Schools across Michigan, especially in metro areas like Grand Rapids, are always looking for new teachers. If you have a passion for education, getting a teaching degree may be a good career choice. Whether you’re drawn to the flexibility of online learning or the immersive on-campus experience, this guide spotlights the top education and teaching programs in Michigan.
Discover innovative teaching methodologies, cutting-edge curricula, and the support you need to launch or advance your teaching career. This comprehensive guide delves into some of the best education and teaching programs in Michigan, examining details like learning outcomes, tuition, admissions requirements, and financial aid opportunities to help you choose one that suits your needs.
Best Colleges to Earn a Teaching Degree in Michigan
Explore the top education and teaching programs in Michigan in this spotlight, which identifies programs offering affordability, accreditation, and student support. This section highlights three exceptional programs, providing a comprehensive overview to aid your school search. Whether you’re starting your journey in education or seeking to elevate your expertise, you’ll find valuable insights into high-quality programs tailored for success in the dynamic field of teaching.
Michigan State University
Michigan State University (MSU) is a solid choice for finding some of the best education and teaching programs in Michigan. MSU offers three teacher preparation programs and two graduate teacher education programs. If you already have a bachelor’s degree, you can continue your education with a master’s degree in teaching and curriculum and a PhD in curriculum, instruction, and education.
MSU also allows you to specialize in elementary, secondary, or special education to help you develop the unique skills and knowledge you need for each level of teaching. Each four-year teacher preparation program includes a year-long internship to give students the experience and confidence they need to lead their own classrooms. The PhD program is fully customizable, so you can focus on learning about what interests you.
Delivery:
- Online
- On Campus
Undergraduate Programs:
- Elementary Education Teacher Preparation
- Secondary Education Teacher Preparation
- Special Education Teacher Preparation
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Arts in Teaching and Curriculum
- PhD in Curriculum, Instruction, and Teacher Education
Specialization Options:
- Elementary Education
- Secondary Education
- Special Education
University of Michigan
The University of Michigan’s Marsal Family School of Education prepares and empowers future educators with its wide range of bachelor’s and master’s programs in education. To get a Bachelor of Arts or Science with teacher certification, you need to apply your first year and start in your third year. This means you complete your first two years at another one of the university’s schools or a different school completely, giving you more flexibility. If you already have a bachelor’s degree, you can advance your education by applying as a non-degree applicant to complete the teacher certification requirements or complete a one-year master’s degree with a teacher certification program in elementary or secondary education. You can also complete the 20-credit Michigan Department of Education Prek-12 English as a Second Language course to become qualified to teach multilingual learners.
Delivery:
- Online
- On Campus
Undergraduate Programs:
- Undergraduate Elementary Teacher Education
- Undergraduate Secondary Teacher Education
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Arts with Elementary Teacher Certification
- Master of Arts with Secondary Teacher Certification
Specialization Options:
- Elementary Education
- Secondary Education
Wayne State University
The College of Education at Wayne State University offers several bachelor’s and master’s programs in education that focus on practical application and hands-on experience to prepare future educators for the classroom. There are two admission levels for each bachelor program, and students must complete 53 general credits in level one before applying for level two to work towards a teaching certificate.
If you’re interested in art, you can specialize in visual arts education and take classes like Introduction to Art Education and Oil Painting. If you already have a teaching certificate and want to advance your knowledge, you can complete the Master of Education in Teaching and Learning to help you pursue research or leadership positions in the education field.
Delivery:
- Online
- On Campus
Undergraduate Programs:
- Early and Elementary Education
- Secondary Education
- Special Education
- Visual Arts Education
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Education in Teaching and Learning
- Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Studies
Specialization Options:
- Elementary Education
- Special Education
- Secondary Education
- Visual Arts
Top Online Education & Teaching Degree Programs in Michigan
With the rise of online and hybrid education programs, obtaining a teaching certificate in Michigan has never been more accessible. Ideal for working professionals and those seeking affordability and convenience, online learning offers a compelling alternative to traditional brick-and-mortar settings.
Many top online teaching and education programs in Michigan provide comprehensive teaching degrees almost entirely online, allowing students to pursue their education without compromising on quality. Stay tuned for an upcoming rankings list that identifies some of the best online teaching and education programs in Michigan. The three schools previewed below provide a glimpse into the wealth of opportunities available where quality education is more accessible than ever.
Concordia University
Concordia University’s Michigan Department of Education (MDE) approved teacher preparation programs allow you to obtain your teaching certificate completely online. You never have to step foot on campus, but you do have to obtain 245 hours of classroom observation and 450 hours of student teaching experience in person. You can find an internship locally, or Concordia can help place you to ensure you’re observing passionate and experienced teachers. Concordia is one of only four schools approved to offer an expedited teaching program, so the bachelor’s program is only three years and $475 per credit. The master’s program is one year plus student teaching requirements and costs $690 per credit. You can also apply for Concordia’s Uncommon Scholarships to help cover tuition or take advantage of the school’s payment plan to break your tuition up into monthly installments.
Undergraduate Programs:
- Elementary Education
- Secondary Education
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Arts with Elementary Teacher Certification
- Master of Arts with Secondary Teacher Certification
Program Options:
- Full-Time
- Fully Online
Specializations Offered:
- Elementary Education
- Secondary Education
Grand Valley State University
Grand Valley State University has both undergraduate and graduate teacher preparation programs, but only the graduate programs are available online. If you already have a bachelor’s degree in the subject you plan to teach, you can complete the three-semester elementary or secondary graduate teacher certification program. Classes in the secondary program are all online, but orientation is on campus. You must also complete your fieldwork in person. The elementary program is a hybrid format, so you must attend in-person courses at the Grand Rapids campus in addition to taking online courses. Other requirements for both programs include 30 hours of experience working with the appropriate age group and at least a 3.0 GPA for the final 60 credits of your undergraduate degree.
Undergraduate Programs:
- Elementary Education Teacher Preparation
- Secondary Education Teacher Preparation
- Special Education Teacher Preparation
Graduate Programs:
- Elementary Graduate Teacher Certification
- Secondary Graduate Teacher Certification
Program Options:
- Full-Time
- Fully Online
- Hybrid
Specializations Offered:
- Elementary Education
- Secondary Education
- Special Education
Central Michigan University
Central Michigan University has a wide range of undergraduate and graduate teaching programs, and most of them are available online or in a hybrid model. If you need a bachelor’s degree, you can complete an elementary or secondary education teaching program in a hybrid model with major and minor in subjects like teaching English learners or special education. You could also major or minor in music education, but this hands-on field is only available on campus. If you already have a bachelor’s degree and just need a teaching certificate, complete the one-year Education Pathway for Resident Educators to Professionals (eduPREP) program that combines school-based clinical experience with online coursework.
Undergraduate Programs:
- Elementary Education
- Secondary Education
- Teaching English Learners
- Music Education
Graduate Programs:
- eduPREP
- Special Education: The Master Teacher
- Master of Arts in Education: Curriculum and Instruction
Program Options:
List all that are available in bullet point form.
- Full-Time
- Fully Online
- Hybrid
Specializations Offered:
List all that are available in bullet point form.
- Elementary Education
- Secondary Education
- Special Education
Types of Education & Teaching Degrees You Can Earn in Michigan
Colleges offering the best education and teaching programs in Michigan offer a diverse array of teaching credentials from associate degrees to graduate certificates to accommodate students at different stages of their academic and professional journeys. Whether you’re seeking an online or on-campus experience, explore the following sections to learn about the different types of education and teaching programs available in Michigan.
Undergraduate Teaching/Education Degrees in Michigan
Associate Degrees in Education
An associate teaching degree is designed for individuals seeking an introductory pathway into the field of education. Ideal for those interested in paraprofessional roles or exploring teaching as a career, it offers foundational insights into educational principles and classroom dynamics while providing a stepping stone for further academic pursuits in teaching.
Accredited Michigan Colleges with Associate Degrees in Education
Bachelor’s Degrees in Education
A bachelor’s degree in education is designed for individuals passionate about shaping young minds. Ideal for aspiring teachers, this program provides foundational knowledge in pedagogy, classroom management, and subject matter expertise. It equips students with the skills needed to embark on rewarding careers in primary or secondary education.
Accredited Michigan Colleges with Bachelor’s Degrees in Education
Graduate Education Degrees in Michigan
Master’s Degrees in Education (MEd)
A master’s degree in education is designed for educators seeking advanced knowledge and specialized skills. This program goes beyond foundational teaching principles and offers in-depth studies in areas like curriculum development, educational leadership, and technology integration. It is ideal for those aspiring to leadership roles or wanting to enhance their expertise in the field.
Accredited Michigan Colleges with Master’s Degrees in Education
Doctorate of Education (EdD) Programs
An EdD is the pinnacle of academic achievement for educators. Geared toward experienced professionals, this program focuses on research, leadership, and policy development in education. EdD graduates contribute to shaping educational systems, driving innovation, and influencing positive change in the field.
Accredited Michigan Colleges with Doctorate (EdD) Programs
Education PhD Programs
A PhD in Education is a research-oriented terminal degree for educators seeking to make significant contributions to the field. This program delves into advanced theoretical and methodological studies, preparing graduates who want to shape the future of education for impactful roles in academia, policy, and educational research.
Accredited Michigan Colleges with Education PhD Programs
Graduate Certificates
A graduate certificate in education is a targeted program for professionals seeking specialized skills in specific areas of education. Offering focused coursework, it allows individuals to enhance their expertise without committing to a full master’s degree. It’s an ideal option for career advancement and skill development.
Accredited Michigan Colleges with Education Graduate Certificates
Financial Aid and Scholarships for Education & Teaching Students in Michigan
If you want to complete a teaching program but aren’t sure how to fund it, there are plenty of financial aid options to explore. In addition to federal aid programs such as Pell Grants and Stafford Loans, Michigan offers state-specific scholarships like the Michigan Competitive Scholarship and the Tuition Incentive Program. There are also two scholarships specifically for future educators, the MI Future Educator Fellowship and the MI Future Educator Stipend.
Many universities, including Michigan State University with its scholarships for undergraduates and education interns, offer teaching scholarships as well. These resources make pursuing a teaching degree in Michigan more accessible and affordable. If you’re not sure which scholarship is best for you or how to apply for one, check out these guides on the 30 Top Scholarships for Public Service Students and Getting Financial Aid for Your Public Service Degree.
Job Outlook and Earnings Potential for Teachers in Michigan
Michigan’s job market for new teachers is generally positive with demand varying by region and subject. Metro areas like Detroit and Grand Rapids often have a higher demand for teachers. Salaries for educators in Michigan are competitive with an average teacher salary slightly below the national average.
While salaries vary based on factors such as experience and district, the state’s commitment to education funding contributes to a stable job market. Opportunities for growth and advancement are prevalent, making Michigan an attractive destination for those entering the field of education.
| Job Growth Rate (2020-2030) | Average Annual Openings (2018-2028) | Annual Mean Wage (2023) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education and Childcare Administrators, Preschool and Daycare | 11% | 80 | $47,450 |
| Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary | 2% | 490 | $98,890 |
| Education Administrators, Postsecondary | 9% | 390 | $110,610 |
| Education Administrators, All Others | 16% | 70 | $84,950 |
| Special Education Teachers, All Other | 4% | 110 | $68,480 |
Sources: O-NET OnLine, 2020-2030; Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022
Michigan Teaching Professional and Student Resources
- Michigan Department of Education This official state education portal provides news, resources, and information on certifications and licensing to keep you up to date on state-specific policies and initiatives.
- Michigan Education Association (MEA) The MEA is the state’s largest teachers’ union, offering valuable resources, professional development opportunities, and advocacy for educators. Joining provides access to a supportive community and updates on education policy.
- Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB) The MASB is a crucial resource for both aspiring and current teachers since it provides insights into governance, policies, and legal matters within Michigan’s educational landscape. The site also provides access to valuable tools and networking opportunities.
- TeachMichigan Teach Michigan is dedicated to connecting educators and offering valuable resources. From job listings to professional development opportunities, the platform supports teachers at all stages of their careers in the state.
- Michigan Virtual Michigan Virtual is a pioneer in online education, offering a range of courses and resources for educators and students. Explore professional development opportunities and innovative teaching strategies to enhance your educational journey.
