Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
A master’s degree in educational technology can lead to a rewarding management-level career where you help incorporate technology into teaching techniques and school curricula. Education technology professionals work for schools, government agencies, and private companies.
Use this guide to learn about the best online educational technology master’s programs. This page also includes a ranking of the top schools where you can earn this degree, explains what to expect from an educational technology master’s program, and outlines potential educational technology careers.
What Is a Master’s in Educational Technology?
An online educational technology master’s degree prepares graduates to use new technologies in the classroom, lead workshops, develop and analyze curricula, and act as project managers and consultants. Typical online master’s in educational technology applicants include school administrators and teachers seeking new challenges, students coming straight from undergraduate programs, and professionals from other fields seeking a career change.
Top Master’s in Educational Technology Online Programs
The University of Florida
Gainesville, FL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Gainesville, the University of Florida enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online educational technology program. The master of education in curriculum and instruction program with a concentration in educational technology builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the field and related industries. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in educational technology. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with a background in educational technology typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
The University of Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 37%
Total Online Master's Programs: 42
Program Name: Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction: Educational Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,770
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,335
- In-State$4,477
- Out-of-state$25,694
- In-State$10,770
- Out-of-state$27,335
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate37%
- Students Enrolled52,407
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Orlando the University of Central Florida offers an online master's in educational technology. The master of arts in instructional design and technology program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the education field and related industries. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in educational technology. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants who majored in education or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
The University of Central Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 44%
Total Online Master's Programs: 26
Program Name: Master of Arts in Instructional Design and Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,916
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,759
- In-State$4,478
- Out-of-state$19,810
- In-State$6,916
- Out-of-state$25,759
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate44%
- Students Enrolled69,402
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Georgia
- Athens, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in educational technology program, offered by the University of Georgia from its Athens campus, ranks as a top program. The master of education in learning, design, and technology with an emphasis in instructional design and development strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or move into new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in educational technology. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants who majored in education or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
The University of Georgia at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 45%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of Education in Learning, Design, and Technology: Instructional Design and Development
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,878
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,186
- In-State$9,790
- Out-of-state$28,830
- In-State$8,878
- Out-of-state$25,186
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate45%
- Students Enrolled38,920
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment14%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Virginia-Main Campus
- Charlottesville, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students interested in a master's in educational technology can earn their degree from the University of Virginia, located in Charlottesville. The master of education in instructional technology program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of educational technology. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants with prior experience in educational technology or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
The University of Virginia at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 24%
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Program Name: Master of Education in Instructional Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $16,578
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,770
- In-State$14,970
- Out-of-state$47,833
- In-State$16,578
- Out-of-state$27,770
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate24%
- Students Enrolled25,012
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment10%
- AccreditationYes
Florida State University
- Tallahassee, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students interested in a master's in educational technology can earn their degree from Florida State University, located in Tallahassee. The master of science in instructional systems and learning technologies program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in educational technology or a related field.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Florida State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 36%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: Master of Science in Instructional Systems and Learning Technologies
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,684
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,116
- In-State$4,640
- Out-of-state$19,084
- In-State$9,684
- Out-of-state$24,116
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate36%
- Students Enrolled42,450
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
Johns Hopkins University
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's in educational technology program at Johns Hopkins University, located in Baltimore, Maryland, offers a flexible online format. The master of science in education in digital age learning and educational technology builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the education field and related industries. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on educational technology. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The admission requirements include a background in education or a related field.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Johns Hopkins University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 11%
Total Online Master's Programs: 30
Program Name: Master of Science in Education in Digital Age Learning and Educational Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $55,350
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $55,350
- In-State$55,350
- Out-of-state$55,350
- In-State$55,350
- Out-of-state$55,350
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate11%
- Students Enrolled27,079
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Texas A&M University
- College Station, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in College Station, Texas A&M University enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online educational technology program. The master of education in learning design and technology emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on educational technology. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants with prior experience in education or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Texas A&M University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 38
Program Name: Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,677
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,700
- In-State$7,941
- Out-of-state$34,190
- In-State$6,677
- Out-of-state$18,700
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled68,726
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment14%
- AccreditationYes
The University of South Florida-Main Campus
- Tampa, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's degree in educational technology at the University of South Florida, located in Tampa, offers high academic quality. The master of science in learning design and technology uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on educational technology. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in education or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
The University of South Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 48%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of Science in Learning Design and Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,350
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,048
- In-State$4,559
- Out-of-state$15,473
- In-State$8,350
- Out-of-state$19,048
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate48%
- Students Enrolled44,246
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Pennsylvania State University World Campus
- University Park, PA
- 4 year
- Online
From its campus in University Park, Pennsylvania State University World Campus offers an online master's in educational technology. The master of education in learning, design, and technology program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in education or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Pennsylvania State University World Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 76%
Total Online Master's Programs: 52
Program Name: Master of Education in Learning, Design, and Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $21,682
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,682
- In-State$13,484
- Out-of-state$13,484
- In-State$21,682
- Out-of-state$21,682
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students EnrolledN/A
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Champaign, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers an online master's in educational technology. The master of education in curriculum and instruction with a concentration in digital learning strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to educational technology. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in education or a related field.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 59%
Total Online Master's Programs: 30
Program Name: Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction: Digital Learning
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,997
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,404
- In-State$14,188
- Out-of-state$33,127
- In-State$14,997
- Out-of-state$28,404
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate59%
- Students Enrolled51,605
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Houston
- Houston, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Houston offers a flexible online master's in educational technology program. The master of education in curriculum and instruction with a concentration in learning, design, and technology builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the field and related industries. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on educational technology. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The master's program recommends a background in education before applying to the program.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
The University of Houston at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 65%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction: Learning, Design, and Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,370
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,746
- In-State$8,219
- Out-of-state$20,747
- In-State$8,370
- Out-of-state$17,746
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled46,148
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment43%
- AccreditationYes
The University of West Florida
- Pensacola, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's in educational technology degree at the University of West Florida, located in Pensacola, uses a flexible distance learning format. The master of education in instructional design and performance technology program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in educational technology. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The admission requirements include a background in education or a related field.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
The University of West Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 31%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of Education in Instructional Design and Performance Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,088
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,166
- In-State$3,735
- Out-of-state$16,004
- In-State$7,088
- Out-of-state$22,166
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate31%
- Students Enrolled12,557
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment66%
- AccreditationYes
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus
- Stillwater, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Oklahoma State University, located in Stillwater, offers a flexible online master's in educational technology. The master of science in educational technology program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. Applicants with prior experience in education or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Oklahoma State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 70%
Total Online Master's Programs: 25
Program Name: Master of Science in Educational Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,531
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,034
- In-State$5,366
- Out-of-state$20,877
- In-State$5,531
- Out-of-state$21,034
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate70%
- Students Enrolled24,079
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment42%
- AccreditationYes
Texas Tech University
- Lubbock, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's degree in educational technology at Texas Tech University, located in Lubbock, offers high academic quality. The master of education in instructional technology program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum explores educational technology research and methodologies. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program builds on prior educational technology experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Texas Tech University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 69%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master of Education in Instructional Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,958
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,428
- In-State$6,744
- Out-of-state$16,704
- In-State$5,958
- Out-of-state$13,428
- Retention Rate87%
- Acceptance Rate69%
- Students Enrolled38,742
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment52%
- AccreditationYes
Georgia Southern University
- Statesboro, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students interested in a master's in educational technology can earn their degree from Georgia Southern University, located in Statesboro. The master of education in instructional technology program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in educational technology or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Georgia Southern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 54%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master of Education in Instructional Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,977
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,890
- In-State$4,371
- Out-of-state$15,425
- In-State$4,977
- Out-of-state$19,890
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate54%
- Students Enrolled26,054
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Choosing the Right Online Educational Technology Master’s Program
Applicants must weigh multiple variables when choosing a program, including cost, location, and accreditation status. As you research schools, keep in mind factors such as:
- Program Length: Many master’s programs take up to two years of full-time study. However, some schools offer accelerated or part-time options that let learners better align the degree with their schedules.
- Required Application Materials: Programs typically require application materials like resumes, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. Some schools may also require standardized test scores.
- Accreditation: Ensure every college and university on your list holds institutional accreditation from an authorized accreditation agency. Accreditation verifies that a school meets standards of academic excellence. Education programs can also hold optional programmatic accreditation from agencies like the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
- Cost/Financial Aid: Tuition can vary depending upon factors like program reputation, schools’ public or private status, and student state residency. Attendees can reduce their tuition burden by comparing programs to find more affordable options. Additionally, research each institution’s financial aid opportunities.
What to Expect From an Educational Technology Graduate Program
Educational technology degrees cover topics like instructional design, educational research, and project management. Programs may offer electives or specializations that let learners focus their studies on subfields like online teaching or assessment.
Explore the Educational Technology Curriculum
Each master’s in educational technology program offers its own classes, but you may encounter common courses such as:
- Theories of Educational Technology: This course explores learning and instructional theories for educational technology, including the technological pedagogical content knowledge framework. Enrollees learn how to adapt their instructional styles and technologies to meet the needs of various learners.
- Instructional Design: This class examines technology’s impact on learning and provides an overview of strategies for incorporating technology into curriculum plans. This course covers a variety of technological applications in teaching and helps prepare enrollees for careers as instructional coordinators. Topics may include human/computer interfacing, digital pedagogical adaptations, and design processes.
- Assessment and Evaluation: This class examines how educators can use computer-based tools to collect and interpret student data and make decisions based on those results. Knowledge of assessment and evaluation is critical for aspiring instructional coordinators and managers of training programs.
Understand Certifications and Licenses
Professional teachers with state certification can expand their teaching credentials by earning an online master’s degree in instructional design. Teacher certification requirements vary from state to state, but commonalities include the completion of an undergraduate degree in education or a teacher preparation program and passing scores on state teaching exams.
What Can I Do With a Master’s in Educational Technology?
Educational technology professionals can utilize software and hardware tools to assist with online or in-person learning for traditional students, adult learners, and corporate employees. Graduates of master’s in educational technology online programs can directly integrate technology into their own classrooms or apply their knowledge to other subfields of education. These workers can pursue roles like curriculum designer, online course developer, or librarian.
After a master’s degree, educational technology specialists can further advance their knowledge through a Ph.D. program or additional certification. Ph.D. in educational technology degrees may require over 80 credit hours of coursework, including core classes, research requirements, and dissertation credits. Doctorate-holders can pursue advanced roles as professors, researchers, or instructional designers.
Certain states may offer educational technology specialist certifications, which verify workers’ expertise in designing classroom technologies and training teachers to utilize these tools. These certifications may require the completion of a relevant program, specific coursework, and a background check.
| Job | 2023 Median Annual Salary | Job Growth Rate (2022-32) |
|---|---|---|
| Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers | $63,670 | +1% |
| Education Postsecondary Teacher | $73,240 | +4% |
| Instructional Coordinators | $74,620 | +2% |
| Librarians and Library Media Specialists | $64,370 | +3% |
| Training & Development Specialist Salary | $61,850* | N/A |
| Academic Technology Specialist | $61,960* | N/A |
*Denotes May 2024 average annual salary data from Payscale
Discover Educational Technology Professional Organizations
In addition to earning an online master’s in instructional technology, joining a professional organization is a great way to learn more about best practices in this field and network with other educational technology specialists. These groups often post job openings and offer mentorship, peer engagement, and scholarly inquiry opportunities. We explore several relevant groups below.
- ASCD+ISTE
- In 2023, ASCD merged with the International Society for Technology in Education to form one of the largest nonprofit organizations for teachers. Membership benefits include access to podcasts, an educational leadership magazine, webinars, articles, and networking opportunities.
- National Education Association
- With 3 million members, NEA is the largest professional employee organization in the U.S. It supports public schools and educators of all grade levels through its action-focused advocacy, grants, and teaching tools.
Popular Questions About Master’s in Educational Technology Online
What is educational technology?
Educational technology refers to the use of technology to help students meet their learning goals. Professionals specializing in this field can work in K-12 classrooms, higher learning institutions, or corporations.
Is a master’s in educational technology worth it?
Individuals with a passion for education and technology may find a master’s in educational technology online program worth the cost and time commitment. These degrees build expertise in areas like instructional design and instructional technology. Graduates can qualify for jobs that pay higher-than-average wages.
Where can I get a master’s degree in educational technology?
You can get an educational technology degree online or in person at schools throughout the U.S. Ensure the schools on your list hold institutional accreditation. Compare each program’s courses, costs, and flexibility to find your ideal degree.
How long does an online master’s in educational technology take to complete?
A master’s in educational technology degree typically takes two years to complete. However, some online master’s programs may offer accelerated options.
What is the difference between educational technology and online education?
Educational technology refers to any type of technology used to help students, including tools for in-person learning. In contrast, online education refers specifically to completing coursework online. Teachers can use educational technology like website design, graphic design, and interactive software to develop integrative online teaching methods.
