Masters in Education Online
Teachers with a state-issued license can explore online master's in education programs to enhance their careers. Graduates may work as curriculum designers, behavior specialists, or special education teachers. Some programs offer specializations in bilingual education and digital literacies.
Most programs require a bachelor's degree and recommendation letters. Applicants may need to meet a GPA cutoff. Full-time enrollees can complete a master's in two years.
This page lists the best online master's in education programs. Read on to learn about costs, common classes, and the benefits of earning a master's in education.
Questions About Master's in Education Programs
What can I do with a master's in education besides teaching?
Potential master's in education jobs include principal and district administrator. Graduates may also work as corporate trainers.
Do teachers with a master's degree get paid more?
Many public school districts give teachers with a master's degree an automatic raise. Teachers who advance their education further may earn even more money.
Can I complete a master's in education entirely online?
Yes. Many master's in education programs run fully online, allowing teachers to continue their careers.
Featured Online Education Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Why Get a Master's in Education?
Earning a master's in education can help experienced teachers further their careers. Graduates can use their education and expertise to guide schools or districts. The best online master's in education programs also help prepare students for doctoral programs or jobs outside the education field.
Online programs let teachers work while in school. Teachers can apply new knowledge and skills right away, helping improve student outcomes. Online programs also let learners choose from top programs nationwide. Degree-seekers can take classes without commuting or relocating.
How Much Does a Master's in Education Cost?
A master's degree costs an average of $66,340, according to EducationData.org. However, the cost varies by school and students' residency status. Learners pursuing an online master's in education from a public in-state school usually pay the most affordable tuition. Students attending private or out-of-state schools typically pay more.
Online learners save money by avoiding a commute. They also do not pay for campus housing or meal plans. Degree-seekers can explore tuition reimbursement to help make their degree more affordable. Some schools and districts pay for teachers' degrees if they agree to work in their position for a set time after graduation. Learners can also complete the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal grants and loans.
Additional Online Student Fees
Online learners should budget for expenses like a new laptop or upgraded internet connection. Many computer companies offer student discounts. Learners attending a hybrid program should also budget for commuting and parking costs.
Licensed teachers may qualify for endorsement after graduation. Earning an endorsement requires submitting transcripts and paying a fee. Fee schedules change and vary by state. Students can check a state's teacher licensure board for the latest information.
How Much Do Education Majors Make?
Master's in education jobs pay varying amounts. Instructional coordinators earn a median annual salary of $66,970, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This figure exceeds the annual median salary for all occupations by about $25,000. Professionals working for government agencies or K-12 schools make more than their peers at colleges or universities.
Geographic location also affects salary. Instructional coordinators living in Washington, D.C., Connecticut, and Oregon make $86,390-$100,350. Workers can increase their salary potential by gaining on-the-job experience.
Courses in a Master's in Education Program
Some master's in education online programs offer specializations. Options may include educational leadership and curriculum and instruction. Another option is instructional design. Most programs include a final-semester capstone.
See below for three common classes in a master's program with a concentration in curriculum and instruction. Please note that graduation requirements differ for other degrees. Not all curriculum and instruction programs use the same class names or academic requirements. Students should check with their prospective schools for more information.
The Reflective Practitioner
Most learners take this class in their first semester. Students analyze their teaching experience and identify ways to become better educators. Degree-seekers create a growth plan they use throughout the program and after graduation. This plan features the latest proven practices. The class does not require prerequisites.Differentiated Instruction
Differentiated instruction ensures that education meets K-12 students' needs. Coursework covers modifying lessons and assessments, communicating learners' progress, and tracking growth. These requirements train degree-seekers to help their students advocate for and receive modifications. Learning outcomes include promoting differentiated instruction within a school or district.Educational Research
This class prepares students to complete research projects, pursue a doctorate, and contribute to the education field after graduation. Degree-seekers analyze the latest scholarly literature through research essays and peer discussions. Learners apply their knowledge in a final-semester capstone.
How to Become a Teacher
Aspiring teachers need at least a bachelor's degree in education. They can also graduate from a state-approved teacher-preparation program. Colleges and universities offer these programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Coursework includes pedagogy classes and student teaching. Degree-seekers can take classes in the content area they plan to teach.
Licensed educators perform many roles. They may sponsor student clubs, coach sports, or lead faculty teams. These tasks vary between elementary and secondary school teachers. Educators can stay current with the latest education best practices by taking professional development (PD) classes.
Licensure for Teachers
States regulate public education through teacher licensure. Rules and regulations vary by state. In California, prospective teachers apply for a preliminary license. Candidates need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited school. They must also complete a teacher-preparation program and pass at least one exam. Approved programs must meet specific curriculum guidelines.
Candidates who meet these requirements can apply for a single-subject license. California offers more than two dozen options, including English and health science. California teaching licenses cost $100. Licensed teachers pay the same fee to add a new credential to their license.
California teachers with an initial license earn a clear license after five years. They do so by completing 150 PD hours. Teachers select PD classes from approved providers. Many professionals complete this requirement during the summer. Upgrading a license involves submitting PD paperwork and paying a $50 fee.
