Master of Education in Educational Administration

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Hawaii Manoa

Program Overview

The Master of Education in Educational Administration at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa prepares professionals to lead, manage, and improve educational institutions through advanced study of leadership, organisational development, educational policy, and research. Students can specialise in K–12 Administration or Higher Education Administration, developing the skills needed for leadership and administrative positions in schools, colleges, universities, and other educational organisations. The programme requires 30 graduate credits and typically takes two years to complete.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students develop foundational knowledge through Introduction to Educational Administration (EDEA 601 for K–12 / EDEA 657 for Higher Education) and Research in Educational Administration (EDEA 602). They explore organisational leadership, school-community relations, educational policy, and research methodologies.

Year 2: Students advance their leadership and management knowledge through courses such as Organizational Leadership in Education (EDEA 650), Leadership in Higher Education (EDEA 660), and Education Law (EDEA 630K/630H), depending on their specialisation. They complete either a master's thesis under Plan A or a research project under Plan B, alongside approved electives.

Focus Areas

Educational leadership, K–12 administration, higher education administration, organisational development, educational policy, school-community relations, education finance, education law, research methods, institutional management.

Learning Outcomes

Develop educational leadership skills, analyse institutional policies, manage educational organisations, evaluate organisational performance, apply research methodologies, understand education finance and law, manage institutional change, develop collaborative leadership strategies, improve educational outcomes.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The M.Ed. in Educational Administration is nationally accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP). The university's College of Education officially lists this programme among its nationally accredited academic programmes.

Reputation (Employability & Rankings)

The Department of Educational Administration develops educational leaders for institutions across Hawaiʻi, the United States, and the Pacific region. Its graduates work in K–12 school administration, higher education leadership, institutional management, and educational policy. A separate programme-specific employability ranking is not published.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Hawaii at Manoa, the Master of Education in Educational Administration program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that translate theory into practice. This program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing you to develop practical skills that are essential for effective leadership in educational settings. You'll have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enhance your learning experience, including dedicated research labs, collaborative spaces, and advanced technology tools.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available in the MEd Educational Administration program:

- Internships: Engage in real-world experiences through internships in local schools and educational organizations, allowing you to apply your knowledge in practical settings.

- Collaborative Projects: Work on group projects that foster teamwork and problem-solving skills, preparing you for leadership roles in diverse educational environments.

- Field Trips: Participate in field trips to various educational institutions, providing insights into different administrative practices and leadership styles.

- Digital Tools: Utilize software such as Google Workspace for Education and other educational management systems to enhance your learning and administrative skills.

- Research Facilities: Access dedicated research labs and resources at the College of Education, where you can conduct studies and collaborate with faculty on educational research.

- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from the extensive resources available at the Hamilton Library, which offers a wealth of educational materials and research support.

- Professional Development Workshops: Attend workshops and seminars that focus on current trends and challenges in educational administration, helping you stay informed and prepared for your career.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Education in Educational Administration at the University of Hawaii Manoa prepares graduates for impactful leadership roles in educational settings. With a focus on developing effective administrators, this program equips students with the skills needed to excel in various positions, such as school principals, district administrators, and educational consultants. Graduates are well-prepared to drive positive change in schools and communities:

- University Services: The Career Center offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and job placement assistance tailored specifically for education graduates. Additionally, the Office of Student Equity, Excellence, and Diversity provides resources to support diverse student populations in their career journeys.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, graduates from the MEd program have a high employment rate, with over 90% securing positions within six months of graduation. The average salary for educational administrators in Hawaii is approximately $85,000, with potential for growth as you gain experience.

- University–Industry Partnerships: The University of Hawaii Manoa has established partnerships with local school districts and educational organizations, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world experience that enhances their learning and employability.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MEd program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), ensuring that your degree meets high standards recognized nationally, which can enhance your career prospects.

- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to hold influential positions in education, contributing to policy development and school improvement initiatives across the state and beyond.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the Master of Education in Educational Administration, you may choose to pursue further studies, such as a Doctorate in Education (EdD) or a PhD in Educational Leadership. These advanced degrees can open doors to higher-level administrative roles, faculty positions in higher education, or specialized research opportunities, allowing you to deepen your expertise and impact in the field of education.