Master’s in School Administration, MA
This affordable master’s in school administration online program offers flexible schedules to help you advance in your career while managing the competing demands of your busy life. It is designed to help you achieve initial certification as a school principal:
Initial Certification, School Principal
The Lindenwood University school principal preparation program is accredited by the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education and the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The College of Education and Human Services is also a member in good standing of the Teacher Education Accreditation Council.
The master’s in school administration online stresses reflective leadership to foster effective schools. Skills taught prepare you to assume leadership roles in instruction, management, supervision of instruction, school administration, and problem solving in a creative and effective manner. To receive the initial principal administration certificate in Missouri, you must hold a valid professional initial teaching certificate and have had two years of teaching experience.
Lindenwood’s online, flexible degrees enable you to balance your personal and professional responsibilities while gaining the analysis skills and valuable insights to pursue careers in business, health care, education, school leadership positions, and more.
Lindenwood University has been continuously accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1921. Take advantage of curriculum accredited by the Commission on Institution of Higher Education and the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
Program at a Glance
2–4 years
Duration
30-33
Credit Hours
$551
Cost per Credit
100%
Online
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Course Spotlight
To effectively apply school leadership in education, you need a holistic master’s in school administration degree that prepares you for all types of academic environments. Courses can teach you how to channel your passion for education and natural leadership abilities into administrative roles that result in dramatic school improvement. Our online master’s in school administrator degree courses include:
- Foundations of Education Administration
- Culminating K-12 Field Experience
- Visionary and Innovative Leadership
- Instructional and Curriculum Leadership in Culturally Responsive Schools
Essential Skills & Insights
Coursework in this master’s in school administration online program covers the following:
- Leader-Educator – approach school leadership from the perspective of an educator to ensure effective support across the school experience – from academic to social and behavioral development of students.
- Creative Problem-Solving – learn to create solutions that offer lasting impacts on outlook for students at the K-12 level.
- Instruction Supervision – gain expertise in overseeing instructional settings as it pertains to implementing successful instructional methods and preparing teachers for curriculum delivery.
- Curriculum Development – oversee the curriculum lifecycle at all stages of development – from design to instructional delivery.
Career Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for an elementary, middle, and high school principal is currently $98,420 per year. Meanwhile, postsecondary education administrators earn an annual median wage of $96,910. There are many types of academic environments that need the skills of qualified school administrators.
Admissions Requirements
To be admitted into the Master of Arts in School Administration graduate program, all students must complete the university admissions process, complete an interview, and meet the following criteria:
- Possess a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Students with a GPA below a 3.0 may have their files reviewed by the director of admissions and the College of Education and Human Services.
- Complete the required graduate coursework, maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Completion of EDU 34100 or EDU 54100 Education of the Exceptional Child, or equivalent.
To receive the initial principal administration certificate in Missouri, students must
- Hold a valid professional initial teaching certificate.
- Have had three years’ teaching experience.
Note: In Missouri, school counselor certificates, speech-language pathologist certificates, etc. are not considered initial teacher certificates.
Tuition Details
The cost per credit hour for this program is $551. Besides being ranked ranked No. 17 on Niche.com’s list of Best Value Colleges in Missouri, we build in unique benefits such as our 20 percent discount per credit hour for returning alumni pursuing their master’s degree.
Transfer Credits
Lindenwood offers a generous transfer policy of up to 9 credits toward your degree completion to further offset tuition costs. This means you can complete your degree in as few as 21 credit hours at Lindenwood—saving you time and money on your education!
Plus, you can personalize your transfer experience through Lindenwood’s Transfer Guides. These guides are part of our articulation partnerships with area community college to help you get the most value from your transfer credit.
Related Programs
Interested in discovering related programs? Explore the following programs to find the best fit for your future:
If you aren’t sure which program is right for you, filling out the form on this page and speaking to a Lindenwood representative is the best way to determine your path forward!
Student & Alumni Spotlight
“Lindenwood has provided me with the opportunity as a young educator to enhance my education and has provided me with the support to pursue a career in administration. Thanks to the rigorous course work and ongoing feedback from professors and advisors I feel prepared for whatever the next steps my career in education holds.”
Alayna Furjes – MA, School Administration Student
“I had a great experience throughout my time at Lindenwood in pursuing my master’s degree. With a full-time job, and a family at home, I could not have done it without the unbelievable support of the Lindenwood teachers and my advisor. They were both challenging and flexible, and I would recommend this program to anyone.”
Phil Brotherton – MA in School Administration, ‘23 Alumnus
Frequently Asked Questions
The length it takes to earn a master’s in school administration depends on the pace of the student and duration of the program. The online school administration degree program at Lindenwood University is designed to be completed in 2-4 years.
Education administration and school administration are related areas of focus. However, education administration is recognized as a broader term that goes beyond academic settings, such as private businesses and government agencies. School administration is primarily focused on improving the functionality of school settings, communicating with the school board, and other responsibilities within academic environments.
Learning to become a reliable leader is essential to effective school administration. The experienced faculty at Lindenwood University emphasize school leadership and interpersonal growth throughout the program. Our goal is to help you graduate with the confidence you need to reach the next level in the field of education.
In general, a master’s degree in educational leadership or educational administration is preferred for a school principal role. At Lindenwood, you can earn your master’s in school administration online to prepare to pursue a role as a K-12 school principal.
Yes, a school principal is a school administrator.
Why Choose Lindenwood University Online?
Since 1832, Lindenwood University has served students worldwide with affordable, high-quality academic programs providing real experience and real success. After nearly 200 years of academic excellence, Lindenwood is committed to a set of core values, including integrity, dedication, excellence, creativity, and community. These values are delivered to our online school administration degree students through innovative education technology and personalized instruction.
Quality
We evolve our online degree programs to reflect the latest in academic research and innovation and to meet the top standards of higher education.
Affordability
We are committed to offering our students studying online low tuition rates on top of multiple ways to save on your education.
Career-Focused
Our programs align curriculum to industry realities from experienced instructors who share real-world insights.
Support
We employ experts who are dedicated to helping our students with financial aid planning, enrollment counseling, tutoring services, and more.
We are committed to helping you succeed.
Throughout each step of your online master’s in school administration degree program, you will receive support. From enrollment and tuition planning to staying on the right track, your support team is there to ensure your success.
Ready to learn more about earning your graduate degree in school administration online? Simply use the quick form on this page to contact our supportive advisors today!