As an aspiring educator, there’s never been a better time to break into teaching. With a teacher shortage in Ohio and nationwide, the demand for competent and passionate educators has never been greater. Every educator’s path is different, but regardless of the journey the first step is always gaining a high-quality teaching education. Luckily, there are many top-ranked teaching programs in Ohio to help you launch your career.
To help you find the right program, we’ve highlighted three of the best education programs in Ohio, both on-campus and online. Plus, you’ll discover what degrees are best suited for your career goals.
Best Colleges to Earn a Teaching Credential in Ohio: Campus-Based Programs
Ohio is home to a number of nationally recognized universities with top education programs that arm you with the classroom experience and foundational knowledge to successfully teach young minds. With so many options, it can be difficult to find the right program for you, which is why we’ve outlined three of the finest education and teaching programs in Ohio. In this guide, you’ll gain insight into each program’s track record, degree options, specializations, tuition, and more. Plus, you’ll get a sneak peek of our full rankings of the top education programs in Ohio coming later in 2024.
Ohio University
With a 136-year history, the Patton College of Education at Ohio University has proven experience in developing leaders in education. Through the university’s OHIO Center for Clinical Practice in Education, aspiring educators benefit from a reimagined clinical model of preparation that focuses on enhancing learning and making an impact within the school and community. The university also provides several of the best online education graduate programs in Ohio for added flexibility and convenience.
Tuition and Fees:
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees
- Ohio Residents: $13,746
- Out-of-State Residents: $24,114
- Graduate Tuition and Fees
- Ohio Residents: $583 per credit hour
- Out-of-State Residents: $1,079 per credit hour
Delivery:
- Online
- On-Campus
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
Undergraduate Programs:
- Associate of Applied Science in Child Development
- Bachelor of Science in Education
- Bachelor of Music – Music Education
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Education
- Master of Coaching Education
- Master’s in College Student Personnel
- Master’s in Computer Education and Technology
- Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction
- Master’s in Educational Leadership
- Master’s in Educational Research and Evaluation
- Master’s in Higher Education
- Doctorate in Counselor Education & Supervision
- Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction
- Doctorate in Educational Leadership
- Doctorate in Educational Research and Evaluation
- Doctorate in Higher Education
- Doctorate in Instructional Technology
Specialization Options:
Undergraduate students can specialize in the following areas:
- Adolescent-to-Young Adult Education
- Early Childhood and Elementary Education
- Middle Childhood Education
- Special Education
- Health and Physical Education
Graduate students can specialize in the following areas:
- Adolescent-to-Young Adult Education and Multi-Age with Licensure
- Art Education
- Counselor Education
The Ohio State University
With diverse undergraduate and graduate programs, Ohio State offers several of the best teaching programs in Ohio. As one of the top-ranked research universities in the nation, Ohio State will prepare you to be a leader both in the classroom and the community with hands-on experiences and opportunities. The university also offers several top-rated online education programs in Ohio.
Tuition and Fees:
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees
- Ohio Residents: $12,859
- Out-of-State Residents: $38,365
- Graduate Tuition and Fees
- Ohio Residents: $13,452
- Out-of-State Residents: $41,182
Delivery:
- Online
- On-Campus
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
Undergraduate Programs:
- Associate of Arts – Early Childhood Development and Education
- Bachelor of Science in Education
- Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science (HDFS)
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Education
- Master of Arts in Educational Studies
- Master of Learning Technologies
- Doctor of Philosophy in Teaching and Learning
- Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Studies
- Doctor of Education in Educational Studies
- Education Specialist
Specialization Options:
Undergraduate students can specialize in the following areas:
- Business Education
- Career and Technical Education
- Child and Youth Studies
- Primary Education (P-5)
- Primary Education (P-5) with Visual Impairment License
- Family and Consumer Sciences Education
- Integrated Language Arts (7-12)
- Integrated Social Studies (7-12)
- Middle Childhood Education
- Sports Coaching, Recreation and Physical Education
- Science and Mathematics Education
- Special Education
- Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Education
- World Language Education
Graduate students can specialize in the following areas:
- Adolescent, Post-secondary and Community Literacies
- Biomedical Education
- Counselor Education
- Counseling Psychology
- Dramatic Arts-based Research, Teaching and Learning
- Educational Administration
- Educational Policy
- Educational Psychology
- Foreign, Second and Multilingual Language Education
- Higher Education and Student Affairs
- Philosophy and History of Education
- Multicultural Equity Studies in Education
- Literature for Children and Young Adults
- Language, Education, and Society
- Integrated Studies
- Sensory Impairments and Inclusion
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
- School Psychology
- Rethinking Early Childhood and Elementary Education
- Reading and Literacy in Early and Middle Childhood
- Quantitative Research, Evaluation, and Measurement
- Workforce Development and Education
- Special Education
Otterbein University
Otterbein University’s cutting-edge education programs allow you to gain field experience from your very first class. Located in a diverse community, you’ll learn culturally responsive teaching methods and put them into practice in a vast range of environments.
Tuition and Fees:
- $34,899
Delivery:
- Online
- On-Campus
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Science in Education
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Arts in Education in Curriculum and Instruction
- Master of Arts in Educational Mathematics
Non-Degree Programs:
- Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Licensure
- Educational Studies
Specialization Options:
Undergraduate students can specialize in the following areas:
- PreK-5 Primary Education
- K-12 Intervention Specialist
Top Online Teaching and Education Degree Programs in Ohio
Thinking about a career in education but worry about balancing school, work, and personal commitments? Luckily, there are several excellent online education programs in Ohio to help you reach your career goals wherever and whenever it’s most convenient. In online teaching programs, you’ll complete coursework either asynchronously or through live, online classes. You will still be able to participate in fieldwork, like student teaching, by working with schools and districts in your local community. To help you find your ideal program, we’ve highlighted three of the best online teaching degree programs in Ohio. These schools provide a sneak peek into our full rankings of top online education programs in Ohio coming later in 2024.
With a small faculty-to-student ratio and holistic curriculum, Mount Vernon Nazarene University provides a top-tier education in a student-focused environment. To help working adults easily fit education into their busy schedules, the university offers some of the top online education programs in Ohio. Plus, Mount Vernon Nazarene University partners with local community colleges to make it easier to transfer into one of their online programs.
Tuition:
- Undergraduate: $398 per credit hour
- Graduate: $498 per credit hour
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Arts in Education
Delivery:
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
- Fully Online
Specialization Options:
Graduate students can specialize in the following areas:
- Professional Educator’s License
- Intervention Specialist (Advanced License)
- Intervention Specialist (Initial License)
Bowling Green State University
Founded as a teacher-training institution, Bowling Green State University brings its history to aspiring educators across the country with the best online teaching programs in Ohio. Bowling Green’s online education programs empower you to earn your degree faster through shorter courses that can be completed in as few as seven weeks.
Tuition:
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees
- Ohio Residents: $13,519
- Out-of-State Residents: $38,365
- Graduate Tuition and Fees
- Ohio Residents: $508.20 per credit hour
- Out-of-State Residents: $519.20 per credit hour
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Education
- Master of Music – Music Education
- Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate
- Career Technical Workforce Education Certificate
- Computer Technology Endorsement Certificate
- Instructional Design Certificate
- Curriculum and Teaching: Early Childhood Education 4-5 Generalist Endorsement
Delivery:
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
- Fully Online
Specialization Options:
Graduate students can specialize in the following areas:
- Curriculum and Teaching
- Special Education: Applied Behavior Analysis
- Special Education: Assistive Technology
- Special Education: Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Special Education: Secondary Transition
Miami University
Miami University brings its world-class education to you with several of the top online teaching programs in Ohio. Led by the expert faculty who teach on campus, students in Miami University’s online teaching programs will receive the same high-quality education they would receive in Oxford, OH. However, what makes the university stand out among the best online teaching programs in Ohio is its commitment to providing comprehensive academic support students need to succeed and thrive in class and their teaching careers.
Tuition:
- Graduate Tuition and Fees
- Ohio Residents: Starting at $16,263.60
- Out-of-State Residents: Starting at $36,337.92
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction
- Master of Education in Special Education (available to Ohio residents only)
- Master of Education in Educational Technology
- Master of Arts in Instructional Design and Technology
- Instructional Design and Educational Technology Certificate
Program Options:
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
- Fully Online
Specialization Options:
Graduate students can specialize in the following areas:
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Special Education
- Educational Technology
Types of Education and Teaching Degrees You Can Earn in Ohio
Many of the top education programs in Ohio offer undergraduate and graduate degrees as well as certificate programs. How do you know which one is right for you? Below we’ve outline several of the most popular teaching degree programs in Ohio to help you decide which match your career goals.
Undergraduate Teaching/Education Degrees in Ohio
Associate Degrees in Education
If you’re looking to break into the education field quickly, then an associate degree in education is the right choice for you. While these two-year programs won’t allow you to become a teacher, they will help build a foundational understanding of key concepts in education. With an associate degree in education, you can work as a tutor, teacher’s aide, or childcare worker.
Accredited Ohio Colleges with Associate Degrees in Education
- Ohio State University (Online)
- Ohio University (On-Campus)
- University of Cincinnati (Online)
Bachelor’s Degrees in Education
Earning a bachelor’s degree in education is the first step to becoming a certified educator, and many top teaching programs in Ohio offer this degree. In these four-year programs, you’ll develop an understanding of curriculum development, assessment strategies, and classroom management. Bachelor’s degrees in education also provide a springboard for pursuing graduate study.
Accredited Ohio Colleges with Bachelor’s Degrees in Education
- Xavier University (On-Campus)
- University of Toledo (Online)
- Ohio Dominican University (On-Campus)
Graduate Education Degrees in Ohio
Master’s Degrees in Education (MEd)
While a master’s degree in education is not required for initial licensure in Ohio, it may be a required if you want to teach in other states. Even if you’re not legally required to obtain a master’s degree, earning one can help you develop specialized skills that boost your resume and earning potential.
Accredited Ohio Colleges with Master’s Degrees in Education
- Ashland University (On-Campus)
- Cleveland State University (On-Campus)
- University of Mount Union (Online)
Doctorate of Education (EdD) Programs
For those looking to pursue a career as a superintendent or curriculum director, a Doctor of Education can help you get there. These advanced programs take four to six years to complete and prepare you to drive change within your school, district, and community.
Accredited Ohio Colleges with Doctorate (EdD) Programs
- Youngstown State University (Online and On-Campus)
- University of Dayton (On-Campus)
- Bowling Green State University (On-Campus)
Education PhD Programs
While an EdD is geared toward professionals in leadership roles, a PhD in education is for individuals looking to make a difference in education through research. Education PhD programs will prepare you to identify research gaps, interpret literature, and develop new research that advances education.
Accredited Ohio Colleges with Education PhD Programs
- University of Toledo (Online)
- Kent State University (On-Campus)
- Ohio University (On-Campus)
Graduate Certificates
Already an educator but looking to level-up your skills? A graduate certificate can be a great way to gain knowledge in a specific area like educational technology or curriculum design, and can help expand your existing skills. Plus, with some graduate certificates, you can get a head start on a master’s degree if you choose to pursue one.
Accredited Ohio Colleges with Education Graduate Certificates
- Miami University (Online and On-Campus)
- Notre Dame College (Online)
- Youngstown State University (On-Campus)
Financial Aid and Scholarships for Education Students in Ohio
You’ve decided on your program and are ready to apply, but how will you pay for your teaching education? From teaching scholarships to federal financial aid, there are many ways to fund your education. Since finances are personal, how you pay for your education will depend on your out-of-pocket contribution, the school and degree program you choose, financial aid eligibility, and your career and earning potential.
We know figuring out how to pay for school can be overwhelming, which is why we created a financial aid guide and a scholarships guide to help you learn more about ways you can fund your teaching degree.
Job Outlook and Earnings Potential for Teachers in Ohio
In Ohio and nationwide there is a shortage of certified educators, which means your teaching abilities will be in great demand. In fact, the demand for teachers and instructors in Ohio is expected to grow 11% by 2030, compared to just 2% nationally, making now an ideal time to earn a teaching degree. There are many rewarding education careers to choose from including special education teachers, teaching assistants, and instructional coordinators. Take a look at the table below to gain deeper insight into teaching employment trends in Ohio.
| Job Growth Rate (2020-2030) | Average Annual Openings (2020-2030) | Annual Mean Wage (2023) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teachers and Instructors | 11% | 1,080 | $59,610 |
| Elementary School Teachers | 6% | 4,030 | $68,880 |
| Special Education Teachers | 17% | 90 | $64,560 |
| Teaching Assistants | 9% | 4,260 | $32,670 |
| Instructional Coordinators | 8% | 500 | $70,150 |
Sources: O*NET Online; Bureau of Labor Statistics
Ohio Teaching Professional and Student Resources
- Ohio Department of Education The Ohio Department of Education’s mission is to enhance the quality of education for the state’s 1.7 million students. The department provides resources and support for teachers to help raise student achievement.
- Ohio Education Association Representing 120,000 teachers, faculty members, and support professionals who work in Ohio schools, the Ohio Education Association aims to improve public education within the state. The organization provides professional development opportunities throughout Ohio.
- Ohio Association for Career and Technical Education The mission of the Ohio Association for Career and Technical Education is to advocate for career-technical and adult education within the state. If you are interested in working adult or technical education, this association provides information and hosts events to help you become a better educator.
- EdReports As an independent nonprofit, EdReports strives to improve K-12 education by providing educators with the highest quality instructional materials. Led by expert educators, EdReports conducts independent reviews to ensure teachers have access to quality instructional materials that enhance student learning.
- Ohio Curriculum Support Guide Like EdReports, the Ohio Curriculum Support Guide also helps ensure teachers have access to effective instructional materials. Educators have access to a collection of insights, resources, and lessons that have proven to be effective.
