Should You Get Your Master’s in Education Online or in Person?

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A master’s degree in education can help you strengthen your teaching skills and move into more administrative roles. Graduate school can also be a great option for you if you’re seeking specialized training via a concentration. But should you earn your master’s in education (M.Ed.) online or in person?

Many universities offer education graduate programs in both delivery formats, and there are benefits to both. For example, an online master’s in education may appeal to working educators looking for flexibility, whereas an in-person program may benefit students who are hoping to network during their studies.

Before applying to M.Ed. programs, make sure you consider the pros and cons of both options.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

What’s the difference between earning your master’s in education online vs. in person? There might be more to it than you think. The delivery method can shape your experience while in school and even in your career path afterward.

When you think about the cost of pursuing a master’s in education, it’s important to consider not just the tuition but also the additional fees.

There are other variables too, like the difference in tuition rates for in-state vs. out-of-state students, which can significantly impact the overall cost. For students living in the same state as their university, an in-person degree can be an economical option, especially if they can live at home.

On the other hand, students interested in attending a university outside their state could find online programs to be more cost-effective. Studying online — even at an out-of-state school — may mean paying reduced tuition.

Plus, online students avoid the living costs associated with in-person programs, such as room and board, transportation, and on-campus fees.

Online master’s programs in education typically offer greater flexibility than on-campus programs, featuring asynchronous classes that allow you to complete your assignments at your own pace. Working educators or those with restricted daytime availability may find online options easier to work into their schedules.

On-campus programs often hold classes at fixed times, which requires a greater time commitment and offers less scheduling flexibility.

Online and in-person master’s in education programs often give students the opportunity to participate in hands-on training experiences or may require them. These allow you to gain practical skills and apply your knowledge in real-world settings.

Fieldwork requirements may prove challenging for online students, however, depending on how far they live from the school. In contrast, on-campus learners have easy access to faculty when exploring internship and fieldwork options and may have the ability to work closely with their peers.

While online and on-campus students typically learn from the same professors, learners in online programs may have less access to faculty than those who study in person. On-campus students can stop by an instructor’s office hours or stay back after class to ask questions — they may also see their professors around campus.

It may be easier to establish relationships with professors and classmates in person, but online programs are dedicated to nurturing these connections using various online communication tools.

Most master’s in education programs offer networking opportunities for students, although they may look a little different if you’re studying online vs. on campus.

Both virtual and in-person learners can make the most of their university’s career services department, which is committed to helping students network and find jobs and internships. Career services staff can also help you connect with online and on-campus alumni who may be working in your field of interest.

So should you apply to on-campus or online master’s in education programs? The answer depends on your unique circumstances. If you also have a job, you may prefer the flexibility of an online program. An asynchronous program may be better than one that requires commuting and a set schedule if you have children.

On the other hand, some learners benefit from in-person classes that encourage interaction. Cost also remains a major concern for many students. Your local public university might offer less-expensive-than-average master of education options — or an online program at an out-of-state university might charge a lower tuition rate.

Consider your schedule and availability. Then, research programs to learn more about their specialization options, financial aid opportunities, and graduate placement rates. By considering your strengths and your career goals, you can find the program that fits your needs.