The Most Affordable Online Master's in Education Degree Programs

Last Updated: Dec 03, 2019

By TBS Staff

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Earning an online master's degree in education can benefit many different professionals. For instance, an individual with years of teaching experience may want to specialize in a certain type of teaching, such as special education or English as a second language (ESL). Alternatively, a teacher may hope to transition into an administrative role.

A master's in education explores advanced topics that students might not have covered during their undergraduate degree. Courses focus on leadership, school finances, curriculum design, and technology implementation in schools.

The job market for graduates of an education master's degree is projected to grow significantly over the next decade. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data projects that the number of K-12 principals to increase by 8% in the next decade, while instructional coordinators can expect 11% growth from 2018-28.

This guide outlines what you can expect from online master's in education programs, specific courses in the curricula, and potential jobs and salaries for master's graduates.

The Most Affordable Online Master's in Education Degree Programs

Affordable Online Master's in Education Degree Program Ranking Guidelines:
We selected the online education programs based on the quality of the program, the types of online classes offered in education, faculty, rankings, awards, and reputation — including the school's reputation for effectively providing quality online degree programs.

RANKING METHODOLOGY

Methodology for College Rankings

The motto of TheBestSchools.org is Finding the best school for you. Here is how we do it:

The value of any ranking list of schools and/or degree programs depends on having a methodologically sound assessment of each school’s/program’s characteristics, especially insofar as these can be objectively measured. A college or university is a complex entity, with numerous factors to consider, and distilling these down to the place where meaningful comparisons can be made to form a defensible ranking list becomes part science and part art.

To meet this challenge—and thereby provide you with the most useful and insightful educational rankings on the Internet — TheBestSchools.org formulates our rankings based on five informational categories (six, when considering online schools). The major metrics and qualities for which we rank are these (with expanded, detailed considerations and weights listed):

1. Academic excellence based on a school’s curriculum generally or within the selected discipline [weight = 25%]

• Weighs school against known leading schools in that discipline
• Weighs number of core curricula listed as advanced courses within that discipline and compares against introductory courses
• Weighs school’s curriculum against known knowledge needs of major employers in that discipline
• Considers number and types of specializations offered within that discipline
• Considers faculty expertise in that discipline
• Considers range of electives within that discipline
• Considers quality of online environment offered to students (if applicable), particularly within that discipline

2. Strength of faculty scholarship [weight = 25%]

• Considers education background of the faculty
• Considers years of faculty experience both inside and outside of academia.
• Considers faculty membership and leadership within relevant, prominent associations
• Considers academic papers published by faculty in relevant, prominent periodicals
• Considers awards and recognitions given to faculty members from prominent organizations and from other sources

3. Reputation [weight = 20%]

• Considers a school’s reputation among academic peers and employers regarding the following:
  • Faculty
  • Curriculum
  • “Freshness” of academic knowledge
  • Adaptability to changes in employment sectors
  • Suitability of graduates for the workplace

4. Financial aid [weight = 10%]

• Mandatory: Requires full accreditation from an agency endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education and listed on the federal register to accept student federal financial aid
• Considers range of school-sponsored financial aid such as scholarships and grants

5. Range of degree programs [weight = 20%]

• Considers range of degree levels: associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral and professional
• Considers range of degree subjects offered, such as art & design, computers & technology, education & teaching, criminal justice, and business

6. Strength of online instruction methodology (if applicable) [weight = 25%; subtract 5% from each of the above for online schools/programs]

• Considers the following of the online classes:
  • Types of online technology used to deliver content
  • Pedagogy style: asynchronous, synchronous, or both (depending on the degree)
  • Extent and quality of the online, community learning environment, including options for communication, interactivity, and collaboration between students and also between students and instructors
  • Variety, breadth, and depth of coursework, and its support, including project options and online tutoring
• Considers the following of instructors:
  • Extent of training for teaching within an online learning environment
  • Amount of timely, consistent feedback to students
  • Extent of collaboration with prospective employers to ensure suitability of instructional materials for achieving desired skills
  • Ratio to number of students in a class
• Number and quality of internships in a student’s geographical area for applicable degrees

Because students tend to review a variety of information when choosing a school, the weight a student gives any one criterion will vary. For instance, it’s not enough to offer a carefully constructed ranking of great schools if many are too expensive or too difficult to get into.

To better serve the needs of prospective students, we are therefore increasingly offering filters that help you better use our rankings to find the schools that match your specific needs. These supplement our ranking criteria and include:

• Accreditation
• Public or private status
• Acceptance rate
• Retention rate
• Graduation rate
• ACT/SAT requirements
• Cost in-state / out of state
• Undergrad, grad, or both offered
• Region
• State
• City

Get the best rankings here AND get them to suit your personal needs. That’s TheBestSchools.org advantage!

If you have any questions about our ranking methodology, please contact us.

Citations: For a broader account of our ranking methodology, especially as it relates to TheBestSchools.org's underlying educational philosophy and, in other ranking articles, looks beyond academic excellence (as here) to such factors as return on investment or incidental benefit, see our article "Ranking Methodology: How We Rank Schools at TBS." Reputation of schools and degree programs can at least in part be gauged through the school or department's publishing activity, citations, and desirability. At TheBestSchools.org, we keep track of such social and peer validation: "Making Sense of College Rankings." For nuts-and-bolts information about colleges and universities, we look to the National Center for Education Statistics and especially its College Navigator. Insofar as salary and inflation data are relevant to a ranking, we look to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Finally, nothing beats contacting schools and degree programs directly, which our researchers often do, with the result that all the entries in this article should be considered as belonging to this citation!

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1. California State University – Fullerton

Fullerton, California

Since its founding in 1957, California State University, Fullerton has grown into one of the largest public universities in Southern California. The university hosts 40,000 students and comprises eight schools. Prospective online students can explore certificate, bachelor's, and master's programs through Cal State Fullerton's extension school and individual academic departments. Most full-time online master's students can earn their degrees in two years.

At Cal State Fullerton, online students can choose from five online master's in education programs: primary education, secondary education, special education, instructional design and technology, and literacy and reading education. The primary, secondary, and special education programs confer initial California teacher licensure. Out-of-state students should determine whether California teaching licenses transfer to their home states before applying. The primary and secondary education programs offer different concentrations, some of which require students to take courses in a hybrid format.

Prospective students can apply to these online master's degree in education programs for the spring or fall semester. Application requirements include undergraduate transcripts and a field experience form that shows at least 45 hours working with children in education settings. Transfer students may apply up to nine outside credits toward their Cal State Fullerton degrees. The Graduate Studies Office awards six funding opportunities to eligible students, each of which requires an additional application.

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2. University of South Florida – Sarasota – Manatee

Sarasota, Florida

A member of the University of South Florida system, the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee educates over 4,000 students, many of whom earn degrees by taking evening or online courses. With so many online programs, the university represents an excellent choice for Florida residents and out-of-state prospective students researching online programs. Most full-time students can earn an online master's degree in 24 months, with those possessing transfer credits able to graduate sooner.

USFSM boasts nine online master's in education programs, including career and technical education, physical education, and learning design and technology. In the latter program, students earn 33 credits in topics like foundations of educational research, web programming and design, and school cybersecurity. Online master's in education programs at USFSM feature optional concentrations and capstone courses.

USFSM accepts new online graduate students in the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Application requirements for all online graduate programs at USFSM include a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Applicants also submit at least one letter of recommendation and a personal essay. Some online education master's programs require GRE scores and use score cutoffs. Academically gifted students may qualify for a fellowship or scholarship.

3. California State University – Fresno

Fresno, California

Founded in 1911 as the Fresno State Normal School, California State University, Fresno entered the California State University system in 1961. Today, more than 24,000 students earn degrees from the university's eight colleges. Fresno State boasts eight online degrees that prepare aspiring educators, nurses, and business leaders for their careers' next stages. Online courses use the Blackboard virtual learning system and Google Classroom. Typical online graduate students can graduate in two years if they follow recommended course sequences for their programs.

The online master's in education with a specialization in reading and language arts program at Fresno State helps experienced teachers and recent college graduates prepare for careers like literacy educators, consultants, and community college instructors. Within this five-semester, 30-credit program, students complete coursework in education research, research for reading professionals, and language issues in reading. Students take one course at a time, and the curriculum uses a mix of synchronous and asynchronous learning. For the capstone, students can take a comprehensive exam, write a master's thesis, or complete an action-research project.

Application requirements include three recommendation letters, a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA, and passing a writing competency exam. International prospective students can apply, but Fresno State may ask them to submit TOEFL scores.

4. Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, Utah

Western Governors University boasts entirely online business, education, information technology, and nursing programs, making the university an excellent choice for prospective students researching flexible and affordable online degrees. Over 100,000 students choose WGU for the university's dedication to online learning. WGU awards bachelor's and master's degrees, and master's students can graduate in two years or less with full-time study.

Students enrolled in WGU's Teachers College can select from 20 in-demand online master's in education programs. Five of these degrees confer initial teacher licensure in all states, whereas the remaining 15 programs allow licensed teachers to advance their educations and careers by specializing in subjects like special education, secondary chemistry, or learning and technology. As new courses start every month, new students do not have to wait long before starting their education.

Each online master's in education program has slightly different admission requirements. However, all applicants submit recommendation letters, official undergraduate transcripts, and a personal essay. WGU's generous credit transfer policies mean that some students can earn their degrees in just two semesters. Students may qualify for the Teachers of Tomorrow Scholarship, which awards up to $2,500. Active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their dependents qualify for additional financial aid opportunities, as well.

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5. Purdue University

West Lafayette, Indiana

Through Purdue Global, students living all over the world can earn an associate, master's, or doctoral degree and many graduate certificates or professional development credits. At the master's level, prospective students can select from fully online or hybrid programs wherein some courses take place on the university's West Lafayette, Indiana, campus. Courses use an asynchronous learning format so that students do not have to pause their careers while earning their degrees.

The online master's in education in special education program at Purdue appeals to both aspiring and experienced teachers. The program boasts four graduation tracks: degree, degree with initial licensure, degree with additional endorsement in special education, and degree with additional endorsement in intense special education interventions. The latter two programs require that students already possess teaching licenses in their home states. The master's with initial licensure track confers an Indiana teaching license that transfers to 42 states. Full-time students can earn their degrees in just 20 months.

Admission requirements to this master's in education online program include official undergraduate transcripts, GRE scores, a phone interview, and three recommendation letters. Although the university does not award scholarships or grants to online students, it provides veterans and active-duty military personnel tuition assistance through the Yellow Ribbon Program.

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6. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Edinburg, Texas

At University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, online students can earn master's degrees in business, health science, nursing, public affairs, social work, or education. The university also awards certificates in each subject to help working professionals hone their skills and earn promotions in their current careers. UTRGV's five online education degrees and three online education certificates use an asynchronous learning format, allowing practicing teachers and administrators to earn their degrees without sacrificing their incomes or careers.

The online master's in education in curriculum and instruction with a specialization in elementary math science education appeals to prospective students who want to enter education leadership positions that do not require teacher licensure. Full-time students can complete this entirely online program in 10 months by taking accelerated seven-week courses. Unique coursework includes assessment of learning, development of laboratory and field experiences, and teaching and learning geometric concepts. Graduates go on to careers as instructional coordinators or curriculum specialists, among other administration positions.

Terms start every eight weeks, and prospective students must have a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Applicants with lower GPAs may still apply as long as they submit GRE scores. Academically gifted students may qualify for the Dean's New Graduate Student Scholarship or up to 200 additional financial aid opportunities curated by UTRGV.

7. Appalachian State University

Boone, North Carolina

Appalachian State University has grown significantly since its founding as a teacher-preparation college. Over time, the university's academic offerings have grown to include over 170 undergraduate and over 40 graduate majors. Online programs use asynchronous learning and Moodle to allow students to fit their educations around their busy schedules. Students in hybrid programs receive additional support, as Appalachian boasts three satellite campuses throughout North Carolina. Typical full-time students in master's programs can earn their degrees in two years.

At Appalachian, students can choose from six online master's in education degrees: elementary education, curriculum specialist, middle-grades education, higher education, or reading specialists. The elementary education program requires at least 39 credits, and applicants should already possess a valid teaching license. The middle-grades program does not require a license; rather, it conveys initial North Carolina teacher licensure. Students can enhance their education by completing one of nine graduate certificates. The reading specialist program uses a hybrid learning model wherein students attend some courses on Appalachian's Boone, North Carolina, campus.

Prospective students can apply for the fall or spring semester. Application requirements include a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA — Appalachian makes exceptions in certain circumstances — and standardized test scores (e.g., MAT, GRE, or GMAT).

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8. Colorado State University – CSU Global

Greenwood Village, Colorado

CSU-Global boasts low tuition and dozens of certificates, bachelor's degrees, and master's degrees. Online students benefit from digital tutoring, career resources, and library resources that they can access at any time. In master's programs, students can study full- or part-time. Students and professors interact through online discussion boards that do not require set meeting times.

The online master of science in teaching and learning program at CSU-Global appeals to licensed teachers who want to further their educations and careers. The rigorous curriculum conveys essential skills school administrators need to develop curricula, education standards, and instructional materials. This online master's in education comprises 27 core credits with coursework in technology and innovation, action research, and evaluation and assessment. Students select from eight specializations comprising 12 credits each. The program concludes with a capstone course wherein students complete original research and write a master's thesis.

Prospective students can begin classes in the spring, fall, or summer semester. Application requirements include a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, a resume, and a statement of purpose. CSU-Global may ask international applicants to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. The university awards 13 scholarships to online students, and each scholarship opportunity requires a separate application.

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9. University of Utah

Salt Lake City, Utah

At the University of Utah, online bachelor's and master's students can advance their educations without pausing their careers or neglecting their personal responsibilities. Online courses follow the same academic schedule as on-campus courses, and some online programs require hybrid components.

The hybrid master of arts in teaching-fine arts program at the U appeals to experienced teachers and recent college graduates who want to learn vital arts education skills. The 30-credit curriculum comprises two 12-day, on-campus seminars that occur during the program's summer semesters. Online courses emphasize teaching best practices and follow an asynchronous format. Students and professors collaborate through online office hours. Most students graduate in two years, and graduates go on to careers that do not require teacher licensure, such as instructional coordinators or fine arts instructors at private schools.

Prospective students can apply for the fall semester. Application requirements include a bachelor's degree in an arts subject, a statement of purpose, and two recommendation letters. Applicants must also submit criminal background checks by the March 1 deadline. The U's College of Education awards need-based grants and merit-based scholarships to eligible online master's in education students.

10. University of South Florida

Tampa, Florida

At the University of South Florida, Florida residents and out-of-state students can receive an excellent online education at an affordable price. USF boasts a plethora of fully online graduate programs that prepare the next generation of healthcare, education, and business professionals. Most full-time students can earn their master's degrees in two years.

The online master of arts in physical education at USF offers tracks for licensed physical education teachers and physical education professionals who work in nonlicensure settings. The 30-credit program follows an asynchronous format and uses the Canvas virtual learning system. Unique coursework includes foundations of measurement and foundations of educational research.

Students in both tracks can customize their educations through electives, such as grant writing or sports psychology. The curriculum features practical experiences, and USF helps students find appropriate placements in their home communities. This online master's in education program concludes with a comprehensive exam.

USF accepts new students in the summer, fall, and spring semesters. Prospective students must possess a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. International students follow the same application requirements, though USF may request TOEFL scores.

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11. University of South Florida, St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg, Florida

At the University of South Florida, Florida residents and out-of-state students can receive an excellent online education at an affordable price. USF boasts a plethora of fully online graduate programs that prepare the next generation of healthcare, education, and business professionals. Most full-time students can earn their master's degrees in two years.

The online master of arts in physical education at USF offers tracks for licensed physical education teachers and physical education professionals who work in nonlicensure settings. The 30-credit program follows an asynchronous format and uses the Canvas virtual learning system. Unique coursework includes foundations of measurement and foundations of educational research.

Students in both tracks can customize their educations through electives, such as grant writing or sports psychology. The curriculum features practical experiences, and USF helps students find appropriate placements in their home communities. This online master's in education program concludes with a comprehensive exam.

USF accepts new students in the summer, fall, and spring semesters. Prospective students must possess a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. International students follow the same application requirements, though USF may request TOEFL scores.

12. Indiana University – Bloomington

Bloomington, Indiana

The state's flagship public university, Indiana University Bloomington educates more than 40,000 students, and IU Online awards associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Professionals can advance their careers by earning online certificates. Online programs boast asynchronous coursework taught by professors who also teach on-campus courses.

Students enrolled in the master of science in education: literacy, culture, and language education program at IU learn how to interpret education research, measure student growth, and master many other in-demand skills. The 36-credit curriculum includes major, foundation, and inquiry courses. The curriculum features coursework in instructional issues in language education and strategies for educational inquiry. Students can personalize their online master's degree in education by completing nine elective credits.

For the capstone, online master's degree in education students can select from a comprehensive exam or master's thesis. Typical students who choose the latter option plan to pursue doctoral degrees in education. Graduates who take the comprehensive exam can go on to careers that include literacy instructors, writers, and diplomats.

IU accepts new online graduate students in the summer, fall, and spring semester. Applicants must submit undergraduate transcripts that reflect a minimum 3.0 GPA, two recommendation letters, and a personal statement. IU considers applicants with 2.75-2.99 undergraduate GPAs as long as they submit GRE scores. Some graduate students may qualify for a fellowship, and active-duty military personnel and veterans automatically receive tuition assistance.

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13. Texas Woman’s University

Denton, Texas

With dozens of online and hybrid programs in the health sciences, education, and business fields, Texas Woman's University attracts prospective students living all over the world. Online students use Canvas to turn in assignments and interact with professors and peers asynchronously. Most full-time master's students can earn their degree in two years.

The master's in reading education program at TWU offers a master of arts and a master of education. The program uses a hybrid learning model wherein students take approximately 40% of all courses on TWU's Denton campus. Courses emphasize technology's use in the classroom and prepare students for careers that require an initial Texas teaching license, such as a reading specialist. To earn this license, candidates must also pass the Texas Examination of Educator Standards.

TWU educates men and women, and applicants must have a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. TWU considers transfer credit on a case-by-case basis.

14. California State University – East Bay

Hayward, California

From its Hayward campus, California State University, East Bay provides excellent academic programs to over 15,000 students. The university boasts a plethora of fully online bachelor's and master's programs, many offered in a hybrid format. Cal State East Bay also offers two online professional certificates in education and business management.

The online master's in education with a concentration in online teaching and learning differs from other programs on this ranking as it prepares students to become online educators. The curriculum features unique coursework in teaching models for online instruction, designing curriculum for online instruction, and research in online teaching and learning. All courses, with the exception of the capstone, last seven weeks.

The program follows an asynchronous learning format, and students can receive help from professors during virtual office hours. Students must maintain a "B" average to remain in good academic standing, and typical full-time students earn their degrees in only 16 months.

Cal State East Bay accepts new students to the online master's in education program in the spring and fall semesters. Applicants must possess a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and some teaching experience. Cal State East Bay accepts students with lower undergraduate GPAs in certain circumstances. Online students interested in university-funded financial aid opportunities must take at least three courses each semester to qualify.

15. University of Houston – Clear Lake

Houston, Texas

A member of the University of Houston system, the University of Houston-Clear Lake educates over 6,000 undergraduate and over 2,000 graduate students. The university awards bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, many of which students can complete entirely online. Full-time students earning master's degrees online can graduate in two years.

The educational management MS online at UHCL helps experienced teachers earn a Texas principal credential. The 30-credit curriculum comprises eight-week courses, and some unique offerings include principalship, school law, and applications of technology. Students who live near the university's campus can complete the program in a hybrid format.

Beyond coursework, students complete many practica and internship experiences. Students who work full-time in schools can satisfy this requirement at their job sites. The program concludes with a capstone experience wherein students complete an action research project and write an extended essay. Though the program focuses on those who wish to pursue careers as principals, it also prepares graduates for positions as supervisors and instructional specialists.

UHCL accepts new students to the online education master's program at five points throughout the year. Out-of-state students should determine whether a Texas principal endorsement transfers to their home state before applying. Applicants must submit official undergraduate transcripts and standardized test scores (e.g., MAT, GRE, or GMAT).

16. San Diego State University

San Diego, California

Founded in 1897 as a teacher-preparation college, San Diego State University now offers 190 bachelor's, 91 master's, and 25 doctoral degrees. The university's College of Extended Studies brings excellent academic programs to students living all over the world. Through the Open U system, prospective students can sample online courses without formally applying to SDSU. Online graduate programs train the next generation of health, education, and business managers.

At SDSU, students in the MA in educational leadership program earn their degrees in just 12 months. Courses in visionary leadership, school improvement, and professional learning and growth convey essential skills that school- and district-level administration positions require. The curriculum also focuses on technology's use in schools.

The cohort learning model helps students — future education leaders — form strong professional bonds. Graduates qualify for a California principal endorsement, which may not transfer to all states. Prospective out-of-state students should research their state's reciprocity status before applying.

SDSU accepts new graduate students in the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Prospective students must already work as teachers or school administrators. San Diego County residents may not apply. Applicants must submit undergraduate transcripts, GRE scores, two letters of recommendation, and a statement of leadership philosophy.

17. North Carolina State University

Raleigh, North Carolina

From its Raleigh campus, North Carolina State University provides students living all over the world undergraduate and graduate programs through online education. Students can select programs from nine colleges, and those living near campus can earn their degrees in a hybrid format. At the master's level, students can select from nearly 60 degree opportunities.

The master of education in STEM education-science program at NC State features a 45-credit curriculum with core coursework in special problems in mathematics and foundations of science education. Students customize their education by selecting five electives from 13 options, including fundamentals of climate change science, dendrology, and biochemistry of gene expression.

Full-time students can complete the program in two years, while part-time students may need 3-4 years to earn their degrees. The program satisfies North Carolina requirements for an advanced teaching license; this benefit may not extend to out-of-state students. Graduates can go on to careers as secondary school teachers, community college instructors, and other positions that involve formal or informal education.

NC State accepts new students at six points throughout the year. Application materials include a bachelor's degree in a science topic, a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, three letters of recommendation, and a personal narrative. NC State does not require standardized test scores.

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18. The University of Texas at El Paso

El Paso, Texas

Through UTEP Connect, students from all over their world can earn a certificate, bachelor's degree, or master's degree entirely online. Master's programs prepare aspiring educators and nurses for leadership careers, and most full-time graduate students can earn their degrees in just two years.

The online M.Ed. in curriculum and instruction with a concentration in early childhood education prepares practicing educators to use the latest research-based practices in their classrooms. The 36-credit curriculum features coursework in literacy and biliteracy development, early childhood education pedagogy, and scholarly writing for educators.

As the program focuses on career-applicable skills, students do not write a thesis or complete a capstone course. Prospective students interested in pursuing doctoral degrees should research other programs on this ranking. Graduates who do not pursue education careers often go into fields like entertainment, social work, or retail management.

UTEP accepts new students at eight points throughout the year, making the university a perfect match for prospective students who want to start their degrees as soon as possible. Application requirements to this online master's degree in education include a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and relevant work experience. Applicants must also submit a statement of purpose. International prospective students can apply, but UTEP may request TOEFL scores.

19. Minot State University

Minot, North Dakota

Based in Minot, North Dakota, Minot State University educates over 2,200 undergraduate and over 1,200 graduate students in three colleges and one graduate school. The university's academic offerings include dozens of undergraduate and graduate programs and certificates that help professionals advance their careers.

The master of science in special education at MSU boasts four concentrations: deaf or hard-of-hearing education, specific learning disabilities, early childhood special education, and special education strategist. Each concentration comprises 25 core credits featuring coursework in research design and methodology, clinical practice, and supervision in special education. All students also write a thesis, preparing them for both careers and doctoral study.

Concentrations require an additional 4-6 courses. In the hard-of-hearing concentration, students analyze teaching best practices, advanced audiology, and early intervention techniques. Before graduating, all students must pass the PRAXIS exam for their concentration topic. Students remain in good academic standing by maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Prospective students should possess a bachelor's degree in special education and a minimum 2.75 GPA. Other application requirements include a statement of purpose. New graduate students who take at least six credits each semester qualify for scholarship opportunities; students interested in scholarships should submit the university's scholarship application by the February 15 deadline.

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20. University of North Georgia

Dahlonega, Georgia

The University of North Georgia's Distance Education and Technology Integration programs bring the university's academic excellence to students living all over the world. Online students benefit from virtual textbooks, online tutoring, and 24/7 information technology support. With asynchronous learning, students can complete work at any time of day and earn their degrees as quickly as possible. Finally, prospective part-time students should consider UNG for graduate programs; the university's online degrees offer all core courses each semester.

The master of education in middle grades math and science at UNG prepares licensed middle-grades teachers to earn an additional endorsement on their licenses. The 12-course, 36-credit curriculum features coursework in building professional learning communities, mathematical reasoning, and physical science for middle-grades teachers. The capstone course involves a practicum experience that students complete at their job sites. Full-time students can earn their degrees in just 16 months, and graduates go on to in-demand careers, including middle-grades STEM teachers.

UNG accepts new online master's in education students in the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Application requirements include a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA and a valid teaching license. Out-of-state students who live in states without Georgia teaching licensure reciprocity cannot apply.

21. University of Illinois at Springfield

Springfield, Illinois

The University of Illinois at Springfield first opened in1969 and became part of the University of Illinois system in 1995. Today, the university educates over 5,000 students and offers undergraduate and graduate degrees to on-campus and online students. UIS has won multiple awards for its online programs, making it a superb choice for in- and out-of-state students.

The master of arts in education at UIS prepares teachers for careers in education administration. The 32-credit curriculum emphasizes coursework in school law, principalship, and supervision of instruction. In the final semester, students complete two principal internships at their job sites. Although most students can graduate in two years, academically ambitious students can extend their education by earning a graduate certificate; some options include a learning behavior specialist certificate and educational technology certificate.

Students remain in good academic standing by maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA. Graduates can go on to careers like teacher mentors, community college instructors, or human resources managers. Finally, the online master's in education program satisfies Illinois' requirements for a principal endorsement.

Prospective students can apply for the fall or spring semester. Applicants with 2.5-2.99 GPAs may receive conditional admission. UIS does not ask for standardized test scores or recommendation letters. Although applicants aren't required to have a teaching license, they should have some teaching experience.

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22. Northeastern State University

Tahlequah, Oklahoma

NSU dates back to 1851 when the Cherokee Nation founded a seminary school in Tahlequah, a city in present-day Oklahoma. When Oklahoma became a state, it took control of the school and created satellite campuses in Muskogee and Broken Arrow. Today, the university boasts five online bachelor's programs and 10 online master's programs.

The master of education in science education at NSU boasts two cohort tracks: STEM and endeavor cohort, including endeavor STEM certificate. Both tracks use the same professional education courses featuring coursework in educational research and inquiry in science education. STEM-track students complete a specialization before selecting a capstone experience from three options: action research, science teaching portfolio, or science curriculum project. Endeavor-track students complete a specialized capstone that qualifies them for the endeavor certificate.

The degree's rigorous curriculum fully aligns with the latest teaching standards for science educators (e.g., Next Generation Science Standards). Also, both tracks in this online master's in education program prepare students for National Board Certification, which increases teachers' employability and salary potential. Cohorts graduate in two years.

Prospective students must possess a bachelor's degree in a science or education topic, currently work in a school setting, and either hold or qualify for a teaching license. Other application requirements include GRE or MAT scores. Students can fund their education by applying for a TEACH Grant, which awards up to $4,000 per year if students promise to teach in a school that educates low-income students.

23. East Central University

Ada, Oklahoma

From its campus in Ada, Oklahoma, East Central University offers out-of-state and international students five online bachelor's degrees and five online master's degrees. These programs prepare the next generation of educators, nurses, and criminal justice professionals for managerial careers, which often boast lucrative salaries. Online graduate students can complete their online degrees in an asynchronous format, which allows them to continue working full- or part-time.

Students at ECU can choose from four in-demand online master's in education programs: library media, educational leadership, educational technology, and sports administration. The library media and sports administration programs include valuable practica experiences. In educational technology, students learn the knowledge and skills necessary to become technology integration coaches or academic technology specialists. Full-time students can earn their degrees in as few as 18 months.

Prospective students can apply to one of six start dates throughout the year. Applicants to the educational leadership program must possess an active teaching license and at least two years' experience. All master's in education programs require applicants have a minimum 2.5 undergraduate GPA and GRE or MAT scores. Students who do not meet the GPA requirement can still receive conditional admission in certain circumstances.

24. University of Alaska Fairbanks

Fairbanks, Alaska

Since its founding in 1917, University of Alaska Fairbanks has brought excellent higher education programs to Alaska residents. Its six campuses in and around Fairbanks offer 190 certificate and degree options. UAF stands apart from others on this ranking by boasting a School of Natural Resources and College of Fisheries, both of which perform research into Alaska's natural habitats. Online students can choose from dozens of entirely online certificates, bachelor's programs, and master's programs.

The online master of education in special education program at UAF attracts recent college graduates and practicing teachers who already possess licensure. Unlicensed students complete a 39-credit curriculum that confers initial Alaska teacher licensure, whereas licensed teachers complete a 36-credit curriculum that confers a special education endorsement. Both tracks feature coursework in the assessment of students with disabilities, teaching mathematics to special learners, and introduction to applied social science research. All students take a comprehensive exam at the conclusion of the program.

Application requirements include a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, a passing score on the Praxis I test, and experience working with children with physical or mental disabilities. Applicants must also submit three letters of recommendation.

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25. The University of West Florida

Pensacola, Florida

University of West Florida brings rigorous certificate, bachelor's, and master's programs to students living in the U.S. and beyond. Online students receive virtual tutoring and access to library and career resources. The school's Military and Veterans Resource Center helps active-duty military personnel earn their degrees by offering 24/7 academic and technical support.

The online MA in exceptional student education comprises a 30-credit core curriculum. Students also complete a 15-credit cognate in special and alternative education or applied behavior analysis. In the applied behavior analysis cognate, students analyze behavioral assessments, supervision and management fluency, and single-case design. The special and alternative education program emphasizes integrated curriculum and best practices in teaching challenging students. Students must remain in good academic standing by earning a minimum "C" grade in all courses.

UWF accepts new students in the spring, summer, and fall semesters; each start date uses a different application deadline. Application requirements include an active teaching license, a bachelor's degree that reflects a minimum 3.0 GPA, and GRE or MAT scores.