Our Students Before Profits Awards were created to promote nonprofit colleges and universities offering online degree programs that put students before profits and education before the bottom line.
For our Top Online Master’s in Education award winners, we selected online programs from accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities with objectively lower than average tuition cost and have ranked the programs according to their affordability.
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2026 Snapshot: Online Master’s in Education Programs at Nonprofit Colleges
Online enrollment in graduate education remains historically high in the post-COVID era, particularly among working teachers and education professionals seeking flexible pathways to advancement. At the same time, persistent teacher shortages and growing demand for instructional leaders, principals, and curriculum specialists are driving increased interest in master’s-level education programs nationwide.
Rising tuition costs across higher education make nonprofit affordability more important than ever, as educators look for high-quality programs that deliver career value without excessive debt. Employers, school districts, and state education agencies increasingly recognize and accept regionally accredited online M.Ed. degrees, viewing them as equivalent to on-campus programs when earned from reputable nonprofit institutions.
To reflect these trends, this ranking has been reviewed and updated for 2026, using the most current tuition and program data available, with continued emphasis on affordability, accreditation, and student-focused outcomes.
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While affordability, is our primary criteria when it comes to ranking these programs, many of these programs are consistently ranked among the top by other national publications and are considered among the best online master’s in education programs available.
Note that tuition rates listed below are based on cost per credit and individual programs may have additional fees.
Comparison Table: Top Online Master’s in Education Programs (Best Value, 2026)
| Rank | School | Estimated Online Tuition (Per Credit) | Credits Required | Delivery Format | Accreditation | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Appalachian State University | $304 | 36–39 | Hybrid/Online | SACSCOC | Best overall affordability & program variety |
| 2 | Fort Hays State University | $298 | 36–39 | Fully Online | HLC | Best for adult learners & distance students |
| 3 | Valdosta State University | $290 | 36–39 | Fully Online | SACSCOC | Best for diverse education concentrations |
| 4 | Arkansas State University | $299 | 30–36 | Fully Online | HLC | Best for fast completion (20 months) |
| 5 | University of Central Missouri | $299 | 30–32 | Online/Hybrid | HLC | Best for curriculum & instructional design |
| 6 | University of North Dakota | $384 | 32–36 | Online/Hybrid | HLC | Best for counseling & leadership tracks |
| 7 | University of Missouri (Mizzou) | $411 | 30–33 | Online/Hybrid | HLC | Best for research-driven education programs |
| 8 | Peru State College | $250 | 36 | Fully Online | HLC | Best budget-friendly cohort model |
| 9 | University of Nebraska–Kearney | $299 | 36 | Fully Online | HLC | Best for interactive online learning |
| 10 | Saint Joseph’s College of Maine | $435 | 33–36 | Fully Online | NECHE | Best for faith-based education professionals |
| 11 | Valley City State University | $350 | 35 | Fully Online | HLC | Best for technology-focused teaching |
| 12 | Western Governors University (WGU) | Flat-rate (~$4,000/term) | Competency-based | Fully Online | NWCCU | Best competency-based, self-paced model |
| 13 | University of Nebraska–Lincoln | $365 | 36 | Fully Online | HLC | Best for educational administration careers |
| 14 | Marshall University | $335 | 39 | Fully Online | HLC | Best for licensed teachers advancing credentials |
| 15 | Framingham State University | $410 | 30 | Online/Hybrid | NECHE | Best for STEM-focused teacher education |
How We Calculate the Tuition Score
Scores are based on tuition per credit, availability of in-state pricing online, required credits, and public cost data from NCES and university disclosures.
Who Should Consider an Online Master’s in Education?
An online Master’s in Education (M.Ed.) is designed for professionals who need flexibility without sacrificing academic quality or career outcomes. These programs are especially well suited for the following groups:
- Full-time teachers who want to advance their credentials while continuing to teach, using flexible asynchronous coursework that fits around the school day.
- Career switchers entering education who need a practical, accelerated pathway into teaching, instructional support, or education leadership roles.
- Instructional coaches and curriculum specialists seeking deeper expertise in curriculum design, assessment, learning technologies, or instructional leadership.
- Aspiring principals and administrators preparing for leadership, policy, and school management roles, often aligned with state licensure requirements.
- Teachers pursuing pay-scale advancement in districts where salary increases are tied to graduate credits or completion of a master’s degree.
- Military spouses and frequent relocators who need portable, regionally accredited programs that can be completed online regardless of location.
For educators balancing demanding schedules, geographic mobility, or long-term career growth goals, an online M.Ed. from a nonprofit, accredited institution offers a practical and respected path forward.
Ranking the Best Masters in Education Programs Online
#1. Appalachian State University
Appalachian State University, located in the city of Boone in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, prepares students to lead purposeful lives as global citizens who understand and engage their responsibilities in creating a sustainable future for all. ASU offers distance education programs in business, communication, healthcare, and education for working adults whose schedules do not permit them to undertake traditional studies at the Boone campus.
Online Masters in Education
Appalachian State University offers a wide variety of online master’s degree programs in education. These include programs in:
- Curriculum Specialist
- Educational Media
- Elementary Education
- Higher Education
- Middle Grade Education
- Reading Education
- School Administration
- Special Education
These programs utilize a combination of synchronous and asynchronous online learning and require between 36 and 39 credits for completion.
Accreditation: Appalachian State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
#2. Fort Hays State University
Enrolling over 15,000 students in programs leading to professional certificates, and degrees at the associate’s bachelor’s master’s, and doctoral levels, Fort Hays is a public University established in 1902 in Hays, Kansas. With about 40% of its student head count being located on its well developed virtual campus, Fort Hays State University is a true world leader in distance education, offering over 50 online degrees specifically designed for adult learners and was among the leaders in most categories of the inaugural U.S. News rankings for online education.
Online Masters in Education
Designed with the needs of working adults for flexibility, convenience, and educational quality in mind, the Department of Advanced Education Programs (AEP) at Fort Hays’ College of Education and Technology prepares students with innovative solutions to meet the challenges in their chosen fields of study. The Department offers a broad range of graduate programs completely online including programs in:
- building leadership (principal)
- high incidence special education
- English speakers of other languages
- gifted education
- instructional technology
- library media specialist
- reading specialist
Courses are offered entirely online and will include a unique combination of communication methods including Blackboard, Skype, videoconferencing, Google Apps for Education, Blogs, Wikis, YouTube and other innovative technologies.
Accreditation: FHSU is regionally accredited through the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The College of Education and Technology also holds specialized accreditation by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education.
#3. Valdosta State University
Located in Valdosta, Georgia, about half-way between Orlando and Atlanta, Valdosta State University is a comprehensive public university and one of three regional Universities in the University System of Georgia. Valdosta State University was founded in 1906 as a Normal College for the preparation of teachers in the region. In addition to traditional programs, VSU has well developed eLearning programs that provide strong support for students studying at a distance.
Online Masters in Education
VSU offers a wide variety of education Master’s degrees through online study including:
- M.Ed. in Adult and Career Education
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Early Childhood Education
- Health and Physical Education
- Middle Grades Math & Science
- School Counseling
- M.A in English Studies for Language Arts Teachers
- Master of Library and Information Sciences
These programs require between 36 and 39 credits minimum for completion, are conducted through an asynchronous online format and are designed around a professional education core that establishes a framework of knowledge in educational research, trends in education, and multicultural studies across curriculum.
Accreditation: VSU is regionally accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are nationally accredited through the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education.
#4. Arkansas State University
The second largest university in Arkansas, Arkansas State is a doctoral-level public institution for higher education with more than 150 degrees areas of study, including a robust online program, and a diverse student body from across the nation and the world. Arkansas State University is located in the town of Jonesboro Arkansas and focusing on its mission to educate leaders, enhance intellectual growth and enrich lives, it is the catalyst for progress in the state of Arkansas, the Delta and the Mid-South region.
Online Masters in Education
Arkansas State University offers a variety of fully online programs leading to a Master’s degree in education including programs in:
- Curriculum & Instruction
- Educational Leadership
- Gifted Education
- Educational Theory & Practice
- Reading, Special Education
- Early Childhood Education
These programs require between 30 and 36 credits and can be completed in as little as 20 months. Courses are tightly integrated and focused on application-based curriculum. Programs will qualify students for Arkansas licensure, but students seeking licensure outside of the State of Arkansas should verify that this program will meet their desired State’s licensure requirements.
Accreditation: Arkansas State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
#5. University of Central Missouri
Originally established as the Warrensburg Teacher’s College in 1871, the University of Central Missouri is a 4 year public university offering 150 areas of study, including 27 areas of teacher certification. UCM offers innovative online programs that bring the same quality of instruction directly to students wherever they are.
Online Masters in Education
The University of Central Missouri offers online degree programs leading to Master of Science in Elementary Education-Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Technology, and Library Science and Information Services as well as Master of Arts in Teaching. These programs require 30 or 32 credits minimum for completion. All of these programs are available fully online, while some have the option to take some courses in face-to-face format at the UCM summit center.
Accreditation: UCM is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. All teacher certification programs are nationally certified through NCATE.
#6. University of North Dakota
The University of North Dakota is a public research university located in Grand Forks, North Dakota. It is the oldest and largest university in the state of North Dakota. The university is classified by the Carnegie Foundation as having high research activity and offers 200+ fields of study. The University maintains its original mission in liberal arts, business, education, law, medicine, engineering and mines; and has also developed special missions in nursing, fine arts, aerospace, energy, human resources, and international studies. Additionally, UND offers 50+ online programs of study with convenient and flexible formats designed for working adults.
Online Masters in Education
UND offers a variety of online graduate programs of study in education through the College of Education and Human Development:
- Master of Arts in Counseling with a K-12 School Emphasis
- Master of Science in Early Childhood Education
- Master of Education in Educational Leadership
- Master of Science in Elementary Education
- Master of Education in English Language Learner Education
- M.Ed or M.S. in Instructional Design and Technology
- M.Ed. or M.S. in Reading Education
- Master of Science in Special Education
Depending on the program online courses may be offered either synchronously (live web classes) or asynchronously (courses accessed at anytime) and require between 32 and 36 credits for completion.
Accreditation: The University of North Dakota is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The College of Education and Human Development is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
#7. University of Missouri
The University of Missouri, or Mizzou, was the first public institution of higher learning west of the Mississippi and is currently the largest comprehensive University in the state. Founded in 1839, MU is one of the nations finest R1 research institutions and the first public university in the nation to establish a college specifically for the preparation of teachers. Mizzou’s extensive Online college offers 70 online degree options and more than 900 online courses.
Online Masters in Education
Mizzou Online offers a range of online master’s degrees in education through the College of Education by some of the leading researchers in teaching and learning in the country. Most programs are fully online, while a few require a number of campus visits to Columbia, MO, or classroom attendance in other locations. Programs include:
- Master’s degrees in Autism Education
- Early Childhood Education
- English Education
- Gifted Education
- Learning Technologies and Design
- Literacy Education
- Mathematics Education
- Online Education
- Social Studies Education
- Student Learning and Well Being
Accreditation: MU is regionally accredited through the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The University of Missouri college of Education is a member of the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC).
#8. Peru State College
Established in 1865 under the Methodist Episcopal Church, Peru State College is the first and oldest educational institution in Nebraska. The College offers a mix of innovative online and traditional classroom undergraduate and graduate programs, including online graduate degrees in education and organizational management.
Online Masters in Education
Peru State College offers, its Master of Science in Education-Curriculum and Instruction to individuals who wish to further their knowledge and skills in the field of education. Students can complete the Master of Science in Education in our Cohort or Regular format. Both programs are offered entirely online. The 36 credit degree includes core courses in Curriculum and Instruction with 4 different optional areas of focus in:
- Classroom Behavior and Management
- Instructional Mastery
- Inclusionary Practices and Policies
- Instructional Technology
Accreditation: Peru State is regionally accredited through the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools as well as being Nationally recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).
#9. University of Nebraska—Kearney
The University of Nebraska located in Kearney is a public university consisting of four colleges offering over 170 majors and 20 pre-professional programs. UNK focuses on the undergraduate experience while becoming an international destination for some key graduate and online programs.
Online Masters in Education
UNK offers a wide variety of online education master’s degrees in disciplines including:
- Art Education
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Educational Administration
- Instructional Technology
- Special Education
Online courses are highly interactive with faculty and students communicating through e-mail and discussion forums via the Canvas learning management software. To enhance the quality of online instruction, many courses use multimedia presentations, and streaming video. Programs require 36 credits for completion.
Accreditation: The University of Nebraska Kearney is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
#10. Saint Joseph’s College of Maine
Saint Joseph’s College is a Roman Catholic liberal arts college for men and women of all faiths and ages. Saint Joseph’s is located in the city of Standish, Maine. Saint Joseph’s College is a liberal arts college that nurtures intellectual, spiritual, and social growth in students of all ages and all faiths within a value-centered environment.
Online Masters in Education
Saint Joseph’s College Online offers a Master of Science in Education enabling teachers and administrators to expand their career opportunities in four distinct areas: public K-12 schools, Catholic schools, health care education, and adult training. Courses blend content with your professional experience, allowing for immediate application in your work setting. Courses are available to both students seeking the desired master’s degrees or those fulfilling or renewing certification requirements.
Accreditation: Saint Joseph’s is regionally accredited through the New England Association of Colleges and Schools.
#11. Valley City State University
Valley City State University is a public university and member of the North Dakota University System, enrolling over 1,300 students annually. Established as a Normal School, or Teacher’s College in 1890, VCSU still remains dedicated to producing some of the best educators in the upper Midwest with Education and Teaching being among the most popular majors. Online Master of Education and Master of Arts in Teaching degree programs are also available.
Program Overview
The online Master’s degrees in education at VCSU are designed to equip individuals with the necessary training for teacher certification or experienced teachers seeking to enhance their current skillsets as they advance in their careers. Six concentrations are available including:
- Teaching & Technology
- Technology Education
- Library & Information Technologies
- Teaching English Language Learners
- Elementary Education
- English Education
The degree requires 35 hours of coursework, an action research report, and an oral defense of a comprehensive portfolio for completion.
Accreditation: Valley City State University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and Nationally accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation for Teacher Education (NCATE).
#12. Western Governor’s University
Western Governors University is a private nonprofit, online university. Students at WGU work in coordination with faculty mentors online and through frequent phone communication, taking tests online which are proctored via webcam and other online proctoring technologies.
Program Overview
WGU’s Teachers College offers a wide variety of Masters degrees geared both toward those seeking first time certification and already licensed and practicing teachers. Degrees offered include many standard education degrees such as an M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction and M.Ed. in Instructional design, but also uniquely offers M.A. in Secondary Science Education with areas of emphasis on particular sciences (Chemistry, Physics, Biological Sciences, and Geosciences). This would be a an excellent choice for the practicing science teacher looking to take his or her teaching to the next level.
Accreditation: Western Governors University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and nationally by the National Council For Accreditation of Teacher Education.
#13. University of Nebraska—Lincoln
Lincoln is an internationally renowned teaching and research institution enrolling over 25,000 students. Through its three primary missions of teaching, research, and service, the university is the state’s primary intellectual center providing leadership throughout the state through quality education and the generation of new knowledge. Teaching, research, and service take on a distinctive character at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln because of its status as a comprehensive land-grant university.
Program Overview
UNL offers its Master’s of Educational Administration degree program online with concentrations in P-12 School Administration and Higher Education Administration. Both programs require 36 credits for completion. The P-12 program is designed for students seeking administrative endorsement as an elementary (P-8) or secondary (7-12) principal. Courses integrate School Leaders Licensure Standards to enable students to develop the principles, processes, and practical skills necessary for building-level administration and leadership. The higher education program is a generalist program for individuals interested in administrative positions in higher education.
Accreditation: The University of Nebraska Lincoln is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
#14. Marshall University
Located in Huntington, West Virginia, Marshall University is a public research university consisting of nine undergraduate colleges and three graduate schools. Marshall University is committed to infusing an international dimension into teaching, learning, research and service.
Program Overview
The Graduate College at Marshall University offers Master of Arts in Education programs in Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education each with a variety of concentrations. The programs do not provide endorsement for initial teacher licensure, and are designed for students who already hold a license.
Accreditation: Marshall University is regionally accredited through the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and nationally accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation for Teacher Education (NCATE).
#15. Framingham State University
Located in Framingham, Massachusetts, FSU has offered online courses since 1998 making it among the first Universities to experiment with E-learning and has been a leader in online learning since. The university enrolls around 6,500 students.
Program Overview
Framingham State University offers asynchronous (no scheduled class times), fully online, as well as hybrid online/on-campus Master of Education programs such as:
- Early Childhood Education
- Educational Technology
- Elementary Education
Accreditation: Framingham State University is regionally accredited by the New England Association of Schools and College.
#16. Emporia State University
Founded in 1863 as a Teachers’ College, Emporia State University was the first public institution of higher learning in Kansas and has been preparing teachers in nationally acclaimed teacher education programs since.
Program Overview
Online and Distance Education is an important part of Emporia State University’s program offerings, with many students participating in federal financial aid. ESU’s Distance Education is working in cooperation with the Department of Education and states’ agencies to comply with required authorizations so that ESU can continue to provide educational access to students across the country. A wide variety of master’s programs in education are offered through the Emporia State Teachers’ College each with its own unique and focused curriculum.
Accreditation: Emporia State University is regionally accredited through the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and the teacher education programs are nationally accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
#17. University of Colorado—Denver
Located in downtown Denver, Colorado, the University of Colorado—Denver is a public research university enrolling over 17,000 students. CU Denver is a diverse teaching and learning community that creates, discovers and applies knowledge to improve the health and well-being of Colorado and the world.
Program Overview
As the largest graduate School of Education in Colorado, the School of Ed is committed to developing forward-thinking educators and counselors who have a deep sense of critical inquiry, and the cultural competence needed to serve urban, diverse populations. The School offers multiple online Master’s programs in Education including a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction (with concentrations in Integrated Studies and Reading and Writing), a Master of Arts in Information and Learning Technologies with one of two concentrations: eLearning design and Implementation, or School Library, and a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education. These degrees require between 30 and 36 credits at minimum to complete the program. Note that the Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education, while an online degree, is limited to Colorado residents.
Accreditation: The University of Colorado—Denver is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, while the programs in education are nationally accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
#18. Columbia College
A private, non-profit, liberal arts and sciences college, Columbia College was originally founded as a Christian Female College in 1851 and was the first women’s college west of the Mississippi River to be chartered by a state legislature. CC maintains 34 satellite campuses nationwide in addition to the day and evening campus in Columbia, MO, and its online campus, and between them enrolls over 31,000 students.
Program Overview
The online college at Columbia offers both a Master of Arts in Teaching as well as a Master of Education in Educational Leadership both of which require 36 credits for completion. The MAT curriculum consists of three core classes, two student selected classes in each of three areas of Curriculum and Instruction, (Psychological and Philosophical Foundations and Measurement and Evaluation) and three additional elective courses. The M.Ed in Educational Leadership consists of two possible tracks, the Principal Track and the Instructional Leader Track. Note that students who reside outside of Missouri and plan to enroll in the Principal Track are responsible for verifying that the program meets requirements for licensure as a principal in their state.
Accreditation: Columbia College is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
#19. College of Saint Scholastica
Founded in 1912 by a small group of Benedictine nuns, the college enrolls over 4,000 students and provides intellectual and moral preparation for responsible living and meaningful work. As part of its mission to offer quality education to traditional and nontraditional students Scholastica offers a variety of online degree programs for working adults.
Program Overview
The online Master of Education is offered with six concentration options:
- Computer Science Education
- Culturally Responsive Pedagogy
- Educational Technology, Literacy Instruction
- Online Instruction
- Professional Studies
The program is a fully online degree program for practicing teachers and other education professionals and engages learners to reflect upon their teaching practices to improve student learning and address critical issues in today’s schools. Program curriculum is divided into two major components: a professional core of seven courses and a 12-credit elective focus. The program requires a minimum of 33 credits.
Accreditation: The College of Saint Scholastica is regionally accredited through the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The School of Education is also one of the first in the nation accredited under new national standards for teacher preparation programs. The School volunteered to be a pilot program for the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, which is the new body formed after two accrediting bodies, the Teacher education Accreditation Council, and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education, came together.
#20. University of West Florida
Established in 1963, the University of West Florida is a public university based in Pensacola, Florida with multiple satellite campuses throughout the region. UWF is home to five academic colleges, offering a variety of bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, as well as specialist degrees and a doctorate in education.
Program Overview
Online master’s degrees offered at UWF include a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, Instructional Design and Technology, and Reading as well as Master of Arts in Exceptional Student Education. These are individualized programs of study for the career development of individuals who teach and design curricula in public schools. These degrees require a minimum of 36 credits for completion. Online degrees may not be available in all states. If you are an out-of-state student, please review our State Authorization Status to confirm that the program is available in your state.
Accreditation: UWF is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Programs in Education are nationally accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Salary & Career Impact of a Master’s in Education (2026)
Earning a Master’s in Education continues to deliver strong career ROI in 2026, especially for educators working in public school districts with structured pay scales. In many districts, an M.Ed. leads to an immediate salary increase of $3,000–$10,000 per year, with additional raises tied to years of service and advanced credentials. Over a full career, this can translate into six-figure lifetime earnings gains compared to holding only a bachelor’s degree.
Beyond classroom teaching, an M.Ed. opens doors to higher-paying administrative and leadership pathways, including instructional coach, curriculum coordinator, assistant principal, principal, and district-level roles. Administrative positions often offer salary ranges of $80,000–$130,000+, depending on district size, location, and leadership responsibility.
Graduates are also increasingly moving into instructional design, learning experience design (LXD), and education technology (EdTech) roles, where salaries commonly range from $70,000–$110,000. These roles are growing rapidly as schools, universities, and corporate learning teams expand digital curriculum and online training initiatives.
Finally, the continued growth of online education and virtual school leadership is creating new opportunities for educators with graduate-level credentials. Positions such as online program director, virtual school administrator, and digital curriculum lead are expanding nationwide—making an online M.Ed. not only a flexible degree option, but a strategic credential for long-term career advancement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master’s in Education Programs (2026)
Are online Master’s in Education degrees respected?
Yes. Online Master’s in Education (M.Ed.) degrees from regionally accredited nonprofit or public colleges are widely respected by school districts, employers, and state education agencies. In most cases, the diploma does not distinguish between online and on-campus study.
Is regional accreditation required for teacher licensure?
Yes. Regional accreditation is critical for teacher licensure and salary advancement. Most state licensure boards only recognize degrees from regionally accredited institutions, and many also require programmatic approval through state education agencies.
How much does an online M.Ed. cost in 2026?
In 2026, online M.Ed. programs at nonprofit colleges typically cost $9,000–$22,000 total, depending on tuition per credit, program length, and state residency. Some public universities offer even lower in-state rates, while competency-based models may reduce total cost further.
Can I earn licensure online?
Often, yes, but with conditions. Many online M.Ed. programs offer licensure or endorsement tracks, but requirements vary by state. Clinical experiences, practicums, or internships are usually completed locally. Always verify that the program meets your state’s licensure requirements before enrolling.
How long does an online M.Ed. take?
Most online Master’s in Education programs take 18–24 months to complete. Accelerated formats may allow completion in as little as 12–15 months, while part-time students may take longer depending on course load.
Are competency-based M.Ed. programs available?
Yes, though they are less common than traditional formats. Schools like Western Governors University and select public universities offer competency-based or subscription-style M.Ed. programs, which allow students to progress faster by demonstrating mastery rather than completing fixed-length courses.
Is financial aid available for online education master’s programs?
Yes. Students enrolled in accredited online M.Ed. programs are typically eligible for federal financial aid, including Direct Unsubsidized Loans, Graduate PLUS Loans, and in some cases state grants, employer tuition reimbursement, and military education benefits.
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