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Online Master's Degrees in Education & Teaching: Comparing Schools

Author: Timon Kaple
Editor: STEPS Staff

An education master’s degree opens doors to a range of teaching and leadership positions in a variety of settings. Discover how you can advance your career by earning your degree through the convenience and affordability of one of today’s best online master’s in education programs.

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Today’s graduate students in education programs benefit from the convenience and flexibility of online learning. Remote students can balance multiple life responsibilities, including family obligations and careers, while pursuing their graduate education. Several colleges and universities provide online master’s of education programs with specializations for concentration areas that are well-suited for distance learning. The majority of requirements for these degrees can be completed remotely, with any essential hands-on training or teaching components completed either in-person or partially online. In the following sections, we will examine the various types of online education master’s programs and what you can expect in each scenario.

Core Competencies of the Education Master’s

When you pursue a master’s in education, you develop a set of core competencies that help you carry out essential functions in a myriad of administrative and leadership roles in the field. Accredited online master’s of education programs typically build their curricula around standards determined by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). Here are five competency areas in which you will develop mastery in a graduate education program.

Communication Skills

Working in an administrative or leadership role requires you to interact with a variety of individuals, including young students, colleagues, administrators, and parents. You will need to develop effective communication skills to carry out essential tasks on a daily basis. You will also be required to use the latest technology available to educators for those educational and administrative tasks.

Create a Strong Educational Environment

You must develop the skills that allow you to create safe environments that are conducive to learning. This includes staying up-to-date on the latest educational research and understanding local, state, and federal regulations for educational institutions. Your master’s program will help you explore the political, economic, legal, and social components of the education system.

Understanding Teaching Methods

Whether or not you work in the classroom or an administrative role, you will need to understand a wide variety of effective teaching methods and the technologies on which they rely. Today’s teaching methods are highly dependent on technology and you need a fairly in-depth understanding of instructional design, student cognition, online literacy, and educational product design.

Working with a Diverse Student Body

To be an effective leader or teacher in today’s educational system requires you to be a sensitive professional who is comfortable working with students from diverse backgrounds. It is important to recognize racism and ethnocentrism in educational institutions and battle these elements to create a safe and culturally sensitive environment for all students, employees, and administrators.

Problem Solving

A major part of working as a teacher or administrator in education is solving problems and getting creative with limited resources. In a graduate program, you will develop the necessary tools to handle budgetary, personnel, and logistical issues that professionals commonly face in educational institutions today.

Practicum & Internships

Practicums and internships offer exceptional learning experiences outside of the traditional classroom setting. Both opportunities provide hands-on learning, allowing students to gain an authentic experience of what it’s like to work in their field of study.

Practicums take place in a more structured scenario under the guidance of a trained professional, supervisor, or faculty member. Students typically spend a few hours on-site each week for practicums.

Internships are similar to entry-level jobs and usually come with a significant amount of independence and responsibilities. Internships typically require students to commit to a regular part- or full-time schedule and usually last the duration of a semester or longer.

Specializing Your Online Master’s in Education

A significant advantage of pursuing a master’s degree is the opportunity to specialize in a particular area. It’s crucial to select a focus that aligns with your career goals, whether you aim to work with a specific age group of students, pursue a particular subject, or concentrate on a specific skill. The following section delves into common specialized education degrees, ranging from special education and education administration to concentrations in English and mathematics.

Online Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE)

The master’s degree in early childhood education prepares you for careers as an education consultant, family support worker, preschool lead teacher, early childhood services director, adjunct professor, and more. In these programs, you develop specialized skills that focus on the instruction of children from infancy through early grade school. Depending on the program, distance learners complete this program in as few as 12 months.

Online Master’s Degree in Secondary Education

The master’s degree in secondary education helps you develop the necessary instructional and leadership skills to become a teacher or school administrator. Professionals outside of teaching with this master’s degree typically seek careers as principals, instructional coordinators, educational policy developers, educational consultants, and more. Full-time remote students usually finish this degree in two year or less.

Online Master’s in English Education

These degree programs allow you to dive deeply into language development, literacy acquisition, and teaching methods. Upon completion of these programs, you will be able to implement the latest English-focused pedagogies, teach a diverse body of students at all learning levels, and assist with curriculum development. Most remote learners spend two years completing this program.

Online Master’s in Mathematics Education

You can improve your depth of knowledge and improve your pedagogical skills in algebra, calculus, geometry, and more with a master’s in mathematics education. You will learn the best teaching practices for secondary and post-secondary mathematics courses. These master’s programs help you explore current issues and research in math education to ultimately improve the quality of education can offer your students.

Online Master’s in Physical Education

If you have an interest in teaching physical education in schools or wish to become well-informed, effective sports coach, a master’s in physical education maybe you could fit for you. Graduate students who pursue this degree learn the best techniques to maximize student health benefits while maintaining a safe and fun environment.

Online Master’s in Science Education

In a science education master’s program, you will delve into cutting-edge educational theories and research to enhance your pedagogical skills. Upon finishing this degree, you will be equipped to work as a STEM educator and teach courses in physics, environmental science, chemistry, biology, and other related subjects at the middle school, high school, and community college levels.

Online Master’s in Social Studies Education

Distance learners and social studies education programs typically focus on improving their K-12 social studies curricula and teaching methods. Additionally, over the span of two years, graduate students can also learn how to pursue social studies careers beyond the classroom including positions as curriculum developers, consultants, museum educators, and more.

Online Master’s in Special Education

Graduate students in special education master’s programs learn to provide educational and supportive services for students with emotional, cognitive, physical, or behavioral disabilities. These professionals typically move on to careers in public elementary and secondary schools. You may also pursue careers outside of public schools in the private sector including special care facilities.

Online Master’s in Curriculum & Instruction

Earning a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction enables you to enhance a school system’s educational materials, introduce new learning technologies, organize teacher workshops, analyze crucial student learning data, and more. The goal is to develop the most challenging and effective curricula possible, enabling elementary and high school students to maximize their educational experience.

Online Master’s in Education Administration

School administrators ensure that schools follow established educational standards, stay within their budgets, and provide students with the best teachers and education possible. Professionals with a master’s in education administration often obtain employment as principals, superintendents, admissions officers, and college deans. Most schools, colleges, and universities need multiple professionals trained in these areas to assume leadership roles.

Online Master’s in School Counseling

A master’s in school counseling prepares you for work in public and private institutions. Upon completion of the program, you will be able to guide students through emotional, social, and personal issues in addition to helping them prepare for a future career or additional education. The master’s program ensures that you receive a full range of training to be able to handle diverse and complex counseling scenarios.

Online Master’s in Education vs. Online Master’s in Teaching

The master’s in education and master’s in teaching are often referred to interchangeably. This is not necessarily accurate and is a disservice to each discipline. The major difference between the two is that master’s of education programs typically serve students interested in careers in education administration and curriculum design. Students in teaching graduate programs are usually looking to build upon an established teaching skill set to advance their careers inside the classroom. A master’s program in teaching helps you gain practical experience and official credentials, usually in a specialized area or age group.

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In many cases, both the master’s in education and master’s in teaching are available entirely online, some of which require an occasional in-person component depending on the program. Each program also takes about two years to complete. When deciding which program is the best fit for you, the most important point to consider is what you intend to do upon graduation. If you wish to expand upon your teaching career and see yourself working directly with students, perhaps a master of arts in teaching is an excellent choice. Alternatively, if you are interested in administrative positions, curriculum design, education policies, and other education-focused roles outside of the classroom, a master’s in education will serve you best.

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FAQs for the Online Master’s Degree in Education

To make it easier for prospective education graduate students to navigate the wealth of information about online education master’s degrees, we’ve distilled some of the most crucial points to consider. The following section addresses some of the most commonly asked questions by individuals interested in pursuing a graduate degree in education, from licensure requirements to alternative career paths.

Will an online master’s in education lead to licensure?

As you conduct research on perspective graduate programs, you will find that some programs offer tracks for students who already possess a teacher’s license. Alternatively, there are programs designed to lead students toward licensure. The latter track includes special training that prepares you for licensure in all 50 states. Many education programs hold accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). With this credential, you can be sure that your school’s online master’s in education curriculum will provide you with the necessary training to pass required exams and skills tests.

How long does an online master’s in education take?

The duration of your online master’s program will vary between schools. Remote learners can spend as few as 12 months earning their master’s degree. On the other hand, some distance students need approximately three years to meet all of the requirements. Much of this variance comes from the availability of classes and each school’s graduation requirements. Some online programs feature self-paced courses, which some students can finish more quickly than cohort-learning or traditional classes. Graduation requirements may include a master’s thesis or final project. These endeavors are often research-based and the time it takes to complete the requirements can vary greatly between students.

How much does earning a master’s in education online cost?

The amount of money you spend on your master’s education varies between schools. Depending on the program, online students may receive a tuition discount and pay less than traditional on-campus students. Some programs may require more credits for graduation than others. If your program requires a master’s thesis based on original research, you may need to register for placeholder credits, sometimes referred to as “thesis credits,” while you conduct that research. Aside from the number of credits, some schools may require distance learners to buy more books or supplies then others.

The table below shows the number of required credits and cost for several online master’s in education programs. If cost is a critical factor for you, consider a program that made our list of the most affordable online master’s in education degrees.

School NameNo. of CreditsCost/CreditTotal Cost
Walden University45$375$16,875
Old Dominion University30$620$18,600
Oregon State University47-53$571$26,837 – $30,263
University of Nebraska – Lincoln30$357$10,710
Park University30$695$20,850

What else can I do with a master’s in education?

When most people think about a master’s in education, they consider it advanced training for teachers working in classroom settings. While this is certainly one aspect of graduate-level training in education, there are far more careers available in additional fields and industries outside of the classroom. Many professionals with these degrees work in leadership roles at educational and nonprofit organizations. Some degree holders work as educational directors at zoos, museums, and aquariums. Alternatively, you could find yourself working for a technology company developing educational software, a publishing company working on school textbooks, or as a development specialist in a human resources department. The skills you acquire in an education program will come in handy in a variety of careers, so use your imagination and explore all of your interests or hobbies for related professional careers.

Best Online Options for Master’s Degrees in Education

With the increasing availability of online degree programs, it’s now more convenient than ever to enhance your knowledge and career as an educator. Pursuing an online master’s in education can also help you meet state teaching certification requirements, even if your undergraduate degree is in a different field. For current educators, obtaining a master’s degree can help refine your skills, specialize in a particular area, and make you a more competitive candidate in today’s job market. However, it can be challenging to determine which programs are the best fit. To aid in your search, we’ve identified this year’s top online master’s degrees in education based on significant criteria such as affordability, strength of student support, and program flexibility. Take a look at the ranking below.

1

CUNY Hunter College

New York, New York

Why We Selected CUNY Hunter College:
The School of Education at Hunter College offers diverse degree programs preparing prospective teachers for highly effective practice, focusing on NYC educational challenges. Undergraduate programs fulfill New York State Initial Certification requirements, pairing an education major with an Arts & Sciences major and Hunter Core requirements. Graduate programs (Fall/Spring admission) require competitive GPAs and relevant experience, leading to careers as certified teachers, counselors, or leaders. Highlights include small class sizes, extensive faculty support, financial aid, and scholarships. Prospective students should review program details and deadlines on the School of Education website.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers a unique tuition waiver that significantly reduces costs for students from low-income families, making education more accessible.
  • Students can benefit from high clinical placement rates due to strong partnerships with local healthcare employers, enhancing job readiness.
  • Accelerated completion options allow students to finish their degrees faster, reducing overall tuition costs and facilitating quicker entry into the workforce.
School Details
  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average Tuition$11,090
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course73%
2

Eastern Michigan University

Ypsilanti, Michigan

Why We Selected Eastern Michigan University:
Eastern Michigan University offers a comprehensive Education teaching degree program designed to produce skilled educators ready to tackle today’s classroom challenges. The program requires completing 30-51 credit hours, depending on the specific track, and can be finished in 18 to 36 months. Tuition is approximately $512 per credit hour, with financial aid options available. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree, a minimum GPA, and transcripts. Graduates can pursue roles as classroom teachers, educational leaders, curriculum specialists, and early childhood administrators. The program is CAEP accredited, enhancing job prospects and licensure readiness.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers substantial tuition waivers and scholarships to eligible students.
  • Specialized career tracks with high clinical placement rates attract those seeking hands-on experience.
  • Faculty expertise and employer partnerships enhance networking opportunities.
School Details
  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average Tuition$16,562
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course80%
3

Youngstown State University

Youngstown, Ohio

Why We Selected Youngstown State University:
Youngstown State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Teacher Education & Leadership Studies, requiring a minimum of 123 semester hours. The curriculum includes over 300 hours of pre-clinical experiences and comprehensive student teaching, ensuring students are well-prepared for licensure and educational roles. The program emphasizes inclusive teaching practices, aiming to develop skilled educators who foster innovative learning environments. Financial aid opportunities, including scholarships, are available to assist with tuition costs. Graduates are positioned for diverse career pathways in public and private schools, including administration or specialized education support roles.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers significant tuition waivers for students demonstrating high financial need, making education more accessible.
  • Students benefit from generous merit scholarships that can reduce out-of-state tuition to in-state rates based on academic performance.
  • The program features strong employer partnerships that facilitate high job placement rates for graduates, enhancing career readiness.
School Details
  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average Tuition$6,453
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course56%
4

Salem State University

Salem, Massachusetts

Why We Selected Salem State University:
Salem State University offers a combined bachelor’s and master’s 4+1 elementary education program. This five-year program includes student teaching and a master’s degree in the final year, with field experiences starting in the third year (3-10 hours weekly) and culminating in a full-year teaching internship. The program emphasizes culturally responsive teaching, equity, and offers optional dual licensure in elementary and special education. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, faculty reference, and passing MTEL exams. Financial benefits include reduced debt through district-funded internships. Graduates are prepared for teaching roles and advanced studies in education.
Program Highlights
  • Tuition waivers are available for eligible students, reducing financial barriers.
  • Employer partnerships offer valuable networking and job placement opportunities.
  • Specialized career tracks provide focused learning with expert faculty guidance.
School Details
  • AccreditationNECHE (formerly NEASC)
  • Average Tuition$2,520
  • Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course74%
5

SUNY College at Oswego

Oswego, New York

Why We Selected SUNY College at Oswego:
SUNY Oswego’s education programs, including the Master of Science in Education for Trade Education and Bachelor of Science in Technical Education, prepare specialists for New York State teaching certification, offering both initial and professional credentials aligned with state standards. The undergraduate program spans four years, while the master’s typically takes two years, with undergraduate costs around $18,679 annually (financial aid available). Admissions require academic records and supplemental materials. Graduates report strong employment rates, supported by practical field experiences and diverse career paths. The School of Education holds national accreditation from AAQEP.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers substantial financial support through various tuition waivers, significantly reducing costs for eligible students.
  • Students can benefit from employer partnerships that provide internships and job placements, enhancing career readiness and networking opportunities.
  • Accelerated completion options allow students to finish their degrees faster, saving time and money while entering the workforce sooner.
School Details
  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average Tuition$11,310
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course55%
6

University of Toledo

Toledo, Ohio

Why We Selected University of Toledo:
The University of Toledo’s Licensure and Master’s Program (LAMP) offers a combination of theoretical and practical experience, leading to an Ohio teaching license and a Master of Education degree. Structured for adult learners with bachelor’s degrees in specific content areas, it typically takes one year to complete for secondary education (grades 7-12), including areas like Language Arts and Mathematics. Admissions require a minimum GPA of 2.7 and acceptable scores on the Ohio Assessments for Educators. Financial aid options are available, and 90% of graduates receive job offers before graduation, with extensive field experience through local school partnerships.
Program Highlights
  • Tuition waivers are available for eligible students, reducing financial barriers to higher education significantly.
  • Waived application fees enable low-income students to apply without additional costs, enhancing accessibility.
  • Specialized career tracks and faculty expertise offer students targeted academic and professional growth opportunities.
School Details
  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average Tuition$14,758
  • Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course66%
7

Cabrini University

Radnor, Pennsylvania

Why We Selected Cabrini University:
Cabrini University offers a Master of Education (M.Ed.) program with state teacher certifications, typically spanning 1-2 years based on course load. The program prepares students for roles in education, such as classroom teaching and educational leadership, covering pedagogy, curriculum development, and classroom management. Career outcomes include classroom teachers, instructional coordinators, and curriculum specialists. Prospective students can explore scholarship opportunities, and admission typically requires high school transcripts and English proficiency tests for international students. The program is available on-campus in Radnor, Pennsylvania, with specialization options to align with career goals.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers tuition waivers for eligible students, reducing financial barriers.
  • It provides specialized career tracks tailored to high-demand job sectors.
  • Accelerated completion options are available for motivated students.
School Details
  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average Tuition$2,183
  • Student/Faculty Ratio14/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course75%
8

Concordia University-Chicago

River Forest, Illinois

Why We Selected Concordia University-Chicago:
The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Elementary Education at Concordia University Chicago prepares educators for teaching students in grades 1-6. The program requires 36-39 credit hours, including coursework and a capstone experience, with 100 hours of fieldwork. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree, a cumulative GPA of 2.75, and specific prerequisite coursework. The program emphasizes reflective practice, diversity in education, and effective instructional strategies. Graduates are eligible for a Professional Educator License (PEL) in Illinois. Financial aid options and competitive tuition rates are available.
Program Highlights
  • Students can benefit from unique tuition waivers that significantly decrease college expenses based on financial need or special circumstances.
  • The program offers specialized career tracks tailored to high-demand industries, enhancing job readiness and employment opportunities for graduates.
  • Networking opportunities through strong employer partnerships facilitate internships and job placements, ensuring valuable connections during and after the program.
School Details
  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average Tuition$9,090
  • Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course85%
9

Columbus State University

Columbus, Georgia

Why We Selected Columbus State University:
Columbus State University offers several teaching degree programs tailored to different educational needs. The Master of Education in Elementary Education is designed for T-4 certified teachers, leading to T-5 certification in grades Pre-K through 5, focusing on inclusive learning environments. The Master of Arts in Teaching provides initial T-5 certification in various subjects for grades 6-12. Both programs are approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. Career opportunities include positions as elementary or secondary school teachers. Prospective students should consult the university’s catalog for degree requirements, admissions criteria, and financial aid options.
Program Highlights
  • Oklahoma State University offers tuition waivers based on residency and financial need.
  • The program includes scholarships from private donors and foundations for qualified students.
  • Specialized tuition waivers support students from foster care and military backgrounds.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$6,300
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course70%
10

Gordon College

Wenham, Massachusetts

Why We Selected Gordon College:
Gordon College’s education program is nationally recognized for preparing top-quality educators. The elementary education major provides a strong foundation in learning and content areas, preparing graduates for initial Massachusetts licensure and nationwide certification. Students gain over 100 classroom hours before full-time teaching and benefit from one of only 15 U.S. programs earning an A+ in evidence-based reading instruction. Career outcomes include teaching roles and specialized graduate studies. Second majors or minors enhance flexibility, while financial aid supports diverse paths, including Christian education. Hands-on experience and research-backed methods ensure graduates are effective educators.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers tuition waivers for students with demonstrated financial need.
  • It provides accelerated completion options for students seeking faster career entry.
  • The school boasts high employer partnerships with job placement guarantees.
School Details
  • AccreditationNECHE
  • Average Tuition$6,300
  • Student/Faculty Ratio11/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course39%
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Timon Kaple AUTHOR

Timon Kaple, Ph.D., is a full-time writer and researcher. His work focuses on sociolinguistics, small-group folklore, the anthropology of sound, higher education, and student support services. He has experience as an ethnographer and enjoys conducting fieldwork and archival research.

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