Online Master's in Education

Updated February 22, 2026 Table of Contents

Online master’s programs in education are designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree and want advanced training. Programs may emphasize specialized practice areas, leadership, or advanced methods depending on the school.

This page explains how master’s programs are structured, what coursework typically includes, and what to compare across schools.

$56,255 Median Earnings (1yr) College Scorecard
$29,724 Median Debt College Scorecard
2,864 Programs Reporting College Scorecard

Quick answers

What is an online master’s in education?

It is a graduate-level program that builds advanced education knowledge through online coursework.

What degree titles are common?

Common options include MEd or MA, depending on the institution and focus.

What types of master’s-level education programs are common?

Common options include general master’s programs, specialized tracks, and programs with elective concentrations.

What is typically included in the curriculum?

Most programs include a shared core before electives or concentrations, plus a capstone or thesis option.

What do admissions requirements usually include?

Most programs require a completed bachelor’s degree. Common elements include transcripts, a resume, and written statements.

What online formats and pacing options are common?

Programs may use standard term schedules, accelerated shorter terms, or part-time options with lighter course loads.

At a Glance

  • Degree type: Master of Education (MEd), Master of Arts (MA), or Master of Science (MS)
  • Typical duration: 1-2 years full-time
  • Credits: 30-36 semester hours
  • Median earnings (1yr): $56,255 (College Scorecard)
  • Median debt: $29,724 (College Scorecard)

Schools to compare

How we rank schools: Rankings are based on available IPEDS and College Scorecard data including graduation rate, admission rate, program availability, completions, and published tuition. Data is informational only -- always confirm details directly with each school.

#4

Arkansas Tech University

Russellville, AR In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 96%
Graduation rate 49%
Tuition
In‑state$8,508
Out‑of‑state$14,502
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 61

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#5

Washington University in St Louis

Saint Louis, MO In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 12%
Graduation rate 94%
Tuition
In‑state$62,982
Out‑of‑state$62,982
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 23

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#6

California State University-Northridge

Northridge, CA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 93%
Graduation rate 56%
Tuition
In‑state$7,095
Out‑of‑state$18,975
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 18

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#7

Western Michigan University

Kalamazoo, MI In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 85%
Graduation rate 56%
Tuition
In‑state$15,298
Out‑of‑state$19,098
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 35

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#8

Wichita State University

Wichita, KS In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 95%
Graduation rate 52%
Tuition
In‑state$9,322
Out‑of‑state$19,240
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 29

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

Typical topics in a master’s program

Course TopicWhat You Learn
Advanced Instructional StrategiesEvidence-based teaching methods for diverse learners
Curriculum and Assessment DesignDeveloping, aligning, and evaluating curricula and assessments
Educational Leadership or PolicySchool governance, policy analysis, and organizational change
Research Methods in EducationQuantitative and qualitative approaches to education research
Capstone or Thesis ProjectApplied research or practice-based project demonstrating mastery
Specialization ElectivesAdvanced coursework in a chosen concentration area

Skills and outcomes to compare

Outcomes vary by program, but you can compare:

  • Depth of specialization or practice area coverage
  • Applied project or practicum requirements
  • Research expectations or thesis options
  • Leadership, policy, or advanced method focus

For pacing and delivery comparisons, see: Online Course Formats

How to compare online master’s programs

  1. Identify the program type (general, specialized, or concentration-based).
  2. Review core curriculum and capstone requirements.
  3. Check concentrations and electives that fit your interests.
  4. Confirm admissions expectations and prerequisites.
  5. Compare online format and pacing options.
  6. Verify institutional accreditation before applying.
A master’s in education can qualify you for salary increases on many school district pay scales. Verify whether your state or district recognizes the specific degree type (MEd vs. MA) for salary advancement before enrolling.

Admissions requirements

Requirements vary by school, but most programs require a completed bachelor’s degree. Common elements include transcripts, a resume, and written statements. Some programs may request prerequisites or professional experience.

For a full checklist, see: Education Admissions Requirements

Master’s vs other education degree levels

LevelTypical Credits1yr Median Earnings5yr Median EarningsMedian Debt
CertificateVaries$28,038$28,396$15,762
Associate60$24,507$33,878$12,695
Bachelor’s120$42,026$47,588$23,352
Master’s30-36$56,255$63,222$29,724
DoctoralVaries$90,007$96,664$63,256

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, latest academic year.

Compare degree options:

For a value and fit discussion, see: Is an Education Degree Worth It

Back to Online Education Degree Programs

Return to Online Education Degree Programs