Online Master's in Education

An education professional works on a laptop in a comfy chair in a library.

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If you have program-specific questions, please contact OEL Assistant Director Nicole Barone . 

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Today’s education landscape needs leaders like you — dynamic educators and innovators committed to making sustainable and scalable change for all students by building on your professional experience in PreK–12 classrooms and districts; on college and university campuses; or in philanthropies, nonprofits, policy organizations, and ed-tech initiatives.

That’s why the Harvard Graduate School of Education launched an online Master's in Education Leadership, a two-year, part-time Ed.M. program with Higher Education and PreK-12 pathways specifically designed for working education professionals who bring at least seven years of relevant or transferrable work experience. The program will strengthen the invaluable skills you’ve already developed and give you the tools to propel yourself to new leadership opportunities and to even greater impact.

“Skilled leadership is essential to creating opportunity and overcoming the longstanding inequities that create barriers to success. At HGSE, we are committed to helping you meet today’s complex challenges by becoming the type of leader education needs.” Bridget Long Dean and Saris Professor of Education and Economics Harvard Graduate School of Education

A New Option for Experienced Educators

The online Master's in Education Leadership from HGSE consists of a diverse cohort of professionals like you — leaders who are advancing in their careers, and who bring important perspectives grounded in real-world challenges. Our program is conducted almost exclusively online — except for one short on-campus experience, where you'll meet your cohort in person and build community prior to the start of the first fall semester.

The program offers a distinctive Harvard experience — including deep engagement and interaction with Harvard faculty and talented peers, as well as a lifelong professional network — within an intentionally designed curriculum and robust opportunities for mentorship and coaching. The program is career-embedded — so you can immediately apply what you are learning, in real time, to the work you are doing on the ground. 

Two Pathways: Higher Education and PreK–12

In the online Master’s in Education Leadership, you will choose between two Professional Pathways — Higher Education or PreK–12 — that align with the area of practice or the student community in which your work will make an impact. Students interested in advancing into senior leadership roles in colleges and universities, or in organizations that impact higher education, should study in the Higher Education Pathway . Students who want to do change-making work within the education ecosystem on behalf of students from early childhood to secondary education levels should select the PreK–12 Pathway .

Our prescribed curriculum is intentionally designed to meet your professional needs. It is anchored in both foundational knowledge and core competencies in education leadership related to the U.S. education system. You will also complete pathway-specific courses to advance your leadership in higher education or preK–12 education, as well as the Foundations courses. You will also have the opportunity to select courses from a small subset of electives. A minimum of 42 credits are required to graduate with an Ed.M. degree from HGSE.

The main elements of the curriculum are: 

Foundations Courses

Throughout the two-year program, you will participate in Foundations courses in four areas: How People Learn, Leading Change, Evidence, and Equity and Opportunity. In these courses, you’ll build core skills central to the profession of education.

  • The online Ed.M. program commences with How People Learn, which runs online June–July and requires a time commitment of 10–15 hours per week.  
  • You’ll participate in Equity and Opportunity, Evidence, and Leading Change throughout the two-year program.

Professional Pathways

All students will choose between the Higher Education and PreK–12 Pathways. Throughout the program, you will take both cross-pathway courses and pathway-specific courses. Cross-pathway courses will allow you to develop leadership skills that are important across sectors, as well as have discussions about how higher education and preK–12 can work more effectively together. Cross-pathway courses include:

  • Real Talk: The Art and Practice of Communications 
  • Strategic Finance for Nonprofit Leaders

Pathway-specific courses are directed to the knowledge and skills important for leadership in the Pathway professional setting. 

Elective Coursework

Students will have the opportunity to choose from a curated list of electives during the optional January terms, and during the fall and spring of their second year. Sample elective courses: 

  • Law and Higher Education
  • Leading a School through Challenge and Crisis   
  • Race, Equity, and Leadership 
  • Teaching Exceptional Learners in Inclusive Classrooms 
  • Why Can’t Higher Education Change? 
  • Writing Workshop   

Note: Though some courses may include comparative and international examples, applicants should expect a focus on leadership within U.S. domestic educational institutions and systems. 

Leadership Core Competencies

To help you manage, lead, and implement change in complex organizations, our curriculum explores the core leadership competencies that you'll need to elevate your skills, knowledge, and expertise, wherever you are in your career. Throughout your coursework, you will strengthen your ability to:

  • Lead change and think strategically 
  • Foster productive organizational conditions 
  • Navigate politics and practice political inclusion
  • Communicate effectively 
  • Cultivate self-development and team professional development skills 

Higher Education Pathway

All students will choose between the Higher Education and PreK–12 Pathways. The Higher Education Pathway prepares you to be a dynamic leader in a diverse range of postsecondary education contexts. It is designed to increase your knowledge of the practices, policies, processes, challenges, and opportunities in American postsecondary education. You will enhance your repertoire of strategies and management skills for tackling critical issues and introducing change — while preparing you to advance in your current career or move into other important leadership roles in higher education.  

Sample courses for the Higher Education Pathway: 

  • Creating the Future of American Postsecondary Education 
  • Higher Education Leadership & Governance 
  • Student Affairs in Higher Education: Theory-Driven Practices to Help Students Thrive 

You will also have the opportunity to engage with accomplished leaders through HGSE’s unique President-in-Residence program. 

Students interested in the Higher Education Pathway currently hold administrative and mid-level leadership roles: 

  • Colleges and universities, including in academic affairs, student affairs, admissions and enrollment management, advancement, and institutional research
  • Nonprofit education organizations
  • State and federal government agencies 
  • Policy organizations focused on higher education

PreK–12 Pathway

All students will choose between the Higher Education and PreK–12 Pathways. The PreK–12 Pathway equips you to advance your leadership across the preK–12 landscape, including in such positions as teacher leader, principal, afterschool director, education agency representative, education nonprofit/philanthropic leader, or education entrepreneur.  

Sample courses for the PreK–12 Pathway: 

  • Strategic Leadership in the PreK–12 Ecosystem 
  • Creating Conditions for Effective School, Family, and Community Partnerships 
  • Leading Learning

Students interested in the PreK-12 Pathway currently hold administrative and mid-level leadership roles in:

  • PreK–12 schools, including as principals, assistant principals, and department heads
  • Nonprofit education organizations (I.e., foundations, advocacy organizations, technical assistant organizations).
  • Policy organizations focused on preK–12 education 

Projected Time Commitment

Courses combine synchronous meetings and asynchronous work and assignments. Live or synchronous aspects of required courses will occur on weekdays (Monday–Friday) between 6 and 9 p.m. ET . Some elective courses, outside the required curriculum, may be offered at alternative times. On average, this degree requires 12 to 18 hours of work per week, though the weekly commitment will vary by term, courses taken, and students' own work styles. Students can expect to spend approximately five to seven hours per week in synchronous online class sessions with faculty members and classmates. The remaining hours will be spent working independently on asynchronous class preparation, in self-scheduled small-group work with other students or working on assignments. 

Weekly Time Estimate

To complete the online Ed.M. in Education Leadership, students must complete 42 total credit hours of coursework over the two-year program. While the weekly time commitment varies, the graphic below provides a snapshot of the estimated weekly time commitment students may experience during the fall and spring semesters, when they will typically take 8 credits, the equivalent of two courses . 

Synchronous

Includes live, scheduled sessions with faculty members and other students.

Asynchronous

Self-paced activities, discussion posts, and other course-related work.

Assignments

Readings, projects, papers, research, etc.

Total Estimated Weekly Hours

Hours reflect estimates and vary by term, course, and student work style.

Occurs between Monday-Friday, according to a specific schedule.

Asynchronous work and assignments will have clear deadlines or milestones, but students can set their own schedules to complete this work. Note that there may be days or weeks during the semester that are busier than average, requiring more than the estimated time shown.

Program Faculty

The faculty co-chair for the Higher Education Pathway is Francesca Purcell . The faculty co-chair for the PreK–12 Pathway is Irvin Scott .

Faculty Co-Chairs

Francesca Purcell

Francesca Purcell

Francesca Purcell is a specialist in higher education policy and practice, with expertise on topics including college completion, student transfer, and developmental education.

Irvin Scott

Irvin Leon Scott

A former teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, chief academic officer, and foundation leader, Irvin Scott's focus is on education leadership and faith-based education.

James P. Honan

James Honan

Karen L. Mapp

online education masters programs

Timothy Patrick McCarthy

Timothy McCarthy

Mary Grassa O'Neill

Mary Grassa O'Neill

Alexis Redding

Alexis Redding

On-Campus Experience

Prior to kicking off your first fall semester, you will participate in the On-Campus Institute, an immersive experience on the HGSE campus in Cambridge. This will provide the opportunity to not only form deep relationships with your cohort, but also learn together with the faculty and advisers with whom you will spend two years. The immersive residential experience is a core component to the two-year degree program that is required of all students in the program. 

Over several days in late July and/or early August, you and your fellow peers will discuss your professional experiences and examine some of the persistent challenges in your organizations. You will immerse yourself in rich exercises and community building, set expectations of what it means to be in a rigorous HGSE degree program, and set intentions for yourself, your cohort, and your course of study. 

Career Pathways

The Master's in Education Leadership Program prepares you to advance to a senior leadership role in a variety of career pathways, including:

  • Academic affairs 
  • Admissions and financial aid
  • Development
  • Diversity, equity, and inclusion
  • Institutional research
  • Student affairs

PreK-12 Pathway

  • Education entrepreneur
  • Executive director for an education nonprofit
  • Principal* or head of school 
  • Program officer for a foundation 
  • School department head
  • School designer and developer
  • School district or network leader
  • Teacher leader

Overall Program

  • Education nonprofit CEO/COO 
  • Educational advocate and organizer 
  • Entrepreneur 

*Note: This program is not able to provide principal certification at this time.

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DEGREES & PROGRAMS

Master's in education degrees designed to help you make a difference, master of science in education programs.

An online master's degree for current teachers looking to move into a...

An online master's degree for current teachers looking to move into a school or district leadership position, like principal, vice principal, or administrator.

  • Time:  60% of grads earned this degree within 23 months.
  • Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
  • Courses: 13 total courses in this program.

This program is for licensed teachers who are ready to take the next step in their education career.

Skills for your résumé included in this program:

  • School Financial Leadership
  • People & Talent
  • School Operations and Management
  • Leadership Ethics

Put your leadership skills to good use—in the service of America's children—with this education master's degree. 

States that do not accept this program: Alabama, Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, and Minnesota.

An online master's degree for those who have educational experience and...

An online master's degree for those who have educational experience and are looking to further their careers with a graduate program focused on curriculum development and design.

  • Time: 62% of students earn this degree within 12 months.
  • Tuition:  $3,975 per 6-month term.
  • Courses: 10 total courses in this program.
  • Differentiated Instruction
  • Curriculum and Instruction Design
  • Educational Research

Help schools create engaging, meaningful, and memorable learning experiences to improve learning outcomes for all students with this M.S. degree.

The M.Ed. in Education Technology and Instructional Design from WGU is for...

The M.Ed. in Education Technology and Instructional Design from WGU is for instructional designers tasked with creating engaging and immersive virtual learning experiences that can substitute for on-ground instruction.

No teaching license required.

  • Time: 62% of students finish this program in 10 months.
  • Tuition:  $3,975 per 6-month term
  • Courses:  12 total courses in this program.

This program includes two tracks for students to choose from:

  • The K-12 pathway
  • The Adult Learner pathway
  • Learning Experience Design
  • Assessment and Learning Analytics
  • Learning Technology
  • Research Methodology

Develop training and instruction expertise to help you in the classroom, in educational settings, or in corporate world.

M.A. in Education Program | For Licensed Teachers

Mathematics Education (K–6) – M.A.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in...

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching math to elementary school students.

  • Time: 61% of students earn this degree within 12 months.
  • Tuition: $3,975   per 6-month term.

This program is for current teachers who are looking to add K-6 math education to their license.

  • Number Sense and Functions
  • Geometry and Statistics
  • Research Design

Focus your teaching passion on instilling in elementary-age students a love of math with this education master's degree.

English Language Learning (PreK–12) – M.A.

An online master's degree for current teachers whose next career goal...

An online master's degree for current teachers whose next career goal includes a focus on teaching in ELL or ESL settings.

  • Time: 62% of students earn this degree within 17 months.
  • Courses: 11 total courses in this program.

This program is for current teachers who are looking to add ELL or ESL to their license.

  • Assessment Theory and Practice
  • Language Production, Theory and Acquisition
  • Instruction Planning and Implementation
  • Theories of Second Language Acquisition

Grow your teaching career on a commitment to ensuring language barriers don't become a barrier to learning with this education master's degree.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching science to middle school students.

Available in all states that offer a middle-grades general science endorsement.

  • Time: 63% of students earned this degree within 18 months.
  • Courses: 14 total courses in this program.

This program is for currently licensed teacher who want to add middle-grades science to their license.

  • Earth science
  • Space science

Propel your career as a middle school or junior high science teacher with this M.A. degree.

Mathematics Education (Middle Grades) – M.A.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching math to middle school students. Available in states that offer a middle-grades math teaching endorsement.

  • Time: 62% of students earn this degree within 16 months.
  • Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.

This program is designed for current teachers who are looking to add middle grade math to their license.

  • College algebra
  • Finite mathematics
  • Trigonometry and pre-calculus
  • Mathematics learning and teaching
  • College geometry
  • Probability and statistics 

Focus your teaching passion on instilling in junior high students a love of math with this education master's degree.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching chemistry to middle or high school students.

  • Time:  64% of students earn this degree within 18 months.
  • Tuition:  $3,975 per 6-month term.
  • General Chemistry
  • Physical Chemistry
  • Inorganic Chemistry
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Biochemistry

Propel your career as a junior high or high school chemistry teacher with this education master's degree.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching math to middle and high school students.

  • Time: 64% of students earn this degree within 18 months.
  • Courses: 18 total courses in this program.

This program is designd for current teachers who are looking to add secondary math to their license.

  • Probability and statistics
  • Algebra for secondary mathematics teaching
  • Mathematics history and technology
  • Mathematical modeling and applications

Focus your teaching passion on instilling in junior high or high school students a love of math with this education master's degree.

Science Education (Secondary Earth Science) – M.A.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching earth science to middle or high school students.

  • Time:  60% of students earn this degree within 14 months.
  • Courses : 12 total courses in this program.

This program is designed for already-licensed teachers who want to add secondary earth science to their license.

  • Physical Geology
  • Earth Systems
  • Ocean Systems

Propel your career as a junior high or high school geoscience teacher with this education master's degree.

Science Education (Secondary Biological Science) – M.A.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching biology to middle or high school students.

  • Time:  62% of students earn this degree within 17 months.
  • Tuition:  $3,975   per 6-month term.

This program is designed for already-licensed teachers who want to add secondary biology to their license.

  • Human Anatomy and Physiology
  • Molecular and Cellular Biology
  • Heredity and Genetics

Propel your career as a junior high or high school biology teacher with this education master's degree.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching physics to middle or high school students.

  • Time:  62% of students earn this degree within 15 months.
  • Courses : 13 total courses in this program.

This program is designed for already-licensed teachers who wish to add secondary physics to their licensure.

  • Waves and optics
  • Electricity and magnetism
  • Space, time and motion

Propel your career as a junior high or high school physics teacher with this education master's degree.

M.A. in Teaching | Leading to Teacher Licensure

An online master's of arts in education degree and teacher certification...

An online master's of arts in education degree and teacher certification program for aspiring elementary school teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.

Leads to a teaching license. Specific grade levels will vary depending on teaching certification in your state.

  • Time:  64% of students finish within 24 months.
  • Courses : 24 total courses in this program (25 for Washington residents)
  • Lesson Planning
  • Behavioral Support Strategies
  • Educational Psychology & Development
  • Classroom Management

This online teacher's degree requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching.

An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for...

An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle school math teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.

Leads to teacher licensure. Specific grade levels will vary depending on licensure in your state.

  • Time: 61% of students finish this middle school math teaching degree within 24 months.
  • Courses: 20 total courses in this program (21 for Washington residents).
  • Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
  • Educational Psychology
  • Algebra for Secondary Mathematics Teaching
  • Mathematics History
  • Essential Practices for Supporting Diverse Learners

This M.A. Teaching program in middle grades math education requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. It differs from the M.A. Teaching, Mathematics Education (Secondary) program in that it does not require courses in upper levels of calculus, including advanced calculus and mathematical modeling. The curriculum of this online math degree is designed to prepare middle school math teachers for success.

An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle school or high school math teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.

Leads to teacher licensure. Specific grade levels will vary depending on the teaching certification in your state.

  • Time: 64% of students finish this high school math teaching degree within 25 months.
  • Courses: 21 total courses in this program (22 for Washington residents).
  • Algebra for Secondary Teaching
  • Geometry for Secondary Teaching
  • Statistics and Probability for Secondary Teaching

This online teaching degree in secondary math education requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. This program differs from the M.A. Teaching, Mathematics Education (Middle Grades) program in that it includes courses in upper levels of calculus, including advanced calculus and mathematical modeling. Graduates from this secondary math degree program will be eligible for a teaching license in any of the 50 states.

An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle or high school English teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.

  • Time: 63% of students finish this online English degree program within 21 months.
  • Courses: 17 total courses in this program.
  • English Pedagogy
  • Reading Instruction and Interventions
  • Disciplinary Literacy

This online English degree prepares students for teaching certification in any of the 50 states.

An online master's teaching degree and teacher certification program for...

An online master's teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle or high school science teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.

  • Time: 62% of students finish this secondary science teaching degree within 24 months.
  • Courses: 18 total courses in this program (19 for Washington residents)
  • Science Technology
  • Science Methods

This program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. You'll be prepared to teach in middle school or high school settings, based on teaching certification in your state.

Teaching, Special Education (K–12) – M.A.

An online master's degree for current or aspiring teachers looking to...

An online master's degree for current or aspiring teachers looking to further their careers with a focus on K–12 special education.

  • Time:  64% of students finish similar programs in 22 months.
  • Courses: 26 total courses in this program.

This program is ideal for students who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field and are looking to earn their initial teaching license.

  • Professional, Ethical and Legal Guidelines in Special Education
  • Management Strategies for Academic and Social Behavior
  • Assessment and Evaluation
  • Methods of Instruction and Intervention

Find a rewarding career teaching students with diverse challenges and special learning abilities with this teaching master's degree.

Online Endorsement Program

English Language Learning (PreK–12) Endorsement Prep

An online program for currently licensed elementary and secondary school...

An online program for currently licensed elementary and secondary school teachers who desire to be licensed to teach in ELL or ESL settings.

Become highly qualified in ELL or ESL, increase your career opportunities, earn re-licensure points, and possibly become eligible for lane changes leading to increased salary.

  • Time: 62% of students finish within 13 months.
  • Courses: 8 total courses in this program.

This program is for current teachers who are looking to earn an ELL/ESL endorsement.

Advance your teaching career and help ensure language barriers don't become a barrier to learning.

WGU’s Teachers College provides a path for students to become licensed/certified teachers in each U.S. state and territory. In some cases, our program has already been approved for direct licensure/certification in your state. In other cases, you may apply for licensure/certification through reciprocity. Your Enrollment Counselor can give you specific information on your program of interest and how you may ultimately earn a license in your state. Please note that some programs do not have a corresponding license in certain states.

Learn about Master of Science in Education Degrees

A Master of Science (M.S.) in Education degree program can be a great option for current teachers hoping to move into leadership roles, or for those hoping to move into curriculum roles.

Learn about Master of Arts in Teaching Degrees

If you have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field, a Master of Arts in Teaching can help you get the education licensure you need for classroom credentials. Learn more about these types of programs.

Learn about Adding to Your Teaching License

If you're a current teacher looking to add to your license, a master's degree can help you get additional specialties and move into other teaching areas. Learn more about how these programs could work for your career goals.

EDUCATION MASTER'S DEGREES

Online master of education degrees for current or aspiring teachers.

An educator is also a lifelong learner. A master's degree, such as a master of science, or endorsement from an accredited university can help you build a career in K–12 education where you can make a huge difference in students' lives. It can also help you move into instructional or training careers outside the classroom.

For current teachers, academic advancement with a graduate degree, such as a master of science program, can help you specialize your career and may qualify you for a salary increase or lane change. At WGU, there are several academic options to choose from.

For professionals in a non-teaching career who have a bachelor's degree but want to move into a teaching career, an Master's of Arts in Teaching could be the path you're looking for.

We offer master's degrees for currently licensed teacher s looking to add to their license and Master of Arts in Education (M.Ed.) or Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) degrees for those looking to advance their corporate or academic career.

Future Teachers Can Earn a Teaching License Through an Online Master's in Education

A career change to become a teacher can be a professionally and personally fulfilling move to make. But it can also seem like a daunting change—especially if you already have a bachelor's degree in your field and don't want to start from scratch.

You don't have to start over. You can begin your path to educational leadership in the classroom now.

An M.A. in Teaching degree, different from the Master of Science in Education degree program, can be your path. Designed for aspiring teachers who have a bachelor's degree but no teaching license, these programs are a faster path to your teaching certificate.

No bachelor's degree yet? Check out our academic programs for undergrad teacher-preparation.

Teacher Certification

Online. nonprofit. affordable.™, accredited, respected, recognized™.

online education masters programs

The WGU Teachers College is the first competency-based online university to receive accreditation for its degree programs that lead to teacher licensure from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). CAEP is the only recognized national accreditor for educator preparation.

online education masters programs

The teacher licensure programs offered through the WGU Teachers College have been awarded full accreditation by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) through June 30, 2026. Full accreditation acknowledges that a program prepares effective educators who continue to grow as professionals and that the program has demonstrated the commitment and capacity to continue to do so.

online education masters programs

WGU is a top conferrer of STEM degrees that is partnered with Beyond100K. WGU joins nonprofits, government agencies, companies, and foundations to combat challenges and prepare more teachers for STEM teaching positions nationwide.

Earn a Graduate Degree on a Teacher's Salary

As a nonprofit organization, WGU provides a convenient, cost-effective path to your master’s degree in education or endorsement. Tuition for degree programs in the School of Education is about $3,975 per six-month term— about half what you’d pay at other universities .*

Low tuition is just the start! Tuition is charged at a flat rate each 6-month term, regardless of how many courses you complete during that term. The standard term is based upon a full course load—at least 8 competency units (credit equivalents) for post-baccalaureate and master’s students. Individual progress may vary. Because you can accelerate through material you already know well or learn quickly—finishing more courses in a term without paying extra—you could end up saving even more.

*WGU average annual bachelor’s tuition rates are 48% lower than the national average, compared to national rates reported by the  Integrated Postsecondary Education Data Systems in 2022 . WGU average rate does not include rates for WGU Bachelor of Science, Nursing Prelicensure program.

online education masters programs

COMPETENCY-BASED EDUCATION

Competency:  Demonstrated knowledge, skill, or ability required to advance in a degree program.

At WGU, course competencies are defined by an expert council, including employers.

online education masters programs

AT YOUR OWN PACE

At WGU, you are in charge of setting the pace. Spend time on areas where you need more understanding and accelerate in subjects where you already have knowledge.

online education masters programs

Master Your Future

A master’s degree in business can give your career a boost. Plus, 95% of employers said they would hire another WGU grad.* If you apply now, you can take advantage of the Master Your Future scholarship. This scholarship awards recipients $2,500 ($625 per six-month term for up to four terms). With tuition under $4,500, this makes your dream career even more affordable.

* 2022 Harris Poll

For Current Teachers, a Master’s Degree Can Take You to the Next Level

Already a teacher? Imagine reaching the next level of your profession. Through one of WGU's online master’s teaching degree programs, you can put yourself in an excellent position to enhance your professional prestige, educational leadership, and earning potential. You’ll develop specialized skills and knowledge in a high-demand field and become a curricular and academic leader in your school.

You’ve worked to mold the futures of your students for years. Isn’t it time you thought about your own future?

Earning your master’s degree in education from the Teachers College at Western Governors University helps you secure a better future online, on your schedule, and on your budget. You’ll start seeing the benefits immediately.

A master’s degree often means an increased salary, job security, and retirement benefits. You’ll also notice an immediate improvement in your teaching skills. You’ll be able to reach your students in new ways and maximize the academic impact of every lesson. Your specialized knowledge and skills will not only benefit you, but also benefit your students and the school districts in which you teach.

What Teachers Are Saying About WGU

See why teachers are finding WGU to be a good choice to advance their education careers.

online education masters programs

"Coming back to get my master's degree after obtaining my bachelor's degree from WGU was the absolute best thing I could have done. I never dreamed before obtaining my bachelor's that I would get a master's degree, but WGU was such an amazing experience I was excited to continue."

—Tammie Montgomery M.S. Curriculum and Instruction

online education masters programs

"What I got during my education at WGU was so current and I could actually transfer it right away into what I was teaching. It wasn’t like I had to wait until my education was over so I could start applying it.”

—Elizabeth Pendas M.A. Mathematics Education

Five stars

See Wendy's story

"I've always been self-motivated, so working at my own pace to earn my master's degree was a perfect fit."

—Wendy Former journalist, who felt a call to become a teacher

Frequently Asked Questions about the Master's in Education Degrees

What's the difference between an master's in education (m.ed.) and a master of arts in teaching (mat).

When choosing an education master's program it's important to determine your career goals. If you want to become a licensed teacher, or if you're a current teacher and you want to expand your license, a Master of Arts in Teaching will be the right master's program for you. If you want to work in curriculum, leadership, administration, or other elements of education, a Master's of Arts in Education or a Master of Education will be the best master's program for you.

Should you earn your Master's in Education online?

For many students an online master's in education program is the ideal fit for their needs. An online program often allows you to continue working at your full-time job, giving you crucial flexibility, while also helping you earn an accredited and respected degree.

What specializations are offered with a master's in education degree?

Online master's degrees in education offer a wide variety of specialties. Some include:

  • MAT programs for elementary education
  • MAT programs for secondary education
  • MAT programs for specific subjects like math, English, or science
  • MEd programs in curriculum or instruction
  • MS programs in educational leadership

What can you do with a master's degree in education?

You can utilize a master's degree in education for many career paths, including:

  • Elementary school teacher
  • Special education teacher
  • Middle school or high school teacher
  • Vice principal
  • Superintendent
  • Curriculum developer
  • Learning experience designer
  • Instructional coordinator
  • Learning technology expert

Is a master's in education worth it?

An online master's in education program can allow you to change or further your career—in the education field degree programs are often required for you to be eligible for certain jobs, so having that credential on your résumé is vital.

What is the best master's degree to get in education?

The best master's in education program for you will depend on your career goals. If you want to get a license to teach, MAT programs will be ideal. If you want to work in education leadership, a master's degree with that specialization will be the best fit. If you want to work on curriculum and training, there are MEd programs and MSEd programs that can help you get where you need to go. 

What are the different master's degrees in education?

Generally there are three master's in education degree programs to choose from:

  • Master of Arts in Teaching
  • Master of Arts in Education
  • Master of Science in Education
  • Master of Education

There are pros and cons for each type of degree programs—the main focus should be on which program will help you reach your specific career goals.

How long does it take to earn a master's in education?

Most traditional master's in education programs will take 2 years to complete. Online master's in education programs often give you the option to accelerate—for example WGU students often finish their master's in education programs in approximately 18 months.

What comes after a master's degree in education?

If you want to continue your schooling after completing a master's program, a doctoral program is usually the next step. This can allow you to move higher on the education career ladder, teach post-secondary courses, and more.

What is a master's degree in education?

Master of Education degree programs, often called M.Ed programs, are graduate level programs typically focused on preparing students for education careers that do not focus on teaching. These programs can prepare you for roles in administration, instructional technology, or curriculum planning and design, and more.

Is a master's in education a good degree?

For those involved in academics, including teachers that want to advance their careers, completing a master’s in education can be just the thing you need. In most districts a master’s degree in education can lead to higher salaries, and opportunities to move into administrative or leadership roles in your school or district. 

Is M.A. in Education equivalent to M.Ed.?

A Master of Arts in Education and a Master of Education degree are often terms used interchangeably. Sometimes there may be distinctions between these two types of programs, but often they are similar or the same.

What is the purpose of a master's in education?

The Master's of Education is an advanced degree for people who already have teaching experience. An M.Ed. allows the student to enhance their knowledge of education with respect to such areas as curriculum development, counselor education, or educational administration.

How many years is a master's degree in education?

The duration of master’s degrees varies depending on the institution that offers the degree program. In most cases a master’s degree in education requires approximately two years to complete, however, at WGU, competency based learning program allows you to use your current knowledge to move more quickly through your degree program.

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Education Leadership (online)

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Graduate Program

The Master’s in Education (Ed.M.) prepares students with the skills needed to change the world through education. The online Master’s in Education Leadership is a part-time, two-year Ed.M. program from the Harvard Graduate School of Education with Higher Education and PreK-12 pathways. The program is specifically designed for working education professionals who bring at least seven years of relevant or transferrable work experience. Through this program, students will strengthen the invaluable skills they’ve already developed and develop the tools to propel themselves to new leadership opportunities and to even greater impact.

Master’s Programs in Education

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Additional Information

  • Download the Master's Viewbook

As you embrace the next chapter in your development as an educator, innovator, and leader, consider a graduate program that builds on a century of innovation, that’s grounded in the skills every educator needs, and that fully supports your current work and future aspirations.

At the Harvard Graduate School of Education, our master’s degree program is driven by passion and empowered by evidence. We share a vision of education where every learner has an opportunity to be seen, to be challenged, to excel, and to reach their full potential. We are motivated by urgency to build a future that recognizes and overcomes grinding systemic inequities.

Whether you seek to make an impact in early education, in K–12 districts and networks, or in higher education — or whether you want to drive educational change outside of those realms — you belong at HGSE. 

No matter which program you choose, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with HGSE’s world-class faculty, build a sustained community of practice and a lifelong professional network, and gain the preparation necessary to grow, advance, and become the type of leader that education needs.

The Harvard Graduate School of Education offers the Master's in Education (Ed.M.) degree in two formats —  residential and online — and in a variety of programs.

Residential Master's

HGSE’s  on-campus master’s degree is a one-year, full-time, immersive Harvard experience. You'll apply directly to one of its five distinct programs, spanning education leadership and entrepreneurship, education policy, human development, teaching and teacher leadership, and learning design and technology. 

Online Master's

Our Online Master's in Education  is a part-time, two-year, online program in education leadership. It is designed for experienced professionals who want to advance in their careers and deepen their impact. The online program in education leadership offers a choice of two pathways, preK–12 or higher education, that complement your career and chosen area of impact.  

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25 Best Online Masters in Education Programs [2024 Guide]

Some scholarships may be offered by your prospective school, others by charitable groups, or government-supported programs.

Online Masters in Education Programs

If you value knowledge, inquiry, and learning, and like helping others, getting an online masters in education is a good way to open up a range of career options in a very dynamic field rich in human interactions and networks.

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If you already work as a teacher or educator, getting a master’s degree will usually allow you to get immediate pay raises or salary stipends and make you eligible for leadership roles.

While most educators share a sense of social mission, open-minded curiosity, and an altruistic nature, you’ll also find that jobs in education reflect unique roles and specializations.

Online Masters in Education Programs

Your online masters in education can help you launch or advance a career in teaching, school administration, early childhood education, instructional design, special education, English as a second language, or bilingual education.

Those working in education usually benefit from graduate programs, but also pursue specific specializations and state certifications based on their professional interests.

Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:

Early Childhood Education

Educational administration, elementary education, higher education, special education.

Exploring your options may help you determine which academic path is right for you.

Preschool teacher helping her students in art class

A masters in early childhood education can help give you the training you need to support programs for young children with proven, research-based practices.

In this field, you can explore fascinating theories of psychological development and identity formation. Your courses may include topics like how children develop moral beliefs, acquire language, or learn to read.

You can learn about common childhood challenges, disabilities, and developmental stages, and how to assess developmental progress and respond to special needs.

With a masters in education and a focus on early childhood education, you can launch a career working with younger children as a highly effective teacher, reading specialist, instructional coach, or ESL/Bilingual education specialist.

A masters degree can also help qualify you to work in early childhood program administration—leading programs and other educators in elementary schools, preschools, and childcare centers.

Instructional Coordinators working in an office

Whether at the K-12 level or postsecondary level, schools are actually very complex organizations. Perhaps you’ll want to focus on learning how to be a school leader.

School administrators promote robust communication links between staff, students, families, and community partners while helping give direction to complex planning challenges.

But that’s not all…They need to carry out the school mission and drive innovation amid layers of regulatory laws and policies governing instruction, hiring, budgets, equity, and special education rights and protections. Those outside the profession often fail to grasp just how challenging the job can be.

Getting a masters online degree in education with a concentration in school administration can be a great way to step into such a rewarding and challenging role with greater confidence. Your online master’s degree can be key in helping you qualify for administration and organizational leadership jobs, in both K-12 and higher education settings.

Elementary teacher helping her students in class

If you’re an elementary teacher, enrolling in an online education masters program can be a great way to move forward in your career. A master’s in education usually rewards K-8 teachers with salary increases or salary stipends, since most school districts link teacher compensation increases to continuing education.

Getting a Master of Education online can also help a teacher expand into new areas of teaching competency. For example, new subject matter competency or qualifying for a special education teacher certification.

School leaders also know that using teachers in peer-mentoring systems are a proven way to build organizational capacity in school settings, within sites and across larger school districts.

Teachers who take advanced college courses in instructional methods, curriculum design, assessment systems, and classroom management, are typically well qualified for these coaching and mentoring roles.

With your master’s degree in elementary education , you’re more likely to qualify for work as an instructional coordinator or curriculum specialist or transition to administrative roles with more confidence and success.

College teacher assisting her students in library

A masters program is almost indispensable for any teacher who wants to teach in higher education. An online masters in education can be a good way to get qualified to teach in a technical or vocational college or to teach foundational courses in four-year degree programs, or at community colleges.

Administrative jobs in higher education are also growing increasingly demanding and complex. Many factors today are creating new funding and enrollment challenges for colleges and universities.

Leading colleges today involves fundraising, legally and financially complex corporate research partnerships, navigating diversity and equity laws, free speech issues, budget cuts, and remote learning.

Colleges and universities can’t simply rely on tenured faculty to navigate these challenges. Today’s colleges need well trained, education-focused administrators.

With a masters degree, a concentration in higher education, and the right experience, you can pursue a career teaching at a number of postsecondary schools or in postsecondary school administration.

Special Education teacher teaching her students in music class

Assessing special needs students and providing appropriate support and intervention services are a central job of special education teachers.

A second aspect of the job is compliance with the complex laws and regulations that safeguard special needs students and ensure schools do everything possible to support their assimilation and success.

This means K-12 schools have an urgent need for skilled and dedicated special education teachers and special education coordinators.

If you have an interest in case management, behavior intervention, childhood and adolescent development, disability assessments, and coordinating with paraprofessional support providers, you may be able to provide schools and exceptional students with valuable support.

Online masters in education programs supporting special education licensure can be a great way to launch a life-time career in this crucial role. School districts are often eager to find qualified SPED specialists and retain them with good pay.

Masters in Education Careers & Salaries

online education masters programs

Master of Education online programs are well suited for educators who entered the field with a bachelor’s degree and want to boost their job qualifications and or seek promotion in the field.

Many school system contracts reward teachers with pay increases based on continuing education credits and for advanced degrees. For many educators, getting a masters in education online means an instant pay boost, even in their current job.

For those interested in entering the field or promoting into new job roles, online education masters programs can be a good first step for launching a career in school administration roles.

Combining your degree with prior teaching experience can be a great way to move from teaching into a role as a curriculum specialist or instructional coordinator. Finally, a masters in education may qualify you for district-level K-12 administration jobs and for opportunities in teaching or leadership positions at postsecondary institutions.

Online masters in education programs will usually introduce you to advanced research as well. This means an opportunity to explore options for an eventual career in education research related to instruction, leadership, or social policy.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , your online education master’s degree should help you qualify for or excel in a range of school-related occupations:

While a bachelor’s degree may suffice for some of these jobs, a master’s degree in education is typically required for the best paying jobs, will likely reward you with pay raises if you’re already in an education job, and can help you qualify for leadership positions.

Choosing an Online Master of Education Program

Since working in education involves curriculum design skills, administrative concentrations, and specializations based on subject areas and age-groups, you’ll want to choose an online masters in education aligned with well-defined career goals.

When you compare schools and programs, here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Access, flexibility, enrollment dates, and completion timelines
  • Whether the programs are hybrid learning or fully remote learning
  • How well the course outlines and areas of concentration offered match your professional interests and goals
  • If the program provides direct support for your completing any state-mandated licensure or certification requirements (for the jobs you’re pursuing)
  • If a master’s thesis is required or optional
  • If the program includes a practicum, field study, student teaching, or hands-on action research (and what these components require)
  • Whether the program and school are fully accredited
  • If the master’s program participates in a local or regional school-to-work network or coalition (or job pipeline)
  • If it’s better to attend a college in the state where you plan to work since many public school systems are shaped by state laws and licensing commissions

What you learn in your online graduate program is likely to be important for your success, so making sure the academic concentrations and resources align with your goals.

Masters in Education Curriculum & Courses

College teacher having a lecture

Whether it’s courses on social policy, a concentration in psychology, organizational leadership skills, or learning about ed-tech innovations, your education masters courses should cover a lot of ground!

Here’s a sample of the types of courses you’ll likely see in online education masters programs:

  • Social and Cultural Theories in Education : This course explores education as a value-laden social and cultural construct while analyzing competing theories of education.
  • Curriculum Supervision : This course gives aspiring education leaders knowledge and methods for assessing and monitoring curriculum goals and explores concepts for implementing fair and effective teacher evaluation systems.
  • Educational Equity : Learn about a range of instructional frameworks for helping ensure the success of all students—differentiated instruction, emotional intelligence, learning modalities, the influence of family, and cultural background.
  • Digital Classrooms : Learn about emerging educational technologies, including AR, VR, and AI, and their classroom applications, as you explore the intersection of technology innovation and instructional transformation.
  • Contemporary Pedagogy : Learn about instructional themes and models that go beyond or supplement traditional instructional formats: project-based learning, flipped classrooms, 21 st -century learning, and collaborative learning.
  • Organizational Leadership : Explore theories of organizational psychology and innovation-focused leadership for driving improvements to school systems and cultures.
  • Student Assessment : Students learn about different types of student assessment and where they fit into larger school improvement and instructional designs, including special education evaluations.
  • Education Administration : An overview of the rules, systems, and concepts needed to provide oversight of and accountability for staffing needs, professional development systems, budgets and spending, student services, school safety and emergency preparedness.
  • School Law and Policy : Learn the ins and outs of legal statues governing instructional minutes, free and public education mandates, student equity and privacy protections, federal special-education provisions, fair hiring practices, academic accountability measures, and student discipline codes and procedures.
  • Education Research : This course introduces students to a range of research resources, methods and standards, including action-research designs, for implementing evidence-based instructional practices and policies, for gauging the impact of existing practices, and for engaging in policy-oriented advocacy.

These courses make it easy to see why education is a fascinating field with a great need for people committed to pursuing ongoing professional learning in masters programs and beyond.

Admissions Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Education

In most cases having a bachelor’s degree will be required for admission into online masters in education programs. You’ll also need to provide GRE scores, if required. Some schools and programs may also want to see that applicants have some work history in education, usually as a credentialed teacher for several years.

Make sure you’re prepared to provide all undergraduate transcripts and evidence of a satisfactory college GPA (usually 3.0 or above) along with any required letters of recommendation.

Master’s Degree Accreditation

Online Masters in Education Programs Accreditation

We strongly recommend you select from fully accredited schools and programs. The accreditation process helps ensure academic quality and consistency. Accreditation also means other schools and prospective employers are more likely to honor your degree and your achievements.

A school gets accredited by passing periodic reviews by a recognized accreditation agency. An organization such as the Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) can help you learn more about accreditation and identify accredited schools.

Finally, if you’re focused on teacher preparation skills, you might want to check out CAEP as well (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation).

Financial Aid and Scholarships

financial aid for Masters in Education students

There are many types of financial aid to consider. There are federal student loan programs, work study programs, various forms of state aid, and a range of scholarships. Some scholarships may be offered by your prospective school, others by charitable groups, or government-supported programs.

Since federal loan programs, state aid, and some scholarship opportunities often require a demonstration of financial need, it’s always a good idea to fill out the free application for financial student aid ahead of time ( FAFSA ).

You may also find state or federal student loan forgiveness programs. These programs typically allow qualifying participants to pay off student debt more quickly based on years of service in the field. Finally, if you’re working in education already, you may be eligible for employer-based tuition assistance programs.

What Can You Do With a Masters in Education?

College Professor giving instructions to her students

A master’s in education online can help you move from a teaching job into a more senior role as a lead teacher, instructional coach, instructional coordinator, or curriculum design specialist.

You can also boost your expertise in such areas as special education, early childhood education, or ESL/Bilingual education. An online education master’s program can also a great way to get qualified to move from a teaching job to a role in school administration.

In fact, different online education masters programs offer unique concentrations in the field. If administration jobs interest you, there are programs that focus on school leadership, just as other programs offer a focus on curriculum design, special education, or public policy.

Education Curriculum designer working on her laptop

If you’re not already working in the field, a master’s degree can help you hit the ground running with knowledge that should help you quickly become an expert teacher with opportunities for rapid advancement if you desire.

If you’re looking for advancement in the field, remember that getting an advanced degree may boost your pay, even in your present job. Finally, you’re likely to need mandatory state certifications or licenses, in addition to your college degrees, for most education jobs.

How Much Does a Masters Degree in Education Cost?

Tuition costs vary significantly by school. You can expect to pay between $350 and $1,200 per credit hour in online masters in education programs. A masters program typically requires between 30 and 36 credit hours.

School admissions officers will often be able to help you understand costs involved in your online program. Remember to weigh the costs of your online degree program against your anticipated earnings over many years of future employment and to look for fully accredited schools.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Masters Degree in Education?

Masters Degree in Education student researching online

In most cases, anticipate it will take you about two years to complete a Master of Education online program. You should find online programs offering accelerated study timelines too. Some programs, such as one year online masters in education programs , may allow you to finish in as little as 12 to 17 months on an 8 week semester with year-round continuous enrollment.

Keep in mind that many masters in education online programs will also require a research thesis. For capstone projects like a thesis, individual completion times may vary. Finally, if you’re in a program that includes a field study or teaching practicum component, be sure to include that step, if necessary, when estimating your time to completion.

Are There Any Affordable Online Masters in Education Programs?

Masters Degree in Education student studying at home

More affordable online Masters in Education programs offer tuition rates between $300 and $500 per credit hour. If you’re shopping for more competitive tuition rates, we recommend you still take care to choose a fully accredited school and master’s degree program.

Finally, taking advantage of in-state tuition rates or special e-tuition rates for online students, regardless of your state of residence.

Are There Any Online Masters in Education No GRE Programs?

GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) scores are part of admission’s requirements for many master’s degree programs, but certainly not all. Some students prefer to avoid the time, preparation, and costs involved with providing prospective schools with GRE scores (often required with application packets).

If you’re one of those students, it’s true you’ll have to exclude some schools from your list, but you’ll still find many schools that offer “no GRE” or “test optional” admissions. If you feel flexible in your choice of schools, it’s possible you’ll find a no GRE online masters in education program that fits your needs and professional goals.

How Many Credits for a Masters Degree in Education to Complete the Program?

Education Curriculum Planner working in her offcie

Most online masters in education programs will typically require between 30 and 36 credit hours for completion. Many programs will also require students submit a thesis or complete some other capstone project.

There may also be optional or required field study or practicum activities involved in completing your online masters in education. Finally, many education jobs will require state-governed licensure or certification as well.

What Can I Do With a Masters in Education Besides Teach?

There are many ways to support schools outside of traditional teaching jobs. For most non-teaching jobs, though, prior teaching experience is usually an important requirement. Job pre-requisites may vary by state too, based on guidelines or policies issued by state boards or commissions related to public schools, both K-12 or postsecondary.

Most teachers who have completed a master’s degree and are ready for new horizons and challenges will apply for a principal or assistant principal role, seek to lead curriculum planning, help with peer coaching, or work as instructional specialists.

Sometimes teachers can “learn-on-the-job” by taking a “special assignment” within their district. These assignments usually help fill a short-term personnel gap and provide ready opportunities for successful teachers to try on more advanced roles.

By moving into a special assignment—taking on an administration role, assisting with curriculum supervision, or mentoring other teachers—you can learn new skills that help qualify you for long-term promotions.

Is a Masters in Education Worth It?

College teacher helping her student in the library

Yes, a masters in education is worth it for many students. In education, training, and library field, jobs are projected to grow at a rate of 5% in the next 10 years (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Common careers for people with an education masters include teacher, instructional coordinator, K-12 principal, K-12 teacher, postsecondary teacher, and postsecondary education administrator.

For many teachers, an online masters in education will also qualify them for immediate salary increases or additional salary stipends. By combining successful teaching experience with an education masters, you’ll also position yourself for more dynamic professional growth going forward.

Universities Offering Online Master’s in Education Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

California State University - Fullerton campus

California State University – Fullerton offers both master’s and doctoral degrees in education.

Four of its Master of Science in Education programs are offered entirely online including the M.S. in Elementary Curriculum and Instruction, M.S. in Educational Technology, and M.S. in Education degrees with concentrations in secondary education or special education.

California State University – Fullerton  is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

Clemson University campus

The Master of Education in Literacy program at Clemson University provides students with in-depth knowledge of all aspects of literacy including curriculum, research, strategies, process and theories.

Graduates should be able to plan appropriate literacy programs and curricula and communicate information effectively to students of all ages and their families.

Clemson University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Columbia International University campus

Students in Columbia International University’s Master of Education program can choose from concentrations in either instruction and learning or educational administration. Both tracks help students cultivate exceptional educational leadership skills.

Students should also learn to apply biblical educational theories to teaching, create nurturing school environments, and possess effective research techniques.

CIU  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Florida International University campus

The Master of Science in Educational Leadership program at Florida International University requires 39 credits to complete, doesn’t require applicants to take the GRE and can be completed in 16 months.

Common courses include leadership in education, instructional leadership, school personnel administration, foundations of educational research, and other leadership-related courses.

Florida International University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Lamar University campus

Lamar University’s Master of Education in Teacher Leadership degree program allows students to select from two concentrations: English as a second language or gifted and talented.

Both tracks are non-thesis degrees that blend the in-depth research, standard coursework, and hands-on experience needed for educators to become masters in their fields.

Lamar University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Michigan State University campus

Michigan State University’s Master of Arts in Education program is one of the nation’s oldest online education programs. There are six concentrations from which students can choose.

They are special education, technology and learning, literacy education, sport coaching and leadership, science and mathematics education, and P-12 school and post-secondary leadership.

MSU  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

North Carolina State University campus

North Carolina State University offers several, 100% online Master of Education degrees in a variety of fields. These include, but aren’t limited to, training and development, various STEM degrees, school counseling, learning design and technology, elementary education, and community college teaching.

The school is affordable, and financial aid is available for qualified students.

North Carolina State University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Northeastern University campus

Students interested in education at Northeastern University can select online master’s programs in either special education, higher education administration, eLearning and instructional design or learning and instruction. All programs are offered either part-time or full-time and can be completed in two years or less. Courses vary based on the program.

Northeastern University  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Nova Southeastern University campus

The Master of Science in Education program at Nova Southeastern University has eight concentrations from which students can choose. These include selecting specific subjects (math, reading, science, Spanish), elementary education, exceptional student education, and curriculum and instruction.

The school also offers a Master of Science in Educational Leadership program.

NSU  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Purdue University campus

Purdue University offers four different Master of Science programs in educational-related fields. These include curriculum and instruction, applied behavior analysis, special education, and learning design and theory.

Core courses focus on researching educational trends, best practices for educators, and educational leadership. Required credits for completion range between 30 and 45.

Purdue University  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

San Diego State University campus

Students enrolled in San Diego State University’s Master of Arts in Teacher Leadership program can potentially graduate in as few as 12 months. The program is designed for current educators looking to take on leadership roles within their schools that’ll allow them to educate other teachers in addition to students.

San Diego State  is accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission.

University of Alabama Birmingham campus

University of Alabama – Birmingham offers multiple Master of Education degree programs and two Master of Science programs in education-related fields. All nine of the programs are offered online but may require students to visit the UAB campus sporadically. GRE scores are required for entrance into most of these programs.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Central Florida campus

The Master of Education in Exceptional Student Education program at University of Central Florida is perfect for educators hoping to work specifically with special needs students. The program is designed for current educators looking to move into special needs positions such as literacy coaches, autistic teachers, or speech and audio therapists.

The  University of Central Florida  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Colorado Denver campus

University of Colorado – Denver offers a Master of Arts in Literacy Education program that features a concentration in reading and writing and has an additional reading teacher (K-12) endorsement included with it. The curriculum is designed to help educators become masters of oral language, reading, writing, and other English-related fields.

The University of Colorado – Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Georgia campus

There are several Master of Education (M.Ed.) programs at the University of Georgia including programs in reading education, workforce education, design & technology, instructional design & development, and two educational psychology programs with different concentrations.

The curriculum varies depending on the program, and the school does not charge out-of-state tuition.

The  University of Georgia  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign campus

Students interested in the Master of Education program at University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign have several subject areas from which to choose. The school offers bilingual and bi-cultural degrees, digital learning degrees, and six other education degrees.

Each program seeks to ensure teachers are exceptionally knowledgeable in their specific subject areas.

The  University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of San Diego campus

University of San Diego’s Master of Education program allows students to choose from five different concentrations: STEM, curriculum and instruction, literacy and digital learning, school leadership and inclusive learning: special education and universal design.

Each concentration requires courses in social justice, educational equity, educational research methodology and cognition and learning.

USD is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

University of South Carolina campus

There are several education-focused graduate programs at the University of South Carolina at both the master’s and doctoral levels. Whether students are interested in educational administration, physical education, STEM education, or language and literacy, USC has them covered.

Coursework is designed to mirror the high-quality work required of on campus students.

The  University of South Carolina is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of South Florida campus

Students at the University of South Florida have several options when it comes to education master’s programs including Master of Education, Master of Science, Master of Arts and Education Specialist programs in various concentrations.

Some of these programs are offered entirely online, others in hybrid format. Financial aid is available for qualified students.

USF  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Southern California campus

The University of Southern California offers five master’s level programs and three doctoral programs in the field of education all online. The programs are all designed for current teachers, counselors, and other educators looking to improve their teaching skills and cultivate leadership skills to become effective leaders in their schools.

USC is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

University of St Thomas campus

The University of St. Thomas offers several Master of Arts (M.A.) programs in education, educational studies, special education and educational leadership. Each of these programs is further broken down into more specific areas of concentration. Both the M.A. in Education and the M.A. in Special Education can lead to licensure.

The  University of St. Thomas  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of the Cumberlands campus

The Master of Education Administration program at University of the Cumberlands has NCATE accreditation and adheres to all standards set by the CAEP. It doesn’t lead to licensure, but it designed to provide licensed professionals with a deeper understanding of the knowledge, skills and dispositions needed to become the best educators possible.

The University of the Cumberlands  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Webster University campus

Webster University’s Master of Arts in Education and Innovation program seeks to turn educators into lifelong learners, global citizens, and leaders in curriculum design and education. A premium is placed on collaboration, real-world problem solving, and educational technology implementation.

Graduates should be prepared to become team leaders and learning facilitators.

Webster University  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

West Texas AM University campus

Students in West Texas A & M University’s Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction program will take many courses in curriculum theory and history, multicultural education and human development. The program requires 36 total credit hours for completion, and students will take a comprehensive exam in their last semesters.

West Texas A&M University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Wilmington University campus

The College of Education at Wilmington University offers several online certificate, undergraduate, and graduate programs in education.

Some of the programs being offered at the master’s level include programs in higher education, special education, applied technology, school leadership, reading, and school counseling. There are both licensure and non-licensure tracks available.

Wilmington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Getting Your Masters in Education Online

Masters in Education student studying online

In today’s fast-changing society there’s tremendous pressure on schools to modernize and adapt. Both K-12 education and postsecondary institutions are facing dynamic change pressures at the intersections of social policy, technology, and economic transformations.

In your online masters in education program, you can learn lessons gleaned from decades of school reform successes and failures…and then you may be asked to help build the schools of tomorrow while serving the students who count on you today. Are you up for the challenge?

online education masters programs

Find the Best Online Master's Degrees

Earning a master's degree online can help professionals get ahead in their career or change fields. Whether an MBA, a master's degree in education or a Master of Science in information technology, online degrees allow students to balance the pursuit of a higher education with a full-time job.

Best Online MBA Programs

An online master's degree in business can equip students with the leadership skills vital for career advancement. Many programs offer opportunities to network with classmates and business leaders.

Bloomington, IN

Pittsburgh, PA

Chapel Hill, NC

Los Angeles, CA

Seattle, WA

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What Current Online Graduate Students Say

Bonnie Botello, Colorado State University, class of 2026, Ph.D. in systems engineering.

Brian J. Stumm , Colorado State University, class of 2027, Doctor of Engineering in systems engineering.

Cole Brooks , Auburn University, class of 2023, master of engineering management.

Best Online Master's in Engineering Programs

An online master’s in electrical, civil or mechanical engineering can allow students to delve deeper into their field and potentially expand their job prospects.

Malvern, PA

West Lafayette, IN

online education masters programs

Best Online Master's in Nursing Programs

Thanks to the growth of online nursing degree programs, students can advance their careers in one of the most in-demand health care professions. Many programs include a clinical component, often on campus or at a facility near a student's home.

Columbia, SC

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Chicago, IL

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More Online Master's Program Rankings

online education masters programs

Online Master's in Business Programs

By earning a business degree online, working students don't have to put their jobs on hold.

online education masters programs

Online Master's in Criminal Justice Programs

Study criminal behavior, take on leadership roles in the justice system or work on research or policy analysis.

online education masters programs

Online Master's in Education Programs

Some school districts require their teachers to have a master's degree, so earning it online can lead to career growth.

online education masters programs

Online Master's in Information Technology Programs

As demand for employees with skills in programming, designing and sharing technology grows, an advanced online degree may be the best option.

Specialty Rankings

Explore the online graduate specialty areas that U.S. News ranks below, from educational administration to industrial and civil engineering, MBA programs in marketing, and nursing education. Learn about specific programs’ tuition cost, enrollment and school type, among other details.

  • Curriculum and Instruction
  • Educational Administration
  • Instructional Media
  • Special Education

Engineering

  • Civil Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Engineering Management
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Business Analytics MBA
  • Finance MBA
  • General Management MBA
  • MBA Programs in Marketing
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nursing Administation
  • Nursing Education

Online Graduate Degrees

Search the many online graduate degrees from those in criminal justice to info tech. There may be degree options available that you’ve never considered possible to complete online.

  • Accounting (Doctorate)
  • Business Intelligence
  • Communications
  • Digital Marketing
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Executive MBA
  • Human Resource Management (Graduate Certificate)
  • Human Resources
  • Human Resources (doctorate)
  • Industrial-Organizational Psychology
  • Industrial-Organizational Psychology (Doctorate)
  • International Business (Doctorate)
  • International MBA
  • International Marketing Management
  • Management (doctorate)
  • Marketing (Doctorate)
  • Marketing (Graduate Certificate)
  • Negotiation and Conflict Management
  • Nonprofit Management
  • Organizational Leadership and Management
  • Project Management
  • Project Management (doctorate)
  • Public Relations
  • Sports Management
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Supply Chain and Logistics (Doctorate)
  • Sustainable Tourism

Criminal Justice

  • Criminal Justice (Doctorate)
  • Criminal Justice Master's Degree
  • Criminology
  • Forensic Psychology
  • Forensic Science
  • Homeland Security
  • Law Enforcement Administration
  • Adult Education
  • Child Development
  • Curriculum and Instruction (doctorate)
  • Doctor of Education
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Education Administration
  • Education Administration (doctorate)
  • Education Leadership and Administration
  • Education Specialist
  • Educational Leadership (Doctorate)
  • Educational Technology (Doctorate)
  • Elementary Education
  • Gifted and Talented Education
  • Higher Education (doctorate)
  • Higher Education Administration
  • Instructional Technology
  • Master of Arts in Teaching
  • Master of Education
  • Math Education
  • Online Doctorate in Educational Psychology
  • Online Teaching
  • Reading and Literacy
  • School Counseling
  • Science Education
  • Secondary Education
  • Social Studies Education
  • Special Education (doctorate)
  • Biomedical Engineering / Bioengineering

Health and Public Service

  • Addiction Counseling
  • Child Psychology
  • Counseling (Doctorate)
  • Emergency Management
  • Emergency Management (Doctorate)
  • Family Counseling
  • Family Counseling (Doctorate)
  • Gerontology
  • Health Care Administration
  • Health Care Administration (Doctorate)
  • Health Care Management (Doctorate)
  • Health Informatics
  • Human Development and Family Studies
  • Human Services
  • Human Services (Doctorate)
  • Master of Social Work
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Physician Assistant
  • Psychology (Doctorate)
  • Public Administration
  • Public Administration (Doctorate)
  • Public Health
  • Public Health (Doctorate)
  • Public Policy
  • Social Work (Doctorate)
  • Computer Information Systems
  • Computer Science
  • Computer Science (Doctorate)
  • Cybersecurity
  • Information Systems Security
  • Information Technology
  • Information Technology (Doctorate)
  • Management Information Systems
  • Software Engineering
  • Telecommunications
  • Legal Studies
  • Online Master of Laws (LL.M.) Degree

Liberal Arts and Science

  • International Relations
  • Liberal Studies
  • Ministry (Doctorate)
  • Political Science
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice
  • Master of Science in Nursing (BSN Option)
  • Master of Science in Nursing (RN Option)

Frequently Asked Questions

How to select the right online master’s program.

Selecting an online master's program is a decision you shouldn’t make lightly. As you’re evaluating programs, consider how each school’s resources, reputation and value line up with your career interests and goals. Graduate programs can be highly specialized and enable students to get deep into a specific subject. Before you decide on a program, make sure you’re passionate about the topic and want to become an expert in it.

Step 1: Research online master's programs.

Whether you want to build on your undergraduate area of study or go in a new direction, like business administration , you can narrow down your program choices with the help of academic advisers at institutions of interest. Past professors and connections from your undergraduate alma mater are another good source for program recommendations. Also, check out the many U.S. News rankings of accredited online master’s programs and specialties to further your search.

Step 2: Check for accreditation.

When choosing an online master’s program, prospective students should ensure the school is accredited by an organization recognized by either the U.S. Department of Education or the nonprofit Council for Higher Education Accreditation. These organizations monitor programs and schools and renew their accreditation every few years. Accreditation is a process that an outside authority conducts to ensure a school or degree program – either on campus, online or a combination of both – meets certain quality standards. Attending an accredited institution is important for your career, as employers favor certain accreditations over others.

Step 3: Watch out for scams.

Prospective students may come across for-profit and nonprofit online schools in their search. For-profit schools are privately owned entities that, for years, have rehabbed their image as high-acceptance, low-graduation and higher debt colleges. To do this, for-profit schools began emphasizing things that nonprofit schools are known to prioritize, including student support services and the use of entrance exams to gauge students’ college readiness.

Be aware that for-profit schools' priority is to make money. Watch out for online degree scams and red flags. If a school’s website suggests you can earn a degree in a very short time period or at an extremely low or abnormally high cost, conduct further research.

Step 4: Find your preferred course format.

Once you narrow down what programs you’re interested in, make sure the courses are in your ideal format. There are various program and course structures in online learning.

  • Asynchronous:  Courses are self-paced with weekly deadlines.
  • Synchronous:  There’s a preset schedule of classes and conversations, typically via videoconference.
  • Hybrid:  Activities are a mix of online and in person and combine synchronous and asynchronous methods.
  • Open-schedule:  This asynchronous format lets students complete assignments based on their course start date.
  • Fixed-time:  In this synchronous format, students must log on to attend class at specific times virtually with no in-person meetings required.

Step 5: Review program details.

Before applying, review admission requirements and application fees and compare the availability of financial aid. Look into details about the school, like competitiveness, what fees you have to pay on top of your tuition – including book, course material and online delivery fees – and information about student services and the faculty.

How Much Does an Online Master’s Degree Cost?

The cost of an online master’s program varies based on a number of factors, including whether the school is public or private, what degree you’re pursuing, whether you’re in-state, and if you can secure a scholarship .

At some institutions, full-time online students pay less for a master’s degree than their in-person counterparts. In addition, tuition for in-state online students can be lower than for those out-of-state.

Online master’s students may save on regular transportation costs and on-campus fees but could incur distance education, matriculation or technology fees , among others. These vary by institution. Prospective students should check whether a program has any on-site components. Some online graduate programs have requirements, like a residency, that could add to the cost. Schools may offer scholarships for specific types of learners, like international students , to help cut the cost of an online degree.

Prospective students must weigh the costs of an online master’s degree with the potential for increased earnings over time. Those with master’s degrees in 2022 earned a median of $1,661 per week, compared with bachelor’s degree holders who took in a median of $1,432 per week, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics . Professionals in STEM, health care and business fields have some of the most notable salary increases after earning an advanced degree. In addition to more money, graduate degree holders have lower unemployment rates than those with only a bachelor’s or high school education.

How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online Master’s Degree?

The length and pace of an online master’s degree depend on whether you choose a full- or part-time program. Full-time students can take more classes per term, but a part-time program may be easier to manage on top of other obligations. Programs take one to three years to complete and require 30 to 50 credits. Part-time programs might cap students to around five years, depending on the area of study.

How Will Potential Employers View an Online Master’s?

Potential employers will view an online master’s degree in a similar light as a degree earned in-person, since in many cases, online programs award students the same degree as its in-person equivalent. Hiring managers and employers generally care about the degree itself – not the format through which it was earned – as well as a school’s reputation and accreditation.

Though in the hiring process, candidates shouldn’t shy away from discussing their online master’s degree. It can be a good opportunity for online learners to showcase commitment to their career field and discuss their time-management skills.

How to Apply to an Online Master's Program

1. note important deadlines..

On top of the application deadline, online master’s programs will have due dates for financial aid and test score submissions. Deadline information is generally available on a school’s website. Creating a calendar of deadlines for your list of schools can help you stay organized.

2. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

Prospective students must fill out the FAFSA to be eligible for federal loans, grants and work-study jobs. Generally, the financial aid process for online master's students is similar to that at the undergraduate level. The biggest difference is that master's students almost always apply as independents, regardless of their age and whether they live with their parents. Therefore, parents’ information isn’t needed for the FAFSA.

Nearly all students who apply for financial aid qualify for some form of it. Because of the complex nature of the FAFSA and financial aid, many schools have advisers who can guide prospective students through the process.

3. Fill out program applications.

Online master’s degree applications are usually tied to a specific program in a school, so the application students need to complete depends on the discipline. Follow instructions carefully and double-check the information you report.

4. Write a great essay.

Applicants likely have to submit an essay or personal statement. Because online students often have some work experience, many experts recommend they emphasize their professional skills as part of their application and explain how their experience has prepared them for the program. Admissions officers also appreciate anecdotes and creativity in essays. It might be helpful to have a friend, colleague or someone in your desired field read over your essay before you submit.

5. Ask for recommendation letters.

Letters of recommendation are often required from online master's students. These may come from professors and current or previous employers who can speak to a student’s qualifications and best attributes. To get the best letters of recommendation, request them from people who know you well academically, like a professor who sparked your interest in your area of study.

6. Submit transcripts and test scores.

Applicants likely need to submit their college transcript with an overall and a major GPA. Students who earned a certificate outside of school can include it on their resume as well. Whether the GMAT or GRE entrance exam is required depends on the school and area of study. Some programs allow students to waive test requirements if they have a certain amount of work experience in a related field. How competitive it is to receive a waiver varies.

Admissions requirements for master’s degrees vary depending on the discipline and school. Consult an admissions officer at schools of interest to determine the exact requirements.

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  • Extended University
  • UTEP Connect
  • Online Programs
  • Master's Programs

Program Highlights

Hispanic student at a lecture

30 credit hours |  In-state tuition: $490/credit hour | Out-of-state tuition: $575/credit hours

  • Available in an easily accessible, 100% online format with asynchronous classes from UTEP’s College of Education
  • Can be completed within 12 months
  • Prepares students to lead Hispanic-Serving Institutions throughout the United States and address the learning and social needs of their college students.
  • Quality academic program with strong practical training and experiential learning for promising education professionals who value diversity and social justice.
  • Aligned with the professional competencies of the American College Personnel Association (ACPA), the Council on Standards in Higher Education (CAS) and the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA)

PROGRAM ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

Prepare to be an Effective Leader in Higher Education

The M.Ed. in Educational Administration with a concentration in Higher Education Leadership is perfect for those interested in a career in higher education with special emphasis and expertise in serving Hispanic, first-generation students. 

This is the only program of its kind focused specifically on preparing leaders for Hispanic-Serving Institutions that is taught by mostly Hispanic faculty who themselves were first-generation college students and have been living and working in one of the largest international borderplexes in the world. Accordingly, the curriculum is infused with the specific characteristics, needs, challenges and advantages of Hispanic-Serving Institutions based on current research and best practices.  

The program emphasizes equity and social justice in higher education and provides relevant and practical hands-on experience that will help students solve real-world problems. 

Ideal candidates for the program include: 

  • Adult professionals who are interested in managing, administering and leading undergraduate and graduate programs emphasizing student success at universities, community colleges, medical schools and nonprofit organizations
  • Recent college graduates that were engaged student leaders and are interested in pursuing a career in higher education and student affairs.
  • High school professionals and teachers looking to help their students succeed in college or transition into a career in higher education
  • Students who want to pursue a master’s degree at a leading Hispanic-Serving Institution as their first step to earn a doctorate and serve as professors.
  • Professional staff members working at community colleges and universities across Texas and the U.S. Southwest particularly in student affairs, academic affairs, new student programs, retention offices, advising and athletics.  

Develop Your Expertise and Focus on Hispanic Student Success

As a student of the program, you will learn how to:

  • Examine higher education and student affairs research, theories and practices in order to apply what is important in Hispanic-Serving Institutions.  
  • Evaluate the impact of higher education and student affairs governance structures and functions in order to improve Hispanic-Serving Institutions. 
  • Critically analyze legal, ethical, and philosophical dilemmas impacting the constituencies of Hispanic-Serving Institutions.   
  • Effectively communicate economic trends of financing and funding of higher education systems and institutions in order to advocate for and create equitable learning environments at Hispanic-Serving Institutions.  
  • Plan, assess and evaluate on a continuing basis in order to address the academic and social needs of Hispanic college students.  

The program fills a need for educators who are multilingual, multicultural, first-generation, and who demographically represent the growing populations of college students at colleges across the United States; so, multiple job opportunities in higher education are possible. 

Graduates of the program will be well-qualified for positions in the following areas of higher education:

  • Administration and leadership
  • Student affairs
  • Academic program planning, implementation and evaluation
  • Transition and retention
  • Student success

Course Overview

The 30-credit hour may be completed in 12 months  The program offers interested students with cutting-edge knowledge, skills and dispositions that foster collaboration, problem-solving skills, use of data for decision-making and communication skills to lead.

Required Courses

EDAD 5371: Leading Hispanic-Serving Institutions

EDAD 5394: Higher Education Organization and Governance

EDAD 5305: Educational Research Methods

EDAD 5397: College Student Learning and Development

EDAD 5383: Social Justice and Inclusion in Higher Education

EDAD 5396: Higher Education Finance

EDAD 5360: Higher Education Internship

EDAD 5393: Legal and Ethical Issues in Higher Education

EDAD 5392: The Community College

EDAD 5346: Program, Planning, Assessment, and Evaluation

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Kent State Online

Kent State Ranks Best Online Master’s in Education Programs, Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs, Best Online Master’s in Business Programs and Best Online Master’s in MBA Programs in the U.S. News 2024 Best Graduate Schools Rankings

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Kent State University is recognized nationally for high-quality 100% online graduate degree programs.

U.S. News & World Report recognizes Kent State in the Best Online Master’s in Education Programs, Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs, Best Online Master’s in Business Programs, and Best Online Master’s in MBA Programs lists in its new 2024 Best Online Programs rankings. Notably, three of the university’s online programs rank among the top 100 on the list, with the online master’s in education programs moving up 84 spots to No. 58, the highest ranking for a public institution in northern Ohio on this year’s list.

Kent State aims not only to make quality education more accessible to the meritorious many but also to create lifelong learners. Both aspects have once again been recognized on a national scale.

Kent State University’s Graduate Education Programs

Kent State’s  College of Education, Health and Human Services   currently offers 25 master’s programs and 14 doctoral programs, including Doctor of Philosophy and Doctor of Education degrees. The breadth of these offerings, coupled with faculty expertise and experience in research and teaching, makes the college an ideal place to pursue graduate study in the disciplines related to education as well as health and human services.

Kent State University Online Master’s Degrees from the College of Education, Health and Human Services

The College of Education, Health and Human Services (EHHS) at Kent State University offers several graduate degrees, concentrations, and certificates 100% online . With the working professional in mind, the college provides quality education on an online platform.

Cultural Foundations (M.Ed.)

The Online Master of Education degree in Cultural Foundations  explores education through a range of disciplinary and interdisciplinary perspectives: philosophy of education, history of education, sociology of education, comparative/international education, anthropology of education, gender studies, multicultural studies, and religious studies.

Curriculum & Instruction (M.Ed.)

The Online Master of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction   provides a wide range of graduate study opportunities in progressive, research-based curriculum and teaching practices. The program prepares educators for continuing professional development, education in a multicultural society, and leadership for curriculum reform and renewal.

Educational Psychology (M.Ed.)

The Online Master of Education degree in Educational Psychology  provides advanced study for students interested in the application of psychological principles to learning and instruction. It includes various disciplines, including cognitive psychology, human development, and learning theory.

Educational Technology (M.Ed.)

The Online Master of Education degree in Educational Technology   prepares students to design, develop, and use a variety of technologies in school classrooms, training facilities, or other educational settings. The program’s Online and Blended Learning Certificate and the Computer Technology Endorsement are also offered online.

Hospitality & Tourism Management (M.S.)

The Online Master of Science degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management provides an integrated hospitality and tourism graduate education, emphasizing regional, national, and global implications of the field. Students will develop critical analysis skills, and research abilities, and understand advanced hospitality and tourism issues.

Research, Measurement & Statistics (M.Ed.)

The Online Master of Education degree in Research, Measurement & Statistics   Develops educators and specialists in assessment, measurement, research design, and program evaluation for careers in schools (pre-kindergarten to grade 12) and in higher education.

Special Education (M.Ed.)

The Online Master of Education degree in Special Education   provides students with an advanced understanding of contemporary research and practice issues in special education. The General Special Education concentration, the Autism Spectrum Disorder graduate certificate, and the Behavioral Intervention Specialist graduate certificate are also offered fully online.

Interprofessional Leadership (Ed.D.)

The Online Doctor of Education degree in Interprofessional Studies   allows for the study of leadership from an interprofessional perspective that is framed around questions of equity, ethics, and social justice to bring about solutions to complex problems of practice. The program prepares leaders who can construct and apply knowledge to make a difference for individuals, families, organizations, and communities.

More information on Kent State Online Master’s Degrees from the College of Education, Health and Human Services .

Kent State University’s Online Master’s in Nursing Program

Kent State’s online master’s in nursing program offered by the College of Nursing ranks No. 54 on this year’s list, up 11 spots from last year, making it once again the highest-ranking program among all public and private institutions in northern Ohio.

Kent State’s Master of Science in Nursing program thoroughly prepares registered nurses for roles in advanced practice, education, research, and healthcare administration. Students develop a strong foundation for further postgraduate and doctoral-level study in nursing, with the College of Nursing  helping them during every step of their education and professional practice. 

Kent State University Online Master of Science in Nursing

The online Master of Science in Nursing degree prepares nurses for advanced clinical roles while making them eligible for national certification as clinical nurse specialists (CNS), nurse practitioners (NP) or to serve as nurse educators, health care management, or leadership roles.

This degree meets the educational eligibility requirements for national certification in the respective area of study. The degree program can be completed in four to five semesters (two full academic years) for full-time students. Part-time students typically take three to four years to complete the program.

For more information on Kent State’s Online Master of Science in Nursing degree, visit https://onlinedegrees.kent.edu/degrees/master-of-science-in-nursing .

More information on Kent State’s additional online nursing degrees .

Kent State University’s Online Master’s in Business Programs

The university’s online master’s in business program moved up three spots to land at No. 97 on this year’s list, the highest ranking among all institutions in Northeast Ohio. Lastly, the university’s online master’s in MBA program ranks No. 107 on the 2024 U.S. News list, making it the highest-ranked program among all institutions in northern Ohio. Both the online master’s in business program and the online master’s in MBA program are offered by Kent State’s Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship.

Kent State University’s Online Master’s in Business Administration (MBA)

The online Master of Business Administration degree is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB).

The MBA degree prepares students for responsible leadership positions in private, nonprofit, and public organizations. Upon completion of the degree, graduates demonstrate a global mindset and competence in critical thinking, digital technology, communication, teamwork, and ethical and sustainable management.

The program welcomes students from a full range of undergraduate degrees. Regardless of their undergraduate education, students will find a challenging program designed to prepare them for management positions in organizations.

For more information on Kent State Online’s Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) visit, https://onlinedegrees.kent.edu/degrees/mba .

More information on Kent State’s additional online business degrees .

About the U.S. News & World Report 2024 Rankings

To be considered for inclusion on the list, U.S. News evaluated schools in the Best Online Programs list based on a variety of factors, such as student engagement, faculty credentials, and services and technologies. The 2024 list is designed for individuals looking to complete or further their education. This year’s edition evaluates more than 1,800 online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs using metrics specific to online learning. The rankings only include degree-granting programs offered primarily online by regionally accredited institutions.

For more information about the U.S. News 2024 Best Online Programs list, visit www.usnews.com/education/online-education/rankings .

Kent State University Online Degrees

Kent State University is a pioneer in online and distance education, offering its first online program 20 years ago. Kent State now offers 90 online degree and online certificate programs, unmatched by most peer universities with new online programs and online degrees continually added.

Earn your degree anytime, anywhere, with Kent State University’s online graduate degrees, online undergraduate degrees, and online certificate programs.  Kent State Online   brings together online programs and assistance for students, faculty, the community, and global audiences.

For more information on Kent State’s Online Degrees, visit  https://onlinedegrees.kent.edu .

Geographic Information Science Web Mapping

WMU ranks nationally for best online master's in education programs

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's College of Education and Human Development has again been recognized for offering one of the country's best online master's in education programs. In the U.S. News & World Report's 2024 Best Online Master's in Education Programs  rankings, the college tied for second in the state and ranked No. 73 in the nation.

"This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our faculty, the quality of our curriculum and our commitment to providing exceptional online education opportunities," says  Dr. Laura Dinehart , dean of the College of Education and Human Development. "We are honored to be acknowledged for our efforts in delivering excellence in graduate education."  

Engagement was the highest considered indicator U.S. News & World Report evaluated to determine program ranking. Western's online master's in education programs prioritize student engagement and success as well as foster a collaborative environment where aspiring teachers and administrators can easily interact with instructors and peers. Other indicators considered in the ranking include faculty credentials and training, peer assessment, services and technologies, and student excellence. Review Western's ranking

The College of Education and Human Development also received a top ranking on U.S. News & World Report's  2024 Best Online Master's in Education Programs for Veterans . The college was the only institution ranked in Michigan and No. 23 in the nation. In addition to the quality of the programs, the ranking also considered how accessible institutions made financial benefits accessible to veterans.

"We remain dedicated to offering outstanding educational opportunities tailored to meet the unique needs of our veteran students and are grateful for this acknowledgement," says Dinehart.

WMU has consistently received recognition from the military community for its support of veteran students, including being named on Military Time's Best for Vets  list of universities. 

For more WMU news, arts and events , visit  WMU News  online.

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The Master of Education in Health and Wellness   degree will help you teach others about healthy life choices. You will learn about a wide range of health topics, and how to assess a community or an organization to determine health education priorities. Once you graduate, you will be prepared to take the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) exam.

Quality You Expect

Our accredited programs are designed for working professionals who want a quality education. We’re committed to delivering high-quality, affordable and accessible online programs grounded in evidence-based content and relevant application.

Low Cost You Deserve

Because we’re 100% online, you only pay for the cost of delivering your education, not infrastructure like buildings or dorms. In fact, our affordability allows most of our students to graduate with no debt. We also offer over $2.5 million in scholarships and grants every year.

Flexibility You Need

Complete your coursework any time and anywhere there’s an internet connection. You’ll have access to academic resources 24/7, and highly responsive faculty and librarians. You decide how we fit into your life, not the other way around.

We believe in full transparency with our total cost of attendance. No hidden fees. No surprises along the way.

Find a plan that fits your budget.

When We Say Low Cost, We Mean It

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Walden university, purdue global, southern new hampshire university, university of phoenix, grand canyon university.

Source: Internal Research Completed on June 2023

Program Details

Focus of study, start dates.

With flexible start dates, you can begin your program when it’s best for you.

April 08, 2024 Term

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Here are just some of the courses you’ll take when working towards this program. Visit the College Catalog to see all courses.

Featured Faculty

Our real-world coursework is taught by experienced faculty.

Byron Barton

Byron Barton

Merle Point-Johnson

Merle Point-Johnson

Jodi Boling

Jodi Boling

Gretchen Burke

Gretchen Burke

Ashley Winans

Ashley Winans

Katia Chamberlain

Katia Chamberlain

Tesa Brown

Eiman Eltinay

John Gachago

John Gachago

Christopher Gransberry, PhD

Christopher Gransberry, PhD

Admission requirements, ace general admission requirements.

  • Complete and submit all application components including the admission application, the enrollment agreement and payment agreement.
  • Submit the nonrefundable application fee.*
  • Provide official transcripts from an institution that is accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education indicating successful completion of the level of education required for entry to the program.**

*The application fee is valid for one year from date of submission.

**Additional evidence may be required to fulfill state requirements, including but not limited to verification of professional experience, test scores, or an interview.

Program Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor’s or Highest Post-Baccalaureate degree earned
  • Minimum Grade Point Average 2.50 on a 4.00 Scale for full admission
  • Minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average of 2.00 on a 4.00 Scale for Provisional Admission
  • Applicants must achieve and maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout their program

International Transcript Requirements

All applicants must submit, to the Admissions Office, an official evaluation from a NACES-approved organization.

  • Transcripts that are international and/or not in English must be evaluated through a NACES -recommended agency.
  • Texas applicants may only submit evaluations from agencies approved by the Texas Education Agency .
  • International applicants must request the course-by-course evaluation. The evaluation report must show that the non-U.S. education is equivalent to the education/accreditation level required for the program.

English as a Second Language Applicants

All applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate competence in the English language as demonstrated in one of three ways:

  • Submission of an official transcript showing a degree from a United States secondary school or regionally accredited college/university.
  • Submission of an official minimum score on the paper or internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exams.
  • The minimum TOEFL score required for the internet-based version is 80, and the paper-based version requires a minimum TOEFL score of 20 for each of the three skills: Reading, Listening and Writing.
  • The minimum IELTS score required is 6.5. Note: IELTS is not acceptable for Texas programs leading to certification.
  • The testing agency must send test scores directly to American College of Education.
  • Applicants to the Texas Educational Leadership program whose first language is not English must submit a minimum scaled score of 24 for speaking, 22 for listening, 22 for reading and 21 for writing from the Internet-Based TOEFL (IBT) or evidence of an undergraduate or graduate degree earned at an institution of higher education in a country outside of the United States listed in Figure: 19 TAC §230.11(b)(5)(C) .

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Combined Degrees

Earn two degrees in less time by pursuing a combined degree program

Contact the Combined Degree Program staff

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79 John F. Kennedy Street Littauer Building Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138

Broaden your insight with a second discipline

Our combined degree programs allow you to explore how to address the world’s most pressing challenges at the intersection of public policy and business, law, medicine, or design.

You will earn two degrees in less time through reduced coursework and residency requirements. For example, it would take four years to complete an MPA and MBA separately—two years for each degree. Combined degree candidates earn both degrees in three years.

Embarking on two degree programs can be rewarding but also challenging. Combined degree students commit to two programs at two institutions and graduate upon fulfilling the requirements for both degrees.

“By spending three years deeply exploring the public and private sectors, you’ll gain a unique agility to operate across sectors. It’s an incredibly holistic education that adds value to nearly any career path.” — Brandon Moore MPP/MBA 2025

About our combined degree programs

Joint degrees (mpp and mpa/id).

MPP  and  MPA/ID  students can pursue a joint degree involving carefully crafted and integrated coursework. You can choose between an MBA at  Harvard Business School  (HBS) or a JD at  Harvard Law School  (HLS).

HKS/HBS Joint Degree Program

As an HKS/HBS student, you spend your first year at HKS, your second at HBS, and split your final year between the two campuses. You must apply to HKS and HBS separately and be admitted to both in the same admissions cycle.

If you are interested in getting a first-hand account of the HKS/HBS joint degree student experience,  complete this brief form  to connect with a current student.

HKS/HLS Joint Degree Program

As an HKS/HLS student, you spend your first two years completing core courses at HKS and HLS—one year at each school. After that, you will be based at HLS and will take courses at HKS to complete your MPP or MPA/ID degree requirements. You can apply to both schools at the same time or apply to one while enrolled in the other. 

Capstone Seminar

Students in both joint degree programs must complete a capstone seminar, involving the  Policy Analysis Exercise  or  Second Year Policy Analysis  for HKS/HBS students and the Integrated Written Project for HKS/HLS students. 

Concurrent Degrees (MPP, MPA/ID, and MPA)

MPP ,  MPA/ID , and  MPA  students can pursue a concurrent degree in business, law, medicine, design, or another field—as long as it is:

  • A professional degree (for example, an MBA, MD, or JD; not a PhD or an academic master’s degree)
  • At least a two-year program
  • Completed at a partner institution (see our list below)

You can apply to HKS and the partner institution simultaneously or apply to one school while enrolled in your first year at the other. If you are already in medical school, you should apply to HKS during the admission cycle before you would like to enroll. 

As a concurrent degree student, you:

  • Weave together the two halves of your learning experience on your own
  • Will study at HKS and your other school throughout your degree program
  • Must complete at least three semesters at HKS
  • Cannot complete the course requirements for one degree before beginning coursework for the other
  • Will have reduced coursework and residency requirements, but the number and type of courses will depend on your degree program

Splitting Your Time

  • MPP and MPA/ID students spend a full academic year at HKS completing the core curriculum during the first or second year of the combined program, then split the final year between the two programs. 
  • MPA students can decide to split either their first or final year at HKS. If you split your first year, you must be in-residence at HKS for the fall semester.

Partner Institutions

Concurrent degree students pursue a second graduate degree at one of our partner institutions.

  • Harvard Divinity School (HDS)
  • Harvard Graduate School of Design (GSD)
  • Harvard Medical School (HMS)
  • Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM)

If you are an HKS/HDS or HKS/GSD student, you spend a full year at each school in the first two years and one semester at each school for your final year. If you are an HKS/HMS or HKS/HSDM student, you spend a full academic year at HKS; after that, you will be based at HMS or HSDM and will take courses at HKS to complete your MPP, MPA/ID, or MPA degree.

Other Partner Institutions

  • MIT Sloan School of Management
  • Stanford Graduate School of Business
  • Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth
  • Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania
  • Berkeley Law, University of California
  • Columbia Law School
  • Duke University School of Law
  • Georgetown Law
  • New York University School of Law
  • Northwestern Pritzker School of Law
  • Stanford Law School
  • University of Michigan Law School
  • University of Pennsylvania Law School
  • Yale Law School

United States-based Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) accredited schools.  See the school list here . 

Dual Degree (MC/MPA)

MC/MPA students can pursue a dual degree with the Geneva Graduate Institute.

You will spend your first year at the  Geneva Graduate Institute  studying in the  Master in International and Development Studies  Program. Your second and final year is spent at HKS in the  Mid-Career Master in Public Administration  Program, where you are part of an extraordinary cohort of accomplished and forward-looking professionals—all sharing the same commitment to public service.

You may apply to both programs at the same time or apply to HKS while enrolled at the Geneva Graduate Institute.

Featured combined degree stories

Fighting for equitable policies in health care.

LaShyra Nolen MPP/MD 2024 steps into the ring to fight for equitable policies in health care.

Designing the future of cities

Jorge Silva MPA/MUP 2018 focuses on the role of housing policy to create cities that thrive.

Seeking justice

An indefatigable defender of the powerless, Bryan Stevenson MPP/JD 1985 worked for decades to bring justice via the courtroom. 

Applying to a combined degree program

How to apply.

You must apply and be admitted to HKS and the partner institution. Being admitted to one program does not guarantee you admission to the other.

A complete application to HKS includes: 

  • Online application
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • If you are an HKS/HLS applicant, you may submit LSAT scores only if you are a first-year at HLS; however, you must submit a written request to the HLS admissions office to have your LSAT scores sent to HKS.  You must submit GRE or GMAT scores if you are an applicant not enrolled at HLS.
  • If you are an HKS/HMS applicant, you may submit your MCAT score rather than the GRE or GMAT; however, you must submit a written request to the HMS admissions office to have your MCAT scores sent to HKS. Contact the HKS admissions office if you are applying from medical schools other than HMS and do not have valid GRE or GMAT scores.
  • The MPA/ID Program does not accept LSAT or MCAT scores.
  • Academic transcripts
  • $100 application fee or waiver

Read more about how to apply .

The application for the 2025-2026 academic year will be available in September 2024.  There is one admission application deadline and one start date for each degree program per year. You may apply to only one master’s degree program per admissions cycle. 

Tuition & Fees

As a combined degree student, you will be charged HKS tuition and fees for the semesters you are enrolled at HKS. 

The cost of attendance for the 2024-2025 academic year is outlined in  Funding Your Master’s Education  to help you plan financially for our master’s degree programs. Living expense costs are based on residence in Cambridge. The 2025-2026 academic year rates will be published in March 2025. HKS tuition and fees are subject to change without notice. 

Financing your education is a partnership—we are here to help guide you. You are strongly encouraged to explore all  funding opportunities . If you are awarded financial assistance from HKS, this funding can only be applied while you are enrolled at HKS. 

Learn more about the HKS community

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How free online courses from MIT can “transform the future of the world”

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From full introductory courses in engineering, psychology, and computer science to lectures about financial concepts, linguistics, and music, the MIT OpenCourseWare YouTube channel has it all — offering millions of learners around the world a pathway to develop new skills and broaden their knowledge base with free offerings from MIT educators.

“I believe OpenCourseWare and Open Learning resources will transform the future of the world for the better — in financial markets I know it already has,” says Michael Pilgreen, a sculptor, painter, and poet from Memphis, Tennessee, who discovered OpenCourseWare when he found himself unemployed in 2020 and used it to jumpstart a new career on Wall Street. 

After watching several lectures about finance, computer science, programming, mathematics, and algorithms on the OpenCourseWare YouTube channel and website, Pilgreen enrolled in the MITx MicroMasters program in finance. He is now a business operations specialist for the Jameel World Education Lab at MIT Open Learning, where he helps the lab bring MIT ideas and know-how to educational innovators worldwide. 

“MIT OpenCourseWare opens the doors to conversations that were previously closed to learners by geography, time, and class,” Pilgreen says. “As an open learner, I was able to leverage the best instructors in the world from my living room, and turn my time being unemployed into a productive period acquiring the skills I needed to work on Wall Street.”

OpenCourseWare is the brainchild of MIT faculty members. The platform was launched in 2001 when the age of digital sharing was just getting started, establishing MIT as the first higher education institution to make educational resources freely available to learners regardless of geographical location or institutional affiliation. Four years later in 2005, OpenCourseWare created a YouTube channel to further its commitment to accessibility and lifelong learning.

Today, OpenCourseWare — part of MIT Open Learning — remains a global model for open sharing in higher education, with an open license that allows the remix and reuse of its educational resources. OpenCourseWare offers materials on its website from more than 2,500 courses that span the MIT undergraduate and graduate curriculum. Educational resources include syllabi, lecture notes, problem sets, assignments, audiovisual content, and insights. 

“We almost take for granted the idea that an enormous amount of outstanding educational content is available to anyone in the world with an internet connection,” says MIT President Sally Kornbluth. “Yet, the fact that this is now the norm has a great deal to do with a groundbreaking project launched at MIT in 2001. OpenCourseWare changed the landscape of education, and it continues to inspire students, teachers, and lifelong learners around the globe to follow their curiosity wherever it leads.”

Curt Newton, OpenCourseWare’s publication director, says the platform inspires millions of curious and motivated learners every year. With over 5 million subscribers and 430 million views, OpenCourseWare stands out as the largest .edu YouTube channel. The channel opens a window into MIT classrooms, giving learners the opportunity to pursue their interests, develop new skills, and even switch careers.

“Videos on our YouTube channel have proven to be an especially effective meeting place,” Newton says. “From introductions to computer programming and the human brain to what it's like to pilot an advanced jet aircraft , these videos are both a complete learning experience in themselves and an entry into even more expansive worlds of learning found on the OpenCourseWare website.”

Emmanuel Kasigazi, an entrepreneur from Uganda, turned to YouTube during the Covid-19 lockdowns and found hundreds of complete lectures on the OpenCourseWare YouTube channel. He explored psychology, cloud computing, data science, and artificial intelligence. 

“The channel opened my eyes to something I didn’t know was reachable,” Kasigazi says. “The psychology classes I took are 24 episodes; each episode is around 40 minutes. That’s a season of 'Grey’s Anatomy.' It’s amazing that I could spend the same amount of time on two different things, but one of them would change my life, my mindset, and the other would just give me a small dopamine boost.”

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During his learning journey, Kasigazi also gained a community of open learners. He has teamed up with Pilgreen to shine light on the educational adventures of fellow OpenCourseWare learners. The duo is working on a podcast that will launch this fall. 

“From the channel itself you get great value, but then you pull back the curtain and get to meet the people on the OpenCourseWare team, and it’s amazing,” Kasigazi says. “It’s incredible the people I get to talk to — all because I decided to watch something on YouTube. The most impactful thing I've gotten from this channel is the people I’ve met along the way and the things I’m learning.”

While learners get to expand their knowledge base through these free, publicly accessible videos, MIT faculty members preserve their knowledge for generations to come. 

The late professor Patrick Winston's foundational AI lectures have long been popular on OpenCourseWare. His “ How to Speak ” lecture, published on the OpenCourseWare YouTube channel in 2018, has become the most popular video on the channel with 18 million views. Winston's annual talk, which had long been a revered event for the MIT community, has now helped millions of people improve their speaking abilities — from conversing with someone one-on-one to presenting research to nailing job interviews.

Gilbert Strang, a world-renowned mathematician, was one of the first professors to publish his lectures on OpenCourseWare. Today, his linear algebra courses have received more than 15 million visits on OpenCourseWare’s website and over 34 million views on YouTube. 

Andrea Henshall, a retired major in the U.S. Air Force, credits her academic success to Strang’s lectures on OpenCourseWare — and other MIT open educational resources. Henshall discovered Strang’s videos after struggling during her first semester of her master’s program in aeronautics and astronautics at MIT. By the end of her master’s program, Henshall was getting A's in all her courses. She is now pursuing a PhD at MIT.

Although Strang has recently retired from MIT after 63 years of teaching, his lessons will continue to be available online to learners in every country on Earth.

“Great teaching is timeless, from the insightful teaching of decades past to our newest video series — an introduction to using data to address cultural, social, economic, and policy questions, created by Sara Ellison and Nobel laureate Esther Duflo,” Newton says. “We’re honored to be preserving and sharing this knowledge for generations to come.” 

MIT OpenCourseWare publishes new content regularly on its YouTube channel and website. Brett Paci, OpenCourseWare’s media publication manager, produces the podcast episodes and many of the video lectures published on the YouTube channel. He considers the channel a “gift to the world.”

“It’s very much in the spirit and mission of MIT to contribute to the global collective knowledge and facilitate learning,” Paci says. “It’s a mission we can be proud of.”

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Counselor Education and Supervision - Ph.D.

  • Program Coordinator: Cassie Storlie | [email protected] | 330-672-0693
  • Chat with an Admissions Counselor

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Getting Started - What to Know Before You Apply

  • To complete the CES PhD program, full-time students often take two years of coursework (including one online synchronous course each summer), two semesters of doctoral internship, and successfully complete their comprehensive exams prior to moving on to a Dissertation.
  • Advanced Counseling Practicum and our two Supervision courses are completed on the Kent campus at the  Counseling Center in White Hall.
  • A doctoral residency plan is established with co-advisors which includes one year of full-time study, that is, enrollment for a 12 month period including 21 semester hours (e.g., two semesters of 9hrs plus a summer of 3hrs) and additional professional development activities related to the five core areas of CES
  • Applicants should have a master’s degree in counseling , preferably from a CACREP accredited program. Applicants without a master’s degree in counseling should consider our  EdS Program . Our application deadline for all materials is February 1st of each year for applicants to start the following Fall semester. 

Review Application Procedures Before Applying to Kent State University

  • Read and Review the Doctoral Program handbook found here
  • Contact the Doctoral Program Coordinator for an initial individual interview
  • After the initial interview, obtain Writing Sample prompt from Doctoral Program Coordinator (available after September 1 each year)
  • Complete all application materials (letters of recommendation, goal statement, etc.) through application portal
  • Attend Doctoral Group Interview Day – Held in White Hall on the second Friday in February from 9am-12:30pm

Mission and Key Performance Indicators

The mission of the Counselor Education and Supervision (CES) doctoral program at Kent State University is to prepare research-informed, ethically sound, and culturally intentional counselor educators and supervisors who can effectively: conduct research and engage in scholarship; provide counseling supervision; facilitate learning; engage in leadership and advocacy; and deliver counseling services. Fulfilling this mission will ensure delivery of a high-quality doctoral education which meets the standards of the  Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) .

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are the student learning outcomes that the Counselor Education and Supervision program has developed to represent student knowledge and skills related to the program’s mission and objectives.

Key Performance Indicators for the Doctoral Program in Counselor Education and Supervision:

  • KPI CES 1: Graduates will be able to understand and apply legal and ethical standards and multicultural competencies.
  • KPI CES 2: Graduates will be able to conceptualize clients from multiple theoretical perspectives.
  • KPI CES 3: Graduates will be able to understand and apply methods for evaluating counseling effectiveness.
  • KPI CES 4: Graduates will be able to use theories of supervision in their clinical application.
  • KPI CES 5: Graduates will be able to understand and apply evaluative, gatekeeping, and remediation practices in clinical supervision.
  • KPI CES 6: Graduates will be able to understand and apply pedagogical and teaching methods in CES.
  • KPI CES 7: Graduates will be able to understand and apply instructional and curriculum design, delivery, and evaluation methods of teaching.
  • KPI CES 8: Graduates will be able to understand and apply research designs appropriate for quantitative and qualitative research questions.
  • KPI CES 9: Graduates will be able to understand and apply best practices for professional writing.
  • KPI CES 10: Graduates will be able to understand and apply leadership theory and skills in CES.
  • KPI CES 11: Graduates will be able to understand and critically evaluate current issues in CES. 

Program Information

For more information about graduate admissions, visit the graduate admission website . For more information on international admissions, visit the international admission website .

Admission Requirements

  • Master's degree from an accredited college or university
  • Minimum 3.500 graduate GPA on a 4.000 point scale
  • Official transcript(s)
  • Résumé or vita
  • Goal Statement
  • Supplemental form
  • Completion of the Questions Regarding Legal and Ethical Issues form
  • Preliminary written exam
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Interview (Individual and Group))
  • Minimum 550 TOEFL PBT score
  • Minimum 79 TOEFL IBT score
  • Minimum 77 MELAB score
  • Minimum 77 IELTS score
  • Minimum 58 PTE score
  • Minimum 110 Duolingo English score

Students are expected to have completed curricular experiences equivalent to CACREP entry-level standards and curricular requirements of a specific CACREP program area before beginning doctoral-level counselor education coursework. Any missing content can be completed before or in some cases (e.g., if minimal content is needed) concurrently with initial doctoral-level counselor education coursework.

Application Deadlines

  • Priority deadline: February 1 Applications submitted by this deadline will receive the strongest consideration for admission .

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of ethical and legal considerations, and multicultural responsiveness, in counselor education and supervision.
  • Demonstrate a specific focus on knowledge and skill/practice in the following areas: counselor supervision; teaching/pedagogy of counselor education; research and scholarship; advanced counseling theory and techniques; leadership and advocacy; and professional identity as a counselor.
  • Assume the role of instructor with the ability to understand and apply: teaching methods; instructional and curriculum design; and evaluation methods of teaching.
  • Provide high quality counseling supervision which enhances supervisees' ability to conceptualize clients from multiple theoretical perspectives; nurtures supervisees' counseling skills; evaluates the effectiveness of supervisees' counseling; uses multiple theories of supervision; and demonstrates knowledge and skills related to evaluative, gatekeeping and remediation practices of supervision.
  • Conduct quantitative and qualitative research, along with understanding and applying the recommended practices for professional writing.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the principles and practices of counseling in a diverse and ever-changing society.
  • Demonstrate a firm grasp of leadership theory, and provide leadership and advocacy to the counseling profession.
  • Demonstrate an ability to critically evaluate current issues in the profession.

Program Requirements

Progression requirements, graduation requirements.

Before taking any field-based experiences, students must complete state and Federal background checks. See the program coordinator for more information.

Students will complete 3 credit hours of CES 88292 per semester for two consecutive semesters, for a total of 6 credit hours of internship.

Elective courses must be relevant to counselor education and supervision. Students must consult with and obtain approval from their advisors about registering for electives.

Upon admission to candidacy, each doctoral candidate must register for CES 80199 . It is expected that a doctoral candidate will continuously register for Dissertation I for a total of 30 credit hours, and thereafter CES 80299 , each semester until all requirements for the degree have been met. Students will be expected to be familiar with data entry and interpreting computer generated analysis.

Students who earn a C+ grade or lower in any course for the degree must repeat the course for a better grade. All prerequisites for courses must be completed with a minimum minimum B- grade.

  • Minimum B- (or Satisfactory) grade in all courses
  • After admission to the Ph.D. degree program, students plan a program of study with their respective faculty advisory committee. Please refer to the program doctoral handbook and graduate student handbook for more information about requirements for graduation.
  • Successful completion of written and oral comprehensive exams is required before students can be registered for dissertation credit hours.
  • Kent Campus

Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)

Additional Information & Resources

The intent of the comprehensive written and oral examination is to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of the student’s knowledge of Counselor Education and Supervision than can be completed in an individual course. The comprehensive written and oral examination is centered on the 5 core areas of CES. The comprehensive written and oral examination is to be taken at the completion of the student’s course work (CES 88292 Internship in CES may be incomplete at the time of the comprehensive examination); that is, all course work listed as part of the Prospectus & Residency Plan must be completed before the student is eligible to take the comprehensive written and oral examination EXCEPT ELECTIVES .

There are five core areas of the CES Doctoral Comprehensive Examinations which include:

  • Supervision
  • Leadership and Advocacy
  • Research and Scholarship

The written comprehensive examination will be offered SIX times during the academic year (Fall semester: September 1, October 1, November 1 and Spring semester: February 1, March 1 and April 1).

In the CES Ph.D. program, students complete the written portion of the comprehensive examination in five weeks . At the student’s request, the two CES faculty co-advisors help prepare the student for the five areas to be covered on the written portion of the examination; note that it is the student’s responsibility to schedule a meeting(s) with co-advisors to assist with preparation.

Once the written portion of the examination has been completed, the Advisory Committee (CES co-advisors) may determine that the student 1) has successfully passed the written examination and is ready for the oral examination, or 2) determine that there is a deficiency, and that re-writing is necessary. The Advisory Committee (CES co-advisors) must indicate a satisfactory performance on the “written portion” of the examination before the student can schedule the “oral portion” of the examination.

Once a doctoral student receives the five questions for the CES written comprehensive exam, this is considered the first administration . Students have TWO opportunities to pass the written comprehensive exam per the EHHS Graduate Student Handbook. For further information on guidance to the comprehensive exams, refer to the CES Doctoral Handbook.

CES Doctoral Student Handbook

  • Counselor Education and Supervision Doctoral Program Brochure & Student Handbook

CES Doctoral Plan of Study

  • Ph.D. Prospectus

CES Doctoral Internship Manual

  • Internship Manual

Examples of Possible Careers and Salaries

  • Counselor Educator and Supervisor
  • Advanced Counselor
  • Advanced Counseling Practitioner

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Local News | Naropa expands online degrees, 40% of students…

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Local news | naropa expands online degrees, 40% of students in programs.

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Naropa University in Boulder is adding to its bachelor’s degree offerings this fall with environmental studies and interdisciplinary studies online programs.

Since the pandemic, Naropa administrators have seen an opportunity to reach more students through online programs, said Ann Marie Klotz, Naropa’s vice president for development, enrollment and student success. Now, about 40% of Naropa’s student body is enrolled in an online or low residency program. A low residency program is one that is largely online, but students make occasional on-campus visits

“Naropa, to me, is one of the few schools that has taken the lessons learned in the pandemic and has said how can we do our business a little bit differently?” Klotz said. “How can we take what we’ve learned, think about what works and pivot that to the future?”

Starting this fall, Naropa will have four bachelor’s degree programs offered entirely online. Bachelor of arts degrees in psychology and art therapy already exist online, and this fall, Naropa is adding bachelor of arts degrees in environmental studies and interdisciplinary studies. The degrees aren’t new to Naropa, and the university still offers them in-person.

“Boulder is not an inexpensive market, and what we were able to do is take the Naropa curriculum, the Naropa experience, and make it more available to students across the country,” Klotz said.

The environmental studies program curriculum is special to Naropa, said Betsy Gonzalez Blohm, dean of Naropa College and Graduate Collective.

“I think it’s a program that is so needed at this moment in time,” Gonzalez Blohm said. “It’s a very innovative, at the forefront of climate justice program.”

The interdisciplinary degree allows students to design their own major, and works well for people who have a high number of transfer credits, Gonzalez Blohm said. Students can choose from classes including art therapy, visual art, music, religious studies, yoga, psychology, environmental studies and social justice.

“Even though there’s only now four online majors, there’s really a wide and growing number of really unique classes that don’t exist in most universities,” she said.

Those classes include herbalism, or the medicinal use of plants, psychedelic studies courses and somatic therapy, aimed at treating trauma through a mind-body connection.

A handful of master’s programs are offered as low residency programs, including ecopsychology, yoga studies, master of divinity and clinical mental health counseling.

‘Find that balance’

About 70% of Naropa students are in a graduate program, and about 30% are in an undergraduate program. Of the 30% of undergraduates, about 78% are transfer students. The average age of a Naropa student is 28 to 34.

“They may have tried college seven or eight years ago and going back to a state school doesn’t feel like a great fit, and they know they can be in a classroom with other folks who have had similar experiences,” Klotz said. “I think our reputation is that we have faculty who will meet students where they’re at, (and) we welcome the life experiences they bring to the classroom.”

Gonzalez Blohm said Naropa’s mission and values are about disrupting the status quo, so the people who don’t match well with a traditional higher education experience may be attracted to Naropa because it’s not traditional.

“A lot of the one right way about this is ‘what academics look like’ and ‘this is what intelligence looks like’ doesn’t really harness diverse ways of learning and knowing,” Gonzalez Blohm said. “Whereas Naropa really asks students to contemplate and think critically about the way our society operates and who it benefits to have this one-size-fits-all model of education and tries to disrupt that by weaving in the arts, by weaving in meditation, weaving in movement and embodiment perspectives.”

With Naropa’s 50th anniversary year starting in June, Klotz said the university is looking at the first 50 years and thinking about how it can progress in the next 50 years.

“I think we’re having to find that balance,” Klotz said. “I think that we’re never going to be an entirely online school and we’re never again, probably, going to be an entirely in-person school.”

Gonzalez Blohm said part of diversity and inclusion is recognizing different people need different things. She said expanding online programs is expanding access to a Naropa education.

“We think we offer something different in the marketplace than any other institution, and prior to 2020, that opportunity was only available to those folks who live in Boulder,” Klotz said. “And so when I think about the future of Naropa, the future of our graduates who are healers, activists, scholars, leaders in the community having such a larger impact, I feel really good about that legacy and what’s to come.”

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