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Best Online Education Degrees

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Updated February 26, 2024

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TBS Rankings Team

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Online Bachelors Degree in Education

An online bachelor's degree in education prepares students for teaching roles in public and private K-12 settings. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects jobs for high school teachers to grow 1% between 2022 and 2032, amounting to approximately 67,000 new jobs. High school teachers made a median annual salary of $62,360, and the top 10% of earners made more than $101,710 during the same timeframe.

This guide ranks the best online bachelor's in education programs to help students find the right programs for their needs. We also cover important information for prospective students, including common courses and potential careers and salaries for graduates.

Choosing an Online Bachelor's Degree in Education

When researching online education degree programs, students should consider several factors, such as program cost, transfer policies, and on-campus requirements. We cover several important considerations for prospective students below.

• Program Cost: Typically, public schools cost less than private schools, and in-state students pay less than out-of-state students. However, many schools allow all online students to pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency.
• Transfer Policies: Many schools offer transfer credit for prior academic, professional, and military experience, which often saves time and money on a degree.
• School Size and Type: A school's size and type can affect factors like class sizes, tuition rates, and student engagement. For example, a small, private school may have higher tuition rates but also offer more one-on-one attention from faculty than a larger public school.
• Program Length: Most programs take four years of full-time study to complete, but some schools offer accelerated programs that allow students to graduate in 2-3 years.
• On-Campus Requirements: Many bachelor's in education programs exist completely online, while others require learners to visit campus for in-person components. Students should ensure they can meet all on-campus requirements before committing to a program.
• Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements: Nearly all bachelor's in education programs require a student-teaching practicum. Students should choose a program with practicum opportunities aligned with their interests and goals.

Featured Online Bachelor's Teaching Degrees

The Best Online Education Degree Programs

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. TheBestSchools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

#1 Best Online Education Degrees

University of Missouri

• Columbia, MO
• Online + Campus

The University of Missouri enrolls distance learners in 58 programs. Undergraduate degree-seekers can choose from 14 online bachelor's degree programs. From its campus in Columbia, the school offers an online bachelor's degree in early childhood education in a mobile society. The education program offers flexible study options, where students can pursue full- or part-time study while modifying classes as they see fit.

Throughout the program, students attend industry-relevant lectures while completing education-specific coursework. This curriculum consists of general education and advanced coursework. Enrollees can individualize their studies by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.

After earning their degree, graduates often benefit from greater access to employment opportunities and higher earning potential. The school reports a median salary of $42,700 for graduates six years after completing a bachelor's degree. Undergraduate students at the college can expect to pay $15,850 in tuition and fees yearly. Students can meet with the education department directly to inquire about admission requirements, application materials, and more.

University of Missouri at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 9,722

Total Online Programs: 58

Online Bachelor's Programs: 14

Admission Rate: 81%

#2 Best Online Education Degrees

Prescott College

• Prescott, AZ

Prescott College is a private, nonprofit, four-year institution providing competitive study across 18 bachelor's degree programs. The private college supports 14 online bachelor's programs from its main campus in Prescott, Arizona. The BA in education provides a premier academic experience.

The education program balances rigor with flexibility. Learners seeking to modify their studies can work with their academic advisor. Enrollees can choose electives and minors to supplement their learning.

Undergraduate tuition at the institution is $30,888. Learners can access numerous funding opportunities through the accredited school.

Prescott College at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 649

Total Online Programs: 52

Admission Rate: 97%

#3 Best Online Education Degrees

Kansas State University

• Manhattan, KS

Kansas State University supports flexible distance learning opportunities across 73 online degree programs. Undergraduate students can choose from 13 online bachelor's programs. Learners seeking competitive, customizable study relevant to the education field will find the school's online bachelor's in educational studies to be an attractive option. Working professionals and busy students often benefit from the program's flexible study options and class customization.

Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. Students also complete general education requirements, gaining additional knowledge. Enrollees can modify their degree by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.

Graduates often grow their earning potential with a bachelor's degree. According to the college, graduates earn a median salary of $41,400 six years after completing their degree. Though educational costs vary, education students can expect to pay an average of $18,103 in tuition and fees. Students interested in learning more about admission requirements and their eligibility for financial aid should connect with the education department.

Kansas State University at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 5,850

Total Online Programs: 73

Online Bachelor's Programs: 13

Admission Rate: 95%

#4 Best Online Education Degrees

Biola University

• La Mirada, CA

Biola University supports 2,206 distance learners across 14 fully online programs. Undergraduates choose from five online bachelor's programs at the private, nonprofit, four-year school. Students looking to advance in the education field will find the school's BS in early education to be an attractive option. This program offers customization to help students earn a degree that meets their needs.

Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge during general and advanced classes. These classes incorporate general and advanced knowledge applicable to the education field. While enrolled, learners can customize their studies by choosing electives, minors, and degree concentrations.

Graduates often greatly benefit from their education, gaining access to more job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The school reports a median salary of $38,700 for graduates six years after completing a bachelor's degree. Prospective learners can explore funding opportunities, eligibility requirements, and other opportunities by connecting with the Office of Financial Aid.

Biola University at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 2,206

Total Online Programs: 14

Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Admission Rate: 70%

#5 Best Online Education Degrees

North Greenville University

• Tigerville, SC

Learners seeking advanced online study should consider one of North Greenville University's 18 online programs. Undergraduate students seeking flexible, remote study can choose from one of seven online bachelor's programs. From its campus in Tigerville, South Carolina, the school offers an online bachelor's in elementary education program. Working professionals and busy students often benefit from the program's flexible study options and class customization.

Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. With assistance from their academic advisor, enrollees can customize their studies through electives, minors, and concentration areas.

A bachelor's degree often connects graduates with numerous job opportunities and a higher earning potential. According to the college, graduates earn a median salary of $27,800 six years after completing their degree. Prospective learners can explore funding opportunities, eligibility requirements, and other opportunities by connecting with the Office of Financial Aid.

North Greenville University at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 396

Total Online Programs: 18

Online Bachelor's Programs: 7

Admission Rate: 63%

Online Bachelor's in Education Programs Ranking Guidelines

We ranked the following online bachelor of education programs based on quality, curricula, faculty strength, school awards, rankings, and reputation, including the school's reputation for providing online degree programs.

Our Methodology

Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.

Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools  cannot buy better rankings  at TBS.

While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.

• Affordability
• Online Enrollment

Data Sources

The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.

The  Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System  (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's  National Center for Education Statistics  (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the  College Navigator .

Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from  AcademicInfluence.com , subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.

Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology

About our ranking factors.

Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.

Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.

We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.

• Collapse All

Academics - 75%

Affordability - 15%, online enrollment - 10%.

In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.

If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through  contact page .

We thank you for your readership and trust.

What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor's in Education Program?

Students pursuing an online bachelor's in education develop knowledge and skills in lesson planning and classroom management. They also learn how to work with exceptional students, support diverse classrooms, and develop innovative instructional methods.

Many bachelor's in education programs offer concentrations in areas like elementary education, secondary education, special education, and science education. Students should ensure their prospective programs offer concentrations aligned with their goals and interests.

Bachelor's in Education Curriculum

• Child Development: Child development classes examine the principles of human growth and development and how they affect learning. The curriculum focuses on development from conception through adolescence, exploring aspects of cognitive, emotional, physical, and social development.
• Literacy: This course teaches students how to provide literacy instruction across grade levels. Students learn about developmental processes associated with literacy and reading while building knowledge and skills in effective instruction methods.
• Subject-Specific Curricula: Subject-specific courses prepare students to instruct a particular subject, such as math, English, or social studies. These classes vary based on the student's intended content area.
• Theories of Learning: This class examines the various theories and methodologies related to different learning modalities. Students learn when to use different methods and how to determine what strategy is best for a particular class or pupil.
• Instructional Methods: This course explores teaching and assessment methods, teaching students how to make informed decisions about leading their classrooms and educating pupils.

Bachelor's in Education Licensing and Certification

All states require teachers in K-12 public schools to hold licensure. Licensure requirements vary by state, but all states require a minimum number of student-teaching hours under the supervision of a licensed teacher. Students in a bachelor's in education program usually complete around one semester's worth of student-teaching, gaining practical experience in the field.

Licensure candidates must also pass exams. Exam requirements vary by state, but the Praxis exam and the edTPA are common requirements. Depending on grade level and intended content area, some prospective teachers may also need to pass skills tests or subject area exams.

If a teacher receives licensure in one state but wants to move to a different one, they must meet all of the new state's licensure requirements. Many boards of education provide state reciprocity — making it easier and faster for educators to earn licensure in a new state — but not all, so it's best to check with your local state board.

Teaching Jobs

Graduates with a bachelor's degree in education can pursue teaching jobs in public and private schools. They can work as elementary, middle, and high school teachers. With further study through a master's degree, graduates can also assume administrative education roles. Doctoral graduates can pursue research and faculty positions at colleges and universities. Learn more about the spectrum of education degrees through The Best Schools guide .

Elementary School Teachers

Elementary educators typically work with K-6 students, ensuring they understand the fundamentals of basic subjects before moving to middle school. These teachers create and deliver lesson plans, teach students how to interact with their peers, provide evaluations, and communicate with parents and guardians about their child's progress. Elementary teachers need at least a bachelor's degree. Those who want to work in public schools also need licensure.

High School Teachers

High school teachers instruct 9-12-grade students. They provide instruction in specific content areas, administer assignments and grades, and help learners prepare for standardized tests. They may also write letters of recommendation for students applying to college. Like elementary school teachers, high school educators need a bachelor's degree at minimum. They also need a teaching license if they work in a public school.

Middle School Teachers

Middle school teachers typically work with students in grades 6-8. They create lesson plans, collaborate with other teachers and administrators on issues around student success, prepare learners for standardized tests, and communicate with parents. Middle school educators need at least a bachelor's degree. They also need a license when teaching in a public school.

Accreditation for Online Bachelor's in Education Degrees

Students should only consider accredited schools. Accreditation indicates that a school meets high standards with respect to faculty qualifications, academic rigor, and student learning outcomes. Only students at accredited schools can receive federal financial aid, and many schools only accept transfer credits and degrees from accredited institutions. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire candidates with an accredited degree.

Schools may receive regional or national accreditation. Regional accreditation typically applies to nonprofit, degree-granting institutions, while national accreditation applies to for-profit, vocational, and technical schools. Regional accreditation is generally considered the more prestigious of the two.

Programs within a school, such as business, social work, and education programs, may also receive accreditation. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation accredits teaching programs. Students can verify a school's accreditation status through the Council for Higher Education Accreditation .

Popular Questions About Education Degrees

How long does it take to earn a bachelor's degree in education.

A bachelor's degree in education typically takes four years of full-time study to complete.

Is It a BA or a BS in Education?

Students can earn a BA or a BS in education. BA programs focus more on liberal arts, while BS programs focus more on the sciences.

What Bachelor's Degree Should I Get to Become a Teacher?

Students interested in liberal arts topics should choose a BA program, while learners interested in STEM topics should select a BS program.

How Much Is a Bachelor's Degree in Education?

The cost of a bachelor's degree in education depends on several factors, such as type of school, residency requirements, and transfer policies.

Can I Teach Without a Teaching Degree?

Many states provide alternative paths to teaching certification for individuals with a bachelor's degree in an unrelated subject.

Can You Become a Teacher With an Online Degree?

Yes, as long as the degree comes from an accredited school.

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Online Master's in Education

Contact Information

Connect with program staff.

If you have program-specific questions, please contact OEL Assistant Director Nicole Barone . 

Upcoming OEL Virtual Information Sessions

• Monday, November 20, 7–8 p.m. ET

Additional Information

• Download the Master's Viewbook
• Admissions & Aid

Today’s education landscape needs leaders like you — dynamic educators and innovators committed to making sustainable and scalable change for all students by building on your professional experience in PreK–12 classrooms and districts; on college and university campuses; or in philanthropies, nonprofits, policy organizations, and ed-tech initiatives.

That’s why the Harvard Graduate School of Education launched an online Master's in Education Leadership, a two-year, part-time Ed.M. program with Higher Education and PreK-12 pathways specifically designed for working education professionals who bring at least seven years of relevant or transferrable work experience. The program will strengthen the invaluable skills you’ve already developed and give you the tools to propel yourself to new leadership opportunities and to even greater impact.

“Skilled leadership is essential to creating opportunity and overcoming the longstanding inequities that create barriers to success. At HGSE, we are committed to helping you meet today’s complex challenges by becoming the type of leader education needs.” Bridget Long Dean and Saris Professor of Education and Economics Harvard Graduate School of Education

A New Option for Experienced Educators

The online Master's in Education Leadership from HGSE consists of a diverse cohort of professionals like you — leaders who are advancing in their careers, and who bring important perspectives grounded in real-world challenges. Our program is conducted almost exclusively online — except for one short on-campus experience, where you'll meet your cohort in person and build community prior to the start of the first fall semester.

The program offers a distinctive Harvard experience — including deep engagement and interaction with Harvard faculty and talented peers, as well as a lifelong professional network — within an intentionally designed curriculum and robust opportunities for mentorship and coaching. The program is career-embedded — so you can immediately apply what you are learning, in real time, to the work you are doing on the ground. 

Two Pathways: Higher Education and PreK–12

In the online Master’s in Education Leadership, you will choose between two Professional Pathways — Higher Education or PreK–12 — that align with the area of practice or the student community in which your work will make an impact. Students interested in advancing into senior leadership roles in colleges and universities, or in organizations that impact higher education, should study in the Higher Education Pathway . Students who want to do change-making work within the education ecosystem on behalf of students from early childhood to secondary education levels should select the PreK–12 Pathway .

Our prescribed curriculum is intentionally designed to meet your professional needs. It is anchored in both foundational knowledge and core competencies in education leadership related to the U.S. education system. You will also complete pathway-specific courses to advance your leadership in higher education or preK–12 education, as well as the Foundations courses. You will also have the opportunity to select courses from a small subset of electives. A minimum of 42 credits are required to graduate with an Ed.M. degree from HGSE.

The main elements of the curriculum are: 

Foundations Courses

Throughout the two-year program, you will participate in Foundations courses in four areas: How People Learn, Leading Change, Evidence, and Equity and Opportunity. In these courses, you’ll build core skills central to the profession of education.

• The online Ed.M. program commences with How People Learn, which runs online June–July and requires a time commitment of 10–15 hours per week.  
• You’ll participate in Equity and Opportunity, Evidence, and Leading Change throughout the two-year program.

Professional Pathways

All students will choose between the Higher Education and PreK–12 Pathways. Throughout the program, you will take both cross-pathway courses and pathway-specific courses. Cross-pathway courses will allow you to develop leadership skills that are important across sectors, as well as have discussions about how higher education and preK–12 can work more effectively together. Cross-pathway courses include:

• Real Talk: The Art and Practice of Communications 
• Strategic Finance for Nonprofit Leaders

Pathway-specific courses are directed to the knowledge and skills important for leadership in the Pathway professional setting. 

Elective Coursework

Students will have the opportunity to choose from a curated list of electives during the optional January terms, and during the fall and spring of their second year. Sample elective courses: 

• Law and Higher Education
• Leading a School through Challenge and Crisis   
• Race, Equity, and Leadership 
• Teaching Exceptional Learners in Inclusive Classrooms 
• Why Can’t Higher Education Change? 
• Writing Workshop   

Note: Though some courses may include comparative and international examples, applicants should expect a focus on leadership within U.S. domestic educational institutions and systems. 

Leadership Core Competencies

To help you manage, lead, and implement change in complex organizations, our curriculum explores the core leadership competencies that you'll need to elevate your skills, knowledge, and expertise, wherever you are in your career. Throughout your coursework, you will strengthen your ability to:

• Lead change and think strategically 
• Foster productive organizational conditions 
• Navigate politics and practice political inclusion
• Communicate effectively 
• Cultivate self-development and team professional development skills 

Higher Education Pathway

All students will choose between the Higher Education and PreK–12 Pathways. The Higher Education Pathway prepares you to be a dynamic leader in a diverse range of postsecondary education contexts. It is designed to increase your knowledge of the practices, policies, processes, challenges, and opportunities in American postsecondary education. You will enhance your repertoire of strategies and management skills for tackling critical issues and introducing change — while preparing you to advance in your current career or move into other important leadership roles in higher education.  

Sample courses for the Higher Education Pathway: 

• Creating the Future of American Postsecondary Education 
• Higher Education Leadership & Governance 
• Student Affairs in Higher Education: Theory-Driven Practices to Help Students Thrive 

You will also have the opportunity to engage with accomplished leaders through HGSE’s unique President-in-Residence program. 

Students interested in the Higher Education Pathway currently hold administrative and mid-level leadership roles: 

• Colleges and universities, including in academic affairs, student affairs, admissions and enrollment management, advancement, and institutional research
• Nonprofit education organizations
• State and federal government agencies 
• Policy organizations focused on higher education

PreK–12 Pathway

All students will choose between the Higher Education and PreK–12 Pathways. The PreK–12 Pathway equips you to advance your leadership across the preK–12 landscape, including in such positions as teacher leader, principal, afterschool director, education agency representative, education nonprofit/philanthropic leader, or education entrepreneur.  

Sample courses for the PreK–12 Pathway: 

• Strategic Leadership in the PreK–12 Ecosystem 
• Creating Conditions for Effective School, Family, and Community Partnerships 
• Leading Learning

Students interested in the PreK-12 Pathway currently hold administrative and mid-level leadership roles in:

• PreK–12 schools, including as principals, assistant principals, and department heads
• Nonprofit education organizations (I.e., foundations, advocacy organizations, technical assistant organizations).
• Policy organizations focused on preK–12 education 

Projected Time Commitment

Courses combine synchronous meetings and asynchronous work and assignments. Live or synchronous aspects of required courses will occur on weekdays (Monday–Friday) between 6 and 9 p.m. ET . Some elective courses, outside the required curriculum, may be offered at alternative times. On average, this degree requires 12 to 18 hours of work per week, though the weekly commitment will vary by term, courses taken, and students' own work styles. Students can expect to spend approximately five to seven hours per week in synchronous online class sessions with faculty members and classmates. The remaining hours will be spent working independently on asynchronous class preparation, in self-scheduled small-group work with other students or working on assignments. 

Weekly Time Estimate

To complete the online Ed.M. in Education Leadership, students must complete 42 total credit hours of coursework over the two-year program. While the weekly time commitment varies, the graphic below provides a snapshot of the estimated weekly time commitment students may experience during the fall and spring semesters, when they will typically take 8 credits, the equivalent of two courses . 

Synchronous

Includes live, scheduled sessions with faculty members and other students.

Asynchronous

Self-paced activities, discussion posts, and other course-related work.

Assignments

Readings, projects, papers, research, etc.

Total Estimated Weekly Hours

Hours reflect estimates and vary by term, course, and student work style.

Occurs between Monday-Friday, according to a specific schedule.

Asynchronous work and assignments will have clear deadlines or milestones, but students can set their own schedules to complete this work. Note that there may be days or weeks during the semester that are busier than average, requiring more than the estimated time shown.

Program Faculty

The faculty co-chair for the Higher Education Pathway is Francesca Purcell . The faculty co-chair for the PreK–12 Pathway is Irvin Scott .

Faculty Co-Chairs

Francesca Purcell

Francesca Purcell is a specialist in higher education policy and practice, with expertise on topics including college completion, student transfer, and developmental education.

Irvin Leon Scott

A former teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, chief academic officer, and foundation leader, Irvin Scott's focus is on education leadership and faith-based education.

James P. Honan

Karen L. Mapp

Timothy Patrick McCarthy

Mary Grassa O'Neill

Alexis Redding

On-Campus Experience

Prior to kicking off your first fall semester, you will participate in the On-Campus Institute, an immersive experience on the HGSE campus in Cambridge. This will provide the opportunity to not only form deep relationships with your cohort, but also learn together with the faculty and advisers with whom you will spend two years. The immersive residential experience is a core component to the two-year degree program that is required of all students in the program. 

Over several days in late July and/or early August, you and your fellow peers will discuss your professional experiences and examine some of the persistent challenges in your organizations. You will immerse yourself in rich exercises and community building, set expectations of what it means to be in a rigorous HGSE degree program, and set intentions for yourself, your cohort, and your course of study. 

Career Pathways

The Master's in Education Leadership Program prepares you to advance to a senior leadership role in a variety of career pathways, including:

• Academic affairs 
• Admissions and financial aid
• Development
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Institutional research
• Student affairs

PreK-12 Pathway

• Education entrepreneur
• Executive director for an education nonprofit
• Principal* or head of school 
• Program officer for a foundation 
• School department head
• School designer and developer
• School district or network leader
• Teacher leader

Overall Program

• Education nonprofit CEO/COO 
• Educational advocate and organizer 
• Entrepreneur 

*Note: This program is not able to provide principal certification at this time.

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Program Highlights

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WGU School of Education

Wgu teachers college, earn an education degree online, from home..

D'Lynn, M.S. Curriculum and Instruction grad

ONLINE TEACHING DEGREES

WGU's Teachers College Can Help You Prepare For Teacher Licensure In Any Of The 50 States

You have a calling—to help students get the most out of their education. Make sure you get the most out of yours. Earn a teaching degree for about half* what you’d pay at other online universities. Our student obsession means you get flexibility, affordability, quality, and personalized support.

Browse and compare our online teaching degree programs to find the best fit for your needs.

*WGU average annual bachelor’s tuition rates are 48% lower than the national average, compared to national rates reported by the  Integrated Postsecondary Education Data Systems in 2022 . WGU average rate does not include rates for WGU Bachelor of Science, Nursing Prelicensure program.

RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE

The Teachers College at Western Governors University is granted accreditation for its initial and advanced licensure programs  from CAEP, the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, 1140 19th St NW, Suite 400 Washington, DC 20036 (202) 223-0077. 

ACCREDITED AND RESPECTED

Initial licensure programs offered through the WGU Teachers College have been awarded full accreditation by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) through June 30, 2026.

WGU is a top conferrer of STEM degrees that is partnered with Beyond100K. WGU joins nonprofits, government agencies, companies, and foundations to combat challenges and prepare more teachers for STEM teaching positions nationwide.

Online Degree Options for Aspiring Teachers

An online teacher certification program for aspiring elementary teachers....

An online teacher certification program for aspiring elementary teachers.

Leads to teacher licensure. Specific grade levels will vary depending on teaching certification in your state.

• Time: 68% of students finish this degree within 36 months.
• Tuition:  $3,825 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 38 total courses in this program (39 for Washington residents)

Skills for your résumé included in this program:

• Elementary Reading Methods
• Language Arts Instruction
• Elementary Mathematics Methods
• Elementary Disciplinary Literacy
• Children’s Literature

This elementary education degree program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. This online teaching degree program helps you to be eligible for teaching certification in any of the 50 states.

An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring...

An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle school science teachers. Leads to teaching license in all states that have a middle-grades general science teaching license.

Specific grade levels you are qualified to teach will vary depending on teaching certification in your state.

• Time: 62% of students finish this science teaching degree within 34 months.
• Tuition: $3,825 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 38 total courses in this program (39 for Washington residents).
• Heredity and Genetics
• Ecology and Environmental Science
• General Physics

This science teaching degree program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching.

An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle or high school chemistry teachers.

Leads to teacher licensure. Specific grade levels will vary depending on licensure in your state.

• Time: 65% of students finish this online chemistry degree within 37 months.
• Courses : 39 total courses in this program (40 for Washington residents).
• Physical Chemistry
• Inorganic Chemistry
• Organic Chemistry
• Educational Psychology & Development
• Biochemistry

This chemistry teaching degree program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. Earn a chemistry degree online and be eligible for a teaching certification.

Science Education (Secondary Earth Science) – B.S.

An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle or high school earth science teachers.

Leads to teacher licensure. Specific grade levels will vary depending on teaching license options in your state.

• Time: 63% of students earn this middle school teaching and high school teaching degree within 33 months.
• Tuition: $3,825   per 6-month term.
• Courses: 37 total courses in this program (38 for Washington residents)
• Physical Geology
• Earth Systems

This geosciences teaching degree program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. This high school teaching degree program prepares you for teaching licensure in any of the 50 states.

Science Education (Secondary Biological Science) – B.S.

An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle or high school biology teachers.

• Time:  61% of students earned this online biology degree within 38 months.
• Tuition: $3,825 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 37 total courses in this program (38 for Washington residents).
• Health Sciences
• Molecular and Cellular Biology

This biology teaching degree program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching.

An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle or high school physics teachers.

• Time: 62% of students earn this online physics degree within 49 months.
• Educational Psychology 
• Physics: Waves and Optics
• Space, Time and Motion
• Conceptual Physics
• Physics: Mechanics

This physics teaching degree program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. Graduates of this online teaching degree program will be eligible for teaching certification.

Special Education (Mild to Moderate) – B.A.

An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring special education teachers. Leads to your teaching license in states that offer a single teaching license in K–12 special education.

• Time: 61% of students finish this program within 34 months.
• Courses : 39 total courses in this program.

 If your state requires—or if you're interested in—dual licensure in both elementary education and K–12 special education, consider the  B.A. Special Education (K–12) program .

• Lesson Planning
• Behavioral Support Strategies
• Classroom Management

This online degree program includes a preclinical experience with face-to-face observation hours and a Student Teaching component hosted by an experienced teacher and directed by a clinical supervisor.

Special Ed and Elementary Ed (Dual Licensure) – B.A.

An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring K–12 special education teachers. Leads to dual licensure—elementary education teaching license and special education teaching license.

• Time: 60% of students finish this degree within 38 months.
• Courses: 44 total courses in this program (45 for Washington residents).

(Specific grade levels will vary depending on licensure in your state.) If your state offers a single K–12 special education teaching license and you are interested in focusing on teaching students with mild to moderate exceptionalities, consider the  B.A. Special Education (Mild to Moderate)  online teaching degree. 

• Elementary Social Studies Methods
• Elementary Science Methods
• Language Arts Instruction and Intervention

This special education teaching online degree program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. 

An online teacher certification program for aspiring middle school math...

An online teacher certification program for aspiring middle school math teachers. Leads to teaching license in states that have a middle-grades math teaching license.

Specific grade levels will vary depending on teaching licensure in your state.

• Time: 62% of grads earned this degree within 29 months.
• Tuition and fees: $3,825   per 6-month term.
• Courses: 39 total courses in this program.

Candidates for this science teaching degree program often include:

• Aspiring junior high math teachers who currently lack a teaching license
• Substitute teachers
• Career-changers with a passion for math
• School paraprofessionals
• Others who feel the call to teach

This science teaching degree program includes requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. This science teaching degree prepares you to be eligible for a teaching license in any of the 50 states.

Mathematics Education (Secondary) – B.S.

An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle school math teachers and high school math teachers.

• Time:  60% of students finish this degree within 40 months.
• Courses : 42 total courses in this program (43 for Washington residents).
• Trigonometry and Precalculus
• Probability and Statistics I and II
• Calculus I, II, and III
• Abstract Algebra
• College Geometry

This online math teaching degree program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. This online math teaching degree program helps students become eligible for math teaching certification.

An online master's of arts in education degree and teacher certification...

An online master's of arts in education degree and teacher certification program for aspiring elementary school teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.

Leads to a teaching license. Specific grade levels will vary depending on teaching certification in your state.

• Time:  64% of students finish within 24 months.
• Tuition:  $3,975 per 6-month term.
• Courses : 24 total courses in this program (25 for Washington residents)

This online teacher's degree requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching.

Teaching, Special Education (K–12) – M.A.

An online master's degree for current or aspiring teachers looking to...

An online master's degree for current or aspiring teachers looking to further their careers with a focus on K–12 special education.

• Time:  64% of students finish similar programs in 22 months.
• Courses: 26 total courses in this program.

This program is ideal for students who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field and are looking to earn their initial teaching license.

• Professional, Ethical and Legal Guidelines in Special Education
• Management Strategies for Academic and Social Behavior
• Assessment and Evaluation
• Methods of Instruction and Intervention
• Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment

Find a rewarding career teaching students with diverse challenges and special learning abilities with this teaching master's degree.

An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for...

An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle school math teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.

• Time: 61% of students finish this middle school math teaching degree within 24 months.
• Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 20 total courses in this program (21 for Washington residents).
• Educational Psychology
• Algebra for Secondary Mathematics Teaching
• Mathematics History
• Essential Practices for Supporting Diverse Learners

This M.A. Teaching program in middle grades math education requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. It differs from the M.A. Teaching, Mathematics Education (Secondary) program in that it does not require courses in upper levels of calculus, including advanced calculus and mathematical modeling. The curriculum of this online math degree is designed to prepare middle school math teachers for success.

An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle school or high school math teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.

Leads to teacher licensure. Specific grade levels will vary depending on the teaching certification in your state.

• Time: 64% of students finish this high school math teaching degree within 25 months.
• Courses: 21 total courses in this program (22 for Washington residents).
• Algebra for Secondary Teaching
• Geometry for Secondary Teaching
• Statistics and Probability for Secondary Teaching

This online teaching degree in secondary math education requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. This program differs from the M.A. Teaching, Mathematics Education (Middle Grades) program in that it includes courses in upper levels of calculus, including advanced calculus and mathematical modeling. Graduates from this secondary math degree program will be eligible for a teaching license in any of the 50 states.

An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle or high school English teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.

• Time: 63% of students finish this online English degree program within 21 months.
• Courses: 17 total courses in this program.
• English Pedagogy
• Reading Instruction and Interventions
• Disciplinary Literacy

This online English degree prepares students for teaching certification in any of the 50 states.

An online master's teaching degree and teacher certification program for...

An online master's teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle or high school science teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.

• Time: 62% of students finish this secondary science teaching degree within 24 months.
• Courses: 18 total courses in this program (19 for Washington residents)
• Science Technology
• Science Methods

This program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. You'll be prepared to teach in middle school or high school settings, based on teaching certification in your state.

Online Degree Options for Current Teachers

An online master's degree for current teachers looking to move into a...

An online master's degree for current teachers looking to move into a school or district leadership position, like principal, vice principal, or administrator.

• Time:  60% of grads earned this degree within 23 months.
• Courses: 13 total courses in this program.

This program is for licensed teachers who are ready to take the next step in their education career.

• School Financial Leadership
• People & Talent
• School Operations and Management
• Leadership Ethics

Put your leadership skills to good use—in the service of America's children—with this education master's degree. 

States that do not accept this program: Alabama, Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, and Minnesota.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in...

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching science to middle school students.

Available in all states that offer a middle-grades general science endorsement.

• Time: 63% of students earned this degree within 18 months.
• Courses: 14 total courses in this program.

This program is for currently licensed teacher who want to add middle-grades science to their license.

• Earth science
• Space science

Propel your career as a middle school or junior high science teacher with this M.A. degree.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching chemistry to middle or high school students.

• Time:  64% of students earn this degree within 18 months.
• Tuition:  $3,975 per 6-month term.
• General Chemistry

Propel your career as a junior high or high school chemistry teacher with this education master's degree.

Science Education (Secondary Earth Science) – M.A.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching earth science to middle or high school students.

• Time:  60% of students earn this degree within 14 months.
• Courses : 12 total courses in this program.

This program is designed for already-licensed teachers who want to add secondary earth science to their license.

• Ocean Systems

Propel your career as a junior high or high school geoscience teacher with this education master's degree.

Science Education (Secondary Biological Science) – M.A.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching biology to middle or high school students.

• Time:  62% of students earn this degree within 17 months.
• Tuition:  $3,975   per 6-month term.

This program is designed for already-licensed teachers who want to add secondary biology to their license.

• Human Anatomy and Physiology

Propel your career as a junior high or high school biology teacher with this education master's degree.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching physics to middle or high school students.

• Time:  62% of students earn this degree within 15 months.
• Courses : 13 total courses in this program.

This program is designed for already-licensed teachers who wish to add secondary physics to their licensure.

• Waves and optics
• Electricity and magnetism
• Space, time and motion

Propel your career as a junior high or high school physics teacher with this education master's degree.

Mathematics Education (Middle Grades) – M.A.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching math to middle school students. Available in states that offer a middle-grades math teaching endorsement.

• Time: 62% of students earn this degree within 16 months.
• Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.

This program is designed for current teachers who are looking to add middle grade math to their license.

• College algebra
• Finite mathematics
• Trigonometry and pre-calculus
• Mathematics learning and teaching
• College geometry
• Probability and statistics 

Focus your teaching passion on instilling in junior high students a love of math with this education master's degree.

Mathematics Education (K–6) – M.A.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching math to elementary school students.

• Time: 61% of students earn this degree within 12 months.
• Tuition: $3,975   per 6-month term.
• Courses: 10 total courses in this program.

This program is for current teachers who are looking to add K-6 math education to their license.

• Number Sense and Functions
• Geometry and Statistics
• Research Design

Focus your teaching passion on instilling in elementary-age students a love of math with this education master's degree.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching math to middle and high school students.

• Time: 64% of students earn this degree within 18 months.
• Courses: 18 total courses in this program.

This program is designd for current teachers who are looking to add secondary math to their license.

• Probability and statistics
• Algebra for secondary mathematics teaching
• Mathematics history and technology
• Mathematical modeling and applications

Focus your teaching passion on instilling in junior high or high school students a love of math with this education master's degree.

English Language Learning (PreK–12) – M.A.

An online master's degree for current teachers whose next career goal...

An online master's degree for current teachers whose next career goal includes a focus on teaching in ELL or ESL settings.

• Time: 62% of students earn this degree within 17 months.
• Courses: 11 total courses in this program.

This program is for current teachers who are looking to add ELL or ESL to their license.

• Assessment Theory and Practice
• Language Production, Theory and Acquisition
• Instruction Planning and Implementation
• Theories of Second Language Acquisition

Grow your teaching career on a commitment to ensuring language barriers don't become a barrier to learning with this education master's degree.

English Language Learning (PreK–12) Endorsement Prep

An online program for currently licensed elementary and secondary school...

An online program for currently licensed elementary and secondary school teachers who desire to be licensed to teach in ELL or ESL settings.

Become highly qualified in ELL or ESL, increase your career opportunities, earn re-licensure points, and possibly become eligible for lane changes leading to increased salary.

• Time: 62% of students finish within 13 months.
• Courses: 8 total courses in this program.

This program is for current teachers who are looking to earn an ELL/ESL endorsement.

Advance your teaching career and help ensure language barriers don't become a barrier to learning.

Other Online Education Degree Options

These online, non-licensure educational studies degrees prepare you to...

These online, non-licensure educational studies degrees prepare you to make a difference in a field that interests you.

Based on your career goals and interests, you can choose an educational studies program in one of 10 content areas that meets your needs while working toward employment in school settings, corporate training, or instructional design. These programs do not lead to a teaching license.

• Time:  Completion time varies depending on the specialty track you choose.
• This bachelor's degree allows students to learn about education but does not include student teaching and it does not lead to a teaching license.

Focus areas of this educational studies degree program include:

• Elementary Education
• Elementary and Special Education
• Mild to Moderate Special Education
• Secondary Biology Science Education
• Secondary Chemistry Science Education
• Secondary Earth Science Education
• Secondary Physics Education
• Middle Grades Science Education
• Secondary Mathematics Education
• Middle Grade Mathematics Education

The M.Ed. in Education Technology and Instructional Design from WGU is for...

The M.Ed. in Education Technology and Instructional Design from WGU is for instructional designers tasked with creating engaging and immersive virtual learning experiences that can substitute for on-ground instruction.

No teaching license required.

• Time: 62% of students finish this program in 10 months.
• Tuition:  $3,975 per 6-month term
• Courses:  12 total courses in this program.

This program includes two tracks for students to choose from:

• The K-12 pathway
• The Adult Learner pathway
• Learning Experience Design
• Assessment and Learning Analytics
• Learning Technology
• Research Methodology

Develop training and instruction expertise to help you in the classroom, in educational settings, or in corporate world.

An online master's degree for those who have educational experience and...

An online master's degree for those who have educational experience and are looking to further their careers with a graduate program focused on curriculum development and design.

• Time: 62% of students earn this degree within 12 months.
• Differentiated Instruction
• Curriculum and Instruction Design
• Educational Research

Help schools create engaging, meaningful, and memorable learning experiences to improve learning outcomes for all students with this M.S. degree.

Education Programs

Here at WGU, we offer bachelor's and master's degrees that lead to a teaching license, master's degrees for current teachers to add to their licensure, and other master's degree programs focused on educational development. Whatever your career goals are, there is a program at WGU that can help you reach them. Learn more about which type of education degree program is the best fit for you.

View Bachelor's Degrees

Programs leading to a bachelor's degree and preparation for an initial teaching license.

View MAT Degrees

Master's degree programs for those who already hold a bachelor's degree, but are interested in an initial teaching license.

View Master's Degrees With Licensure

Master's degree programs for current teachers who want to add to their teaching license.

View M.S. Ed Degrees

Master of Science in Education programs for current teachers or other professionals looking to further their career.  

Find the Right Teaching Career for You

Teachers are role models who truly make a difference to their young students. But teaching is much more than helping kids learn to read and do math. Teachers change lives, and it takes a special kind of person to be an outstanding teacher.

Become a Teacher

Find Your Career Fit

WGU vs. Traditional Universities Compare the Difference

Traditional Universities

AVG. yearly tuition For BACHELOR’S DEGREES

AVG. yearly tuition For MASTER’S DEGREES

TUITION STRUCTURE

Per credit hour

Flat rate per 6-month term

A counselor you have to schedule time with

An individual Program Mentor who knows your goals and schedule

Scheduled time

Whenever you feel ready

Professor led lectures at a certain time and place

Courses available anytime, from anywhere

* Average yearly bachelor's degree tuition according to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (2022). ** Average yearly master's tuition according to data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (2022).

See a Breakdown of Course Costs

Education scholarships.

WGU Become a Teacher Scholarship

For aspiring teachers, this scholarship can be applied toward any of WGU’s Teachers College degree programs leading to teacher licensure.

WGU Loves Teachers  Scholarship

For prospective teachers who want to earn their teacher certification and current educators ready to advance their careers.

WGU's K–12 Partner  Scholarship

For the men and women who work in America’s K–12 schools and districts who desire to earn a WGU bachelor's or master's degree.

Start Your College Journey at WGU

WGU has built a special, accelerated path for students ages 14-18 with a high school diploma or equivalent, and their families. Now enrolling for this exclusive opportunity.

Thought Leadership: Cutting-Edge Conversations on Education

Learn about trends in the education profession from the largest school of education in the country from the WGU Learning Community.

More Resources for Education Students

What Benefits Do Teachers Get?

Learn about the perks and benefits associated with being a teacher, and how they affect one's bottom line.

Meet More WGU Education Alumni 

Learn more about the experiences of distinguished WGU graduates.

What is EdTech? And What Are the Benefits?

Learn more about the risks and rewards of using EdTech in the classroom and how advancements enhance education.

What School of Education Alumni Are Saying

People love their WGU experience. See why it means so much to them, and what makes us different.

"The quality of education is fantastic and yet attainable even on my own. I usually do not learn well in an online setting, but this program made it easy because it was well laid out and the instructors always answered questions in a timely and effective manner. "

— Jayme Benabides, M.Ed. Learning and Technology grad

"Not only did WGU provide the opportunity for me to earn the education I never finished, their competency program provided quality knowledge which opened doors which had been locked. I am forever grateful."

— Rodney Clause, M.A. Math Ed. grad, M.S. Ed. Leadership grad, M.Ed. Learning & Technology grad

"Others may think academia is not for them, but earning a college degree is vastly more than solely a person’s intellectual capacity. Earning my degree from WGU demonstrates effort, resilience, and pride. That is what earning my degree from WGU means to me."

— Antonio Romayor, Jr., M.Ed. Learning & Technology grad

Turn Your Passion Into an Education Career

As a nonprofit organization, WGU provides a convenient, cost-effective path to your bachelor's or master's degree in education.

Progress through courses as soon as you can prove you’ve mastered the material, rather than advancing only when the semester or term ends. 

WGU is about real-world results—providing an impressive return on the investment. A WGU degree tells employers that you will be an asset to the team. 

School of Education FAQs

Can you get a teaching degree online.

Yes. It is possible to get a teaching degree online. Many universities offer accredited online programs where students can earn a bachelor's or master's degree in teaching. Often, students are also required to complete observation hours and demonstrate teaching experience at a local school. At universities like WGU, students are worked with individually and paired with a suitable school for this commitment.

How much does an online teaching degree cost?

Online bachelor's degrees cost on average $38,000 to more than $60,000 in total cost. Some online universities allow students to finish quickly while paying less. At WGU, for example, students are charged per six-month term instead of per credit. This means they often can finish their degrees in somewhere between 6 and 24 months. Tuition per six-month term is $3,825 with cost varying depending on how many terms a student takes to finish their degree.

How long does it take to get a teaching degree online?

Through most online programs, it takes roughly two to four years to earn a teaching degree. Many programs require a final project, thesis, and teaching experience as part of a capstone course before a degree is granted. Some universities, like WGU, allow students to complete a degree in 36 months on average through term-based tuition and a competency-based model.

How do I get an online teaching degree?

A bachelor's degree is the minimum education required to become a licensed teacher in every state. These teaching degrees require approximately 120 credits and take about four years to complete. However, an online degree may allow you to accelerate your program and graduate faster. Graduates can go on to teach in early childhood programs, public schools, and private schools.

What can I do with a teaching degree?

Teaching degrees open many career pathways. Most online teaching degrees are designed to lead to licensure, or add an endorsement to an existing license, so the most direct career pathway is working as a classroom teacher. Professional offerings include preparation for positions as a school administrator, curriculum specialist/designer, instructional designer, and technology specialist.

Further positions within the education world that may be open to those with a degree in teaching include: guidance counselor, instructional coach, positions within the Department of Education, school administrator, educational consultant, college or university academic advisor, school librarian, school technology specialist, private tutor, museum educator, after-school program coordinator, or positions within educational tools companies – i.e. textbook companies and companies that develop educational resources.

What can I do with an education degree?

In addition to becoming a teacher, an education degree could put you on a path to these careers. Keep in mind that they may also require additional training:

• Education consultant
• Juvenile corrections worker
• School psychologist
• Guidance counselor
• Career counselor
• Child life specialist
• Recruiter or admission counselor
• Family counselor

What are the types of education degrees?

There are many different types of degrees and certifications you can get in education. At the most basic level, they include the following:

• Certificate in Teaching and Education
• Associate Degree in Teaching and Education
• Bachelor Degree in Teaching and Education
• Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)—These degree programs typically lead to initial licensure
• Master of Science in Education (M.Ed)—These degree programs typically are for advanced education positions, not teaching
• Doctoral Degree in Teaching and Education

You can get subject-specific teaching degrees in several different areas—for instance in science education, math education, or special education.

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Flexible, High-Quality Programs to Advance Your Career

Today’s work landscape is constantly evolving, making it challenging to stay a step ahead and successfully differentiate yourself as the “best candidate” for that promotion or new position.

Early and mid-career professionals need to keep their skills and industry knowledge up to date, acumen sharp, and build connections that will help them excel in their field and achieve their career goals. And they need the ability to do it on their own time–while working full time and enjoying home life–without settling for a lower quality education.

Clarkson’s online master’s, certificate and micro-credential programs offer the high-quality and reputable education we’re known for – taught by experienced faculty with decades of teaching and industry experience – in a flexible and easily accessible format.

Because in 2024, it isn’t just about “work-life” balance. It’s about work-life-study balance.  

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Office of Graduate Admissions   Email : [email protected]   Phone : 518-631-9831

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Online Graduate Programs

Clarkson University’s fully online degree programs, courses and continuing education options allow you to advance your career through every stage — whether you’re new to the workforce and looking to set yourself up for future opportunities or a seasoned professional looking to land a promotion.

We created our online graduate programs with professionals in mind. As you have unique lives and personal objectives for advancing your education, our online programs offer maximum flexibility so you can earn a reputable degree that fits into your daily life. 

You can feel confident knowing you'll leave Clarkson with a valuable set of skills. In 2023, the Princeton Review included us in their "Best Career Services" and "Best Alumni Network" rankings. *And, for students prioritizing high earnings and economic mobility over other factors, Clarkson ranked tenth nationally for universities with less than 10,000 students and more than fifty percent STEM graduates in the New York Times 2023 rankings .

How Online Learning at Clarkson Works

We’re a community of collaborative innovators striving to make an impact through our work — whether in the lab, the boardroom or the field. That mindset remains steadfast no matter where we are: in our online courses, students continue growing their skills alongside other driven, creative individuals while learning from world-renowned faculty.

Fully Online

We currently offer 10+ master’s programs and 13 certificate programs that can be completed fully online. These programs allow you to further your education in a number of areas like engineering, computer science, data science and business.

Course Structure

Our online graduate degree programs combine synchronous and asynchronous learning. Typically, you’ll participate in one live virtual class each week; however, we record the lecture for those unable to attend this time slot. As a result, some students are able to complete their degrees entirely asynchronously.

Part- And Full-Time Study

Most working professionals are interested in part-time study. Our online graduate programs are flexible, so you can take just one course at a time, take on a full-time course schedule, or take time off if needed. Your academic advisor will help you plan out your course schedule and make changes to your degree plan, if needed.

Online Courses and Professional Development

We’re here whenever your skills need a refresh. And, as America’s Corporate Partner University, we collaborate with employers to create fully online professional development programs for their workforce.

Individual Courses

Clarkson offers fully online or paired online courses to currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students. Check availability for the fall, spring and summer semesters.

Advanced Certificates

Broaden your knowledge base or pivot to an emerging field. For candidates holding a bachelor’s degree, our advanced certificates introduce you to business fundamentals or applications in supply chain management, human resources, data analytics, healthcare management and other areas. And if you decide to move forward with a master’s degree upon completion of the certificate, you can apply those credits towards your degree!

Micro-Credentials

Specialize your engineering and technical knowledge, explore the foundations of leadership or get a glimpse of what it takes to succeed as an entrepreneur. Taught by Clarkson faculty, our micro-credentials are open to alumni and working professionals, as well as current students. Contact the Office of Micro-credentials at [email protected] for more information.

Take the Next Step

Access a Clarkson education at any professional stage, in a format convenient to you.

Best Online Master's in Education Programs

These are the best online master's in education degree programs. Highly ranked programs have strong traditional academic foundations based on student-instructor access, graduation rates and instructor credentials. They also excel at educating distance learners while offering robust career and financial support. Read the Best Online Programs Methodology  »

Here are the best online master's in education programs

Clemson university (moore), university of florida, university of virginia, university at albany--suny, san diego state university, university of north texas, arizona state university, michigan state university, university of illinois urbana-champaign.

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Clemson , SC

#1 in Education Programs

At Clemson University (Moore), a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. The application deadline for online... Read more

Gainesville , FL

#2 in Education Programs (tie)

At University of Florida, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Ninety-three percent of students are... Read more

Charlottesville , VA

At University of Virginia, a public institution, the majority of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Seventy-one percent of students... Read more

Albany , NY

#4 in Education Programs

At University at Albany--SUNY, a public institution, the majority of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. The application deadline... Read more

San Diego , CA

#5 in Education Programs (tie)

At San Diego State University, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. One hundred percent of students... Read more

Denton , TX

At University of North Texas, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. One hundred percent of students are... Read more

Phoenix , AZ

#7 in Education Programs (tie)

At Arizona State University, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Ninety-two percent of students are... Read more

East Lansing , MI

At Michigan State University, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Ninety-one percent of students are... Read more

Champaign , IL

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a public institution. Eighty-nine percent of students are already employed when they first enroll, and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign does not require... Read more

Auburn University

Auburn , AL

#10 in Education Programs (tie)

At Auburn University, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. The application deadline for online education... Read more

University of Wisconsin--Madison

Madison , WI

At University of Wisconsin--Madison, a public institution, the majority of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Forty-six percent... Read more

Kansas State University

Manhattan , KS

#12 in Education Programs (tie)

At Kansas State University, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Twenty-five percent of students are... Read more

Texas A&M University--College Station

College Station , TX

At Texas A&M University--College Station, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Eighty-nine percent of... Read more

University of Massachusetts--Lowell

Lowell , MA

At University of Massachusetts--Lowell, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. The application deadline... Read more

Montclair State University (College for Education and Engaged Learning)

Montclair , NJ

#15 in Education Programs (tie)

At Montclair State University (College for Education and Engaged Learning), a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on... Read more

Purdue University--Main Campus

West Lafayette , IN

At Purdue University--Main Campus, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. The application deadline for... Read more

University of Georgia

Athens , GA

At University of Georgia, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Eighty-eight percent of students are... Read more

University of Houston

Houston , TX

At University of Houston, a public institution, the majority of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Seventy-nine percent of students... Read more

Pennsylvania State University--World Campus

University Park , PA

#19 in Education Programs (tie)

At Pennsylvania State University--World Campus, a public institution, all of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. Ninety-six percent... Read more

The University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa , AL

At The University of Alabama, a public institution, the majority of the online education classes are recorded and archived so students can access the information on their time. The application deadline... Read more

Erie 109 University Square Erie, PA 16541

Ruskin 105 Commercial Center Drive Ruskin, FL 33573

Phone Number 1-800-GANNON-U

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• About Gannon

Campus Locations

Gannon's online degree programs are designed for busy professionals balancing a career and home life. With flexible class schedules, Gannon's distance learning programs allow students to continue their education without putting their lives on hold. Class work can be completed at any time before the due date, and after the initial orientation session, students never have to attend online classes at scheduled times.

Gannon's academic programs give students a competitive edge over other candidates and provide the relevant skills necessary to succeed in top career fields. Our degree programs are accredited by The Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and we have earned a top ranking in "America's Best Colleges" by U.S. News and World Report. 

By bringing our programs online, we at Gannon University are fulfilling and expanding our mission to offer students an outstanding, value-centered education that prepares students for professional and personal leadership.

• Erie, Pennsylvania
• Ruskin, Florida
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Distance Education

A.J. Palumbo Academic Center 3010A Phone: (814) 871-7134 Email: [email protected]

UCF Graduate Programs Reach New Heights in U.S. News Rankings Through Research Excellence, Impactful Community Engagement

UCF’s emergency management program ranks No. 1 in the nation, and programs in education and public affairs climbed in U.S. News & World Report ’s Best Graduate Schools rankings.

By Mark Schlueb ’93 ’21MA | April 9, 2024

UCF is a leading metropolitan research university known for helping students unleash their potential and advancing innovation in our community and state. Led by world-class faculty members with unrivaled industry experience, UCF’s graduate programs continue to earn top national recognitions for accomplishing those goals and more.

More than 9,000 UCF students enroll in UCF’s graduate programs to advance their careers or launch new ones. And many are thriving on campus and after graduation in programs ranked among the best in the nation.

U.S. News & World Report has recognized UCF’s exceptional faculty and graduate programs in its 2024 list of Best Graduate Schools. UCF’s emergency management program ranks No. 1 in the nation, and four programs rank in the top 25. Nine graduate programs placed in the top 50 nationally, including five in public affairs, three in education and one in health. U.S. News will release rankings for the engineering and medicine categories at a later date.

“UCF’s world-class faculty excel at providing our graduate students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive as innovative leaders and creators,” says President Alexander N. Cartwright. “The U.S. News rankings demonstrate that our students graduate well-prepared to unleash their potential in individual, business, and government sectors that are growing in Florida and vital to our economy, health, and quality of life.”

UCF Grads Shape Emergency Responses Nationwide

UCF has a proven track record in emergency management. The university’s Master of Emergency and Crisis Management program — which is offered the College of Community Innovation and Education — has climbed the rankings over seven consecutive years. The homeland security program and its faculty researchers enable students to navigate increasingly complex manmade and natural disasters, while learning from past disasters to improve their preparedness and response in the future.

Graduates of the program go on to become leaders in directing and implementing emergency responses in Florida and throughout the country, including in Boston and Washington, D.C. They are saving lives, helping communities prepare as well as possible to navigate disasters, and putting into practice the lessons they learned from outstanding faculty who contribute to  national research and regional solutions related to crises .

“Our students are equipped to assist communities and organizations in every phase of emergency management — from preparedness and mitigation to response and recovery,” says  Claire Connolly Knox, professor in UCF’s School of Public Administration.

“We are thrilled to be ranked No. 1 and nationally recognized again as a leader in emergency and crisis management,” she adds. “This honor highlights the innovative and community-focused research by our faculty and continuous engagement with community partners invested in our outstanding students and alumni.”

Other highlights include:

• 12 in Education — Student Counseling and Personnel Services
• 15 in Public Affairs — Nonprofit Management, up three spots since last year
• 21 in Public Affairs — Public Management and Leadership, up five spots since last year
• 27 in Public Affairs — Public Finance and Budgeting
• 32 in Education — Curriculum and Instruction
• 41 in Health — Physical Therapy
• 42 in Best Education Schools, up four spots since last year
• 47 in Public Affairs
• 59 in Nursing — Doctor of Nursing Practice

UCF’s many strong rankings are a testament to the excellence of UCF’s faculty, who bring to the classroom extensive experience in academia, industry and research, as well as to the university’s commitment to help students unleash their potential in a culture focused on collaboration and finding solutions that benefit our society.

UCF students who have graduated from the nonprofit management program have gone on to make a big impact by helping communities in Florida and beyond. In one example, more than 12 years ago, program graduate Eric Camarillo ’16 ’19MNM launched faith-based nonprofit organization SALT Outreach Inc. in Central Florida to help provide services to the homeless, including mobile shower trailers, laundry, clothing, haircuts, mail services and help with employment. SALT has grown to more than 30 staff members who help hundreds of people every day.

“Throughout the School of Public Administration, our faculty, staff and advisory boards have worked hard to ensure we are offering students in Central Florida, across the country and around the globe a world-class, innovative education,” says Doug Goodman, professor and school director. “We are honored to be recognized as leaders in emergency management, nonprofit management, public leadership management and public finance and budgeting, fields that are critical to the health and well-being of our citizens and the success of our communities.”

The Best Graduate Education Schools category includes graduate-level educator preparation and advancement programs, such as teacher education, school counseling and psychology, educational leadership, and curriculum and instruction, all offered through the College of Community Innovation and Education. The college offers graduate students numerous opportunities to collaborate closely with expert faculty, from receiving mentorship and support in research and scholarship to engaging in robust internships and field experiences with school district, nonprofit and agency partners. Some faculty members also lead federally funded projects that offer tuition assistance and prepare students to work with students in high-need schools.

UCF’s continued rise has also drawn praise from other outlets:

• In February, U.S. News & World Report released its best online program national rankings, which placed UCF tied at No. 7 in the nation for best online bachelor’s programs. Of the 14 UCF national rankings from U.S. News , six online programs made the top 10, two made the top 15 and three were in the top 50. UCF has ranked in the top 20 overall Best Online Programs for the past seven years.
• In March, The Princeton Review and PC Gamer recognized UCF’s game design programs among the best in the world. The graduate Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy is ranked No. 1 in the world for the fourth time in five years. The undergraduate game design program, Games and Interactive Media (GaIM) in UCF’s Nicholson School of Communication and Media, achieved its highest ranking ever, advancing to No. 5 in the world.
• Sports Business Journal named Orlando the No. 1 Best Sports Business City for event hosting, including the NBA, Orlando City and Orlando Pride Soccer, the nation’s premier tennis center, college football bowl games, the NFL Pro Bowl, U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, the Arnold Palmer Invitational — and, of course, the UCF Knights. With its inaugural season in the Big 12 Conference in 2023, UCF has skyrocketed to unprecedented success as the youngest Power Four program in the country. With one of the country’s  top graduate sports business programs , UCF has also provided a pipeline of talented graduates to some of the nation’s biggest sports brands.

More Topics

Pegasus magazine.

Founded to help fuel talent for the nearby space industry , UCF continues to build its reputation as SpaceU. Here's a look at the early days of UCF's space ties and journey to new frontiers.

Spotify tests video courses to teach everything from music production to Excel

Spotify has carved out a business for itself in music streaming, podcast entertainment and audiobooks. Now, in its ongoing efforts to get its 600 million+ users to spend more time and money on its platform, Spotify is spinning up a new line of content: e-learning.

Starting with a rollout in the U.K., Spotify is testing the waters for an online education offering of freemium video courses. Produced in partnership with third parties like the BBC and Skillshare, at least two lessons will be free, with the cost of a total course ranging from £20 to £80 on average. The prices will be the same, regardless of whether you are a basic or premium user, at least for now.

Mohit Jitani, the London-based product director for the education business, said in an interview that pricing choices were part of what it’s testing before considering how to roll out more widely. “With this launch, we’re trying to understand the demand first,” he said. “Then we optimize how we can make it more compelling and exciting.”

The content will live in both Spotify’s home and browse tabs (under “Courses”), and it’s accessible on the web as well as via the Spotify mobile app.

The courses are pitched somewhere between YouTube, Master Class and LinkedIn Learning: Videos in the current catalog cover a wide range of subjects, from music production through to learning how to use Excel, as well as lessons on — you guessed it — how to create online learning lessons to turn musicians and others into “education creators.”

Unsurprising for a market estimated to have been worth more than $315 billion in 2023 , there are plenty of online learning sites on the web these days, some of which have been innovators in interactive content and other media formats — you can even find a number of startups aspiring to be the “Spotify for education” if you Google that term — Spotify’s educational push is focused around one-directional, on-demand video.

Some courses appear to have supplementary material, although that will be more in the realm of extra documents rather than tests or other interactions. Jitani declined to comment on whether Spotify would launch any kind of interaction or gamification in the future — or, indeed, if games of any kind are on its roadmap right now.

The first partners for Courses are Skillshare (which will focus on creatives), PLAYvirtuoso (music industry courses), BBC Maestro (Master Class-esque) and Thinkific (for those inspired to build their skills into online learning classes of their own).

Spotify, Jitani said, would be looking to curate which courses it offers, and it will base curation on what people are already listening to and searching for on its platform. There appears to be no limit, though. If you look at the catalogs of these respective providers, you’ll see that the topics cover a pretty wide breadth — and bread .

“We’ll learn a lot about what people are actually interested in [and] we will start getting a lot of segments around that,” Jitani said. “And then we’ll go and find… the best content.”

Third-party publishers own the videos and license them to Spotify, but they will be hosted and purchased on Spotify itself. In terms of revenue share, the creator, publisher and Spotify will all get a share of the sales, with content partners overseeing payments to creators.

Spotify isn’t specifying what kind of cut will be going to whom, nor whether it will potentially offer any kind of discount or other benefit to users who are already premium subscribers on the platform.

Why education? Why the UK?

The move points to Spotify’s strategy to continue diversifying its business, while also aiming to build a path to more consistent profitability and stronger margins. It’s picked the U.K. for this, Jitani said, because it’s a huge market for the company and is already one of the most engaged in the world.

Financially, Spotify continues to see a lot of ups and downs in the current market. It went through three rounds of layoffs last year; and it has been unprofitable more than profitable over the years, most recently posting a net loss of $81 million   in its quarterly earnings in February .

Yes, the dry realms of online learning and professional development might sound like a reach for a company still best known for music streaming, but there are three areas where it makes some sense.

With its podcasting business continuing to grow, Spotify is picking up a lot of data on what people are doing on the platform, and it’s finding a close correlation between some of the most popular podcasts on Spotify and education content.

Around half of Spotify Premium subscribers have listened to education or self-help themed podcasts, Spotify says. Spotify can use the same kind of recommendation surfacing that it uses for music and podcasts to cross-promote. Think of a podcast with a “business guru” now recommending a paid course with that person. Spotify’s making a bet that one will help sell the other.

Alongside this, Spotify has long been working on tools for creators to help them manage and grow their earnings. Offering educational content aimed at running a business, or improving your music production, fits with that.

Third of all, there is the video element. Spotify’s been trying to get deeper into video for the better part of a decade.

That hasn’t translated to being a YouTube or Netflix rival yet. Video was mentioned a grand total of one time in the company’s last earning call, where CEO Daniel Ek vaguely described video podcasting as “growing in a healthy way.” But it launched music videos in select markets earlier this month, and now we have an earnest effort in educational videos. It may find its groove yet.