The best 1 year online master’s in Education programs offer flexible degrees to help working professionals advance their careers. Many educators are interested in an affordable online master’s in Education, especially to pursue advanced licensure in their state.
A master’s degree can help teachers and educators advance in their careers while also providing them with the information necessary to remain competent classroom leaders. Whether you’re a seasoned educator looking to enhance your skills or simply passionate about entering the field of Education, Fast Online Masters can help you navigate your options for pursuing a master’s in Education online. In this article, you’ll learn what to expect from an online master’s in education degree to help you make an informed decision on your educational journey.
Featured Schools
Methodology for Ranking Online Master’s in Education
Over 100 schools were initially considered for this ranking and were narrowed down to 15 schools following extensive research. Our analysts began by creating a list of schools with accelerated online master’s degrees in Education. We used data from the National Center for Education Statistics, College Navigator, and each school’s website. Then, they gathered information regarding tuition, accreditation, support services, and degree completion times.
Finally, our analytics team applied a ranking methodology. To rank the programs, we scored the schools based on specific criteria. We used the school’s in-state graduate tuition, the duration of the program, school accreditation, and the presence of an online student support network or services. If any information didn’t fit the scoring parameters, zero points were awarded for that category. In the case of a tie, the school with the lower tuition pulled the higher rank.
Time to Completion
- 25-36 Months: 1 point
- 19-24 Months: 2 points
- 13-18 Months: 3 points
- =/<12 Months: 4 points
Graduate Tuition
- =/< $25,000: 1 point
- =/< $20,000: 2 points
- =/< $15,000: 3 points
- =/< $10,000: 4 points
Accreditation
- Institutional: 1 point
- Program: 1 points
- Online Support: 1 point
For this ranking, Fast Online Masters spent 60 hours of research and looked at 111 colleges and universities to compile the Best Online Master’s in Education Programs ranking. More information on data accuracy and how we develop our rankings is on the Fast Online Masters Methodology page.
Our editors first reviewed the online master’s in Education programs in December 2020. This ranking was last updated in November 2023.
Best 15 Online Master’s in Education Programs
Educators understand the advantages of online Education. Not only are online degree programs the same as traditional programs, but they are also flexible in a way that campus courses simply cannot be. Accelerated graduate programs, for instance, do quite well online. Professionals can move through the curriculum and complete their degree in half the time it would take on campus. The final schools listed below, were ranked according to their in-state graduate tuition rates.
15. Pittsburg State University
- Location: Pittsburg, KS
- Degree: Master of Arts in Teaching Secondary Education
- Time to Complete: 12 months
- Credits: 36
- Tuition: $393 per credit, $14,148 total
- School Accreditation: the Higher Learning Commission
- More information: on the Pittsburg State University master’s in education programs.
This online teaching graduate education program at Pittsburg State University is for elementary and secondary teachers. The 36 credit program is entirely online and prepares degree candidates for a Kansas teaching license in a content area.
14. Fordham University
- Location: Bronx, New York
- Degree: Online Master of Science in Teaching (MST)
- Time to Complete: 12 months
- Credits: 36 to 45
- Tuition: $1,500 per credit, $54,000 to $67,000 total
- School Accreditation: Middle States Association of the Commission of Higher Education
- More Information: on the Fordham master’s in education programs
The online Master of Science in Teaching (MST) program at Fordham University offers five different tracks. Both the Early Childhood Education and Childhood Education tracks are 36 credits. While the Early Childhood & Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education tracks require 45 credits.
13. Old Dominion University
- Location: Norfolk, Virginia
- Degree: Online Master of Science in Education
- Time to Complete: 12 months
- Credits: 41 quarter credits
- Tuition: $599 per credit, $24,559 total
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- More Information: on the ODU master’s in education programs.
The Master of Science in Education at Old Dominion is for students with a non-teaching bachelor’s degree who want to be teachers. Graduates qualify for a Virginia teaching license with an endorsement in PreK-6 through ODU. The curriculum includes Advanced Classroom Management & Practicum and also the Teacher Candidate Internship.
12. Colorado State University
- Location: Fort Collins, Colorado
- Degree: Online MEd and Teacher Licensure (Hybrid)
- Time to Complete: 12 months
- Credits: 41 quarter credits
- Tuition: $650 per credit, $26,650 total
- School Accreditation: the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- More Information: on the CSU master’s in education programs
The Master of Education in Education and Human Resource Studies at Colorado State University is an intensive program that prepares graduates for teacher licensure in Colorado. Students who start in the summer term can complete the degree in as little as 12 months.
11. North Carolina State University
- Location: Raleigh, North Carolina
- Degree: Online Master of Science in Education
- Time to Complete: 12 months
- Credits: 30
- Tuition: $525.50 per credit, $15,765 total
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- More Information: on the NCSU master’s in education programs
The Master of Science in Education at NC State University is for licensed teachers. Its focuses is on leadership and instructional practices for elementary mathematics education or elementary science education. Graduation requirements consists of a total of 30 credit hours.
10. Walden University
- Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Degree: online Master of Science in Education (Accelerated)
- Time to Complete: 12 months
- Credits: 30
- Tuition: $630 per credit, $18,900 total
- School Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Program Accreditation: National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education
- More Information: on Walden University master’s in education programs
Graduate students at Walden University can earn a 12-month affordable online Master’s in Education degree with six different specializations. Concentrations include Special Education, Elementary Reading and Mathematics, and also Integrating Technology in the Classroom. Additionally, Walden’s education program is completely online through asynchronous and synchronous courses. Education students take courses two at a time, enabling them to finish their degree in just one year.
Graduate school students can expect to complete 30 credit hours of coursework, a research project, and also comprehensive written and oral exams. Sample courses include Curriculum Design for Learning, Educational Technology, Enhancing Learning for Diverse Populations, and also Creating an Effective Classroom Learning Environment. Financial Aid is available for students upon request.
9. University of Texas of the Permian Basin
- Location: Odessa, Texas
- Degree: Online Master of Education (MEd)
- Time to Complete: 12 months
- Credits: 30
- Tuition: $458.33 per credit, $13,739 total
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Program Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation and the Educational Leadership Constituent Council.
- More Information: on the UT Permian Basin master’s in education programs
The University of Texas of the Permian Basin offers a one year Master’s in Education online degree. This program provides a great deal of flexibility since graduate students can choose from six start dates a year. Additionally, coursework is online with mostly asynchronous courses and in a seven-week format. So its possible to complete all of the requirements for this 30 credit degree in one year.
Graduation requirements include coursework, a student teaching practicum in their community, and also a comprehensive exam. Sample courses include School Human Resources Management, Instructional Leadership Development, Educational Technology, and also Research Design in Education and the Social Sciences. Additionally, Financial Aid applications are available for students upon request.
8. Indiana State University
- Location: Terre Haute, Indiana
- Degree: online MEd in School Administration and Supervision
- Time to Complete: 18 months
- Credits: 33
- Tuition: $450 per credit, $14,850 total
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Program Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
- More Information on Indiana State University master’s in education programs
The Master’s in Education at Indiana State University is for professionals who work as either elementary or early childhood teachers. Students interested in earning primary or advanced licensure must research their state’s requirements for appropriate educational experiences because this degree may not fulfill them. The online version of this program is also a general degree. However, the concentrations associated with this degree are only available on campus.
Graduate students can complete this 100 percent online program in as little as 18 months with full-time study. Students who study part-time can take up to seven years to meet all requirements. Degree requirements include 33 credit hours of coursework, a bachelor’s degree, national board certification, and also comprehensive written and oral exams. Sample courses include The History of American Education, Development Through the Lifespan, and also Philosophy of Education. Financial Aid is available for students upon request.
7. Capella University
- Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Degree: Online Accelerated Master of Science in Education
- Time to Complete: 12 months
- Credits: 46 total quarter credits
- Tuition: $470 per credit, $21,620 total
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Program Accreditation: National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education
- More information on Capella University master’s in education
Students at Capella University can enroll in a 12 month Master of Science in Education. Its ten concentrations include Leadership in Educational Administration, Training & Performance Improvement, and also English Language Learning & Teaching.
Additionally, this program can be accelerated by utilizing certain professional development courses, all provided as free electives in the curriculum plan. Utilizing FlexPath courses and short-term courses, students can complete this graduate degree in just one year. Like many education graduate degrees, this program requires an internship. However, students can complete it in their home community. Other requirements include 46 quarter credit hours, a capstone project, and also a comprehensive exam. Sample courses include Funding of Educational Institutions, Online School Leadership: Data, Decision-Making and School Improvement, and also K-12 Principalship. Applications for Financial Aid are available for students upon request.
6. University of North Texas
- Location: Denton, Texas
- Degree: online Master of Education in Educational Leadership
- Time to Complete: 12 months
- Credits: 30
- Tuition: $467 per credit, $14,000 total
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Program Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
- More information on the University of North Texas master’s in education programs
The University of North Texas offers students the chance to earn Texas Principal Certification through its one year online master’s in Education program. This degree is for educators who want to advance their careers. It is primarily concerned with preparing professionals who are seeking Texas principal certification.
This degree is 100 percent available online and on eight-week term schedules. There are also five start dates every year so students can start their Education whenever they are ready. Students can expect to complete 30 credit hours of coursework, an internship, a research paper, and also comprehensive written and oral exams. Sample courses include School Leadership and Administration, Current Issues in Education, and also Assuming the Principal Role.
5. University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley
- Location: Edinburg, Texas
- Degree: Online Master of Education in Educational Leadership
- Time to Complete: 10 months
- Credits: 30
- Tuition: $458.33 per credit, $13,750 total
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- More Information: on UT Rio Grande Valley master’s in Education programs
Working professionals can enroll in an accelerated online master’s in Education degree at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. There are several options, including the Master of Education in Special Education, the Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, and also the Master of Education in Educational Leadership. These graduate programs are for professionals with a primary license to teach in Texas and at least two years of work experience.
The education programs are all available 100 percent online with asynchronous courses in an eight-week term format. Students may complete practicums and internships in their community. However, all work experiences must take place within the state. Students can expect differences regarding curriculum choices depending on what degree they choose to pursue. Still, all education programs require 30 credit hours of coursework, one practicum or internship, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written and oral exam. Sample courses include Administration of Human Resources and Budgeting, Curriculum Leadership for School Improvement, and also School-Community Relations. Additionally, financial Aid is available for students upon request.
4. Anderson University
- Location: Anderson, South Carolina
- Degree: online Master of Education (MEd)
- Time to Complete: 12 to 18 Months
- Credits: 33
- Tuition: $430 per credit, $14,190 total
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- More information at Anderson University
An accelerated master’s online education degree at Anderson University takes over a year. Educators who already hold primary teaching licensure will find that this research-based and applied practice degree will help them advance in their careers, especially as they progress through the curriculum.
This degree is conferred 100 percent online through asynchronous and synchronous courses delivered in an eight-week term format. The program focuses mainly on public schools and how community and personal development can impact learners. So, it is an excellent choice for professionals who wish to continue teaching in their current position. Students can expect to complete 33 credit hours of coursework, a research project, and comprehensive written and oral exams. However, this program will not lead to advanced licensure. Sample courses include Principles of Curriculum Development, Current Issues in Public School Education, and Assessment Data to Inform Instruction. Financial Aid is available for students upon request.
3. Sam Houston State University
- Location: Huntsville, Texas
- Degree: Online Master of Education
- Time to Complete: 18 months
- Credits: 30
- Tuition: $414 per credit, $12,420 total
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- More information on Sam Houston State University
The affordable accelerated online master’s in Education at Sam Houston State University is perfect for students who are preparing to take on mid-level leadership positions in educational work settings. Students will find that this 100 percent online program is as an asynchronous course of study that follows the traditional academic term schedule. And it is possible to complete this degree in as little as 18 months.
This program does not lead to advanced licensure. So interested students may want to look elsewhere for their licensure goals. This degree does require a practicum and students must be able to acquire this work experience in their own community. Students complete 30 credit hours of coursework, a thesis or a practicum, and also comprehensive written and oral exams. Sample courses include Student Services in Higher Education, Resource Development and Allocation in Higher Education, and also the History and Organization of Higher Education.
2. Western Governors University
- Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
- Degree: Online Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction
- Time to Complete: 12 months
- Credits: 33
- Tuition: $279 per credit or $8,350 total (2 terms)
- School Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- More Information on Western Governors University.
Western Governors University provides students with the chance to earn an online accelerated master’s in education, which focuses on curriculum and instruction. There is also the possibility of earning a Master of Arts in English Language Learning in PreK-12 and Master of Arts in Teaching English for Grades 5-12 as accelerated online programs.
Students will find that the curriculum helps educators prepare for advanced roles in their careers, enabling them to move forward towards advanced licensure or an administrative position with little to no interruption to their current career. This is a 100 percent online program that utilizes both asynchronous and synchronous courses in eight-week and 10-week formats. Students can comfortably finish all the requirements in less than 18 months of full-time study. This degree requires 33 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and also comprehensive written and oral exams. Sample courses include Curriculum Design and Instruction for Educators, Current Issues in the Public School System, and Analyzing and also Implementing New School Programs.
1. Southeastern Oklahoma State University
- Location: Durant, Oklahoma
- Degree: Online Master of Education in Educational Leadership
- Time to Complete: 12 months
- Credits: 30
- Tuition: $347 per credit hour, $10,410 total
- School Accreditation: the Higher Learning Commission
- Program Accreditation: Commission of the Office of Educational Quality and Accountability (OEQA)
- More information: visit Southeastern Oklahoma State University
The 12 month online master’s degree at Southeastern Oklahoma State University is affordable and accelerated master’s in Education. This education degree program is for education professionals, regardless of whether they hold primary teaching licensure, prepares them for administrative or leadership roles in the education sector.
This degree does not lead to any type of certification in the state of Oklahoma. However, online students will find a curriculum that focuses on public schools and the school system in America, including courses dedicated to administration and leadership. All courses are available online and asynchronously in an eight-week term schedule. So students can finish the degree in one year with part-time study. Students must complete 30 credit hours of coursework and also comprehensive written and oral exams. Sample courses include School and Community Relations, Fundamentals of Curriculum Development, and also School Counseling Orientation and Ethical Practice.
What are the Different Master’s Degrees in Education and Teaching?
MAT
A Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree focuses on training educators in specific subject areas or grade levels, and typically leads to initial teaching certification. An example is an online MAT in Secondary Education.
MEd
The Master of Education (MEd) degree is for practicing teachers looking to advance their knowledge and skills in a particular area of education, and may not necessarily lead to certification.
MEd-CI
The Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction focuses on developing teachers understanding of curriculum design and instructional strategies.
MEd-EL
The Master of Education in Educational Leadership prepares educators for leadership roles in schools and educational organizations.
MEd-SPED
The Master of Education in Special Education (MEd-SPED) prepares educators to work with students with special needs.
MEd-RL
The Master of Education in Reading and Literacy (MEd-RL) develops educator skills and knowledge in teaching reading.
MAEd
A Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) degree combines education coursework with a subject-specific area of study, such as mathematics or literature.
MSEd
Master of Science in Education (MSEd) is similar to the MEd, this degree focuses on a specific area of education, but may have a stronger emphasis on research and data analysis.
MS LT
A Master of Science in Learning Technologies is designed to enhance professional skills in the creation, improvement, implementation, and evaluation of technology and media-supported learning opportunities and environments.
How Much is an Online Master’s Degree in Education?
The cost of an online master’s degree in education can vary greatly depending on the institution and program. On average, tuition for an online master’s in education can range from $10,000 to $30,000 per year. However, there are some graduate degree programs that can cost upwards of $50,000 per year. The total cost will also depend on the length of the program and any additional fees, such as technology or application fees.
It is important to research and compare different programs to find one that fits your budget and offers the best value for your investment. Additionally, some private employers may offer tuition assistance or reimbursement for employees pursuing a master’s degree in education. And teachers employed by public schools typically qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness programs after teaching for ten years.
What is the Importance of Accreditation for an Online Master’s Degree in Education?
Accreditation is a process of evaluating the quality and standards of a higher education institution or program. For an online master’s degree in education, accreditation is crucial as it validates the quality and credibility of the program, ensuring that it meets industry standards and prepares students for the field of education. Below are some of the key reasons why accreditation is important for an online master’s degree in education.
- Quality Assurance: Accreditation serves as a stamp of approval from an external organization that the program meets certain academic standards and offers quality education. This reassures students that the online master’s degree in education is recognized and respected by employers.
- Recognition by Employers: Accreditation adds value to your degree and makes it more marketable to potential employers. It assures employers that you have received a quality education and have the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the education field.
- Transferability of Credits: Accreditation also ensures that the credits earned in an online master’s degree program are transferable to other accredited institutions. This can be beneficial if you decide to pursue further education or if you need to transfer to a different university.
- Federal Financial Aid: Accreditation is a requirement for students to be eligible for federal financial aid, including grants, loans, and scholarships.
Teacher Accreditation Organizations and Resources:
- Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
- The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS)
- National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC)
What are the Admissions Requirements for Master’s in Education Degree?
The admissions requirements for a master’s in Education degree vary depending on the school and program. But most schools have similar requirements. Below are some common admissions requirements for a master’s in Education program.
- Undergraduate Degree: Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in education or a related field.
- Transcripts: Provide official transcripts with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Letters of Recommendation: Submit 2 to 3 letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or other professionals.
- Resume: Summary of past employment and educational experiences.
- Personal Statement: A personal statement, statement of purpose, or essay explaining interests and career goals.
- Test Scores: Some schools require standardized tests scores from the GRE or GMAT.
- Some schools require applicants to have a teaching license.
What Do You Learn in Online Master’s in Education Programs?
Each online master’s in education program will have its own unique curriculum, but there are some common courses that many programs offer. These core courses are designed to provide students with a solid foundation in education theory and practice. Students also take elective classes and a capstone project. Below are some of the common classes students take.
- Educational Research and Evaluation
- Curriculum Design and Instruction
- Educational Leadership and Administration
- Diversity and Cultural Competence in Education
- Educational Technology and Digital Learning
- Education Policy and Advocacy
What are Career Options with an Online Master’s in Education Degree?
There are a variety of career options available to a student who earns an online master’s degree in Education.
| Occupation | Job Summary |
|---|---|
| Adult Education Teacher (BLS) | Adult Basic and Secondary Education Teachers instruct adults in fundamental skills, such as reading. They also help students earn their high school equivalency credential. Basic Education Teacher. |
| ESL Teacher (BLS) | English as a Second Language teachers (ESL teachers) instruct in reading and speaking English. |
| Postsecondary Teacher (BLS) | Postsecondary Teachers instruct students beyond the high school level. |
| School Principal (BLS) | School Principals oversee all school operations, including daily school activities. Elementary School Principals, Middle School Principals, and High School Principals. |
| High School Teacher (BLS) | High school teachers teach academic lessons and various skills that students will need to attend college and to enter the job market. Also a Secondary Education Teacher. |
| Instructional Coordinator (BLS) | Instructional Coordinators oversee school curriculums and teaching standards. An Instructional Designer develops instructional material, implements it, and assess its effectiveness. Curriculum Developer, Curriculum Developers |
| Elementary School Teacher (BLS) | Kindergarten and elementary school teachers instruct young students in basic subjects in order to prepare them for future schooling. Also Elementary Education Teacher, Elementary Education Teachers. |
| Middle School Teacher (BLS) | Middle school teachers educate students, typically in sixth through eighth grades. |
| School Administrator | School Administrators develop and implement school policies and procedures to ensure the smooth operation of the school. |
| Program Director | Program Directors work in roles like Director of Professional Development Programs. |
| Admissions Advisor | Admissions Advisors work in colleges and some are called Director of Admissions or Dean of Students. |
| Special Education Teacher (BLS) | Special Education Teachers work with students who have a wide range of learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities. |
How Much Can You Earn with a Master’s in Education?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the current salary for a professional in education ranges from $45,000 to $105,000. This includes professionals who work in PreK-12 and higher education institutions, private schools, public schools, and also as professional development instructors. It also includes educators, administrators, principals, counselors, and also instructional designers.
Is it worth it to get a masters as a teacher? Yes. Advanced degrees typically lead to higher salaries. However, salaries are also affected by work experience, certifications and endorsements, and also geographic location.
| Occupation | Salary |
|---|---|
| Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers (BLS) | $58,590 |
| Career and Technical Education Teachers (BLS) | $61,450 |
| Postsecondary Teachers (BLS) | $80,840 |
| Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals (BLS) | $101,320 |
| High School Teachers (BLS) | $62,360 |
| Instructional Coordinators (BLS) | $66,490 |
| Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers (BLS) | $61,620 |
| Middle School Teachers (BLS) | $61,810 |
| Special Education Teachers (BLS) | $62,950 |
What are the Various Disciplines of Education?
Education encompasses nearly every discipline a person can think of because every discipline is taught by a teacher. From social studies to nursing to engineering to math, every discipline in every sector is first introduced to a professional through education. When viewed in this light, it can be difficult to explain the variety of disciplines that play a role in the field.
However, in the field of education, some disciplines play a significant role in a professional’s day-to-day responsibilities. This can include law, regulation, administration, management, leadership, human resources, communication, technology, curriculum, and also instruction.
Is a Teaching Licensure Necessary for Online Graduate Degrees in Education?
Well, the answer depends on the actual degree program. Many schools do require a license to teach in a student’s home state if the program is dedicated to early childhood or secondary education. However, other schools that offer programs in Educational Leadership or Curriculum and Instruction may not require licensure.
As a rule, schools that offer the chance to earn advanced licensure through the program will require primary teaching licensures from their applicants. This is mandatory to be approved to enter the program. Students should note it is not possible to bypass primary certification to earn advanced certification in any state in the country.
However, education students who wish to become administrators or hold senior-level positions within an educational institution setting do not have to be licensed as teachers. This is because their primary tasks are administrative and not education; teachers who work with students every day must be licensed, but there is no such requirement for principals or administrators.
Is an Online Master’s In Education Worth It?
Are 1 year masters programs worth it? Yes. Education continues to be one of the single most significant factors in social mobility in America. It should come as no surprise, then, that so many schools, colleges, and universities would require educators to have the best education possible in order to teach others.
For ambitious professionals, an accelerated online master’s in Education can provide them with both career advancement, as well as an education that will help them be a shining example to their own students.
References:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/home.htm
- https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service
