If you’re an educator ready for more responsibility, more impact, and more opportunities to lead, an online master’s in education administration can be a smart next step. Whether you’re looking to become a principal, instructional supervisor, or take on more formal leadership in your school or district, this degree can help you move from classroom leader to educational decision-maker in P–12 settings.
Here are seven reasons why pursuing an online education administration degree might be right for you.
1. You’re Already Leading—Now It’s Time to Be Recognized for It
Many teachers already take on leadership roles—mentoring peers, organizing curriculum, or running team meetings. A master’s program gives you the qualifications to turn that informal leadership into formal roles like assistant principal or instructional supervisor. It’s a way to elevate what you’re already doing into something that moves your career forward.
2. You Want to Influence Policy and Practice
If you’ve ever thought, “I could make better decisions if I were in that position,” this is your path to doing just that. Through courses in school law, leadership, and data-driven decision-making, you’ll gain the tools to lead with clarity and confidence—advocating for what your students and teachers truly need.
3. You’re Ready to Explore New Career Paths in Education
An online education administration degree opens doors far beyond the classroom. Graduates often pursue roles like:
- Principal
- Vice Principal
- Assistant Principal
- Supervisor
- Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction
These positions require leadership, vision, and a strong understanding of how schools operate.
According to national data, K–12 education administrators earn a median salary of approximately $104,000/year, with strong and steady demand across school districts.
Whether you want to lead a school, shape curriculum, or support teacher development, this degree prepares you for the next phase of your P–12 education career.
4. You Want to Stay in Education—but Expand Your Impact
You don’t have to leave education to grow your career. Many leaders use this degree to stay connected to schools while taking on roles that shape policy, support staff, and improve systems. It’s about widening your impact without losing your purpose.
5. You Need Flexibility That Works with Your Life
As a full-time educator, your schedule is already packed. That’s why pursuing a master’s in education administration online is so valuable. Online programs let you learn at your pace, on your time—without commuting or sacrificing your current role. The flexibility allows you to move forward professionally without stepping away from your students or responsibilities.
6. You Want Real-World Leadership Skills You’ll Actually Use
This degree isn’t just about theory. You’ll develop the leadership skills administrators rely on daily—evaluating instruction, managing school budgets, navigating legal requirements, and supervising staff.
Courses typically include:
- Instructional Leadership and Supervision
- Curriculum Design and Development for Instructional Leaders
- School Finance and Records
- Law and Ethics for School Leadership
- Change for School Improvement
- Practicum and Seminar Experiences
This mix of academic insight and applied learning ensures you graduate ready to lead with purpose.
To view the full list of courses and official program requirements, visit the Rowan University Academic Catalog.
7. You’re Thinking About the Future—and This Degree Moves You Forward
Schools are evolving, and educational leaders need to be ready. Whether it’s supporting equity, integrating technology, or managing organizational change, this degree prepares you for the challenges ahead. It’s a foundation for sustained leadership in a field that’s always growing.
Why Choose Rowan for Your Online Education Administration Degree?
A Trusted Leader in Online Education—Built for Working Educators
Nationally recognized for delivering high-quality, flexible online programs, Rowan University offers a path forward for professionals who want to advance without pausing their careers. As a top 100 public research university and one of the fastest-growing institutions in the country, Rowan combines academic excellence with career-focused outcomes.
Rowan Online is built on four key pillars that matter most to today’s educators:
- Flexibility: 100% online, asynchronous coursework allows you to learn on your schedule—from anywhere, at any time.
- Affordability: Competitive tuition, financial aid opportunities, and alumni discounts help you earn a respected degree without overextending your budget.
- Career Advancement: Whether you’re aiming for a promotion or preparing for state certification, this program equips you with the skills, credentials, and confidence to lead in P–12 education.
- Quality & Reputation: Rowan delivers the same accredited, high-caliber education online as it does on campus—backed by expert faculty and over a century of excellence in teacher and leader preparation.
“My online experience with Rowan University exceeded expectations. The amount of resources and the amount of availability my professors were able to give was astounding.” —Anna Krizin, Rowan Online graduate
Program-Specific Details
Rowan’s online Master of Arts (MA) in School Administration prepares graduates to be collaborative leaders in P–12 learning environments. This program meets the requirements established by the New Jersey Department of Education for state certification as a public school administrator in positions such as:
- Principal
- Vice Principal
- Assistant Principal
- Supervisor
- Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction
To qualify for the Certificate of Eligibility (C.E.) for the principal endorsement, candidates must also achieve a satisfactory score on the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA).
Teachers in the state of New Jersey may apply through the New Jersey Teacher Outreach Program (NJTOP®), which is designed to make graduate programs from Rowan’s College of Education more accessible to educators in New Jersey school districts.
A Legacy of Leadership
Founded as a teacher’s college in 1923, Rowan has always been rooted in education. Its first-ever degree was in elementary education, and its first doctoral program was a Doctor of Education. That legacy continues to drive Rowan’s commitment to developing the next generation of school leaders.
Take the Next Step Toward Educational Leadership
If you’re ready to lead, advocate, and make a lasting impact in education, Rowan University’s online Master of Arts in School Administration is designed for you. With 100% online, asynchronous coursework, a proven curriculum grounded in real-world leadership, and nearly a century of dedication to educator preparation, Rowan delivers both the flexibility and the credibility you need to advance your career.
You’ll also benefit from a stellar online learning experience, dedicated faculty, and robust student support services—all built to help working professionals succeed from day one.
Want to Learn More First?
Check out these blogs to help you decide:
- Is a Master’s in Education Administration Right for You? – Learn if this degree aligns with your goals—such as becoming a P–12 principal, supervisor, or district leader.
- Online Master’s in School Administration: Everything You Need to Know – Explore program details, career outcomes, and how to become a certified school leader.
When you’re ready, start your application and take your next step with confidence—backed by one of New Jersey’s most trusted names in educator development.