Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

A master’s degree in education prepares graduate students for leadership roles in the classroom and in educational settings. Master’s programs for teachers emphasize classroom management techniques, educational research, and educational technology. Master’s programs for administrators train future principals and school administrators in the management and leadership skills required for their roles.

Prospective master’s students can choose to earn an MA in education or an M.Ed. While both degrees prepare students for advanced roles in education, an MA track typically emphasizes research, while M.Ed. pathways focus more on practice. It generally takes full-time students two years to earn a master’s in education.

An online master’s in education program may appeal to working educators seeking career advancement. The flexible, accessible learning environment means teachers can attend a top program without quitting their job or relocating.

In an online program, graduate students complete coursework requirements at their convenience. Some online programs offer courses with an asynchronous format, meaning there are no set course times. Other programs use a synchronous format, where students meet for class at scheduled times. Many synchronous programs set meeting times in the evenings or weekends to fit a teacher’s schedule.

By choosing to earn an online master’s degree in education, teachers can advance their careers while working full time. Nevertheless, an online learning environment requires a self-motivated approach. Many programs offer online advising and career support to help online learners.

Earning a master’s degree in education helps teachers advance their careers and increase their earning potential. Many roles in education require a master’s degree, including administrative positions like school principal and higher education administrator. Teachers with a master’s degree often earn higher salaries and take on leadership roles in their schools.

While a bachelor’s degree meets the requirements for a teaching license, roles like instructional coordinator, lead teacher, principal, and superintendent often require a master’s degree. Teachers can also strengthen their classroom skills by pursuing a master’s degree.

An accredited online master’s degree in education meets the requirements for a school administrator license in every state. Prospective master’s students can explore different career paths with an education degree for more information on the roles that require a master’s degree in education. After completing a master’s in education, some individuals choose to further advance their careers by earning an online doctorate in education.

Prospective education graduate students should consider several factors when choosing an online program. In addition to weighing the total cost of a master’s in education, students should also consider the program’s curriculum, the length of the degree plan, and any on-campus requirements.

By researching the following factors, educators can find the best online master’s degree in education for their career goals and needs.

Educators considering a master’s degree should always choose an accredited school. Colleges and universities that hold regional accreditation meet the highest standards for educating students. Accrediting agencies review schools to determine whether they meet accreditation standards. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation reviews accrediting agencies and maintains a database of accredited schools.

In addition to regional accreditation, programs can hold specialized, programmatic accreditation. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) accredits master’s programs. CAEP evaluates education programs in terms of student learning outcomes, faculty qualifications, and graduation requirements. Programs must regularly undergo review to maintain their CAEP accreditation.

The best online education master’s programs hold CAEP accreditation. Programmatic accreditation benefits students in several ways. In many states, only accredited education degrees meet the requirements for an educator license. Employers may also prefer to hire educators with an accredited degree.

Earning a master’s degree in education generally takes two years, although some programs offer an accelerated, one-year master’s degree. Several factors can influence the length of a master’s in education degree track, including a student’s enrollment status and graduation requirements. For example, many programs incorporate field experiences, but the length of an internship can vary depending on the program.

Master’s programs for teachers generally require a more extensive practicum, while programs with a school administration or higher education focus often require less field experience. Many master’s in education online programs design the degree plan for working educators, prioritizing flexibility around a teacher’s schedule.

While earning an online master’s degree in education, graduate students take courses designed to strengthen their teaching and/or administrative abilities, depending on the program.

Earning an online master’s in education prepares graduates for a variety of roles in education. Teachers with a master’s degree move into leadership roles and often earn higher salaries. A master’s in education also leads to opportunities as an instructional coordinator, a school principal, or a school administrator.

Professional organizations help graduate students and educators build their professional skills and advance their careers. The following organizations connect educators with professional development resources, research opportunities, and networking activities.