Best Online Master's in Education Programs

Earning a master's degree in education can lead to career advancement and increased earning potential. Check out the top ranked programs, resources, and career outlook here.
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Updated March 13, 2024

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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

#1 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

  • Champaign, IL
  • 4 years
  • 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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,446
Out-of-state
$34,444
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,635
Out-of-state
$27,674
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
60%
Students Enrolled
56,607
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
84% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

  • Chapel Hill, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: N/A

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,019
Out-of-state
$34,882
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,552
Out-of-state
$28,844
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
20%
Students Enrolled
31,641
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

Johns Hopkins University

  • Baltimore, MD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: N/A

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

Credits to Graduate: 33-36

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$58,720
Out-of-state
$58,720
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$58,720
Out-of-state
$58,720
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
8%
Students Enrolled
32,049
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
80% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#4 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

University of Southern California

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: N/A

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$60,446
Out-of-state
$60,446
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$60,446
Out-of-state
$60,446
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
13%
Students Enrolled
49,318
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#5 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

Purdue University Global-Indianapolis

  • West Lafayette, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: N/A

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,080
Out-of-state
$13,356
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,730
Out-of-state
$9,700
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
43,458
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

Boston University

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: N/A

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$58,560
Out-of-state
$58,560
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$58,560
Out-of-state
$58,560
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
19%
Students Enrolled
36,104
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
15% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#7 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

National University

  • San Diego, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online

Programmatic Accreditation: N/A

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. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,320
Out-of-state
$13,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,480
Out-of-state
$15,480
Retention Rate
100%
Acceptance Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
17,135
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
80% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#8 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

University of South Carolina-Columbia

  • Columbia, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: N/A

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,288
Out-of-state
$33,528
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,734
Out-of-state
$29,760
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
35,471
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

Biola University

  • La Mirada, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: N/A

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$44,382
Out-of-state
$44,382
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,006
Out-of-state
$12,006
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
61%
Students Enrolled
5,551
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#10 Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale

  • Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: N/A

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

Credits to Graduate: 36

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$20,800
Out-of-state
$20,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$29,632
Out-of-state
$29,632
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
96%
Students Enrolled
19,861
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

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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.

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

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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