30 Best Master's in Education Programs

If you choose to pursue a master's in education, you have many options to consider. There's a program for nearly every specialization in the education field.

Some programs prepare you to work with people with disabilities, while others provide advanced foreign languages coursework for you to teach internationally. The choice is yours, but with so many options, starting your search can be tricky.

We've created a list of the top 30 master's in education degrees to help you find a program that matches your interests and career goals.

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Best Master's in Education Degree Programs

Want to work in education? The following list includes 30 of the best master's in education programs in the United States. Grad School Hub ranks schools and programs based on factors such as academic quality, school affordability, and program offerings. Average tuition and fees data is from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

1. Harvard University

• Location: Cambridge, MA
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $53,760

Harvard's School of Education provides various graduate-level options, including a master's in school leadership and teacher education. Admission is highly selective — each candidate must submit test scores, letters of recommendation, and essays.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, statement of purpose, resume, and three letters of recommendation

2. Utah State University

• Location: Logan, UT
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $7,595 (in-state) | $24,008 (out-of-state)

Utah State University's Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services offers several master's in education degree programs, including M.Ed. degrees in elementary education, instructional leadership, and secondary education. These master's programs prepare students to pursue careers in education or entry into doctoral education programs.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-2 years
• Admission requirements: GPA of 3.0 over the last 30 credits, three letters of recommendation, statement of purpose

3. Indiana University

• Location: Bloomington, IN
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $11,468 (in-state) | $33,367 (out-of-state)

Indiana University's School of Education several master's in education programs. Prospective students may choose from one of 20 areas of study including early childhood education and elementary education. The school also offers pathways to teaching licensure.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, undergraduate GPA of 2.75, personal statement, two letters of recommendation

4. University of Kansas

• Location: Lawrence, KS
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $11,046 (in-state) | $25,008 (out-of-state)

The University of Kansas offers several master's in education degrees to prepare students and teachers to pursue various leadership roles in education. The School of Education offers several concentrations, including curriculum and instruction, reading education, and teaching English to speakers of other languages.

• Estimated years of completion: 2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, personal statements, letters of recommendation, resume

5. Johns Hopkins University

• Location: Baltimore, MD
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $62,962

Johns Hopkins University is a top-tier research school known for its academic rigor. The university offers a master's in education with concentrations in seven areas, including gifted education,school administration and supervision, and technology for educators.

• Estimated years of completion: 2-5 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, GPA of 3.0 or higher, resume, essay, two letters of recommendation

6. University of Pennsylvania

• Location: Philadelphia, PA
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $44,162

University of Pennsylvania's master's in education degrees offer various concentrations, including education entrepreneurship, education policy, and higher education. The university prepares students to pursue work in urban and international education, public schools, education research, and other education careers.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, statement of purpose, resume, letters of recommendation

7. University of Texas at Austin

• Location: Austin, TX
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $12,036 (in-state) | $22,952 (out-of-state)

The University of Texas College of Education offers research-driven experiences for graduate students. The school features master of education degrees in curriculum and instruction, educational administration, educational psychology, kinesiology and health education, and special education.

Students can pursue electives to fit their interests and goals. Some M.Ed. programs include cultural studies in education, early childhood education, higher education leadership, and special education.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, GPA of 3.0, statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, resume

8. Arizona State University

• Location: Tempe, AZ
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $12,914 (in-state) | $25,398 (out-of-state)

Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College at Arizona State University educates current and aspiring teachers and leaders by fostering the necessary knowledge to take action and improve education. Eleven master's in education degrees are available, including in curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, educational technology, and higher and postsecondary education. Many of the degrees also provide teacher certification opportunities.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, GPA of 3.0, personal statement, three letters of recommendation, resume

9. University of Wisconsin

• Location: Madison, WI
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $12,251 (in-state) | $25,577 (out-of-state)

Available programs at this top-ranked school include master's of education degrees in curriculum and instruction, K-12 leadership, and special education. All master's in education programs equip students with the skills to pursue leadership roles in education or doctoral research programs, which the institution also offers.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, GPA of 3.0, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, resume

10. University of Colorado

• Location: Boulder, CO
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $16,804 (in-state) | $36,570 (out-of-state)

The School of Education at the University of Colorado offers graduate programs in curriculum and instruction, educational equity and cultural diversity, educational foundations and policy, learning sciences and human development, and research and evaluation methodology. Graduate students work in small groups and collaborate with experienced faculty members.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, GPA of 3.0, personal statement, three letters of recommendation

11. Northwestern University

• Location: Evanston, Illinois
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $53,024

Northwestern University offers education master's degrees in K-12 teaching, educational studies, and learning sciences. Transformative teaching and learning is the central focus of Northwestern's programs, which emphasize areas like social justice, human development, and community engagement.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, GPA of 3.0, statement of purpose, resume, letters of recommendation

12. Ohio State University

• Location: Columbus, OH
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $12,997 (in-state) | $39,598 (out-of-state)

The Ohio State University College of Education and Human Ecology offers several M.Ed. programs that equip students for leadership roles in education. Some programs include the master's of education in early childhood, English and integrated language arts, visual impairments, and mathematics.

Most master's in education programs offer specializations, allowing enrollees to choose pathways that align with their interests or career goals. Admission can be selective for this top-ranked research institution.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, GPA of 3.0, GRE score

13. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

• Location: Los Angeles, CA
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $13,322 (in-state) | $28,424 (out-of-state)

University of California, Los Angeles' education school is known as a leading institution for equipping teachers who want to make a difference in urban and multi-ethnic environments. Several different programs are available to choose from, including the two-year graduate program and the IMPACT program.

The university also offers a more rigorous four-quarter master's of education in urban teaching. Fees for each term vary depending on your resident status. The program offers various courses focused on making your transition to being an educator seamless.

• Estimated years of completion: 2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, GRE score, three letters of recommendation, professional work experience

14. University of Florida

• Location: Gainesville, FL
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $12,737 (in-state) | $30,130 (out-of-state)

University of Florida's College of Education features M.Ed. programs in areas of study like early childhood education, educational technology, and teacher leadership for school improvement. The school offers subspecialties for students to tailor their degrees to their personal or professional aspirations.

• Estimated years of completion: 2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, GRE score, three letters of recommendation, professional work experience

15. Virginia Commonwealth University

• Location: Richmond, VA
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $15,754 (in-state) | $29,782 (out-of-state)

M.Ed. programs in counselor education, curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, reading, and special education include concentrations for students to dive deeper into their preferred fields. The counselor education degree has programmatic accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, three letters of recommendation, statement of intent

16. Teachers College at Columbia University

• Location: New York, NY
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $35,430

The Teachers College at Columbia University has ten different departments of more than 100 education programs. Admissions are restrictive, however. This school features a master's in education degree with available focuses in adult learning and leadership, applied physiology, and cognitive science in education.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-3 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, statement of purpose, resume, two letters of recommendation, GRE score

17. University of Maryland

• Location: College Park, MD
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $17,448 (in-state) | $36,598 (out-of-state)

University of Maryland's M.Ed. program offers various sub-specializations like elementary/middle school, English, social studies, and special studies. Graduate students engage in rigorous study with research opportunities woven into their classroom experiences.

• Estimated years of completion: 2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, GPA of 3.0, statement of purpose, resume, letters of recommendation

18. University of Connecticut

• Location: Storrs, CT
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $21,262 (in-state) | $43,174 (out-of-state)

The University of Connecticut offers master of education degrees in numerous specialties like adult learning, curriculum and instruction, and special education. Graduate certificates and teacher certification programs are also available. Many meet the needs of working students who would continue working. Hybrid and summer programs, along with sixth-year degree options, are available.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, GPA of 3.0, statement of purpose, GRE and GMAT score

19. University of Oregon

• Location: Eugene, OR
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $18,495 (in-state) | $31,455 (out-of-state)

University of Oregon's College of Education offers several master's in education programs, with available specializations like sociological foundations of education, teaching English to speakers of other languages, and elementary education. Licensure and endorsement preparation prepares students for K-12 Oregon teacher licensure in specific areas like reading endorsement or special ed.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, copy of active teacher license, professional references, resume, statement of purpose

20. Stanford University

• Location: Stanford, CA
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $57,210

Stanford University's education master's programs combine educational theory and practice. Specializations include education data science, learning design and technology, and teacher education. Joint programs such as education and business administration, public policy and education, and law and education are also available.

• Estimated years of completion: 9-18 months
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, statement of purpose, resume, three letters of recommendation, GRE score

21. Michigan State University

• Location: East Lansing, MI
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $20,382 (in-state) | $39,876 (out-of-state)

Michigan State University's master of education program is known for its research with children and its contributions to policy development. Coursework explores socio-cultural learning, curriculum in social contexts, elementary reading assessment, psychology of classroom discipline, and technology and leadership.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, GPA of 3.0, professional essay, teaching and professional experience, three letters of recommendation

22. University of Washington

• Location: Seattle, WA
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $18,057 (in-state) | $31,530 (out-of-state)

The College of Education at the University of Washington offers several specialized graduate programs focused on research and field study: curriculum and instruction, education and equity, educational policy, educational psychology, and special education. There are also teacher preparation programs, which allow candidates to work in field-based learning opportunities, including elementary teacher prep and secondary teacher experience.

• Estimated years of completion: 2-3 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, GPA of 3.0, GRE score, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, resume, writing samples

23. University of Virginia

• Location: Charlottesville, VA
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $21,742 (in-state) | $34,832 (out-of-state)

University of Virginia's Curry School of Education offers rigorous yet practical education research to support the quality of teaching and clinical practices in the state. The school offers several master's of education degree programs, including administration and supervision, curriculum and instruction, educational psychology, and counselor education. Many of the M.Ed. programs prepare students to pursue doctoral admissions.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, goal statement, recommendations, resume

24. University of Minnesota

• Location: Minneapolis, MN
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $20,315 (in-state) | $30,425 (out-of-state)

University of Minnesota's College of Education and Human Development offers several accredited master's in education degree programs that provide students with cutting-edge research opportunities. Many of the graduate programs also have certificates or teacher licensure available. Admissions can be competitive, as the school is known for being a world-renowned research university.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, GPA of 2.8, resume, essay, letter of recommendation, diversity statement

25. University of Illinois

• Location: Champaign, IL
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $18,131 (in-state) | $32,416

The University of Illinois offers master's in education programs in four areas: curriculum and instruction; educational psychology; education policy, organization, and leadership; curriculum and instruction; and special education. These programs prepare students to pursue positions as university professors, researchers, and policy analysts.

• Estimated years of completion: 2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, GPA of 3.0, personal statement, resume, letters of recommendation, GRE score

26. University of Michigan

• Location: Dearborn, MI
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $15,290 (in-state) | $26,946 (out-of-state)

The University of Michigan offers master's degrees in educational studies, educational leadership and policy, and higher education. Each comes with various concentrations, such as diversity and social justice in higher education and research for educational improvement.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, statement of purpose, personal statement, three letters of recommendation, resume, GRE score

27. University of Pittsburgh

• Location: Pittsburgh, PA
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $26,142 (in-state) | $43,504 (out-of-state)

The University of Pittsburgh's master's in education degrees include specialties like early childhood education, elementary education, education leadership, and secondary education. Students can benefit from world-renowned faculty, an extended alumni network, and an inquiry-based curriculum.

• Estimated years of completion: 2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, goal statement resume, three professional references

28. Boston College

• Location: Chestnut Hill, MA
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $34,028

Social justice is a hallmark of Boston College's M.Ed. programs. The college also emphasizes theory, practice, and research. Practicum opportunities are available in schools, hospitals, mental health centers, and universities in the Boston metropolitan area.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-1.5 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, resume, personal statement, letters of recommendation, standardized test scores, writing sample

29. New York University

• Location: New York, NY
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $39,592

New York University's Steinhardt School of Education offers programs in elementary, secondary, and educational leadership. Depending on the chosen major, students may take classes that cover diverse learners, gifted education, and teacher leadership in the classroom.

• Graduation rate: 85%
• Estimated years of completion: 2-3 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, content core requirements, resume, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, GRE or GMAT score

30. Vanderbilt University

• Location: Nashville, TN
• Annual Tuition and Fees: $53,722

Vanderbilt University offers master's degrees in education with programs in education policy, elementary education, and secondary education. Several joint degree programs and concentrations allow students to customize their curricula. For those seeking education careers after earning bachelor's degrees that did not include teacher licensure, options are available in elementary and secondary education.

• Estimated years of completion: 1-2 years
• Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, three letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, GRE score

What Can I Expect From a Master's in Education?

A master's in education degree generally includes 30 credits of core and elective courses and a capstone project related to a concentration. Some programs require a master's thesis. You can typically finish a master's degree in 1-3 years, but this timeline can change based on degree type and full-time vs. part-time enrollment status, among other factors.

Curriculum varies, but many M.Ed. programs offer specializations. Common focuses include curriculum and instruction, learning design and technology, and secondary education.

Some programs focus on developing teaching skills, preparing students to meet licensure requirements. Others do not lead to licensure but help further your career as an educator.

In general, a master's in education can lead to many roles in education with strong salaries. Possible careers include early childhood education, district administration, and instructional coordination.

What Are the Benefits of a Master's in Education?

The Admission Requirements for Master's in Education

Admission requirements vary among schools, but you can expect several standard materials for all master's in education programs.

First, you'll generally need a bachelor's degree in education and work experience in the field. You may also need a minimum undergraduate GPA, as well as GRE or GMAT scores. Finally, most programs require letters of recommendation and a personal statement or statement of purpose describing why you're pursuing a master's degree in education.

Types of Master's Degrees in Education

There are five primary types of master's degrees in education, which have some key similarities and differences. Make sure to understand the differences to choose a specialization that best aligns with your professional aspirations.

Master of Education (M.Ed.)

A master of education program prepares students to pursue careers in educational administration or as instructional coordinators.

Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.)

Completing an M.S.Ed. prepares you to pursue educational leadership roles. Many M.S.Ed. programs have a stronger focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Master of Arts in Education (M.A.Ed.)

An M.A.Ed. typically suits current educators looking to advance into leadership positions. The education component of the master of arts option will be less centered on STEM subjects. As a result, it may be more ideal for teachers in subjects such as English and history.

Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.)

M.A.T. program participants may already have bachelor's degrees in education or transition from other fields. Many M.A.T. programs focus on classroom instruction and educational theory.

Master's In Teaching (M.I.T.)

An M.I.T. is for students who want to become teachers but do not have bachelor's degrees in education or professional experience. Many M.I.T. programs design coursework to meet the requirements for teacher certifications.

Job Outlook for Master in Education Careers

According to the BLS, the median annual wage in the education, training, and library field was $57,490 as of May 2022 — more than $10,000 higher than the national median salary of $46,410.

The BLS projects jobs in educational instruction and library occupations as fast as average from 2022-2032. Here are some of the highest-paying jobs in the education field:

Job Outlook for Master in Education Careers

Jobs	Median Annual Salary (May 2022)	Projected Growth Rate (2022-2032)
Elementary, Middle, and High School Principal	$101,320	1%
Instructional Coordinator	$66,490	2%
High School Teacher	$62,360	1%
Special Education Teacher	$62,950	0%
Middle School Teacher	$61,810	1%
Kindergarten and Elementary School Teacher	$61,620	1%

Certifications and Licenses

Every state requires teaching licensure to teach in public schools. Educators receive teaching licenses at the state level, and each state has specific requirements for licensure. In general, educators must have certain educational credentials, such as a bachelor's degree in education. Additionally, they are typically required to pass a comprehensive exam.

Depending on the type of educator you plan to be, there may be more requirements. For example, some states may require secondary teachers to have licensure in specific subject areas. Special education teachers may need to meet additional requirements, as well.

Many states have reciprocity agreements, which allow you to use your teaching license in neighboring states beyond your home location.

Scholarships, Grants, and Financial Aid for Master's in Education Students

A master's degree creates a significant financial investment. Luckily, there are many scholarships and other financial resources available to those pursuing careers in education.

1. Federal TEACH Grant

Who Can Apply: This program provides aid to students completing or planning to enroll in coursework for a career in teaching. Undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students who agree to complete four years of qualifying teaching after graduating can apply.

Amount: $4,000

2. Nancy Larson Foundation College Scholarship

Who Can Apply: Junior, senior, and graduate students who have declared an elementary education major can apply for this sponsored scholarship. Established by author Nancy Larson, her foundation of the same name encourages and supports prospective teachers.

Amount: $1,500

3. AFCEA Educational Foundation Scholarships

Who Can Apply: Undergraduate and graduate students pursuing education degrees in STEM fields qualify for this award. The foundation supports STEM education and has provided more than $2 million in yearly scholarships.

Amount: $2-500-$3,000

Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in Education Degree Programs

Is a master's degree valuable for teachers?

In general, yes. More advanced degrees are a factor in increasing pay to teachers in more than 145 school districts across the United States. With an advanced degree, you can increase your earning potential and available career paths while growing personally and professionally.

What can I do with a master's in education degree?

With a master's degree in education, you can pursue many available jobs. Along with roles you can pursue with a bachelor's degree, such as an elementary school, middle school, or high school teacher, you can also qualify for positions like school principal, instructional coordinator, and counselor.

Would I get paid more with a master's in education?

Work experience is often a big factor in determining salaries. Still, a master's degree can provide a salary bump. According to the NCES, the average salary for a teacher with a master's degree is nearly $14,000 higher than a teacher with a bachelor's degree.