The Best Online Master's in Education Programs
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Skilled educators are in high demand all over the U.S. due to substantial teacher shortages and changing educational standards and regulations. By earning an online master's in education, you'll be prepared for specialized teaching roles and administrative positions, like principal and curriculum designer. These programs particularly suit career changers because they offer comprehensive and hands-on training that new teachers need to succeed in the classroom.
Graduates enjoy more career opportunities and better pay. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), those with a master's degree earn $12,000 more in average annual salary than professionals with baccalaureate credentials. They also benefit from a lower unemployment rate.
What are the best Master's in Education programs of 2020? Here are our top 10:
| Rank | School | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | North Carolina State University | Raleigh, NC |
| 2 | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL |
| 3 | Northeastern University | Boston, MA |
| 4 | University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL |
| 5 | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA |
| 6 | Purdue University | West Lafayette, IN |
| 7 | University of Georgia | Athens, GA |
| 8 | California State University-Fullerton | Fullerton, CA |
| 9 | University of South Florida | Tampa, FL |
| 10 | San Diego State University | San Diego, CA |
Experienced teachers and administrators can obtain their doctoral degree to access the highest leadership positions, like superintendent and educational consultant. Ph.D. and Ed.D. graduates also qualify to teach at colleges and universities. The BLS projects a remarkable 15% increase in jobs for postsecondary teachers, which translates to nearly 198,000 new positions between 2016 and 2026.
2020 Best Accredited Online Master's in Education Programs
The variety of master's in education online programs provide a plethora of options for those seeking graduate training in tune with their academic interests and career goals. However, the sheer number of options can just as easily feel overwhelming. This guide can help you make the right choice by detailing application requirements, tuition prices, and programmatic outcomes.
It'll also break down schools by degree focus, including required coursework, practicum experiences, and capstone requirements. Additionally, the guide delves into each school's concentration options.
Online programs usually offer flexible scheduling through asynchronous classes facilitated by platforms like Canvas and Blackboard. Certain schools deliver alternative learning models. The following guide will tell you if a given program includes synchronous coursework, campus residencies, or cohort learning. This guide also covers enrollment options (full-time, part-time, or accelerated) and how the pace affects degree completion.
To learn more about individual programs, you should contact each school's admission specialists. Once your choice has been made, these counselors can help complete the application process. For information on education scholarships, you should consult this page.
| Rank | School | Location | Cost | Graduation Rate | Description | Toggle |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
North Carolina State University |
Raleigh, NC | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 81% |
The online master's in education program at NC State focuses on instructional and assessment strategies for adult learners in community college and continuing education settings. The 36-credit, fully online curriculum provides 11 concentration options, including adult and continuing professional education, community college teaching, and health professionals education. Graduate students receive academic support from their program coordinator and advisor and have access to 24/7 tech support. The program offers four start dates, providing flexibility in scheduling to meet the needs of working educators. Another option, curriculum and instruction - new literacies and global learning, is available in a hybrid track that includes in-class components. Prospective students must possess a bachelor's degree from an accredited university. NC State does not require standardized test scores. In-state students save approximately 66% on tuition compared to out-of-state learners. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education DeliveryFormat: 100% online or hybrid (online/on campus) ContactPhone: (919) 515-6290 |
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| 2 |
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign |
Champaign, IL | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 84% |
One of the best online master's in education programs can be found at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where degree-seekers can select from nine options such as diversity and equity, global studies, and learning design and leadership. Some degrees plans offer additional emphasis options. U of I's distance library services provide a host of benefits, including research and reference help, one-on-one consultations, and additional IT support. Online learners can also access many academic search engines and other resources. Prospective students need to hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. They should also provide reference letters and a personal statement with their application. All students pay the same per-credit tuition rate, regardless of residency, with 67% receiving some form of financial aid. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education DeliveryFormat: Online Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0 minimum ContactPhone: (217) 333-0960 |
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| 3 |
Northeastern University |
Boston, MA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 88% |
Experienced Massachusetts teachers seeking leadership roles will be interested in Northeastern's online master's in education program. The school offers four fully online tracks, including higher education administration and e-learning and instructional design. Hybrid programs are also available through the college's Boston, Charlotte, and Seattle locations. Students who select the elementary education or secondary education concentration can follow a "Plus One" track to earn both their bachelor's and master's degree in five years. Northeastern admits new degree-seekers in the spring, summer, and fall semesters. Application materials include an essay and two recommendation letters. Program graduates often find employment at MIT and Tufts and within the New York and Boston public school systems, among others. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education DeliveryFormat: 100% online or hybrid (online/on campus) Admission RequirementsWork Experience: Required ContactPhone: (617) 373-2000 |
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| 4 |
University of Central Florida |
Orlando, FL | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 73% |
One of the best programs for exceptional student education, UCF's online master's in education prepares degree-seekers to work as autistic support teachers, literacy coaches, or special needs teachers. The program features an asynchronous curriculum that allows students to schedule academics around their work and home obligations. UCF also provides MA degrees online in related areas like arts education, career and technical education, educational leadership, and instructional design and technology. The Online Connect Center provides distance learners with coaches, academic advisors, financial aid counselors, and other professionals who promote student success. Applicants must possess an active Florida teaching license. In-state students pay nearly 70% less tuition than out-of-state learners. Institutional scholarships are available for online learners who qualify. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education DeliveryFormat: Online Admission RequirementsWork Experience: Required ContactPhone: (800) 903-8576 |
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| 5 |
University of Southern California |
Los Angeles, CA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 92% |
USC's online master's in education program features three concentrations: enrollment management and policy, learning design and technology, and school counseling. All classes in the program use a synchronous format, allowing learners to enjoy the same classroom experience as on-campus students. Students can complete the enrollment management and policy concentration or the learning design and technology concentration -- each of which requires a minimum of 30 credits -- in 21 months. The 49-credit school counseling concentration features both part-time and full-time tracks, with most learners finishing the degree in 2-3 years. Application requirements include undergraduate transcripts, an essay, and two recommendation letters. A private university, USC charges the same per-credit tuition rate to all degree-seekers. Dozens of Rossier School of Education alumni have gained employment as school district superintendents. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education DeliveryFormat: Online Admission RequirementsStandardized Tests: GRE (optional) ContactPhone: (213) 740-0224 |
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| 6 |
Purdue University |
West Lafayette, IN | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 81% |
Among the best online master's in education degrees, Purdue's program is ideal for budding behavior analysts, curriculum designers, learning designers, and special education teachers. Each concentration's curriculum blends asynchronous and synchronous course components, and students learn together as part of a cohort. The program offers 2-4 start dates throughout the year. The curriculum and instruction and special education concentrations both have accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. Application materials include undergraduate transcripts, a 500-word essay, and three recommendation letters. Although online degree-seekers do not qualify for institutional financial aid, nearly 75% of students receive aid from federal and private sources. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education DeliveryFormat: Online ContactPhone: (877) 497-5851 |
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| 7 |
University of Georgia |
Athens, GA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 86% |
UGA provides eight concentration options for its online master's in education, including educational psychology; middle grades education; and learning, leadership, and organizational development. U.S. News & World Report ranks UGA as a top provider of distance education, and 94% of online students find employment or start doctoral studies within one year of graduation. Students who have earned a bachelor's degree with a specialization in career and technical education will be interested in the program's workforce education concentration. This 36-credit option is ideal for managing adult learning programs at colleges or in business settings. UGA accepts up to six graduate transfer credits and provides four start dates throughout the year. Active-duty service members and veterans may qualify for the Georgia HERO Scholarship. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education DeliveryFormat: Online Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.6 minimum ContactPhone: (844) 842-3294 |
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| 8 |
California State University-Fullerton |
Fullerton, CA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 68% |
Emphasizing research best practices, CSUF's online master's in education degrees enable practicing educators to gain skills in curriculum design and learning technology. Students can select from one of three culminating experiences, including a traditional master's thesis. Additionally, aspiring educators can complete a modified curriculum that satisfies California's requirements for teaching licensure. Both online and on-campus students learning within CSUF's College of Education can access valuable student resources entirely online. The university's Center for Careers in Teaching helps degree-seekers prepare for the California Subject Examinations for Teachers. Application requirements include a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. However, CSUF may grant conditional admission to applicants with a lower GPA. Online master's in education graduates from CSUF have found success as private clinicians and literacy coordinators, among other fulfilling careers. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education DeliveryFormat: Online Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0 minimum ContactPhone: (657) 278-3411 |
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| 9 |
University of South Florida |
Tampa, FL | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 73% |
USF provides two online master's in education programs that train the next generation of instructional technology experts and high school teachers. In the secondary education concentration, learners specialize in foreign language education and TESOL best practices. Graduates of the program have gone on to influence education policy at the national level. The College of Education provides valuable resources to both practicing teachers and students wishing to earn their credentials, including a teacher certification program and professional development courses. The school's alumni association offers multiple resources to help future educators in their job search. USF accepts new learners to its online master's in education programs in the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Applicants should possess two years of work experience in an educational setting. By submitting one application, degree-seekers can apply for all institutional scholarship opportunities. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education DeliveryFormat: 100% online Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0 minimum ContactPhone: (813) 974-4700 |
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| 10 |
San Diego State University |
San Diego, CA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 74% |
The fully online master's in educational leadership at SDSU comprises 33 credits that full-time students can complete in just one year. The program's curriculum builds valuable skills quickly, ideal for learners who wish to become leaders and school administrators. The college also offers online credentials and certificates for educators seeking additional skills and teaching authorizations. SDSU's Office of Student Success provides students with information on financial aid, preliminary teaching credentials, and study abroad opportunities. The program accepts applications for the fall semester only. Prospective students must submit undergraduate transcripts, a statement of leadership philosophy, a resume, and two recommendation letters. SDSU does not offer institutional aid to online learners at this time. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership DeliveryFormat: Online Admission RequirementsWork Experience: Required ContactPhone: (619) 594-8566 |
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| 11 |
University of San Diego |
San Diego, CA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 80% |
USD offers one of the best online master's in education programs in the country, with five concentration options including school leadership and curriculum and instruction. Full-time students can earn their degree in just 20 months. USD graduates have gone on to work as principals, educational consultants, and university professors. The program is designed for current elementary and secondary school teachers with at least two years of experience and facilitates the sharing of best practices from a diversity of experiences. USD offers three program start dates throughout the year. Prospective students must possess an active teaching license and be employed at a K-12 school. They also must submit two letters of recommendation. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education DeliveryFormat: Online Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.75 minimum ContactPhone: (619) 260-4580 |
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| 12 |
Clemson University |
Clemson, SC | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 83% |
Rated as one of the best online graduate programs by U.S. News & World Report, Clemson's online master's in education takes just 18 months to complete. The program offers three specializations: STEAM, experiential learning for early childhood, and instructional coaching. Each specialization consists of four courses that build upon a core curriculum. Graduates of the program typically become curriculum specialists or department chairs. Many states offer significant pay increases to teachers who hold this credential. Clemson provides online learners with a host of resources such as IT support, academic success center, writing center, and specialized graduate school resources. Prospective students should have an active teaching license and teaching experience. Clemson charges the same low per-credit tuition rate to all degree-seekers. Some in-state learners may qualify for a need-based grant. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education in Teaching and Learning DeliveryFormat: Online Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0 minimum ContactPhone: (864) 656-5096 |
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| 13 |
University of South Florida-Sarasota-Manatee |
Sarasota, FL | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 54% |
The 34-credit, hybrid-based online master's in education at USFSM prepares students for careers as department heads, principals, and curriculum specialists. Degree-seekers can select from three concentrations: curriculum leadership, K-12 public school leadership, and nonpublic/charter school leadership. Graduates of the program can also work as training and development leaders in corporate and nonprofit settings. Students without credentials who wish to teach in a state primary or secondary school may instead wish to apply to USFSM's master of arts in teaching program. Students in this track can choose to pursue a concentration in online teaching and learning. All prospective students must have a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. They must also submit a personal statement and resume with their application. USFSM offers six scholarships specifically for graduate students. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education DeliveryFormat: Online Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0 minimum ContactPhone: (941) 359-4331 |
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| 14 |
Columbia International University |
Columbia, SC | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 64% |
CIU's fully online master's in education program features two concentrations: global migration studies and spiritual formation leadership. The former prepares students to work with immigrants (asylum seekers, refugees, etc.). The latter provides skills for curriculum design and assessment from a biblical perspective. Students interested in helping immigrants can also choose from concentrations in teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL) or intercultural studies. Learners can complete each version of the program in 24 months. Resources for online learners at CIU include library databases, tutorials on correctly citing academic references, and a plagiarism checker. To apply to the program, candidates must furnish two letters of recommendation and have a minimum 2.7 GPA. Although CIU does not award merit- or need-based aid, the university does offer students an interest-free payment plan. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education DeliveryFormat: Online Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.7 minimum ContactPhone: (803) 807-5609 |
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| 15 |
Carlos Albizu University-Miami |
Miami, FL | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 100% |
Prospective students interested in one of the best graduate TESOL options should consider AU Miami's online master's in education program. The program works to meet the growing demand for TESOL professionals in school systems, government agencies, and higher education. AU Miami also offers a hybrid master of science in exceptional education, with a concentration in varying exceptionalities. Graduates of this degree program typically earn their Florida state teaching certification in exceptional student education. The school's Academic Success and Career Services Center helps online degree-seekers network, search for jobs, and practice communication skills. The center also provides resume and cover letter critiques. A private institution, AU Miami charges the same tuition rate to all online master's in education degree-seekers. Incoming graduate students may qualify for a presidential or institutional scholarship with an award up to $1,500. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Science in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages DeliveryFormat: Online ContactPhone: (305) 593-1223 |
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| 16 |
Michigan State University |
East Lansing, MI | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 80% |
MSU's fully online master's in education program appeals to practicing teachers who want to gain new skills, with many concentrations focusing on the use of digital collaboration and presentation tools in educational settings. The 30-credit curriculum allows students to select one of six concentration options; learners can choose to complete a second concentration as well. The university's higher, adult, and lifelong education (HALE) option features renowned faculty who help solve real-world issues. Graduates of this program progress to careers in academia, research, and policymaking. Applicants should have a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Required application materials include three recommendation letters, a resume, and a professional goal statement. Kentucky residents do not qualify for this program at this time. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education DeliveryFormat: Online Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0 minimum ContactPhone: (517) 355-1825 |
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| 17 |
California State University-San Bernardino |
San Bernardino, CA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 57% |
Prospective students who live near CSUSB's San Bernardino campus can enroll in the hybrid master's in education program. The degree features four concentration options, with 80% of courses available online. The instructional technology concentration conveys the skills necessary to work as an online instructor or corporate trainer. Advising at CSUSB involves both one-on-one academic and financial aid assistance as well as resources that online students can access at any time. Graduate students can apply for more than a dozen scholarship opportunities. Prospective students can enter the program at one of four annual start dates. Application materials include three recommendation letters. In-state students save significantly on tuition compared to out-of-state degree-seekers. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Arts in Education DeliveryFormat: Hybrid (online/on campus) Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.0 minimum ContactPhone: (909) 537-7404 |
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| 18 |
University of St Thomas |
Houston, TX | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 57% |
UST students earning an online master's in education can also gain their teaching license in any of six special education subject areas. This top online master's in education program offers many exceptional opportunities to help students advance, including ongoing professional development, mentorship, and partnerships with outside organizations. The UST School of Education and Graduate Writing Center boasts a bevy of resources for new and current students. UST hosts online information sessions for prospective students. Application requirements include standardized test scores and a personal statement. The college features three scholarships and tuition-reduction programs for graduate students. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Arts in Education DeliveryFormat: 100% online Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0 minimum ContactPhone: (651) 962-4398 |
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| 19 |
Texas A&M University |
College Station, TX | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 82% |
Texas A&M graduate students can select from eight online master's in education options, two of which focus on technology's evolving role in education. Students living near campus have two additional hybrid options available: special education and the art of teaching. The educational technology - library science degree provides students with the technical skills and best practices to become leaders in school library settings. Learners interested in counseling adults in schools or private settings can pursue an M.Ed. or MA in counseling. Prospective students should have an active Texas teaching license and some work experience. Texas A&M does not require standardized test scores. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education DeliveryFormat: Online Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.75 minimum (3.0 minimum preferred) ContactPhone: (888) 868-2682 |
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| 20 |
University of South Carolina-Columbia |
Columbia, SC | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 77% |
UofSC boasts one of the best online master's in education programs, with three concentrations that prepare the next generation of administrators, instructional technology experts, and teaching leaders. The program stays up to date with the latest national education standards. Online students can obtain a professor's help by attending virtual office hours. Other online student support services include academic advisors and the Carolina Teacher Induction Program. Remote test proctoring means that learners need never visit the UofSC campus. UofSC accepts new graduate students in the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Application requirements include two letters of recommendation and a personal statement. All students pay the same per-credit tuition rate regardless of residency, and licensed South Carolina teachers qualify for a tuition discount. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education DeliveryFormat: Online Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0 minimum ContactPhone:(803) 777-6585 |
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| 21 |
University of Utah |
Salt Lake City, UT | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 70% |
The hybrid master's in teaching program at the University of Utah attracts both new and experienced educators who want to learn arts education best practices. The two-year program requires two 12-day on-campus intensives, while all other coursework takes place online. Graduates of this program work as curriculum designers and arts advocates, among other careers. Utah provides an online portal where degree-seekers can access advisors, library resources, and student success advocates, among other resources. Other student success tools include career coaches and the University Writing Center. Unlike other institutions on this ranking, the University of Utah features application requirements that include a work portfolio. Utah residents save approximately 70% on tuition compared to out-of-state degree-seekers. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Arts in Teaching DeliveryFormat: Hybrid (online/on campus) Admission RequirementsWork Experience: Required ContactPhone: (801) 587-0528 |
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| 22 |
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus |
Denver, CO | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 48% |
CU Denver boasts one of the best online master's in education programs for learners who want to become early childhood, literacy, or STEM education experts. Students can complete the program in just 2 years through a cohort learning model that promotes long-lasting professional relationships. The early childhood concentration offers an optional licensure track. Students interested in gaining skills for developing online learning programs can select the learning design and technology concentration. Graduates can work in a variety of educational, library, or corporate settings. Application requirements vary by program. Newly admitted students can apply for institutional scholarships and grants through CU Denver's financial aid portal. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Arts DeliveryFormat: 100% online Admission RequirementsWork Experience: Required (literacy education and STEM education concentrations) ContactPhone: (303) 315-3000 |
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| 23 |
California State University-Fresno |
Fresno, CA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 54% |
Fresno State's Kremen School offers an online master's in education program that features five concentration options including curriculum and design, educational leadership and administration, and reading/language arts. Graduates of the program work in a variety of fulfilling careers such as literacy coach, educational consultant, and college program director. The Kremen School provides online learners with a host of resources, including a career development center and writing studio. To be eligible to apply to the program, prospective students must have a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA. Application materials include college transcripts, a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, and demonstration of writing competency. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Arts in Education DeliveryFormat: 100% online Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.75 minimum ContactPhone: (559) 278-0300 |
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| 24 |
Indiana University-Bloomington |
Bloomington, IN | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 78% |
Featuring both M.S.Ed and MA options, students in IU's online master's in education program can select from seven concentrations including special education and international and comparative education. The adult education concentration uses a hybrid learning model, with 80% of the course content available online. All program options prepare students for careers in education administration or specialized teaching. Learners who wish to become technology trainers in corporate settings can enroll in the instructional systems technology concentration. The literacy, culture, and language education concentration appeals to K-12 teachers, instructional writers, and course developers. Required application materials vary by concentration and may include standardized test scores. Out-of-state degree-seekers pay 19% higher tuition than in-state students. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Science in Education DeliveryFormat: 100% online or hybrid (online/on campus) Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.75 minimum ContactPhone: (812) 856-8500 |
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| 25 |
Florida International University |
Miami, FL | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 58% |
One of the best programs for future education administrators, music teachers, special education teachers, and curriculum specialists is at FIU. The school's online master's in education offers four concentrations that allow full-time students to earn a degree in just one year. FIU Online's student services include success coaches, IT help, and virtual tutors. The university also features many optional development opportunities for online degree-seekers, such as a leadership academy, honors college, and awards for excellence in learning. Although application requirements vary among programs, all applicants should possess an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. A private institution, FIU charges the same per-credit tuition rate to all degree-seekers regardless of residency. Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Education DeliveryFormat: Online Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0 minimum ContactPhone: (855) 823-8414 |
The complete online master's in education page will help you choose the best program for your needs. It provides vital information on admission requirements, course offerings, and concentration options. The guide also offers information on industry associations and other professional development resources.
Explore Online Master's in Education Rankings
By accessing the comprehensive career guide, you'll have all the tools you need to learn about the opportunities available to professionals with an online master's degree in education. The guide details standard entry requirements, licensure and certification processes, and job search resources.
