The most affordable online Master’s in Educational Technology degrees offer a flexible path to earn an advanced degree while you work. Few people know what an accelerated online Master’s in Educational Technology degree is, but for those that do, the fact that these degrees are increasingly available online is a move in the right direction.
These programs are built to help not just students in public and private schools across the country, but corporate clients who are in need of additional training. And as the internet continues to grow into a mainstream tool within education, having professionals who are trained in the art of educational technology available in different sections makes perfect sense.
Graduate degrees are often earned by professionals who are already working in the field. This means that online students need low-residency or 100 percent online programs that don’t require them to attend campus. They also need programs that feature flexible curricula, such as Fast Track options, that can be molded to their career needs. And with the growing number of affordable and accelerated online educational technology master’s degrees that can be earned in less two years, we felt it was important to build a ranking that could point professionals in the right direction.
Methodology
Time to Completion
- Less Than 2 Years: 1 point
- Less Than 18 Months: 2 points
- Less Than 1 Year: 3 points
Graduate Tuition
- Less Than $20,000: 1 point
- Less Than $15,000: 2 points
- Less Than $10,000: 3 points
- Less Than $5,000: 4 points
Accreditation (School-Wide and Program-Specific) – 1 point per item
Presence of an Online Student Support Network– 1 point
To develop this ranking of the top most affordable and accelerated online master of educational technology degrees, our editors began with an initial pool of 91 schools. To narrow the pool, we applied a completion time filter, eliminating any program that took two years or more to complete. We then applied the rating and ranking methodology above, using graduate tuition to break any ties. The result was the following ranking of the 25 best affordable and accelerated online educational technology master’s degrees.
Types of Accelerated Online Master’s in Educational Technology Degrees
The following types of accelerated online educational technology master’s programs are featured in our ranking:
- Online Master of Arts (MA) in Educational Technology
- Online Master of Science (MS) in Educational Technology
- Online Master of Science (MS) in Education: Learning Design and Technology
- Online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Technology Management
- Online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Curriculum & Instruction: Instructional Technology
- Online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Curriculum & Instruction: Educational Technology & Online Learning
- Online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Learning Design and Technology
- Online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Technology Leadership
- Online Master’s in Instructional Design & Learning Technology
- Online Master of Arts (MA) in Technology, Innovation, and Pedagogy
- Online Master of Science (MS) in Learning Technologies
- Online Master of Science (MS) in Instructional Technology
Ranking Low-Cost Accelerated Master’s in Educational Technology
#25—Lindenwood University
St. Charles, Missouri
Online MA in Educational Technology
Minimum Time to Completion: Less Than 2 Years
Points: 4
The online master of arts in educational technology program from Lindenwood University is an accelerated option that allows online students to complete their degree in less than two years. The curriculum for the program is comprised of 33 credit hours of coursework, including core courses such as Conceptualization of Education and Innovation Mindset. Students will also take major-specific classes like:
- Transforming Learning with Technology
- Ethics and Issues in Educational Technology
- Multimedia Applications
- educational technology online master’s
An educational technology seminar and project are also required for program completion. Lindenwood is institutionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the best in the country for online graduate programs in the field of education.
Graduate Tuition: $18,000 (Financial aid is available if needed)
#24—University of Virginia
Charlottesville, Virginia
Online M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction: Instructional Technology
Minimum Time to Completion: 1 Year
Points: 5
The highly regarded accelerated online master’s in educational technology from the University of Virginia is a Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction with an emphasis in Instructional Technology. The program is offered on both a part-time and full-time basis, and full-time online students can complete the program within just one year. The curriculum for the program features core courses in curriculum and instruction, including titles like:
Differentiating Instruction
Principles of Curriculum Design
Assessment of Curriculum K-12
Students will also take classes in the Instructional Technology Specialization such as:
- Performance Improvement
- Multimedia Learning
- Computer Coursework Tools
- educational technology online master’s
- educational technologists
- instructional designers
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has accredited the University of Virginia to award this online master’s in ed tech. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the 15 best colleges and universities in the nation for online graduate programs in education.
Graduate Tuition: $16,578 (Financial aid is available if needed)
#23—Franklin University
Columbus, Ohio
Online Master’s in Instructional Design & Learning Technology
Minimum Time to Completion: 16 Months
Points: 5
Students enrolled in the accelerated online master of educational technology program from Franklin University can expect professional growth and to earn their advanced credentials in the field within just 16 months. This degree prepares graduates in Instructional Design & Learning Technology features core courses such as:
- Enhancing Learning With Technology
- Advanced Instructional Design and Performance Technology
- Learning Management Systems
- Foundations of Instructional Design
- educational technology online master’s
- educational technologists
A capstone course is also required for successful program completion. The Higher Learning Commission has granted Franklin University full regional accreditation to offer this online educational technology master’s credential.
Graduate Tuition: $16,080 (Financial aid is available if needed)
#22—MidAmerica Nazarene University
Olathe, Kansas
Online MS in Educational Technology
Minimum Time to Completion: 18 Months
Points: 5
The accelerated online master’s degree in educational technology offering from MidAmerica Nazarene University is a fully online Master of Science option designed to be completed within just 18 months. The curriculum for the program is aligned with standards established by the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). Courses required for the degree include:
- Teaching and Learning with Technology
- Principles of Online Design
- Technology-Enhanced Learning Environments
- Blended Learning
- educational technology online master’s
- educational technologists
- instruction core
The Higher Learning Commission has accredited MNU to confer this online master’s in educational technology. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the top 100 regional universities in the Midwest.
Graduate Tuition: $13,797 (Financial aid is available if needed)
#21—University of South Carolina
Columbia, South Carolina
Online M.Ed. in Learning Design and Technology
Minimum Time to Completion: 21 Months
Points: 5
Offered through the distinguished USC Rossier School of Education, the accelerated online educational technology master’s program from the University of South Carolina is an M.Ed. option in Learning Design and Technology (LDT). The 21-month, fully online program is designed for working professionals and features course titles such as:
- Design of Learning Environments
- Media Selection and Evaluation
- Instructional Design
- instructional designers
USC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to confer the online M.Ed. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the top 25 colleges and universities nationwide for an online master’s in education.
Graduate Tuition: $13,737 (Financial aid is available if needed)
#20—Tiffin University
Tiffin, Ohio
Online M.Ed. in Educational Technology Management
Minimum Time to Completion: 18 Months
Points: 5
The accelerated online ed tech master’s degree from Tiffin University is a Master of Education in Educational Technology Management designed for individuals who desire to take on leadership roles in the field. The 30-credit hour program can be completed entirely online, and students typically fulfill all degree requirements within a year and a half when studying full-time. Part-time students will take an additional year to graduate. The curriculum for the program is broad and encompasses topics such as:
- game-based learning
- multimedia
- learning management systems
- instructional designers
- online learning specialist
The university is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission to award this online graduate degree in education. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Tiffin among the best online graduate schools in the nation for a master’s in educational technology.
Graduate Tuition: $12,600 (Financial aid is available if needed)
#19—University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, Colorado
Online MA in Technology, Innovation, and Pedagogy
Minimum Time to Completion: 20 Months
Points: 5
The accelerated master’s in educational technology online program from the University of Northern Colorado is a MA in Technology, Innovation, and Pedagogy. Designed to be completed in approximately 20 months, the program features areas of emphasis in Innovation & Integration and Instructional Design. Regardless of concentration, enrolled students will take core courses such as:
- Learners and Curriculum in the Digital Age
- Innovative Pedagogy and Assessment
- Instructional Design
- online learning specialist
- instructional technology specialist
A comprehensive exam is also required at the culmination of the program. The Higher Learning Commission has accredited UNC to award this online master of educational technology. The school has also been ranked among the top 40 institutions of higher education for online studies in graduate education by U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $10,867 (Financial aid is available if needed)
#18—University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
Online M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction: Educational Technology
Minimum Time to Completion: Less Than 2 Years
Points: 5
The accelerated online master of educational technology offering from the University of Florida is an M.Ed. program in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Educational Technology. Courses required for the degree include:
- Designing Integrated Media Environments
- Instructional Design
- Distance Teaching and Learning
- instructional technology specialist
- integrate technology
Students may also customize their degree plans through blended learning environments with the selection of elective classes such as:
- Games and Simulations for Teaching and Learning
- Mobile Technologies in Education
- Managing Educational Projects
- educational technologist
A practicum is also required prior to graduation. Ranked the second-best school in the nation for online graduate academic programs, UF holds full institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Graduate Tuition: $10,770 (Financial aid is available if needed)
#17—Azusa Pacific University
Indianapolis, Indiana
Online MA in Educational Technology
Minimum Time to Completion: 12 months
Points: 6
The accelerated online master of educational technology degree program from Azusa Pacific University is designed for experienced teachers who want to advance their careers. The program is cohort-based and features course titles such as:
- Foundations in Educational Technology
- Instructional Design and Development
- Digital Imagery for Learning Environments
- Managing Tech-Supported Curricular Tools
- educational technologist
A practicum experience is required for successful program completion. The WASC Senior College and University Commission has accredited Azusa Pacific to confer this graduate credential in educational technology. The program itself holds special accreditation from the NCATE.
Graduate Tuition: $17,592 (Financial aid is available if needed)
#16—Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, Arizona
Online Master of Education: Educational Technology
Minimum Time to Completion: 1 Year
Points: 6
Northern Arizona University offers an accelerated online master of educational technology program through its College of Education and the Department of Educational Specialties. This affordable and versatile degree plan can be completed in just one year and features three distinct concentrations:
- Adult Learning and Training
- Assistive Technology
- K-12 Teacher
- educational technologist
Core requirements for the program include classes like:
- Instructional Theory and Strategies in Technology Integration
- Distributed Learning Delivery Systems
- Career and Technical Education
The Higher Learning Commission has accredited NAU to confer this educational technology master’s online credential. U.S. News & World Report has recognized the school as one of the best schools for online graduate degrees in education nationwide.
Graduate Tuition: $10,305 (Financial aid is available if needed)
#15—Purdue University
West Lafayette, Indiana
Online MS in Education: Learning Design and Technology
Minimum Time to Completion: 22 months
Points: 6
Students enrolled in the accelerated online master’s in educational technology program from Purdue University can earn their credentials in just 22 months. This MS in Education in Learning Design and Technology is offered completely online with no residency requirements. Core courses required for the degree include:
- Introduction to E-Learning
- Human Performance Technology
- Learning Theory and Instructional Design
- Learning Systems Design
- educational technologist
Students will also take technology-specific classes like:
- Educational Applications of Multimedia
- Computer and Video Game Design for Education
- Integration and Management of Technology for Learning
The Higher Learning Commission has accredited Purdue to confer the ed tech master’s degree online. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the university among the top 30 schools for online graduate degrees in education.
Graduate Tuition: $9,208 (Federal Financial aid is available if needed)
#14—Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Winona, Minnesota
Online Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology
Minimum Time to Completion: 20 Months
Points: 6
The convenient online master’s educational technology offering from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is a 30-credit hour asynchronous program designed to be completed within 20 months of study. Courses required for the credential include titles such as:
- Investigations of Learning and Teaching
- Personalizing Learning with Digital Technology
- Rethinking Education
- The Networked Global Community
No transfer credits are allowed. The Higher Learning Commission has accredited Saint Mary’s of Minnesota to award this online graduate degree in educational technology.
Graduate Tuition: $9,180 (Financial aid is available if needed)
#13—Liberty University
Lynchburg, Virginia
Online M.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction.: Educational Technology and Online Learning
Minimum Time to Completion: 18 Months
Points: 6
The accelerated master’s in educational technology online from Liberty University is designed to be completed in just 18 months. Multiple start dates per year add to the convenience of the program. Once enrolled, students will take core courses such as:
- Technology Practices for Instructional Improvement
- Foundations of Education
- Instructional Methods for Behavior and Learning
- Support student learning
- Instructional strategies
Additional education technology cognate classes are also required, including:
- Trends and Issues in Educational Technology
- Technology & Diversity
- Leadership in Educational Technology
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award the educational technology master’s credential online. The school has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the nation’s best schools for online graduate programs in the field of online education.
Graduate Tuition: $7,980 (Federal Financial aid is available if needed)
#12—University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, Arkansas
Online Education in Educational Technology
Minimum Time to Completion: 18 months
Points: 6
The University of Arkansas offers an accelerated online master of educational technology program that can be completed in just 18 months. This non-thesis offering is comprised of core courses such as:
- Foundations of Educational Technology
- Principles in Visual Literacy
- Teaching with Technology in the K-12 Classroom
- Designing Educational Media
No GRE is required for admission to the program. The Higher Learning Commission has accredited the university to offer this online ed tech degree. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the 50 best in the nation for online master’s degrees in online education.
Graduate Tuition: $7,752
#11—Western Governor’s University
Salt Lake City, Utah
Online Master of Education in Learning and Technology
Minimum Time to Completion: 18 Months
Points: 6
The affordable and accelerated online education technology master’s offering from Western Governor’s University is a M.Ed. program in Learning and Technology that can be completed in just 18 months. The curriculum for the program is mostly prescribed and features courses such as:
- Issues in Technology Integration
- Instructional Design Production
- Foundations of Instructional Design
- Training programs
A capstone course is also required prior to graduation. WGU is fully accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities to award this graduate credential in educational technology online. The school has been recognized as one of the most innovative in the country by U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $7,500
#10—Lamar University
Beaumont, Texas
Online M.Ed. in Educational Technology Leadership (ETL)
Minimum Time to Completion: 18 Months
Points: 6
Lamar University offers its accelerated master’s in educational technology online program through its College of Education and Human Development. This M.Ed. option in Educational Technology Leadership (ETL) is a 36-credit hour program featuring course titles such as:
- Resources for Digital Environments
- Concepts of Educational Technology
- Digital Citizenship
- Disruptive Innovation in Technology
A portfolio and internship are also required prior to graduation. Lamar University is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award the master’s credential in educational technology online. U.S. News & World Report has ranked it among the best colleges and universities in the nation for an online graduate degree in the field of education.
Graduate Tuition: $6,324
#9—Concordia University-Irvine
Irvine, California
Online Master of Arts in Education: Educational Technology
Minimum Time to Completion: 1 Year
Points: 7
Concordia University-Irvine offers an accelerated online master’s educational technology program that can be completed in just one year of full-time study. This MA in Education with an emphasis in Educational Technology is a 20-credit hour offering comprised of core courses like:
- Curriculum Design and Assessment
- Emerging Learning Technologies
- Brain-Based Teaching and Learning
- Leveraging Technology for All Students
- Training programs
The program also features an accelerated track to a second MAEd in Curriculum & Instruction for students willing to commit to five additional months of coursework. The WASC Senior College and University Commission has accredited Concordia-Irvine to award this online credential in educational technology.
Graduate Tuition: $7,953
#8—California State University-Fullerton
Fullerton, California
Online MS in Educational Technology
Minimum Time to Completion: 16 Months
Points: 7
The affordable online master of educational technology offering from California State University-Fullerton is an accelerated cohort-based program designed to be completed within 16 months. The curriculum for the program requires 30 credit hours of coursework and includes three core courses:
- Survey of Educational Leadership
- Learning Theory
- Curriculum and Development
Students will also take classes specific to the field of educational technology, including:
- Web Design for Instruction in Schools
- Multimedia Development and Instruction in the Classroom
- Problem Solving and Technology in Schools
The WASC Senior College and University Commission has accredited Cal State-Fullerton to confer this online graduate degree in educational technology. U.S. News & World Report has lauded the school as one of the 20 best in the nation for virtual studies in the field.
Graduate Tuition: $7,167
#7—University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, Texas
M.Ed. in Educational Technology Online
Minimum Time to Completion: 1 Year
Points: 7
The accelerated online master’s in educational technology program from the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley features optional graduate certificates in E-Learning and Technology Leadership. Required courses for the program include:
- Research Methods in Education
- Instructional Design
- Multimedia/Hypermedia
- Educational Communications
A graduate e-portfolio is also required as a capstone element of the program. UT-Rio Grande Valley is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to confer the graduate degree in ed tech online. U.S. News & World Report has identified the school as one of the top national universities in the United States.
Graduate Tuition: $5,959
#6—University of North Texas
Denton, Texas
Online Master of Science in Learning Technologies
Minimum Time to Completion: 14 Months
Points: 7
The accelerated online master of educational technology program from the University of North Texas is available through the school’s College of Information. The curriculum for the program consists of 36 credit hours of coursework and features nine different areas of emphasis. Students can concentrate their studies in sub-fields such as:
- Career and Technical Education
- Instructional Systems Technology
- Workforce Development
- Project Management
Most of the courses required for the degree are delivered in an eight-week format, enabling students to earn their credentials in just 14 months. UNT holds institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the 20 best in the nation for online master’s in education degrees.
Graduate Tuition: $5,900
#5—Fort Hays State University
Hays, Kansas
Online MS in Instructional Technology
Minimum Time to Completion: 18 Months
Points: 7
The accelerated online master of educational technology program from Fort Hays State University is one of the most affordable offerings in our ranking. Offered through the school’s Department of Advanced Education Programs, the degree plan features course titles such as:
- Instructional Technology Theory and Practice
- Multimedia Applications
- Developing Web-Based Instruction
- Innovative Technology Integration
A comprehensive examination is also required prior to program completion. The Higher Learning Commission has accredited Fort Hays State to award this online educational technology master’s credential. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the top 100 colleges and universities in the country for an online graduate degree in education.
Graduate Tuition: $3,582
#4—University of Louisiana-Monroe
Monroe, Louisiana
Online M.Ed. in Educational Technology Leadership
Minimum Time to Completion: 15 Months
Points: 8
The University of Louisiana-Monroe offers an affordable and highly accelerated online master’s in educational technology program that can be completed in as few as 15 months. The 36-credit hour curriculum for the program features course titles such as:
Design and Development of Multimedia and Interactive Instruction
Social Media Applications
Technology Planning and Administration
Trends in Instructional Technology
As a culminating element of the program, students will create an interactive online portfolio. ULM is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and its teacher preparation programs are separately accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
Graduate Tuition: $6,490
#3—Louisiana State University-Shreveport
Shreveport, Louisiana
Online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction: Education Technology Leader
Minimum Time to Completion: 10 Months
Points: 8
Louisiana State University-Shreveport is home to the most accelerated online master’s in educational technology offering in our ranking. The 30-credit hour program enables students to move through coursework quickly, finishing their entire degree program in just ten months. Once enrolled, students will take foundation courses such as Creating a Professional Learning Community and Design and Development of Multimedia Instructional Units. Specialization classes include:
- Technology Planning and Administration
- Professional Development of K-12 Technology Integration
- Advanced Telecommunications and Distance Learning
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has accredited LSU-Shreveport to confer this online ed tech master’s degree.
Graduate Tuition: $6,196
#2—American College of Education
Indianapolis, Indiana
Master of Education: Educational Technology Online
Minimum Time to Completion: 17 months
Points: 9
The accelerated online master’s in educational technology degree program from the American College of Education is a versatile option that features two “focus of study” options: Educational Technology and Digital Learning and Teaching. Core courses required for the program include:
- Technology Curriculum and Planning
- Practices for Evaluating Technological Resources
- Educational Technology Systems Management
Depending on the area of emphasis they choose, students will also take additional classes such as:
- The Digital Learner
- Design of Learning Environments
- Instructional Models for Digital Learning
ACE is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission to award the online master of educational technology credential. The program itself was the first in the nation to be accredited by the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE).
Graduate Tuition: $4,894
#1—Southeastern Oklahoma State University
Durant, Oklahoma
Online M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction: Educational Technology
Minimum Time to Completion: 1 Year
Points: 9
The online educational technology master’s degree from Southeastern Oklahoma State University is both accelerated and affordable. Full-time students should expect to earn their degree in just one year. The curriculum for the program features core courses in the major area of curriculum and instruction as well as ed tech-specific classes like:
- Learning Technologies to Bridge the Digital Divide
- Digital Storytelling
- Innovative Leadership for Digital Age Environments
The University’s School of Education and Behavioral Sciences is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), and the university holds institutional accreditation from The Higher Learning Commission. Southeastern Oklahoma State has been ranked among the best regional universities in the West by U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $4,716
About the Field of Educational Technology
Educational technology is not a new field. In fact, the discipline has been around since the early 1900s. Since then, it has evolved into one of the largest sub-fields of education and largely emphasizes computer and mobile applications for learning. Educational technology can be applied to many different educational environments, including early learning contexts with preschoolers, secondary classroom settings, and distance learning at the postsecondary level.
Educational technology is first and foremost the relationship between the disciplines of education and technology. This includes:
- instruction
- curriculum design
- program evaluation
- hardware, software
- computer science
- mobile technology
- education management information systems
Students with aspirations of working in this innovative field may also be required to learn about database management, computer studies, and information systems during the course of their studies.
About Master’s Degrees in Educational Technology
A master’s degree in educational technology is one of the most sought-after graduate credentials in the field of education. This specialty is not only appealing due to its captivating content, but it is also attractive to educators who want to advance their positions within their respective school districts and increase their pay grade as well.
Professionals in the educational technology field are known for being an integral part of the learning process for all students, regardless of their age, occupation, or subject. With the rise of this field and the positive impact that it’s having on society, it has become clear that more qualified candidates are needed. An accelerated online Master’s in Educational Technology degree is the first step in entering the field, and once it has been completed, students will be able to move into one of the fastest-growing fields in the country.
About Online Master’s Degrees in Educational Technology
Given their subject matter, it should come as no surprise that online master’s degree offerings in educational technology are quite prevalent. More and more colleges and universities across the country are offering these graduate degree programs in education online because of their convenience and flexibility. Often, applicants to these programs are working full-time in the field and desire a flexible pathway to career advancement. Online master’s degrees in educational technology fill this demand.
Types of Accelerated Online Master’s Degrees in Educational Technology
While they may have more in common than not, there are different types of accelerated online master’s in educational technology programs. In your quest to find the right program for your schedule and learning styles, it’s important to know what distinguishes these offerings from one another.
Fully Online Versus Hybrid Master’s in EdTech Offerings
Accelerated online master of ed tech programs can either be fully online or hybrid options. Fully online programs are just that; they require absolutely no campus visits. Hybrid programs, on the other hand, may require in-person class meetings for the purposes of orientations, workshops, or even examinations. Before you choose a program, be sure to confirm any mandatory campus attendance dates, and be sure they work with your schedule.
Asynchronous Versus Synchronous Online EdTech Master’s Programs
Even fully online master’s in educational technology programs can differ from one another. One of these possible distinctions can be found in the content delivery method the program utilizes. Generally speaking, there are two options here: synchronous content delivery and asynchronous content delivery. Synchronous methods are the less flexible of the two. These types of programs feature live-streaming lectures and real-time class discussions, meaning students are required to be online at certain times in order to participate. Asynchronous programs, on the other hand, allow students to log in at their convenience to view pre-recorded lectures and post to discussion forums. Some programs rely on a combination of asynchronous and synchronous elements.
Accelerated Online Master’s Degree Programs in Educational Technology: Admissions
Admissions criteria for accelerated online educational technology master’s degree programs can vary significantly depending on the school and program in question. For example, some programs require that applicants already have a bachelor’s degree and teaching license before they can be admitted. Others require some teaching experience as well. In addition, GRE scores are required by some colleges and universities, while others choose to waive these requirements. While many schools list their admissions requirements and eligibility criteria on their website, it’s best to speak to an admissions counselor for the most specific, up-to-date information regarding the application process.
Curriculum for Accelerated Online Master of Educational Technology Programs
While the details of the exact curriculum for an online master’s in ed tech program will invariably depend on the school you choose to attend and the precise degree program that school offers, there are some commonalities among these programs. For the most part, you can expect that your degree plan will be comprised of a combination of foundational education classes and major-specific courses in educational technology. A few programs offer specializations or concentrations, enabling you to customize your coursework to a specific academic interest or career path. Other programs offer free electives, which can also help you align your courses with your individual preferences and goals.
Foundational Education Classes
Foundational education courses provide a common framework for graduate students as they embark on their online master’s in educational technology programs. These courses may introduce new material, or they may refresh students’ prior knowledge of educational theory and pedagogy. Course titles will vary from program to program, but may include classes similar to those listed below:
- Educational Research
- School Law
- Development, Implementation, and Evaluation of Instructional Materials
- Learning and Motivation
- Design of Learning Environments
- Differentiating Instruction
Major-Specific Courses in EdTech
Foundational education courses may make up a percentage of the curriculum for your online educational technology master’s degree program, but the majority of your coursework will focus on topics directly related to instructional design and ed tech topics. Some of the classes you will take may resemble the following course titles:
- Instructional Technology Theory and Practice
- Survey of Instructional Design
- Technology Production
- The Internet for Educators
- Media Selection and Evaluation
- Ethics and Issues in Educational Technology
Accelerated Master’s in Educational Technology Online: Culminating Elements
In addition to your graduate coursework, you can expect that your online master of educational technology program will feature some type of culminating element. This component of the degree plan gives students the opportunity to demonstrate what they’ve learned, integrate this learning, and/or apply it to a real-world educational setting. Culminating elements can take numerous different forms, including portfolios, research projects, master’s theses, comprehensive examinations, and practicums, for instance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Accelerated Online EdTech Master’s Degrees
The decision to pursue an accelerated online educational technology master’s degree is a significant one, and it will no doubt have far-reaching effects on your career, finances, and job satisfaction. Thus, it’s natural to have numerous questions about these graduate offerings. Below, we will address some of the most common questions about accelerated online ed tech master’s degree programs. Keep in mind that the information provided here is general in nature and is not reflective of any specific school or degree program. For information about a particular offering, it’s best to speak to an admissions counselor or other school representative.
Q: How quickly can I complete my online master’s in educational technology?
A: With an accelerated online master’s in ed tech, it won’t take long to complete your degree. Completion times for the programs in our ranking range from 10 months to just under 2 years.
Q: Are part-time tracks available?
A: Yes. Many colleges and universities give their online master’s in ed tech students the option to study on a part-time basis. However, keep in mind that part-time programs are not accelerated options. On the contrary, it will likely take you more than two years to meet all degree requirements with a part-time course load.
Q: How much does an accelerated online master of educational technology degree cost?
A: Like all degree programs, the cost of an accelerated online ed tech master’s degree will vary widely from school to school. During our research process for this ranking, we identified programs with tuition expenses of over $35,000 and those with tuition costs of less than $5,000, for example.
Career Questions for Accelerated Master’s in Educational Technology Online Degrees
Choosing the right accelerated online master’s degree in educational technology is just one part of the equation for your success as an educator or specialist in ed tech. The ultimate goal is to secure a rewarding career in the field. Below you will find some questions and answers regarding careers in educational technology. We’ve listed these here in hopes that you will find some helpful information to guide you on your own career path:
Q: What career opportunities will I have with an accelerated online master’s in educational technology degree?
A: Below are just some of the jobs you’ll be qualified for with a master of educational technology online degree:
- Course Developer
- Educational Technology Specialist
- District Technology Coordinator
- Technology Integration Specialist
- Primary or Secondary School Teachers
- Educational Software Consultant
- Web-Based Learning Manager
- Web Instructor
- Instructional Technology Supervisor
- Instructional Designer
- Distance Learning Director
- Technology Coordinator
- Computer-Mediated Learning Metrics Manager
- Virtual Reality Specialist
- Computer Learning Lab Coordinator
Q: How much can I earn with an online master’s in ed tech?
A: According to PayScale, the average salary for individuals with a master’s degree in educational technology is just under $70,000. Your exact salary will depend on a number of different factors, though, such as your employer, geographical location, and years of teaching experience.
Q: What professional organizations should I join with a graduate degree in educational technology?
A: As an ed tech degree holder, you will be eligible to join dozens of different professional organizations and associations. Some of these are listed below, but there are others:
- International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE)
- Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT)
- Society for Applied Learning Technology (SALT)
- Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE)
- International Association for K-12 Online Learning
- United States Distance Learning Association
- International Technology and Engineering Educators Association
This concludes our ranking of the Top 25 Most Affordable Accelerated Master’s in Educational Technology.
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