A master’s degree in educational administration can help you make a difference in the lives of young people. It can also open a new path in your career, including roles as a principal or superintendent.
In some instances, districts and schools will pay for teachers’ tuition to continue their education in specialized fields. However, it can be challenging to choose the correct program.
Increased Job Security
Teachers with master’s degrees are considered education experts, and those who complete graduate school can add credibility to their resumes. They’ll also have a strong voice in their schools and districts, and their thoughts will be taken seriously on issues like curriculum choices and student achievement.
Graduate programs in education administration teach students how to manage educational institutions, shape policies, and create cultures of student-centered learning. Depending on your track, your coursework may cover leadership, finance, and curriculum development. Many programs require field experience courses, such as internships and practicum, to give graduates hands-on training. These can be completed in working classrooms and provide a valuable networking opportunity for professionals looking to advance their careers. Moreover, some online programs offer tuition reimbursement options for educators who work in local schools and districts.
Flexibility
An online master’s in educational administrationprogram at Youngstown State University
teaches professionals how to oversee a school system’s many administrative, financial, and human resources tasks. Students learn how to assess standard curricula, create budgets, monitor students’ progress, and work with other educators to ensure that schools are safe and supportive environments where children can grow.
Online programs provide a flexible, customizable learning environment that accommodates the schedules of working professionals. Coursework is typically asynchronous, allowing students to complete assignments on their own time while also having access to expert faculty mentors and advisors. Cohort members support one another throughout the degree program, building a solid professional network that may lead to future opportunities in education leadership. Many programs also feature internship and field experience courses that give students hands-on, real-world experience.
Higher Earnings
A master’s degree paves the way for significant career advancement and higher earnings potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, workers with a bachelor’s degree and one with a graduate degree typically make significantly different salaries.
The right online education administration program can also prepare educators for leadership roles. These positions may be more challenging, but they can provide opportunities for professional development and lead to a rewarding and fulfilling vocation.
Many educational administration programs also connect students to a network of fellow graduates, offering mentoring opportunities and career advice. These connections help degree holders advance their careers and access valuable resources and research on the latest developments in their field. In addition, some programs may offer perks like scholarships and internships that can reduce the cost of an online education.
More Opportunities
A master’s in education administration opens doors to various jobs in higher education. It also signals to employers that you are capable and intelligent. Moreover, the cohort format helps you connect with professionals who could benefit your career.
The curriculum of a degree program can vary, but most programs focus on building administrative skills. For example, coursework may cover educational leadership theory and school systems management. Students are often required to complete field experiences under the guidance of mentor administrators and university supervisors, which allows them to apply and supplement theoretical knowledge with practical experience. The result is that you are better equipped to achieve your short- and long-term goals.
Better Job Satisfaction
If you want to impact student achievement more than just in your classroom, an online master’s in educational administration may be the right path. Administrators work to shape policies, promote the well-being of students and teachers, and foster strong relationships with parents, community members, and other educational institutions to ensure quality education is a top priority.
Online programs offer a flexible curriculum that prepares graduates for primary, secondary, or postsecondary education administrative roles. You’ll learn to assess trends and practices, identify areas of opportunity, and promote positive change. Some graduate programs provide a pathway to achieve state licensure.