Becoming a teacher takes passion, dedication, and commitment. Teachers who want to maximize their effectiveness in the classroom can hone their skills by earning a Master's Degree in Education. The online graduate programs on our list offer students a convenient way to earn a master's degree while continuing to work at the teaching job they love. While a few programs require students to attend brief sessions on campus, most can be completed entirely online. Students enrolled in these graduate programs will deepen their knowledge of curriculum design, instructional assessment, technology, and classroom management, while also building research skills.
Graduate programs in education are typically non-thesis degrees meaning that students can complete most programs in two years. Internships, capstone projects, or field experiences are required for most programs. Several programs that made our list lead to advanced licensure and many others offer endorsements in subjects such as literacy, special education, or Teaching English as a Second Language. Earning endorsements expands the number of subjects a teacher is qualified to teach, expanding career opportunities and job flexibility.
Graduate training in education increases professional competitiveness and prepares teachers to pursue careers as lead teachers, educational administrators, instructional coordinators, and trainers in businesses outside of education. Educators with advanced degrees will be ready to capitalize on a growing job market. The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics predicts a 12 percent growth—faster than average—for kindergarten and elementary school teachers. Teachers who are considering working in higher ed can expect similar growth, as post-secondary teacher positions are expected to grow by 13 percent from 2014 to 2024.\
Ranking Methodology: "It's science!"
The researchers and writers at Best Master's Degrees don't make recommendations based upon preference– we back our rankings with science. Here's a quick breakdown of how we organize ranking data:
- Finances (40%)
- Academic Rigor (35%)
- Student Gratification (25%)
Nearly half of the data used to score each ranking involves finances and are acquired from sources such as the National Center for Education Statistics, the U.S. Department of Labor, U.S. Department of Education, Glassdoor, and PayScale. Financial data encompasses the cost of tuition, fees, and class supplied; the average price of living; access to financial aid and social services; and lastly, the projected annual salary acquired from degree outcomes and income for loan repayment. The second largest category of information involves the quality of education, how competitive degree applicants should be for consideration, and how exclusive a degree program is overall. The final 25 percent of collected data is dependent on student and alumni reviews from sources such as PayScale, Rate My Professor, and Students Review.
Want to Learn More?
The amount of information available for specific degrees is plentiful, and Best Master's Degrees aims to provide as many resources as we can. Check out our Methodology page for more information and resource links.
#35 – Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi
Master of Science in Elementary Education
Corpus Christi, Texas
Website
With a population of 325,000, Corpus Christi is a lively travel destination on the Gulf of Mexico. Locals call it the "Sparkling City by the Bay."
Pursue the dual goals of advanced certification and graduate study with the Master of Science in Elementary Education from Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi. Typically called the Masters and Certification program, the degree allows students to earn their EC-Grade 6 or Grades 4-8 Mathematics Initial Teacher Certification. To qualify, applicants will need to hold a bachelor's degree and pass a pre-admissions content test. Students will gain an understanding of instruction and assessment through coursework and design a combined applied research and professional writing project. The curriculum covers instructional methodology, a specialization area, and the capstone research experience. The program also requires two semesters of an internship or one semester of student teaching.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $3,744 / $11,214
#34 – American Public University System
Master of Education: Teaching
Charles Town, West Virginia
Website
The American Public University System is an online university with more than 41,000 students.
Advance your career by adding depth to your education with the Master of Education / Teaching from the American Public University System, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. With concentrations in Special Education, Gifted Education, Reading and Literacy, and Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages, graduates are prepared to take on new roles in their teaching careers. As an online program, students can complete the required 36 credit hours while maintaining their employment. Classes start monthly and take either eight or 16 weeks to complete. Any licensing earned through APUS is valid in the state of West Virginia, however, reciprocity agreements may be available. Students should check for teacher licensing reciprocity agreements in their home state.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,300
#33 – Emporia State University
Master's of Science in Elementary Education
Emporia, Kansas
Website
Emporia State University was originally founded as a teacher's college in 1863.
If you've considered changing careers and becoming a teacher, you can prepare for licensure with the Master of Science in Elementary Education from Emporia State University. The program features online courses and local placements for clinical experiences. The 33 credit program covers foundational, methodological, and clinical experience courses. Students will work closely with a local mentor teacher and a supervisor from Emporia State University to complete a Kansas Performance Teaching Portfolio. Successful applicants will need a minimum 3.0 GPA on the last 60 hours of their college coursework. By completing the program, students will be eligible for an elementary education teaching license.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,013
#32 – Union University
Master of Education – Teaching and Learning
Jackson, Tennessee
Website
Union University has its main campus in Jackson, Tennessee, with satellite campuses in nearby Germantown and Hendersonville.
Active licensed teachers can develop their skills as educators with the Master of Education – Teaching and Learning from Union University. The 30 credit program offers students a choice of focus areas in Teaching & Learning, Instructional Leadership, and Teacher Leadership. All three programs admit students at three different entry points in the spring, summer, and fall. The Teaching & Learning and Teaching Leadership focus areas are both non-licensure programs. Students selecting the Instructional Leadership focus will need three years of teaching experience and will be eligible for state licensure. Students will complete a Performance Exhibition to demonstrate their professional growth. Students in all programs receive an iPad with admission to ensure students are able to showcase their growth through clinical experiences.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,000
#31 – Valdosta State University
Master of Education in Elementary Education
Valdosta, Georgia
Website
Valdosta State University's campus is loaded with palm trees and live oaks and is only 15 minutes away from the Florida state line.
Refine your teaching skills with the Master of Education in Elementary Education from Valdosta State University. Students will build on their undergraduate education while becoming eligible to earn upgraded teaching certification from the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. The program focuses on the knowledge, research, and leading theories of early childhood education. Students complete 36 credits in the program, including six hours of elective credit. Electives can qualify students to earn endorsements for K-5 Science or Math, English to Speakers of Other Languages, gifted education, literacy, or educational leadership. Applicants must have a four-year teaching certificate in Early Childhood Education.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $4,482 / $16,146
#30 – Graceland University – Lamoni
Master of Education
Lamoni, Iowa
Website
Graceland University launched its online programs in 2000 and offers online graduate degrees in education, nursing, and healthcare.
Busy teachers can continue their education with the Master of Education from Graceland University – Lamoni. Students select from programs in literacy, special education, or instructional leadership, depending on their career goals and backgrounds. The 30-hour degree can be completed in less than two years and does not lead to licensure. Candidates will need a bachelor's degree from an accredited university to qualify for the program, which offers multiple start dates throughout the year. To complete their degrees, students prepare an approved capstone research practicum that addresses student learning. Graceland University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and participates in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,015
#29 – Jacksonville State University
Master of Science in Education in Elementary Education
Jacksonville, Alabama
Website
Current Jacksonville State University President John M. Beehler is just the 12th president since the school was founded in 1883.
Jacksonville State University offers students a convenient path to graduate education with the Master of Science in Education in Elementary Education. The program leads to eligibility for fifth-year teacher certification in elementary education. Accordingly, the university requires candidates to hold a bachelor's teacher's certificate in elementary education. The program ends once the student completes 33 semester hours, which includes classes such as Instruction in Technology, Research, and Teaching Methods. Students choose two elective areas from social sciences, science, language arts, reading, and multicultural literature. The university's School of Education holds accreditation from the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,168 / $18,336
#28 – California State University – East Bay
Master of Science in Education
Hayward, California
Website
California State University – East Bay has had four previous names, including California State College at Hayward and the State College for Alameda County.
Expand your career horizons with the Master of Science in Education from California State University – East Bay. The online program is offered in an asynchronous format, freeing students to study at their convenience. The degree includes 10 courses including two electives. The program instructs students in curriculum design, educational planning, teaching models, research methods, and more. Students also complete a 15-week project course as a capstone experience. Other courses last seven weeks with one finals week. Qualified applicants will need a bachelor's degree from an accredited university with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Students are admitted for the fall and spring terms.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,176 / $16,680
#27 – College of St. Scholastica
Online Master of Education
Duluth, Minnesota
Website
With its main campus in Duluth, Minnesota, the College of St. Scholastica also operates campuses in three other campuses in the state and another in Phoenix, Arizona.
The College of St. Scholastica offers students a custom tailored education with its Online Master of Education. The 33-credit program is designed to be completed in two years, and students are grouped in a cohort to maximize online interactions. Students have five elective options to choose from that will lead to certification in Computer Science Education, Culturally Relevant Practice, Education Technology, and Literacy Instruction. A Professional Studies elective is also available. Students with previous graduate experience can transfer up to six credits. The program culminates in a research-based inquiry capstone where students work closely with faculty to complete an original scholarly work.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,484
#26 – Mayville State University
Master of Arts in Teaching
Mayville, North Dakota
Website
Maryville State University has offered teacher education programs throughout its 125-year history.
Transition to a rewarding teaching career with the Master of Arts in Teaching from Maryville State University. Graduates will be eligible to apply for teacher certification in North Dakota while also earning a master's degree. The 32-credit online program is designed to help students earn a professional teaching degree while maintaining their current employment. Qualifying students will need a 3.0 GPA on their undergraduate work. The program's curriculum focuses on clinical experiences, learning management, child development, and inclusive classroom training. A comprehensive capstone project wraps up the program. Mayville State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,152
#25 – University of North Carolina at Pembroke
Master of Arts in Teaching with a specialization in Elementary Education
Pembroke, North Carolina
Website
The Master of Arts in Education is one of 17 graduate programs offered by the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
Practicing teachers can take their profession to the next level with the Master of Arts in Teaching with a specialization in Elementary Education from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. The 39-credit program includes 12 three-unit courses and a three-unit internship. Students are eligible for initial licensure after the first six courses, and advanced licensure after completing the remaining six courses. Students will learn to improve academic achievement in their classrooms while strengthening learning environments and enhancing relationships with families and communities. The curriculum covers program design, field experiences, literacy, and classroom management. The university's Graduate Elementary Education program is approved by the North Carolina State Board of Education.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $3,820 / $14,586
#24 – Northwestern College
Master of Education
Orange City, Iowa
Website
Elementary education is the most popular undergraduate major at Northwestern College Iowa.
Design a graduate program that meets your needs with the Master of Education from Northwestern College Iowa. This fully online program features classes that start every eight weeks, making it convenient to start your education. Students can select from tracks in early childhood education, administration, teacher leadership, and special education. Several endorsements are also available. The program begins with 18 credits of core courses focusing on technology, curriculum, and assessment. Students then earn 12-15 credits through their emphasis area. The degree requires a total of 30-33 credit hours to complete. The university's department of education holds accreditation from the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,580
#23 – Bemidji State University
Master of Arts in Teaching
Bemidji, Minnesota
Website
Bemidji, Minnesota, draws its name from Lake Bemidji which was first called Bemidjigamaa "a lake with crossing waters" by its original settlers the Ojibwe.
Get relevant training in a critical area of education with the Master of Arts in Teaching from Bemidji State University. This non-licensure-granting degree consists of 35 credits and features a flexible design to align with students' career goals. Students complete a series of required core courses with topics ranging from research to educational psychology. Seven credits are earned through core electives that address learning communities, online teaching, and instructional design. To complete the program, students earn an additional 15 credits through elective options which can include open study, an area of emphasis, or courses in Standards of Effective Practice. A cumulative 3.0 GPA is required to qualify for the degree program.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,263
#22 – West Texas A&M University
Curriculum and Instruction, Master of Education
Canyon, Texas
Website
Western Texas A&M University is serious about sustainability. Since 2010, it has recycled nearly 500,000 pounds of paper.
The Curriculum and Instruction, Master of Education from West Texas A&M University offers students an education grounded in theory and practice. The 36-hour program helps students develop their teaching skills through best practices and sound theories of learning. Students will explore curriculum history, theory, and strategies through required coursework. A graduate advisor will help students select an additional 18 hours to complete the degree, six of which must be completed in fields outside of education. Students must pass a comprehensive examination in their last semester to complete the degree. Qualified applicants will need a minimum 3.0 GPA and at least 18 hours of educational courses prior to admission.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $4,496 / $5,185
#21 – Martin Luther College
Master of Science in Education
New Ulm, Minnesota
Website
Founded in 1995, Martin Luther College is part of the Martin Luther College is owned and operated by the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod.
With relevant training, students are well prepared to work in Lutheran schools with the Master of Science in Education from Martin Luther College. The program's flexible format lets students choose from suggested emphases or customize their education by taking classes from multiple subjects. Emphasis areas include leadership, special education, education technology, and instruction. Students will learn to research educational issues, and receive instruction in research, and learning assessment. Each emphasis requires the completion of 36 credits. Students can select from three capstone experiences, including a comprehensive examination, capstone project, or thesis. Post-baccalaureate licensure is also available and requires the completion of an additional 12-week professional experience and portfolio.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,400
#20 – Ball State University
Master of Arts in Education
Muncie, Indiana
Website
Ball State University's Teachers College is one of eight colleges on the school's campus.
Prepare for a leadership role in education with the Master of Arts in Education from Ball State University. This highly customizable program gives students the flexibility to design a degree pathway that meets their career goals. The 30-credit degree features multiple focus areas such as in early childhood education, reading and literacy instruction, and elementary education. Students can also design specialties in other areas by combining 15 credits of core education courses with 15 from another area. Common specializations include Autism, Gifted and Talented Education, and Middle School Education. Graduates will be eligible to apply for graduate-level certificates for specific focus areas. The university's Department of Early Childhood, Youth, and Family Studies is accredited by the Commission and Council for the Association of Educator Preparation.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,554 / $21,172
#19 – Buena Vista University
Master of Education – Special Education (Exceptional Student Services Instruction)
Storm Lake, Iowa
Website
In its 40-plus year history, Buena Vista University has graduated more than 16,000 students.
Build your skills while maintaining your current teaching career with the Master of Education – Special Education (Exceptional Student Services Instruction) from Buena Vista University. Students can select from three degree tracks ranging from Mild to Moderate Disabilities, Severe and Profound Cognitive Disabilities, and Severe and Profound Learning and Behavioral Disabilities. Students can also combine all three in a comprehensive track. Core coursework exposes students to research methods, topics in learning, development and motivation, and leadership. Students gain hands-on classroom experience through professional seminars and field experiences. The program ranges from 36 to 51 credit hours and requires that applicants hold a minimum 2.75 GPA.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,306
#18 – University of Alabama
Master of Arts in Elementary Education
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Website
Alumni from the University of Alabama won 15 prestigious Fulbright Scholarships in the 2018-19 academic year.
Enhance your skills as a practicing professional with the online Master of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of Alabama. A combination of research, instruction, and practical classroom experience highlights the program. Students complete between 30 and 36 units for the degree, which includes required coursework in classroom evaluation, curriculum, pupil learning, and research methods. Students then select one or two specialty options in language arts, literacy, mathematics, science, or social studies. Admission is open to candidates with a Class B teaching certificate or equivalent and a minimum 3.0 GPA. The program is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,780 / $28,100
#17 – Morningside College
Master of Arts in Teaching
Sioux City, Iowa
Website
Morningside College's sports fans wear maroon and white to cheer on the school's 26 athletic teams.
Busy professionals seeking advanced training can earn the Master of Arts in Teaching from Morningside College. The program consists of 36 graduate credits, including 28 from the professional foundations core and another 18 from the professional teaching core that can be customized to meet a student's goals and interests. Foundational courses range from issues in education to education technology and data collection and analysis. Students can transfer up to nine graduate credits to the professional teaching core or select from courses in the college's graduate catalog. Teachers in the state of Iowa can also earn special endorsements in such areas as English as a Second Language, K-8 Reading, or K-8 S.T.E.M.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $4,500
#16 – University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Master of Education in Teacher Education
Greensboro, North Carolina
Website
The University of North Carolina Greensboro has been dubbed a "Tree Campus" for its lushly forested urban campus.
The Master of Education in Teacher Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro gives you the skills to shape the future of your career. With a concentration in mathematics, this online program explores the teaching and learning of elementary mathematics. Students will gain competence with coursework in learning and development theory, diverse learning, and evaluation. The program's pedagogical expertise section focuses on K-5 mathematics subjects such as algebraic reasoning and mathematical modeling. Students also complete a professional development/leadership sequence to finish the program. To qualify for admission, applicants will need both an "A" licensure in elementary education and a 3.0 GPA in their undergraduate degree.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,219 / $18,937
#15 – Regis University
Master of Education: Secondary Education (initial licensure)
Denver, Colorado
Website
Regis is a Roman Catholic/Jesuit university that is proud to be one of only 28 member institutions of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities.
Learn what it takes to master the art of teaching with the Master of Education: Secondary Education (initial licensure). The program balances theory with practice by providing multifaceted experiences in schools. The 40 credit hour program is based on 15 hours of foundational coursework, another 15 of professional methods courses, and a 10-hour student teaching session. Students may earn endorsements in specific subject areas including business, English, world languages, math, science, and social studies. Upon completing the program, students will be eligible for initial teacher licensure in the state of Colorado. Related certificates in literacy and cultural and linguistic diversity are also available.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,852
#14 – University of North Alabama
Master of Arts in Education
Florence, Alabama
Website
The University of North Alabama has more than 140 campus-based and online programs.
Prepare to make a difference in the lives of young students with the Master of Arts in Education from the University of North Alabama. The university's College of Education and Human Sciences offers educators a pathway to earn a graduate degree. Students can select from focuses in Early Childhood Education P- Grade 3, Elementary Education grades K-6, or Collaborative Teacher Special Education grades K-12. All programs will qualify graduates for the Alabama professional educator certification. The graduate programs are approved by the Alabama State Department of Education and hold accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,868 / $11,736
#13 – University of Texas at Arlington
Master of Education in Curriculum
Arlington, Texas
Website
The University of Texas at Arlington Academic Partnerships manages the university's accelerated online programs, all of which offer multiple start dates require no visits to campus.
Enhance your subject matter expertise with the Master of Education in Curriculum from the University of Texas at Arlington. This 30 credit program allows students to select a degree focus that matches their career goals. Students can specialize in mathematics education, science education, or literacy studies. As a non-thesis degree, students can expect to complete the program in less than 18 months. Students will learn skills to assess their own teaching and link educational theory to the practice of teaching. The program also includes core coursework in curriculum design, instructional strategies, and diversity in education. The university's College of Education is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,360 / $17,110
#12 – Western Governors University
Master's of Arts in English Language Learning (PreK–12)
Salt Lake City, Utah
Website
Western Governors University was created by the Western Governors' Association in 1997 to offer adult learners convenient access to a college education.
Enhance your teaching skills and accelerate your career with the Master's of Arts in English Language Learning (PreK–12) from Western Governors University. The program is available to currently-licensed teachers interested in expanding their knowledge of English instruction. Students learn research fundamentals, language production, assessment theory, and classroom management strategies. The program provides relevant learning opportunities with courses in subject pedagogy, literature reviews, and site-based field experiences. All students complete a teacher work sample as a capstone experience. Students will have the opportunity to showcase their planning, instructional, and assessment skills as a competent classroom teacher. The university holds accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,500
#11 – Valley City State University
Master of Education
Valley City, North Dakota
Website
In addition to the online Master of Education, Valley City State University offers a Master of Arts in Teaching that leads to North Dakota state licensure.
Take advantage of Valley City State University's long history of teacher preparation with the school's Master of Education. The program is designed for working, licensed teachers and features six concentrations in Library and Information Technology, Teaching and Technology, Elementary Education, English Education, and Teaching English Language Learners. Four core courses guide students through lessons in educational research. Concentration courses provide a broad foundation in the program's subject area while the flexible format allows students to complete their degrees in two years. The program does not lead to licensure. The university's education programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,481
#10 – Eastern Illinois University
Master of Arts in Art, Art Education Option
Charleston, Illinois
Website
Eastern Illinois University's mascot, ‘Billy the Panther,' was adopted in the 1930s but only got its official name in 2008.
Strengthen your skills as an educator with the Master of Arts in Art, Art Education Option from Eastern Illinois University. The part-time program is designed to be completed in two years and does not lead to certification. Students spend eight days in the summer at the EIU campus completing the degree's studio art requirement. Students select from studio courses in printmaking, clay, digital media, fiber, and more. The balance of the coursework is completed online, allowing students to maintain their current careers. The program's curriculum includes both art education and art history components. The university's Department of Art is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,008 / $16,794
#9 – Maranatha Baptist University
Master of Education in Teaching & Leading
Watertown, Wisconsin
Website
In addition to traditional students, Maranatha Baptist University's Online & Distance Learning program also admits high school dual-enrollment students and military students.
The Master of Education in Teaching & Leading from Maranatha Baptist University helps educators enhance their teaching skills and grow their careers. The 32-credit program can be completed in one year, although a two-year part-time format is available. Students can select from predetermined tracks or create custom concentrations to suit their needs. Tracks include English, History, Leadership, Math, and Special Education. Core coursework exposes students to the history and philosophy of education as well as research design, curriculum theory, and teaching assessment. Scholarships are available for candidates employed in full-time Christian vocational ministry. Students may also apply for a limited number of graduate assistantships.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,360
#8 – Fort Hays State University
Online Master of Science in High-Incidence Special Education
Hays, Kansas
Website
Fort Hays State University has nearly 200 online degree and certificate programs.
Add depth to your training as an educator with the Online Master of Science in High-Incidence Special Education from Fort Hays State University. The 36-credit hour program can typically be completed in 18 to 24 months entirely online. Students who complete the program will earn a full endorsement in high-incidence special education for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The program covers legal and professional issues in special education, teaching theories, technology, and cultural diversity. Students are eligible to transfer up to nine credit hours to the program. The degree is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $3,497 / $9,961
#7 – Cedarville University
Online Master of Education
Cedarville, Ohio
Website
Cedarville University enrolls more than 3,330 undergraduate, graduate, and online students.
Enhance your skills as a passionate, caring educator with the Online Master of Education from Cedarville University. Students will learn to integrate faith, teaching competence, leadership, and service through the program. The degree is aimed at professional educators seeking a prescribed roadmap to degree completion. Students will gain curriculum design and theory skills in the program's education core and complete the program with either an applied research project or a research thesis in an area of their choosing. Concentrations in Curriculum, Educational Administration, and Instruction are available. The university's Department of Education holds accreditation from the National Council of Accreditation of Teacher Education. The degree does not lead to licensure.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,385
#6 – Mississippi College
Master of Education in Elementary Education
Clinton, Mississippi
Website
Founded in 1826, Mississippi College is the oldest university in the state of Mississippi
The Master of Education in Elementary Education from Mississippi College gives you the background to become a positive influence in the lives of students. The program provides a faith-based curriculum led by faculty who are practicing teachers themselves. Students can complete the program in just 10 months and will be eligible for a Class AA license from the Mississippi Department of Education. A total of 30 credit hours are required, with class sessions lasting seven weeks. Students will acquire research and curriculum development training in the program's core curriculum before moving onto advanced content coursework. A bachelor's degree in Elementary Education is required to qualify for admission. The college's School of Education is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,584
#5 – William Carey University
Master of Education
Biloxi, Mississippi
Website
William and Carey University organizes an annual Speakers Bureau, a collection of faculty and staff members from the university who are available for lectures at local events.
Students seeking more in-depth insight into the theory and practice of teaching can earn the Master of Education from William Carey University. The degree offers specialized concentrations in art, elementary and secondary education, biology, English, gifted education, math, social science, and special education. The curriculum covers core professional education, concentration-specific courses, and electives. Students can work with their academic advisor to identify additional courses that can lead to advanced licensure. Students in the Emotional and Behavioral Disorders special education concentration will complete a practicum and internship. The university's School of Education is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,400
#4 – California State University-Fullerton
Master of Science in Education Secondary Education Concentration
Fullerton, California
Website
California State University-Fullerton is part of the 23-campus California State University system.
Take your teaching abilities to the next level with the Master of Science in Education Secondary Education Concentration from California State University-Fullerton. The program broadens the skills of current teachers, enabling them to design curriculum, assess instruction, and integrate educational technology into their classrooms. Courses in research, writing, curriculum theory, and technology comprise the core of the curriculum. Students also complete concentrations and elective courses and select from a range of options for a culminating experience. Students can choose to prepare a thesis, project, scholarly article, or submit for National Board Certification. A hybrid online/on-campus program is also available.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,176 / $16,680
#3 – University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Master of Education in Elementary Education
Charlotte, North Carolina
Website
The University of North Carolina Charlotte is home to 18 NCAA Division I varsity teams.
The Master of Education in Elementary Education from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte will help experienced teachers upgrade their skills with the latest insights. Students who complete the 33-credit program will earn Advanced (M) teaching licensure in the state of North Carolina. The program includes a range of 11-15 credit concentrations, including Academic and Intellectually Gifted, STEM, and Teaching English as a Second Language. Students will cover topics in learning theory, classroom management, research methods, data analysis, and more in the program's 18-credit core. Applicants will need a minimum 2.75 GPA and a bachelor's degree in elementary education to qualify for the program.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $4,337 / $17,771
#2 – Appalachian State University
Master of Arts in Elementary Education
Boone, North Carolina
Website
Appalachian State University operates a food pantry and free store for students in need of some non-perishable staples.
Enhance your ability to lead K-6 classrooms with the Master of Arts in Elementary Education from Appalachian State University. Qualified applicants must hold a valid "A" level teaching license in North Carolina and completing the degree qualifies students for "M" level teaching licensure in the state. The 39-credit program can be completed in two years by taking courses on a part-time basis. Core coursework exposes students to topics in diversity, educational trends, educational leadership, curriculum design, and technology. Students also complete field courses selected in consultation with their academic advisor. Students without adequate teaching experience can complete an internship practicum consisting of 90 hours teaching in classrooms.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $4,839 / $18,271
#1 – Western Carolina University
Masters of Arts in Education
Cullowhee, North Carolina
Website
Western Carolina University has been listed as the No. 1 Outdoor Adventure College in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic.
Build the skills that make you an effective classroom teacher with the Master of Arts in Education from Western Carolina University. The 30-36 hour degree offers concentrations in art, biology, elementary education, English, middle grades education, special education, and social sciences. Students will deepen their understanding of child and educational psychology through coursework in the program's professional core and concentration areas. All programs lead to recommendation for Advanced Competencies licensure in the state of North Carolina. Students with current National Board Certification in their chosen concentration area will be exempt from the program's required portfolio. The university's College of Education and Allied Professions holds accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Education Preparation.
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $4,435 / $14,842