Program Overview

Master of Education in Educational Leadership

The Master of Education in Educational Leadership program provides professional preparation for educators seeking administrative positions in elementary and secondary schools. Faculty with both research expertise and practical experience in the field bring theory and a practitioner's perspective to the coursework, helping students implement what they learn at their institution. This cohort-based program is designed to help students build strong relationships with others who have similar career goals, providing an extensive professional network across Arkansas and the region that lasts far beyond graduation.

Program Structure

• Courses are offered in 8-week rotations with synchronous online meetings on Wednesday evenings in the fall and spring semesters.
• The program has a current pass rate of 100% for University of Arkansas students sitting for the School Leaders Licensure Assessment.
• Accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.

Pathways in the Educational Leadership Program

The Educational Leadership program at the University of Arkansas is more than just a collection of courses. It offers:

• An extensive network of K-16 partners throughout the state.
• A distinguished list of alumni in key leadership positions throughout the country.
• A faculty committed to providing a highly rigorous and relevant classroom experience.
• Researchers who bridge theory and practice to respond to the needs of policymakers and practitioners in the field.
• Students who are passionate about transforming schools and improving the lives of children.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership requires:

• Prior admission to the University of Arkansas Graduate School.
• A completed Educational Leadership program application.
• A valid teaching license.
• A writing prompt inside the program application.
• Two letters of recommendation, one of which should be from a current supervisor.
• A resume or CV.
• An interview with the EDLE faculty or program coordinator may be requested.
• The master's degree is a cohort-based program that begins in the fall semester.
• Applications for admission must be completed by April 1.
• Early admissions deadline for the following fall semester cohort is November 1.

Estimated Cost

• Tuition per credit hour: $459.68.
• Fees per credit hour include:
  • Library: $4.98.
  • Network & Data Systems: $16.
  • Off-campus: $30.
  • Online Facilities: $2.
• Tuition and fees per credit hour reflect fall 2025 rates for students studying completely online. Students in online programs who take an on-campus course will pay on-campus fees, mandatory and college fees, for only the on-campus course.

Related Programs

• Post Master's Certificate in Building Level Administration.
• Post Master's Certificate in District Level Administration.
• Educational Specialist in Educational Leadership.
• Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership.

Job Market Outlook

The program prepares students for various roles in educational leadership, with a strong focus on administrative positions in elementary and secondary schools. The job market outlook is positive, with graduates having a 100% pass rate on the School Leaders Licensure Assessment, indicating their readiness for leadership roles in education.