The future of the country largely depends upon having a strong education system and educating our children well. The foundation of a strong education system rests in the hands of educational professionals who lead our schools and classrooms.
Educational professionals who earn their master’s degree in education will have the tools and experience to lead our educational system and prepare our youth for the future.
Depending upon where you go to school and your interests, you will have the option of getting a master’s in education in a variety of concentrations. For example, you can get a master’s in education in the following specialties:
- Administration
- Adult education and training
- Curriculum and instruction
- Elementary education
- Secondary teacher education
- Special education
After earning your master’s in education, you can possibly work in the following careers:
- Principal: If you get a master’s degree in educational administration, you could work as an elementary, middle or high school principal. You will be in charge of managing all school operations and hiring teachers. Further, you will coordinate curricula, oversee the performance of teachers and various other administrative staff. Your most important duty is to provide a productive and safe learning environment for all of your students.
- Special education teacher: Earning a concentration in special education will have you working with students who have many different emotional and learning disabilities. You will need to adapt regular educational lessons and teach different subjects in a way that your students can understand. You will be teaching reading, writing, mathematics and other basic educational subjects.
- Instructional coordinator: If you decide to focus your education degree on curriculum, you could be in charge of overseeing school curriculas and teaching standards. These professionals develop instructional materials, coordinate how they are implemented with principals and teachers, and assess whether the curricula are effective in educating students.
Why Earn a Master’s in Education?
To become a K-12 teacher, it is not generally a requirement in the US to have a master’s degree in education. However, many educators in the United States do decide to earn their master’s degree.
Going to graduate school as an educator is a good opportunity to enhance your education as a teacher or other educational professional. Researchers are always determining new ways to more effectively integrate academic teaching and theories, meaning that you will be able to improve your teaching skills with your master’s degree.
Many education experts argue that a bachelor’s program does not provide teachers and other educational professionals with enough background and comprehension of how educational theories integrate with and increase the strength of teaching practices.
A master’s in education has other more tangible benefits as well. Most school districts will offer you at least a 5% to 10% raise when you earn your master’s degree. Also, you can expect to be able to transition into more educational leadership positions, especially if you earn a master’s in education in administration or leadership.
Jump to a Masters of Education Track
- General Education
- Administration & Leadership
- Adult Education
- Curriculum & Instruction
- Special Education
- Early Childhood
- Teaching/M.A.T
- Instructional & Education Technology
- ESL/TESOL
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Why a Master’s in Education?
Curriculum and Courses
Students who want to earn a master’s in education online in a variety of disciplines may consider *Liberty University. This online university will prepare you for advanced teaching and leadership roles in public and private school systems. The coursework will provide focused training for educators who want to improve their teaching skills or want to advance their educational career in another way.
This master’s in education program requires you to take a set of core classes that will improve your educational foundation. Then you can take specialization courses in areas such as administration and supervision, teaching and learning, school counseling and more.
This program consists of 36 total credit hours and you may transfer up to 12 hours from another university. If you are seeking your teaching license, you must complete a three credit hour educational internship.
Required courses in the Administration speciality include:
- Learning Theory
- Understanding Educational Research and Assessment
- Foundations of Exceptionality
- Foundations for Educational Leaders
- Curriculum Development
- School Administration
- School Community Relations
- School Law
- School Finance and Management
General Education
The following schools offer a general asters of Education degree online without the GRE requirement. Request more information for enrollment details and tuition.
- Master Degree in Education – *Post University
- M.S. in Education – *Kaplan University
- M.Ed. in Teaching & Learning – *Liberty University
- Master of Arts in Education – *University of the Rockies
- Masters in Teaching & Learning – *Colorado State University Global Campus
Administration & Leadership Online
If you are interested in becoming a principal or another type of educational leader, you should consider a focus on education administration and leadership. With a focus on administration and leadership, you will study about how to translate theories on effective leadership and educational administration into practice at the individual school level. Through the coursework in this master’s in education, you will develop the leadership, management and problem solving skills that you need to become a highly effective and innovative school leader. *Indicates featured partner schools
Recommended Options
The following schools offer accredited Masters of Education in Administration & Leadership without the GRE requirement. Request more information for enrollment details and tuition.
- MA in Education & Human Development in Educational Leadership & Admin – *The George Washington University
- Master of Arts in Educational Leadership – *Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
- Master of Education in Teacher Leadership – *University of Louisville
- Master Degree in Educational Leadership -*Concordia University – Portland
- MS Education in Educational Leadership – *University of New England
- Master of Education in Educational Administration – *Grand Canyon University
- Master of Education in Administration and Supervision – *Liberty University
- Accelerated Educational Leadership-MEd – *Northcentral University
- Educational Leadership – Master of Education – *Northcentral University
- Master of Science in Educational Leadership – *Cardinal Stritch University
- MEd in Instructional Leadership – Conflict Resolution Track – *Abilene Christian University
- MEd in Instructional Leadership – Learning with Emerging Technologies – *Abilene Christian University
- MS in Instructional Leadership – *Abilene Christian University
- Master of Science in Higher Education Administration – University of Dayton
- Master of Educational Administration – University of Scranton
- Master of Higher Education Administration – Stony Brook University
- Master of Educational Leadership – NYU Steinhardt
- Master of Science in Educational Leadership – Indiana University
- Master of Educational Administration – Seattle University
- Master of Educational Administration – University of Scranton
- Master of Educational Leadership – University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Master of Science in Higher Education – Drexel University
- Master of Science in Educational Administration – Emporia State University
- Master of Education in Educational Leadership – University of South Florida
- Master of Arts in Educational Administration – University of Wyoming
- Master of Education in Educational Leadership – Southern New Hampshire University
- Master of Science in Education – Fort Hays State University
- Master of Science in Educational Administration – Drexel University
Adult Education Online
Given the increased need for adult English education, and the need for businesses and organizations to tighten their financial belts, training of workers is more important than ever before. That is why a career in adult education with a master’s degree in education is such an attractive option. There is a higher demand for adult education professionals in higher education organizations, universities, adult learning centers, community centers and corporate training organizations. *Indicates featured partner schools
Recommended Options
The following schools offer accredited Online Masters of Education degrees without the GRE requirement. Request more information for enrollment details and tuition.
- Master of Science in Adult Education – *Capella University
- Master of Education – Adult Education and Development – Strayer University
- Master of Education in Adult Education – Colorado State University
- Master of Arts in Adult Education – Kansas State University
- Master of Arts in Adult and Postsecondary Education – University of Wyoming
- Master of Arts in Adult and Community Education – Ball State University
- Master of Arts in Higher, Adult and Lifelong Education (HALE) – Michigan State University
- Master of Science in Adult Education – Florida International University
Curriculum & Instruction Online
A no GRE, master’s in education in curriculum and instruction will help you to greatly improve your skills in curriculum and instruction in the K-12 education field. Programs in this specialty will apply current theory, research and technology to curriculum design and instructional models. In most of these no GRE online programs, you will have the opportunity to create a professional curriculum portfolio to show to potential employers. *Indicates featured partner schools
Recommended Options
The following schools offer accredited Online Masters of Education degrees without the GRE requirement. Request more information for enrollment details and tuition.
- M.Ed: Curriculum & Instruction: Leadership -*Concordia University – Portland
- Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction – *Capella University
- Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – *Concordia University Portland
- Master of Education in Curriculum and Teaching – *Northcentral University
- Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – *Grand Canyon University
- Master’s of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction – UMassOnline
- Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction – University of Nebraska
- Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – LSU Shreveport University
- Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Western New England University
- Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction – Kansas State University
Special Education Online
If your teaching passion is to instruct students with special needs, then you will need to earn your master’s degree in special education. Advanced degree programs will ready you with the tools and the knowledge that you need to be ready for the challenges of providing education to students who have a variety of learning, emotional, behavioral or physical disabilities. *Indicates featured partner schools
Recommended Options
The following schools offer accredited Online Masters of Education degrees without the GRE requirement. Request more information for enrollment details and tuition.
- Masters in Special Education for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Learners – *The George Washington University
- Master of Science in Education in Special Ed – *Purdue University
- M.Ed. in Advanced Study in Special Education -*Concordia University – Portland
- Master of Science in Special Education – *Capella University
- Special Education – Master of Education – *Northcentral University
- Master of Education in Special Education – *Grand Canyon University
- Master of Arts in Special Education – *Liberty University
- Master of Education in Special Education – *Northcentral University
- Master of Education in Special Education – Regent University
- Master of Arts in Special Education – Michigan State University
- Master of Arts in Special Education – University of Arizona
- Master of Education in Autism Education – Slippery Rock University
Early Childhood Education Online
A master’s degree in early childhood education will help you to fully understand all of the stages of child development, and how you can create strong learning environments for your students. You also will learn how to come up with appropriate curriculum and instruction to encourage individual and group education, reflection, critical thinking and development of new skills. *Indicates featured partner schools
Recommended Options
The following schools offer accredited Online Masters of Education degrees without the GRE requirement. Request more information for enrollment details and tuition.
- Master of Science in Education – Early Childhood Education – *Capella University
- Master of Education in Early Childhood Education – *Grand Canyon University
- Master of Education – Teaching and Learning – Early Childhood – *Liberty University
- Master of Education – Early Childhood Education – University of Toledo
- Master of Education in Early Childhood Education – Northern Arizona University
- Master of Education in Early Childhood Education – Indiana University
- Master of Education in Early Childhood Development – Central Florida University
- Master of Education in Early Childhood Education – Auburn University
Teaching/MAT Online
A master’s degree in teaching or MAT degree is typically a Master of Arts in Education that is geared towards an experienced K-12 teacher who wants to improve their teaching skills and to be eligible for higher pay. These programs are usually designed to help you to gain a broader teaching perspective by discussing current teaching practices, learning new teaching methods, and implementing new findings directly into the classroom. You will find it very beneficial in your current classroom to be in a Master of Teaching program, as you have the chance to integrate what you learn directly into your daily work. *Indicates featured partner schools
Recommended Options
The following schools offer accredited Online Masters of Education degrees without the GRE requirement. Request more information for enrollment details and tuition.
- Masters of Arts in Teaching – *USC Rossier School of Education
- Master of Arts in Teaching – *Liberty University
- Master of Arts in Teaching – *Western Governors University
- Master of Arts in Teaching – NOVA Southeastern University
- Master of Arts in Teaching and Curriculum – Michigan State University
- Master of Arts in Teaching – University of Maryland
- Master in the Art of Teaching – Marygrove College
- Master of Arts in Teaching – University of Tampa
Instructional & Educational Technology Online
A master’s of education in instructional and educational technology readies teachers, administrators and other types of educational professionals to use technology to support better teaching and learning in a diverse set of educational environments. These programs focus on the most modern theories of learning and development so that you can better understand and use technology in teaching and instruction. Earning this specialized master’s degree in education is a great choice for both the experienced teacher and the new teaching professional. *Indicates featured partner school
Recommended Options
The following schools offer accredited Online Masters of Education degrees without the GRE requirement. Request more information for enrollment details and tuition.
- Master of Education in Learning Design and Tech – Saint Marys University of Minnesota
- Master of Science in Education – *Capella University
- Master of Education in Educational Technology – *Liberty University
- Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology – *Saint Marys University of Minnesota
- Master of Arts in Instructional Technology – University of South Florida
- Master of Education in Educational Technology – University of Texas – Brownsville
- Masters of Education in Instructional Technology – University of Akron
- Master’s in Instructional Design and Technology – St. Joseph’s University
- Master of Science in Educational and Instructional Technology – National University
- Master of Arts in Educational Technology – Fairfield University
- Master of Educational Technology – Boise State University
- Master of Science in Instructional Technology – Kent State University
- Masters of Education in Educational Technology – The College of St. Scholastica
- Master of Science in Educational Technology (MSET) – Dakota State University
- Master of Arts in Educational Technology – Central Michigan University Online
ESL/TESOL Online
Earning a master’s degree in education with a focus on ESL or TESOL will provide you with the tools you need to teach people how to read, write and speak in English. Many programs are available both for the inexperienced and the veteran teacher. Generally, these programs are intended for teachers at all levels of education – primary, secondary and post secondary schools. You also can earn your master’s in ESL/TESOL to teach adults English, as well. Earning this degree is appropriate for teaching English both in the US and abroad. *Indicates featured partner schools
Recommended Options
The following schools offer accredited Online Masters of Education degrees without the GRE requirement. Request more information for enrollment details and tuition.
- MA/TESOL – International Practicum – *Concordia University Chicago
- MA/TESOL – General – *Concordia University Chicago
- MA/TESOL- *Emporia State University
- Master of Arts in TESOL – *Grand Canyon University
- Master of Arts in English as a Second Language – Hamline University
- Master of Education in TESOL – Seattle University
- Master of Education in TESOL – Messiah College
- Master of Arts in Teaching English as a Second Language – West Chester University
- Master of Education in ESL – The College of New Jersey
- Master of Education in TESOL – University of South Florida
- Master of Arts in English – TESL – Minnesota State University
- Master of Arts in TESOL – San Jose State University
- Master of Arts in TESOL – Gonzaga University
- Master of Arts in English – TESOL – Central Washington University
- Master of Arts in Education: English as a Second Language – Dominican University
Job and Salary Outlook
- Special Education Teacher — Employment in this field will grow by 6% by 2024. This is average when compared to other jobs, but the total number of special education teachers will depend upon which part of the country it is and the exact type of special education teacher. Today there is better screening of disabilities in children. Therefore some districts could see more demand for special education teachers as there are more students being identified with special needs. Employment also will vary by state and depend upon local budgets. Median salary is $56,800.
- Principal — Employment in this field will rise by 6% by 2024, which is about average. In cities and states with more growth, it is expected that there will be faster growth as more students are moving into these areas. Some areas of the country also will see more growth as principals are retiring and they need to be replaced. Principals that have many years of teaching experience are often the most sought after because they have the ability to understand the daily lives of teachers and students. Median salary is $59,000.
- Instructional Coordinator — Employment for instructional coordinators will increase by 7% by 2024. Employment growth should be experienced in areas where schools are focusing on improving the curriculum and the effectiveness of teachers. More school districts are coming under pressure to improve performance to continue to receive funding from the federal government. Many states and school districts also are using test scores and rates of graduation to evaluate the effectiveness of curricula. The median salary is $62,000.
Scholarships and Grants
Earning a master’s degree in education can be a great kickstart to your career. And you can get help with tuition and other costs with these grants and scholarships:
- TEACH Grant: This is a federal program that will provide teachers with a grant of up to $4000 per year if they are earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree in education. To receive the grant, you must agree to teach in a high need field or in a school with a large number of low income students. You need to complete at least four years of this work to receive the monies as a grant.
- Lesley University: This online university offers several master’s in education programs, and it also offers a number of scholarships that can help to fund your college expenses. These include the Anne Larkin Scholarship for special needs educators, and the Elementary Education Urban Initiative Scholarship.
Resources
These resources can be helpful as you are considering your master’s in education:
- School Superintendents Association: If you are planning an educational administration career, you should use this association as a resource for education and networking.
- National Education Association: This is the largest education association in the US. It is a great resource for new and experienced educators who want to improve their skills, education, and general network with like minded professionals.
Additional Links
- How to Choose a Graduate Degree Online
- Is a Master’s Degree Considered a Graduate Degree?
- Things You Can Do with Masters in Education
- Accreditation for Online Graduate Education
- 50 Awesome Things You Can Do with a MAT Degree
- Different Types of Education Degrees
- Why Get a Masters in ESL/TESOL
- Online MAT Programs & Degrees