NIU College of Education

Online Ed.S. in Educational Administration 

Promote continuous school improvement as a superintendent.

One of every five superintendents in Illinois is an NIU graduate. They’re visionary leaders in education, applying their skills to foster continuous improvement in the academic environments they manage. With courses focused on current issues and research in Illinois education and an in-person internship, our program provides knowledge and experience to help you thrive in this vital role.

“I have several NIU degrees: B.S., M.S., director of special education graduate certificate and Educational Specialist (Ed.S.). I obtained my latest NIU degree, an Ed.D. in educational leadership and policy studies, in 2023. NIU has had a huge impact on my life.” Treveda RedmondB.S., M.S., Ed.S., Ed.D.

Careers After NIU's Online Ed.S. in Educational Administration

With your knowledge of organizational and leadership theory, school finance and facilities management, and educational research trends, you’ll excel as a K-12 public school administrator. You’ll also be prepared for careers in higher education, educational policy or the nonprofit sector.

You can transfer some credits earned in this program to the Ed.D. in educational leadership and policy studies.

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Career Potential for Graduates of Educational Administration Programs

Average salary for mid-career alumni:

Top industries alumni work in:

Top employers for alumni:

Source: Steppingblocks, {{steppingBlocksSourceYear}} (data applies to graduates of all available program modalities for the M.S.Ed. in educational administration)

Admission Requirements for NIU's Online Ed.S. in Educational Administration

You can apply if you:

  • Have a current and valid ISBE administrative endorsement (e.g., principal, CSBO, director of special education, teacher leader, general administrative)
  • Are employed as a school district administrator
  • Have a minimum graduate GPA of 3.00 (preferred)

You’ll apply through the Graduate School. Your application materials will include:

  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement on your education, professional progress, goals and reasons for applying
  • Official transcripts
  • Current resume

Students are accepted under conditional admission. Formal admission is granted after a review of coursework from the first semester.

Learn About Applying to NIU >>

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the synchronous coursework look like?

During each semester, you will participate in regularly scheduled synchronous class sessions each week. These live online sessions provide opportunities to engage with faculty and classmates, participate in discussions, and collaborate with members of your cohort throughout the program.

Can coursework from the Ed.S. be applied toward an Ed.D. at NIU?

After completing the Ed.S. in Educational Administration, students interested in continuing their education through NIU's Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies can speak with their program advisor to understand how up to nine credit hours from the Ed.S. may be applied toward the Ed.D. program.

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We’ll send you details about our online Ed.S. in educational administration.

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Connect With an Online Student Success Specialist

They'll guide you every step of the way.

Corbin Tyson
he/him/his
ctyson@niu.edu
815-753-6279
Meet with Corbin

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