2025 Most Popular Master's in Education Online
Our list of popular master’s in education online programs features accredited schools ranked by the number of online graduates, helping you identify where students are most successful.
Key Takeaways:
- National University ranks #1 for online master’s in education graduates, reporting 653 graduates in the most recent year.
- UMass Global produces education master's students with the best median earnings at $91,259, placing graduates among the top 2% nationally.
- Western Governors University is the most popular online school overall, with nearly 50,000 remote students enrolled.
You can review our methodology page to learn more about how we rank schools. We also spoke with Joel Butterly, CEO & Founder of InGenius Prep, who explains how online students in this field can be successful.
2025 Most Popular Master's in Education Online
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| National University | 653 | $23,868 | $80,284 | N/A | |
| Eastern Washington University | 290 | $15,925 | $74,244 | 92% | |
| Lamar University | 288 | $15,986 | N/A | 81% | |
| Fort Hays State University | 192 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $6,095 | $55,566 | 82% | |
| Western Governors University | 156 | $8,250 | $55,251 | 74% | |
| Columbia College - SC | 150 | $18,000 | $50,843 | 60% | |
| California State University - Sacramento | 131 | $16,950 | $90,404 | 93% | |
| American College of Education | 107 | $5,992 | N/A | 67% | |
| Augustana University - SD | 98 | $12,599 | $63,222 | 100% | |
| UMass Global | 96 | $10,950 | $91,259 | 70% | |
| University of West Alabama | 94 | $6,435 | N/A | 81% | |
| Capella University | 83 | $15,066 | $64,731 | 76% | |
| Colorado State University - Pueblo | 75 | $8,930 | $51,858 | 67% | |
| Central Washington University | 68 | $27,263 | N/A | 90% | |
| Texas A&M International University | 2 | $33,990 | N/A | 95% |
Analyzing Our List of The Best Online Master’s in Education
Online master’s degrees in education are widely available, but not all programs offer the same outcomes, flexibility, or support. To determine which options truly stand out, we analyzed 15 of the most popular online education master’s programs in the U.S., using real graduate counts as our ranking metric. These rankings are not based on prestige or promotional claims — they reflect how many students are successfully completing each program.
Below, we also provide additional insight from median earnings, recommendation rates from over 90,000 verified student surveys, and indicators of institutional strength such as online enrollment, retention, and graduation rates.
Recommendation Rates: A Measured Signal of Student Satisfaction
Across our dataset, recommendation rates range from 49% to 95%. This is a wide spread that speaks volumes about the lived experience of students in these online schools. These rates are based on more than 90,000 survey responses collected over the years and represent one of the clearest indicators of student satisfaction and perceived value.
At the top, Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) stands out with a 95% recommendation rate, followed closely by California State University - Sacramento (CSUS) at 93% and Eastern Washington University (EWU) at 92%.
Below are some of the schools from our list hosting education master's degrees, which show a consistent delivery of a high-quality experience.
Central Washington University (CWU) and Lamar University also perform well, with 90% and 82% recommendation rates respectively. Recommendation rates alone do not capture every nuance — particularly in specialized programs where expectations may be higher or outcomes more individualized — but they do provide a helpful perspective that allows you to evaluate actual student experiences.
Program-Level Earnings: Concrete Evidence of Career Impact With an Education Master's Program
While many universities promote generalized post-graduation earnings, our analysis relies on program-specific salary data — median earnings for graduates of each exact degree. This data point can be helpful for educators seeking clarity about their return on investment, especially in a field where salary ceilings can be limited without advanced credentials.
Among the top performers, UMass Global and CSUS report median earnings of $91,259 and $90,404, respectively — placing them in the top 2% of all programs nationally for education master’s outcomes. Both institutions focus on curriculum and instructional leadership, and both operate with a clear alignment to state credentialing systems, which likely contributes to their graduates’ strong labor market positioning.
Lower earnings are not always a reflection of program quality. In the case of University of West Alabama (UWA) and TAMIU, which do not report earnings data, the programs are focused on highly specialized roles such as dyslexia therapy or bilingual education. These are fields where public service and impact are more often prioritized over salary.
Still, prospective students should look at these earnings not as abstract rankings but as signals of where a program’s curriculum leads — into administration, instructional design, policy roles, or specialized intervention — and how that translates to compensation.
Avoiding Isolation, Building Capacity: Expert Advice for Online Education Master's Students
CEO of InGenius Prep
"Students who enroll in online programs can study from their classroom without leaving their educational environment. Students who fail to create a peer network will experience academic isolation as their main challenge.
The current educational landscape features three main trends which include:
AI-based teaching methods
Academic honesty standards
Fair access to challenging academic content.
The essential competencies for success include curriculum alignment and assessment literacy and coaching skills that enable teachers to convert standards into classroom practices.
Leaders must assess educational tools based on their learning objectives while making sure support systems reach students who have faced discrimination in education. Students should select programs which focus on research techniques and teaching methods and educational legislation."
EXPERT TIP
"Your portfolio should present evidence-based outcome improvements through de-identified statistical data and clear documentation methods. You should request input from mentors and peers to enhance the validity of your work. Your ability to think like a scholar and lead like a leader becomes evident through this approach."
FAQs About a Master's in Education Online
What Is a Master's in Education Degree?
A masters in education online is a flexible way to advance your career and learn more in-depth techniques regarding curriculum design, technology integration, and educational leadership. These programs allow you to balance work while preparing for the changing educational landscape through innovative teaching methods and policy analysis.
The abbreviation used for a master's degree in education depends on the specific degree. Some schools offer Master of Education degrees, abbreviated as MEd. Other schools offer Master of Science (MS) in Education degrees or Master of Arts (MA) in Education degrees.
Generally speaking, master's in education degrees are designed to prepare graduates for careers in education outside of the classroom. The courses in these programs typically emphasize curriculum and instruction development, learning design, and the application of evidence-based research.
Leadership is another common element of most education master's programs, enabling graduates to take on higher-level roles in education. However, there are also master's programs that are focused entirely on educational leadership.
Although it is possible to earn a generalist education master's degree, many schools encourage or require students to choose an area of concentration. Some of the many specializations available include literacy, educational technology, global education, diversity and inclusion, multilingual students, special education, gifted and talented students, adult education, and human resources.
Depending on the school, a master's in education program may lead to a Master of Education (MEd), Master of Science (MS), or Master of Arts (MA) degree. Although there are many similarities among the three, MEd programs often put a greater emphasis on developing administrative and managerial skills while MA and MS programs focus on curriculum development.
A similar degree to explore is an online master's in educational leadership. If you want the most cost-effective degree, check out our list of affordable online master's programs in teaching.
What Are the Requirements and Timeline for Earning an Online Master’s in Education?
Prospective students can choose between earning a master's in education degree online or in person. Either type of program requires the completion of 30-36 credit hours. In general, full-time students often earn this degree in two years, while part-time students may need three years. There are also a few schools that offer accelerated online programs, allowing students to earn their degree in less than two years. To accomplish this, students take back-to-back courses during shorter terms that may last only seven or eight weeks.
To be accepted into an on-campus or online education master's program, applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited university. Depending on the school, they may need to have maintained a minimum GPA of perhaps 2.8 or higher. Some programs also require enrollees to have a teaching credential and some teaching experience.
With most programs, an applicant's bachelor's degree doesn't necessarily have to be in a related subject, such as a teaching degree, elementary education degree, or secondary education degree. However, incoming students without any previous experience in education may need to take several prerequisites.
Many schools of education ask for transcripts, a statement of purpose, one or two letters of recommendation, and a resume along with an application. Some schools also require test scores, such as GRE scores.
What Courses Will You Take in an Online Master’s in Education Program?
In a master's in education online program, graduate learners can expect to take a wide variety of classes. Below are some examples of the common core courses:
- Family-Centered Education: Research shows that young students perform better academically when their families and communities are involved in the educational process. This course helps master's students understand the power of building supportive relationships, and it allows students to develop effective communication and collaboration skills that enhance the learning environment.
- Instructional Design: In this course, master's students practice using several different instructional design models to develop competency-based instructional materials. This hands-on course requires students to apply their knowledge to real-world situations.
- Learning Theories and Teaching Strategies: This course introduces a number of important learning theories and explores the instructional strategies that can be derived from them. Coursework may cover topics such as coaching classroom teachers, assessment practices, and the use of technology in instruction.
- Applied Research Project: The capstone to many programs is a semester-long project involving primary and secondary research into an education problem chosen by the student, usually related to the student's concentration or specialization. The purpose of this project is to give learners an opportunity to apply what they've learned about data collection, experimental design, data analysis, and evidence-based recommendations.
What Can You Do With a Master's in Education?
For those who want to work in the education field but not necessarily as a classroom teacher, a master's in education may be the stepping stone to alternative leadership roles in the field. Depending on your career goals, a master's degree can also lead to additional education.
To be eligible for the highest-level roles in education, you may want to pursue one of two types of terminal degrees in this field:
- A Doctor of Education (EdD) in Education or an Educational Leadership doctorate program is designed to give graduates the skills they need to take on education administration roles at the regional or state level. In addition to enhancing their managerial abilities, EdD students learn to use data and evidence to solve problems in the education system.
- A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education explores the process of learning. A PhD is usually the better choice for those interested in working in academia where they can conduct research on issues in education.
Another way to enhance your knowledge in a particular aspect of education without pursuing another degree is to earn a postgraduate certificate in education. Educational leadership, digital learning, special education, and literacy are just a few of the many subjects you can explore. These programs usually require 9-12 credit hours, and they can often be completed in less than a year.
No matter what level of degree you want to earn, you can save money with online programs. Discover our rankings of the most affordable doctorates in education.
Although some students who earn a master's in education degree follow a teaching career path, most prefer to work in education behind the scenes.
One possibility is to take on an administrative role as a school principal. These professionals manage their schools' staff and facilities, including overseeing schedules, maintenance, and security. They also communicate with students and their families to support collaborative student learning and assessment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), earn a median salary of $104,070.
Another option is to focus on developing curricula for a school by working as an instructional coordinator. Also known as learning or curriculum specialists, instructional coordinators support teachers by identifying educational resources, recommending teaching strategies, and training teachers to use new programs and materials. earn a median salary of $74,720 per year.
What Licensure Requirements Should You Know Before Starting an Online Master’s in Education?
Generally speaking, most states require all professionals who work directly with children to obtain some type of state-issued license or credential. Each state has its own licensure criteria in terms of education, prior work experience, and exams.
A degree from an accredited program is likely one of your state's requirements, which is why our list of the best online master's in education degrees only contains institutionally accredited programs. These programs may be accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) or a similarly authorized agency.
Before enrolling in any master's program, check with your state's education board to determine all of the qualifications you'll need to obtain a license to practice the occupation you have in mind. Also take care to select a program that will prepare you to meet your state's requirements, not the criteria for the state where your school is located.
Is a Master’s in Education Worth It?
Only you can decide whether a master's in education is worth it, including the money and time you will have to invest. However, the advanced skills and knowledge you acquire while earning this degree should prepare you for rewarding roles that often feature higher salaries. Having a master's degree will also make you more competitive in the job market.
In the education field, you have many opportunities to earn an advanced degree. Choosing a master's in education with a specific concentration will allow you to zero in on the exact aspect of education that interests you most. By earning the degree online, you'll have more flexibility in your schedule and the freedom to choose the best program for your career goals without having to relocate.
Student Reviews of Online Education Programs
Capella's online format seems perfect for the fulltime teacher, however their lack of communication, response, and clarity regarding the number of classes needed to reach requirements for financial aid, semester/ billing start and end dates, and credits required versus credits attainable through coursework is beyond frustrating. Initially, I did not have any issues with their FlexPath program, but over time it has become one issue after another, with extensive hold times to speak to someone regarding... Read More
Review Date: 6/23/2023
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
My experience at Aspen University began positively but unfortunately deteriorated over time. Initially, I appreciated the flexibility and student support. However, several key issues ultimately led to my decision to pursue my education elsewhere.
The program suffers from an extremely low student population, with myself and only one other learner. This lack of peers hindered collaborative learning and the exchange of diverse perspectives. Furthermore, the professor's participation was minimal, despite... Read More
The program demonstrated a concerning lack of flexibility, support, and responsiveness. This lack of responsiveness created significant obstacles to my academic progress and overall learning experience.
Due to these cumulative factors, I have decided to transfer to a university with a stronger reputation for standardization, student support, and a more robust learning environment. I believe this decision will provide me with the necessary resources and support to achieve my academic goals effectively.
I urge Aspen University to address these concerns by:
* Actively recruiting and retaining students to foster a more vibrant and collaborative learning community.
* Increasing professor participation and engagement, particularly in scenarios with low student enrollment.
* Prioritizing student support services and offering greater flexibility to accommodate diverse learning needs.
By implementing these improvements, the program can enhance the educational experience for future students.
Review Date: 10/8/2024
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
As a Walden University alumni, I have grown in the field of education. I learned to work collaboratively a.d cooperatively with group members and colleagues. I also learned how to implement social changes in my environment and the wider world at-large. Walden University has impacted my life positively.
Review Date: 5/11/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The overall teaching and learning experience was excellent. The university offers flexible ways to learn, provides a caring support team that helped me every step of the journey to stay on track. I was taught by competent and respected professionals who provoked critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and encouraged me to become a catalyst for positive social change.
Review Date: 1/14/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
For the most part, My experience was extremely professional and rewarding. The timely responses of my professors improved my ability to produce improved responses to my assignments. Despite my family and financial challenges, I was able to endure to the end with the full support of the financial team and most importantly for me most of my professors. My time at Walden University will always remain etched in my mind as my most rewarding experience.
Review Date: 8/18/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I would recommend Walden University to anyone who wants to study while working. The course content is relevant and their commitment to promoting social change adds value to the experience. I can personally attest to the support from faculty, advisors, library - every arm of the organization. Well worth it!!
Review Date: 8/5/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am surprised to see less-than-stellar reviews full of complaints. This school has fast-paced program; however, the workload each week is manageable for me (I have one full-time job, as well as two part-time jobs). I'm even involved in community activities, and I can still find time every day to complete my work. The professor in my current course is attentive, helpful, and provides useful feedback. If someone doesn't have a productive routine and does not have writing skills at the college/university... Read More
Review Date: 4/30/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
After significant long research and comparison, I decided to go to Liberty to do my master's degree in teaching. LU was great until I did a few classes and was close to my student teaching. They started to ask for lots of different tests that my state doesn’t require and additional courses that nobody mentioned before. Their requirements are more challenging and complicated. Also, they have various gates that are hard to understand, and nobody available to explain them to you since you can only contact... Read More
Review Date: 9/12/2020
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I started my M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning at Bryan College in January 2017. I'm taking all online classes and am considered a part-time student. The two main reasons for choosing Bryan College is because 1) they offered the degree I was interested in completely online and 2) it is a Christian based school. I am currently a high school SPED teacher and with my degree I am hoping to increase my level of certifications and become fully certified in my field. The classes are very rigorous but you know... Read More
Review Date: 6/27/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Communication with staff is nonexistent, courses are mind numbing, faculty members are non-responsive. When you are first interested the admissions staff calls almost daily and makes you feel incredibly welcome. As soon as you enroll you are left adrift, and you realize that was actually the sales department. There appears to be no hierarchy of services, no department supervision, and no one to bring concerns to, so frustration and powerlessness abound. Save your money and look elsewhere.
Review Date: 4/18/2020
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I chose WGU because it was the best option for my life. My husband is in the military and moving around is a constant thing we have to deal with. WGU has been great because it let me work at my own pace. I liked that I had the freedom to finish as many classes as I could in a term. During my last term with WGU I have found to really dislike the many “support systems” offered. As WGU required, my mentor had to call me once a week or once every other week. They were pointless calls 99% of the time.... Read More
Review Date: 1/7/2020
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
school is great. program is great. organization and information you are told about classes to register for, etc. do it yourself. they will not help and each person will tell you different information. extremely frustrating. .........................................................................................................................................................................................................
Review Date: 2/15/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I had been looking into Master's online programs for several years. I chose Concordia University because they were so helpful with enrolling and figuring out how to afford the program. I am half way through my year long program. I am loving the experience. Most of my professors have been knowledgeable, rigorous, and supportive. I have learned so much that has and will make me a better prepared teacher, that will be well educated and informed to better help my students be successful. The whole process... Read More
Review Date: 3/22/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Excellent education. Thorough and informative.
Review Date: 5/23/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
This school is very affordable for an online Masters program for teachers. Some of the classes are wonderful and some of the professors are helpful. Other professors seem to forget that this is a program for full-time working professionals. Some also are not good "teachers", rather they put links to YouTube videos up or expect you to read the text with instant understanding of things like statistics regardless of your prior knowledge of the subjects.
Review Date: 2/13/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Excellent education programs for working adults. I taught full-time while completing this program and it wasn't easy, but the effort paid off. The main reason why I enrolled at WGU was to earn academic credits so that I would get pay raises with my employer, and I ended up learning a lot about educational technology too. I would return to WGU again.
Review Date: 6/24/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The Science and the Public program is intended for those who are already teachers (no one will tell you this). It doesn't prepare you for any job, but I suppose could bump you up a pay bracket if you're an already-established teacher. It doesn't have any active teaching/shadowing requirements, doesn't prepare you for a certificate. It's entirely online, which is convenient, but the trade-off is that there is very little oversight and support for you (even from your thesis advisor!). Education is... Read More
Review Date: 8/12/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am enjoying UNK's online graduate program. The professors are flexible and caring. The coursework is rigorous, enlightening, and highly relevant to my teaching profession. I would recommend this college to anyone pursuing an advanced degree in education.
Review Date: 11/11/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I currently attend the Academy of Art University's online Master's of Art Education program. This is a rigorous program taught by highly trained industry professionals. The online option allows me to work at my own pace while balancing work, family and school. I do miss the face-to-face interaction of the traditional classroom environment though.
Review Date: 3/19/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am currently working through my MEd and licensure program for Elementary Education and so far, things have been good from SNHU. My academic adviser is great - gets in touch enough but not too much. The teachers so far have been a mix of good and bad, but that's true anywhere!
Review Date: 8/25/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No