online school that offers the program you're interested in, whether it's a general educational leadership degree, a master’s of education in educational leadership, or offers a specialization in areas such as principal certification or educational technology.
Second, check to see what type of online format the program is in and if there are any in-person requirements. Students who prefer more face-to-face time might look for online programs with synchronous classes, where students meet live on camera with their class on a regular basis. Those who don't have very flexible schedules might prefer self-paced or asynchronous options, where they can log in when it works for them.
Third, make sure that the school is accredited and has a good reputation. Accreditation means a school is regularly evaluated to make sure it meets academic standards. A school's reputation can also help you improve your career outcomes after graduation.
Other important factors to think about include tuition, financial aid opportunities, alumni salaries and outcomes, practicum and internship requirements, and faculty expertise.
How Long Is an Educational Leadership Degree?
Most educational leadership master's programs take around two years to complete when enrolled full-time. Students who attend part-time might take three to four years, depending on how many classes they can take at a time. Some programs offer accelerated options where students can fast-track their degrees. Self-paced programs are also available to students who want to complete their degree sooner or chip away at it when they have the time.
What Are the Admission Requirements for Educational Leadership Degrees?
Applicants will need to have a bachelor's degree to get into a master's program. While a bachelor's in teaching or education isn't necessary, most programs are designed for students who have experience in the field. Programs might require teacher certification or a certain amount of teaching experience. Other common admissions requirements include undergraduate transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose or application essay, and a resume. Some schools also have minimum GPA requirements and might require test scores such as the GRE.
Is a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership Worth the Cost?
While this depends on personal circumstances, an online master's degree in general leads to higher salaries and more career opportunities in most sectors. This is true in education as well and is especially true for teachers, who tend to earn lower salaries compared to professionals in other fields, such as STEM or business. Students trying to understand the benefit of earning an educational leadership master's degree should consider how much the degree will cost them in both time and money and what they will get out of it.
The return on investment for a master's in educational leadership is not purely financial. Many people pursue this degree program out of a desire to make a positive impact on students and the education system. These other benefits, such as career satisfaction and the opportunity to shape educational policy and outcomes, can be equally or even more valuable for those who are passionate about education.
Student Reviews of Online Educational Leadership Programs
My experience with the online program in educational leadership has been good. I like the format and tools available and it is a solid and reasonable approach for a graduate degree. Academically, it is a good online environment and easy to understand and follow. I have gotten needed support with advising and coursework when I sought it out. Previously as an on site residential student 15 years ago, I recognize the environment is different for online versus residential classes. As a residential student,... Read More
Review Date: 8/22/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Attending ACE was a wonderful experience. The Adjunct faculty members were helpful, encouraging. The staffs always check up to ensure all is going well and if assistance was needed. I have and will continue to recommend ACE for continued education when pursuing a career.
Review Date: 7/27/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My experience at FNU was excellent. It was a great place to learn. One of the advantages was the small class sizes. I felt that if I had any challenges with the course material, I could reach out to the instructor and receive personalized attention. The school staff is professional and attentive. Everyone was willing to go the extra mile to assure the student experience was positive.
Review Date: 9/21/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Plain and simple, if you want to go to college then you will pay. I've been to traditional CC, traditional Uni, for-profit for a license. The list goes on and on. You have to be mature and choose what is best at the time. If you're really good at application then this is a great school. If you want to research, go spend 10k a semester. I'm not complaining about debt and job interviews start as soon as you get into the program not after. Easy stuff. Basics.
Review Date: 3/20/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am about halfway through my program here and am satisfied. The interaction with instructors is minimal and constructive feedback is almost non-existent. The course work can be mildly tough and time consuming but is very doable. I am raising 3 kids under age 6, and without help from my wife who allows me to spend hours in front of the computer, I don't think I could do it, but thanks to her I am. Even without the benefits of a more traditional school environment, I feel that the course work is relevant... Read More
Review Date: 9/24/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My experience at the American College of Education (ACE) has been one of the best in my career as a professional in the education field. From the recruiter Zach Byrd, to the Student Success Coach Bonnie Rios to each and every one of the professors and other staff members they provided me with an excellent service and knowledge. The quality of the professors and their classes are high quality. It is very doable even if you are teaching full-time like me, but keep in mind that you need to establish... Read More
Review Date: 4/1/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
AIU is a great university. I currently have a 3.85 GPA and I earned every bit of it. The discussions are engaing and I have made some great friends. More importantly, the classes and lessons requires an abundance of critical thinking. I appreciate the targeted feedback on the assignments from the professors, the friendly phone calls from my advisors, and the live chats. I believe this instition is truly set up for student success. I would invite anyone that is self-motivated and eager to start a... Read More
Review Date: 11/13/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
ACE has been a very rewarding learning experience for me. I enjoyed the course work and the professors were very knowledgeable and helpful. There practicum course is top notch and helped me gain the field experience I needed to be able to perform the tasks of an education leader at a great capacity. I highly recommend this school.
Review Date: 12/10/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Kennesaw State University is a great college. The people that work for the college are very helpful and easy to access. Whenever I have questions all I have to do is send an email and within hours I have a response from someone in the department and my question is answered right away.
Review Date: 2/13/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I really enjoyed this degree and getting to know other students. ACE has an orientation program to help you learn their system and most professors give very clear directions. If you need help, you can contact your professor, ask the other students, or contact your Success Coach. Everyone I have spoken to has been very friendly and ready to help. The work load is nothing more than I would expect for an expedited degree. If you follow the guidelines, do your work with integrity, and look at the rubrics,... Read More
Review Date: 2/17/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Working full-time as a firefighter/paramedic I found the value and quality of education I am currently receiving from Arizona State University to be second to none. I searched for a few years after finishing my bachelor's degree and found the majority of graduate degree programs in the public administration and fire service fields of study to be either overly expensive or require too much of a time commitment for graduate studies, which can be difficult for a working adult with a young family, like... Read More
Review Date: 2/14/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I would highly recommend Concordia University-Portland to any student looking to further their career as a teacher or school administrator. The program was very well run, professors were very knowledgeable and directed us to learn about techniques we could practice in our classroom if we were teaching or what to look forward to as a teacher. There are so many great resources at your fingertips that make this journey so special. And in only a year. Great experience and highly recommend.
Review Date: 5/14/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Nova definitely has great online programs that allow you to manage your time wisely while simultaneously having enough courtesy to understand life happens. They are super friendly and helpful also. When I first applied, they reached to me via text and email to see if I needed anything. Just as well, the staff from the department sent me some links for graduate school scholarships that I'd qualify for to help reduce the cost of education. I've never heard of such a thing. I think that gesture when... Read More
Review Date: 5/16/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The program was fine for getting my Masters however one VERY important thing to note is that I missed one 5 week course in the winter of 2016 due to illness and it set back my graduation date by an ENTIRE YEAR. For some reason, even though the classes are online and all the materials are available upfront- they only offer the courses in a certain rotation. I didnt realize this when I applied and certainly would have powered thru if I knew. So now I have to wait until Spring of 2019 to take my last... Read More
Review Date: 8/10/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I received my bachelor's and master's degrees from Siena. The professors were very interactive and helpful. They also brought a tremendous amount of knowledge to the classroom. I was in the online campus and enjoyed my interactions with other students and the quick responses I received from instructors and advisors while I was a student. I recommend Siena to all my colleagues looking to return to school. I am a proud Alumni of this wonderful institution.
Review Date: 4/3/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Arkansas State University offers a great online program! I chose ASU because of the informative online courses that are offered by the professors. The online courses allow you to move at your own pace, but still interact with colleagues who are taking the class as well. I would definitely recommend ASU to any student pursuing their Master's Degree.
Review Date: 2/24/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Capella University is a great institution. My final class ends December 2017 and I will have my Masters Degree in Nursing. I plan to attend March 2018 graduation. Capella offers every resource needed. The advising team is awesome and always have the answers needed to guide the learner. The key is not wasting time and focus.
Review Date: 5/31/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Texas A&M Commerce provides the convenience of an online program with the support and affordability that one would find in small community college. The professors are genuinely concerned with the success of their students.
Review Date: 3/14/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
This program is fascinating because it teaches about educational systems through social and historical contexts. We learn about the root social causes of achievement gaps, data analyses and educational philosophies. Classes also are applicable to organizational change whether it is in education or not. The classes are interesting and manageable. Teachers are insightful, helpful and approachable. This is a cheap graduate program! UNM is ok too...
Review Date: 8/25/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The online Graduate Education and Leadership Master's program at St. Thomas University FL is extraordinary in that every class is a five week course and completion of the program is approximately 14 months. The instructors are experienced top of the line professors with extensive experience in their specialty and the participation by each student is exceptional. The work is intense and very challenging and I am extremely happy I chose this excellent program for my graduate studies.
Review Date: 7/17/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes