masters degree in educational management

Education Leadership (online)

Graduate Program

The Master’s in Education (Ed.M.) prepares students with the skills needed to change the world through education. The online Master’s in Education Leadership is a part-time, two-year Ed.M. program from the Harvard Graduate School of Education with Higher Education and PreK-12 pathways. The program is specifically designed for mid-career working education professionals and is career-embedded—so students can immediately apply what they are learning. Through this program, students will strengthen the invaluable skills they’ve already developed and develop the tools to propel themselves to new leadership opportunities and to even greater impact.

Education Leadership, Organizations, and Entrepreneurship

Contact Information

Connect with program staff.

If you have program-specific questions, please contact ELOE Assistant Director  Karen Bottari .

• Connect with Admissions

If you have admissions-related questions, please email [email protected] .

Admissions Information

• Application Requirements
• Tuition and Costs
• International Applicants
• Recorded Webinars
• Download Brochure

Develop the tools to lead with impact and strategic vision, manage change, and nurture thriving, equity-focused organizations across today’s complex learning landscape. 

Whether you seek to manage a complex organization or team, launch an entrepreneurial venture, or drive an initiative that sparks new possibilities within an existing school, district, or network, the Education Leadership, Organizations, and Entrepreneurship (ELOE) Program at the Harvard Graduate School of Education will help you become an effective, strategic, and innovative leader within the field. Our program prepares you with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions to lead with impact in diverse roles, including preK–12, higher education, the nonprofit sector, government, and philanthropy. With a focus on change management, organizational leadership, and entrepreneurial principles, this program equips you to envision, enact, scale, and transform. For individuals who want to expand their preK––12 school leadership skills, ELOE offers the optional School Leadership Pathway , which includes a Principal Licensure option.

“So many people hear the word ‘organization’ and think ‘business.’ But students who want to improve education and become education leaders – either at the school level, state level, or national level – have to understand how schools work. Recognizing the importance of organizational dynamics, the role of leaders, and the potential impact of entrepreneurship, is critical, and these concepts are at the heart of our program.” Ebony Bridwell-Mitchell Faculty Co-Chair

The ELOE Program will help students prepare to lead for impact — to bring greater access, equity, agency, and excellence to education. The program is centered on the core belief that a connected, collaborative, and committed community of students, supported by faculty experts, and guided by the ELOE program model, will successfully transform the field of education across a variety of sector roles and careers. The program's curriculum is anchored in five core competencies:

• Lead change and think strategically 
• Foster productive organizational conditions 
• Navigate politics and practice political inclusion   
• Communicate effectively 
• Develop self and others 

Curriculum Information

The ELOE Program is designed to provide a set of scaffolded learning experiences helping students to grow along the five ELOE core competencies , gaining the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed to have impact in professional roles as education leaders, organizational innovators, and entrepreneurs. A minimum of 42 credits are required to graduate with an Ed.M. degree from HGSE.

The main elements of this academic year curriculum are: 

• This program commences with How People Learn, an immersive online course that runs June–July and requires a time commitment of 12–15 hours per week.
• You will continue Foundations with Leading Change, Evidence, and Equity and Opportunity on campus in August. 
• Your Equity and Opportunity Foundations experience culminates in an elected course, which will take place during terms when electives are available.

To fulfill the program requirement, students must take a minimum of 12 credits specific to ELOE, including the following:

• The ELOE Program Core Experience (4 credits) is aimed at helping students explore and expand their understanding of the program’s core competencies in relation to their personal and professional goals.
• ELOE Course Distribution List (a minimum of 8 credits), which is a curated set of courses specializing in one or more of the ELOE core competencies. At least one selected course must fall on the ELOE continuum of field-based learning . There are over 80 distribution courses to choose from, which cover subject matter including leading organizations; education sector nonprofits; educational innovation, social entrepreneurship; and race, equity, and leadership.
• The remaining credits are taken via elective coursework , which includes the opportunity to specialize in a Concentration  if you are not pursuing the School Leadership Pathway. 

Explore our course catalog . Note, a ll information and courses are subject to change.

School Leadership Pathway and Principal Licensure

There is great demand across the education system for school leaders and principals who are effective – and will help their schools and its students thrive. If you are interested in pursuing leadership and entrepreneurial roles in preK-12 schools and have a minimum of 4 years full-time professional experience in an education setting, you should select the School Leadership Pathway, where you will also have the option to apply to the Principal Licensure strand. As part of the School Leadership Pathway, you will participate in an intensive internship with the support of an experienced mentor and a distinguished leader coach, while also building a strong leadership network and the necessary skills to lead and implement change. Learn more about the School Leadership Pathway and Principal Licensure option.

Program Faculty

Students will work closely with faculty associated with their area of study, but students can also work with and take courses with faculty throughout HGSE and Harvard.  View our faculty directory for a full list of HGSE faculty.

Faculty Co-Chairs

Ebony N. Bridwell-Mitchell

Ebony Bridwell-Mitchell’s research is on leadership, management, and organizations, exploring how organizational factors affect the success of public school reform. 

Jennifer Perry Cheatham

Jennifer Cheatham focuses on leading for equity and transformational change in urban school districts, with expertise that includes creating instructional coherence and cultivating strong teams.

Uche B Amaechi

Bianca J. Baldridge

Whitney Benns

Candice Bocala

Kathryn Parker Boudett

Elizabeth City

Sarah Dryden-Peterson

Hadas Eidelman

Liya Escalera

Shawn Ginwright

Debbie Heller Goldstein

Houman Harouni

Monica C. Higgins

James P. Honan

Angela Jackson

Raquel Lynne Jimenez

Lisa Laskow Lahey

Jaein Josefina Lee

Richard J. Light

Karen L. Mapp

Timothy Patrick McCarthy

Richard Melvoin

Sebastian Munoz-Najar Galvez

Mary Grassa O'Neill

Gabrielle Oliveira

Francesca Purcell

Alexis Redding

Fernando Reimers

Paul Reville

Irvin Leon Scott

Lynette Nicole Tannis

Gillien Sarah Todd

Christina "V" Villarreal

Career Pathways

The ELOE Program prepares you for a variety of career pathways, including:

• Education nonprofit leadership and management
• Education entrepreneur/organization founder
• College or university administrator
• School or district/network leader
• Educational advocate and organizer
• Public official, administrator, city, state and federal government
• Education consultant, technical assistance and direct service provider
• Media, communications and public relations

Cohort & Community

The ELOE experience is not only about strengthening knowledge, skills and dispositions but also about building a community of colleagues who can provide support during the program and for years afterwards as you work together to transform the field. The ELOE Program purposefully works to honor and build on the diverse backgrounds and experiences of students — from countries and regions around the world – by providing a varied set of cohort-based, community-building experiences. The aim of these experiences is to build a network of current students and future alumni united by a shared commitment to leading for excellence, equity, and impact in the field of education. In ELOE we are, "One Cohort. One Commitment."  

Applications Are Now Open

The deadline to apply is January 5, 2025.

Program Highlights

Explore examples of the Education Leadership, Organizations, and Entrepreneurship experience and the impact its community is making on the field:

Breaking the Cycle

Alum Aria Mustary's Mai Soli Foundation aims to empower young girls through mentorship, unlock their potential, and shift societal perceptions that lead to child marriage

Truth, Be Told

Why one student’s work to combat media misinformation is personal

King's College London

Educational leadership and management ma.

The King’s Educational Leadership and Management MA is intended for education professionals who aspire to positions of management and leadership in education, and for scholars with an interest in this field. Focused on the challenges faced by educational institutions around the world today, the programme is designed to develop the expertise and critical decision-making capabilities required of those tasked with leading 21st century educational organisations. The programme has relevance across a range of education sectors and provider types, including state, independent and non-profit providers. Participants engage critically with current debates and the latest research to develop their professional understanding of complex real-world problems in the field of education management and leadership.

Key benefits

• Gain your MA from one of the UK’s top-ranking schools of education in one of the world’s most renowned universities.
• Learn first-hand from leading experts with international reputations in the field.
• Develop the expertise required of professionals who lead today’s educational institutions.
• Be part of a community of education specialists joining the programme from countries around the world.
• Situated in the heart of London, within sight of the Houses of Parliament and the culturally vibrant South Bank.

“ What ultimately made up my mind to choose this programme was the curriculum design. The choice of modules offered in this programme is very broad and is interconnected with other programmes in the same faculty. Such a diverse and scientific curriculum design provides me with the opportunity to explore multi-disciplines and capture the research hot topics. ”

• Course essentials
• Entry requirements
• Teaching & structure

Employability

The MA in Educational Leadership and Management will allow you to develop the analytical and problem- solving capabilities that are essential for anyone aspiring to occupy management or leadership roles in education today. Graduates of this course have gone on to posts around the world and across a range of education sectors, from primary/secondary schools through to Further and Higher Education.

Curious to find out more? Access on-demand content including taster lectures and talks, and meet our current staff and students on our subject hub page .  

• Fees & Funding

Application closing date guidance

We encourage you to apply as early as possible so that there is sufficient time for your application to be assessed. We may need to request further information from you during the application process.

King's College London is committed to the recruitment of students with the greatest academic ability and to maintain a diverse student population. In order to ensure a balanced international student population for our most competitive programmes, we have implemented the following deadlines:

For applicants who are currently residing in mainland China, the first application deadline is 10 January 2025 (23:59 UK time).

• We highly encourage you to apply by this deadline due to high demand, but applications will continue to be reviewed thereafter until the final application deadline on 9 March 2025 (23:59 UK time).
• If you reside in mainland China and apply for this programme after the above final deadline, your application may be automatically withdrawn and you will not be eligible for an application fee refund.

For all other applicants, our first application deadline is on 9 March 2025 (23:59 UK time). The final application deadlines for this programme are:

• Overseas (international) fee status: 25 July 2025 (23:59 UK time)
• Home fee status: 25 August 2025 (23:59 UK time)

After the first application deadline in March:

• if the programme is not yet full, we will continue to accept applications until all available places are filled up to the final application deadlines above
• if the programme becomes full before the final application deadlines stated above, we will close the programme to further applications

Please note, you will not be eligible for an application fee refund if you apply after the first application deadline, and we are unable to process further offers because places are filled and we close the course before the final application deadline.

• How to apply
• Register your interest
• Chat to a student
• Order a prospectus

Related departments

• Faculty of Social Science & Public Policy
• School of Education, Communication & Society

Open days and events

Chat with current students and King's staff to find out about the courses we offer, life at King's and ask any questions you may have.

Explore more

Find out more about our King's accommodation

Discover your accommodation options and explore our residences.

Connect with a King’s Advisor

Want to know more about studying at King's? We're here to help.

Learning in London

King's is right in the heart of the capital.

• Master's in Public Education Management

Master’s Degree in Public Education Management

Developing visionary leaders for urban schools, students and communities.

The Master’s in Public Education Management gives highly motivated, accomplished K-12 education professionals the skills and broad perspective to grow as education leaders who make real, lasting impact for students and families. Master's students keep equity and excellence at the forefront of their work while turning persistent challenges over in a new way.

The Master’s in Public Education Management  is a 14-month, tuition-free program leading to a master of management studies degree. The program is designed for early- to mid-career school system leaders with extraordinary leadership potential who wish to increase their impact in key K-12 systems. Offered in modules accessible to working professionals, the Master's program allows students to earn a Master of Management Studies while working full-time in large, urban school systems. Students immediately apply practical classroom learning to their real-world work environment. Cohorts leverage the knowledge and support of their classmates, as well as SOM faculty, to sustain meaningful initiatives and have ongoing impact in their systems. 

Applications for the Master's in Public Education Management are open! 

Share a candidate you recommend with The Broad Center at Yale SOM.

Learn about the benefits of a staff member participating in the Master's program.

Through a small cohort size, supportive culture, and emphasis on working together toward a shared mission, Master's students learn as much from each other as they do in the classroom. 

Students in the program bring wide-ranging expertise to the cohort. Whether they hold functional roles in finance, talent, operations, or strategy, students are intellectually curious and eager to re-frame issues with a new perspective. Participants work in public school districts, charter network organizations, and state education agencies across the country with a common vision to serve the interests of America’s students and families. The Broad Center at Yale SOM strives to recruit and develop cohorts of leaders who are committed to providing equitable and excellent outcomes for all students. Bringing together committed education professionals with their own unique experiences in a shared space allows for peer learning not only in terms of practices and theories, but also of lived experiences.

Learn from Yale experts, education trailblazers, and your classmates to develop the skills and vision you need to maximize your leadership impact on K-12 systems.  

The curriculum will build strong functional management skills that are necessary to successfully lead complex organizations, including operations, data analysis, finance, accounting, performance measurement, organization design, human capital development, innovation, and technology. Students will also explore stakeholder perspectives to understand the interaction of schools, students, teachers, parents and caregivers, communities, boards, administrators, and unions, among other stakeholders invested in educational outcomes. The course of study asks students to reflect on the power of public education to serve as a critical lever for a society invested in diversity, equity and inclusion. 

Application Information

The application for the 2025-26 cohort is now open. If you are interested in applying, please  check out our admissions page for information about candidate eligibility; traits and characteristics of strong applicants; application process; and requirements. 

Our Community

The Broad Center at the Yale School of Management is located in New Haven, Connecticut, a place rich with history, culture, and community. Approximately 20 square miles with nearly 130,000 residents, New Haven has been called a “city of neighborhoods,” each with residential, shopping and recreation areas and distinctive histories. The city has a thriving arts and music scene, as well as a growing array of small businesses that are deeply connected to city residents and to the Yale community. New Haven is a hub for innovation, not only in business, but also in education. The New Haven Public School District has a population of over 20,000 students and remains one of the largest School Choice Programs in the State of Connecticut. 

Our home city is convenient to Boston and New York with easy access from Philadelphia and Washington. Yale SOM is located at 165 Whitney Avenue in New Haven, Connecticut, at the north east corner of Yale University’s campus. During program sessions, accommodation will be provided to students in the cohort at a hotel in downtown New Haven, just steps from the heart of Yale University, the New Haven Town Green, and museums, restaurants, and shopping. 

Your Classroom

As a student at Yale SOM, you will benefit from a facility tailored to maximize the strengths of our program. The 242,000-square-foot Edward P. Evans Hall, designed by Foster + Partners, chaired by Lord Norman Foster ARCH ’62, features classrooms designed to encourage discussion as well as breakout rooms and other communal spaces designed to support working with teams. The transparency of the overall design combined with social spaces positioned at significant hubs strengthen the sense of community.

Community Blog

Inaugural Broad Seminar Connects Education Scholars with Public School Leaders

The Broad Center Announces 2024-25 Cohort of the Fellowship for Public Education Leadership

The Broad Center Congratulates the Master’s in Public Education Management Class of 2024

Best Online Master's in Educational Administration Programs

These are the best online master’s programs in educational administration and supervision for educators to continue learning in areas including school law, curriculum design, leadership styles and group dynamics. Professionals who finish these programs can work as principals and instructional supervisors in elementary through high school settings. Read the Best Online Programs Methodology  »

• Clear Filters

Michigan State University

East Lansing , MI

#1 in Educational Administration Programs

#7 in Education Programs (tie)

At Michigan State University, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Ninety-one percent of students are... Read more

Arizona State University

Phoenix , AZ

#2 in Educational Administration Programs

At Arizona State University, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Ninety-two percent of students are... Read more

University of Florida

Gainesville , FL

#3 in Educational Administration Programs

#2 in Education Programs (tie)

At University of Florida, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Ninety-three percent of students are... Read more

University of Virginia

Charlottesville , VA

#4 in Educational Administration Programs

At University of Virginia, a public institution, the majority of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Seventy-one percent of students... Read more

Florida State University

Tallahassee , FL

#5 in Educational Administration Programs (tie)

#30 in Education Programs (tie)

At Florida State University, a public institution, the majority of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Ninety-one percent of students... Read more

Indiana University--Bloomington

Bloomington , IN

#45 in Education Programs (tie)

At Indiana University--Bloomington, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Ninety-seven percent of students... Read more

University of Georgia

Athens , GA

#15 in Education Programs (tie)

At University of Georgia, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Eighty-eight percent of students are... Read more

University of Wisconsin--Madison

Madison , WI

#10 in Education Programs (tie)

At University of Wisconsin--Madison, a public institution, the majority of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Forty-six percent... Read more

Clemson University (Moore)

Clemson , SC

#9 in Educational Administration Programs (tie)

#1 in Education Programs

At Clemson University (Moore), a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. The application deadline for online... Read more

Pennsylvania State University--World Campus

University Park , PA

#19 in Education Programs (tie)

At Pennsylvania State University--World Campus, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Ninety-six percent... Read more

Old Dominion University (Darden)

Norfolk , VA

#11 in Educational Administration Programs (tie)

#136 in Education Programs (tie)

At Old Dominion University (Darden), a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. The application deadline for... Read more

Purdue University--Main Campus

West Lafayette , IN

At Purdue University--Main Campus, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. The application deadline for... Read more

Texas A&M University--College Station

College Station , TX

#12 in Education Programs (tie)

At Texas A&M University--College Station, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Eighty-nine percent of... Read more

Auburn University

Auburn , AL

#14 in Educational Administration Programs

At Auburn University, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. The application deadline for online education... Read more

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton , FL

#15 in Educational Administration Programs (tie)

#52 in Education Programs (tie)

At Florida Atlantic University, a public institution, the majority of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. The application deadline... Read more

Montclair State University (College for Education and Engaged Learning)

Montclair , NJ

At Montclair State University (College for Education and Engaged Learning), a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on... Read more

The University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa , AL

At The University of Alabama, a public institution, the majority of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. The application deadline... Read more

University of Arizona

Tucson , AZ

At University of Arizona, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. The application deadline for online education... Read more

University of Kentucky

Lexington , KY

University of Kentucky is a public institution. The application deadline for online education degree programs at University of Kentucky is rolling. Read more

Virginia Commonwealth University

Richmond , VA

At Virginia Commonwealth University, a public institution, the majority of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Seventy-nine percent... Read more

Online Master’s in Educational Administration Programs

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Educational administrators help plan and manage school systems. Administrator tasks may include providing leadership, promoting a safe environment for students, and managing human resources.

An online master’s in educational administration prepares students for relevant roles by teaching trends in education, practical issues, and theories.

You can choose programs that specialize in K-12 or postsecondary positions. Programs may offer a pathway to achieving state licensure.

Continue on to learn more about popular online master’s programs, available licenses, and career paths.

Benefits of a Master’s in Educational Administration

Popular master’s in educational administration online programs.

We chose to highlight the following schools based on several factors, including top position in organic or paid search results (as of October 2023), relevancy of program offerings, and categorization as a nonprofit. These programs are listed alphabetically by school and not weighed against each other in our methodology.

Ball State University (BSU)

• Public university in Indiana
• MA in Education in Educational Administration and Supervision
• 36 credits | $451-676 /credit

Ball State University offers the largest principal preparation program in Indiana. Professors include doctorate-holders and experienced school administrators. Attendees must participate in a six month principal internship at a school within the K-12 levels.

California State University San Marcos (CSUSM)

• Public university in California
• MA in Educational Administration
• 30 credits | $499 /credit

California State University San Marcos’s online master’s in educational administration helps students earn a master’s degree and simultaneously prepare for the Cal APA testing, a requirement for new California school administrators. The program intends to prepare students for California licensure requirements, but does not directly lead to credentials or licensure.

Emporia State University (ESU)

• Public university in Kansas
• MS in Education Administration
• 33 credits | $332 /credit

Emporia State University’s master’s in educational administration online program prepares students for a building-level licensure in Kansas. Students will learn how to evaluate ideas and analyze curriculums. The school also offers a dual accelerated MS in education administration and MS in curriculum and instruction.

University of Kansas (KU)

• MS in Education in Educational Administration
• 36 credits | $595 /credit

The University of Kansas MSE program offers both a licensure and non-licensure track. Enrollees in the licensure program will meet Kansas’s building leadership endorsement requirements. The program offers a unique interactive virtual school software that allows students to simulate real-world learning environments.

University of Tennessee (UTK)

• Public university in Tennessee
• 30 credits | $700-775 /credit

Through its Vols Online program, the University of Tennessee offers an online master’s in educational administration with concentrations in higher education administration and K-12 instructional leadership. The K-12 instructional leadership program offers a licensure and non-licensure track for prospective educators. Enrollees in the licensure track must complete coursework and in-school fieldwork.

Reasons to Get Your Master’s in Educational Administration Online

What is a master’s in educational administration.

Master’s in educational administration programs teach leadership theory, relevant laws, and practical issues to help you pursue administrative roles. Institutions can award different types of degrees for this field, including:

• Master of Arts (MA)
• Master of Education (M.Ed.)
• Master of Science (MS)

The education coursework across these degree types tends to be largely the same, though some programs may have nuanced differences.

For example, an MA program may focus on the theoretical problems and solutions of educational administration, whereas an MS program may focus on the technical understanding of the subject.

Common Courses in Online Master’s in Educational Administration Programs

• School leadership theory
• Educational law and regulations
• Research in education
• Data-driven leadership
• Human resource management
• Special education leadership

How long does an online master’s in educational administration take?

Online master’s in educational administration can take 12-24 months for full-time students and approximately two years for part-time students . Programs usually include 30-36 credits, which may include core, elective, and fieldwork credits. You may have the option to earn a dual degree or specialized concentration within a similar timeframe.

How much does an online master’s in educational administration cost?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average annual tuition and fees for an online master’s degree in education is $8,155 . In contrast, the average annual tuition for graduate degrees across all subjects was $20,513 in the 2021-2022 school year.

Do Online Master’s Degrees in Educational Administration Lead to Licensure?

Master’s in educational administration online programs may offer separate paths for licensure and non-licensure. Licensure track programs attempt to meet state requirements for licensure , which may include specific classes or fieldwork.

Many programs recommend you contact local licensure boards before signing up for a program, to ensure that program meets specific state’s licensure requirements. You may need official testing before obtaining licensure, but not to graduate the program.

Licensure Tracks for Popular Online Master’s in Educational Administration Programs

• PK-12 building-level administration and supervision license
• Preliminary Administrative Services Credential
• Kansas building-level license
• Kansas building leadership license
• K-12 Tennessee education licensure

Does Accreditation Matter for Online Educational Administration Master’s Programs?

Before applying to any online master’s program, you should always confirm that the institution is accredited , which demonstrates that it meets a certain standard of education.

Institutional accreditation is required if you plan on receiving federal financial aid . You may be unable to transfer credits or pursue further graduate studies if you earned your master’s degree from an unaccredited college or university.

Programmatic accreditation differs from institutional accreditation in that it extends only to a specific program or department within an institution. For education-related programs, this type of accreditation serves as an additional marker of high quality, though it is not necessarily a requirement.

The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) are the main programmatic accreditors for master’s in educational administration online programs.

What Can You Do With a Master’s in Educational Administration?

Since your skills will be most appropriate for working with students and faculty, you can pursue various administrative roles at the K-12 or postsecondary level, including assistant principal, principal, director of admissions, and dean.

But it’s a broad enough degree that can also apply to other fields. Education administrators can work in human resources , facilities management, and even public relations — all of which could benefit from your degree’s experience and knowledge.

Note that some career paths, such as those in the K-12 public school system, may require teaching experience and a state-issued license to practice.

Is a Master’s in Educational Administration Worth It?

If you have a passion for education and wish to pursue an administrative role in the field, an online master’s in educational administration program may be worth the time and effort.

Specific administrative or leadership roles, such as school principal, may require a master’s degree. This degree can also open doors to other potentially lucrative education careers , such as school district superintendent, and serve as a stepping stone into a doctoral program in education .

You can also use the program to meet state licensure requirements. If you plan on obtaining licensure in your state, a master’s degree can offer a fixed curriculum and help you meet your goal.

Page last reviewed October 17, 2023. The programs highlighted on this page were preselected by the BestColleges Team. The review of this content by Samantha Fecich, Ph.D., does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of the aforementioned programs.

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Updated September 9, 2024

College of Professional Studies

Higher education administration.

The Master of Education in Higher Education Administration program provides the theoretical foundation combined with the real-world application of skills graduates need to achieve and excel in mid-level and leadership roles across higher education.

The Master of Education in Higher Education Administration program is designed to provide working professionals with the foundation to understand the structure, governance, and operation of various higher education organizations—integrating opportunities for students to discuss current trends and issues in higher education. Through the Northeastern Graduate School of Education’s commitment to practitioner preparation and experiential learning, the program brings core theoretical knowledge to current challenges, preparing students to navigate the fast-changing world of higher education.

The curriculum is completed 100% online and enables learners to connect with diverse professionals from around the world—creating opportunities to build professional networks that help solve common challenges found in their professional context.

More Details

Unique features.

• Students and alumni of the program are invited to participate in the Graduate School of Education residency poster session, a networking opportunity where attendees exchange ideas on innovation and change work in the field.
• Senior leaders in higher education contributed to the design of the program curriculum and provided input around in-demand skills they look for in new hires, providing our program industry validation and credibility.
• The program's curriculum is intentionally designed to include DEI coursework in subject matter areas such as social justice and demographics of the new college student. Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to learn about Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU’s), Tribal Colleges, and the pressing need for all-women colleges.
• Becoming part of the Northeastern Graduate School of Education connects you to a network of leaders in education—through renowned faculty and distinguished alumni. Students participate in the Graduate School of Education summer convening to connect and be inspired by fellow students and faculty.
• Through the required capstone course, students work with a “problem” within higher education for six weeks. Throughout this time, students conduct in-depth research on the topic of interest and present their findings to two to three mid- and senior-level practitioners who then provide insight on the issue. Students also have the opportunity to perform a mock interview with a practitioner in the field and are given guidance—and sometimes land jobs right on the spot. Students are then prompted to write a reflection piece at the end of the course and are encouraged to map out a life-long learning plan.

Program Objectives

• Examine law and policy regulations within a higher education context
• Analyze, generate, and propose innovative solutions to contemporary issues in higher education, driven by data and applied theory
• Integrate principles of social justice and inclusion for concrete actions in higher education
• Articulate methods to continuously hone and upgrade professional skills in key higher education competencies
• Effectively present ideas through multiple mediums for targeted audiences in higher education administration

Career Outlook

• Graduates of the program can work in a multitude of institutions, such as research universities, community colleges, public colleges and universities, liberal arts colleges, or higher education agencies.
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–jenny mitchell, med graduate, –alex fronduto, assistant teaching professor, –lydia young, associate teaching professor, looking for something different.

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern—a top-ranked university—can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in the area of your interest. Apply now—and take your career to the next level.

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Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

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*International deadlines are only applicable if the program is F1 compliant.

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers.

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

View curriculum

The MEd in Higher Education Administration has a strong foundation in experiential learning, offering ways for students to apply theory to practice through the Experiential Network (XN) or case studies. XN facilitates opportunities for students to work on short-term, real-world projects to complement their academic work. Students have worked on XN projects, including:

• Disability and Access Services for First-Year Students
• Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD)–guide to enrolling higher education disability services
• The Impact of COVID-19 on the Mental Health of First-Generation Students
• Northeastern University Office of Employer Engagement and Career Design–career resources for female-identifying students
• Racial Injustice in Graduate Education:  Towards Equal Opportunity for URM Students

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Mounira Morris

Joan Giblin

Alex Fronduto

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll be connected to students at our 13 campuses, as well as 300,000-plus alumni and more than 3,500 employer partners around the world. Our global university system provides you with unique opportunities to think locally and act globally and serves as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

Below is a look at where our Education & Learning alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.

Where They Work

• Tufts University
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• Northeastern University
• The City University of New York
• Bottom Line
• Harvard University

What They Do

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• Enrollment Management
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• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
• College Advising

What They're Skilled At

• Public Speaking
• Problem Solving
• Critical Thinking

Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on  Linkedin .

Related Articles

How to Develop Leadership Skills for Careers in Higher Education

The Importance of Diversity in Higher Education

Professional Development Opportunities in Education

Educational Leadership and Management MA

Ranking 3rd in the REF Ranking details

Campus Birmingham (Edgbaston)

Delivery format In person

Start date September 2025

Duration 1 year

Award Master of Arts

Entry requirements A 2:1 or above (or international equivalent) Bachelor's degree is required. Full requirements

Fees £10,900 (full-time) Fee details

Page contents

Course overview.

Level up your career with our Education Leadership and Management Masters degree. Develop the specialist knowledge and skills you need to drive change and innovation in educational practice.

Whether you're an experienced practitioner, a determined policymaker, or a curious researcher ready to kick-start your career, we'll give you the tools to put your learning into practice in the real world. With a thorough grounding in key education theories, policies, and practices, we'll prepare you to lead change in the classroom, in schools and in other educational settings, produce world-leading research, and create evidence-based policies.

Course structure

This course will run over 12 months in a full-time mode.

Course highlights

Join our top-ranked School of Education and be part of a vibrant learning community. Our MA Educational Leadership and Management programme activates your potential with a diverse curriculum covering leadership, management to support school improvement, regulation and policy implementation, education in international settings, special educational needs and inclusion, and social justice. Graduates are prepared for a rewarding career in education or research.

• Integrated Diverse Learning: Combines cutting-edge educational theory with specialisms in contemporary disciplines.
• Learn from the Best: Be taught by leading researchers in our Top 5 ranked School of Education.
• Innovative Teaching: Gain a diverse set of skills through lectures, seminars, and online tools with mixed learning assessment methods.

Our School of Education is ranked 3rd in the UK for its 4* research in the REF

Course delivery

Our Education Leadership and Management Master's degree goes beyond theoretical learning and research. We focus on critical analysis and evidence-based learning, enabling new and aspiring education leaders to deliver change in their institutions and beyond.

• Lecture - Academics give organised talks to large groups of students who take notes.
• Seminar - Small group sessions designed to complement lectures and are generally more informal in nature. They give you the chance to discuss issues with fellow students and allow for more interaction than a traditional lecture.
• Workshop - Workshops are for smaller groups, but instead of discussion, students might learn about a tool or a technique that they will be required to know about for their course. They are usually more hands-on learning that allows discussion regarding the given topic.
• Online Materials – You will have access to a wide range of state of the art learning materials online and you can interact with your instructor and your peers in collaborative online learning spaces.

Module information

The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Any optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.

The following modules must be taken.

You need to choose a further two 20 credit modules from the list below (one from semester one and one from semester two)

Entry requirements

To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

English Presessional Programmes

Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.

Fees and scholarships

Application process.

Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.

Application deadline for international students requiring a visa. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.

Career opportunities

Our MA Educational Leadership and Management proramme will equip you for an exciting range of careers in education leadership and institutional management. You will be in an ideal position to transform the future improvement and overall performance of your school, having learnt to use research and evidence to develop new, and in some cases challenge, educational practices. With a strong focus on connecting research to practice, this course also enables ambitious researchers to pursue further study on a PhD programme.

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Benefits Of A Master's Degree In Educational Leadership

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What is educational leadership?

Education leaders play a critical, powerful role in learning. It is their responsibility to ensure students receive the educational foundation they need to achieve personal and professional growth—growth that can deeply influence the rest of their lives. Educational leadership transcends basic management functions. Educators in leadership positions establish, maintain, and oversee the directions of schools and staff them with the best-qualified teachers. With these school leader's unique understanding of educators' concerns and challenges, these learning leaders serve as mentors to teachers, providing them the support they need to perform their best so that ultimately students can excel. Educational leaders also build strong relationships between schools, teachers, students, parents, and the overall community. 

Professional roles in educational leadership include principal and assistant principal positions at the elementary and secondary school level; superintendent positions at the district level; and multiple postsecondary education administrator roles at colleges and universities. Specific educational and professional requirements must be met before stepping into any type of educational leadership role. Online programs such as an educational leadership master’s degree can prepare teachers who want to transition into leadership roles. This leadership degree helps aspiring education administrators meet minimum requirements and prepare them for certifications they need to become, for instance, a school principal or school district superintendent. Beyond earning a master’s degree and completing certifications, those pursuing educational leadership roles should also have a solid foundation of nonacademic skills. As reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , the most important of these include:

Communication skills

Critical-thinking skills

Decision-making skills

Interpersonal skills

Leadership skills

Problem-solving skills

Also, it’s critical that school leaders be confident in all these skills because they will apply them daily in interactions with fellow administrators, teachers, students, and parents. 

What are career opportunities in educational leadership?

A master’s degree in educational leadership paves the way for multiple exciting career options. Here are a few of them along with a selection of their typical responsibilities. 

Elementary, middle or high school principal. 

Manage school activities and staff, including teachers and support personnel

Establish and oversee class schedules in a leadership capacity

Develop, implement, and maintain curriculum and learning standards

Counsel and discipline students

Observe teaching and evaluate teacher performance

Meet with parents and teachers to discuss students’ progress and behavior

Assess and prepare learning reports on test scores and other student achievement data

Organize professional development programs and workshops for staff

Manage the school’s budget, order school supplies, and schedule maintenance

Establish and coordinate security procedures for students, staff, and visitors

School district superintendents

Serve as chief executive officer, responsible for the academic achievement of a district

Lead big-picture educational goals for the district 

Manage administrators, programs, budgets, resources, and a variety of other high-level tasks

Foster and manage relationships with government agencies and other stakeholders

Instructional coordinator

Develop and implement curriculums

Plan, organize, and conduct teacher training, conferences, or workshops

Analyze students’ test data

Recommend teaching techniques and the use of different or new technologies

Develop procedures for teachers to implement a curriculum

Train teachers and other instructional staff in new content or programs

Mentor or coach teachers to improve their skills

Postsecondary education administrator

This general title encompasses several positions at college or university, including leadership roles in admissions, the registrar’s office, student affairs, and as provosts/academic deans. 

Admissions 

Recruit prospective students 

Review applications to determine which students should be admitted

Analyze data about applicants and admitted students

Provosts/academic deans (also known as chief academic officers) 

Help college presidents develop academic policies

Participate in making faculty appointments and tenure decisions

Oversee faculty research 

Coordinate activities of individual colleges or schools

Registrars 

Maintain student and course records

Schedule course offerings

Oversee student registration for classes

Prepare transcripts and diplomas for students

Student affairs

Advise students on housing, personal problems, or academics

Communicate with parents or guardians

Create, support, and assess nonacademic programs for students

Schedule programs and services, such as athletic events or recreational activities

Job advancement opportunities.

While a master’s degree can put you on the path to increased career potential, it can also increase your professional credibility if you are already working in the field as a teacher or other educational leader. A master’s program in educational leadership includes (but is not limited to) the following curriculum that will prepare you for career advancement in an education setting. 

Foundations and ethics

School financial leadership

Curriculum design and instruction

Systems management and school operations

Data literacy and evidence-based practices

Cultural competency and social-emotional learning

Job growth and stability.

The BLS projects a 4% growth in education administrator jobs by 2029. The demand for these positions is attributable to the following factors: 

More education administrators like principals and superintendents are needed to serve the needs of additional students

Additional admissions officers will be needed to process students’ applications

Registrars will be needed to direct student registration for classes and ensure that they meet graduation requirements

Student affairs workers will be needed to make housing assignments and plan events for students

Current school administrators retiring soon, leaving their positions open

Job perks and benefits.

For the most part, education administrators earn comfortable salaries and enjoy great perks and benefits such as health and life insurance, retirement plans, and flexible spending accounts. Depending on the institution or district they serve, they may also receive professional development assistance and loan forgiveness benefits. If they work at a university, they may receive access to campus facilities and tuition waivers or a discount on courses. Education administrators and principals in public schools, at every level, tend to receive great healthcare benefits from the government. 

Other benefits may include: 

Prescription drug insurance

Commuter assistance

Accidental death and dismemberment insurance

Disability insurance

Paid time off and family leave 

Wellness program

Why is educational leadership important?

Education is a hot-button issue in the U.S., largely due to the emotionally delicate nature that comes with developing young minds and helping people prosper. Leaders in education are brave navigators of our vast, often complex educational system. They are ready to face inevitable challenges because having a direct impact on a student’s future is, in a word, everything to them. 

Working with students and helping them reach their potential is one of the most meaningful and rewarding professions there is. If you have the courage to stand up for what’s right in education, have a vision and want to share it, and have the utmost respect for faculty, parents, and students, then you are definitely onto the right career. WGU can help you in your pursuit to become an education leader. Get started today!  

Ready to Start Your Journey?

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6 reputable Russian universities offering Master’s programs in English

1. Lomonosov Moscow State University 

THE 189, QS 84, ARWU 87

Founded in 1755, Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU) is the oldest and one of the largest universities in the country. It offers a variety of educational programs and is considered to be one of the most prestigious universities among Russian youth. Prospective students can choose from a range of Master’s programs in English.

For instance, there is an opportunity to major in “The Global Order: Transformations and Challenges” and learn not only from Russian professors, but also those from the U.S., Canada, Germany, Italy, and Sweden.

Or you can apply to “Advanced Computing and Networks”, taught jointly by MSU and Skoltech (Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology), and become a specialist in the intersection of computer networks, design of complex distributed systems, data processing and analysis, and machine learning.

Furthermore, there are some programs that offer a joint Master’s with foreign universities, such as “Master in Mathematical Science”, with the University of Primorska in Koper, Slovenia and “Globalisation, Governance and International Understanding”, together with Link Campus University in Rome, Italy.

More info:   https://www.msu.ru/en/admissions/programs-in-english.php

2. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (MIPT) 

THE 201-250, QS 302, ARWU 401-500

One of the leading Russian universities in the fields of physics and technology, MIPT, was established in 1951, and has produced many leading Russian scientists, including over 80 members of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Its first professors were Nobel Prize winners Pyotr Kapitsa, Nikolay Semenov and Lev Landau.

If you are interested in mathematics or engineering, this might be the place for you. The university has a number of Master’s programs taught in English only: from “Advanced Combinatorics” and “Neural Networks & Neural Computers” to “Aerodynamics” and “Industrial Bioinformatics”. Moreover, there are programs in Innovation and Business, namely, “Master of International Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology” and “Master in Digital Transformation”.

More info:   https://mipt.ru/english/edu/master/

3. HSE University (Higher School of Economics) 

THE 251-300, QS 322, ARWU 901-1000

Consistently ranked as one of Russia’s top universities, HSE University is a relatively young institution. Founded in 1992, it has rapidly grown into a well-renowned research institution, setting itself apart with its international presence and cooperation network.

HSE faculty, professors, and students hail from over 90 countries, so it’s natural that the university offers a wide array of English-taught graduate programs covering such fields as Computer Science, Economics and Finance, Humanities, Social Sciences, Management, World Economy and International Affairs, Mathematics, Urban Studies, Law, Communications and Media. The choice is rich - from “Big Data Systems” to “Prototyping Future Cities”.

The university has campuses in several Russian cities, including Moscow, each boasting expertise in varying academic fields. For example, there is an opportunity to do “Mathematics”, “Global Business”, or “Applied Linguistics and Text Analytics” in Nizhny Novgorod, or instead major in “Finance”, “Global and Regional History”, “Management and Analytics for Business” or “Comparative Politics of Eurasia” in St. Petersburg.

More info:   https://admissions.hse.ru/en/graduate-apply

4. National Research Nuclear University MEPhI (Moscow) 

THE 401-500, QS 329, ARWU 601-700

Established in the middle of World War II, MEPhI counts “the father of the atomic bomb”, Igor Kurchatov, among its founders. It’s been one of the main centers of Russia’s nuclear research and training, so it’s no surprise that it attracts the most talented youth interested in technical subjects.

Today, it offers several Master’s programs in English. “Nuclear power engineering”, “Materials for Nuclear Application”, “Nuclear Engineering”, and “Materials Design and Engineering” - all invite international candidates with no Russian language skills.

More info:   https://eng.mephi.ru/academics/degrees-and-programs/msc

5. ITMO University 

THE 401-500, QS 436, ARWU 801-900

St. Petersburg-based ITMO University traces its history back to 1900 when the Prince Nicholas Vocational School started to train specialists in Mechanics, Optics and Watchmaking. A lot has happened since then, and today, the university is mainly known for producing world-class IT professionals .

The university has a number of international Master’s programs, many of which are held jointly with partner universities from other countries. You can choose from double degree programs (like “Robotics” or “Bioengineering and Biotechnical Systems”) or study only in Russia, majoring in “Chemistry of Applied Materials” or “Art & Science” - the choice is up to you.

More info:   https://en.itmo.ru/en/page/310/International_Master's_Programs.htm

6. St. Petersburg State University (SPbU)

THE 601-800, QS 234, ARWU 301-400

Founded in 1724 by the decree of Peter the Great, SPbU has had a strong focus on fundamental research in science, engineering and humanities. It’s known for being the alma mater for the majority of Russia's current political elite, including President Vladimir Putin and Deputy Chair of the Security Council, Dmitry Medvedev (former President and Prime Minister of Russia), both of whom studied Law.

SPbU has strong connections with 486 universities from across the world and draws over 3,000 international students every year. Currently, it offers a wide range of Master’s programs in English in such fields as Management, Economics, Mathematics, Physics, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, and Culture Studies.

Apart from doing an English-taught Master’s in “International Trading System” or “Cold Region Environment Landscapes Integrated Science (CORELIS)”, one can even consider enrolling in one of the few linguistic programs available in German, French, Spanish, or Italian. The latter include: “German as a Foreign Language and Intercultural Dialogue”, “Language and Communication (in German)”, “Intercultural Communication: German-Russian Dialogue”, and “Innovative Technologies in Translation: French/ Spanish/ Italian”.

More info:   https://english.spbu.ru/education/graduate/master-in-english  

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