6 Reasons to Get an Online M.A. in Urban Education

Last Updated on March 9, 2025

A Master of Arts in Urban Education Principal Preparation program can provide the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed. It can also offer you the ability to become an effective leader. There are many reasons to pursue an online Master of Arts in this field, and below are six of the most important ones.

What This Article Covers

• Comprehensive Curriculum Benefits: Learn how an online M.A. in Urban Education provides a strong foundation in educational theory, curriculum development, and leadership.
• Hands-On Leadership Experience: Discover how practical training and real-world applications prepare you for the challenges of school administration.
• Learning from Experienced Educators: See how networking with professionals and participating in practicum experiences enhance your skills and career opportunities.
• Higher Salary Potential: Explore how earning an advanced degree in urban education can increase earning potential and job security in educational leadership.
• Impacting Your Community: Understand how school leadership allows you to shape school culture, support diverse populations, and improve student outcomes.
• Certification and Career Flexibility: Find out how an online principal preparation program offers a convenient path to certification while balancing work and personal commitments.

1. Benefit from a Well-Rounded Curriculum

There are many benefits to pursuing an online master of arts in urban education, such as the Principal Preparation program. One such advantage is that you will gain a well-rounded curriculum that will better prepare you for the challenges of being a principal. This program will give you a strong foundation in educational theory and practical experience in curriculum development and assessment. You will also be able to work with experienced educators who can help you hone your skills and develop your leadership potential.

2. Gain Practical Experience

By pursuing an online program, you can gain the skills and knowledge necessary to lead your school and help your students succeed effectively. Pursuing an online degree in this field can also allow you to gain the practical experience you need to become a successful school leader. As a principal, you will oversee all aspects of your school’s operation, from curriculum development to ensuring students meet academic standards.

3. Learn from Experienced Professionals

Having an M.A. in Urban Education can also allow you to network with other educators. This can be beneficial as it can allow you to learn from their experiences and gain insights into best practices. Additionally, many programs offer practicum experiences that enable you to work with a school district and gain hands-on experience.

4. Earn a Higher Salary

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for elementary and secondary school principals was $94,390 in May 2016. This number is expected to grow 8 percent from 2016 to 2026, resulting in a median wage of $102,000 in 2026. This means those with a degree in urban education leadership can expect to earn a higher salary than those without one. So, if you’re looking for a way to boost your career and earn a higher salary, consider pursuing an M.A. in Urban Education Principal Preparation program. And with an online program, you can continue working while pursuing your degree.

5. Make a Difference in Your Community

Pursuing an online M.A. in this program can also help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to be an effective leader in today’s diverse educational landscape. As a principal, you will be able to directly impact the lives of your school’s students, faculty, and staff. In addition, you will be able to shape the culture and climate of your school community.

The curriculum in the Principal Preparation program is designed to prepare you for the challenges of leading a school. You will learn about educational policy, law, finance, creating positive learning environments, and practical strategies for working with diverse populations. In addition, you will have the opportunity to gain real-world experience through field placements and internships.

6. Prepare for Certification

You can take many different routes when you want to become a school principal. You could get your certification through a traditional program at a brick-and-mortar institution. However, thanks to the proliferation of online education, you can also pursue an online M.A. in urban education with a concentration in principal preparation.

There are several reasons why this might be a wise decision for you. However, the essential reason is that an online program can be more convenient than a traditional program. This is especially true if you are already working full-time or have family responsibilities that make it difficult to attend classes on campus. By studying online, you can complete your coursework at your own pace and schedule.

Next Steps

• Research Accredited Programs: Explore online M.A. in Urban Education programs that align with your career goals and offer principal preparation certification.
• Connect with Admissions Advisors: Speak with program representatives to understand admission requirements, tuition costs, and potential financial aid opportunities.
• Evaluate Your Schedule: Determine how you can balance coursework with your current job and personal commitments to ensure a successful learning experience.
• Network with Education Professionals: Engage with current students, alumni, and educators to gain insights into career growth and leadership opportunities.
• Plan for Certification: Review state-specific principal certification requirements to ensure your program meets your long-term career objectives.

Final Words

Pursuing an M.A. in Urban Education with a principal preparation focus is a valuable step toward advancing your career in educational leadership. By selecting the right program, gaining hands-on experience, and preparing for certification, you can position yourself for long-term success in shaping the future of urban education. Take the next step today and start working toward a meaningful and impactful career in school leadership.

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