Topics to Consider: Earning your Master’s in Education Administration Online

If you’re interested in advancing your education career and are drawn to leadership, you can make a positive impact campus-wide with a master’s in administration. This M.Ed. degree can lead to a rewarding career as a principal or assistant principal.

As a teacher, you already wear a lot of hats. You manage your students, support them to succeed, teach the curriculum and work with parents and administrators. A principal manages teachers, supports them to succeed, sets school policies, and also works with parents and administrators. In other words, the skills you’ve developed as a teacher will translate to the principal role. With a master’s in educational administration, you’ll gain the remaining knowledge and experience you need to successfully transition from the classroom to the principal’s office.

Earning your M.Ed. in administration online is a great option. It’s flexible, convenient and often less expensive than on-campus programs. If you’re curious about learning online, applying for financial aid or preparing for principal certification, follow the links below.

About the Degree

Principal Certification

Field Experience Hours

Career & Salary

Tuition & Financial Aid

Investing Your Time

Learning Online

Why Lamar University?

What Is a Master of Education in Administration?

Any M.Ed. is an advanced degree in an educational field. M.Ed. degree programs and concentrations, however, are diverse. They range from counseling to teaching English as a special language, and digital learning to special education. Each program will lead to a different career path.

A degree in administration, like Lamar University’s Master of Education in Administration online, prepares you for an educational leadership role as a principal or assistant principal. Whether you’re interested in working for a public, private or charter school, you’ll find that a master’s in educational administration provides you with the skills you need to lead your campus to success.

Graduates may also go on to direct specific departments or programs, and some work for state education agencies or become educational policy consultants. If you’re interested in education from a big-picture perspective, the M.Ed. in administration might be right for you.

This degree allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. … It broadened my view and perspective on education and the critical role of the public school.

– Elizabeth Miller, 2014 Graduate of Lamar University’s M.Ed. in Administration Online

What’s the Difference Between an Online Degree and an On-campus Degree?

As long as you attend a reputable university and study in an accredited degree program, there’s no discernable difference academically between an online degree and an on-campus degree. The curriculum is just as rigorous and the professors who teach online are just as qualified as those who teach on campus.

At Lamar University, most of the professors who teach online courses and programs are the same ones who teach the on-campus versions. The only difference in the programs is the delivery method – online versus on-campus.

We don’t think of it as an online education, we think of it as a Lamar University education… Your degree is in your academic area, not in how your course was delivered.

– Dr. Paula Nichols, Associate Provost for Digital Learning at Lamar University

Why Does Accreditation Matter?

Accrediting bodies essentially review and audit the curriculum, learning outcomes, graduation rates, ethics and business practices of a university or specific degree program. Generally speaking, one accrediting organization reviews the overall university while a separate, specialized organization reviews individual programs. There are accrediting bodies dedicated to business degrees, nursing degrees, education degrees and so on. Each ensures that your program meets professional standards within a given field.

If your school and program are accredited, you can be confident that you’re receiving a valuable education from a respected institution. Employers are aware of this distinction, which will help you in your job search. Accreditation is also important because it affects your access to federal financial aid and military education benefits.

What Will I Learn in an Educational Administration Master’s Program?

There’s a lot to learn in an ed admin master’s program. You won’t just study how to set and execute mission-driven policies, you’ll prepare to become an effective school leader.

Students learn best practices for leadership and methods for professional development. You’ll also be up-to-date on research and evidence-based approaches to instruction, practice effective communication and develop your interpersonal skills.

An M.Ed. program in administration will prepare you for a range of job functions that are part of the principal’s role, including:

Curriculum management
Measuring and tracking student progress
Facilities and resource management
Teacher evaluation and personnel management
School operations

A master’s program that leads to principal certification will likely include an internship component as well, so you’ll gain real-world experience as you learn.

I think my biggest ‘takeaway’ from the Lamar program would have to be my feeling of accomplishment. It was difficult to overcome my own self-doubts and fears about going back to school. After I got started, I was encouraged and driven to finish.

– Kathy Leonard Green, 2013 Graduate of Lamar University’s M.Ed. in Administration Online

I have grown so much as a leader and person from my experience in pursuing an advanced degree that I have developed a newfound confidence and joy in my life.

– Natasha Harris, 2016 Graduate of Lamar University’s M.Ed. in Administration Online

What Courses Will I Take for My Master’s in Administration?

Specific courses vary across programs, but the core curriculum for your master’s in educational administration will cover topics in leadership, organizational development, law and public policy, school governance and operations, community relations, evidence-based practice via educational research, finance and resource management, and curriculum design and implementation. Lamar University’s online M.Ed. in Administration meets all of the criteria above, but it also takes a holistic approach to education, addressing both diverse learners and diverse belief systems. The voices of students, teachers, parents and the community area all taken into account. The degree consists of 10 three-credit courses:

Fundamentals of Leadership focuses on the connections between human behavior, belief systems and administrative style.
Research covers planning, methodology, and design for research proposals.
Leadership for Accountability offers protocols for long- and short-range planning, to address schoolwide troubleshooting and effect positive change.
Curriculum Management explores models of curriculum development and evaluation.
The Principalship is a study of the principal’s role as organizational and operational manager.
School Law covers federal and state statutes, interpretation of case law, ethics, and the Texas Education Code.
Human Resources Development addresses personnel recruitment, selection, assignment and evaluation, as well as promotion and termination.
Instructional Leadership focuses on improving instruction at the institutional level, by looking at successful models.
Leadership Diverse Learners addresses the connection between behaviors and beliefs, and how instructional programs can support students with diverse learning needs.
Internship in Principal provides master’s students the opportunity to work under a school administrator while practicing all aspects of the principal role.

Spotlight on the Principal: Leadership Matters

Research into the impact of effective principals reveals that school leadership matters. The Wallace Foundation, in its The School Principal as Leader: Guiding Schools to Better Teaching and Learning report, shared that case studies and large-scale quantitative analysis establish an empirical link between school leadership and positive outcomes, such as student achievement and teacher retention. The Wallace Foundation’s Five Key Practices for Effective Principals include:

Shaping a Vision of Academic Success for All Students
Creating a Climate Hospitable to Education
Cultivating Leadership in Others
Improving Instruction
Managing People, Data and Processes

A study by the journal Education Next also found that effective principals can raise student achievement levels, sometimes by as much as two to seven months of additional learning over a single academic year. The journal examined education databases compiled by the University of Texas at Dallas and the Texas Education Agency (TEA) for the study, and found that Ineffective principals actually lowered student learning outcomes by the same amount.

The National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) compiled several studies in its Leadership Matters report that confirmed the symbiotic link between great principals and great teachers as well. Essentially, retention of great teachers rises under effective leadership and falls under ineffective leadership. For teachers, the principal is ultimately the “broker of workplace conditions” according to NAESP. The Leadership Matters report cited teacher surveys in North Carolina and South Carolina that also confirm these findings.

Interestingly, the report noted that effective principals actually spend less time on professional development for teachers or classroom observation and more time building a great teaching staff, ensuring building safety and upkeep, addressing teacher concerns, and managing resources. In other words, creating an organized and learning-focused environment for students is the best way to improve academic performance schoolwide. Establishing and maintaining this environment rests entirely on the principal’s shoulders.

What Are the Admissions Requirements for a Master’s in Education Administration?

Each university sets its own criteria, but many requirements are designed with the goal of principal certification in mind. Principal certification guidelines, however, change from state to state, so it’s a good idea to confirm admission details with your preferred program. Educational administration master’s programs generally require some combination of the following:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
Acceptable grade point average (GPA)
Valid teaching certification or license
Teaching experience
Documented K-12 service record
Proof of employment at a state-approved campus
Professional references or letters of recommendation
A personal statement or statement of intent

While there are exceptions for out-of-state students, requirements for admission to Lamar University’s M.Ed. in Administration follow a similar rubric:

Minimum 2.5 GPA
A valid teaching certificate
Two years of teaching experience at the time of program application
Employment on a school campus accredited by the Texas Education Agency (TEA)
A personal essay
A reference from your principal or assistant principal

What Are the Exceptions for Out-of-state Students?

Some ed admin programs may allow graduate students living or working out of state to enroll without a valid teaching certificate, or without working at a campus approved by their state education agency. While students who enroll with these exceptions at Lamar University will not be eligible for principal certification in Texas, they may still be eligible for certification in the state where they plan to work. That’s because each state sets its own education policies and certification requirements for principals.

Lamar University’s Master of Education in Administration online program is available in 36 states. If you don’t plan to work as a principal in Texas, be sure to check certification requirements with your state’s department of education before enrolling.

To learn more about principal certification and state guidelines, check out the questions below.

How Do I Become a Principal?

Licensure and certification requirements vary by state the same way admissions policies vary by university. In other words, the specifics change, but the general outline is fairly similar. In many states, core requirements for licensure and certification include the following steps:

Gain two to five years of teaching experience.
Earn a graduate degree. Many states favor degrees in education, such as the M.Ed., Ed.S. or M.S.E., but some states will accept a master’s in other fields.
If your graduate degree in education doesn’t lead to principal certification, or your master’s is in another field, you’ll need to complete an approved certification program.
Pass your state’s preferred certification exam. Some states, like Texas, use their own exam. Others rely on a standardized test, such as the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA).

Which Exam Will I Take in Texas?

Principal candidates in Texas take the TExES Principal as Instructional Leader (268) exam. They also submit tasks from their principal internship as part of the Performance Assessment for School Leaders (PASL). Lamar University’s Master of Education in Administration prepares graduate students for both of these important milestones in the certification process. LU also provides students with a practice exam to be taken after their internship course.

Students must pass this exam with an 80% or higher in three attempts or fewer.

Does My State Require the SLLA Exam?

According to the Education Commission of the States, the SLLA exam is required by 15 states:

Arkansas
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine

Maryland
Michigan
Mississippi
New Jersey
Pennsylvania

Rhode Island
Tennessee
Utah
Vermont
Virginia

Learn more about our M.Ed. in Administration online program

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Will My State Hire Principals Without a Teaching Certificate?

Some online educational administration programs, like Lamar University, may allow out-of-state students to enroll without a teaching license. That’s because some states will accept principal candidates with a different type of experience. You may not need a teaching license to become a principal in the following states:

California
Colorado
Florida
Georgia
Idaho

Indiana
Maine
Michigan
Mississippi
Nebraska

New Jersey
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Dakota
Virginia

What Is License Reciprocity?

Your state-issued driver’s license isn’t immediately cancelled when you move across the country, and neither is your principal certification. Transitioning between states as a certified principal is a bit more complicated than updating your driver’s license, but it’s definitely doable.

License reciprocity allows you work in a new state based on your current qualifications as a school administrator. Each state sets its own reciprocity agreements and has its own policies for re-certification, and this process is facilitated by the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC). The only states that don’t participate in NASDTEC are New Mexico, New York, South Dakota and Wisconsin.

How Do I Confirm Certification Requirements in My State?

The Education Commission of the States offers a 50-state comparison detailing each state’s criteria for initial principal certification. While this comprehensive chart is a great resource, requirements are subject to change, so the best thing you can do is check with your state’s education agency. That way, you can be 100% sure your information is up to date.

Lamar University’s online Master of Education in Administration leads to principal certification in the state of Texas. It can lead to licensure in other states as well. In 2018, students from more than 30 states were enrolled in the M.Ed. program.

What Are Field Experience Hours?

Whether it’s called a practicum, internship or field experience, many states require principal candidates to practice their newly acquired skills before applying for certification. Exact guidelines vary by state, but you’ll be asked to observe, participate and lead as you prepare for your administrative role.

You might compile end-of-year reports, assist with hiring and budgeting, or create and implement a staff development program. Since internships take place over several months (often six months to a year), you’ll explore multiple core competencies. In other words, field hours provide the administrative experience you need to become a successful principal.

Online master’s students in education administration at Lamar University complete 260 field experience hours as they progress through their degree plan. Because the program’s principal internship meets National Educational Leadership Preparation (NELP) standards, out-of-state students may find that it also meets requirements for certification in their home state. However, it is up to the student to verify.

How Do I Complete My Field Experience As an Online Student?

In some cases, you’ll complete written reports detailing your field experiences. In other cases, you’ll complete video documentation. While specifics will change according to state guidelines and university policies, your practicum should always take place in the state where you plan to earn your initial principal certification. Make sure your tasks, hours and documentation meet your state’s requirements.

Because some universities require you to complete most or all of your coursework before beginning your field experience hours, your path to certification may take longer than your path to graduation. At Lamar University, however, you can start your internship as soon as you complete your first class. In fact, internship and documentation milestones are built into the entire curriculum. This approach allows you to finish your field experience hours before you enter your final graduate course.

Am I Allowed to Complete My Field Experience at My Place of Work?

Online students at Lamar University can conduct most of their internship at their place of work, but they must complete some tasks in a markedly different environment. This is because it’s important for principal candidates to gain a broad range of experience.

The setting may change from urban to suburban, the school may change from middle to elementary or high school, or the student population may present a significant demographic shift compared with your past teaching experience. By completing administrative tasks in an unfamiliar environment, you’ll hone your skill set. Demonstrating flexibility and versatility will also appeal to potential employers.

What Can I Do With a Master’s in Education Administration?

A master’s in education administration is traditionally meant for teachers who wish to become school administrators, namely assistant principals and principals. However, some M.Ed. graduates become program directors, or they may go on to work for education boards or education agencies. After gaining experience, some principals advance their career further by studying to become a superintendent. Others return to academia to earn a doctoral degree.

No matter which path you choose, earning a Master of Education in Administration can expand your knowledge and skill set, advance your career and boost your earning power. Above all, it will increase your ability to positively affect your school and your students.

My master’s degree not only prepared me for the work I would embark upon, but it has also opened doors to professional opportunities that would not have been available to me without my degree. It pushed me to think with a bigger picture in mind and provided me with opportunities to serve in greater capacities to impact the learning and the lives of more students.

– Jason Rainey, 2009 Graduate of Lamar University’s M.Ed. in Administration Online

What’s the Average Salary for Principals and Assistant Principals?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median annual wage for principals in public elementary, middle and high schools is $96,760. The median annual wage for principals who work in private elementary, middle and high schools is $84,990.

While the BLS doesn’t provide salary data for assistant principals, Glassdoor lists the average assistant principal salary as $71,581, as of May 2019. It’s worth noting that school administrators may receive bonuses or incentive pay based on their school’s academic performance and other variables. Median and average salaries don’t reflect this amount. According to Glassdoor data from May 2019, bonuses for principals average $22,118, while bonuses for assistant principals average $15,700.

Do Principal Salaries Change By City and State?

Most salaries fluctuate by location, and that’s especially true for principals. Population size, cost of living, state education funding and city education funding all play a part in determining base pay. Demand for principals and assistant principals, for instance, is often highest in metropolitan areas. That’s one reason average salaries trend higher in larger cities. Another reason: Cost of living in major cities trends high too.

The table below provides further insight into salary variations by city and state. These numbers don’t reflect bonus pay, which is determined by your school or district:

State	School District	Average Base Pay Assistant Principals	Average Base Pay Principals
Colorado	Boulder Valley	$107,197	$126,108
Colorado	Jefferson County (Denver suburbs and Golden)	$87,027	$112,446
Louisiana	East Baton Rouge Parish	$90,016	$100,702
Louisiana	Orleans Parish (New Orleans)	$73,771	$76,296
South Carolina	Aiken County (Aiken-North Augusta)	$84,121	$107,607
South Carolina	Clover	$67,868	$94,387
Texas	Houston	$81,313	$104,207
Texas	Dallas	$71,500	$112,207

Source: School district salary schedules, 2017-2019

As noted earlier, the salaries will vary depending on the school itself, even within the same district. For example, Denver Public Schools list a mid-range pay of $119,600 for principals at the high school level, but $109,000 for principals at the middle school level.

Spotlight on Hiring in Texas

Principals are needed most in Texas and California, and 25% of new principals in Texas are prepared by Lamar University. If you’re interested in joining this number, you may be curious about hiring prospects in your district. Based on a Burning Glass Technologies report (measuring job postings from March 2018 to April 2019), these are the top 10 metropolitan areas for Texas administrators:

Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land: 580 job postings
Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington: 462 job postings
Austin-Round Rock: 253 job postings
San Antonio-New Braunfels: 185 job postings
Killeen-Temple: 45 job postings
Beaumont-Port Arthur: 43 job postings
Waco: 42 job postings
El Paso: 35 job postings
Midland: 30 job postings
Amarillo: 29 job postings

I was immediately able to secure a job as an assistant principal and start working toward my goal of one day becoming a high school principal. My experience in the program prepared me for the job and really opened my eyes to issues administrators handle.

– Ryan Burns, 2016 Graduate of Lamar University’s M.Ed. in Administration Online

I originally started this program with a desire to be an athletic director. I was recruited to be an assistant principal just before I finished and within four years I had my first principalship. I have fallen in love with what I do.

– Clint Miller, 2011 Graduate of Lamar University’s M.Ed. in Administration Online

What’s the Career Outlook for M.Ed. in Educational Administration Graduates?

Career projections for elementary, middle and high school principals remain positive. The BLS forecasts 8% job growth through 2026, which is slightly above the average rate of growth for all occupations. Nearly 20,000 new jobs are expected over the same period, and a significant number of existing principal positions will additionally become available as Baby Boomers reach retirement age.

Obtaining a master’s degree has been a goal of mine for years. Since achieving this goal, my professional outlook has expanded beyond anything that I could have imagined.

– Natasha Harris, 2016 Graduate of Lamar University’s M.Ed. in Administration Online

Does the Career Outlook Change by State?

Just as demand for principals is higher in populous cities, demand is also higher in populous states. This is particularly the case for states with fast-growing populations, like Texas and Colorado. According to a Burning Glass Technologies report, these are currently the top five states for school administrator jobs:

California
Texas
Massachusetts
New York
Colorado

What’s the Tuition for an Online Master’s in Education Administration?

There’s a lot to consider when comparing tuition for an online master’s leading to principal certification. Once you’ve established that your degree program allows for certification in your state, look into the tuition cost per credit hour and multiply this amount by the number of credit hours required to graduate.

The lowest credit-hour cost may not be the most economical option when paired with a higher credit requirement for graduation. Time is also a factor. The more credits you need to graduate, the longer it takes to earn your degree.

Additional considerations include in-state and out-of-state tuition, not to mention extended paths to certification. Both the University of North Texas and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, for instance, require you to enroll in extra courses for your principal certification. Your internship doesn’t start until you complete your degree, adding that much more time and expense to the process.

The chart below illustrates these factors, all of which influence your out-of-pocket costs:

University	Tuition Per Credit Hour*	Required Credit Hours	Additional Certification Hours	Total Estimated Tuition Cost
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley	$458.33	30	6	$16,499.88
University of North Texas	$408.20 in-state $823.20 out-of-state	30	3	$13,470.60 in-state $27,165.60 out-of-state
Texas Woman’s University	$430.80 in-state $852.80 out-of-state**	30	0	$12,924 in-state $25,584 out-of-state
Arkansas Tech University	$365.50 in-state & neighbor states $649.50 all other states	30	0	$12,427 in-state & neighbor states $22,083 all other states
Lamar University	$300	30	0	$9,000

*Cost figures taken from university websites

**Both rates include technology fee and program fee

Also keep in mind that additional fees not included in the basic per-credit tuition rate can increase your out-of-pocket costs. Texas Woman’s University, for example, lists several additional fees for graduate students; above, we included just two of the fees to the tuition rate, though there are others. Lamar University’s listed total tuition rate for the program includes the distance learning fee.

Are Online Graduate Students Eligible for Financial Aid?

Most accredited schools are approved for federal financial aid, and it doesn’t matter if you’re an online student or not. Simply make sure you meet federal aid eligibility requirements (such as U.S. citizenship or eligible non-citizenship). Then fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on the Federal Student Aid website.

If you’re still paying off your federal loans for a previous degree, you’re eligible for additional funding as long as your current debt remains under a set limit. Make sure your existing loans are in good standing or resolve your default status first. From there, you can look into loan deferment, which allows you to suspend your payments as long as you’re enrolled as a part-time or full-time student.

If you have any additional questions or concerns, Lamar University has a helpful Financial Aid FAQ.

Are There Grants and Scholarships for Aspiring Principals?

Unlike federal loans, scholarships and grants don’t need to be repaid, which makes them a great source of funding. As an aspiring principal, you have several options to choose from. AASA: The School Superintendents Association has offered Educational Administration Scholarships to graduate students since 1949. The scholarship is only available to students who intend to become superintendents, and becoming a principal is the first step on the path to that goal. Once you’re enrolled in your ed admin program, simply download the application and request a nomination from your department chair.

If you’re training to become a principal in Texas, ask your school district about the TEA Principal Preparation Grant. Local education agencies (LEAs) eligible for Title II, Part A funding may apply for the grant. LEA recipients then select strong principal candidates from their existing staff. Candidates are subsequently enrolled in an approved ed admin program, like the M.Ed. at Lamar University, and they receive full tuition for their degree.

While the AASA scholarship and TEA grant rely on endorsements from educational leaders, there are still lots of funding alternatives available to graduate students. That’s the case no matter your field of study.

Learn more about our M.Ed. in Administration online program

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Can I Apply My Military Education Benefits to an Online Program?

Online education is great for both veterans and active duty service members. It’s flexible, and you can study anytime, anywhere. Online or on campus, you can apply your military education benefits as long as your degree program is approved by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Most accredited programs are approved, and you can confirm your school’s eligibility on the VA’s website.

Lamar University is approved for the Montgomery GI Bill and Post 9/11 GI Bill, and for Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard and Marine Tuition Assistance (TA) programs. The university has been named a 2019 Military Friendly School by education research publisher SR Education Group, and application fees are waived for active duty military members. You can temporarily halt your studies during deployments as well.

The university provides active duty and veteran students with coordinators that can help them succeed as they transition to online learning, and also accepts non-traditional credits earned by service for military training, CLEP and other regionally accredited courses recommended by the American Council of Education (ACE).

Whether you’re a veteran, an active duty service member or military spouse, applying your VA benefits to your education can be complicated. You can reach out to a dedicated enrollment specialist at 866-223-7675 for assistance.

How Do I Apply Education Benefits as a Military Spouse?

Studying online as a military spouse is a great way to earn a degree. You can continue studying no matter where your family is stationed or what time zone you’re in. If you’re interested in applying military education benefits to your tuition, your spouse can transfer Post 9/11 GI Bill Education Benefits in your name. If you prefer an alternative source of funding, Lamar University also maintains a directory of scholarships and financial aid specifically for military spouses. An enrollment specialist can assist you with either approach.

How Long Will It Take to Earn My Master’s in Administration Online?

Traditional master’s programs take at least two years to complete, but studying online can speed your path to graduation. That’s because online programs are sometimes accelerated, which means you’ll finish courses in five to eight weeks (as opposed to the traditional sixteen-week course). In an accelerated program, you can take one course at a time and still complete two or three courses per semester. You’d have to take multiple courses simultaneously to maintain the same pace in a traditional program, and that’s a tall order for most working adults.

The more classes you successfully manage per term, the faster you’ll earn your degree, but that’s not the only factor affecting your graduation timeline. If you can’t begin your internship hours until your program is complete or mostly complete, you’ll spend more time working toward graduation, which delays your principal certification.

Lamar University’s online Master of Education in Administration is an accelerated program with five-week courses, offering two to three course cycles per semester (eight terms per year). Because internship hours are incorporated throughout your degree plan, you can earn your degree and fulfill certification requirements in as few as 16 months.

Can I Earn My Degree While Working Full Time?

Yes. The main benefit of online education is its flexibility and convenience, allowing working adults to advance their education and career without sacrificing gainful employment. For teachers in an ed admin master’s program, maintaining employment comes with an added benefit. You can complete most of your principal internship hours at your place of work.

I was a teacher and a coach, working 80-90 hours a week and raising 3 kids below the age of 10 when I started. … With the situation I was in, online was my only option. Had it not been for the structure of Lamar’s program I would have never been able to get my master’s.

– Clint Miller, 2011 Graduate of Lamar’s M.Ed. in Administration Online

There simply was not a way for me to attend regular classes without missing work. This program allowed me to work on my time and complete the assignments at my own pace.

– Ryan Burns, 2016 Graduate of Lamar University’s M.Ed. in Administration Online

How Much Time Do I Need to Study?

With accelerated courses, you’re covering a whole semester’s worth of learning in a much shorter period of time. It is therefore a good idea to set aside 10 to 15 hours a week for your studies. At least three of those hours will go to your “in-class” time, including viewing video lectures and participating in class discussions via online forums. You’ll spend the remaining hours completing the rest of your course module for the week, including reading, studying and assignments.

Master’s students in educational administration at Lamar University will find a week-long break after each five-week course cycle. That means you’ll have time to rest and relax throughout the semester.

Staying focused and organized is the key to success. As with any online type learning, you are going to get out of it what you put into it. So, ask lots of questions and truly commit to the discussion boards and collaborative opportunities that will be part of the program.

– Alisha Cunningham, 2009 Graduate of Lamar University’s M.Ed. in Administration Online

Will I Need a New Computer to Study Online?

Probably not. All you need is a reliable computer that can access and browse the internet, play videos, as well as download and upload documents. Make sure your computer can run basic software for word processing, spreadsheets and presentations. In some cases, you can even access online course materials with your smartphone or tablet.

How Do I Log Into My Courses?

Many online programs rely on a web-based learning management system (LMS), such as Blackboard or Canvas. Navigating the LMS is like navigating any other website. Simply log in, select your course and enter your virtual classroom. From there, you’ll find clearly marked links to course materials and class forums. You can view or download the syllabus, upload assignments, access course modules, view video lectures and participate in class discussions.

It’s a good idea to log in once a day, even if you only have a few minutes to spare. Logging in daily allows you to stay involved in class conversations, and you won’t miss out on course announcements.

Lamar University uses Blackboard as its LMS, offering 24/7 technical support should any issues arise. The IT Service Desk will not only assist you with Blackboard, but will also troubleshoot your computer and connectivity issues as well.

How Do I Communicate With My Professors?

As you study online, you can interact with your professors via the LMS and email, and often by phone. Some professors are also available through text and video chat. Because online professors understand the accelerated nature of these courses, they often make it a point to respond to students within 24 to 48 hours.

Professors at Lamar University take an extensive outreach approach to online learning. Many respond to students within 24 hours, to make sure working educators have all the support they need.

Which Student Services Are Available to Online Students

Many online programs offer LMS technical support and library database access. Lamar University additionally provides online students with computer and connectivity troubleshooting, as well as library access through telephone, email and instant messaging. You can gain research assistance by using the Ask a Librarian service, and you can additionally access library collections from 110 publicly funded Texas colleges and universities via the TexShare program.

Lamar University’s online programs extend throughout Texas and beyond. Prospective students can meet with an educational consultant in person at the Lamar University Student Service Center in McAllen, or reach out to an enrollment specialist at 1-866-223-7675.

Can Online Students Participate in Graduation Ceremonies?

Online students deserve to celebrate as much as on-campus students. After all, earning your master’s degree is a huge accomplishment. That’s why some online programs invite students to attend graduation on campus. You can honor the occasion with friends and family, and it’s a great opportunity to meet your professors and fellow students.

Students enrolled in an accelerated online program may finish their degree at several points during the spring, summer or fall semesters, and Lamar University confers degrees two weeks after online students complete the program. Of course, you can still participate in a commencement ceremony after your degree is conferred. Lamar University hosts three graduation ceremonies throughout the year.

My family couldn’t be more proud. … It was really a great experience having my wife, son, mom and dad all watch me walk across that stage when it was all done.

– Ryan Burns, 2016 Graduate of Lamar University’s M.Ed. in Administration Online

Why Choose Lamar University?

Lamar University is the leading principal preparation program in Texas, counting 25% of the state’s new principals among its graduates. With principal internship milestones incorporated throughout the curriculum, Lamar University’s M.Ed. in Administration presents a best case study for practicum implementation. The university is number one in the country for overall M.Ed. conferrals, boasting a 92% summary pass rate for all certification tests.

In addition to having these credentials, Lamar University earned a top-20 ranking in College Choice’s 2018 Most Affordable Online Graduate Schools for Master’s Degrees list. U.S. News & World Report also ranks Lamar University’s online graduate programs in education among the best in the nation.

Lamar University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The university’s College of Education and Human Development, which oversees the M.Ed. in Administration, is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

When Can I Enroll?

Where traditional degree programs start once or twice a year, the Lamar University online M.Ed. in Administration calendar features eight opportunities to apply and enroll each year.

“If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn’t have waited so long to start on my degree. If I had known it was available sooner, I would have started working on my master’s degree much sooner.” – Kathy Leonard Green, 2013 Graduate of Lamar University’s M.Ed. in Administration Online