Program Overview
The Master of Science in Education in Educational Administration at the University of Kansas prepares educators for leadership roles in schools and districts across Kansas and beyond. This master’s in education administration program is designed to help experienced educators move into building- and district-level leadership positions, where they can influence school culture, instructional quality, and student achievement.
Through a blend of theory, applied practice, and standards-aligned coursework, the program develops leaders who understand how to manage complex school systems, support teachers, and use data to drive continuous improvement. As a master’s in administration education, the degree emphasizes ethical leadership, collaboration with families and communities, and a deep understanding of educational policy and law.
Designed for working professionals, KU offers flexible learning options, including both an on-campus format and a fully online pathway. The online MSE in education administration option is structured to provide the same rigorous curriculum and faculty expertise as the campus-based experience while offering added flexibility for educators balancing full-time professional responsibilities. Courses are delivered in a format that supports collaboration, interactive learning, and meaningful engagement with faculty and peers.
The online pathway is built to accommodate practicing educators across Kansas and other regions, allowing students to complete coursework while remaining active in their schools and districts. Field-based experiences and internships are integrated into the curriculum to ensure that students in the master’s in education administration program can immediately apply new knowledge and leadership strategies in real-world settings.
With expert faculty, hands-on learning experiences, and a curriculum aligned with state and national leadership standards, this degree sets the foundation for a rewarding career in school leadership.
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For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Master's in Educational AdministrationKU School of Education and Human Sciences
The Master of Science in Education in Educational Administration is part of the School of Education and Human Sciences, preparing educators and human science professionals of the future.Master’s in Education Administration Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the master’s in education administration program—whether completing the campus-based or MSE in education administration pathway—will be able to:
- Demonstrate leadership practices grounded in ethical decision-making and professional standards for school administrators.
- Apply knowledge of educational law, policy, and governance to real-world school and district contexts.
- Use multiple sources of data to inform instructional improvement, resource allocation, and school-wide decision-making.
- Design and sustain inclusive school environments that promote equity, student achievement, and community engagement.
- Lead organizational change initiatives that support continuous school improvement.
What Careers are Possible with a Master’s in Education Administration?
Graduates with a master’s in education administration are prepared for leadership roles in K–12 schools and district systems. Career opportunities include:
- School Principal or Assistant Principal – Oversee school operations, instructional leadership, and student success.
- District Administrator – Develop policies, manage district-level resources, and support multiple schools.
- Instructional Coordinator or Curriculum Director – Lead curriculum development and professional learning initiatives.
- Educational Policy or Leadership Roles – Contribute to education improvement efforts at the local or state level.
According to data reported by Lightcast, leadership roles in education continue to require advanced preparation in administration, data use, and policy implementation. A master’s in education administration can position graduates for increased responsibility and advancement within school systems.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU provides competitive tuition rates and financial aid options to support graduate students. Scholarships, grants, and assistantships may be available.
For information on tuition rates, financial aid opportunities, and how to apply for financial assistance, please visit KU Financial Aid.
Admission Requirements
To apply for the master’s in education administration, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Applicants must have 3-5 years of teaching experience in a state-accredited school while holding a professional level teaching license.
- Official transcripts of all degree-granting post-secondary institutions you have attended and an official transcript for each degree earned.
- Personal statement declaring your interest in the program and its relationship to your graduate course or study and/or career objectives.
- One letter of recommendation from a current supervisor.
- Current resume or CV.
For detailed information on the application process, please visit KU Graduate Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
Students in KU’s master’s in education administration benefit from a supportive and professionally focused learning community, whether completing coursework on campus or through the online format.
For students in the online MSE in education administration pathway, coursework is delivered in a structured format that supports interaction with faculty and peers while accommodating the schedules of working educators. Online students engage in collaborative discussions, applied projects, and leadership case studies designed to connect theory to practice. The program integrates supervised field experiences and internships that allow students to demonstrate leadership competencies in their own school settings.
On-campus students benefit from in-person collaboration, direct engagement with faculty researchers, and participation in university-wide professional development events.
Master’s in Education Administration Sample Courses
KU’s master’s in education administration curriculum blends leadership theory, policy analysis, and applied practice to prepare students for school leadership roles. Sample courses include:
- School Resource Management
- Data-Driven Leadership in Education
- Educational Law and Ethics
- Instructional Leadership for Student Success
For a full list of courses, visit the KU Catalog.
Master’s in Education Administration Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications deadlines for each term are:
Spring semester: Jan. 6 Summer semester: May 14 Fall semester: Aug. 13
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in two years.
Is the degree available remote and on campus?
The degree is available on-campus or online