Want to make a difference in the lives of the next generation? If so, pursuing a career in education is a great option for you.
Texas public schools currently employ more than 320,000 teachers — and employment opportunities are booming in the state, especially for those in education. With explosive population growth across metro areas like Dallas and Houston, there’s a greater need than ever for the next generation of teachers in all disciplines. Whether you want to pursue a role in K-12 education or more specialized roles like ESL and special education, a variety of careers awaits you.
In this guide, we’ll explore the vast landscape of Texas to unveil the best education and teaching programs for 2024 — both online and on-campus. Whether you’re a prospective student or a seasoned educator looking to advance in your career, you’ll find insights into cutting-edge programs, impactful learning outcomes, and the key factors that make these programs stand out.
Best Colleges to Earn a Teaching Credential in Texas: Campus-Based
To complement your own research, we’ll start by highlighting some of the top education and teaching programs in Texas that are accredited, offer affordable options, and have a wealth of student support services that can help you advance your teaching career. The section below covers three top campus-based programs for students that are looking for a more traditional experience. You’ll find more information about coursework, student outcomes, and more.
Whether you’re just embarking on your teaching journey or seeking to advance your career, these profiles can help you determine your must-haves in your future school of choice. This is just a preview of our full ranking of the best Texas education and teaching programs, coming later in 2024.
Texas A&M University
Texas A&M’s School of Education and Human Development stands out as a premier choice for aspiring educators. The Aggie Spirit is a set of values that students are instilled with, including respect, excellence, leadership, loyalty, integrity, and selfless service — all values that bode well for future educators.
The school has prepared the next generation of teachers for the past 50 years.
- Curriculum Details: Texas A&M’s School of Education delivers a comprehensive curriculum that blends theory and practice, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for diverse educational settings. The School of Education and Human Development is home to 22 undergraduate degree options, 27 graduate degree options, and eight minors across its four departments. You can find the full course offering here.
- Learning Outcomes: Graduates emerge with a deep understanding of pedagogy, leadership skills, and a commitment to fostering positive learning environments.
- Admissions Requirements: Admittance is competitive, with a focus on academic achievement, recommendation letters, and a compelling statement of purpose.
- Accreditation: Programs in Professional Education at Texas A&M are approved and fully accredited by the State Board of Educator Certification and the Texas Education Agency.
Delivery:
- Online
- On-Campus
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
Undergraduate Programs:
- BS in Education with an emphasis in Bilingual Education
- BS in Education with an emphasis in Special Education
- BS in Education, Middle Grades 4-8 Language Arts/Social Studies
- BS in Education, Middle Grades 4-8 Math/Science
- BS in Education, EC-6 Core Subjects/Generalist
Graduate Programs:
- MEd in Educational Administration with an emphasis in PK-12 Educational Leadership
- MS in Educational Administration with an emphasis in Higher Education Administration
- MS in Educational Administration with an emphasis in Student Affairs Administration in Higher Education
- MS in Educational Human Resource Development with an emphasis in Human Resource Development
- MS in Educational Human Resource Development with an emphasis in Adult Education
- MEd or MS in Bilingual/ESL Education (online and on-campus)
- MEd or MS in Educational Psychology with an emphasis in Developmental Sciences (online and on-campus)
- MEd or MS in Educational Psychology with an emphasis in Research, Measurement, and Statistics (online and on-campus)
- MEd in Educational Psychology with an emphasis in Creativity and Cognition (Online)
- MEd in Educational Psychology with an emphasis in School Counseling (Online)
- MEd in Educational Psychology with an emphasis in Learning Design and Technology (Online)
- MEd or MS in Special Education (Online)
- MEd or MS in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Multicultural Education
- MEd or MS in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Science Education
- MEd or MS in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Math Education
- MEd in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Reading and Literacy
- MEd in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Urban Education
- MEd in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math
- MEd in Curriculum and Instruction
Specialization Options:
- Elementary Education
- Special Education
- Secondary Education
- Educational Psychology
The University of Texas at Austin
Elevate your teaching career with the prestigious College of Education at the University of Texas at Austin. This esteemed institution encompasses five academic departments, 10 cutting-edge research centers, and the University of Texas High School District (UTHSD), creating a robust and diverse learning environment and one of the best education and teaching programs in Texas.
- Curriculum Details: UT’s College of Education offers a forward-thinking curriculum that integrates research-based practices, technology, and pedagogical innovation.
- Standout Student Services: UT prioritizes student success with personalized academic advising, mentorship programs, and access to state-of-the-art facilities.
Delivery:
- Online
- On-Campus
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
Undergraduate Programs:
- BS in Education
Graduate Programs:
- MA in Autism and Developmental Disabilities
- MA in Bilingual/Bicultural Education
- MA in Cultural Studies in Education
- MA in Early Childhood Education
- MA in Early Childhood Special Education
- MA in Human Development, Culture and Learning Sciences
- MA in Learning Technologies
- MA in Physical Education Teacher Education
- MA in School Psychology
- MA in Social Studies Education
- MA in STEM Education
- MEd in Autism and Developmental Disabilities
- MEd in Bilingual/Bicultural Education
- MEd in Counselor Education
- MEd in Cultural Studies in Education
- MEd in Early Childhood Education
- MEd in Early Childhood Special Education
- MEd in Educational Policy and Planning
- MEd in Exercise Physiology
- MEd in Health Behavior and Health Education
- MEd in Higher Education Leadership and Policy
- MEd in Human Development, Culture and Learning Sciences
- MEd in Kinesiology or Health Education
- MEd in Language and Literacy Studies
- MEd in Learning Technologies
- MEd in Movement and Cognitive Rehabilitation Science
- MEd in Physical Education Teacher Education
- MEd in Quantitative Methods
- MEd in Social Studies Education
- MEd in Sport Management
- MEd in STEM Education
- MEd in Teacher Leadership, Mentoring & Professional Development
- MEd in Texas Principal Leadership Academy
Specialization Options:
- All-Level Special Education
- Bilingual Core Subjects/Generalist
- English as a Second Language Generalist
- Youth and Community Studies
University of North Texas
Established in 1890 as a teacher’s college, the University of North Texas (UNT) has been a pioneering force in educator preparation for over a century.
The College of Education at UNT stands out as a top education and teaching program in Texas, offering academic programs that foster transformative educators. The school is proud to produce the highest number of educators in the state — about 1,000 new graduates a year.
- Curriculum Details: The college offers 12 bachelor’s degrees, 19 master’s and 15 doctoral concentrations that provide hand-on training. Field experiences happen in the Kristin Farmer Autism Center, the Child and Family Resource Clinic, and the Center for Sport Psychology and Performance Excellence.
- Learning Outcomes: UNToffers twice the field experience of other university programs. Its Professional Development School model places students in 200 schools within 30 school districts in North Texas for a full year of mentorship from a certified teacher.
- Financial Aid Opportunities: The College of Education offers $293,000 in scholarships annually to help support students financially — along with travel grants, stipends, and more.
Delivery:
- Online
- On-Campus
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
Undergraduate Programs:
- BS in Community and Family Services
- BS in Human Development & Family Science
- BS in Individual and Family
- BS in Allied Health
- BS in Physical Education
- BS in Bilingual Education
- BS in Elementary Education
- BS in Special Education
Graduate Programs:
- MEd in Autism Intervention
- MEd in Bilingual Special Education
- MEd in Curriculum and Instruction MEd
- MS in Early Childhood Education
- MEd in Educational Diagnostician
- MEd in Educational Leadership
- MEd in Elementary Education
- MEd in Family Policy and Program Admin
- MS in Gifted and Talented
- MEd in High-Incidence Disabilities
- MS in Kinesiology
- MS in Learning and Development
- MEd in Middle School Education
- MS in Research and Evaluation
- MEd in Secondary Education
- MEd in Higher Education
- MS in School Counseling
- MEd in School Counseling
Top Online Teaching & Education Degree Programs in Texas
If you’re looking for a degree option that’s flexible and affordable, choosing an online teaching program in Texas is a great option. Maybe you want to work a job to fund your studies, or perhaps you’re already a teacher looking for an advanced degree: Online programs offer a great, convenient alternative to in-person education.
No matter the type of specialization you’re looking for, you’re likely to find a top online education and teaching program in Texas that can work for you.
In this section, we highlight some top schools to explore as you begin your search for a quality online program.
Texas Tech University
Texas Tech University offers a variety of standout online teaching programs. While these programs can be completed fully online, some are also available in Fredericksburg, Highland Lakes, and Waco.
The faculty at Texas Tech, renowned for their expertise, actively engages with online learners, fostering a sense of community and mentorship. The university’s dedication to personalized support is evident in robust online resources, dedicated advisors, and a collaborative virtual environment.
Additionally, you can complete a Bachelor of Science degree and earn your teacher certification in one calendar year. The TechTeach Across Texas program is a fast-track, one-year teacher preparation program, combining intense clinical experiences with applicable online courses in Texas district-based partnerships around the state.
Here’s a highlight of the online teaching programs you can find at Texas Tech:
Undergraduate Programs:
- Education with Elementary EC-6 Certification, BS
- Education, BS: Middle-Level English Language Arts Concentration
- Education, BS: Middle-Level Math Concentration
- Education, BS: Middle-Level Science Concentration
- Education, BS: Middle-Level Social Studies Concentration
- Education, BS: Secondary English Concentration
- Education, BS: Secondary Math Concentration
- Multidisciplinary Science, BS: Composite Science Concentration
Graduate Programs:
- MEd in Curriculum and Instruction
- MEd in Curriculum and Instruction for Dual Credit Credential
- MEd in Curriculum and Instruction for RAIDER Teach
- MEd in Curriculum and Instruction with a Concentration in Curriculum Studies/Teacher Education (CSTE)
- MEd in Language & Literacy
- MEd in Curriculum and Instruction with a Concentration in STEM
- MEd in Curriculum and Instruction with a Concentration in Blended Learning/Personalized Learning
- MEd in Bilingual Education and English as a Second Language (ESL)
- MEd in Instructional Technology
- MEd in Counselor Education
- MEd in Counselor Education with a Concentration in Clinical Mental Health
- MEd in Counselor Education with a Concentration in School Counseling
- MEd in Educational Leadership
- MEd in Educational Psychology
- MEd in Educational Psychology with a Concentration in School Psychology
- MEd in Higher Education Administration (on-campus)
- MEd in Higher Education Administration (online)
- MEd in Educational Leadership with an emphasis in Educational Policy
- MEd in Special Education with a Concentration in Educational Diagnostician
- MEd in Special Education with a Concentration in Deaf and Hard of Hearing
- MEd in Special Education with a Concentration in Autism
- MEd in Special Education with a Concentration in Deaf & Blindness
- MEd in Special Education with a Concentration in Generic Special Education
- MEd in Special Education with a Concentration in Orientation and Mobility
- MEd in Special Education with a Concentration in Visual Impairment
- MEd in Special Education with a Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis – Online
Program Options:
- Fully Online
- Partially Online
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
Specializations Offered:
- Secondary Education, Undergraduate Minor
- Special Populations, Undergraduate Minor
- English as a Second Language
- Special Education
- STEM Education
- Literacy Education
- AVID Education
University of North Texas
UNT Online is an excellent choice for teacher education in a flexible environment. You’ll find an 18-credit graduate certification program offered by the UNT College of Education, as well as a diverse menu of graduate programs.
UNT offers a variety of online graduate degrees in an accelerated format, some in as few as 12-18 months.
Here’s a highlight of the online teaching programs you can find at University of North Texas:
Graduate Programs:
- MEd in Curriculum and Instruction
- MEd in Educational Leadership
- MEd in Higher Education General Administration
- MEd in Special Education, Autism Intervention
- MEd in Special Education, Educational Diagnostician
- MEd in Special Education, High-Incidence Disabilities
- MEd in Teaching, Elementary Education
- MEd in Teaching, Middle School Education
- MEd in Teaching, Secondary Education
- MS in Early Childhood Education
- MS in Educational Psych
- MS in Educational Psychology, Gifted and Talented
- MS in Educational Psychology, Learning and Development
- MS in Educational Psychology, Research & Evaluation
Program Options:
- Fully Online
- Partially Online
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
Types of Education & Teaching Degrees You Can Earn in Texas
Texas offers a variety of best-in-class online and on-campus education and teaching programs for students, so you can find a program that suits you at any point of your educational journey and career path. And as a reminder, pursuing an advanced degree is one of the surest ways you can earn more money in your career.
In this section, we highlight some attractive undergraduate, graduate, and certificate education programs in the state.
Undergraduate Teaching/Education Degrees in Texas
Associate Degrees in Education
This degree is designed for individuals aspiring to enter the field of education as paraprofessionals or teacher assistants. An Associate of Arts in Teaching degree provides foundational knowledge in educational theories, classroom management, and child development. This is ideal for those seeking a starting point in education before pursuing a bachelor’s degree and teacher certification.
Accredited Texas Colleges with Associate Degrees in Education
- Alamo Colleges District, St. Philip’s College (Online or On-Campus)
- Lonestar College (On-Campus)
- South Texas College (Online)
Bachelor’s Degrees in Education
A Bachelor’s Degree in Education is the main stepping stone towards becoming a full-time teacher. A typical program will delve into specialized subjects such as mathematics, science, or literature education, providing a deep understanding of teaching methodologies and classroom management.
This degree is designed for aspiring educators seeking in-depth knowledge and skills to pursue a fulfilling career as licensed teachers in primary or secondary schools.
Accredited Texas Colleges with Bachelor’s Degrees in Education
- Texas Tech University (Online or On-Campus)
- The University of Texas at Austin (On-Campus)
- The University of Texas at El Paso (Online)
Graduate Education Degrees in Texas
Master’s Degrees in Education (MEd)
A Master’s Degree in Education (MEd) is an advanced program for experienced educators seeking professional development and career advancement. Focused on specialized areas such as educational leadership, curriculum design, or special education, it equips graduates with advanced teaching strategies and leadership skills. This degree is ideal for educators aiming for leadership roles or seeking expertise in a specific educational field, like literacy instruction or educational technology.
Accredited Texas Colleges with Master’s Degrees in Education
- Texas A&M University (Online or On-Campus)
- The University of Texas (On-Campus)
- UT Tyler (Online)
Doctorate of Education (EdD) Programs
A Doctor of Education program is an advanced degree catering to seasoned education professionals, including teachers, administrators, and policymakers. This rigorous program goes beyond classroom-focused research, emphasizing advanced methodologies, policy analysis, and organizational leadership.
Tailored for individuals committed to driving systemic improvements, the EdD equips candidates with the skills to enact meaningful change in educational institutions, making it an ideal choice for those aspiring to leadership roles and impactful contributions to the field.
Accredited Texas Colleges with Doctorate (EdD) Programs
- Texas Tech University (Online)
- Texas Lutheran University (Online)
- Texas A&M University (Online)
Education PhD Programs
A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education program is designed for scholars and researchers aiming to contribute to the theoretical and empirical foundations of education. This rigorous and research-intensive program is ideal for individuals seeking to delve deeply into educational issues, conduct original research, and make significant scholarly contributions to the field of education.
Accredited Texas Colleges with Education PhD Programs
- University of North Texas (Online or On-Campus)
- The University of Texas (On-Campus)
- Texas Tech University (Online)
Graduate Certificates
A graduate certificate in education is tailored for educators and professionals in the field seeking specialized knowledge without pursuing a full master’s degree.
Ideal for those aiming to enhance their teaching skills, these certificates cover focused areas such as educational leadership, curriculum development, or specialized teaching methodologies. Geared toward current educators or those considering a career shift into education, these programs provide targeted expertise to advance careers and impact student learning.
Accredited Texas Colleges with Education Graduate Certificates
- Texas Woman’s University (Online or On-Campus)
- University of Texas (On-Campus)
- A&M Commerce (Online)
Financial Aid and Scholarships for Education Students in Texas
No matter your specialization, you have a range of financial aid options that can help fund your online or on-campus education and teaching programs in Texas. State-specific opportunities include the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s Loan Repayment Program, aimed at educators, the Texas College Work-Study Program, and the Work-Study Student Mentorship Program (WSMP).
Here are some other programs and resources to explore:
- College for All Texans – This is a directory of financial resources for students in Texas.
- State of Texas Financial Aid — The comptroller’s website shares state-sponsored scholarships that are only available to students attending community colleges, technical colleges and universities in Texas.
- Texas Association of Future Educators — Here you’ll find a curated range of scholarships that are available to education students in Texas.
- Charles Butt Foundation Scholarship — This scholarship provides up to $8,000 – $10,000 per year, depending on program, for up to four years at 16 university-based educator preparation programs across the state.
This is just a small glimpse of some options that are available to you. To learn more, be sure to check out our financial aid guide and scholarships guide, where you can learn more about ways to fund your teaching degree.
Job Outlook and Earnings Potential for Teachers in Texas
Employment opportunities are on a rapid rise in Texas. In fact, overall employment is projected to grow 18.3% between now and 2030 — more than double the national average. The job market for education graduates in the state is robust, especially in major metro areas like Houston, Dallas, and Austin. Teaching jobs are in high demand, driven by population growth and retirements across the state.
Out of the top 10 highest growth areas for those with a bachelor’s degree, teaching roles take four of the top spots, according to the Texas Wage Commission.
Salaries vary across regions, with urban areas generally offering higher pay to attract qualified educators. According to TWC, the average wage for elementary, middle, and secondary school teachers is around $60,000, while the average wage for substitute teachers is just over $30,000.
To learn more about the latest trends in job growth, new job openings, and wages, check out the latest employment trends in Texas in the table below.
| Job Growth Rate (2018-2028) | Average Annual Openings (2018-2028) | Annual Mean Wage (2023) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary School Teachers | 13% | 11,710 | $59,790 |
| Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School | 13% | 1,400 | $60,870 |
| Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary | 13% | 11,710 | $84,815 |
| Adult Basic Education, Adult Secondary Education, and English as a Second Language Instructors | -2% | 4,200 | $58,590 |
| Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education | 10.9% | 42,200 | $61,810 |
Sources: Projections Central; Bureau of Labor Statistics; O*Net;Texas Workforce Commission
Texas Teaching Professional and Student Resources
Navigating the educational landscape can be complex, but we’ve gathered five key resources that can help as you research your future teaching and education program in Texas. Explore these resources for legal support, professional development, and a community of like-minded professionals — and much more. Also be sure to look for Facebook Groups, Reddit communities, and other social media resources to learn more.
- Texas AFT Texas AFT is a robust statewide union, uniting 66,000 members and advocating for the rights of educators, support staff, and retirees across K-12 and community college settings. Committed to fostering a fair and just educational system, Texas AFT addresses key issues such as classroom conditions, fair wages, and employee benefits.
- Texas Association of Teacher Educators Texas Association of Teacher Educators (TxATE) helps to promote teacher education goals and ideals in Texas. Membership is open to professionals who are concerned with improving the education of teachers.
- Texas Classroom Teachers Association The TCTA’s mission is to protect the rights and benefits of Texas teachers and instructional staff. They offer legal protection for teachers in the state, with staff attorneys that can help you with job-related questions or concerns.
- Texas Education Agency As the state’s primary authority on education, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) plays a pivotal role in shaping educational policies and practices. Serving as a comprehensive resource for educators, students, and parents, TEA offers a plethora of tools and information — from curriculum guidelines and standardized testing information to professional development resources.
- Texas State Teachers Association The Texas State Teachers Association (TSTA) is a part of the National Education Association (NEA). The member organization offers many benefits to educators, including legal assistance and member advocacy, business and technology services, affiliate and leadership development, and more.
