masters in education online

Education Leadership (online)

Graduate Program

The Master’s in Education (Ed.M.) prepares students with the skills needed to change the world through education. The online Master’s in Education Leadership is a part-time, two-year Ed.M. program from the Harvard Graduate School of Education with Higher Education and PreK-12 pathways. The program is specifically designed for working education professionals who bring at least seven years of relevant or transferrable work experience. Through this program, students will strengthen the invaluable skills they’ve already developed and develop the tools to propel themselves to new leadership opportunities and to even greater impact.

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A Guide to Master’s Degrees in Education and Teaching

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What Is a Master's in Education?

There are several types of master's degrees in education , the predominant two being the master of education (M.Ed.) and the master of arts in teaching (MAT). But what's an M.Ed. vs. MAT ? MAT programs prepare students for classroom teaching careers whereas M.Ed. programs can prepare students for a wider selection of educational roles, including teaching, administrative, and corporate positions.

Additionally, some schools offer master of arts and master of science degrees in education. The scope of each degree program varies and may skew more toward arts and humanities or science and mathematics. Students interested in becoming music educators could even pursue a master of music in music education.

The curriculum of a master's in education or teaching program varies broadly depending on degree type and concentration, but most programs include foundational courses in curriculum development and instructional strategies. Programs that lead to licensure or certification typically include student teaching or other field experiences.

Average Length of M.Ed.

Number of Years 1-2 (Full Time) 3-4 (Part Time)

Credits Required 30-50

Average Annual Cost of M.Ed.

Online Program $7,991

On-Campus Program $12,600

“[One] key consideration in choosing a master's in education is truly determining if it is aligned with a student's career aspirations. Is the degree required for career goals? Will the degree be worth the investment in time and money? Many adult learners must weigh the benefit of the investment personally and professionally.”

— Dr. Stacey Ludwig Johnson , Senior VP and Executive Dean of the School of Education, Western Governors University

Online Master's in Education Admission Requirements

Most master's in education programs require you to have the following when you apply:

• Bachelor's degree with a GPA of at least 3.0
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Proof of English proficiency

Additionally, some programs may require you to submit GRE test scores . Others, such as educational administration programs, may require that you have prior teaching experience or hold a valid teaching license.

Featured Online Master's in Education Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Popular Master’s in Education Online Programs

We chose to highlight the following schools based on several factors, including top position in organic or paid search results (as of August 2023), relevancy of program offerings, and categorization as a nonprofit. These programs are listed alphabetically by school and not weighed against each other in our methodology.

Arizona State University (ASU)

• Public institution in Arizona
• 18 online program options
• 30-47 credits | $692 per credit

Arizona State University's online master's in education programs provide analytical and research skills for current and future educators. ASU's degrees emphasize foundations in instructional strategies and learning methods.

Eastern Washington University (EWU)

• Public institution in Washington
• 15 online program options
• 49-50 credits | $300 per credit

Eastern Washington University online master's in education does not require recommendation letters or writing samples for admissions, unlike most programs. EWU offers 15 graduate education programs, including early childhood education, library media, and literacy.

Tulane University

• Private, nonprofit institution in Louisiana
• 4 online program options
• 30-33 credits | $1,210 per credit

Tulane University's online master's in education program has four specialization options. Students design their curriculum around these specializations, including learning experience design and special education, to prepare them for their chosen career path.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC)

• Public institution in Illinois
• 8 online program options
• 32 credits | $510 per credit

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's online master's in education programs prepare students to navigate challenging education issues. Other focuses include teaching strategies for diverse settings, leadership, and technological applications for education.

Western Governors University (WGU)

• Private, nonprofit institution in Utah
• Competency-based | $3,975 per term

Western Governors University has a competency-based model for its online master's in education programs. WGU students progress through courses once they're ready, speeding up if they're familiar or slowing down when they need extra time.

Online Master's in Education Concentrations

Early childhood education.

Master's in early childhood education programs focus on how to educate young children from infancy to age eight. Attendees will learn how to teach multiple subjects to children through courses including research literature, the critical role of early educators, and best teaching practices. Graduates can pursue many roles, including as preschool directors, early education curriculum developers, and classroom teachers.

Elementary Education

A master's in education with a concentration in elementary education prepares enrollees to work with students at the K-8 level. Learners study classroom management, learning design, and inclusive teaching methods to create optimized learning environments. Degree holders can pursue roles as educators, teaching assistants, and tutors.

Secondary Education

Master's in secondary education programs focus on the skills and knowledge necessary to promote education from grades 6-12. Programs may allow attendees to choose a preferred content subject including math, science, or social studies. Graduates typically pursue teaching roles, including middle school teacher, high school teacher, and teaching assistant.

Higher Education

Higher education graduate programs teach foundational knowledge regarding the current higher education landscape, costs, and structure. Students may study various topics, including higher education finance, college student health, and public policy in higher education. Enrollees can specialize in a subject by choosing a concentration such as diversity, public policy, or research. Prospective careers for graduates include community college president, resident director, or policy analyst.

Adult Education

Adult education master's programs help students understand how adults learn and how to design adult curriculums. Program curriculums may include teaching in an online environment, instructional strategies, and research courses. Adult education graduates can pursue roles as adult educators, administrators, or human resources managers.

Special Education

Special education graduate programs cover the laws and policies governing special education services. Coursework includes instruction on behavior management, goal and objective writing, and data collection and interpretation. Graduates can work as special education teachers, resource room teachers, adjunct faculty, and individualized education program case managers.

Gifted and Talented Education

Master's programs in gifted and talented education teach students how to educate, motivate, and empower academically talented learners. Graduates can support gifted students' development as gifted educators, elementary educators, or tutors.

English Language Learning (ELL)

Master's in ELL or TESOL (teaching English to speakers of other languages) students learn teaching techniques and strategies to help English language learners succeed. Graduates often become ELL teachers in K-12 or adult education settings.

Educational Administration

Educational administration graduate programs provide an understanding of methods and ideas that keep schools running efficiently. Attendees study standards-based systems theory, data analysis for decision-making, and how to manage resources. Educational administration degree holders can utilize their skills in school principal, dean, or athletic director roles.

Educational Leadership

Enrollees in master's in educational leadership programs prepare to be effective educational leaders by studying education theories, leadership, and finance. Attendees learn how to ensure student safety, manage budgets, and lead other educators. Educational leaders can pursue roles as principals, curriculum developers, and educational consultants.

Curriculum and Instruction

Master's students studying curriculum and instruction often specialize in a specific area like secondary language arts or elementary education. They learn how to evaluate different learning materials, create meaningful assessments, and interpret data.

Reading and Literacy

Reading and literacy master's programs help prospective educators gain a deeper understanding of reading and writing curriculums and theories. The program's curriculum generally focuses on K-12 students. Graduates can pursue roles as primary, secondary, or special education teachers.

Social Studies

Master's students in social studies programs learn about history and how to pass on their knowledge to secondary school students. Enrollees can learn about multiple history topics, including U..S history, traditional Chinese history, and modern European history. Graduates can earn a teaching degree to teach social studies in secondary schools.

Music Education

Music education master's programs provide instruction on both musical theory and music teaching strategies. Attendees learn about musical analytic techniques, how to develop musical educational materials, and how to utilize music technology in classrooms. Specialists in music education can become educators, program directors, or musicians.

Math Education

Math education graduate programs provide high-level mathematics knowledge and teaching methods to help elementary or secondary students excel in the subject. Degree holders may pursue teaching careers in subjects like algebra, calculus, and Java.

Science Education

Attendees in science education master's programs can choose to learn specialized knowledge in a science discipline, including biology, physics, or environmental studies. Science educators can pursue teaching roles in a public school setting or private setting, including at zoos and museums.

Educational Technology (EdTech)

A master's in EdTech covers the latest technological developments in the classroom. Graduates can become technology coordinators at schools, lead STEM teams, and help determine assistive technology for students.

Educational Assessment

Educational assessment graduate programs teach enrollees how to gather, analyze, and interpret data. Assessment and measurement professionals can be used at schools to determine students' performance or at private institutions to make data-driven decisions.

School Counseling

A school counseling master's program can prepare students to become K-12 counselors. Graduates may consider pursuing further education in school psychology or counselor education. Coursework for this specialization may cover group counseling, crisis counseling, and ethical practices.

Master's in coaching programs educate attendees on the importance of proper coaching practices, sports tactics, and team development. Aspiring coaches can pursue roles at educational institutions, at community centers, and with professional sports teams.

Child Development

Child development master's programs cover the major theories regarding the cognitive, social, and physical development of children. Individuals that understand the development process of children from infancy to adolescence can pursue roles as childcare administrators, children's advocates, and community outreach specialists.

Why Should You Get Your Master's in Education Online?

One of the big advantages of getting a master's in education online is that you don't have to leave the workforce. Many M.Ed. programs allow students to earn their degree part time, so they can balance their studies , work, and personal obligations.

That's one positive. Other benefits of online education include:

• Freedom to learn from anywhere
• More flexible class schedules
• Ability to change careers at your convenience
• Self-paced and self-directed learning
• More neurodivergent-friendly learning methods

“Online is the best option if you do not have the time to spend in a classroom because of personal obligations. To be successful, you must have excellent time management skills, be an effective communicator, and know how to collaborate with classmates virtually.”

— Charesha Barrett , M.Ed., Cleveland State University

What Can You Do With a Master's in Education?

A master's in education or teaching can lead to many in-demand education careers , including K-12 teacher, school principal, administrator, curriculum consultant, and other leadership positions.

And here's more good news: Your degree opens the door to jobs outside the education setting , too.

“Of course a master's degree in education can lead to opportunities in an educational setting. However, students tend to underestimate how the degree can support a career in other industries and career paths, like EdTech, learning and development, human resources, [and] project management.”

— Dr. Emmanuela Stanislaus , Instructor, Florida International University's MS in Higher Education Administration Program

Here are popular teaching and non-teaching jobs for master's in education graduates, including how much they pay and how much they're expected to grow over the next decade:

Do Online Master's in Education Programs Lead to Licensure?

A teaching license or certification provides people the authority to teach legally. Teachers and principals need licenses to work in P-12 public schools. State governments issue licenses if you meet predetermined criteria, such as having a degree, completing field experiences, and passing a state exam. Specific requirements vary by state and by the type of license, certification, or endorsement.

An online master's in education can be a pathway to licensure if the program is approved by the state. Online programs that lead to an initial teaching license typically include an in-person student-teaching component. If you already have a teaching license, you can apply to master's programs that lead to add-on endorsements or other certifications, such as an administrator license.

Non-licensure M.Ed. programs are typically designed for students who already hold a teaching credential or who plan to work in settings that do not require a license, such as private schools. These online programs often don't have any field requirements.

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Does Accreditation Matter for Master's in Education Programs?

Before enrolling in an online master's in education program, check the school's accreditation status . Institutional accreditation recognizes overall academic quality and legitimizes your degree. You must attend an accredited school to receive federal financial aid.

Programmatic accreditation recognizes programs or departments that adequately prepare students for their careers. Not all education programs have programmatic accreditation. Those that do have an additional marker of a high-quality education.

There are two main programmatic accreditors for educator preparation programs:

• Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation ( CAEP )
• Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation ( AAQEP )

For more specific subfields of education, you may also come across these accrediting bodies:

• National Association for the Education of Young Children ( NAEYC ) for early childhood education and child development programs
• National Association of Schools of Music ( NASM ) for music education programs
• Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs ( CACREP ) for school counseling, career counseling, and counselor education programs

Is an Education Master's Degree Worth It? Grads and Instructors Weigh In

The graduates and instructors we spoke to agreed that a master's in education leads to better opportunities, better pay, and greater impact — though you need to be mindful of the reasons why you want it.

They also say the degree helped them reach specific career goals, which varied depending on their values.

What Grads Are Saying

“A master's in education gives a teacher a far wider perspective on how the system works and how students learn. A graduate with a master's in education becomes a problem-solver who can zoom in and out of a problem, seeing it at both micro and macro levels.”

— Mindy Kay Smith , M.Ed., Ohio University

“[A master's in education] has served me well. … I'm a more creative problem-solver, a more empathetic product builder, and a stronger collaborator because I have spent time deeply understanding the problems and people in my industry.”

— Lisa Jiang , MA in Education, Stanford University

“My master's degrees helped me get more leadership positions in education and helped me attain committee roles with the Ohio Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Education. In addition, I am able to provide professional development at the collegiate level because of my two graduate degrees.”

What Instructors and Administrators Are Saying

“I think that it is worth it to pursue a master's in education. Having said that, I think that it is important for students to be strategic if and when they decide to pursue it. Go through the exercise of asking yourself why you want to pursue the degree. What opportunities will a master's degree open up for you, and will it be enough to support your lifestyle?”

“I consider a bachelor's degree to be like an appetizer when it comes to education. You just get a little taste and you don't have the full understanding of what it means to be an educator. After being in the classroom, having exposure to systems and structures, individuals pursuing a master's degree begin to ask better questions, challenge inequitable practices, and gain confidence in using their voice to advocate for research-based approaches to supporting students and programs.”

— Dr. Kasey Johnson , Lead Faculty, Ottawa University School of Education

“Earning a master's degree in education will help graduates be a part of a group of professionals who have the credentials, licensures, and industry-relevant skills and knowledge that current employers seek.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Master's Degrees in Education

Do most teachers have a master's degree.

Yes. According to the National Center for Education Statistics , 51% of public school teachers held master's degrees in 2021. And 53% of secondary teachers had a master's degree. Teaching requirements vary by state, with some states requiring a master's degree to become a certified teacher. Private schools can enact their own rules and may not require teachers to hold master's degrees.

Which master's degree in education pays the most?

Individuals with a master's degree in education earn a wide range of salaries based on their career paths, not their degree choice. According to the BLS, school principals earn some of the highest salaries among educators, with a median annual wage of $100,000 in 2023.

Is there a difference between a master's in teaching and a master's in education?

Yes. Master's in teaching degree programs focus on preparing enrollees for teaching roles while education degree curriculums can prepare students for a wider variety of positions. Online master's in education graduates can utilize their skills as teachers, administrators, social workers, human resource representatives, and more.

Can you be a professor with a master's in education?

Some higher education institutions, particularly community colleges, may allow professors to teach with a master's in education, but other schools may require a doctorate in education . Individuals with a master's in higher education may have additional opportunities to pursue careers at the postsecondary level.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed February 2, 2024.

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Online Master of Education Degree

Online Education Master’s Degree: An Overview

What are the benefits of getting a master's degree in education, how long does it take to earn a master's degree in education online, how much does an online master's in education cost, online master's in education admissions requirements, choosing an accredited online education master’s degree program, online coursework, education degree specializations, internship or practicum, professional associations in education.

• Association of American Educators : AAE is the largest nonunion educators' organization in the nation. The association is a proponent of teachers' rights. AAE offers members benefits that include teaching resources, exclusive job boards, certification opportunities and classroom grants.
• National Education Association : NEA has campaigned for the rights of educators and students since its founding in 1857. It was one of the first professional organizations to welcome teachers of color and provides a variety of financial and educational benefits to its 3 million worldwide members.
• ASCD : ASCD members include educators from preschool teachers to college professors. This organization's virtual career centers allow members to explore job openings nationwide, post their own job listings and peruse articles in its Pathfinder database. Members also have access to an exclusive webinar library.

Example courses

• Educational leadership
• Classroom management
• Assessment and evaluation of learning
• Educating diverse learners
• Curriculum design and development

Job Outlook and Salary for Graduates

What can you do with a master's in education degree.

• Adult literacy/GED diploma teacher : These instructors work primarily with adult learners – and out-of-school teenagers – teaching remedial courses. Some also lead preparatory courses for the GED exam or teach English as a second language.
• Principal : Principals are responsible for maintaining a productive learning environment throughout an entire school. They manage teachers and other staff in addition to establishing and maintaining school policies and standards. While a master’s degree is typically required for this position, many principals hold a Ph.D. and have several years of teaching experience.
• Teacher: Teachers are responsible for creating lesson plans, assigning homework and administering exams. Elementary school teachers cover the fundamentals of numerous subjects, while most middle school and high school teachers specialize in teaching one subject. Education requirements vary by state but may include a master’s degree and licensure.
• Instructional coordinator : This position emphasizes curriculum and program development. Instructional coordinators can also serve as representatives for their schools. These professionals usually have at least a master's degree.
• Reading specialist : Reading specialists are responsible for improving the comprehension of young students. They typically have a master's degree with a relevant concentration or specialization. Some employers also require reading specialists have reading and literacy certifications.
• School counselor : School counselors offer support to students facing emotional and academic challenges. High school counselors are also usually responsible for helping students apply for college. These professionals usually must have a master's degree and additional certification.

Licensure and certification

Master’s Programs in Education

Additional Information

• Download the Master's Viewbook

As you embrace the next chapter in your development as an educator, innovator, and leader, consider a graduate program that builds on a century of innovation, that’s grounded in the skills every educator needs, and that fully supports your current work and future aspirations.

At the Harvard Graduate School of Education, our master’s degree program is driven by passion and empowered by evidence. We share a vision of education where every learner has an opportunity to be seen, to be challenged, to excel, and to reach their full potential. We are motivated by urgency to build a future that recognizes and overcomes grinding systemic inequities.

Whether you seek to make an impact in early education, in K–12 districts and networks, or in higher education — or whether you want to drive educational change outside of those realms — you belong at HGSE. 

No matter which program you choose, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with HGSE’s world-class faculty, build a sustained community of practice and a lifelong professional network, and gain the preparation necessary to grow, advance, and become the type of leader that education needs.

The Harvard Graduate School of Education offers the Master's in Education (Ed.M.) degree in two formats —  residential and online — and in a variety of programs.

Residential Master's

HGSE’s  on-campus master’s degree is a one-year, full-time, immersive Harvard experience. You'll apply directly to one of its five distinct programs, spanning education leadership and entrepreneurship, education policy, human development, teaching and teacher leadership, and learning design and technology. 

Online Master's

Our Online Master's in Education  is a part-time, two-year, online program in education leadership. It is designed for experienced professionals who want to advance in their careers and deepen their impact. The online program in education leadership offers a choice of two pathways, preK–12 or higher education, that complement your career and chosen area of impact.  

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25 Best Online Masters in Education Programs [2024 Guide]

Some scholarships may be offered by your prospective school, others by charitable groups, or government-supported programs.

If you value knowledge, inquiry, and learning, and like helping others, getting an online masters in education is a good way to open up a range of career options in a very dynamic field rich in human interactions and networks.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

If you already work as a teacher or educator, getting a master’s degree will usually allow you to get immediate pay raises or salary stipends and make you eligible for leadership roles.

While most educators share a sense of social mission, open-minded curiosity, and an altruistic nature, you’ll also find that jobs in education reflect unique roles and specializations.

Universities Offering Online Master’s in Education Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

1. California State University – Fullerton

California State University – Fullerton offers both master’s and doctoral degrees in education.

Four of its Master of Science in Education programs are offered entirely online including the M.S. in Elementary Curriculum and Instruction, M.S. in Educational Technology, and M.S. in Education degrees with concentrations in secondary education or special education.

California State University – Fullerton  is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

2. Clemson University

The Master of Education in Literacy program at Clemson University provides students with in-depth knowledge of all aspects of literacy including curriculum, research, strategies, process and theories.

Graduates should be able to plan appropriate literacy programs and curricula and communicate information effectively to students of all ages and their families.

Clemson University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

3. Columbia International University

Students in Columbia International University’s Master of Education program can choose from concentrations in either instruction and learning or educational administration. Both tracks help students cultivate exceptional educational leadership skills.

Students should also learn to apply biblical educational theories to teaching, create nurturing school environments, and possess effective research techniques.

CIU  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

4. Florida International University

The Master of Science in Educational Leadership program at Florida International University requires 39 credits to complete, doesn’t require applicants to take the GRE and can be completed in 16 months.

Common courses include leadership in education, instructional leadership, school personnel administration, foundations of educational research, and other leadership-related courses.

Florida International University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

5. Lamar University

Lamar University’s Master of Education in Teacher Leadership degree program allows students to select from two concentrations: English as a second language or gifted and talented.

Both tracks are non-thesis degrees that blend the in-depth research, standard coursework, and hands-on experience needed for educators to become masters in their fields.

Lamar University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

6. Michigan State University

Michigan State University’s Master of Arts in Education program is one of the nation’s oldest online education programs. There are six concentrations from which students can choose.

They are special education, technology and learning, literacy education, sport coaching and leadership, science and mathematics education, and P-12 school and post-secondary leadership.

MSU  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

7. North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University offers several, 100% online Master of Education degrees in a variety of fields. These include, but aren’t limited to, training and development, various STEM degrees, school counseling, learning design and technology, elementary education, and community college teaching.

The school is affordable, and financial aid is available for qualified students.

North Carolina State University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

8. Northeastern University

Students interested in education at Northeastern University can select online master’s programs in either special education, higher education administration, eLearning and instructional design or learning and instruction. All programs are offered either part-time or full-time and can be completed in two years or less. Courses vary based on the program.

Northeastern University  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

9. Nova Southeastern University

The Master of Science in Education program at Nova Southeastern University has eight concentrations from which students can choose. These include selecting specific subjects (math, reading, science, Spanish), elementary education, exceptional student education, and curriculum and instruction.

The school also offers a Master of Science in Educational Leadership program.

NSU  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

10. Purdue University

Purdue University offers four different Master of Science programs in educational-related fields. These include curriculum and instruction, applied behavior analysis, special education, and learning design and theory.

Core courses focus on researching educational trends, best practices for educators, and educational leadership. Required credits for completion range between 30 and 45.

Purdue University  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

11. San Diego State University

Students enrolled in San Diego State University’s Master of Arts in Teacher Leadership program can potentially graduate in as few as 12 months. The program is designed for current educators looking to take on leadership roles within their schools that’ll allow them to educate other teachers in addition to students.

San Diego State  is accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission.

12. University of Alabama – Birmingham

University of Alabama – Birmingham offers multiple Master of Education degree programs and two Master of Science programs in education-related fields. All nine of the programs are offered online but may require students to visit the UAB campus sporadically. GRE scores are required for entrance into most of these programs.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

13. University of Central Florida

The Master of Education in Exceptional Student Education program at University of Central Florida is perfect for educators hoping to work specifically with special needs students. The program is designed for current educators looking to move into special needs positions such as literacy coaches, autistic teachers, or speech and audio therapists.

The  University of Central Florida  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

14. University of Colorado – Denver

University of Colorado – Denver offers a Master of Arts in Literacy Education program that features a concentration in reading and writing and has an additional reading teacher (K-12) endorsement included with it. The curriculum is designed to help educators become masters of oral language, reading, writing, and other English-related fields.

The University of Colorado – Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

15. University of Georgia

There are several Master of Education (M.Ed.) programs at the University of Georgia including programs in reading education, workforce education, design & technology, instructional design & development, and two educational psychology programs with different concentrations.

The curriculum varies depending on the program, and the school does not charge out-of-state tuition.

The  University of Georgia  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

16. University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign

Students interested in the Master of Education program at University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign have several subject areas from which to choose. The school offers bilingual and bi-cultural degrees, digital learning degrees, and six other education degrees.

Each program seeks to ensure teachers are exceptionally knowledgeable in their specific subject areas.

The  University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

17. University of San Diego

University of San Diego’s Master of Education program allows students to choose from five different concentrations: STEM, curriculum and instruction, literacy and digital learning, school leadership and inclusive learning: special education and universal design.

Each concentration requires courses in social justice, educational equity, educational research methodology and cognition and learning.

USD is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

18. University of South Carolina

There are several education-focused graduate programs at the University of South Carolina at both the master’s and doctoral levels. Whether students are interested in educational administration, physical education, STEM education, or language and literacy, USC has them covered.

Coursework is designed to mirror the high-quality work required of on campus students.

The  University of South Carolina is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

19. University of South Florida

Students at the University of South Florida have several options when it comes to education master’s programs including Master of Education, Master of Science, Master of Arts and Education Specialist programs in various concentrations.

Some of these programs are offered entirely online, others in hybrid format. Financial aid is available for qualified students.

USF  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

20. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California offers five master’s level programs and three doctoral programs in the field of education all online. The programs are all designed for current teachers, counselors, and other educators looking to improve their teaching skills and cultivate leadership skills to become effective leaders in their schools.

USC is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

21. University of St Thomas

The University of St. Thomas offers several Master of Arts (M.A.) programs in education, educational studies, special education and educational leadership. Each of these programs is further broken down into more specific areas of concentration. Both the M.A. in Education and the M.A. in Special Education can lead to licensure.

The  University of St. Thomas  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

22. University of the Cumberlands

The Master of Education Administration program at University of the Cumberlands has NCATE accreditation and adheres to all standards set by the CAEP. It doesn’t lead to licensure, but it designed to provide licensed professionals with a deeper understanding of the knowledge, skills and dispositions needed to become the best educators possible.

The University of the Cumberlands  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

23. Webster University

Webster University’s Master of Arts in Education and Innovation program seeks to turn educators into lifelong learners, global citizens, and leaders in curriculum design and education. A premium is placed on collaboration, real-world problem solving, and educational technology implementation.

Graduates should be prepared to become team leaders and learning facilitators.

Webster University  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

24. West Texas A&M University

Students in West Texas A & M University’s Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction program will take many courses in curriculum theory and history, multicultural education and human development. The program requires 36 total credit hours for completion, and students will take a comprehensive exam in their last semesters.

West Texas A&M University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

25. Wilmington University

The College of Education at Wilmington University offers several online certificate, undergraduate, and graduate programs in education.

Some of the programs being offered at the master’s level include programs in higher education, special education, applied technology, school leadership, reading, and school counseling. There are both licensure and non-licensure tracks available.

Wilmington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Online Masters in Education Programs

Your online masters in education can help you launch or advance a career in teaching, school administration, early childhood education, instructional design, special education, English as a second language, or bilingual education.

Those working in education usually benefit from graduate programs, but also pursue specific specializations and state certifications based on their professional interests.

Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:

Early Childhood Education

Educational administration, elementary education, higher education, special education.

Exploring your options may help you determine which academic path is right for you.

A masters in early childhood education can help give you the training you need to support programs for young children with proven, research-based practices.

In this field, you can explore fascinating theories of psychological development and identity formation. Your courses may include topics like how children develop moral beliefs, acquire language, or learn to read.

You can learn about common childhood challenges, disabilities, and developmental stages, and how to assess developmental progress and respond to special needs.

With a masters in education and a focus on early childhood education, you can launch a career working with younger children as a highly effective teacher, reading specialist, instructional coach, or ESL/Bilingual education specialist.

A masters degree can also help qualify you to work in early childhood program administration—leading programs and other educators in elementary schools, preschools, and childcare centers.

Whether at the K-12 level or postsecondary level, schools are actually very complex organizations. Perhaps you’ll want to focus on learning how to be a school leader.

School administrators promote robust communication links between staff, students, families, and community partners while helping give direction to complex planning challenges.

But that’s not all…They need to carry out the school mission and drive innovation amid layers of regulatory laws and policies governing instruction, hiring, budgets, equity, and special education rights and protections. Those outside the profession often fail to grasp just how challenging the job can be.

Getting a masters online degree in education with a concentration in school administration can be a great way to step into such a rewarding and challenging role with greater confidence. Your online master’s degree can be key in helping you qualify for administration and organizational leadership jobs, in both K-12 and higher education settings.

If you’re an elementary teacher, enrolling in an online education masters program can be a great way to move forward in your career. A master’s in education usually rewards K-8 teachers with salary increases or salary stipends, since most school districts link teacher compensation increases to continuing education.

Getting a Master of Education online can also help a teacher expand into new areas of teaching competency. For example, new subject matter competency or qualifying for a special education teacher certification.

School leaders also know that using teachers in peer-mentoring systems are a proven way to build organizational capacity in school settings, within sites and across larger school districts.

Teachers who take advanced college courses in instructional methods, curriculum design, assessment systems, and classroom management, are typically well qualified for these coaching and mentoring roles.

With your master’s degree in elementary education , you’re more likely to qualify for work as an instructional coordinator or curriculum specialist or transition to administrative roles with more confidence and success.

A masters program is almost indispensable for any teacher who wants to teach in higher education. An online masters in education can be a good way to get qualified to teach in a technical or vocational college or to teach foundational courses in four-year degree programs, or at community colleges.

Administrative jobs in higher education are also growing increasingly demanding and complex. Many factors today are creating new funding and enrollment challenges for colleges and universities.

Leading colleges today involves fundraising, legally and financially complex corporate research partnerships, navigating diversity and equity laws, free speech issues, budget cuts, and remote learning.

Colleges and universities can’t simply rely on tenured faculty to navigate these challenges. Today’s colleges need well trained, education-focused administrators.

With a masters degree, a concentration in higher education, and the right experience, you can pursue a career teaching at a number of postsecondary schools or in postsecondary school administration.

Assessing special needs students and providing appropriate support and intervention services are a central job of special education teachers.

A second aspect of the job is compliance with the complex laws and regulations that safeguard special needs students and ensure schools do everything possible to support their assimilation and success.

This means K-12 schools have an urgent need for skilled and dedicated special education teachers and special education coordinators.

If you have an interest in case management, behavior intervention, childhood and adolescent development, disability assessments, and coordinating with paraprofessional support providers, you may be able to provide schools and exceptional students with valuable support.

Online masters in education programs supporting special education licensure can be a great way to launch a life-time career in this crucial role. School districts are often eager to find qualified SPED specialists and retain them with good pay.

Masters in Education Careers & Salaries

Master of Education online programs are well suited for educators who entered the field with a bachelor’s degree and want to boost their job qualifications and or seek promotion in the field.

Many school system contracts reward teachers with pay increases based on continuing education credits and for advanced degrees. For many educators, getting a masters in education online means an instant pay boost, even in their current job.

For those interested in entering the field or promoting into new job roles, online education masters programs can be a good first step for launching a career in school administration roles.

Combining your degree with prior teaching experience can be a great way to move from teaching into a role as a curriculum specialist or instructional coordinator. Finally, a masters in education may qualify you for district-level K-12 administration jobs and for opportunities in teaching or leadership positions at postsecondary institutions.

Online masters in education programs will usually introduce you to advanced research as well. This means an opportunity to explore options for an eventual career in education research related to instruction, leadership, or social policy.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , your online education master’s degree should help you qualify for or excel in a range of school-related occupations:

While a bachelor’s degree may suffice for some of these jobs, a master’s degree in education is typically required for the best paying jobs, will likely reward you with pay raises if you’re already in an education job, and can help you qualify for leadership positions.

Choosing an Online Master of Education Program

Since working in education involves curriculum design skills, administrative concentrations, and specializations based on subject areas and age-groups, you’ll want to choose an online masters in education aligned with well-defined career goals.

When you compare schools and programs, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Access, flexibility, enrollment dates, and completion timelines
• Whether the programs are hybrid learning or fully remote learning
• How well the course outlines and areas of concentration offered match your professional interests and goals
• If the program provides direct support for your completing any state-mandated licensure or certification requirements (for the jobs you’re pursuing)
• If a master’s thesis is required or optional
• If the program includes a practicum, field study, student teaching, or hands-on action research (and what these components require)
• Whether the program and school are fully accredited
• If the master’s program participates in a local or regional school-to-work network or coalition (or job pipeline)
• If it’s better to attend a college in the state where you plan to work since many public school systems are shaped by state laws and licensing commissions

What you learn in your online graduate program is likely to be important for your success, so making sure the academic concentrations and resources align with your goals.

Masters in Education Curriculum & Courses

Whether it’s courses on social policy, a concentration in psychology, organizational leadership skills, or learning about ed-tech innovations, your education masters courses should cover a lot of ground!

Here’s a sample of the types of courses you’ll likely see in online education masters programs:

• Social and Cultural Theories in Education : This course explores education as a value-laden social and cultural construct while analyzing competing theories of education.
• Curriculum Supervision : This course gives aspiring education leaders knowledge and methods for assessing and monitoring curriculum goals and explores concepts for implementing fair and effective teacher evaluation systems.
• Educational Equity : Learn about a range of instructional frameworks for helping ensure the success of all students—differentiated instruction, emotional intelligence, learning modalities, the influence of family, and cultural background.
• Digital Classrooms : Learn about emerging educational technologies, including AR, VR, and AI, and their classroom applications, as you explore the intersection of technology innovation and instructional transformation.
• Contemporary Pedagogy : Learn about instructional themes and models that go beyond or supplement traditional instructional formats: project-based learning, flipped classrooms, 21 st -century learning, and collaborative learning.
• Organizational Leadership : Explore theories of organizational psychology and innovation-focused leadership for driving improvements to school systems and cultures.
• Student Assessment : Students learn about different types of student assessment and where they fit into larger school improvement and instructional designs, including special education evaluations.
• Education Administration : An overview of the rules, systems, and concepts needed to provide oversight of and accountability for staffing needs, professional development systems, budgets and spending, student services, school safety and emergency preparedness.
• School Law and Policy : Learn the ins and outs of legal statues governing instructional minutes, free and public education mandates, student equity and privacy protections, federal special-education provisions, fair hiring practices, academic accountability measures, and student discipline codes and procedures.
• Education Research : This course introduces students to a range of research resources, methods and standards, including action-research designs, for implementing evidence-based instructional practices and policies, for gauging the impact of existing practices, and for engaging in policy-oriented advocacy.

These courses make it easy to see why education is a fascinating field with a great need for people committed to pursuing ongoing professional learning in masters programs and beyond.

Admissions Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Education

In most cases having a bachelor’s degree will be required for admission into online masters in education programs. You’ll also need to provide GRE scores, if required. Some schools and programs may also want to see that applicants have some work history in education, usually as a credentialed teacher for several years.

Make sure you’re prepared to provide all undergraduate transcripts and evidence of a satisfactory college GPA (usually 3.0 or above) along with any required letters of recommendation.

Master’s Degree Accreditation

We strongly recommend you select from fully accredited schools and programs. The accreditation process helps ensure academic quality and consistency. Accreditation also means other schools and prospective employers are more likely to honor your degree and your achievements.

A school gets accredited by passing periodic reviews by a recognized accreditation agency. An organization such as the Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) can help you learn more about accreditation and identify accredited schools.

Finally, if you’re focused on teacher preparation skills, you might want to check out CAEP as well (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation).

Financial Aid and Scholarships

There are many types of financial aid to consider. There are federal student loan programs, work study programs, various forms of state aid, and a range of scholarships. Some scholarships may be offered by your prospective school, others by charitable groups, or government-supported programs.

Since federal loan programs, state aid, and some scholarship opportunities often require a demonstration of financial need, it’s always a good idea to fill out the free application for financial student aid ahead of time ( FAFSA ).

You may also find state or federal student loan forgiveness programs. These programs typically allow qualifying participants to pay off student debt more quickly based on years of service in the field. Finally, if you’re working in education already, you may be eligible for employer-based tuition assistance programs.

What Can You Do With a Masters in Education?

A master’s in education online can help you move from a teaching job into a more senior role as a lead teacher, instructional coach, instructional coordinator, or curriculum design specialist.

You can also boost your expertise in such areas as special education, early childhood education, or ESL/Bilingual education. An online education master’s program can also a great way to get qualified to move from a teaching job to a role in school administration.

In fact, different online education masters programs offer unique concentrations in the field. If administration jobs interest you, there are programs that focus on school leadership, just as other programs offer a focus on curriculum design, special education, or public policy.

If you’re not already working in the field, a master’s degree can help you hit the ground running with knowledge that should help you quickly become an expert teacher with opportunities for rapid advancement if you desire.

If you’re looking for advancement in the field, remember that getting an advanced degree may boost your pay, even in your present job. Finally, you’re likely to need mandatory state certifications or licenses, in addition to your college degrees, for most education jobs.

How Much Does a Masters Degree in Education Cost?

Tuition costs vary significantly by school. You can expect to pay between $350 and $1,200 per credit hour in online masters in education programs. A masters program typically requires between 30 and 36 credit hours.

School admissions officers will often be able to help you understand costs involved in your online program. Remember to weigh the costs of your online degree program against your anticipated earnings over many years of future employment and to look for fully accredited schools.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Masters Degree in Education?

In most cases, anticipate it will take you about two years to complete a Master of Education online program. You should find online programs offering accelerated study timelines too. Some programs, such as one year online masters in education programs , may allow you to finish in as little as 12 to 17 months on an 8 week semester with year-round continuous enrollment.

Keep in mind that many masters in education online programs will also require a research thesis. For capstone projects like a thesis, individual completion times may vary. Finally, if you’re in a program that includes a field study or teaching practicum component, be sure to include that step, if necessary, when estimating your time to completion.

Are There Any Affordable Online Masters in Education Programs?

More affordable online Masters in Education programs offer tuition rates between $300 and $500 per credit hour. If you’re shopping for more competitive tuition rates, we recommend you still take care to choose a fully accredited school and master’s degree program.

Finally, taking advantage of in-state tuition rates or special e-tuition rates for online students, regardless of your state of residence.

Are There Any Online Masters in Education No GRE Programs?

GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) scores are part of admission’s requirements for many master’s degree programs, but certainly not all. Some students prefer to avoid the time, preparation, and costs involved with providing prospective schools with GRE scores (often required with application packets).

If you’re one of those students, it’s true you’ll have to exclude some schools from your list, but you’ll still find many schools that offer “no GRE” or “test optional” admissions. If you feel flexible in your choice of schools, it’s possible you’ll find a no GRE online masters in education program that fits your needs and professional goals.

How Many Credits for a Masters Degree in Education to Complete the Program?

Most online masters in education programs will typically require between 30 and 36 credit hours for completion. Many programs will also require students submit a thesis or complete some other capstone project.

There may also be optional or required field study or practicum activities involved in completing your online masters in education. Finally, many education jobs will require state-governed licensure or certification as well.

What Can I Do With a Masters in Education Besides Teach?

There are many ways to support schools outside of traditional teaching jobs. For most non-teaching jobs, though, prior teaching experience is usually an important requirement. Job pre-requisites may vary by state too, based on guidelines or policies issued by state boards or commissions related to public schools, both K-12 or postsecondary.

Most teachers who have completed a master’s degree and are ready for new horizons and challenges will apply for a principal or assistant principal role, seek to lead curriculum planning, help with peer coaching, or work as instructional specialists.

Sometimes teachers can “learn-on-the-job” by taking a “special assignment” within their district. These assignments usually help fill a short-term personnel gap and provide ready opportunities for successful teachers to try on more advanced roles.

By moving into a special assignment—taking on an administration role, assisting with curriculum supervision, or mentoring other teachers—you can learn new skills that help qualify you for long-term promotions.

Is a Masters in Education Worth It?

Yes, a masters in education is worth it for many students. In education, training, and library field, jobs are projected to grow at a rate of 5% in the next 10 years (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Common careers for people with an education masters include teacher, instructional coordinator, K-12 principal, K-12 teacher, postsecondary teacher, and postsecondary education administrator.

For many teachers, an online masters in education will also qualify them for immediate salary increases or additional salary stipends. By combining successful teaching experience with an education masters, you’ll also position yourself for more dynamic professional growth going forward.

Getting Your Masters in Education Online

In today’s fast-changing society there’s tremendous pressure on schools to modernize and adapt. Both K-12 education and postsecondary institutions are facing dynamic change pressures at the intersections of social policy, technology, and economic transformations.

In your online masters in education program, you can learn lessons gleaned from decades of school reform successes and failures…and then you may be asked to help build the schools of tomorrow while serving the students who count on you today. Are you up for the challenge?

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2024 Best Online Master's Degrees in Education

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Want an online degree that's:

• Highly Rated
• Military-friendly

We've got them. Let's get started.

OnlineU has over 200 partner colleges that advertise on our site. Search results include only our partner colleges, which are marked with the word "Ad."  Learn more  about how we make money. ' > AD

Below is our curated list of the best online master's degrees in education. We prioritize the programs based on Salary Scores, which help you evaluate alumni earnings for each master's program. This way, you can make the most informed decisions about your future based on data .

You can rest assured knowing that all online colleges featured on our site hold institutional accreditation. View our methodology for more details about our list, or learn about OnlineU . 

Want an online degree that's:

#1 UMass Global

• Salary Score: Salary Score is based on median alumni earnings up to 4 years after graduating. It compares the median alumni salary for a specific program at this school to the median alumni salary for the same program at other schools, and scores range from A+ to B-. Data is sourced from the U.S. Department of Education" s="" college="" scorecard.="" '=""> A+
• Median Earnings: $81,724
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 7,734 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$13,030

Online degree: Master of Arts in Education - Teaching and Learning

Courses: Research & Evaluation Methods; Democracy, Education, & Social Change; Seminar in Learning Theory

Why we like them: UMass Global, boasting a 65-year academic legacy, specializes in adult education and online learning, consistently earning top rankings. The Master of Arts in Education with a Teaching and Learning focus caters to educators seeking advancement, offering financial incentives like scholarships, grants, and employer discounts. With fully online coursework, professionals can pursue degrees without disrupting their careers. One of the program's unique features is the possibility to transfer 12 credits from an approved induction program, notably for teachers in California. This can significantly accelerate your progress towards completion.

• Salary Score is based on median alumni earnings up to 4 years after graduating. It compares the median alumni salary for a specific program at this school to the median alumni salary for the same program at other schools, and scores range from A+ to B-. Data is sourced from the U.S. Department of Education" s="" college="" scorecard.="" '="">Salary Score: A+
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Financial Aid Recipients: 67%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $1,878
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 43%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 40%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View more reviews for this school at UMass Global ">Recommend Rate: 55%
• School Type: Nonprofit (Public)

#2 American University OnlineU has over 200 partner colleges that advertise on our site. Partner colleges are ranked based on the methodology listed on this page and data collected from the government, PayScale, the schools’ own websites, and non-profit sources. Learn more about how we make money. ">

• Median Earnings: $80,425
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 1,471 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$39,126

Online degree: Master of Education in Education Policy and Leadership

Courses: Educational Leadership & Organizational Change, Education & Public Policy, Economic Inquiry in Education

Why we like them: Preparing for a future in education policy and leadership at AU involves more than just acquiring knowledge; it’s about transforming passion into actionable change. The curriculum covers essential areas like policy, leadership, law, economics, and equity, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to effect meaningful transformation. AU fosters a collaborative cohort experience, enabling students to journey alongside like-minded peers. Graduates from AU's education master's degree earn salaries in the top 2% nationally, and the university has a high graduation rate of 93%, showing its commitment to student success. Additionally, 88% of graduates recommend the program, indicating high satisfaction and a willingness to endorse it to others.

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Financial Aid Recipients: 83%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $27,138
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 79%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 86%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View reviews of American University . ">Recommend Rate: 88%
• School Type: Nonprofit (Private)

#3 California State University - Sacramento

• Median Earnings: $79,866
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 381 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$18,422

Online degree: Master of Arts in Education (Curriculum and Instruction)

Courses: Transforming Curriculum in K-12, Power in Education, Action & Analysis in Education

Why we like them: This exclusively online program is designed for teachers and educational organizations, emphasizing classroom-based research to tackle the real-world issues instructors face daily. To begin with, this online master's degree in education program is among the top 2% in terms of alumni earnings in universities nationwide. This suggests that graduates are likely to see significant returns on their educational investment. Plus, classes are on the smaller side. Students are set up for success through close-knit learning communities and ample faculty support. Add to that an overall review rating of 3.93 and a recommendation rate of 91%; we're convinced that you're going to get a quality education.

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Financial Aid Recipients: 82%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $9,590
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 54%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 80%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View reviews of California State University - Sacramento . ">Recommend Rate: 91%

#4 University of San Diego

• Median Earnings: $79,552
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 970 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$28,878

Online degree: Master of Education

Courses: Educational Equity, Cognition & Learning, Educational Research Methodology

Why we like them: Designed for practicing K-12 teachers, this program is tailored to enrich teaching practices with an emphasis on 21st-century skills, equity, and social justice. Specializations such as STEAM, Curriculum & Instruction, Inclusive Learning, and School Leadership allow you to tailor your education to your professional goals. USD's program stands out not just for the content but also for its flexible design, enabling you to earn your degree at your own pace. One aspect we find especially compelling is the program's graduation rate of 82%, putting it in the 94th percentile. This high graduation rate signals to us that students are well-supported and successful in completing their studies.

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Financial Aid Recipients: 84%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $36,408
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 82%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 90%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View reviews of University of San Diego . ">Recommend Rate: 92%

#5 California State University - Bakersfield

• Median Earnings: $75,835
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 383 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$18,575

Online degree: Master of Arts in Education - Curriculum and Instruction

Courses: Teaching for Diversity & Social Justice, Educational Leadership, Curriculum Development & Transformation

Why we like them: Whether you're a current K–12 teacher or aspire to impact the educational system at large, CSUB's master's in education program is designed with your growth in mind. With a median earning of $75,835 for this graduate degree, which places it in the 95th percentile, you're looking at a program that positions you for financial success post-graduation. It also offers you the unique chance to earn a CTC-approved Reading and Literacy Added Authorization while completing your master's degree. With every faculty member holding a doctorate degree and a dedicated staff to support your success, you're equipped to not only excel in your studies but also to become a transformational figure in education.

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Financial Aid Recipients: 90%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $10,750
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 50%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 73%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View reviews of California State University - Bakersfield . ">Recommend Rate: 94%

#6 Southern Utah University

• Salary Score: Salary Score is based on median alumni earnings up to 4 years after graduating. It compares the median alumni salary for a specific program at this school to the median alumni salary for the same program at other schools, and scores range from A+ to B-. Data is sourced from the U.S. Department of Education" s="" college="" scorecard.="" '=""> A
• Median Earnings: $72,396
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 1,564 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$24,548

Courses: Curriculum Developer, Teacher Coach, Child Care Director

Why we like them: First off, we're impressed with their remarkable 90th percentile earnings median, which signals that graduates from this program go on to earn significantly higher salaries compared to their peers. Another point of admiration is the overall review rating of 4.41 and a recommendation rate of 95%, highlighting the satisfaction of current and former students with their educational journey at SUU. Plus, with the program boasting specialization options like Administration and Supervision, Curriculum and Instruction, and Special Education, you're equipped to tailor your learning journey to your career aspirations. The capstone experience further empowers you to apply what you've learned.

• Salary Score is based on median alumni earnings up to 4 years after graduating. It compares the median alumni salary for a specific program at this school to the median alumni salary for the same program at other schools, and scores range from A+ to B-. Data is sourced from the U.S. Department of Education" s="" college="" scorecard.="" '="">Salary Score: A
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Financial Aid Recipients: 99%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $9,369
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 52%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 71%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View reviews of Southern Utah University . ">Recommend Rate: 95%

#7 National University OnlineU has over 200 partner colleges that advertise on our site. Partner colleges are ranked based on the methodology listed on this page and data collected from the government, PayScale, the schools’ own websites, and non-profit sources. Learn more about how we make money. ">

• Median Earnings: $72,334
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 6,793 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$15,912

Online degree: Master of Arts in Education

Courses: Effective Teaching Strategies for Young Children, Overview of Higher Education, Instructional Tools & Design Processes

Why we like them: This online master's in education goes beyond traditional theories. It actively ropes in the historical, philosophical, psychological, and social foundations of education, preparing you to tackle educational equity and diversity with keen insight. It has an impressive median earnings ranking in the 90th percentile, showcasing the degree's ability to elevate your salary potential significantly. Moreover, NU stands out with its online enrollment in the 97th percentile and military enrollment at an impressive 98th percentile. For you, this means joining a vibrant, diverse, and expansive online learning community that's not only vast but also veteran-friendly.

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Financial Aid Recipients: 91%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $5,932
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 29%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 64%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View more reviews for this school at National University ">Recommend Rate: 47%

#8 Eastern Washington University OnlineU has over 200 partner colleges that advertise on our site. Partner colleges are ranked based on the methodology listed on this page and data collected from the government, PayScale, the schools’ own websites, and non-profit sources. Learn more about how we make money. ">

• Salary Score: Salary Score is based on median alumni earnings up to 4 years after graduating. It compares the median alumni salary for a specific program at this school to the median alumni salary for the same program at other schools, and scores range from A+ to B-. Data is sourced from the U.S. Department of Education" s="" college="" scorecard.="" '=""> A-
• Median Earnings: $68,455
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 1,939 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$29,811

Online degree: Master of Education - Adult Education

Courses: Survey Post-Secondary Education, Strategies for Teaching Adults, Workshop in College Teaching

Why we like them: At EWU, the Master of Education is an exceptional opportunity for those looking to advance their careers teaching adult learners. This 100% online program focuses on the principles of andragogy — the art and science of teaching adults. You'll dive deep into evidence-based research, learning effective strategies and techniques to engage adult learners across a variety of settings. The curriculum is designed to prepare you for a broad range of roles in post-secondary educational settings, community colleges, corporate training, and even military training. Interestingly, the program includes a 120-hour internship with a mentor, offering hands-on experience in your field of interest. Plus, instead of a traditional thesis, you complete a comprehensive exam and submit a portfolio, providing a unique way to showcase your expertise and growth.

• Salary Score is based on median alumni earnings up to 4 years after graduating. It compares the median alumni salary for a specific program at this school to the median alumni salary for the same program at other schools, and scores range from A+ to B-. Data is sourced from the U.S. Department of Education" s="" college="" scorecard.="" '="">Salary Score: A-
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Financial Aid Recipients: 96%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $9,200
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 67%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View reviews of Eastern Washington University . ">Recommend Rate: 89%

#9 George Fox University

• Median Earnings: $68,346
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 459 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$15,651

Online degree: Online Master of Education

Courses: Action Research, Special Education Endorsement, Diversity in Today's Classroom

Why we like them: This online master's degree offers four enriching specializations, such as Principal License or Reading Interventionist. Each is designed to cater to your career goals. Notably, GFU ensures a personalized educational experience, with degree plans tailored to fit your life, allowing the completion of your MEd online in just four to six semesters. The nurturing environment fostered by dedicated faculty shines through, wherein professors are not just teachers but mentors for life, guiding you through intellectual and spiritual growth. Such a learning atmosphere is rare and valuable, emphasizing the university's ethos of serving with care. Choosing GFU means joining a community where faith, hope, and love aren't just values discussed but lived out, making a tangible impact on the schools and students you will serve.

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $24,779
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 71%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 79%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View reviews of George Fox University . ">Recommend Rate: 89%

#10 Concordia University - Saint Paul

• Median Earnings: $66,666
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 1,842 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$8,550

Online degree: Master of Arts in Education - Educational Leadership

Courses: Advanced Twenty-First Century Teaching & Learning, Intervention in the Early Childhood Classroom, Leadership & Supervision in Early Childhood Settings

Why we like them: With a median earnings percentile of 77, it's clear that CSP graduates are well-prepared to succeed in the workforce. We're also drawn to the school's average financial aid package, which stands out at a generous $16,487, putting it among the top 24% of schools. This showcases CSP's commitment to making education accessible and affordable to all. The number of students enrolling online at CSP is also impressive, ranking among the top 16% of schools for popularity among distance learners. This indicates a strong virtual community, which is helpful for networking and support. And even though the overall review rating is slightly lower than we'd like, a 73% recommendation rate showcases a strong level of satisfaction among graduates.

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Financial Aid Recipients: 100%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $16,487
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 51%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 61%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View reviews of Concordia University - Saint Paul . ">Recommend Rate: 73%

#11 Point Loma Nazarene University

• Salary Score: Salary Score is based on median alumni earnings up to 4 years after graduating. It compares the median alumni salary for a specific program at this school to the median alumni salary for the same program at other schools, and scores range from A+ to B-. Data is sourced from the U.S. Department of Education" s="" college="" scorecard.="" '=""> B+
• Median Earnings: $64,644
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 336 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$11,880

Online degree: Master of Arts/Science in Curriculum and Instruction

Courses: Understanding Learning, Designing Effective Learning Environments, Educating for Equity & Social Justice

Why we like them: PLNU's program is designed for those of you who want to push boundaries to make learning more effective and inclusive. Not only does PLNU offer a flexible online format that fits your busy life, but it also gives you options between MA or MS tracks. This choice allows you to align your education with your future, whether you're looking to advance in your current role or prepare for doctoral studies. Unique to PLNU, the program offers strong local district partnerships, customizable authorizations, and focuses on developing skills that align with professional standards. PLNU also offers a lifelong network of support from their Education Associates alumni network. The overall high satisfaction is mirrored in its 100% recommendation rate.

• Salary Score is based on median alumni earnings up to 4 years after graduating. It compares the median alumni salary for a specific program at this school to the median alumni salary for the same program at other schools, and scores range from A+ to B-. Data is sourced from the U.S. Department of Education" s="" college="" scorecard.="" '="">Salary Score: B+
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $19,422
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 76%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 85%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View reviews of Point Loma Nazarene University . ">Recommend Rate: 100%

#12 Saint Leo University Online

• Median Earnings: $63,526
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 4,500 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$18,436

Online degree: Master of Education: Educational Leadership

Courses: Instructional Leadership, School Operations, School Leadership

Why we like them: The educational leadership master's program is designed for those who hold a valid teaching certificate, and it aims to prepare you to lead educational institutions and make impactful contributions at the building, district, and community levels. SLUO prides itself on a curriculum that is aligned with national Professional Standards for Educational Leaders. It spotlights three core areas: (1) Instructional Leadership, (2) School Operations, and (3) School Leadership, ensuring a comprehensive understanding. Although the retention rate and overall review rating might not be the highest, this program may still be for you if you're keen on introducing innovative solutions and enhancing effectiveness within educational settings.

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $21,053
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 49%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 54%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View more reviews for this school at Saint Leo University Online ">Recommend Rate: 61%

#13 Wilmington University

• Salary Score: Salary Score is based on median alumni earnings up to 4 years after graduating. It compares the median alumni salary for a specific program at this school to the median alumni salary for the same program at other schools, and scores range from A+ to B-. Data is sourced from the U.S. Department of Education" s="" college="" scorecard.="" '=""> B
• Median Earnings: $63,072
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 3,484 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$9,276

Online degree: Master's in Education (Non-Licensure)

Courses: Learning Theory, Educational Psychology, Child Development

Why we like them: WilmU's master's degree is a beacon for those aiming to excel in educational roles outside traditional classrooms without the requirement for state licensure/certification. With more than 10 of the last 12 Delaware Teachers of the Year being WilmU graduates, the school has established itself as a leader in educating top educators. The school also prides itself on its accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), which ensures that you receive a quality education that meets rigorous standards. Another standout feature is the overwhelmingly positive response from participants, demonstrated by an overall review rating of 3.58 and an exceptional 96% recommendation rate.

• Salary Score is based on median alumni earnings up to 4 years after graduating. It compares the median alumni salary for a specific program at this school to the median alumni salary for the same program at other schools, and scores range from A+ to B-. Data is sourced from the U.S. Department of Education" s="" college="" scorecard.="" '="">Salary Score: B
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Financial Aid Recipients: 55%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $5,380
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 19%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 56%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View reviews of Wilmington University . ">Recommend Rate: 96%

#14 Southern Nazarene University

• Median Earnings: $62,735
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 281 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$28,600

Online degree: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership

Courses: School Law, Technology Leadership for Administrators, School Site Internship

Why we like them: SNU's Master of Arts in Educational Leadership focuses on equipping you to shape the future of K-12 education by blending theoretical knowledge with practical insights. We're particularly impressed by the program's emphasis on real-world applicability and the opportunity it gives you to learn from experts actively leading in Oklahoma's educational scene. SNU's retention rate of 89%, placing it in the 91st percentile, indicates that this institution knows how to keep its learners engaged and committed to their educational journeys. Additionally, the perfect recommendation rate of 100% and review rating of 4.25 further reaffirm that the educational experience at SNU is highly valued by its graduates.

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $19,948
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 56%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 89%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View reviews of Southern Nazarene University . ">Recommend Rate: 100%

#15 Wilkes University OnlineU has over 200 partner colleges that advertise on our site. Partner colleges are ranked based on the methodology listed on this page and data collected from the government, PayScale, the schools’ own websites, and non-profit sources. Learn more about how we make money. ">

• Median Earnings: $62,428
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 2,886 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$26,064

Online degree: Master of Science in Education - Effective Teaching

Courses: Applied Research Project, Learning Theories & Teaching Strategies, Instructional Design

Why we like them: What sets WU apart is its commitment to blending current pedagogy and theory with the latest in instructional design methods and 21st-century strategies. The incorporation of up-to-date pedagogy aligns with the widely adopted Danielson and Marzano teacher frameworks, highlighting the graduate program’s alignment with current best practices in effective teaching. Also, the student review rating of 4.17 out of 5 total shows that students are satisfied with the education quality.

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Financial Aid Recipients: 97%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $29,441
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 59%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View reviews of Wilkes University . ">Recommend Rate: 67%

#16 University of St. Thomas - TX

• Median Earnings: $62,287
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 356 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$21,634

Courses: Curriculum & Instruction, Educational Leadership, Instructional Technology

Why we like them: What sets UST apart is the flexible online classes it offers, allowing for a balance between work, life, and study. The online Master of Education is crafted to cater to experienced educators aiming to become leaders in the field, encompassing concentrations such as Curriculum and Instruction, Instructional Technology, Educational Leadership, and more. Coupled with a 88% recommendation rate from peers, these factors signify a trusted and appreciated learning environment. This is complemented by an above-average median earnings percentile of 62.67, indicating that graduates from this program tend to do well in their subsequent careers.

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Financial Aid Recipients: 93%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $23,181
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 66%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View reviews of University of St. Thomas - TX . ">Recommend Rate: 88%

#17 University of Wyoming

• Median Earnings: $61,936
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 806 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$18,381

Courses: Leadership for School & Community Relations; Special Education Law; Assessment, Accountability, & Student Learning

Why we like them: This 100% online master's degree in education focuses on critical leadership issues in education, such as instructional leadership, curriculum development, and community relations, thereby covering a comprehensive range of skills that are applicable in the real world. UW emphasizes practical experience through a detailed supervised internship, allowing you to apply what you've learned in elementary, middle, and high school. Whether you're aiming to become a principal or explore other leadership avenues within education, UW paves the way with its comprehensive, accessible, and thoroughly practical program.

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $8,942
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 61%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 75%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View reviews of University of Wyoming . ">Recommend Rate: 87%

#18 University of Michigan - Dearborn

• Median Earnings: $61,730
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 957 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$26,946

Courses: Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, Instructional Technology, Special Education Assessment

Why we like them: UM-Dearborn's master's in education program is designed for working educators. It encourages you to strengthen your knowledge, choose a subject specialization, and expand your professional outlook without having to leave your current job. Specializations such as TESOL and Instructional Technology are fully available online, catering to your specific passions. With courses offered in the evening and online — and the option to earn additional endorsements — UM-Dearborn's program is flexible and diverse. It also has a superb retention rate of 82%, along with a 96% recommendation rate. These positive experiences reported by students reinforce our confidence in the program's quality and worth.

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $10,761
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 82%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View reviews of University of Michigan - Dearborn . ">Recommend Rate: 96%

#19 Saint Mary's University of Minnesota OnlineU has over 200 partner colleges that advertise on our site. Partner colleges are ranked based on the methodology listed on this page and data collected from the government, PayScale, the schools’ own websites, and non-profit sources. Learn more about how we make money. ">

• Median Earnings: $61,682
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 1,648 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$11,835

Online degree: Master of Arts in Special Education

Courses: How Children Learn, Applied Research Literacy, Reflection & Resiliency in My Life

Why we like them: SMUMN's online master's in special education is about fostering a learning environment that adapts to the individual, which is vital for a field as sensitive and nuanced as special education. You will learn how to create an inclusive learning environment, where barriers for students with special needs are actively removed. You'll dive deep into developing Individualized Learning Programs, a cornerstone for tailoring education to meet the unique needs of every student. Also, working with learners who have emotional or behavioral disorders will be part of your training. You will teach students with a wide range of abilities. And with a recommendation rate of 82%, it's clear that those who've already walked this path are more than satisfied with where it's led them.

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $30,091
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 65%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 78%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View reviews of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota . ">Recommend Rate: 82%

#20 Bethel University - MN

• Median Earnings: $61,438
• Online Enrollment: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, online enrollment data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional online enrollment information. "> 517 enrolled
• Annual Tuition: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, annual tuition data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional annual tuition information. ">$11,981

Online degree: Master of Arts in Education K-12

Courses: Teacher as Leader, Culturally Responsive Instruction, Principles of Organizational Leadership

Why we like them: With the program's completion timeline as short as 18 months, plus a thesis, BU-MN understands the value of your time. You have the freedom to specialize with concentrations in Educational Leadership, International Baccalaureate, Special Education, and Work-Based Learning, ensuring your education aligns with your professional dreams. The faculty, who are actively involved in K-12 environments, bring real-world insights and solutions to the classroom. This, coupled with the program's commitment to collaborative learning and a foundation of faith, provides a unique blend of practical expertise, spiritual growth, and global perspectives.

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Financial Aid Recipients: 98%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $24,586
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 75%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 83%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View reviews of Bethel University - MN . ">Recommend Rate: 79%

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What Is a Master's in Education Degree?

Generally speaking, master's in education degrees are designed to prepare graduates for careers in education outside of the classroom. The courses in these programs typically emphasize curriculum and instruction development, learning design, and the application of evidence-based research. 

Leadership is another common element of most education master's programs, enabling graduates to take on higher-level roles in education. However, there are also master's programs that are focused entirely on educational leadership.

Although it is possible to earn a generalist education master's degree, many schools encourage or require students to choose an area of concentration. Some of the many specializations available include literacy, educational technology, global education, diversity and inclusion, multilingual students, special education, gifted and talented students, adult education, and human resources.

Depending on the school, a master's in education program may lead to a Master of Education (MEd), Master of Science (MS), or Master of Arts (MA) degree. Although there are many similarities among the three, MEd programs often put a greater emphasis on developing administrative and managerial skills while MA and MS programs focus on curriculum development.

A similar degree to explore is an online master's in educational leadership . If you want the most cost-effective degree, check out our list of affordable online master's programs in teaching .

Degree Requirements

Prospective students can choose between earning a master's in education degree online or in person. Either type of program requires the completion of 30-36 credit hours. In general, full-time students often earn this degree in two years, while part-time students may need three years. 

To be accepted into an on-campus or online education master's program, applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited university . Depending on the school, they may need to have maintained a minimum GPA of perhaps 2.8 or higher. Some programs also require enrollees to have a teaching credential and some teaching experience.

With most programs, an applicant's bachelor's degree doesn't necessarily have to be in a related subject, such as a teaching degree, elementary education degree , or secondary education degree . However, incoming students without any previous experience in education may need to take several prerequisites. 

Many schools of education ask for transcripts, a statement of purpose, one or two letters of recommendation, and a resume along with an application. Some schools also require test scores, such as GRE scores. 

In a master's in education online program, graduate learners can expect to take a wide variety of classes. Below are some examples of the common core courses:

Family-Centered Education

Research shows that young students perform better academically when their families and communities are involved in the educational process. This course helps master's students understand the power of building supportive relationships, and it allows students to develop effective communication and collaboration skills that enhance the learning environment.

Instructional Design

In this course, master's students practice using several different instructional design models to develop competency-based instructional materials. This hands-on course requires students to apply their knowledge to real-world situations.

Learning Theories and Teaching Strategies

This course introduces a number of important learning theories and explores the instructional strategies that can be derived from them. Coursework may cover topics such as coaching classroom teachers, assessment practices, and the use of technology in instruction.

Applied Research Project

The capstone to many programs is a semester-long project involving primary and secondary research into an education problem chosen by the student, usually related to the student's concentration or specialization. The purpose of this project is to give learners an opportunity to apply what they've learned about data collection, experimental design, data analysis, and evidence-based recommendations.

What Can You Do With a Master's in Education?

For those who want to work in the education field but not necessarily as a classroom teacher, a master's in education may be the stepping stone to alternative leadership roles in the field. Depending on your career goals, a master's degree can also lead to additional education. 

Further Education

To be eligible for the highest-level roles in education, you may want to pursue one of two types of terminal degrees in this field:

A Doctor of Education (EdD) in Education or an  Educational Leadership doctorate  program is designed to give graduates the skills they need to take on education administration roles at the regional or state level. In addition to enhancing their managerial abilities, EdD students learn to use data and evidence to solve problems in the education system.

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education explores the process of learning. A PhD is usually the better choice for those interested in working in academia where they can conduct research on issues in education.

Another way to enhance your knowledge in a particular aspect of education without pursuing another degree is to earn a postgraduate certificate in education. Educational leadership, digital learning, special education, and literacy are just a few of the many subjects you can explore. These programs usually require 9-12 credit hours, and they can often be completed in less than a year. 

No matter what level of degree you want to earn, you can save money with online programs. Discover our rankings of the most affordable doctorates in education . 

Education Careers

Although some students who earn a master's in education degree follow a teaching career path , most prefer to work in education behind the scenes. 

One possibility is to take on an administrative role as a school principal. These professionals manage their schools' staff and facilities, including overseeing schedules, maintenance, and security. They also communicate with students and their families to support collaborative student learning and assessment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), elementary, middle, and high school principals earn a median salary of $101,320. 

Another option is to focus on developing curricula for a school by working as an instructional coordinator. Also known as learning or curriculum specialists, instructional coordinators support teachers by identifying educational resources, recommending teaching strategies, and training teachers to use new programs and materials. Instructional coordinators earn a median salary of  $66,490, which is comparable to the median for K-12 teachers.

Licensure For Educators

Generally speaking, most states require all professionals who work directly with children to obtain some type of state-issued license or credential . Each state has its own licensure criteria in terms of education, prior work experience, and exams. 

A degree from an accredited program is likely one of your state's requirements, which is why our list of the best online master's in education degrees only contains institutionally accredited programs. These programs may be accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) or a similarly authorized agency.

Before enrolling in any master's program, check with your state's education board to determine all of the qualifications you'll need to obtain a license to practice the occupation you have in mind. Also take care to select a program that will prepare you to meet your state's requirements, not the criteria for the state where your school is located. 

Financing Your Master's Degree in Education

Master's students enrolled in accredited online degree programs may be eligible for financial aid from several federal, state, and college sources. To determine whether you qualify for any amount of funding, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online form. 

Ideally, you'll be offered scholarships or grants, such as the TEACH Grant for future educators. These types of funding generally don't have to be repaid. Also, you may be eligible for some type of tuition reimbursement or financial incentive from your employer if you're already working in the education field.

Of course, many students turn to loans to finance their education, but these can get expensive. Before accepting a loan offer, determine the total amount of a federal loan  or private student loan by using our student loan repayment calculator . Keep in mind, however, that your job as an educator is considered a public service, which may entitle you to full or partial loan forgiveness when you start your career.

If you are on a budget, review our lists of the most affordable online master's degrees in elementary education and affordable secondary education master's programs .

FAQs About Master's in Education Programs

How long is a master’s degree in education.

Both traditional and online education master's degrees require the completion of 30-36 credit hours. They're designed to be finished in two years of full-time study or three years of part-time study. 

There are also a few schools that offer accelerated online programs, allowing students to earn their degree in less than two years. To accomplish this, students take back-to-back courses during shorter terms that may last only seven or eight weeks.

How Do You Abbreviate a Master’s Degree in Education?

The abbreviation used for a master's degree in education depends on the specific degree. Some schools offer Master of Education degrees, abbreviated as MEd. Other schools offer Master of Science (MS) in Education degrees or Master of Arts (MA) in Education degrees. 

What Comes After a Master’s Degree in Education?

After earning a master's degree in education, you may decide to pursue the highest level of degree — a doctorate. You can choose between a PhD in Education, which is centered on research in the education field, or an EdD that will qualify you for high-level positions in education leadership and administration.

Is a Master’s in Education Worth It?

Only you can decide whether a master's in education is worth it , including the money and time you will have to invest. However, the advanced skills and knowledge you acquire while earning this degree should prepare you for rewarding roles that often feature higher salaries. Having a master's degree will also make you more competitive in the job market. 

How Much Does a Master’s in Education Cost?

Colleges of education charge a wide range of tuition rates and other fees for their master's programs. However, according to the most current data from the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost of a graduate degree is $20,513 per year. For a typical two-year program, this amounts to $41,026.

One way you could reduce the cost of earning a master's degree is to choose an affordable master's program in education .

Bottom Line

In the education field, you have many opportunities to earn an advanced degree. Choosing a master's in education with a specific concentration will allow you to zero in on the exact aspect of education that interests you most. By earning the degree online, you'll have more flexibility in your schedule and the freedom to choose the best program for your career goals without having to relocate.

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Best Online Master's in Education Programs

Thomas Broderick

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated February 2, 2024

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Are you ready to discover your college program?

Masters in Education Online

Teachers with a state-issued license can explore online master's in education programs to enhance their careers. Graduates may work as curriculum designers, behavior specialists, or special education teachers. Some programs offer specializations in bilingual education and digital literacies.

Most programs require a bachelor's degree and recommendation letters. Applicants may need to meet a GPA cutoff. Full-time enrollees can complete a master's in two years.

This page lists the best online master's in education programs. Read on to learn about costs, common classes, and the benefits of earning a master's in education.

Questions About Master's in Education Programs

What can i do with a master's in education besides teaching.

Potential master's in education jobs include principal and district administrator. Graduates may also work as corporate trainers.

Do teachers with a master's degree get paid more?

Many public school districts give teachers with a master's degree an automatic raise. Teachers who advance their education further may earn even more money.

Can I complete a master's in education entirely online?

Yes. Many master's in education programs run fully online, allowing teachers to continue their careers.

Featured Online Education Programs

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

Why Get a Master's in Education?

Earning a master's in education can help experienced teachers further their careers. Graduates can use their education and expertise to guide schools or districts. The best online master's in education programs also help prepare students for doctoral programs or jobs outside the education field.

Online programs let teachers work while in school. Teachers can apply new knowledge and skills right away, helping improve student outcomes. Online programs also let learners choose from top programs nationwide. Degree-seekers can take classes without commuting or relocating.

How Much Does a Master's in Education Cost?

A master's degree costs an average of $66,340, according to EducationData.org . However, the cost varies by school and students' residency status. Learners pursuing an online master's in education from a public in-state school usually pay the most affordable tuition. Students attending private or out-of-state schools typically pay more.

Online learners save money by avoiding a commute. They also do not pay for campus housing or meal plans. Degree-seekers can explore tuition reimbursement to help make their degree more affordable. Some schools and districts pay for teachers' degrees if they agree to work in their position for a set time after graduation. Learners can also complete the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal grants and loans.

Additional Online Student Fees

Online learners should budget for expenses like a new laptop or upgraded internet connection. Many computer companies offer student discounts. Learners attending a hybrid program should also budget for commuting and parking costs.

Licensed teachers may qualify for endorsement after graduation. Earning an endorsement requires submitting transcripts and paying a fee. Fee schedules change and vary by state. Students can check a state's teacher licensure board for the latest information.

How Much Do Education Majors Make?

Master's in education jobs pay varying amounts. Instructional coordinators earn a median annual salary of $66,970, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics . This figure exceeds the annual median salary for all occupations by about $25,000. Professionals working for government agencies or K-12 schools make more than their peers at colleges or universities.

Geographic location also affects salary. Instructional coordinators living in Washington, D.C., Connecticut, and Oregon make $86,390-$100,350. Workers can increase their salary potential by gaining on-the-job experience.

Courses in a Master's in Education Program

Some master's in education online programs offer specializations. Options may include educational leadership and curriculum and instruction. Another option is instructional design. Most programs include a final-semester capstone.

See below for three common classes in a master's program with a concentration in curriculum and instruction. Please note that graduation requirements differ for other degrees. Not all curriculum and instruction programs use the same class names or academic requirements. Students should check with their prospective schools for more information.

The Reflective Practitioner

Differentiated instruction, educational research, how to become a teacher.

Aspiring teachers need at least a bachelor's degree in education . They can also graduate from a state-approved teacher-preparation program. Colleges and universities offer these programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Coursework includes pedagogy classes and student teaching. Degree-seekers can take classes in the content area they plan to teach.

Licensed educators perform many roles. They may sponsor student clubs, coach sports, or lead faculty teams. These tasks vary between elementary and secondary school teachers. Educators can stay current with the latest education best practices by taking professional development (PD) classes.

Licensure for Teachers

States regulate public education through teacher licensure. Rules and regulations vary by state. In California, prospective teachers apply for a preliminary license. Candidates need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited school. They must also complete a teacher-preparation program and pass at least one exam. Approved programs must meet specific curriculum guidelines.

Candidates who meet these requirements can apply for a single-subject license. California offers more than two dozen options, including English and health science. California teaching licenses cost $100 . Licensed teachers pay the same fee to add a new credential to their license.

California teachers with an initial license earn a clear license after five years. They do so by completing 150 PD hours . Teachers select PD classes from approved providers. Many professionals complete this requirement during the summer. Upgrading a license involves submitting PD paperwork and paying a $50 fee.

10 Best Online Master's in Education Degrees

The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy.

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. BestCollegeReviews.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

#1 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

• Champaign, IL
• Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: N/A

Cost per Credit: In-State | $510 Out-of-State | $510

Credits to Graduate: 32

UIUC's online master's in education can help you become a leader in the field. Designed for working educators, the program takes as little as 18 months to complete and doesn't require any campus visits. Enrollees may qualify for need- and merit-based scholarships. 

The curriculum includes accelerated eight-week courses that develop skills in leadership, critical thinking, communication, and digital literacy. Learners can work on research projects and present them in the institution's graduate student research conference.

#2 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

Johns Hopkins University

• Baltimore, MD

Cost per Credit: In-State | $1,525 Out-of-State | $1,525

Credits to Graduate: 33-36

Johns Hopkins's online MS in education policy teaches students to identify and address educational inequities through evidence-based policies. The program is available entirely online except for a five-day residency that takes place in Washington, D.C., in the first semester. 

Core courses include federal education policy, intermediate statistics, understanding education research, and education finance. The program also offers a three-credit experiential learning internship.

#3 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

University of Southern California

• Los Angeles, CA

Cost per Credit: In-State | $2,244 Out-of-State | $2,244

Credits to Graduate: 28

USC's online master of arts in teaching program prepares learners to get their teaching credentials in California. Graduates can qualify for education specialist, Spanish bilingual authorization, English learner authorization, or gifted education credentials. The gifted education track requires an additional four credits of coursework.

The program takes 11-15 months and includes live online learning and in-person teaching experiences. Students can choose from concentrations in multiple-subject teaching or single-subject teaching. 

#4 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

Michigan State University

• East Lansing, MI

Cost per Credit: In-State | $933 Out-of-State | $933

Credits to Graduate: 30

MSU's education master of arts degree offers six concentrations, including literacy education, special education, technology and learning, and science and mathematics education. Designed for education professionals, the program can prepare you for leadership roles in as few as 1.5 years. 

In addition to concentration-specific classes, students take courses like concepts of educational inquiry, a capstone seminar, and one class outside their specialization. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, three letters of recommendation, and work experience.

#5 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

Purdue University Global-Indianapolis

• West Lafayette, IN

Cost per Credit: In-State | $420 Out-of-State | $420

Credits to Graduate: 45-46

Purdue Global's online master's degree in education requires 12 classes that students can complete in as few as 1.5 years. Learners pursue one of three concentrations: educational leadership, teaching literacy and language, or teaching students with special needs. Core courses for all enrollees include transforming teaching practice, assessment in education, curriculum design, and classroom management. 

Students should anticipate spending 15 hours per week studying. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree and a minimum 2.5 GPA. The program offers multiple start dates every year.

#6 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

Boston University

Cost per Credit: In-State | $997 Out-of-State | $997

Credits to Graduate: 36

Students in BU's online master of education in curriculum and teaching must pursue a concentration to specialize their degree. In addition to subject-specific tracks like math, science, English, and social studies, learners can pursue concentrations in special education, elementary education, and English as a second language education.

Designed for working teachers, the fully online program features asynchronous classes with some live sessions. Enrollees can attend part time and graduate in 18-24 months. The program accepts applications year-round and offers three annual start dates.

#7 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

University of North Texas

Cost per Credit: In-State | $465 Out-of-State | $538

UNT's educational leadership online master of education is an accelerated program that requires 10 courses. Classes — except for the semester-long practicum course — run in eight-week sessions. Students can finish the degree in as few as 12 months. 

The program explores topics like student achievement, school culture, and successful teaching practices and helps prepare graduates for leadership roles in education. By taking an additional course — or already holding a master's degree — enrollees can concurrently earn a principal as instructional leader certification. 

#8 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

Martin Luther College

• New Ulm, MN

Cost per Credit: In-State | $325 Out-of-State | $325

MLC's online master of science in education offers emphasis areas in educational technology, instruction, leadership, and special education. Students can pursue these concentrations or mix classes from all four specializations to customize their plan of study. 

Designed for educators working in Lutheran schools, this Christ-centered program doesn't require any in-person sessions. Classes are asynchronous, allowing learners to integrate coursework into their schedules. Enrollees can take classes like family issues in education, foundations of ministry, and designing classroom instruction.

#9 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

National University

• San Diego, CA

Cost per Credit: In-State | $442 Out-of-State | $442

Credits to Graduate: 45

NU's online master of arts in education accepts applications year-round and features accelerated four-week courses. The program explores educational equity, educational research, and the historical and social foundations of education. Enrollees may qualify for NU's Key Grant scholarship and other financial aid opportunities.

Learners can pursue concentrations in areas like early childhood education, inspired teaching, advanced teaching practices, and technology. The program offers classes like developing fluency in reading, collaborative partnerships, leading and managing change, and instructional design.

#10 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

University of South Carolina-Columbia

• Columbia, SC

Cost per Credit: In-State | $572 Out-of-State | $572

Carolina's online master of education in teaching offers four specializations: literacy and reading, English for speakers of other languages, multicultural contexts in education, and project-based learning. South Carolina-certified teachers get a tuition discount, paying $515 per credit.

Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree from an accredited college, two recommendation letters, a resume, a letter of intent, and three years of teaching experience or a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last degree that you earned.

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Best Online Master's in Education Programs

James M. Tobin

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated March 13, 2024

Mitch Jacobson

Contributing Editor

Gabriela Perez Jordan

AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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If you're looking to build advanced or specialized teaching skills, consider a master's in education. These graduate programs help educators develop stronger skills for classroom management, assessment, and student development. They're also popular with non-education majors seeking an alternative path to teaching licensure.

Educators can pursue master's degrees to boost their earning power. In 2019, the National Council on Teacher Quality found that 92% of sampled school districts offer higher pay to teachers with graduate degrees. Payscale data from Feb. 2024 indicates a pay bump of about 6.6% compared to average bachelor of education pay rates.

This degree guide explains common features of master's degrees in education and includes a ranked list of top-rated programs. Use it to research and identify opportunities that meet your learning goals.

Popular Online Master's in Education Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Best Master's in Education Degrees

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

#1 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

• Champaign, IL
• Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: N/A

Cost per Credit: In-State | $520 Out-of-State | $520

Credits to Graduate: 32

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's online master's in education can help you become a leader in the field. The program, aimed at working professionals, runs fully online and takes as few as 18 months. Fall and spring classes run in eight-week sessions, while summer courses take six weeks.

Each class incorporates one synchronous evening meeting per week to foster interaction with peers and instructors. The degree offers six annual application deadlines. Enrollees are eligible for financial aid, including scholarships based on need and merit.

#2 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

• Chapel Hill, NC

Cost per Credit: In-State | $608 Out-of-State | $1624

Credits to Graduate: 33-36

UNC-Chapel Hill's master of education for experienced teachers offers a flexible, part-time curriculum to accommodate working educators. The degree has two modalities: fully online with late-afternoon synchronous class sessions or a hyflex model that combines online and in-person meetings. 

The curriculum focuses on evidence-based practices, high-needs learners, inclusion, and the role of family in education. This two-year program offers two pathways: one for licensed teachers and one for nonlicensed educators.

#3 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

Johns Hopkins University

• Baltimore, MD

Cost per Credit: In-State | $1,525 Out-of-State | $1,525

Johns Hopkins University's MS in education policy explores educational inequities and how to address them in the K-12 education system. The program requires a five-day residency in Washington, D.C., during the first semester, but all other classes run fully online.

Required courses include understanding education research, intermediate statistics, state and local education policy, and a capstone. You can also complete an optional three-credit experiential learning class in person.

#4 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

University of Southern California

• Los Angeles, CA

Cost per Credit: In-State | $2,201 Out-of-State | $2,201

Credits to Graduate: 28

USC Online's master of arts in teaching from the Rossier School of Education uses live virtual class sessions. You complete in-person student teaching in your local community and can graduate in 11-15 months. The program prepares you to earn a teaching credential in California. 

You can choose a concentration in multiple-subject teaching or single-subject teaching. If you pursue the single subject concentration, you specialize in English, science, math, or social science.

#5 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

Purdue University Global-Indianapolis

• West Lafayette, IN

Cost per Credit: In-State | $420 Out-of-State | $420

Credits to Graduate: 45-46

Purdue Global's online master's degree in education requires 12 courses and takes about 1.5 years. Designed for current and aspiring preK-12 teachers, the program lets you pursue teaching certification in eligible states through a partnership with the American Board. 

The curriculum explores diverse learners and classrooms, pedagogy, assessment, and professional responsibilities. Students pursue one of three concentrations: teaching literacy and languages, teaching students with special needs, or educational leadership.

#6 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

Boston University

Cost per Credit: In-State | $775-$997 Out-of-State | $775-$997

Credits to Graduate: 36

BU's master of education in curriculum and teaching program from the Wheelock College of Education & Human Development can help you strengthen pedagogical and content knowledge in your teaching focus area. You pursue one of seven content tracks, including options in English education, special education, and math education.

This fully online degree accommodates your schedule as a practicing educator with asynchronous classes and flexible live sessions. Students finish their coursework in 18-24 months. The program includes three annual start dates.

#7 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

National University

• San Diego, CA

Cost per Year: In-State | $16,416 Out-of-State | $16,416

Credits to Graduate: 45

NU's online master of arts in education degree explores educational equity, educational research, and the historical and social foundations of education. Courses run in four-week sessions and the school evaluates applications year-round. 

The curriculum offers classes like policy and accountability, instructional design, social emotional learning and relationships, and media-rich instruction. You can pursue emphasis areas like early childhood education, inspired teaching, advanced teaching practices, and higher education administration. 

#8 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

University of South Carolina-Columbia

• Columbia, SC

Cost per Credit: In-State | $572 Out-of-State | $572

Credits to Graduate: 30

The University of South Carolina's accelerated online teaching M.Ed. requires enrollees to pursue one of four concentrations: English for speakers of other languages, literacy and reading, multicultural contexts in education, or project-based learning. South Carolina-certified teachers pay a discounted tuition rate of $515 per credit. 

Regardless of specialization, all students complete classes like ideas and issues in teaching, developing as a professional educator, and an education research course. You must also complete an action research project relevant to your specialization area as part of the program's comprehensive assessment.

#9 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

Biola University

• La Mirada, CA

Cost per Credit: In-State | $698 Out-of-State | $698

Credits to Graduate: 37-65

Biola's online MA in education focuses on educational research, professional writing, and theory. The program helps prepare you for educational leadership careers. As a religious institution, Biola's teaching degree has a biblically integrated curriculum. You can graduate in 2-3 years. 

The program offers eight concentrations in areas like curriculum and instruction, special education, early childhood, and multiple-subject credential. Not all concentrations run fully online — investigate which options require in-person coursework before applying.

#10 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale

• Fort Lauderdale, FL

Cost per Year: In-State | $30,936 Out-of-State | $30,936

Keiser's online MS in education, teaching, and learning can prepare you to offer better instruction to your students and to take leadership roles in education. You can transfer up to 12 credits toward the 36-credit degree and graduate in 12-24 months. Classes run in eight-week sessions.

The program explores curriculum design, classroom management, instructional technology, and leadership. Required classes include continuous improvement and planning, problem-solving and critical thinking, advanced educational assessment and evaluation, and affirming diversity. You also complete a two-course action research capstone sequence.

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Did You Know...

The 2020–2021 National Teacher and Principal Survey found that 51% of K-12 public school teachers hold a master's degree, while just 38% have only a bachelor's.

What to Expect From Master's in Education Programs

Your program's focus will vary based on the concentration, degree type, and programmatic accreditation status. The curriculum may also depend on your specific undergraduate degree and whether the program includes a pathway for licensure or administration.

In any case, you're likely looking at a graduation timeline of 1-2 years of full-time enrollment. Part-time programs can extend this timeline by several years. Master's in education programs usually cover about 30-40 credits.

Typical costs vary, and they may depend on the delivery method. For face-to-face programs, you can use averages cited by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) as a guideline. Here's what graduate students paid on average in tuition and required fees, according to NCES data from the 2021–2022 school year:

• Public institutions: $12,596
• Private for-profit institutions: $14,161
• Private nonprofit institutions: $29,931

Online programs may cost less. According to the NCES Data Lab, graduate education students attending schools that offer fully online instruction paid an average of $5,187 in tuition and required fees in 2020.

Popular Courses

Master's in education curricula vary, sometimes significantly. Programs typically culminate in a capstone experience, self-directed research project, or thesis.

Highly specialized programs often cover topics that supplement or depart from the general classes described below. However, many education master's programs feature the following courses or similar offerings.

Learning Environment Design

Effective learning environments are built on more than just academic content. They demand careful consideration of social, emotional, and physical elements to establish and maintain inclusivity. Drawing on contemporary theories and current research, this course examines principles and best practices for optimizing classroom-based learning.

Innovation in Teaching and Learning

Modern technologies have had profound effects on student learning experiences. This survey course explores current and emerging educational innovations. Coursework equips learners with actionable insights on integrating technological innovations into their classrooms.

Curriculum Development

This foundational course explores approach-based frameworks for curriculum and academic content development. Students seeking careers in education policy or administration may find this course particularly valuable for its emphasis on diversity and inclusivity.

Instructional Strategies

In this course, educators consider teaching methods, student assessment techniques, and collaborative learning strategies. The course also examines ways to engage colleagues, parents, and students' peers in advancing desirable outcomes. Specialized education programs often configure this course to focus on specific student demographic groups. For instance, a master's in special education will likely emphasize instructional strategies for students with learning disabilities.

Advanced Topics in Classroom Management

Learners explore how teachers can build and maintain effective control over classroom environments. Course content may cover managing interpersonal dynamics, motivating students, and disciplinary issues.

Degree and Specialization Options

Master's in education degrees include four main designations:

• Master of Education: Typically favored by established or emerging full-time classroom teachers, M.Ed. programs emphasize practical training.
• Master of Arts in Education: MA programs typically cover a specialized content area, such as English or mathematics. Learners develop advanced teaching skills specific to their subjects.
• Master of Science in Education: MS degrees are similar to MA programs but often include a stronger emphasis on research and analysis.
• Master of Arts in Teaching: MAT programs engage students in a combination of theory and field training in classroom teaching.

Beyond these variations, you can also pursue a specialized master's in education. Popular examples include:

Early Childhood Education

These master's in education programs focus on students' critical formative years. They may cover birth to age eight or a narrower range, such as pre-kindergarten or primary grades.

Special Education

Master's degrees in special education cover the learning needs of students with disabilities. Programs may emphasize particular disability classifications, such as "mild to moderate" or "moderate to severe." Some feature an alternate focus on the unique needs of gifted students.

Curriculum and Instruction

These specialized programs maintain a dual focus on curriculum development and instructional methods. They typically balance theory and practice. Students may be able to declare subspecializations in areas like literacy education, early childhood education, or English as a second language.

Graduation Requirements

To graduate from a master's in education program, you must meet the degree's credit and academic performance requirements. For instance, a school might specify a B or C average in all core courses to qualify for graduation.

A master's degree in education often culminates in a capstone project or thesis. In a capstone, you'll complete a self-directed project requiring you to synthesize everything you've learned throughout the program. Thesis projects include original research-focused work on a targeted, relevant topic approved by a supervising faculty member.

Some master's programs also include practice teaching components. These usually apply to degrees designed for non-education majors. If they apply, you'll also need to complete supervised student teaching experiences.

Careers for Master's in Education Graduates

After graduation, you can pursue teaching roles and other career paths. In some cases, employers or state regulations may mandate additional training or certifications. For example, many states require candidates to complete principal preparation programs to qualify for principal licensure.

Here's a partial list of some of the roles other than classroom teaching that you can pursue with an education master's:

Educational Consultant

Educational consultants advise schools, school boards, organizations, and institutions that offer teacher training programs. Their work often focuses on implementing more effective educational strategies or addressing specific deficiencies or systemic issues. To build credibility in this role, you'll need extensive experience in classroom teaching and/or education administration.

• Required Education/Licensure: Varies by state
• Average Annual Salary: $66,120

Corporate Trainer

Businesses often seek to build a competitive advantage by integrating professional development programs into their operations. Corporate trainers design programs, assess participants, and track progress toward learning goals. They often hold master's degrees in curriculum and instruction.

• Required Education/Licensure: Some employers may prefer or require professional certifications in corporate training.
• Median Annual Salary: $63,080
• Job Outlook (2022-32): +6%

Career Counselor

Career counselors advise students seeking help selecting an educational or professional vocation. They provide aptitude testing, advice on schooling, and supportive guidance on specific career paths. Many professionals hold specialized education degrees in career counseling.

• Required Education/Licensure: Licensure requirements vary by state. Some employers may also prefer or require certified career counselor credentials.
• Median Annual Salary: $60,140
• Job Outlook (2022-32): +5%

Instructional Designer

Instructional designers specialize in developing instructional curricula. They may design entire education programs or focus on particular subjects, grade levels, or courses. Instructional designers also monitor advancements in educational technology and offer analysis on how to incorporate emerging innovations into learning programs.

• Required Education/Licensure: Some employers may prefer or require specialized professional certifications.
• Median Annual Salary: $66,490
• Job Outlook (2022-32): +2%

Admissions Counselor

Admissions counselors usually work for vocational schools, community colleges, and universities. Some private K-12 schools also employ these professionals. Their roles focus on recruiting new students, guiding them through the admissions process, and helping schools market themselves to prospective learners.

• Required Education/Licensure: Employers may prefer or require professional certifications from organizations like the National Association for College Admission Counseling .
• Median/Average Annual Salary: $60,140

Choosing the Right Education Graduate Program

To select the right master's in education, you need to evaluate programs in the context of your learning goals and career plans. First, determine whether you're more interested in a generalist or specialized degree. If it's the latter, seek concentrated programs that emphasize the topics and skills that align with your interests.

As you compare options, consider the following factors:

• School prestige and its reputation among employers
• Placement support for internships, student teaching experiences, and other practical training requirements
• The program's underlying philosophy or academic culture

Finally, pay attention to accreditation. Only consider programs hosted at accredited institutions. You can research a school's accreditation status using tools provided by the U.S. Department of Education.

Some master's in education degrees also hold optional programmatic accreditations. Accreditors of education programs include the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation and the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education . Endorsements from these agencies may signal elevated program quality.

Paying for a Master's in Education

Master's-level public school educators often earn higher salaries than those who only hold bachelor's degrees . Some states also require teachers to upgrade to master's degrees for licensure renewal purposes. For example, New Mexico features a tiered system with three licensing levels. To reach the top level, you must have a master's degree.

However, graduate degrees are expensive. Consider these strategies to help reduce or control your costs:

Seek Scholarships

Scholarships are ideal sources of financial aid. You don't have to repay them, so they directly reduce your education costs without creating debt.

Educational institutions, philanthropic organizations, private donors, corporations, and other organizations offer scholarship programs specifically for educators. Students typically qualify based on need, identity, or achievement.

Well-known scholarships for emerging educators include the James Madison Graduate Fellowship and funding programs from the National Education Association Foundation .

Study Online

Online learning can provide several financial benefits. Public institutions may extend in-state rates to out-of-state learners enrolled in online courses. In other cases, schools maintain separate, lower tuition rates for students in 100% online programs.

Take Advantage of TEACH Grants

The federal government offers TEACH Grants valued at up to $4,000 per year . To qualify, you must meet basic federal financial aid eligibility requirements and enroll at a participating institution.

Your aid is non-repayable if you:

• Agree to work for at least four years as a teacher in a setting that serves low-income students
• Offer instruction in a recognized high-need subject or field
• Complete your four years of teaching service within eight years of graduating

If you don't meet these requirements, your TEACH Grants will become unsubsidized federal loans.

Claim Tax Credits

The Internal Revenue Service recognizes Lifetime Learning Credits . You're eligible for these valuable tax credits if you pay tuition at an accredited postsecondary institution.

Lifetime Learning Credits allow you to claim up to $2,000 per year in tax incentives. There's no time limit on your eligibility, so you can claim the credit on qualifying expenses at any point in your education.

Questions About Master's in Education Degrees

• Collapse All

What kind of master's degree should a teacher get?

M.Ed. and MAT degrees are versatile and valuable credentials for active teachers. If you aim to specialize in a particular content area, you might prefer an MA or MS in education. You may want to pursue a concentrated degree if you're planning a career in early childhood education, special education , gifted education, or another targeted area.

Is there a difference between a master's in teaching and a master's in education?

Yes--but the differences are subtle and technical. Both program types explore advanced teaching techniques and theories. However, M.Ed. degrees offer particular value to established teachers and educational professionals looking to advance into administrative roles. MAT degrees are designed for learners committed to classroom teaching.

Which professional organizations should I join to help my career?

Well-known national professional organizations for teachers include the Association of American Educators , the American Federation of Teachers , and the National Education Association . Similar organizations also operate at the state level. There may also be local or district-level organizations in your area.

Do I have to be licensed or certified to teach if I have a degree?

Yes--you will need a license or certification to teach in any public school in the United States. Private schools may not require licensure, however. Specific credentials vary by state. For state-specific information, check with the educator licensing agency or state board of education in the jurisdiction where you plan to teach.

Is an education master's worth it?

Though earning an education master's requires a financial investment, many school boards offer higher pay to teachers with graduate degrees. However, some research suggests that teachers with master's degrees are not necessarily more effective than those with bachelor's degrees. In either case, advanced degrees can help you build a deeper, more complete skill set.

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Online Master’s in Education (MEd)

Online master’s in education programs that provide advanced licensure.

If you are a full-time, licensed teacher looking for ways to grow in your expertise, an online master’s degree in education with advanced licensure can help!

Our advanced licensure degrees are designed to not only provide you with a respected graduate degree, but to give you a specific skill set that you can use to increase your knowledge, boost your income potential, and expand your career horizons. Take a look at our specializations below to see which program is the right fit for your educational goals.

Administration and Supervision

Designed to prepare you for administrative positions in the education field

Liberty University’s online master’s in education degree – administration and supervision is designed to provide you with an understanding in functional administration by teaching you the tools and skills to effectively communicate and lead as a supervisor. In this master’s in education online program, you can learn skills in community relations, school law, financial management, and administration by practicing a variety of real-world situations.

If you’ve already earned your teaching license and have 3 successful, full-time teaching years under your belt, this may be the perfect degree for you!

What will you learn in the administration and supervision MEd?

• Curriculum and methods for middle school
• Finances and management of schools
• Principles of behavior management
• Relationship between school and community

Potential Career Options

• Assistant principal
• Curriculum instructor 

View the  Degree Completion Plan .

Apply Now     Request Info

Please note: Students enrolling in Educational Leadership programs after April 1, 2020, will not be eligible to receive Georgia Tier I or Tier II Educational Leadership Certification.

Math Specialist Endorsement

Designed to prepare you with additional training and credentials for teaching and developing math curriculum

Liberty University’s online master’s in education degree – math specialist endorsement is designed to help you plan and implement mathematics curriculum. This education master’s degree online requires you to have a math teaching license in middle or secondary education to earn the licensure endorsement.

What will you learn in your MEd degree in Math Specialist Endorsement?

• Educational assessment and intervention
• How to specialize in a math program
• Supervision of instruction
• Technology practices for instructional improvement
• Math specialist

Reading Specialist Endorsement

Designed to prepare you with additional training and credentials for teaching and developing reading curriculum

Liberty University’s online master’s in education degree – reading specialist endorsement is designed to equip you with the skills you need to become a reading specialist and to instruct you on how to plan and implement a reading curriculum. This Master of Education online degree will integrate education with specific techniques and tricks in teaching reading.

What will you learn in the MEd in Reading Specialist Endorsement?

• How to specialize in reading curriculum
• Reading and language acquisition
• Teaching content for reading
• Literacy coach 
• Reading specialist

Apply Now     Request Info  

School Counseling

Licensure-track for counselors in the K-12 school setting

For school counseling licensure, see the online Master of Education – School Counseling in the School of Behavioral Sciences.

A current state teaching license is required before you can earn advanced licensure.

All of our School of Education initial and advanced licensure programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation ( CAEP ).

Online Master’s in Education Programs That Provide Add-On Endorsements

Are you a licensed teacher looking to increase your credentials and prepare for new teaching endeavors? If so, add-on endorsements through Liberty’s online master’s in education program can help you reach your educational goals!

By honing your skills with a specialization in an area you’re passionate about, you may have a better chance of landing a higher-paying position or pursuing roles in settings that require specific licensure. We’ve designed our add-on endorsement degrees to meet the needs of the academic field – which means you’ll earn a degree that can make you even more valuable.

Curriculum and Instruction – Gifted Education

Prepare to teach exceptional students by studying aspects of the teaching-learning process

Liberty University’s 100% online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction — Gifted Education explores how motivation, methodology, and individual differences affect human development and learning. Pursue this program so you can better impact your classroom! 

What will you learn in your master’s in gifted education?

• Educational assessment for special needs
• How to organize and design gifted education programs
• Reading and research for gifted education
• The principles and practices used in gifted education
• Gifted curriculum director
• Gifted education teacher

  Apply Now   Request Info 

Curriculum and Instruction – Early Childhood Education

Prepare to teach young students in a program designed around the teaching-learning process

Liberty University’s 100% online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction — Early Childhood Education explores advanced curriculum centered on new methods of how to best understand the needs of early childhood education to teach required content with authority. Pursue this program so you can more effectively impact your classroom!

What will you learn in your master’s in early childhood education?

• Advanced childhood development
• Behavior management
• Current issues in early childhood education
• Leadership and supervision in education
• Daycare director
• Preschool teacher

Apply Now Request Info

Special and Gifted Education – Twice Exceptionalities

Prepare to teach students who are gifted, disabled, or twice-exceptional (gifted with a disability)

Liberty University’s online MEd in Special and Gifted Education – Twice Exceptionalities includes the steps to pursue add-on endorsements in Career and Technical Education (CTE)-Transition and Special Needs, Gifted Education, and Special Education General Curriculum. You can learn how to help many types of exceptional students learn, grow, and thrive – both in school and in life.

What will you learn in your master’s in special and gifted education?

• Best practices for creating inclusive classrooms
• Characteristics of children with disabilities
• Disability law and legal foundations
• Identification and education of the gifted learner
• Gifted teacher
• Special education teacher
• Transition specialist

View the Degree Completion Plan .

Master’s in Education Online Programs for Teachers

Influencing the next generation of students is a big responsibility. Maybe that’s why you are considering a master’s degree — to gain the skills and confidence you need to meet your personal and professional goals. Pursuing an online Master of Education (MEd) with us can help you gain valuable teaching and leadership tools that can be used to impact your elementary, secondary, or higher education classroom.

• Liberty University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ). 
• Our online education master’s programs can prepare you for careers in teaching and leadership in school settings. We offer both licensure and non-licensure tracks in education to help you meet your teaching requirements.
• Our School of Education is committed to providing quality education based on the principles of God’s Word. You can learn to be a positive influence in the lives of young people in your school and community and make an impact for Christ!

*Some exclusions apply. Please refer to our exclusions page for more information.

Average degree completion time

With flexible 8-week courses and no set login times

Per Credit Hour

One of the lowest full-time rates in the country for an MEd**

Why Choose Liberty’s Online Master’s in Education?

At Liberty University, we believe in our students — just like you believe in your students. That’s why we work hard to develop reasonably priced and academically rigorous programs that produce educators and school leaders who model high academic, moral, and spiritual standards before their peers. Liberty University’s master’s in education online is committed to providing you with both the practical and theoretical knowledge you need to become an effective leader in a Christian, public, or private school setting.

“Because Liberty’s degree plan allowed me to choose a lot of my courses, I looked up those required to fill a curriculum and instruction degree [in Pennsylvania] and took the Liberty courses most closely related to those. I sent all my coursework and course descriptions to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, took the state Praxis exam — and waited. I finally got that beautiful piece of blue paper with the gold seal in the mail! They are not requiring any additional classes. Liberty did it all!”  — Chris Mitcheltree ’14, M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction

You can also customize your online MEd program by choosing a specialization, which can provide you with more focused training in a particular area of the education field. As a Liberty student, you will have the opportunity to learn from professors who are passionate about teaching from a biblical worldview and offering encouragement and mentorship for their students. 

While all of your master’s in education coursework will be available 100% online, some of the degrees allow you to complete an internship — where you can gain valuable tools and skills to implement into your career.

What are the benefits of pursuing a master’s in education online?

Our MEd programs can help you take advantage of the increased market demand for teachers:

• With a master’s in education online degree, you may be eligible for higher pay than those who hold a bachelor’s degree alone.
• By pursuing add-on or advanced licensure, you may become qualified for new positions.
• With Liberty, you can start your master’s of education without GRE scores! 
• We are recognized by multiple institutions for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility. Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America . Earning your Master of Education degree online from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.

What can an online master’s in education do for you?

Gain the credentials you need to expand your career horizons! Not only can our MEd degree prepare you to better serve in your current classroom, but this program can also prepare you to pursue the following positions:

• Education counselor
• Program specialist in math or reading
• School technology director
• University professor

Looking for a degree that leads to licensure?

Many of Liberty’s online master’s in education degrees are available for advanced or add-on licensure in Virginia. 

Upon successful completion of Liberty University’s Virginia state-approved add-on or advanced licensure MEd programs, you may apply for your teaching license in another state through reciprocity, which may or may not result in additional requirements based on your state’s Department of Education regulations .

Non-Licensure Higher Education Programs

Pursuing a 30-credit hour, non-licensure master’s degree in higher education can help you to fast-track your professional goals. This program will be a great fit for you if you already have a teaching license, or if you are looking to work in an educational setting that does not require licensure. 

Imagine getting the credentials you need to make an impact on education at the college or university level in less than 1.5 years! You can even use an online master’s in education to prepare for doctoral studies down the road. Whatever your professional goals may be, an online MEd in Higher Education can help you achieve them in less time and at a lower cost.

Educational Leadership

Liberty University’s 100% online MEd in Higher Education — Educational Leadership is a non-licensure degree focused on preparing professionals for the field of postsecondary education. Gain the skills you need to effectively lead in settings ranging from colleges to educational agencies. 

What will you learn?

• Contemporary issues in educational policy
• Student support services and retention
• Technology in education
• College support office administrator
• Educational research team member
• University admissions counselor

Apply Now    Request Info

Instructional Design and Technology

Liberty University’s 100% online MEd in Higher Education — Instructional Design and Technology is a non-licensure degree focused on preparing professionals for the field of postsecondary education. Use this MEd degree to develop skills that make you more marketable in the growing field of educational technology and distance learning.

• Economics and finance of higher education
• Foundations of educational technology and online learning
• Principles of design and management in distance education
• Course designer and administrator

Student Affairs

Liberty University’s 100% online MEd in Higher Education — Student Affairs is a non-licensure degree focused on preparing professionals for the field of postsecondary education. Learn how to offer support services that can help college students thrive — both personally and academically.

• Critical areas of student support
• Current research in the field of student development
• Methods for optimizing student retention and performance
• Various functions of student affairs
• Educational policy analyst
• Program coordinator
• Student affairs administrator

Non-Licensure Curriculum and Instruction Programs

Whether you already have a teaching license but need a graduate degree for career advancement, or you plan on working in a private school setting, a non-licensure curriculum and instruction master’s degree can help. With so many specializations to choose from, you are sure to find a track that can help propel your professional goals. 

With an online master’s degree in education from Liberty, you can continue your journey in lifelong learning while gaining new skills you can apply to change even more lives for the better. Partner with us as you continue your mission to be the best teacher you can be!

Educational Technology and Online Instruction

Liberty University’s 100% online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction — Educational Technology and Online Instruction is a non-licensure degree that can help you develop distance education skills in technology, support, and instructional design. Become the leader in educational technology you are called to be by promoting productive learning environments designed for varying learning styles.

• Educational technology and how it relates to online learning
• Leadership in educational technology
• Technology and diversity in education
• School technology specialist
• Technology instructor

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Elementary Education

Liberty University’s 100% online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction — Elementary Education is a non-licensure degree that can help you promote growth in your students’ reading competence and math and science skills. You can learn how to develop appropriate assessments and elementary curriculum focused on these subjects.

• Elementary curriculum and instructional methods
• How to teach science in an elementary setting
• How to teach social studies in an elementary setting
• Children’s ministry teacher
• Elementary school curriculum developer
• Elementary school teacher (may require licensure)
• Private school elementary teacher 
• Sunday school teacher

Liberty University’s 100% online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction — English is a non-licensure degree that offers practical English and instructing skills, so you can improve your critical thinking, leadership, and literacy skills while seeking to advance your career within the field of education.

• English as a world language
• Methods of teaching writing across the curriculum
• World literature
• Curriculum developer
• English teacher  (may require licensure)

Foreign Language Education

Liberty University’s 100% online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction — Foreign Language Education is a non-licensure program designed to help provide you with the skills to teach foreign languages. 

• Advanced Spanish grammar and composition
• Classroom management skills
• Methods of teaching foreign languages
• Foreign language instructional designer for a business or government agency
• K-12 foreign language consultant
• K-12 foreign language curriculum coordinator

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General Education

Liberty University’s 100% online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction — General Education is a non-licensure degree that is a great choice for students who have related transfer credit. This degree track is also a great choice for students who are looking to customize an online MEd program with topics not covered by our other areas of study.

• How to understand educational research and assessment
• The foundations of education and exceptionality
• Administrator

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Health and Wellness

Liberty University’s 100% online Master of Education (MEd) in Curriculum and Instruction – Health and Wellness is designed to equip you with the skills you need to guide students to the habits and lifestyle choices that can help them succeed in life. From developing impactful health curriculum for high school students to training employees for healthy living, you can help make a positive difference in the lives of others with an MEd in health and wellness.

• Classroom management skills to motivate student learning
• Current issues in public health
• Curriculum evaluation and development
• Effective classroom communication and teaching methods
• Community organizer
• Education policymaker
• Health and wellness instructional designer
• K-12 health and wellness consultant
• K-12 health and wellness curriculum coordinator
• K-12 health and wellness director

Liberty University’s 100% online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction — History degree can help equip you to teach world history, American history, and European history. As a non-licensure degree, this program is especially helpful for Christian and private school teachers who want to expand their expertise and increase their marketability. If you already have a teaching license, this degree can help you pursue a pay raise or positions of added responsibility.

• American colonial history
• The history of political parties since 1896
• The history of the Atlantic world
• Primary, secondary, or postsecondary teacher  (may require licensure)
• School administrator
• University department chair/dean

Liberty University’s 100% online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction — Leadership is a non-licensure degree that takes our teaching and learning courses to the next level. By seeking to prepare you for various school leadership settings, this online master’s degree in education can help you pursue positions in school administration, education policy, and educational technology.

• Contemporary issues in education policy
• School leadership in diverse settings
• Administration specialist
• Principal/assistant principal (may require licensure)
• Primary, secondary, or postsecondary teacher (may require licensure)
• Policy and procedure developer
• University department chair

Middle Grades

Liberty University’s 100% online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction — Middle Grades is a non-licensure degree that can help teachers gain the skill set needed to effectively teach students in grades 6-8 in private or Christian schools. 

• How to work with young adolescents in their schools and communities
• How to teach reading skills
• Professional development in middle grades
• Middle school administrator
• Middle school teacher  (may require licensure)
• Private middle school teacher

Liberty University’s 100% online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction — Special Education is a non-licensure degree that can help you make an impact in the lives of students with special needs. By learning how to address each student’s unique needs and create a plan to help them succeed, you can take your career in education to new levels.

• How to collaborate for successful, inclusive classrooms
• The characteristics and assessment of autism spectrum disorder
• The foundations of exceptionality
• Para-educator

Student Services

Liberty University’s 100% online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction — Student Services is a non-licensure degree focused on preparing education professionals for roles in career counseling, individual and group counseling, leadership, and teacher support. 

• Human development across the lifespan
• Learning theory
• Principal/assistant principal

Urban Education

Liberty University’s 100% online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction — Urban Education is a non-licensure degree focused on preparing teachers to meet the diverse needs of students residing in urban communities.

• Best practices for working in an urban school setting
• Concepts of a differentiated classroom
• Culturally-responsive teaching
• Historical perspectives in urban education
• Curriculum specialist
• K-12 urban education director
• Private school teacher

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Licensure Specifics for Our Master’s in Education Online

This information is for our M.Ed. programs that provide add-on or advanced licensure only . In order to pursue our licensure specializations, students must already hold an initial teaching license.

Many of Liberty University’s online master’s in education degrees are available for advanced or add-on licensure in Virginia. Those seeking advanced or add-on licensure must complete a 3-credit-hour internship or practicum as part of the Master of Education online degree. 

Upon successful completion of Liberty’s Virginia state-approved add-on or advanced licensure MEd programs, you may apply for your teaching license in another state through reciprocity, which may or may not result in additional requirements based on your state’s Department of Education regulations .

Check out the topics below to learn more about how Liberty equips you for an online Master’s in Education with teacher certification!

Reciprocity

Hands-on experiences, gate process, what is reciprocity.

Reciprocity is when a state’s board of education sees another state’s licensing requirements as equal to or superior to its own.

How it Works at Liberty

Our licensure-track master’s in education programs are designed to support state reciprocity. If you are seeking licensure outside of Virginia, we have a licensure specialist ready to assist you with the verification paperwork needed to apply for licensure in your state.

After applying for your Virginia license, you can complete the necessary steps for transferring your license to another state.

Internships and Field Experiences

Practicums allow you to learn alongside K-12 educators as you observe and integrate instructional strategies vital in today’s school system. These course-embedded field experiences typically range from 5-30 hours during your course. At Liberty, you can choose a setting that aligns with your program and endorsement area!

During your final semester of an advanced licensure program , you will complete an internship to gain teaching experience and demonstrate your content knowledge, skills, and competencies firsthand. This will take place in an accredited school under the supervision of a licensed educator.

We provide you with a team of placement coordinators dedicated to connecting you with a placement setting that fits your unique career path. Our team has collaborated with schools in all 50 states as well as many international schools.

Gate Process for Licensure Programs

To guide you through your program and licensure requirements, you will complete a series of Gate checkpoints.

• Gate 1 : Completed when you are admitted to the university and enroll in an online master’s in education program.
• Gate 2: Serves as a status check for licensure track program requirements. This includes, for example, a background check, entrance exams, test scores, and acknowledgement of field experience requirements.
• Gate 3 : Submit your application for capstone course enrollment. If you are seeking licensure, Gate 3 also includes submission of program and licensure requirements (i.e., licensure assessments, etc.) to be eligible for internships.
• Gate 4 : The final step for students seeking licensure. Consists of program completion and state licensure application.

At each Gate, coordinators stand ready to assist and support you!

Providing World-Class Education to Military Students Across the Globe

Whether you are a current service member, discharged or retired from service, or the spouse of a service member or veteran, we are here to support you every step of the journey. As a small token of our thanks for your dedication and service to our country, Liberty is honored to serve and support you by offering the following benefits:

• Tuition discounts — $275 per credit hour for graduate courses
• Additional discount for veterans who serve in a civilian capacity as a First Responder (less than $625 per course)
• 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)

Admission Requirements for Liberty’s Online Education Master’s Programs

A regionally or nationally accredited bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of a 2.5 is required for admission in good standing. Please visit our admission requirements page for more detailed admissions-related information.

All applicants must submit the following:

• Admission application
• Application fee*
• Official college transcripts
• Unofficial college transcripts may be accepted with a completed official transcript request form**
• Proof of English proficiency (for applicants whose native language is other than English)

* There is no upfront application fee; however, a deferred $50 application fee will be assessed during Financial Check-In. This fee is waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required.

** An official transcript is needed within 60 days of acceptance or before non-attendance drops for the first set of matriculated classes, whichever comes first.

Transfer Policies

At Liberty, we want to help you make the most of your prior education by allowing you to transfer in previously earned college credit. That’s why you can transfer in up to 50% of your total credits for a master’s or doctoral program!

Some restrictions apply. Please visit our   Transfer Policy   page for more information.

*Some restrictions may occur for this promotion to apply. This promotion also excludes active faculty and staff, military, Non-Degree Seeking, DGIA, Continuing Education, WSB, and Certificates.

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Master of Education (MED)

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Next Start Date: May 13, 2024

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Curriculum and instruction: middle grades, higher education: educational leadership.

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You have to have a lot of self-motivation and self-discipline when you are going to school online, but the amazing thing is at Liberty you do not need to do it by yourself. You really do have resources like someone who is going to school on campus.

– Janae Fleming ’15, B.S. in Education

Editor’s Picks: The 11 Best 1-Year Online Masters in Education Programs

A master’s degree in education can open doors and fast-track careers in the field, along with giving you the deep and broad knowledge of theories and techniques in instruction, leadership, and specific subjects that would put you at the cutting edge of education.

A master’s degree in education goes by many names with many different acronyms, whether it’s a Master of Education (M.Ed. or Ed.M.), Master of Arts in education (M.A.Ed. or M.A.E.), or Master of Science in education (M.Sc.Ed. or M.S.E.). Any one of those sets of letters after your name can position you to move ahead in education as an educator, administrator, counselor, or in other roles.

Which master’s in education program is right for you depends on what you want out of it, with majors ranging from teaching to school psychology to leadership. What’s best for one person may not be best for another, and what one school does best could be entirely different from what another is great at accomplishing.

How We Selected the Best 1-Year Online Master’s in Education Programs

Selecting a list of the “best” programs is a subjective exercise, not a science. What truly matters is your unique interests and goals and how the right program for you lines up exactly with what you want to do with your teaching career. Your graduate experience will be an individual one, and so choosing your school will be a very individual decision.

Is it an ESL add-on endorsement that you’re interested in? Do you want to be able to serve special needs students better? Are you interested in curriculum development or preparing yourself for a higher-level view of educational quality with a degree that focuses on leadership?

Those questions are up to you to answer. Where we step in is to help make sure that you’re able to choose from a list of programs that have been carefully reviewed and vetted as having the general characteristics anyone would expect from a top quality one-year master’s in education:

• Individualized mentorship
• Career guidance, career fairs and other job placement services
• Close connections with the school community to ensure diverse placements for student teaching
• Experienced and dedicated instructors with research and publication credits
• Hosts keynote speakers in education and other enriching events for educators
• Strong student teacher community, including student clubs and organizations
• Supportive and successful alumni network that you will become a part of yourself after graduation

Some of these programs are teacher prep options for initial licensure designed for career changers that already hold bachelor’s degrees in other fields, but most are designed for existing teachers looking to advance in their careers, qualify for advanced licensure, and get the education they need for add-on endorsements in high-needs areas like ESL and special education.

But they all have two things in common: All offer a top-quality education that checks all the boxes listed above, and all can be completed at an accelerated pace.

A Master’s in Education in Just One Year

Some programs may take a bit longer than a year, with degrees earned in about 18 months, while others will wrap-up even quicker and have you ready to begin or advance your career in education at that one-year mark.

To discover the 1 year online master’s in education programs best for you, look no further than the schools right here on this list.

Liberty University–Master’s in Education

Degree: Master’s in Education (M.Ed.)

Time to complete: 18 months

Accreditation: National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education through the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

Also offers M.Ed. programs in:

• Curriculum and Instruction: Elementary Education
• Curriculum and Instruction: Leadership
• Curriculum and Instruction: Middle Grades
• Higher Education: Educational Leadership
• Religious Education (MA)

Programs available with advanced licensure and add-on licensure in:

• Administration and Supervision
• Math Specialist Endorsement
• Reading Specialist Endorsement
• School Counseling
• Curriculum and Instruction: Gifted Education
• Curriculum and Instruction: Early Childhood Education

Liberty University offers online master’s in education degrees for teachers in elementary, secondary, and higher education classrooms. Liberty University is an accredited liberal arts college with an evangelical Christian affiliation. Liberty University isn’t new to distance education; they began a distance learning program back in 1985 and have seen their online programs continue to grow.

Walden University–Master of Science in Education

Degree: Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.)

Time to complete: 12 months

Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

Concentration Options Include:

• Curriculum Instruction and Assessment
• Educational Leadership Administration
• Educational Leadership Administration (International Non-Licensure)
• Elementary Reading and Literacy
• Elementary Reading and Mathematics
• Integrating Technology in the Classroom
• Mathematics (5-8)
• Mathematics and Science (K-8)
• Mathematics (K-6)
• MSED One-Credit Elementary Education (Non-Licensure)
• Science (K-8)
• Self-Designed
• Special Education (Non-Licensure) (K-12)
• STEM Education (K-8)
• Teacher Leadership

In addition to the Master of Science specializations, Walden University also offers a Master of Arts in Teaching–Special Education.

Walden University is an online institution that has been around for more than 50 years. A university that was established by two teachers, Bernie and Rita Turner, to offer advanced degree programs to working adults and teachers was set up from the start to be ideal for educators to pursue master’s degrees and beyond in education. The Master of Science in Education degree was designed specifically for working teachers and implements an evidence-based approach to solving educational challenges.

Notre Dame College–Master of Education

Degree: Master of Education (M.Ed.)

Time to complete: 1 to 2 years

• Curriculum and Instruction
• Intervention Specialist Licensure for Mild/Moderate Needs (K-12)
• Educational Leadership
• Reading and Literacy

Notre Dame College is a Catholic liberal arts institution. Founded in 1922, Notre Dame College began its Master of Education program 30 years ago to prepare students for teaching and administrative careers and lead to licensure and enhancements of licensure.

The University of West Alabama–Master of Education

Degree: Master of Education in Learning, Design, and Technology (M.Ed.)

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Also Offers M.Ed. Programs in:

• Early Childhood Development
• Early Childhood Education (P-3)
• Elementary Education (K-6)
• High School (6-12)
• Instructional Leadership
• Library Media
• Physical Education (P-13)
• Special Education Collaborative Teacher (6-12)
• Special Education Collaborative Teacher (K-6)
• Student Affairs in Higher Education

Founded in 1835, the University of West Alabama has a long history of education reform and teacher education. The Master of Education in Learning, Design, and Technology is unique in that it prepares graduates for careers in learning and corporate environments in positions such as instructional technology director, technology coach, course design specialist, or professional development and training facilitator.

Southern New Hampshire University-Master’s in Education in Curriculum and Instruction

Degree: Master’s in Education in Curriculum and Instruction (M.Ed.)

Time to complete: 15 months

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

• Dyslexia and Language-Based Disabilities
• Online Teaching
• Special Education
• Technology Integration

Southern New Hampshire University has over 135,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the country and is known for its innovation and excellence in distance learning. SNHU’s Master of Education program readies graduates for leadership in the field who can design outcome-driven and culturally inclusive learning experiences.

Northcentral University-Master of Education

Time to complete: 12-16 months

Accreditation: Council on Higher Education Accreditation, WASC Senior College and University Commission

• Adult Learning and Workforce Education
• Athletic Coaching
• Corporate Wellness
• Curriculum and Teaching
• Early Childhood Education
• English Language Learning
• General Education
• Global Training and Development
• International Education
• Leadership in Higher Education
• Organizational Leadership
• Reading Education
• Sport and Athletic Management
• Social Emotional Learning
• School Safety, Security, and Emergency Management
• Trauma-Informed Educational Practices

Northcentral University is a young institution founded in 1996 that serves working professionals around the world. Northcentral’s Master of Education program focuses on leadership skills for roles with increased responsibilities in positions from preschool through 12 th grade as well as in higher education.

University of Washington-Master of Education

Time to complete: 1-2 years

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

• BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) Pathways
• Curriculum and Instruction: Excellence in Content Instruction
• Early Childhood Special Education
• Education Policy
• Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership Studies
• High Incidence Teacher Education
• Intercollegiate Athletics
• Learning Sciences and Human Development
• Low Incidence Teacher Education
• Teacher Education
• Measurement and Statistics
• Multicultural Education
• Social and Cultural Foundations

One of the oldest universities on the West Coast, the University of Washington offers intermediate-level graduate training in its Master of Education programs preparing students for either professional advancement or further graduate studies. In addition to the degree programs, the university offers valuable mentoring and networking opportunities.

Colorado State University–Master of Education in Education and Human Resource Studies

Degree: Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Education and Human Resource Studies and teacher licensure

Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission

Classes in the program include:

• Curriculum Development
• Models of Teaching
• Interdisciplinary Methods
• Action Research
• Teacher Licensure Seminar
• Teacher Licensure Internship

Colorado State University offers flexible learning plans with a dedication to supporting its online students. The university’s master’s degree program in education, offered by their Center for Educator Preparation, focuses on strengthening pedagogical skills and teaching theories of learning. The intensive program lets you complete a master’s degree and Colorado teacher licensure in just 12 months and to focus on either early childhood education or secondary education.

St. Thomas University–Master of Science in Educational Leadership

Degree: Master of Science in Educational Leadership (M.S.E.L.)

A Catholic college established 60 years ago, St. Thomas University offers an online master’s degree in Educational Leadership that teaches students how to review, analyze, and apply concepts in leadership to their careers in education. The program focuses on competency in leadership skills, problem solving, implementing change, and ethical decision making.

Louisiana State University Shreveport–Master of Education in Educational Leadership

Degree: Master of Education in Educational Leadership (M.ED.L.)

Also offers an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction (M.ED.C.I.).

Founded in 1967, Louisiana State University Shreveport has offered Master of Education studies since 1978. LSUS’s Master of Education in Educational Leadership provides real-world learning for advancing education management and leadership skills with a curriculum that focuses on schoolwide planning, management logistics, and allocating financial resources. Students choose between two concentrations: General and Teacher Leader.

University of Southern California–Master of Arts in Teaching

Degree: Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.)

The University of Southern California’s Rossier School of Education offers a master’s degree in teaching designed for K-12 teachers that combines theory, practice, and mastery. The program, which is offered either on campus in Los Angeles or online, is integrated with preparation for California teaching credentialing in multiple subjects or a single subject (English, math, science, or social studies). The degree from this leading university will put you at a competitive advantage as a skilled and well-educated teacher. In addition to preparing for the California Teaching Credential, the program allows you to simultaneously earn a California Preliminary Education Specialist Credential, California Bilingual Authorization for Spanish, or Gifted Education Certificate.

The Benefits of a One-Year Online Master’s in Education Program

When you get down to the brass tacks, the benefits of a one-year master’s degree in education checks three very important boxes:

• It’s quick and affordable
• It advances your general expertise or allows you to specialize
• It can lead to initial certification, or if you’re already licensed, career advancement

Nobody these days has a lot of time to spend earning a degree, and the best schools know this, offering accelerated options that help people meet their goals in less time and at a lower cost.

Many of these programs are for licensed teachers, already working in the classroom by day and earning a master’s on their own time for advanced licensure and career advancement. Some are designed for initial licensure, and those aspiring teachers are eager to enter the workforce and begin their careers in education as soon as possible.

Many roles in the schools outside of the classroom require at least a master’s degree. Teachers and others looking to become school counselors or administrators earn advanced degrees like this as a matter of course, and after four years of undergraduate work behind them, doing it at an accelerated pace just makes sense.

While earning a master’s in education gives everyone a broader understanding of education in general, it also allows for specialization within the field. And specializing can make you even more invaluable to both students and your institution as you gain an expert understanding of topics like educational technology, literacy, special education, ESL or child development, as well as learning strategies in teaching and leadership techniques.

Improving your skills as an educator isn’t the only benefit of completing a master’s in education program. With a master’s degree salary , educators of all types can see a boost in their paychecks, and their quality of life. On top of that, many schools, both public and private, offer incentives for teachers to go back to school for a master’s degree, often easily offsetting the cost.

Types of Online Master’s in Education Courses

So, what curriculum can you expect from 1 year online master’s in education programs? Well, one size does not fit all for master’s degrees in education.

You’ll see variations in courses depending on whether you are earning an education master’s in specialized areas such as curriculum and instruction, special education, education technology, or adult education, among the many other options. Some programs are designed for teaching specific subjects like music, math, or reading, and others are for people planning to go into administration, adult education and student affairs.

Some common class topics for master’s programs in education include:

• Education policy
• Teaching and learning theories
• Educational research methodology
• Ethical leadership and school reform
• Educational equity and social justice
• Instructional leadership
• Continuing education
• Special education
• Child psychology
• Child development
• Preparation for doctoral degrees in education

Online Master’s in Education Degree Career Paths

Teaching isn’t the only career path that can quickly become more accessible with an accelerated master’s in education online, although it’s certainly one that can benefit greatly from an advanced degree.

• Special education teachers have expertise in serving the unique needs of students on IEPs (Individualized Education Plans) due to disabilities, cognitive delays or behavioral disorders. After their graduate experience, they are better able to help these students cope with and overcome barriers to learning and social integration. Some special education teachers even specialize in specific subsets, namely autism spectrum disorder.
• As the leaders of schools and school districts, principals and administrators have a strong hand in influencing the learning systems and culture of their schools. Administrators need a deep understanding of all aspects of education to effectively manage schools, advise teachers, shape curriculum, and ensure students are receiving the best education possible. A master’s degree or higher is required to be hired into school administration in many states.
• To become a school counselor, a master’s is the standard minimum. A 1 year online master’s in education degree with a school counseling will meet the pre-requisite for licensure. These programs provide in-school practicum experiences designed to prepare school counselors to help students achieve optimal outcomes and cope with stressors and conflict.

You’ll find a one-year master’s program for teachers in every one of these areas.

Careers for graduates with master’s degrees in education are even available outside the school system. Educational coordinators at museums or zoos, a corporate trainers, or curriculum developers for any number of educational programs or publications can also benefit from the skills and knowledge gained in an accelerated online master’s degree in education.

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Master of Science

Educational Leadership Master's

Make an impact on the future of education by becoming a school principal.

Are you an experienced, licensed teacher eager to take on new challenges? Perhaps it’s time you prepared to lead an institution of your own. Becoming a principal or educational administrator with this online educational license program will prepare you to change the future of education and impact students, teachers, and communities alike.

This online master's degree program is designed to enhance your expertise in educational governance, finance, law, leadership, and strategic planning. The program will give you the skills you need to manage a modern educational institution, including overseeing teachers, developing and implementing curriculum standards, and improving how your staff helps students achieve established academic goals. You'll also learn about school administration, how to manage educational budgets, ensure proper security, and better interact with parents, the public, and district administrators.

The Master's in Educational Leadership degree program (alternatively "Master's in Educational Administration") is aligned with National Educational Leadership Preparation (NELP) standards and Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (PSEL). Although it adheres to national educational standards, due to state-specific programming and licensure requirements,  this program is not accepted in Alabama, Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, and Minnesota.

60% of graduates finish within 

WGU lets you move more quickly through material you already know and advance as soon as you're ready. The result: You may finish faster.

*WGU Internal Data

Tuition per six-month term is

Tuition charged per term—rather than per credit—helps you control the ultimate cost of earning your degree online. Finish faster, pay less! 

Average salary increase

 Graduates of this program report an average salary increase of $12,314 after completing their WGU degree.

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COURSES & COMPETENCIES

Educational leadership courses, curriculum that ensures you’ve mastered the skills you’ll need as a leader among students and staff..

Program consists of 13 courses

At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to help you show that you know your stuff.

This online Master of Education program provides the essential skills, knowledge, and field experience you need to successfully manage a modern educational institution, be it public or private. It will prepare you to be certified as a principal or educational administrator.

The WGU M.S. Educational Leadership program was designed (and is regularly updated) with input from the experts on our Education Program Council . These respected authorities know exactly what it takes for a graduate to lead a staff of educators, administrators, and support personnel in a modern educational setting.

This program comprises the following courses. You will typically complete them one at a time as you make your way through your program, working with your Program Mentor each term to build your personalized Degree Plan. You’ll work through each course as quickly as you can study and learn the material. As soon as you’re ready, you’ll pass the assessment, complete the course, and move on. This means that you can finish as many courses as you're able in a term at no additional cost.

Leadership of Curriculum Design and Instruction prepares candidates to evaluate and implement curricular programs and instructional methods observed at the school level. Candidates focus on the knowledge and skills needed to develop, align, and implement cohesive systems of curriculum, instruction, and assessment. Importance is placed on responding to student needs, embodying high expectations for student learning, aligning with academic and non-academic standards within and across grade levels, and promoting students' academic and non-academic success and social and emotional well-being. This course also explores the use of data from formative and summative assessments to make recommendations to improve instruction and promote student learning and well-being. Candidates are prepared to build a professional culture of trust and collaboration to ensure they are able to work with school personnel in creating curricular programs and instructional methods that are engaging, challenging, and relevant to student needs, experiences, and interests. This course is designed to be taken after successful completion of D632: Cultural Competency and Social-Emotional Learning.

Leadership Foundations and Ethics presents candidates with a variety of leadership theories and strategies used by PK–12 educational leaders to develop, sustain, and evaluate a coherent system of academic and social supports that meet the full range of students' needs. Foundational knowledge addresses the importance of developing mission, vision, and core values in collaboration with faculty, staff, and the school community to advocate for student success. The course also covers communication strategies, interpersonal skills, and using data to build community, influence school culture, and manage change for continuous improvement. In addition, candidates are introduced to the significance of following professional ethical codes and the importance of modeling and advocating ethical behavior with all stakeholders.

School Law prepares candidates to understand the appropriate application of laws, rights, policies, and regulations to promote student success. The course emphasizes the importance of understanding the history of and relationship between federal and state laws, legal decisions, local education policies, and practices at the local school level to ensure compliance. The course further focuses on understanding the legal rights and protections provided for all students, including those with disabilities, as well as school staff. It also addresses curriculum and instruction that help stakeholders understand the possible effects these rights may have on administrative decisions. Candidates are also provided the opportunity to demonstrate their capability to evaluate legal consequences of administrative decisions.

People and Talent in Educational Leadership prepares candidates to understand and implement practices used to recruit, hire, and prepare school personnel to provide students with an optimal learning environment. Various school professional development practices, such as professional learning communities, collaborative learning communities, beginning teacher induction, and mentor programs, will be covered. Additionally the course covers methods to evaluate school personnel appropriately based on data-driven decisions; providing realistic and actionable feedback to school personnel to continuously drive improvement; engaging all school personnel in the use and evaluation of competing school-wide initiatives; creating and sustaining a professional culture of engagement and commitment by developing workplace conditions that promote employee development, well-being, and professional growth; and continuously supporting school personnel to improve their instructional practices through ongoing professional development. The candidate will also reflect on leadership standards in order to develop a personal professional growth plan. A prerequisite for this course is D017: School Law.

School Financial Leadership focuses on financial policies, practices, and issues connected to PK–12 school operations. The course describes various sources of school funding, the impact these sources can have on managing school budgets, and the challenges connected to finances that are often encountered by school leaders to ensure equitable financial support for all students. Candidates learn how to analyze different types of school budgets and understand the principal's role in the budgetary process to ensure alignment to the school's mission, vision, and values. This course also identifies and explains various types of commonly used accounting regulations, rules, and professional ethical principles used to create, maintain, and evaluate school budgets to ensure the equitable and ethical use of financial resources. This course is designed to be taken after successful completion of D017: School Law.

Practicum in Educational Leadership - Focus on Professional Practices provides candidates with an authentic, real-world work experience as an educational leader in a K–12 school environment. This is the first of a two-part experience designed to take place under the leadership and supervision of a practicing school principal or assistant principal at an approved practicum school site (K–12). This course includes an emphasis on the application of knowledge and skills to areas directly or indirectly affecting students. Collaboration within the school and local community is a focal point for this course. The course also includes the completion of assigned administrative duties in a K–12 setting, as defined by the candidate's state of residence, under the supervision of the cooperating administrator of the candidate's approved practicum site. Prior to enrolling in this practicum course, the candidate must complete a minimum of 18 CUs.

Systems management and school operations instruct candidates on the operational aspects of school leadership that are essential to developing, monitoring, and evaluating school management, school systems, and services that address and support the needs of students and school personnel. Topics presented in this course include systems thinking; development, implementation, and evaluation of data-based strategic planning; and school improvement processes. Candidates will evaluate the use of appropriate operational technology and the development of communications systems that provide actionable information to internal and external stakeholders for use in classroom and school improvement and community engagement. Each of these topics emphasizes the importance of efficiently and effectively managing school resources to build, maintain, and evaluate a cohesive system of academic and organizational supports, services, extracurricular activities, and accommodations to meet the full range of needs for each student. Prerequisites for this course: Leadership Foundations and Ethics and School Law.

Practicum in Educational Leadership - Focus on Instruction and Operations provides candidates with an authentic, real-world work experience as an educational leader in a K–12 school environment. This is the second of a two-part experience designed to take place under the leadership and supervision of a practicing school principal or assistant principal at an approved practicum school site (K–12). This course includes an emphasis on the application of knowledge and skills to areas affecting school operations and school personnel. The course also includes the completion of assigned administrative duties in a K–12 setting, as defined by the candidate's state of residence, under the supervision of the cooperating administrator of the candidate's approved practicum site. Prior to enrolling in this practicum course, the candidate must complete a minimum of 18 CUs.

Educational Leadership Capstone serves as the culminating experience of this degree program, uniting content area knowledge with the execution of a problem-based learning project. Under the guidance of program faculty, candidates will apply their data literacy and research skills authentically and to topics appropriate to the candidate's degree program and future career goals. Projects will include action research or program evaluation and the qualitative or quantitative research methods necessitated by the project's purpose. Prerequisites include Data Literacy and Educational Inquiry, as well as all content area courses and field experiences prescribed in one's area of study. This course is designed to be taken after successful completion of all courses with the exception of Educational Inquiry, which may be taken concurrently.

Leading Inclusive Schools covers a variety of topics that directly affect students who have been assessed and determined to need additional support or services to ensure their academic success and well-being. The course prepares candidates to understand and comply with applicable laws, rights, policies, and regulations as appropriate to address matters of equity, fairness, and student marginalization based on culture and language, disability, or giftedness. These include types of special education classifications and their significance, working with English learners (ELs), working with gifted and talented students, and using Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) frameworks to ensure optimum learning environments for diverse learners. This course will guide candidates in building a strong repertoire of skills and knowledge related to exceptional students. It will help them ensure that each student has equitable access to effective teachers; learning opportunities; academic, social, and behavioral support; and other resources necessary for success. This course is designed to be taken after successful completion of the School Law course.

Cultural Competency and Social-Emotional Learning focuses on empowering educational leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to foster cultural competency, deepen their understanding of diverse learner populations, and apply culturally responsive pedagogy. This course places a strong emphasis on promoting social justice, equity, and inclusivity within educational contexts. Students in this course will engage in immersive learning experiences aimed at equipping them with the capacity to lead social-emotional learning initiatives that cater to the social and emotional needs of all learners. The course also empowers students with advocacy strategies to influence positive change in local and global educational environments, ensuring that educational leaders are well prepared to navigate the challenges and opportunities of today's diverse educational landscape. This course is designed to be taken after successful completion of D019: Data Literacy and Evidence-Based Practices.

Data Literacy and Evidence-Based Practices focuses on the development of data literacy skills educators need to improve the learning and development opportunities of K–12 students. Candidates will practice identifying educational problems and data types, generating data, analyzing data, making inferences and drawing conclusions, and creating action plans within their educational settings. Candidates will also learn best practices for data literacy, including continuous improvement planning, approaches to professional learning communities, and instructional decision-making processes. This course has no prerequisites.

Educational Inquiry focuses on practical problem solving. This course teaches candidates to use scholarly literature to inform their own practice. It also teaches candidates to engage in their own action research processes, which empowers educators to recognize opportunities for improvement and to systematically implement and evaluate changes. This course prepares candidates to conduct research for the capstone. Prerequisites for this course: Data Literacy and Evidence-Based Practices.

Capstone Project

Special requirements for this program

WGU's online master's degree program in educational leadership requires the successful completion of a capstone project. You'll take what you've learned during your studies and apply it to a real-world situation, proposing a solution to an actual issue you're likely to face in a professional academic environment. 

Skills For Your Résumé

As part of this program, you will develop a range of valuable skills that employers are looking for. 

• Presentations: Created tailored presentations that effectively address the unique needs and interests of specific audiences.
• Budgeting: Skillfully evaluated funding requests for various activities, ensuring they align with pre-authorized budget expenditures, promoting financial responsibility.
• Leadership: Established open lines of communication between leaders and team members, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
• Educational Leadership: Collaborated with stakeholders to identify and establish educational goals for school improvement plans.
• Ethical Standards And Conduct: Demonstrated the consistent use of responsible practices and principles, reflecting a commitment to ethical and professional conduct.
• Operations: Successfully identified key personnel and processes within organizations, leading to streamlined operations and efficient decision-making processes.

“After years of putting off getting my master's degree, I finally decided that it was time. While working a full-time teaching job and having a husband and two toddlers at home, WGU's program allowed me the flexibility of working at my own pace. I was able to earn my Educational Leadership degree in an accelerated time frame with the support of my course instructors and mentor. WGU allowed me to achieve my goals, and I love them so much that I registered for a second master's!”

—Sylvia M.S. Educational Leadership

WGU vs. Traditional Universities Compare the Difference

Traditional Universities

TUITION STRUCTURE

Per credit hour

Flat rate per 6-month term

Schedule and wait days or even weeks to meet with one of many counselors

Simply email or call to connect with your designated Program Mentor who supports you from day one

Scheduled time

Whenever you feel ready

Professor led lectures at a certain time and place

Courses available anytime, from anywhere

TIME TO FINISH

Approximately 2 years, minimal acceleration options

As quickly as you can master the material, can finish programs in under 2 years

You Aren't On Your Own

WGU has Program Mentors who work with you from the day you start, all the way through graduation. They help you chart your courses, answer your questions, and ensure you can go through your program. You're not alone when you choose an online degree at WGU.

Flexibility You Need

Students choose WGU for their online degree program because of its flexibility. Whether you already have a full-time job, have responsibilities as a parent, or just have a busy schedule, WGU can work for you.

Strong Alumni Network

When you enroll in an online master's degree program at WGU, you join an impressive network of teachers. Over 13,000 students graduated from the Teachers College in 2021 alone, taking their skills and impacting the educational system all around the United States.

Accredited, Respected, Recognized™

One important measure of a degree’s value is the reputation of the university where it was earned. When employers, industry leaders, and academic experts hold your alma mater in high esteem, you reap the benefits of that respect. WGU is a pioneer in reinventing higher education for the 21st century, and our quality has been recognized.

COST & TIME

When We Say Affordable We Mean It

By charging per six-month term rather than per credit—and empowering students to accelerate through material they know well or learn quickly—WGU helps students control the ultimate cost of their degrees. The faster you complete your program, the less you pay for your degree.

A Master's Degree Is Within Reach

There is help available to make paying for school possible for you:

The average student loan debt of WGU graduates in 2022 (among those who borrowed) was less than half* the national average.

Most WGU students qualify for financial aid, and WGU is approved for federal financial aid and U.S. veterans benefits. 

Many scholarship opportunities are available. Find out what you might be eligible for.  

* WGU undergraduate students have approximately half the debt at graduation compared to the national average, according to the Institute for College Access and Success (2022).

FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE

A Different Way to Learn: Degree Programs Designed to Fit Your Life—and All the Demands on Your Time

Professional responsibilities. Family obligations. Personal commitments. At WGU, we understand schedules are tight and often unpredictable for adult students. That’s why we offer a flexible, personalized approach to how education should be. No rigid class schedules. Just a solid, career-focused principal preparation program that meshes with your current lifestyle. You'll be challenged. You'll work hard. But if you commit yourself and put in the hours needed, WGU makes it possible for you to earn a highly respected degree as a busy working adult.

"My experience at WGU was excellent. My mentors and professors where there when I needed them. There ability to keep me on track and to answer questions in a timely matter allowed me to get my master's faster than I thought possible.”

—Jerry Nielson M.S. Educational Leadership

CAREER OUTLOOK

Pave the Way to the Next Step in Your Career as an Educational Administrator

If you're a licensed classroom teacher with at least three years of experience under your belt, and you have a passion for positive influence in an academic setting, you are ready to advance in your career by becoming an instruction-based principal, vice principal, assistant principal or school administrator. As an educational leader, you'll have an opportunity to shape the school that you run by creating an inspiring and safe environment for educators and the students they teach.

With the deep, comprehensive education you'll receive at WGU, you will be ready to be certified and become a school principal. This position allows you to impact the overall learning environment of an institution and lead students toward a better academic future. Consider this program an investment in yourself, in your professional growth, and in the future of your students.

Return on Your Investment

On average, wgu graduates see an increase in income post-graduation.

Average income increase from all degrees in annual salary vs. pre-enrollment salary. Source:  2023 Harris Poll Survey  of 1,655 WGU graduates.

Survey was sent to a representative sample of WGU graduates from all colleges. Respondents received at least one WGU degree since 2017.

Employment of elementary, middle, and high school principals is projected to grow 5% from 2021 to 2031.

—U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

WGU Has Alumni Teaching Across the Country

Graduates of WGU's online Teachers College have found meaningful, rewarding teaching careers in classrooms at:

• Inclusionary K–12 classrooms
• Middle/junior high schools
• High schools
• Private and charter schools

Impressive Class of Graduates

Graduates of the WGU Teachers College include recipients of many professional honors, including:

• Gates Millennium Scholars
• Intel Grant for Mathematics and Technology
• Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction Award
• Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award
• Association of Public Charter Schools Educator of the Year Award

Master of Education Admission Requirements

Prior to entry into the M.S. Educational Leadership degree program, you will be required to complete a candidate interview and provide the following:

• Evidence of an undergraduate bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• Proof of a state issued, valid, and unexpired standard professional license
• A resume showing three years of licensed professional experience in a P-12 setting (excluding probationary, temporary, and substitute teaching experience)
• A confidential recommendation
• Recent annual summative performance evaluation

Additionally, you will complete and submit a Practicum Site Agreement . Use the version for your state of residence.

• For students in Washington.
• For students in Missouri.
• For students in North Carolina.
• For students in Kentucky.
• For students from all other states.

Get Your Enrollment Checklist

Download your step-by-step guide to enrollment.

Get Your Questions Answered

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More About the M.S. in Educational Leadership

• More About This Degree

What is a master's in educational leadership?

A master's degree in educational leadership is a graduate program that prepares you for certification as a school principal or administrator. It gives you important skills and credentials to understand how to run the school in an efficient way. 

How long does it take to earn a master's in educational leadership?

Typical master's of educational leadership programs take 2 years to complete, but at some schools you may be able to accelerate and finish faster. For example, most WGU educational leadership students finish in just 18 months or less.

What can you do with an educational leadership degree?

An educational leadership degree can prepare you to become a vice principal, assistant principal, principal, or other administrator in education.

What can I expect from an online master's in educational leadership program?

What are the types of educational leadership.

Most educational leaders fall into a few categories of leadership including: servant leaders, transactional leaders, emotional leaders, and transformational leaders.

What are the functions of educational leadership?

Educational leadership is implemented to ensure that the entire school and system runs smoothly. Educational leaders are in place to create effective and robust places of teaching and learning where students feel safe and welcome. They ensure that the business end of a school runs well, while also ensuring that students and teachers feel confident as individuals.

What is educational leadership theory?

Educational leadership theory evaluates the different approaches to running schools and classrooms in ways that are effective for students and teachers alike.

What is meant by educational leadership?

Educational leadership is a joint effort utilizing the talents and expertise of educators, students, policy makers and the public at large to enhance public K-12 educational quality and systems. These enhancements are typically executed through improvements to training regiments, pedagogy, epistemology, and developmental psychology. A degree in educational leadership will focus on helping current teachers advance their knowledge and skills, giving them greater opportunities to influence policy and move into education careers that impact the future of learning.

What are the key qualities of educational leadership?

There are many qualities that an educational leader should exhibit. Qualities such as positivity, honesty, deep reflection, authenticity, integrity, passion, inclusivity, and a strong focus on community building and collaboration on educational issues are key to being a transformational educational leader. In an educational leadership degree program, you will focus on developing and honing these skills.

Should I get an online masters degree, or a graduate certificate?

Understanding your post bachelor educational possibilities is crucial if you have a specific goal in mind. For some, a post-graduate certificate can fulfill the requirements that are needed to teach a specific course or courses, by fulfilling a state or national licensing requirement, but a certificate is what is considered a non-degree award. As a result, if you have career goals that include additional advancements for your career beyond the classroom, you may need to consider if a certificate will provide you the ability to pursue those goals. 

A master’s degree in education can open the doors to school leadership roles as a principal or assistant principal, and in some states is even sufficient to be considered for roles as part of the superintendency. This is not typically true of a graduate certificate. Check your state guidelines to see your specific state’s educational requirements for leadership roles. 

Does WGU offer financial aid?

WGU is approved to offer  federal student aid . You will need to apply using the FAFSA, which is used to determine your eligibility for aid. WGU’s FAFSA school code is 033394.

Are there scholarships available?

Scholarships are available for new WGU students and returning graduates.  This video shows more  about scholarship opportunities and how they can help you pay for school. Get information on:

• How to apply
• Eligibility requirements
• Examples of scholarships
• What happens after you apply
• Other financial aid options

How does tuition work at WGU?

WGU's tuition is a flat rate that is charged every six months. You can take as many courses as you are able in that six-month term—with no extra cost. You simply pay for the term and do as much work as you can or want to during that time. This means that finishing faster helps you save money—a major benefit you won't find at most other schools. 

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American Public University, a Trailblazer in Online Education, Now Transforming into a Global Digital University; Unveils a New Visual Identity as First Step of Its Next Chapter

Charles Town, WV—April 9, 2024  – With over two decades of success in providing top-quality, career-relevant, online higher education, American Public University (APU) is expanding its reach to become a global digital university that integrates emerging technologies and enhanced teaching and learning opportunities for faculty and students. Today, APU enters a new chapter which includes a new visual identity, a new tagline: Digital Learning for Real Life TM , an expanded global focus, and a suite of digital student services.

"As a pioneer of online education with over 137,000 alumni from more than 100 countries, we are embarking on a new journey as we continue to set the bar higher globally,” said Nuno Fernandes, President, American Public University System (APUS). “The way students want to learn continues to evolve. We want to prepare our students with career-relevant skills in a truly 21st century manner."

Since its inception, APU has grown to offer leading-edge, top-quality education at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree levels for learners of all backgrounds, thanks to its flexible online delivery model and relentless dedication to academic excellence and affordability.

With this next chapter, APU aims to provide students with highly collaborative learning experiences, AI-powered classroom support, and a host of personalized digital services that will help to prepare them for the challenges of tomorrow.

"We are looking to provide a more engaging learning experience that leverages emerging technologies to foster connections and a deeper sense of community and continues to be asynchronous in nature, but human by design,” Mr. Fernandes added. 

Already, APU students can access – at no added cost – personalized career coaches, and 24/7 mental health support, both in multiple languages; AI-based career services; and numerous online practical work experience opportunities. For example, APU plans to make Microsoft Copilot available to students starting in summer 2024, and faculty are scheduled to gain access in late spring.

"When students attend college, they expect the same level of digital experiences that they receive in other parts of their lives,” said Dr. Elizabeth Johnson, Provost of APUS. “It’s time to rethink online education. Equipping our students to compete in a fast-changing world requires fostering a greater understanding of artificial intelligence, cultivating their ability to build meaningful human connections, and instilling in them a sense of greater resilience."

APUS is comprised of two brands, American Public University (APU) and American Military University (AMU), which combined have more than 90,000 active students, including numerous working adults, active-duty U.S. military, veterans, and their families. The above-mentioned services will be available to all APUS students.

APUS offers over 200 programs with nearly 1,640 full and part-time faculty. Average class sizes are 19 students at the undergraduate level and 11 students at the graduate level. As of September 2023, almost 40 percent of APUS students self-identify as being from diverse backgrounds, such as Asian, African American, American Indian, Hispanic, and Latino.

For more info on career services, visit: https://www.apu.apus.edu/career-services/ .

For more info on mental health services, visit: https://www.apu.apus.edu/help/university-information/cognitive-mental-health-resources/ .

American Public University American Public University (APU) offers digital learning for real life. Through top-quality, career- relevant, affordable higher education programs and services, APU helps improve the lives of our students and their communities. APU and American Military University (AMU) are part of the accredited American Public University System (APUS), which has prepared over 137,000 alumni for success.

APUS, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, is in the top 11% for students’ return on educational investment, compared to 4,500 colleges and universities nationwide, according to the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce (2022) 1 . APUS is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Public Education, Inc. (Nasdaq: APEI).

1 American Public University System ranked in the Top 11% for return on educational investment, compared to 4,500 colleges and universities in the United States, according to the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce report.

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Is a Master’s Degree Worth It?

Understanding the Numbers When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors — like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.

Earning a master’s degree could help you stand out while pursuing an in-demand career or give you the knowledge you need to land a leadership role. But in today’s evolving world of higher education and workplace requirements, is a master’s degree actually worth it?

The value of a master’s degree depends on your career goals, the industry you hope to work in and the type of job you want to have. But there are plenty of benefits to earning a graduate-level credential.

“One thing a master’s degree shows employers over a bachelor’s degree is commitment level,” said Alicia Gagne, '20 MBA , a career advisor at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). “Not only did this person make the effort to get into their field, but they went a step beyond to master the material and improve themselves for their career.”

So, is a master’s degree worth pursuing? To make this decision, you’ll need to consider what this credential could do for your personal career aspirations .

What is a Master's Degree?

A master’s degree is a type of graduate-level degree  that can help you build advanced knowledge in a field or career path.

Master’s degrees are typically two-year academic programs that follow a bachelor’s degree and dive deeper into specific subject matter. Master’s degrees may also require you to conduct scholarly research  and complete a thesis or capstone project  to demonstrate your learning.

In today’s competitive job market, master’s degrees are quickly becoming an in-demand credential that can set you apart from other job seekers, especially in certain industries, said Gagne.

“Many employers require higher education for upward mobility,” she said.* “You can leverage it for higher pay, mobility within a company or competitive offers … It used to be that a bachelor's degree  would set you apart from the pack, but now a bachelor’s is often expected, and the master’s is that extra shiny step.”

Explore more about what a master's degree is  and the types available to choose from.

Find Your Program

How long does it take to earn a master’s degree.

A master’s degree is typically a two-year program , but the total time it takes to earn a degree can vary depending on the number of credits in your selected program and the number of classes you take each term.

While many traditional campus-based master's degrees have a semester-based schedule, some online schools are term-based, which could help you earn your degree more quickly.

At SNHU, for example, graduate terms are 10 weeks long, with five terms per year . You can take one or two courses per term, allowing you to complete up to 10 graduate-level courses in just one year.

How Much Does a Master’s Degree Cost?

The cost of a master’s degree can also vary. Earning a master’s degree online can be more affordable than pursuing a degree on a university campus, but the total cost will depend on the school and program you choose.

At SNHU's rate in April 2024, online master’s degree courses cost $637 per credit hour, and any required books or other materials are an additional expense. A typical 36-credit master’s degree costs about $22,932 in tuition; however, some degree programs may require additional credits. 

There are some ways you could save money as you work toward your degree. Consider:

• Scholarships and grants you may be eligible to apply for
• Transfer credits from graduate courses you've previously completed
• Tuition reimbursement programs at your work
• Relevant work experience  and certifications you might already have

Hayden Mailloux , a graduate-level admission counselor at SNHU, said it’s important to consider the cost of a master’s degree and your expected return on investment when deciding whether to pursue an advanced credential.

“Compare the expense of graduate school to your future earning potential, and then determine how much you can afford to spend on your master’s degree,” Mailloux said.*

Is It Worth Paying for a Master's Degree?

Knowing the time and money it takes to earn a master’s degree, it’s normal to wonder if a master’s degree is still worth it. However, data shows that the return on investment of a master’s degree can be significant.

In-Demand Credential

Master’s degree holders continue to be in demand across many industries, said Gagne.*

“Many employers recognize master’s degrees as a significant benefit for their company,” she said. 

According to Gagne, earning a master's degree can equip individuals with:

• A high depth of knowledge
• A mindset that is well-prepared for the complexities and challenges of today's working world
• Sophisticated research and critical analytical abilities
• Strong devotion to their subject area

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of jobs requiring a master’s degree is also on the rise.* Jobs requiring a master’s degree are projected to grow 11.3% between 2022 and 2032, according to BLS data, while jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree are expected to grow 6.7% over the same period.*

Higher Earning Potential

According to BLS data, master’s degree holders also have a higher earning potential than workers with a bachelor’s degree.*

The BLS reports that in 2022, workers with a master’s degree brought home median weekly earnings of $1,661 , compared to $1,432 for bachelor’s degree holders.* This results in a median annual pay gap of about $12,000 between master’s degree holders and bachelor’s degree holders, per BLS data.*

Lower Unemployment Rates

Earning a master’s degree can also give you more job security.* According to BLS data, the unemployment rate for master’s degree holders in 2022 was just 1.9% , lower than the average for bachelor’s degree holders (2.2%).*

Personal and Professional Growth

Kathy Mota '23G and Marco Mota '23G both earned online master’s degrees from SNHU while working full-time jobs and parenting their three daughters. The married couple said that while their graduate degrees in psychology and business administration will help them advance in their careers, one of the biggest benefits was showing their children the power of hard work and determination.

“It gives them a sense that they are able to do whatever they want at any time of their lives,” said Marco. “Just try and do your best, and as long as you do that, that’s all that matters.”

What Master’s Degrees are Most Worth It?

Whether a master’s degree is worth the investment can depend on the type of job you want and the industry you’re working in.

According to Gagne, master’s degrees are often more critical in industries such as healthcare and teaching. Many businesses also prefer candidates with a master’s degree for leadership roles and executive-level positions, she said.

But Gagne said that while master’s degrees are in-demand in some fields, having this credential on your resume  doesn’t automatically make the degree worth the time and cost.

“The degree that is most worth it is the one that you are passionate about, because you will put in the extra work and effort to make it into something lucrative no matter the field,” she said. “Choose the degree most worth it to you, and make yourself most worth it to the employers.”

Is a Master’s Degree Right for Me?

A master’s degree can give you a leg up when applying to high-level jobs or seeking a promotion. But it’s important to explore how a graduate program can help you reach your personal career goals.

There are several factors to consider when determining whether to pursue an advanced degree. According to Mailloux, these include:

• Costs of a master’s degree program
• Time commitment
• Industry requirements for the career you want
• Your passion for the field

Gagne said she encourages students to speak to someone  already working in the job they want to see what kind of training is recommended.

While a master’s degree can be critical to advancement in a field, some careers offer in-house training or certifications and may not require a graduate degree at all.

“Individuals should ask themselves if the degree will get them to that next step, if they have the time to commit to it and if they will see the pay-off of their efforts,” Gagne said.

If you do decide to pursue a master’s program , the technical knowledge and soft skills  you gain can have a lifelong impact on your career, said Gagne. Gagne has seen this effect in her own professional life after earning an MBA from SNHU.

“Graduate school taught me to think on a bigger scale,” she said. “Even if you end up in a different field from the degree you pursued, any area of education has transferable skills and can open doors for you.”

A degree can change your life. Find the SNHU master's degree  that can best help you meet your goals.

*Cited job growth projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth. Actual salaries and/or earning potential may be the result of a combination of factors including, but not limited to: years of experience, industry of employment, geographic location, and worker skill.

Danielle Gagnon is a freelance writer focused on higher education. She started her career working as an education reporter for a daily newspaper in New Hampshire, where she reported on local schools and education policy. Gagnon served as the communications manager for a private school in Boston, MA before later starting her freelance writing career. Today, she continues to share her passion for education as a writer for Southern New Hampshire University. Connect with her on LinkedIn .

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What is a Capstone Project in College?

About southern new hampshire university.

SNHU is a nonprofit, accredited university with a mission to make high-quality education more accessible and affordable for everyone.

Founded in 1932, and online since 1995, we’ve helped countless students reach their goals with flexible, career-focused programs . Our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH is home to over 3,000 students, and we serve over 135,000 students online. Visit our about SNHU  page to learn more about our mission, accreditations, leadership team, national recognitions and awards.

Machine Learning & Data Science Foundations

Online Graduate Certificate

Be a Game Changer

Harness the power of big data with skills in machine learning and data science, your pathway to the ai workforce.

Organizations know how important data is, but they don’t always know what to do with the volume of data they have collected. That’s why Carnegie Mellon University designed the online Graduate Certificate in Machine Learning & Data Science Foundations; to teach technically-savvy professionals how to leverage AI and machine learning technology for harnessing the power of large scale data systems.   

Computer-Science Based Data Analytics

When you enroll in this program, you will learn foundational skills in computer programming, machine learning, and data science that will allow you to leverage data science in various industries including business, education, environment, defense, policy and health care. This unique combination of expertise will give you the ability to turn raw data into usable information that you can apply within your organization.  

Throughout the coursework, you will:

• Practice mathematical and computational concepts used in machine learning, including probability, linear algebra, multivariate differential calculus, algorithm analysis, and dynamic programming.
• Learn how to approach and solve large-scale data science problems.
• Acquire foundational skills in solution design, analytic algorithms, interactive analysis, and visualization techniques for data analysis.

An online Graduate Certificate in Machine Learning & Data Science from Carnegie Mellon will expand your possibilities and prepare you for the staggering amount of data generated by today’s rapidly changing world. 

A Powerful Certificate. Conveniently Offered. 

The online Graduate Certificate in Machine Learning & Data Science Foundations is offered 100% online to help computer science professionals conveniently fit the program into their busy day-to-day lives. In addition to a flexible, convenient format, you will experience the same rigorous coursework for which Carnegie Mellon University’s graduate programs are known. 

For Today’s Problem Solvers

This leading certificate program is best suited for:

• Industry Professionals looking to deliver value to companies by acquiring in-demand data science, AI, and machine learning skills. After completing the program, participants will acquire the technical know-how to build machine learning models as well as the ability to analyze trends.
• Recent computer science degree graduates seeking to expand their skill set and become even more marketable in a growing field. Over the past few years, data sets have grown tremendously. Today’s top companies need data science professionals who can leverage machine learning technology.   

Program Name Change

To better reflect the emphasis on machine learning in the curriculum, the name of this certificate has been updated from Computational Data Science Foundations to Machine Learning & Data Science Foundations.

Although the name has changed, the course content, faculty, online experience, admissions requirements, and everything else has remained the same. Questions about the name change? Please contact us.

At a Glance

Start Date May 2024

Application Deadlines Rolling Admissions

We are still accepting applications for a limited number of remaining spots to start in Summer 2024. Apply today to secure your space in the program.

Program Length 12 months

Program Format 100% online

Live-Online Schedule 1x per week for 90 minutes in the evening

Taught By School of Computer Science

Request Info

Questions? There are two ways to contact us. Call 412-501-2686 or send an email to  [email protected]  with your inquiries .

Looking for information about CMU's on-campus Master of Computational Data Science degree? Visit the program's website to learn more.  Admissions consultations with our team will only cover the online certificate program.

A National Leader in Computer Science

Carnegie Mellon University is world renowned for its technology and computer science programs. Our courses are taught by leading researchers in the fields of Machine Learning, Language Technologies, and Human-Computer Interaction. 

Number One  in the nation for our artificial intelligence programs.

Number One  in the nation  for our programming language courses.

Number Four  in the nation for the caliber of our computer science programs.

Erie 109 University Square Erie, PA 16541

Ruskin 105 Commercial Center Drive Ruskin, FL 33573

Phone Number 1-800-GANNON-U

• Online Education
• About Gannon

Campus Locations

Gannon's online degree programs are designed for busy professionals balancing a career and home life. With flexible class schedules, Gannon's distance learning programs allow students to continue their education without putting their lives on hold. Class work can be completed at any time before the due date, and after the initial orientation session, students never have to attend online classes at scheduled times.

Gannon's academic programs give students a competitive edge over other candidates and provide the relevant skills necessary to succeed in top career fields. Our degree programs are accredited by The Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and we have earned a top ranking in "America's Best Colleges" by U.S. News and World Report. 

By bringing our programs online, we at Gannon University are fulfilling and expanding our mission to offer students an outstanding, value-centered education that prepares students for professional and personal leadership.

• Erie, Pennsylvania
• Ruskin, Florida
• Engagement and Success
• Corporate Discount
• Proctored Exams
• International Compliance
• State Authorization

Distance Education

A.J. Palumbo Academic Center 3010A Phone: (814) 871-7134 Email: [email protected]

100 Best universities for Mechanical Engineering in Russia

Updated: February 29, 2024

• Art & Design
• Computer Science
• Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
• Mathematics

Below is a list of best universities in Russia ranked based on their research performance in Mechanical Engineering. A graph of 714K citations received by 136K academic papers made by 158 universities in Russia was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. Moscow State University

For Mechanical Engineering

2. Tomsk State University

3. St. Petersburg State University

4. Bauman Moscow State Technical University

5. Ufa State Aviation Technical University

6. Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University

7. Tomsk Polytechnic University

8. Ural Federal University

9. South Ural State University

10. National Research University Higher School of Economics

11. Moscow Aviation Institute

12. Novosibirsk State University

13. ITMO University

14. N.R.U. Moscow Power Engineering Institute

15. National Research Nuclear University MEPI

16. Kazan Federal University

17. National University of Science and Technology "MISIS"

18. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology

19. Samara National Research University

20. Moscow State Technological University "Stankin"

21. Novosibirsk State Technical University

22. RUDN University

23. Southern Federal University

24. Saratov State University

25. Ufa State Petroleum Technological University

26. Samara State Technical University

27. Siberian Federal University

28. Kazan National Research Technical University named after A.N. Tupolev - KAI

29. Perm State Technical University

30. Omsk State Technical University

31. Saint Petersburg State Electrotechnical University

32. Moscow Polytech

33. Saint-Petersburg Mining University

34. Magnitogorsk State Technical University

35. Saratov State Technical University

36. Moscow State University of Railway Engineering

37. Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod

38. Nizhny Novgorod State Technical University

39. Tula State University

40. Belgorod State Technological University

41. Far Eastern Federal University

42. Novgorod State University

43. belgorod state university.

44. Finance Academy under the Government of the Russian Federation

45. Moscow Medical Academy

46. Kazan State Technological University

47. Russian State University of Oil and Gas

48. siberian state aerospace university.

49. Tambov State Technical University

50. Voronezh State University

51. Siberian State Industrial University

52. Saint Petersburg State Institute of Technology

53. Kalashnikov Izhevsk State Technical University

54. St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering

55. Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia

56. Murmansk State Technical University

57. South-Western State University

58. Ogarev Mordovia State University

59. Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics

60. south-russian state university of economics and service.

61. Perm State University

62. Kuzbass State Technical University

63. Russian National Research Medical University

64. Plekhanov Russian University of Economics

65. Ulyanovsk State Technical University

66. Ulyanovsk State University

67. Penza State University

68. Kuban State University of Technology

69. Polzunov Altai State Technical University

70. Chelyabinsk State University

71. Yaroslavl State University

72. University of Tyumen

73. National Research University of Electronic Technology

74. Leningrad State University

75. Moscow State Pedagogical University

76. Udmurt State University

77. Irkutsk State University

78. North-Eastern Federal University

79. Bashkir State University

80. Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration

81. Kuban State University

82. Kuban State Agricultural University

83. St. Petersburg State University of Aerospace Instrumentation

84. Kemerovo State University

85. Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University

86. Orenburg State University

87. Baltic State Technical University "Voenmeh"

88. Tomsk State University of Architecture and Building

89. Chuvash State University

90. ivanovo state power university.

91. Irkutsk National Research Technical University

92. Orel State University

93. State University of Management

94. Tomsk State Pedagogical University

95. Volgograd State University

96. Petrozavodsk State University

97. Tver State University

98. Northern Arctic Federal University

99. Omsk State Transport University

100. Kaliningrad State Technical University

The best cities to study Mechanical Engineering in Russia based on the number of universities and their ranks are Moscow , Tomsk , Saint Petersburg , and Ufa .

Engineering subfields in Russia

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• CENTERS & INSTITUTES

UNC School of Social Work ranked No. 4 best graduate school for social work in the nation 

Posted on April 9, 2024

Tied for No. 2 public, No. 4 overall, UNC School of Social Work is recognized alongside a score of Carolina programs ranked Top 10 in the nation in their respective categories by the magazine.  

Months after being ranked fourth in national research and development (R&D) expenditures among R1 higher education institutions, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Social Work earned another No. 4 ranking today.  

The School of Social Work moved up three spots in the latest U.S. News & World Report “Best Graduate Schools” rankings , rising to a tie for fourth in the nation among the 319 surveyed social work schools accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the Council on Social Work Education.  

The School ranked No. 1 among schools of social work across the Southeast and tied for second nationally among public universities. 

Dean Ramona Denby-Brinson said being ranked second among all public university social work programs was especially meaningful due to the school’s responsibility to serve local, national and global communities. 

“Our new national ranking is exciting news,” Denby-Brinson said. “Among many measures of success, the ranking recognizes the tremendous contributions of our faculty and staff. Our MSW (Master of Social Work) program is preparing practitioners, researchers and advocates who improve life for thousands of people each day. We are honored to be recognized by our peers for the excellence displayed by our faculty in all they do.” 

Executive Vice Provost Amy Locklear Hertel, a clinical assistant professor at the School, said “The UNC School of Social Work is a true asset on campus, to our state, and the globe. By drawing our attention to pressing issues of our most vulnerable populations, to developing strong communities and systems, to informing policy as well as practice, the UNC School of Social Work is preparing social service practitioners and researchers to fully ‘advance equity, transform systems, and improves lives’ — just as the School’s mission states.” 

She went on to say, “It is an honor to be a clinical faculty member in the School.” 

Since arriving at the School as dean in August 2021, Denby-Brinson worked closely with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners to establish a strategic plan that helped to elevate the graduate programs, modernize the curriculum, and increase student enrollment by providing access and flexible degree offerings while using advanced learning modalities and proven pedagogical tools.  

“Our graduates are prepared to work with individuals, families and communities to solve complex problems,” Denby-Brinson said. “The practice approaches that we teach derive from the impactful research produced by our faculty. We have a strong faculty, and they are tackling entrenched issues and devising real world solutions.” 

“I’m delighted to hear this news, and to note that the School has consistently ranked in the Top 10 since 1997,” said Dean Emeritus Jack Richman.

The latest rankings were compiled based on peer assessments from administrators, deans and faculty of accredited degree programs and are compiled on a scale of one (marginal) to five (outstanding). The surveys were sent in fall 2023 and early 2024. 

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A group representing UNC School of Social Work visits Solwezi, Zambia, with longtime collaborators from Rising Fountains Development Program (RFDP), a Zambian nonprofit organization founded in 2000, to learn more about local women’s savings and credit groups.

UNC School of Social Work ranked fourth in national research expenditures

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Social Work researchers helped the school secure a top four placement in the latest NSF HERD Survey.

University of Arizona President Robert Robbins to resign in midst of budget crisis, online school controversy

University of Arizona President Robert Robbins announced Tuesday he will be resigning at the end of his term — or sooner — as the school grapples with a $177 million budget shortfall. 

Robbins said in an email to the campus community that after “significant consideration and personal contemplation” he has decided to leave his leadership position — and is prepared to do so earlier if the Arizona Board of Regents can find a candidate before his term ends in June 2026.

“Although this is a difficult decision, it is the right decision for me and for the university that I love so dearly,” Robbins said in the email.

Arizona Board of Regents Chair Cecilia Mata said in a statement the board plans to move with "expediency" in its search for UA's next president. She thanked Robbins for his work and commitment to the university's values.

“He has built a legacy of commitment to student access and success, as well as advancement of the university’s land-grant mission," Mata said. "President Robbins implemented a strategic plan focused on the opportunities and challenges presented by the Fourth Industrial Revolution"

The school faces serious financial struggles after a multimillion-dollar budget shortfall was discovered last November. The stressors have brought on fears of layoffs and the elimination of the school's tuition guarantee for future students. Since then, school leadership and its presiding board have faced sharp criticism from the public and Gov. Katie Hobbs.

In January, Hobbs cited an Arizona Republic investigation on issues behind the University of Arizona’s budget shortfall, calling for action to reverse the university's "lack of accountability, transparency and leadership."

She has continued to voice her concern, telling reporters last Thursday she was "continuing to lose patience" with the UA President after an Arizona Republic investigation revealed Robbins authorized the hiring of a prominent lobbyist who was paid $10,000 a month by the university's foundation for the stated purpose of building UA's relationship with the country of Morocco. Behind the scenes, the lobbyist had another role: seeking to persuade the attorney general of California to erase millions of dollars in fines against Ashford University.

In a statement Tuesday, the governor said she looks forward to restoring "the public’s trust in one of our state’s most important public institutions." She said she will continue to offer support to the university and its presiding board as a replacement is identified.

"From Day One I have been laser-focused on addressing fiscal mismanagement and ensuring there is proper oversight and accountability from ABOR to protect our public universities," Hobbs said in the statement. "Moving forward, I will continue that work in coordination with UArizona leadership and ABOR."

There's also been other storms during his tenure. At the start of his presidency, federal officials indicted several college assistant coaches following a long-running investigation into college basketball. The NCAA ultimately launched its own investigation , and the fallout continued for years.

Last year, a hydrology professor was fatally shot on campus by a disgruntled former graduate student. A consultant's report ultimately found that the university's threat management process was ineffective and its security systems inadequate in the period leading up to the incident.

Robbins, a surgeon, has served as UA's president since 2017. He came to the role after a career in health care, including a stint as president of the Texas Medical Center in Houston.

His time at UA has been scarred by a financial shortfall and the controversial acquisition of a for-profit online school, Ashford University. The school has since been rebranded as the University of Arizona Global Campus, or UAGC, but was previously fined $22 million by the California attorney general for defrauding students.

Robbins also oversaw an explosion of research at the university and drove philanthropic contributions to the school. A day after he publicly told the Arizona Board of Regents that his university was experiencing major cash flow issues, UA announced a fundraising campaign called Fuel Wonder with a $3 billion goal. The money, more than $2 billion raised so far , is intended to go toward moonshot research projects and student financial aid.

For years, he and other university officials poured money into improving the school's rankings, producing high-caliber research and attracting top students with lucrative financial aid packages and merit scholarships. He admitted to the regents in November that the school's generosity with financial aid and research dollars was part of the reason UA had cash problems.

"We made a bet on spending money," Robbins said. "We just overshot."

Helen Rummel covers higher education for The Arizona Republic. Reach her at   [email protected] . Follow her on X   @helenrummel .

Sasha Hupka covers county government and election administration for The Arizona Republic. Do you have a tip to share on elections or voting? Reach her at  [email protected] . Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @SashaHupka . Follow her on Instagram or Threads:  @sashahupkasnaps .

Hannah Dreyfus is an investigative reporter for The Arizona Republic. Reach her at   [email protected] . Follow her on X   @Hannah_Dreyfus  or Threads   @hannahdreyfus .