Educational Leadership Degree Overview

The Master of Arts in Education with an emphasis in Educational Leadership allows students to customize their programs, meeting their unique career goals through the selection of alternative coursework in related fields such as human resources, public administration, organizational leadership, and business administration. This program is designed for those seeking to develop their leadership skills without pursuing a Preliminary Administrative Services Credential for public school administration. 

  • Apply leadership skills to promote effective problem-solving and collaborative decision-making.
  • Develop a theoretical research project utilizing one or more methodologies.
  • Analyze best practices within global educational systems.
  • Utilize theories of learning and brain research to enhance teaching and student learning.
  • Evaluate curriculum design as it relates to meeting the diverse needs of students.
  • Analyze issues and make ethical decisions within an educational context.

At a Glance

Online
30 Credits
$730/Credit
Help me estimate my cost
Next Start Date
Summer II (Jun 23, 2025)

Career Outlook for MA in Education (Educational Leadership)

Results for:
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA
Median Salary2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring

Data source: Lightcast™ 2025 www.lightcast.io

The pathway information provided through this website is based partly on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data licensed by the University of Massachusetts Global from Lightcast. While the University of Massachusetts Global believes this data to be reliable, some of the data is based on estimates made by Lightcast when actual data is unavailable. Those estimates and the corresponding data may need to be corrected.

  1. Change in employment projections 2022 - 2032
  2. Based on BLS Occupational Employment Statistics and updated quarterly
  3. The University of Massachusetts Global does not guarantee a job to graduates upon completion of any program

Courses You Might Take

EDUU 600

Research and Evaluation Methods

3 Credits
EDUU 614

Data Driven Leadership in Educational Organizations

3 Credits
EDUU 615

Engaging Stakeholders in Educational Organizations

3 Credits
EDUU 616

Leading Change in Educational Organizations

3 Credits

What it’s like going to UMass Global?

Instructor-Led, Session-Based

This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed—no penalty. Courses include online lectures, group discussions, and structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and peer interaction, making it ideal for students who thrive in a structured learning environment.

Personalized Support Services

UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.

Office meeting

Employer-Aligned Curriculum

At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.

Instructor-Led, Session-Based

This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed—no penalty. Courses include online lectures, group discussions, and structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and peer interaction, making it ideal for students who thrive in a structured learning environment.

Personalized Support Services

UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.

Office meeting

Employer-Aligned Curriculum

At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.

Our Faculty

All Faculty
Shari Farris Ed.D.
Dr. Shari Farris, EdD
Associate Dean, School of Education, Associate Professor of Education
Dr. Shari Farris EdD
Portrait of Dr. Sasha Crowley
Dr. Sasha Crowley
Clinical Practice Director, Assistant Professor of Education
Dr. Sasha Crowley

Admission Requirements

Applicants for this master's degree program must complete the formal application process with all required documents, which include:

  • Completed application
  • Current Resume
  • Letter of intent
  • 2.75 grade point average (GPA)
  • Official transcripts from all regionally accredited institutions where baccalaureate and/or post-baccalaureate coursework was completed or attempted

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Check out our Military and Veterans pages and discover how we can support you in your educational journey.

Learn How

WASC Senior College and University Commission

University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

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Testimonials

Meg V

The MAELA program was beyond invaluable. So much of what I was asked to do was relatable to my job. The people affiliated with the program know what works in education.

Meg V.
Educational Leadership & Administration, MA

The professors and staff were incredibly supportive, flexible, and helpful. I have graduated with the confidence to enter the world of education and be a knowledgeable educational leader.

Sarah D.
Educational Leadership & Administration, MA

My academic advisor was a great support system. He was my advisor throughout my program and he took the time to learn about me personally so we could make the best schedule to accommodate my life.

Steve L.
Education, Teaching and Learning, MAE

 

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