In this article, we profile the 30 best online master's in educational technology degree programs.
A master's in educational technology is a professional degree that focuses on skills used for the improvement and performance of technology in the classroom. Programs emphasize integration strategies, hands-on technology, and theoretical foundations. A number of online master's in educational technology programs are available to accommodate working educators who want to earn additional and highly specific training in this growing field of education.
We looked at 168 accredited colleges and universities listed by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offered online master's in educational technology or closely related programs. We narrowed our original list of schools by choosing institutions with regional or national rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. We then listed the schools in order of affordability based on in-state graduate tuition rates/fees published by NCES College Navigator.
The resulting selections for our top 30 best online master's in educational technology degrees are listed below in order of affordability.
#30 – George Washington University
Online Master's in Educational Technology Leadership
Washington, DC
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $28,845
George Washington University's online master's in educational technology leadership degree program is a top-ranked program designed for working students. The program consist of 36 semester hours of graduate study with classes in educational policy, instructional design, introduction to quantitative research, leadership and education, and managing computer applications. Several elective courses are also available and explore topics in advanced instructional design, developing effective training with technology, and learning technologies and organizations. Admission to the program requires a completed application, two recommendations, an official transcript, and GRE or Miller Analogies Test (MAT) scores. George Washington University is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 56th best national university and 64th best value school. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #16 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
For more information: George Washington University
#29 – Concordia University
Online Master's in Educational Technology Leadership
Portland, Oregon
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,910
The master's in educational technology online degree program from Concordia University is designed to prepare candidates for leadership roles that implement educational technologies in K-12 classrooms and community college settings. The program is fully online with classes taught by university professors. Courses include community of learners, contemporary educational thought, current and emerging trends in educational technology, developing character through the curriculum, and research in educational technology. Online classes run five weeks in length and can be accessed at any location with Internet service. Concordia is ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report.
For more information: Concordia University
#28 – Pennsylvania State University
Online Master of Education in Learning, Design, and Technology
University Park, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,216
The online educational technology master's degree from Pennsylvania State University is a 30-credit program that prepares graduates to use and create educational technologies that support both teaching and learning. Courses are delivered online and are taught by university professors who also instruct in the classroom. Online courses include designing constructivist learning environments, educational technology integration, measuring the impact of technology on learning, and systemic instructional development. The school is ranked and accredited. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the institution as the 50th best national university in the country and the 14th top public school. Also, several of the online graduate programs have earned recognition, and out of 800 institutions with graduate education schools, Penn State is ranked #38.
For more information: Pennsylvania State University
#27 – University of Illinois
Online Master's in Learning Design and Leadership – Technology Specialist
Champaign, Illinois
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,289
University of Illinois offers a master's in educational technology online degree program that focuses on education policy, organization and leadership, and learning design and leadership. In fact, students may follow a research track for the technology specialist concentration. All courses are delivered online and include analysis of advanced instructional technologies, learning technologies, learning with mobile technologies, new learning, and technology and educational reform. The institution is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 44th best national university. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #10 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
For more information: University of Illinois
#26 – Michigan State University
Online Master's in Educational Technology
East Lansing, Michigan
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,764
The College of Education at Michigan State University offers an affordable online master's in educational technology degree program designed for K-12 teachers in Michigan. The program is offered entirely online, and the same professors who instruct on campus teach classes. Courses include approaches to educational research, learning in school and other settings, learning technology through design, teaching K-12 students online, technology and leadership, and the nature and design of compelling experience. The university is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as well as other publications. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks the school as the 82nd best national university. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #8 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed.
For more information: Michigan State University
#25 – Saint Joseph's University
Online Master's in Instructional Technology
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,092
One of the top online educational technology master's degree programs on our list is offered by Saint Joseph's University. The program is designed for working students, and the completion of the degree qualifies students for an instructional technology specialist certification. All online classes are taught by university professors. These courses include applying theories of learning to technology, instructional design, interactive and emerging technologies, technology applications for learning environments, technology planning, and teaching and learning at a distance. The program consists of 36 credits. St. Joseph's is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 11th best regional university in the North, and the online graduate education programs are ranked #98 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
For more information: Saint Joseph University
#24 – East Carolina University
Online Master's in Instructional Technology
Greenville, North Carolina
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,009
The master's in educational technology online program at East Carolina University is 100% online and designed for working students. Courses are taught by qualified graduate level faculty members who are experienced at instruction in and out of the classroom. Required online courses include administration of school technology programs, analysis and evaluation in instructional technology, integrating technology in English, principles of instructional design, and selection and integration of multimedia for PreK-12 schools. East Carolina is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 210th best national university and 118th top public school. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #16 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
For more information: East Carolina University
#23 – Virginia Tech
Online Master's in Education, Curriculum and Instruction with Instructional Technology
Blacksburg, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,532
Virginia Tech offers online educational technology programs, which include the master's in education, curriculum and instruction with a focus on instructional technology. This distance education program is designed for working teachers who do not have time during traditional daytime hours to attend classes. All classes are delivered online and include applied ID theory, design for learning, foundations of instructional design and technology, program and product evaluation, and theoretical foundations of technology enhanced learning. Virginia Tech is a nationally ranked institution by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks the school #74 among the best national universities and the 27th top public school.
For more information: Virginia Tech
#22 – University of Tennessee
Online Master's in Instructional Technology
Knoxville, Tennessee
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,834
The online educational technology degree program at University of Tennessee is offered through the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences. Classes are delivered entirely online and are taught by graduate level instructors. The master's program requires the completion of 33 credit hours of coursework over two, three, or four-year plan options. Online courses include instructional media development, instructional systems design, online learning environments, and understanding online interaction. Students must have access to a computer with high-speed internet, a webcam, plenty of backup storage, and a USB headset with microphone. University of Tennessee is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. Also, the graduate education school is ranked #62 out of more than 800 institutions surveyed by U.S. News.
For more information: University of Tennessee
#21 – University of Florida
Online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Educational Technology
Gainesville, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,737
University of Florida offers an accredited online master's in educational technology degree program that is designed for working students. The two-year program focuses on educational technology and prepares students for careers as instructional designers or educational technologists. Courses include blended learning environments, designing integrated media environments, distance teaching and learning, foundations of educational technology, instructional computing, and issues and trends in educational technology research. A three-credit practicum in educational media and instructional design is also required. University of Florida is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 50th best national university and 14th top public school. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #1 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
For more information: University of Florida
#20 – SUNY at Albany
Online Master's in Curriculum Development and Instructional Technology
Albany, New York
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,694
The master's in educational technology online program at the University at Albany (SUNY) can be completed entirely online through the School of Education. Courses are taught by university professors and designed for educators with a particular interest in instructional design and technology. Online courses include educational computing, fundamentals of program development, media in teaching and learning, systematic design and instruction, and understanding learning and teaching. At least five courses in the student's chosen area of specialization must also be completed. The institution is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top national university and public school. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #6 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
For more information: SUNY at Albany
#19 – Tiffin University
Online Master's in Educational Technology Management
Tiffin, Ohio
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,600
One of the more affordable online educational technology master's programs on our list is found at Tiffin University. The school offers an online master's in education with an educational technology management concentration that is designed for individuals with an interest in how to implement and integrate technology into educational settings. Courses are delivered online and taught by university professors. Required concentration courses include adaptive learning facilitation, challenges in the use of technology in education, game based learning and analytics, instructional design principles, and learning management systems. Tiffin is accredited and has earned recognition by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as among the best regional universities in the Midwest.
For more information: Tiffin University
#18 – Kent State University
Online Master's in Instructional Technology
Kent, Ohio
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,090
Some of the best online educational technology programs are offered by Kent State University. These programs include the master's in instructional technology, which may be completed entirely online. Two degree tracks are available, including the general master's or the master's with a computing and technology endorsement. A separate online learning and teaching certificate is also available. Admission to the master's program requires undergraduate transcripts with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0, two letters of recommendation, and a goal statement. No standardized test results are needed. Kent State is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 188th best national university and 101st top public school. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #72 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
For more information: Kent State University
#17 – North Carolina State University
Online Master's in Technology Education
Raleigh, North Carolina
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,572
North Carolina State University offers an accredited online master's in educational technology that is designed for professionals who want to attain knowledge of emerging technologies and how to integrate them in the classroom. Courses are delivered entirely online and taught by the same instructors who teach on campus. Courses include curricula for emerging technologies, developing and implementing technology education, foundations for teaching technology, instructional design in technical and technology education, teaching creative problem solving, and technology education – a discipline. Advanced licensure and certificates are also available for those interested in completing additional coursework and field-based research. NC State is a nationally ranked institution by major publications like Forbes magazine and U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks the online graduate education programs #29 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
For more information: North Carolina State University
#16 – Purdue University
Online Master's in Learning Design and Technology
West Lafayette, Indiana
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,002
Purdue University's online educational technology master's degree program offers rigorous curriculum and online classes taught by university professors. Online courses include foundations of learning design and technology, human performance technology, integration and management of computers in education, introduction to e-learning, learning systems design, learning theory and instructional design, and strategic assessment and evaluation. Admission to the program requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, three professional letters of recommendation, and satisfactory GRE scores. A telephone interview with an admissions adviser may also be required. Purdue is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 60th best national university in the country. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #35 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
For more information: Purdue University
#15 – Indiana University
Online Master's in Instructional Systems Technology
Bloomington, Indiana
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,996
Graduate students at Indiana University can earn an online educational technology degree that consists of 36 credit hours of course work and rigorous instructional technology training. The program offers online courses that are taught by the same professors who teach on campus. These courses include analysis for instructional and performance improvement, design and development of instructional and performance interventions, evaluation of instructional and performance improvement systems, instructional and performance technologies foundations, and learning and cognition in education. Indiana University is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 86th best national university in the country. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #22 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
For more information: Indiana University
#14 – University of Missouri
Online Master of Education in Information Science and Learning Technologies
Columbia, Missouri
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,576
University of Missouri offers accredited online educational technology programs that can be completed 100% online. One of the graduate level programs includes the master of education in information science and learning technologies. Courses are offered in four-week and eight-week formats and structured in a way that allows students to complete their degree in just one year. The online courses include electronic portfolio development, instructional systems design, technology action research, and technology to enhance learning. Admission to the program requires a completed bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and a minimum GPA of 3.0 or better. University of Missouri is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top national institution. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #61 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
For more information: University of Missouri
#13 – Iowa State University
Online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instructional Technology
Ames, Iowa
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,549
One of the most affordable online educational technology degree programs on our list is the online master's in curriculum and instructional technology offered by Iowa State University. The program is ideal for full-time classroom teachers considering career advancement in learning and technology. The program requires 32 credit hours that may be earned entirely online. Courses include designed effective learning environments, foundations of digital learning, multicultural foundations of school and society, principles and practices of flexible and distance learning, and using technology in learning and teaching. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 111th best national university in the country. Also, the graduate online education programs are ranked #163 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
For more information: Iowa State University
#12 – Northern Arizona University
Online Master's in Educational Technology
Flagstaff, Arizona
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,407
One of the top online educational technology programs on our list is the master's in educational technology at Northern Arizona University. The program offers two areas of emphasis: Adult learning and training, and K-12 teacher. All courses are delivered online and taught by the same professors who instruct in the classroom. These courses include creating technology learning environments, distributed learning delivery systems, instructional theory and strategies in technology integration, and research in career and technical education. The program is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school as among the top national universities. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #113 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#11 – The University of Akron
Online Master's in Instructional Technology
Akron, Ohio
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,136
The online educational technology master's degree program from the University of Akron requires 30 semester hours that immerse students into emerging educational technologies. The program is designed for working teachers and educators and can be completed entirely online. Required coursework includes educational psychology, instructional design, introduction to instructional technology, multimedia and hypermedia, planning for technology, and using research to inform practice. Applications to the program are accepted on a rolling basis. The University of Akron is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. Also, the graduate education school ranks #168 out of more than 800 surveyed institutions with graduate schools.
#10 – Georgia State University
Online Master's in Instructional Design and Technology
Atlanta, Georgia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,004
Georgia State University's master's in educational technology online degree program is a fully online program that does not require GRE scores for admission. All classes are delivered online by university professors who regularly teach on campus. These courses include analysis of performance and instructional systems, design of performance and instructional systems, diffusion and adoption of technological innovation, foundations of instructional technology, managing instructional technology projects, and understanding and facilitating adult learning. Also, an internship in instructional technology is required. Georgia State University is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top national institution. In fact, the online graduate education programs are also ranked #43 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#9 – Texas A&M University
Online Master's in Educational Technology
College Station, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,904
Texas A&M University's online educational technology degree programs include the master's in educational technology. This online degree program is designed for students in education who want to pursue careers as instructional designers, technology coordinators, or trainers. All courses are delivered online and include designing for mobile learning, educational game design, educational psychology, educational technology field and profession, instructional design, and learning theories. Courses are taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. Texas A&M is a top-ranked and accredited institution. In fact, major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the institution as a best national university. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #72 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#8 – University of North Dakota
Online Master's in Instructional Design and Technology
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,643
The online educational technology programs at University of North Dakota include the master's in instructional design and technology. This online program takes approximately two years to complete with live web classes in the evenings and a synchronous format. Three discipline areas are the focus of the program, including communication, education, and psychology. Online courses include advanced computer-based instructional development, instructional systems analysis and design, introduction to computer-based instruction, survey of instructional design, and theories and models of instructional design. University of North Dakota is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 202nd best national university in the country and the 110th top public school.
#7 – University of Maryland University College
Online Master's in Instructional Technology
Adelphi, Maryland
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,514
One of the best online educational technology degree programs on our list is the graduate degree program offered at University of Maryland University College. This affordable master's degree requires 33 credits and is available exclusively online. Core courses include administration of technology initiatives, foundations of technology in teaching and learning, leading technology change in schools, teaching information and media literacies in the digital world, and using technology for instructional improvement. The institution is ranked and accredited. In fact, major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the institution as a top regional university in the North.
#6 – Liberty University
Online Master of Education in Teaching and Learning – Educational Technology and Online Instruction
Lynchburg, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,430
Liberty University offers a master's in educational technology online degree program designed for individuals with teaching licensure and the desire to transition into the instructional technology field. The 36-credit hour program may be completed entirely online and allows up to fifty percent of the program hours to be transferred from an accredited institution. Classes are taught online and include foundations of educational technology and online learning, leadership in educational technology, principles of design and management in educational technology and online learning, and trends and issues in educational technology. Liberty is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national institution. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #174 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#5 – University of Arkansas
Online Master's in Educational Technology
Fayetteville, Arkansas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,350
One of the most affordable online educational technology degree programs on our list is the online master's from University of Arkansas. This non-thesis program is offered 100% online and requires no GRE scores for admission. However, the program is top-ranked and accredited. Also, the completion time is highly flexible. In fact, students may take anywhere between 1.5 and 6 years to complete the degree requirements. All classes are delivered online and taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. The institution is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 135th best top national university. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #47 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#4 – Appalachian State University
Online Master's in Educational Media
Boone, North Carolina
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,721
Similar to online educational technology programs, Appalachian State University offers a master's in educational media that can be completed entirely online and on a part-time basis. The program offers three completion tracks, including instructional technology specialist/K12 track, the new media literacies and global perspectives track, and the online learning and professional development track. To be eligible for admission, applicants must have three reference letters, official transcripts, completed resume, and GRE or MAT test scores no older than five years. Appalachian State is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks the school as the 9th best regional university in the South and 3rd top public school. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #66 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#3 – Texas Tech University
Online Master of Education in Instructional Technology
Lubbock, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,525
Texas Tech University's online master's in educational technology degree is a 39-credit hour program designed for educators and trainers who want to grow their knowledge and become instructional designers or managers of distance education programs. A bachelor's degree is required for entry into the program. Courses are offered over a two-year period with coursework delivered entirely online. Some of these courses include action research, curriculum theory foundations, foundations of instructional technology, instructional design foundations, online distance learning, and planning and developing instructional media. Texas Tech is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 176th best national university and 93rd top public school. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #109 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#2 – University of North Texas
Online Master's in Learning Technologies
Denton, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,183
University of North Texas offers an accredited online educational technology master's degree that leads to an online MS in learning technologies. This program is offered on a full-time or part-time basis. All classes are delivered online, and courses are designed where students may log in at any time and from any place. Four concentration tracks are available so that students may take electives in areas of interest. These tracks include instructional systems, instructional systems design, instructional systems technology, and teaching and learning with technology. The university is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top institution. In fact, the online graduate education programs are ranked #16 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#1 – Fort Hays State University
Online Master's in Instructional Technology
Hays, Kansas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $4,055
Fort Hays State University is our #1 pick for most affordable online master's in educational technology degree programs. This 36-credit hour program is designed for educators, teachers, and trainers interested in an instructional technology career path. Students must complete 36 hours of coursework and pass comprehensive examinations to graduate. All courses are delivered online and include design and assessment, educational leadership, educational research, instructional technology and theory practice, multimedia applications, and utilization of technology. Fort Hays State is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the Midwest. Also, the online education graduate programs are ranked #77 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.