The 8 Best Online Master's in Online Teaching Programs

Last Updated: May 31, 2019

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. Teachers with a master's degree, on average, earn $11,000 more annually than their peers with only a bachelor's degree. Earning a master's in teaching online may also make you eligible for administrative positions within your school or district, improving your earning power as you advance in your career.

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.

For career information, skip down:

• Online Master's in Teaching Online Careers

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.

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 rankings of other well-known educational ranking companies. 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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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.

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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 particular 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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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&rsqou;s in teaching online program holds particular 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

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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. The majority of 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.

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 of 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.

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Online Master's in Teaching Online Careers

Online master's in teaching programs open up 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.

1. 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: 8%
2. 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: 11%
3. 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: 18%

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

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