The internet has changed the way we do business, communicate, and pursue our education. While many of the same foundational educational principles apply both on–campus and online, there are certain specialized skills necessary for teaching courses through the internet. Those interested in teaching distance learning courses may consider pursuing an online master’s in teaching online.
A master’s degree could be a great way to advance your career as an online educator. Earning a master’s in teaching online may make you eligible for administrative positions within your school or district, improving your earning power as you advance in your career.
>Online Master’s in Teaching Online Degree Program Ranking Guidelines
We selected the following degree programs based on the quality of program and range of courses provided, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation.
The Best Online Master’s in Teaching Online Programs
1. University of Missouri
Columbia, Missouri
Offering more than 100 web–based degrees and certificates through its Mizzou Online program, the University of Missouri–Columbia has earned a reputation as one of distance education’s strongest exponents. In addition to making higher education convenient, academically rigorous, and affordable, Mizzou Online gives students the chance to improve and enhance the digital learning experience through its online master’s in learning technologies and design. This 30–credit program’s unique emphasis on web and application design prepares students for careers in the creation and implementation of online learning platforms, educational games, and online curricula. Graduates go on to pursue roles in a variety of professional fields that utilize online education services, including healthcare, the military, and K–12 education.
Required coursework introduces the crucial concepts and skills involved in the design of programs and instructional materials for online learning, as well as key methodologies used in teaching online courses. In addition, students must select two exploratory courses covering web–based learning platforms such as Moodle, Blackboard, Schoology, or Canvas. In addition to 18 hours of core coursework, students complete 12 hours of elective courses. Mizzou Online’s diverse series of electives includes classes in grant writing, mobile web app development, history of books and media, and formative and summative evaluation. A capstone course must be completed prior to graduation.
The master’s in teaching online program includes the following online college courses:
- Designing Online Learning
- Exploring Canvas
- Exploring CourseSites
- Exploring Moodle
- Exploring Schoology
- Instructional Systems Design
- Introduction to Digital Media
- Introduction to Research in Library and Information Science
- Teaching Online Courses
All courses are eight or 16 weeks in length, and available entirely online. Most students take one to two classes each semester and complete the program in around two years. Interested applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited school and have earned at least a 3.0 GPA during the last 60 hours of their undergraduate coursework. GRE scores are not required. All distance learners qualify for University of Missouri’s in–state tuition.
Accreditation
University of Missouri is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The College of Education is accredited by the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC).
2. University of Rochester
Rochester, New York
Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, this New York research university has long been at the forefront of educational innovation. The University of Rochester’s MS in online teaching and learning, offered through its Warner School of Education, is no different. Preparing students for careers in teaching through web–based platforms, it offers a cutting–edge perspective on the design and development of distance learning experiences.
Requiring 33 credit hours, the program includes 15 hours of elective coursework and a three–credit field experience. Core classes cover the fundamentals of online teaching and learning, designing online courses, and research methods for master’s students. Elective course offerings are varied, and address topics such as entrepreneurial skills for educators and literacy learning. Additional courses allow students to concentrate on online instruction for subjects, such as English or science. Those interested may also earn an advanced certificate in online teaching, which requires an additional 15 hours of coursework, including three hours dedicated to experiential learning in the field of their choosing. While this highly flexible curriculum lets students tailor their graduate education to meet personal and professional goals, some associated classes are only offered every other year.
The master’s in teaching online program includes the following online college courses:
- Designing and Evaluating Professional Development
- Designing Online Courses
- Digitally–Rich Teaching and Learning in K–12 Schools
- Entrepreneurial Skills for Educators
- Integrating Technology in Teaching Content Areas
- Learning in the Digital Age
- Literacy Learning as a Social Practice
- Online Teaching and Learning
- Technology and Higher Education
Applicants should possess some prior experience teaching in their area of interest, whether through professional or volunteer work. GRE scores are not required. Distance learners are not offered in–state tuition, but the program does offer a limited number of institutional scholarships. Currently, the University of Rochester’s online master’s program is not available to distance learners living in Delaware, Utah, and Wisconsin.
Accreditation
University of Rochester is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Its master’s in online teaching program is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).
3. Dallas Baptist University
Dallas, Texas
Based just 13 miles from downtown Dallas, this Baptist university offers 59 fully–online degree programs in a range of academic fields. DBU seeks to replicate the same sense of community and dedication to Christian principles in its online programs that it strives to foster on campus. Designed to give working professionals a flexible alternative to traditional degree programs, DBU’s web–based courses are available year–round.
While students pursuing a MA in teaching with a distance learning specialization won’t gain a Texas teacher certification, they will develop a solid knowledge base in the fundamental principles of distance learning and gain insight into the use of technology in the online classroom. This 36–credit program includes 15 hours of specialized major coursework, through which students explore theories in instructional supervision and curriculum design and evaluation, as well as resource areas such as teaching methodologies for a multicultural society and ESL instruction. While all classes are taught online, the program includes a field based service–learning component. Online masters students may also count their academic work toward grade– and subject– specific certifications.
The master’s in teaching online program includes the following online college courses:
- Curriculum Design and Evaluation
- Designing and Developing Distance Learning
- Distance Learning Design and Administration
- Foundations of Distance Learning
- Improvement of Instruction
- Introduction to Exceptional Learners and Mainstreaming
- Research in Education
- Supervision of Instruction
- Teaching and Learning at a Distance
- Technology Tools for the Online Classroom
Due to an increase in the program’s popularity, online students are encouraged to register for courses early. Applicants must possess satisfactory GRE scores as well as a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university. In addition to these requirements, DBU expects all applicants to demonstrate a strong sense of moral character through two letters of recommendation and a personal statement of purpose.
Accreditation
Dallas Baptist University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Its master’s in teaching online program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
4. Wilkes University
Wilkes–Barre, Pennsylvania
Thanks to its policy of charging the same tuition rate for state residents and nonresidents alike, this Pennsylvania school has a well–deserved reputation for affordability as well as academic quality. The university’s master’s in online teaching with Pennsylvania Online Instruction Endorsement prepares educators for careers in education, focusing on how to design, manage, and assess digital learning environments. Graduates who possess a valid Pennsylvania teaching license automatically qualify for an embedded Pennsylvania online instruction endorsement. Students pursuing a master of science in education with a major in online teaching through Wilkes can take advantage of seven– or eight–week accelerated courses, taking one course at a time while completing two courses per semester. Most finish the 30–credit program in around two years.
The program concludes with a course on teaching and learning in the online environment. A few mandatory courses are also offered through a partner program, PLS 3rd Learning, and require separate registration and payments.
The master’s in teaching online program includes the following online college courses:
- Action Research in the E–Learning Environment
- Blended and Synchronous Learning Environments
- Building Online Collaborative Environments
- Developing Online Programs
- Facilitating Online Learning Communities
- Instructional Design for Online Educators
- Teaching and Learning in the Online Environment
- Using Technology for Assessment
- Utilizing Emerging Technologies to Improve Learning
Applicants do not need to take the GRE, but must submit two letters of recommendation and possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Students seeking the embedded Pennsylvania online instruction endorsement must also submit a copy of their Pennsylvania level I or II teaching certificate. Qualified applicants can apply for financial aid.
Accreditation
Wilkes University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
5. Madonna University
Livonia, Michigan
Founded in 1937 by Mother Mary DeSales Tocka, this Livonia, Michigan–based Catholic institution has additional campuses across the state. Madonna University takes pride in its low student–to–teacher ratios, affordable tuition rates, and educational outreach centers serving disadvantaged individuals throughout Michigan. Madonna is also home to a unique sign language studies program, and serves as an ASL state interpreter test site.
Madonna’s MAT in online teaching and eLearning offers current educators the hands–on skills required to design and implement online learning courses across a range of educational contexts. The master’s in teaching online is comprised of 30 hours of coursework, including core classes in comparative and international educational perspectives, as well as the legal and ethical aspects of online learning. The program culminates in an online practicum, in which students design and implement their own online curriculum. Students who earn a master’s in teaching online go on to pursue careers in higher education, corporate training, and online teaching, and work in settings that include colleges, high schools, and private corporations.
The master’s in teaching online program includes the following online college courses:
- American Education: Historical, Social, and Political Perspectives
- Best Practice in Teaching Online
- Change in Educational Organizations
- Diversity, Local Communities, and Global Connections
- Instructional Design for Online Learning
- Management and Evaluation of Online Learning Platforms
- Media Production for Online Instruction
- Online Assessment Practices
- Research and Educational Pratice
- Schooling in Comparative and International Perspectives
Applicants do not need to submit GRE scores, but must supply a personal statement of purpose and a letter of recommendation. Distance learners can also take advantage of Madonna University’s numerous merit– and need–based scholarships, grants, and affiliation awards.
Accreditation
Madonna University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Its master’s in teaching online program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
6. New Mexico State University
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Based in Las Cruces, New Mexico State University holds the distinction of being the first honors college in the state, and prides itself on serving a diverse student population. The school’s MEd with a graduate certificate in online teaching and learning program is intended for current or prospective K–12 educators who wish to take on instructional roles in online and blended learning courses. The master’s in teaching online program holds appeal for current New Mexico educators who already possess a state teaching license, as they will advance to the third tier in New Mexico’s three–tiered licensure system upon graduation; a distinction that assures a base salary of $50,000.
Delivered entirely online, the master’s in teaching online curriculum consists of 36 total hours of coursework; 18 of which center upon general topics in education. An additional 15 hours address concepts specific to online learning and teaching. Students can choose to complete the program in two or three years, with those who work full–time taking a summer semester in addition to abbreviated fall and spring schedules. All students must take a comprehensive examination prior to graduation.
The master’s in teaching online program includes the following online college courses:
- Assessing and Evaluating Online Teaching and Learning
- Design and Delivery of Webconferences and Webinars
- Designing and Organizing Online Learning Environments
- Emerging Technology, Tools, and Techniques
- Fostering Online Learning Communities
- Social Media in Blended and Online Learning Environments
- Tools and Techniques for Online Teaching
- Universal Design for Online Course Design
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The master’s in teaching online program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
7. Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, New Jersey
With an average student age of 35, this Trenton, New Jersey university is known for its pioneering role in providing higher education to adult students, as well as being one of the first schools in the country to utilize distance learning programs. There’s no doubt that Thomas Edison State University is uniquely qualified to offer a web–based MA in liberal studies and online learning and teaching. Focusing on the relationship between the liberal arts and distance learning methodologies, this master’s in teaching online program provides students with a solid theoretical foundation in pedagogy, as well as the skills required to effectively teach in the virtual classroom.
Requiring 36 credit hours of coursework over six terms of study, the MA program includes 18 hours of core liberal arts classes that address topics in philosophy, ethics, art, and technology. In addition, students must complete 12 hours of concentration–specific coursework. The program culminates in a six–hour hands–on capstone project, through which students demonstrate their mastery of the subject matter. Most distance learners earn their degree in two years or less.
The master’s in teaching online program includes the following online college courses:
- Communication and Interactivity in Online Learning
- Issues in Instructional Design in Online Learning
- Learning Technology as an Issue in Online Learning
- Theory and Culture of Online Learning
Applicants are not required to provide their GRE scores, but should hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, along with some professional or volunteer experience in the field of online instruction. In addition, prospective students should submit professional references and a personal essay along with their application.
Accreditation
Thomas Edison State University is regionally accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
8. California State University – East Bay
Hayward, California
Dedicated to making higher education accessible for working professionals, California State University, East Bay offers 35 fully–online degree and certificate programs, including nine graduate degrees. Presented in a unique asynchronous format, CSUEB’s MS in education with online teaching and learning option is designed for current educators who want to explore the field of online education and technology, or branch out into online teaching jobs.
A flexible schedule lets students take as many classes per quarter as they wish, and even skip a quarter if necessary. Although the program as a whole is self–paced, each course requires weekly assignments and threaded discussions.
The master’s in teaching online program’s 30–credit curriculum includes two electives and eight required courses in areas such as the history and culture of online learning communities and technological tools in online instruction. Topics addressed through elective coursework include online content development, educational interface design, and current issues in online teaching. Students are also required to complete a 15–week capstone project. Because the school began transitioning into a semester–based program in fall 2018, future course offerings are temporarily unavailable.
The master’s in teaching online program includes the following online college courses:
- Designing Curriculum for Online Instruction
- Educational Planning and Development for Online Programs
- History and Culture of Online Learning Communities
- Introduction to Online Teaching and Learning
- Research in Online Teaching and Learning
- Teaching Models for Online Instruction
- Technology Tools for Online Instruction
Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university, and have some background in teaching, training, or HR development. In addition to official transcripts, prospective students should submit a letter of intent to the program director.
Accreditation
California State University – East Bay is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Choosing a Program
Many of the classes in an online master’s in teaching program resemble those you may have taken during your undergraduate program. However, at the master’s level, classes go more in–depth and cover specific topics, such as using online learning platforms. You may also be required to conduct research.
When researching online master’s in teaching programs, pay close attention to the specializations offered at each university. If, for instance, you aspire to work as a principal, you may want to choose a program with a concentration in educational leadership. Other specializations include special education and curriculum development.
Online Master’s in Teaching Online Careers
Online master’s in teaching programs open many unique career paths. Master’s degree holders are leaders in the field of education, whether they work in the classroom or the district office. The careers below are only a few of the possible jobs for which you may qualify, depending on your specialization.
- Special Education Teacher
- Special education teachers work to ensure that students with disabilities receive a quality education. They keep track of their students' Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and work with other teachers so that students receive accommodations in general education settings. Special education teachers also hold conferences with parents, students, and teachers throughout the year to review their students' IEP progress.
- Median Annual Salary: $59,780
- Projected Growth Rate: 3%
- Instructional Coordinator
- Instructional coordinators develop curriculums and instructional material. A district may employ several coordinators, one for each subject area. Instructional coordinators work one-on-one with teachers, as well as leading professional development seminars. In addition to a master's degree, most instructional coordinators have many years of teaching experience.
- Median Annual Salary: $64,450
- Projected Growth Rate: 6%
- Speech–Language Pathologist
- Speech-language pathologists help students overcome speech disorders such as Tourette Syndrome and lisping. Speech-language pathologists will often travel between schools in their district to work with students one-on-one or in small groups. Speech-language pathologists will also coordinate with teachers and parents on student therapy and treatment strategies.
- Median Annual Salary: $77,510
- Projected Growth Rate: 27%
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
