Best Online Master’s in Teaching
Online teaching master’s programs provide students with the knowledge and skills to deliver online instruction in corporate and school settings.
Earning a master’s degree in teaching prepares graduates for in-demand careers as K-12 teachers and instructional coordinators. Additionally, many districts offer higher salary schedules for instructors with master’s degrees.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), high school teachers earned a median pay of over $65,220 per year in 2023. This degree can also lead to opportunities outside of the classroom, such as corporate trainer or education consultant.
Our list ranks the top online master’s programs for teachers to help students find the program that best aligns with their professional goals. This page also explores specialization options, career paths for a master of teaching degree, and how to choose the right online teaching program.
Featured Online Schools
Top Online Master’s in Teaching Programs
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students seeking an online secondary education degree can enroll in the master of arts in teaching program at Georgia Southern University, located in Statesboro. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree. Master's degree-holders can advance their current career or move into new careers.
The curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants without a teaching background may need to complete prerequisite courses.
Online enrollees can add to their resume by pursuing internships at approved local locations. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Georgia Southern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 54%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master of arts in teaching
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,977
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,890
- In-State$4,371
- Out-of-state$15,425
- In-State$4,977
- Out-of-state$19,890
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate54%
- Students Enrolled26,054
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Harding University
- Searcy, AR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master of arts: excellence in teaching program at Harding University ranks as a top degree. The program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The curriculum emphasizes the best practices in teaching. Learners can individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants who majored in education or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees can add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Degree candidates can also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Harding University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 61%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of arts: excellence in teaching
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,372
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,372
- In-State$20,010
- Out-of-state$20,010
- In-State$13,372
- Out-of-state$13,372
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate61%
- Students Enrolled4,879
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment12%
- AccreditationYes
Clemson University
- Clemson, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in teaching and learning at Clemson University, located in Clemson, South Carolina, offers high academic quality. The program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. Master's graduates can also pursue careers in new industries.
The curriculum emphasizes the best practices in teaching and learning. Degree-seekers focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in education or a related field.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Degree candidates can also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Clemson University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 51%
Total Online Master's Programs: 18
Program Name: Master's in teaching and learning
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,600
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,050
- In-State$14,118
- Out-of-state$37,110
- In-State$10,600
- Out-of-state$22,050
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate51%
- Students Enrolled25,822
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment29%
- AccreditationYes
Arkansas State University-Main Campus
- Jonesboro, AR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Jonesboro, Arkansas State University-Main Campus offers an online master of arts in teaching - special education K-12. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous program. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The curriculum emphasizes the best practices in special education. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The program recommends a background in education or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees can add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Arkansas State University-Main Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 80%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master of arts in teaching – special education K-12
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,986
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,972
- In-State$6,540
- Out-of-state$13,500
- In-State$4,986
- Out-of-state$9,972
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled13,356
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
Columbus State University
- Columbus, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master of arts in teaching at Columbus State University, located in Columbus, Georgia, prioritizes flexibility. Enrollees train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. Applicants who majored in education or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Graduate students can expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Columbus State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 79%
Total Online Master's Programs: 9
Program Name: Master of arts in teaching
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,300
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,394
- In-State$4,371
- Out-of-state$15,425
- In-State$6,300
- Out-of-state$11,394
- Retention Rate72%
- Acceptance Rate79%
- Students Enrolled7,877
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Biola University
- La Mirada, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students interested in a master's in education can earn their master of arts in teaching from Biola University, located in La Mirada, California. The program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in education or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Biola University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 70%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Master of arts in teaching
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,394
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,394
- In-State$41,976
- Out-of-state$41,976
- In-State$11,394
- Out-of-state$11,394
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate70%
- Students Enrolled6,103
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master of arts in teaching at Liberty University, located in Lynchburg, Virginia, offers a flexible online format. The program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing students for leadership positions with increased salary potential. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in teaching. Learners can individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in education or a related field.
Online enrollees can participate in local internship programs at approved locations. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 51%
Total Online Master's Programs: 67
Program Name: Master of arts in teaching
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,980
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,980
- In-State$15,417
- Out-of-state$15,417
- In-State$7,980
- Out-of-state$7,980
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate51%
- Students Enrolled85,586
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment92%
- AccreditationYes
University of North Dakota
- Grand Forks, ND
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Grand Forks, University of North Dakota hosts a top-ranked master's in teaching and leadership. The program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. Master's graduates can also pursue new career opportunities.
The curriculum emphasizes current research in teaching and leadership. Learners prepare for focused careers by choosing electives and concentrations. The admission requirements include a background in education or a related field.
Online enrollees can complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
University of North Dakota at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 28
Program Name: Master's in teaching and leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,534
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,434
- In-State$8,212
- Out-of-state$14,371
- In-State$10,534
- Out-of-state$18,434
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled13,581
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
University of the Southwest
- Hobbs, NM
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master of science in education - online teaching at University of the Southwest, located in Hobbs, New Mexico, prioritizes flexibility. The program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. With a master's degree, graduates can also pursue new career opportunities.
The curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in online teaching.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Degree candidates also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
University of the Southwest at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 45%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master of science in education – online teaching
Graduate Tuition In State: $22,500
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,500
- In-State$16,000
- Out-of-state$16,000
- In-State$22,500
- Out-of-state$22,500
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance Rate45%
- Students Enrolled875
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment100%
- AccreditationYes
Stephen F. Austin State University
- Nacogdoches, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Nacogdoches, Texas, Stephen F. Austin State University offers an online master of arts in teaching with teacher certification preparation. The program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. Master's graduates can pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in education. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in education or a related field.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Stephen F. Austin State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 68%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of arts in teaching with teacher certification preparation
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,112
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,708
- In-State$6,096
- Out-of-state$16,224
- In-State$5,112
- Out-of-state$12,708
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance Rate68%
- Students Enrolled12,969
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment40%
- AccreditationYes
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
- Natchitoches, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master of arts in teaching in early childhood education at Northwestern State University of Louisiana, located in Natchitoches, offers a flexible online format. The program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new careers.
The curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of early childhood education. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends a background in education before applying.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Northwestern State University of Louisiana at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 82%
Total Online Master's Programs: 17
Program Name: Master of arts in teaching in early childhood education
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,738
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,526
- In-State$5,180
- Out-of-state$15,968
- In-State$5,738
- Out-of-state$16,526
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance Rate82%
- Students Enrolled10,900
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment82%
- AccreditationYes
Concordia University-Nebraska
- Seward, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master of education at Concordia University-Nebraska, located in Seward, offers a flexible online format. Students prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous program. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new careers.
The curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in education. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants without a degree in education or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Concordia University-Nebraska at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 78%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of education
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,650
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,650
- In-State$32,890
- Out-of-state$32,890
- In-State$8,650
- Out-of-state$8,650
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled2,703
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
Boise State University
- Boise, ID
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Idaho-based Boise State University enrolls master's students in its online master in teaching in special education program. The program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing enrollees for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in special education. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a background in special education may need to complete prerequisite courses.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students can also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Boise State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master in teaching in special education
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,110
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,030
- In-State$5,532
- Out-of-state$22,452
- In-State$7,110
- Out-of-state$24,030
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled26,217
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Northern Arizona University
- Flagstaff, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master of arts in teaching at Northern Arizona University, located in Flagstaff, offers a flexible online format. Students prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous program. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new careers.
The curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in teaching. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants without an education background may need to complete prerequisites.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Northern Arizona University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 85%
Total Online Master's Programs: 25
Program Name: Master of arts in teaching
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,305
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,522
- In-State$10,018
- Out-of-state$16,613
- In-State$10,305
- Out-of-state$19,522
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate85%
- Students Enrolled30,733
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Concordia University-Saint Paul
- Saint Paul, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Concordia University-Saint Paul, located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, enrolls master's students in its online master of arts in education in teaching program. Learners train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree. Master's graduates can advance their current career or move into new careers.
The curriculum explores teaching research and methodologies. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in education before applying.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Concordia University-Saint Paul at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 98%
Total Online Master's Programs: 20
Program Name: Master of arts in education in teaching
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,550
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,550
- In-State$22,800
- Out-of-state$22,800
- In-State$8,550
- Out-of-state$8,550
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance Rate98%
- Students Enrolled5,137
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
Best Online Programs
Masters in Teaching
2022
Online Master’s in Teaching Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Rankings MethodologyWhat Is an Online Master’s in Teaching Degree?
An online master’s in teaching degree provides advanced training in pedagogy, classroom instruction, and student assessment. Many current teachers enroll in online master’s programs to strengthen their instructional skills and increase their earning potential.
An online learning format appeals to working educators who require a flexible learning environment. Many online master’s degrees for teachers use an asynchronous format, which allows graduate students to complete coursework around their teaching schedules. Programs often let teachers take a full-time load in the summer while taking fewer classes during the school year.
During an online master’s degree in teaching, graduate students improve their classroom management techniques and learn about effective instructional design and educational technology. After completing their master’s degrees, graduates can advance into leadership roles in teaching.
Choosing an Online Program
Prospective graduate students should consider several factors when evaluating online master’s programs for teachers. Aspects like program length, instructional method, and cost can help educators narrow down options and find the right fit for their goals and needs. Learn more about how to choose an online degree below.
What Else Can I Expect From a Master’s in Teaching Program?
Many master’s programs for teachers let teachers customize their degrees to align with their career goals and interests. For example, within teaching master’s programs, graduate students may focus their training by choosing a specialization or pursing particular electives. This section explores common classes and specializations available master of teaching programs.
Master’s in Teaching Curriculum
Master’s in Teaching Specializations
Teaching Careers
A master’s degree in teaching prepares graduates for many careers in the education field. For example, a master of teaching program with a secondary education specialization prepares graduates for careers as middle school or high school teachers. Current teachers who earn their master’s degrees can increase their salaries and advance into leadership roles.
A master’s in teaching degree can also lead to instructional coordinator, education consultant, corporate trainer, or educational technology specialist careers. Note that some careers may require a special license: For example, administrative positions in education often require school administrator licenses.
Teaching Professional Organizations
Professional organizations help teaching students transition from their programs into the workforce. Many organizations offer professional development resources, host conferences with networking opportunities, publish current educational research, and maintain job boards to help members find career opportunities.
American Federation of Teachers
This union, founded in 1916 and affiliated with the AFL-CIO, now represents 1.7 million members. Within AFT are several subdivisions, with the preK-12 division representing both public and private school teachers. AFT also offers programs and resources to support educators’ professional growth: Teachers can access classroom resources, professional learning materials, and special needs information.National Education Association
Founded in 1857, NEA now represents three million total educators at every level. The organization advocates for teachers on a local level, offering local branches in every state. NEA also offers practical tools and ideas for teachers, including lesson plans, teaching strategies, and classroom management tips.U.S. Department of Education
ED oversees the educational system at a federal level, setting policies on federal funding for education and collecting data on K-12 schools. Teachers can access valuable data and research through ED, including education statistics and report cards.Frequently Asked Questions
Earning a master’s in teaching degree generally takes 1-2 years, depending on the program. Many online master’s degrees for teachers also offer accelerated or asynchronous pathways.
A master’s degree in teaching prepares graduates for classroom positions or roles as instructional coordinators, education consultants, and corporate trainers.
The median pay for high school teachers exceeded $65,220 per year in 2023. Typically, teachers with master’s degrees earn more than those with bachelor’s degrees.
A master’s in teaching degree can prepare educators for leadership roles, and many schools pay master’s degree-holders higher salaries, making the degree worth it for many educators.
A master of teaching degree focuses on classroom instruction and student-centered roles in education, while a master’s in education prepares graduates for administrative and consultation roles.
