An education MBA online is an ideal way for busy professionals to continue working full-time while earning a valuable graduate degree. For professionals already working in the education field, or those who are looking for a career change, earning an online MBA in education opens many doors for career advancement. Many current educators may move to administrative positions that can positively influence how the educational system can be most efficient. Others may find mobility and higher pay with teaching positions, as the advanced degree provides for further training and knowledge than that of a bachelor’s degree.

What to Expect from the Best Online MBA Programs in Education

Students enrolling in education MBA programs online should consider both the positive and negative aspects of online education prior to committing to online classes. The positive points of online classes include scheduling flexibility and the ability to work at one’s own pace. However, earning a graduate degree online also requires a high level of focus and discipline. Students should plan their study time based on the credit hours awarded for each class; if a class is three credit hours, allow approximately three to four hours per week for studying and homework for that class. For many students, this actually means that more time will be spent working on online classes than would be required for traditional classroom-based courses.

Accredited Online Education MBA Programs

The top online MBA education programs offer a solid academic foundation that aims to support the individual in expanding his or her professional portfolio. The following is a list of schools that offer an accredited online MBA in education:

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Program Length: School’s online MBA in education requires # credits, and can be typically completed within 2-3 years.

Although most online MBA programs emphasize similar cornerstones of education, specialized classes may vary from program to program. Prospective students should research a school’s specific program, as well as validate national accreditation and online education MBA rankings.

Skills Acquired Through Top Online Education MBA Programs

A good online masters of business administration in education will produce individuals who will be able to face the professional challenges in a variety of work environments. Some common skills that are focused on include:

• A firm understanding of business accounting practices used to manage the finances of an educational institution.
• Interpersonal communication skills required to work with diverse groups of colleagues and students.
• Business administration skills and business fundamental knowledge.
• A thorough comprehension of marketing skills which will be useful when raising funds for educational institutions.
• Proficiency with the software and other technological tools used in the education field.

The abilities gained from a top online program will be expected when competing for the best education MBA jobs.

Careers with an Online MBA in Education

Graduates of top education MBA online programs can expect a multitude of career choices, including:

• Education Administrator: In any level of school from elementary to post-secondary, competent and effective managers are needed. Education administrators direct the business operations of the institution while also helping coordinate the staff and providing leadership. Salaries may vary based on the job setting, but on average a professional in this career field earns $80,140 per year. The job field should grow at an approximately average pace over the next decade.
• Education Professor: Teaching future generations of teachers allows graduates of online MBA education programs to pass on their knowledge and expertise. The average yearly salary one can expect as an education professor is $62,160. The job growth for this industry is projected to be very positive as the post-secondary educator career field is expected to grow faster than the average for all industries.
• Special Education Teacher: Being a teacher in the field of special education typically requires more education than other teaching positions; an online MBA in education should allow graduates to work with various types of disabilities. Salaries vary based on a number of factors, but the average annual salary for special education teachers at the elementary school level is $53,770. Due in part to more sophisticated screening and diagnostic tools, the demand for special education teachers is on the rise; job prospects for this field are expected to be excellent.