Between 2020 and 2030, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts a 10% increase in employment in the fields of education, training, and libraries. Classroom teacher, early childcare expert, and instructional coordinator are some examples of job titles. According to the BLS, the median yearly compensation for educators is $52,380.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Education Masters Programs
Is Online Education Masters worth it?
It is for many students. The pay you could make with a master’s in teaching and the satisfaction you anticipate from your new position will determine whether the degree is worthwhile. Your compensation might not much improve, for instance, if you desire to become a career counselor. Even so, you might prefer that job to your present one.
For individuals who pursue jobs as school principals or superintendents, a master’s in education is more likely to pay off monetarily.
What can I do with a master’s in education?
Students who earn a master’s degree in education can find employment as career counselors, principals, or superintendents of schools. Some of them hold positions as training and development professionals, policy analysts, education researchers, and heads of educational programs.
After getting an online education masters, you can still be eligible for a raise even if you decide not to change careers. Teachers with master’s degrees typically receive somewhat greater compensation from many school systems.
Are education graduates in demand?
Relatively, yes. Jobs for education professionals, including school principals, training and development specialists, and career counselors, are expected to increase by 8–11% between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS. For all occupations combined, the average national growth rate is 8%.
How much money can I make with online education masters?
Individuals with a master of education (M.Ed.) earn an average base salary of $60,000 per year, according to Payscale data collected in March 2022. Elementary school teacher, high school teacher, instructional designer, executive director, and special education teacher are all common job titles.
According to the BLS, kindergarten and elementary school teachers get an average yearly salary of $60,660. High school teachers earned an average of $62,870 annually.
What are the highest paying jobs with a master’s in education?
School superintendent and high school principal are the two positions that pay the most for those with online education masters (as of March 2022, respectively, $123,570 and $98.490). The school district’s top official is the superintendent. To put plans for their school districts into action, these experts collaborate with school board members.
Principals at high schools are in charge of managing the faculty and personnel. They also deal with student disciplinary issues. These experts guarantee that kids are in a secure setting that supports learning. Parents and students may be counseled regarding behavioral difficulties.
What Can I Expect From an Online Education Masters Program?
To address large groups of pupils, teachers must have strong communication abilities. Strong interpersonal, active listening, and organizing abilities are also required.
James Bacon has a BS in business from Wake Forest and an MS.Ed in education entrepreneurship from the University of Pennsylvania. Connecting with pupils is an essential soft skill for educators, according to Bacon.
Bacon added, “Whether working with adults or adolescents, I think that developing relationships and being able to inspire others to take action is crucial. Given that it is interpersonal, I also believe that thoughtful communication is really crucial.
To monitor students’ progress, get in touch with parents and administrators, and improve instruction, teachers frequently employ a variety of software programs and technology tools. To improve instruction, teachers should feel at ease using educational technology.
According to Bacon, “I think we will continue to see a dependence on technology to better execute the duties we are tasked with doing and to bring additional options to students.”
A master’s degree in education examines curriculum development, educational leadership, and teaching strategies. The knowledge and expertise earned via professional teaching experience and undergraduate programs are built upon in this degree. Some master’s in education programs provide career-changers a route to teaching license.
A master of education, a master of science, a master of teaching online, or a master of arts are just a few of the degree kinds that education institutions could offer.
Those looking to change careers who need to fulfill state teaching license requirements frequently benefit from an online master’s in education. A master of arts or science might specialize on one field of study. A licensed teacher with a few years of experience may benefit from an online education masters that focuses in a particular field of education.
The curricula for master’s degrees in education are adaptable and let students customize their education to fit their professional objectives. Specific subject areas (including English and history), curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, and educational technology are popular focuses.
The majority of 30-36 credit online master’s in education programs take 1-2 years to complete. Many schools allow instructors to hold down a job while they are enrolled. Over the academic year, students in these programs take 1-2 classes per term, and during the summer, they attend full time.
The majority of students also finish capstone projects, which entail producing a thesis, conducting research, or assembling a resume. Some programs might also call for an internship or practicum.
For level-two certification, some states require instructors to continue their professional development.
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Programs.
Popular Online Education Masters Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Education Masters Program?
Courses differ amongst programs, however the majority of master’s in education curriculum include the same fundamental subjects. The next part explores five typical courses in these programs.
Instructional Strategies and Models
This course, which covers subjects including classroom management and student assessment, aids learners in developing and defining their instructional style. Discussions of diverse teaching methods aid in the formation of these choices. Teachers can differentiate education and incorporate technology to fit the requirements of each student with the use of research-based solutions. The training frequently involves team projects with other teachers.
Research in Education
To assess proposed tactics, instructional practices, and educational policies, educators must be knowledgeable about research methodologies and analysis approaches. Students learn about techniques for locating and evaluating data in this course. Along with diverse justifications for methodologies and methods for interpreting outcomes, students also study numerous research tactics and approaches. Study ethics and respect for research subjects are covered in assignments.
Differentiating Curriculum and Instruction
Though not all children learn in the same way, teachers must assist all students in achieving certain learning objectives. Differentiating instruction enables teachers to create adaptations that cater to each student’s unique learning requirements. These modifications can boost student engagement and offer various teaching modalities.
Planning for School Improvement
This course gives school administrators the tools they need to assess their institutions’ performance and consider adjustments that will benefit educational initiatives. Students study how to understand and apply what they have learnt from the data, as well as how to appraise data. The program also covers how to create a school’s mission and goals as well as how to accommodate the cultural, social, and academic needs of all pupils.
Teacher Leadership
In order to assist teachers in setting and achieving their leadership objectives, this course analyzes opportunities for teacher leadership in the classroom, school, and school district. The emphasis of the assignments is on communication and teamwork as they examine how teachers can affect students and other teachers. Aspirants to degrees gain insight into their motivations and leadership style.
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Education Masters Program?
The majority of institutions have identical admissions standards for their on-campus and online graduate programs. To apply for a master’s in education program, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree. A bachelor’s degree in education may be a prerequisite for several master’s degrees in education. If not, potential students might have to finish prerequisites before beginning the master’s program.
Some graduate schools may also demand interviews, writing samples, or a portfolio in addition to the requirements specified below.
Application
Prospective students can frequently apply to undergraduate programs through a college application platform like the Common App. The majority of graduate applications must, however, be submitted through the university. Typically, there is an application cost for graduate applications.
Test Scores
For graduate admissions, several institutions demand a GRE score. To get the best score on the GRE, you should start preparing early. Think about purchasing a study manual and taking some practice exams. Aim for a total verbal and math score of at least 310.
Letters of Recommendation
2-3 letters of recommendation are frequently needed for graduate schools. If you have work experience, these letters need to be from individuals who have seen your work in person. You may, for instance, ask your immediate boss or the human resources manager. Ask for a recommendation from a master’s degree holder if at all possible. They might be in a better position to determine whether you can handle the demands of a master’s degree.
Resume and Work Experience
As part of the admissions process, applicants could be required to submit their resumes and job history. A certain level of prior professional experience is needed for some programs. Resumes for college applications should be one page long and highlight extracurricular activities in addition to academic accomplishments.
Essays
A personal statement, statement of purpose, letter of intent, or another graduate school essay could be required by graduate programs. Through these essays, applicants can demonstrate to admissions officers that they are a suitable fit for the institution and the program. The average length of graduate school essays is 500 words.
Official Transcripts
Your high school transcripts may also be required, along with your formal college transcripts. Your new institution will assess any graduate-level credits you have earned elsewhere in order to determine whether any of them should apply toward your master’s program. Most schools have transfer credit restrictions.
What Can I Do With an Online Master’s in Education Degree?
Career Outlook
A career counselor, education program director, training and development expert, high school principal, and school superintendent are just a few of the positions that a student with an online education masters can prepare them for. Payscale data from March 2022 shows that salaries range from a median of $58,120 for a career counselor to an average of $123,570 for a school superintendent.
Career counselors and training and development professionals are expected to have an 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Over the same time period, an 8% rise in job opportunities is predicted for principals of elementary, middle, and high schools.
Individuals with a master’s in education typically work in elementary and secondary schools or colleges, universities, and professional schools.
Career Paths
Career Counselor
People who need help choosing a vocation might turn to career counselors. These experts frequently work in colleges and high schools. They assist students in examining their strengths and shortcomings in order to identify potential career paths.
$58,120 is the median annual salary.
Education Program Director
Directors of education programs assist in creating curricula for each grade level. They choose the supporting materials for the curricula and train teachers to implement them in the classroom. Throughout the academic year, these experts consult with instructors to determine whether adjustments are necessary.
In March 2022, the average annual salary was $62,680.
Training and Development Specialist
Professional, scientific, and technical services, healthcare, educational services, and finance are common industries where training and development professionals operate. Surveys and staff interviews are used to identify the training requirements, and then course materials are developed to deliver that training. Then, employees that require it are trained by training and development specialists.
$62,700 is the median annual salary.
High School Principal
Principals of high schools oversee the work of the faculty, administrative personnel, and students. They manage scheduling, uphold curriculum standards, and assess teachers’ effectiveness. They also meet with misbehaving students, offer advice, and assign punishment. Additionally, principals meet with parents to talk about their kids’ behavior. Remember that principals of schools are required to obtain a specific certification.
$98,490 is the median annual salary.
School Superintendent
The school board is reported to by the superintendent, who oversees the educational system. They choose when to penalize staff members and appoint principals. These individuals have the power to dismiss teachers and assemble the district’s annual budget. Even during the summer, school administrators are accustomed to working full-time. Keep in mind that superintendents require unique certification.
$123,570 in average annual salary as of March 2022.
Continuing Education
A doctorate in education, a doctorate in special education, a doctorate in educational administration, a doctorate in higher education, or a doctorate in educational leadership may be pursued after earning a master’s degree in education. Graduates with a doctorate in education may be able to work in the field of education administration.
Graduates of doctoral programs in education may be eligible for positions as college presidents, chief learning officers, provosts, superintendents of schools, or principals. Academic dean, professor, and executive director of education are other professions that frequently need for advanced degrees.
How Do I Choose an Online Education Masters Program?
Cost
The average cost of graduate tuition and fees for public schools for the 2019–20 academic year was $12,410, while it was $26,597 for private schools, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). The actual tuition varies depending on the school. Cost of programs is also impacted by credits needed. While some online programs may be less expensive, be sure to factor in the full cost of the program, which includes the cost of accommodation and lost wages.
Program Format
Check to check if a program offers synchronous or asynchronous classes before submitting an application. You must log in at particular times for lectures or other activities in synchronous classrooms. Students who take asynchronous courses can work at their own pace. A part-time program may be the best option for you if you want to continue working while in school.
Location
You should think about the commuting time required to attend on-campus classes while selecting whether to attend college online or on campus. If you seek an online master’s in education, location might not matter. Ask if your intended program is 100% online because some online programs have in-person requirements.
Accreditation
A school’s accreditation serves as proof that it adheres to particular academic criteria. The schools with the best reputations are regionally accredited. Regionally approved schools’ credits are more easily transferable to other universities.
Student Support
When selecting a school, take into account the accessibility of student support services as well. For their remote students, many schools offer online student services. Tutoring, mentoring, career services, internship placement, academic counseling, alumni networking events, and disability services are just a few examples of the services available to students.
How We Rank Schools
A college education is one of the most significant expenditures you can make, according to Onlinestudyingservices. By providing honest, inclusive, and pertinent school rankings, we hope to assist you in navigating the college selection process.
We base our rankings on a few guiding principles and make use of the most recent statistical information from reliable sources.
#1
Johns Hopkins University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Baltimore, Maryland |
| Admission Rate | 11% |
| Graduation Rate | 93% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 46% |
Hybrid
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,300
Out of State | $1,300
Credits to Graduate
33-36
Students examine educational policies and their consequences on inequities in the master of science in education – education policy program at Johns Hopkins. Students start in the summer and can study for one or two years. Students are required to spend a full week in Washington, D.C.
The master’s in education program at John Hopkins consists of 11–12 courses, including a capstone and an elective internship. Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree and have a minimum GPA of 3.0. Students seeking degrees who have not taken Introduction to Statistics must sign up for it first.
#2
University of Southern California
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Los Angeles, California |
| Admission Rate | 11% |
| Graduation Rate | 92% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 17% |
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $2,035
Out of State | $2,035
Credits to Graduate
30
Graduates of USC’s master of education in learning design and technology program are prepared for work as corporate trainers, instructional designers, or curriculum designers. Each term, students sign up for 2 to 3 courses. Larners participate in two-hour online classes twice a week.
Courses in media creation, learning and motivation, and research design are all part of this online master’s in education. With a capstone project that emphasizes application, students complete the curriculum. The university evaluates applicants based on their academic background, professional experience, and personal accomplishment.
#3
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Chapel Hill, North Carolina |
| Admission Rate | 23% |
| Graduation Rate | 91% |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 12% |
Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $540
Out of State | $1,400
Credits to Graduate
33-36
For seasoned educators, Carolina University provides a master’s in education with a focus on early childhood intervention and family assistance. There are tracks available in this two-year curriculum for both licensed and unlicensed teachers. Teachers without licenses must complete nine more credits.
Along with an internship, the courses include advanced emerging literacy and the biological foundations of children’s development. For this master’s program in education, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree with a 2.7 GPA or higher, if they are licensed. Unlicensed candidates must have a minimum GPA of 2.75 and two years of relevant experience.
#4
Northcentral University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | La Jolla, California |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation | Yes |
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $750
Out of State | $750
Credits to Graduate
30
Every Monday, new students can start the master of education in educational leadership program at NCU. Ten courses are needed for this online master’s degree in teaching, including courses on school safety, school legislation, and technology. Eight weeks are spent on each subject, and a capstone project brings the program to a close.
Graduates can apply for positions as distant learning coordinators or as education administrators at all levels. Each course is instructed by NCU academics using the institution’s unique one-to-one learning style. Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree from a university with regional or national accreditation.
#5
Northeastern University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Boston, Massachusetts |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 52% |
100% Online | Course Format (i.e., Self-Paced Classes or Scheduled Classes)
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $646
Out of State | $646
Credits to Graduate
45
Higher education administration, learning and teaching, special education, and learning experience design and technology are the four master’s degrees in education offered by Northeastern. The program for higher education lasts one to two years. The other three degrees take 1.5–2 years to complete. An active, project-based learning philosophy guides coursework.
Every M.Ed. student creates an electronic portfolio in which they combine their academic work with their professional lives. These portfolios serve as proof of graduates’ individual brands whenever they start looking for jobs. Candidates can choose from four start dates for their program.
#6
Boston University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Boston, Massachusetts |
| Admission Rate | 19% |
| Graduation Rate | 88% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 10% |
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $888
Out of State | $888
Credits to Graduate
36
The curriculum and teaching online master’s degree program at BU gives working teachers the tools they need to help students in the classroom. Candidates for degrees can select among tracks with specialized curriculum in special education, science education, math education, and primary education.
Asynchronous courses and flexible live sessions make up this curriculum. Students at BU can start their online master’s in education program in the spring, summer, or fall. Every seven weeks, the deadline for applications changes. Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree or be on track to do so.
#7
University of Central Florida
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Orlando, Florida |
| Admission Rate | 44% |
| Graduation Rate | 72% |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 59% |
100% Online | Course Format (i.e., Self-Paced Classes or Scheduled Classes)
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $327
Out of State | $1,152
Credits to Graduate
30
For instructors with certification or one or more years of experience, UCF offers a master’s degree in elementary education. One of four tracks—reading, ESOL, gifted education, or exceptional education—can be selected by students seeking this master’s degree in education to achieve endorsement or specialization.
A career in teacher coaching or educational consulting may result from this curriculum. Applicants speak with an enrollment coach to start the admissions process. A candidate’s coach and they together develop an admissions strategy
#8
Gratz College
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Melrose Park, Pennsylvania |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 73% |
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $450
Out of State | $450
Credits to Graduate
30
The master of education program at Gratz College prepares working educators to think critically and broadly about teaching and learning. This curriculum focuses on the potential for influence, inclusivity, and social action that education may have. It is inspired by the tikkun olam philosophy of healing the world.
Courses cover topics including teaching the complete child and teaching via movement. There are eight weeks in each course. Jewish instructional education is a specialization available to students pursuing Gratz’s online master’s in education. A CV and transcripts should be sent by applicants. Gratz continues to have an open admissions policy.
#9
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Champaign, Illinois |
| Admission Rate | 59% |
| Graduation Rate | 85% |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 39% |
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $490
Out of State | $490
Credits to Graduate
32
Graduate students in education at the University of Illinois have the option of pursuing a master’s in global studies in education or a master’s in learning design and leadership. Students who achieve their first degree are prepared to use new media technology to design engaging learning environments. The second curriculum emphasizes global education from the perspectives of social justice and critical democracy.
Research on global education, human rights, and education are topics covered in global studies courses. Students studying learning design and leadership also take a course on human development and education technology. A minimum 3.0 GPA and three reference letters are requirements for applicants.
#10
University of San Diego
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | San Diego, California |
| Admission Rate | 49% |
| Graduation Rate | 81% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 8% |
100% Online | Course Format (i.e., Self-Paced Classes or Scheduled Classes)
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $880
Out of State | $880
Credits to Graduate
30
Developing 21st-century skills is emphasized in USD’s online master of education program along with equity and social justice. Core courses including social justice, educational equity, and cognition and learning are required of students enrolled in USD’s online master’s in education program. Six areas of expertise are also offered by the institution.
A minimum GPA of 2.75 and a bachelor’s degree are requirements for applicants. Candidates for degrees must have two years of teaching experience in a K–12 setting, and the university invites applications from a variety of educational settings.
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