2023 Best Online Master's Degrees in Secondary Education
Teachers often rely on advanced expertise to continue meeting the diverse needs of students as they progress out of elementary and into middle and high school. An online master's degree in secondary education can help you develop next-level skills that adequately prepare you for a teaching role at this level. If you're still undecided about pursuing a graduate degree in this field, you can read about whether a master's in education is worth it.
We've ranked the best schools based on salary score so you can make the best choice while staying within budget and meeting career goals. View our methodology for more details about our list, or learn more about OnlineU.
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Online Secondary Education Master's Degrees You May Be Interested In
Annual Tuition: $11,538
7 Programs (view all)
Annual Tuition: $8,475
5 Programs (view all)
Annual Tuition: $7,790
11 Programs (view all)
#1 Pace University
- Salary Score: 100
- Median Starting Salary: $68,104
- Locations: New York (NY)
- Accreditation: MSCHE
Pace University is a private, nonprofit institution offering an online Master of Science in Education, Literacy Specialist - Middle Childhood/Adolescent (grades 5-12). This program also helps students meet the requirements for an advanced or professional certificate in Middle Childhood/Adolescent (grades 5–12) literacy. This 30-credit program generally takes full-time students 1.5 years to complete.
Pace delivers online curriculum via Brightspace. Students in this online education program enroll in courses such as Teaching Literacy Skills to Children with Special Needs, Literature and Digital Storytelling, Foundations of Bilingual Education, and Creating Responsive Early Childhood Environments. They must also complete a practicum and capstone project to graduate.
#2 UMass Global
- Salary Score: 95
- Median Starting Salary: $58,796
- Locations: Multiple Locations
- Accreditation: WSCUC
The University of Massachusetts Global (UMass) is a private, nonprofit institution offering an online Master of Arts in Teaching, Secondary Education with a Single Subject Credential accredited by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. This remote program is available to California residents only. Graduating requires completing a minimum of 39 credits. However, an additional 12 may be necessary if an internship or teaching experience is required. Full-time students may complete this program in two years.
UMass uses Blackboard as its learning management system (LMS), which delivers online coursework and instruction. Classes to choose from include The Art and Craft of Teaching, Collaboration for Inclusive Schooling, and Effective Literacy Instruction for Single Subject Candidates. The program curriculum can help prepare online students to teach a single subject in California at the middle or high school level.
#3 California State University - Fullerton
- Salary Score: 91
- Median Starting Salary: $56,978
- Locations: Fullerton (CA)
- Accreditation: WSCUC
California State University - Fullerton (CSU Fullerton) is a public institution offering an online Master of Science in Transformative Teaching in Secondary Education. Students choose one of two advising pathways: (1) Cross-Disciplinary or (2) Teaching Foundational Mathematics. Those attending full time may complete this 31-credit program in 21 months by taking two classes each term and two during the summer.
CSU Fullerton delivers online course content and instruction via the Canvas LMS. The online curriculum for this secondary education degree includes the following courses: Curriculum Theory and Development, Advanced Proficiency in Educational Technologies, Conceptual Foundations of Culturally and Linguistically Sustaining Teaching, and Graduate Studies in Secondary School Writing. Students must also complete a capstone project to graduate.
#4 The George Washington University
- Salary Score: 90
- Median Starting Salary: $56,156
- Locations: Washington D.C.
- Accreditation: MSCHE
George Washington University (GWU) is a private, nonprofit institution offering an online Master of Arts in Education and Human Development in Interdisciplinary Secondary Transition Services. Coursework is aligned with the Council for Exceptional Children's Advanced Transition Specialist Standards for Preparation and Practice. This 30-credit program may take two years of full-time attendance to complete.
GWU's online students access coursework and instruction through the LMS Blackboard. Those enrolled in this online education and human development program enroll in classes such as Foundations of Transition Discoveries Youth Driven Practice, Leadership in Disability Public Policy, Person-Centered Assessment Practices, and Universal Design for Learning and Assessment. They must also complete an internship to graduate. Alumni often pursue careers as secondary educators, agency transition professionals, and other positions within academia.
#5 New York University
- Salary Score: 88
- Median Starting Salary: $55,548
- Locations: New York (NY)
- Accreditation: MSCHE
New York University (NYU) is a private, nonprofit institution offering an online Master of Arts in Teaching - Secondary Education. Content area options include English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Special Education. While this is a primarily online program, students are required to complete a residency at partner schools across the United States. Graduating requires 30 credit hours, which may take full-time students at least two years.
NYU provides access to Brightspace, an LMS that allows students to access online content and instruction. Modules within the online master's in secondary education program include Preparation/Foundation, Active Practice, and Peak Teaching. Instruction within these modules supports a progressive learning experience. Once they graduate, students achieve recommendations for initial certification in New York State if desired.
#6 Wilkes University
- Salary Score: 79
- Median Starting Salary: $53,044
- Locations: Wilkes-Barre (PA)
- Accreditation: MSCHE
Wilkes University (WU) is a private university offering an online Master of Science in Teaching with Initial Teaching Certificate, which requires 30 credit hours. Concentration options include Middle Level Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and English/Language Arts. Students studying on a full-time schedule can complete this program in two years.
Students at WU use the Brightspace learning management system to access their core online courses and earn their initial teaching certificate, which is achieved entirely online. The curriculum for this program utilizes practical learning techniques and research-based strategies to develop lesson plans and deliver content in the classroom. There are required courses, such as Behavior Management; Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening; and Teaching and Development of Adolescent Learners. Students also gain field experience in their local area. Graduates may earn career opportunities as middle school teachers and curriculum writers.
#7 Texas A&M University - Commerce
- Salary Score: 75
- Median Starting Salary: $52,054
- Locations: Commerce (TX)
- Accreditation: SACS COC
Texas A&M University - Commerce (TAMUC) is a public institution with an online Master of Education/Science in Secondary Education requiring the completion of 36 credit hours. There are tracks available in Educator Certificated, New to Educating, and Dual Credit Educator. Typically, students graduate between one-and-a-half and two years while studying full time.
All online courses at TAMUC are delivered through the Brightspace learning management system. This allows students to study completely online and around the schedule of working professionals. This degree is meant for certified teachers looking to advance their understanding of curriculum design and instruction in order to prepare for leadership roles. Among the major requirements are Secondary School Curriculum, Learning Theories and Philosophy, and Models of Technology in Secondary School. Students may be hired as high school teachers, instructional coach, and community college instructor.
#8 University of Hawaii at Manoa
- Salary Score: 71
- Median Starting Salary: $51,137
- Locations: Honolulu (HI)
- Accreditation: WSCUC
The University of Hawaii at Manoa (UHM) is a public university that offers an online Master of Education in Teaching in Secondary and Special Education. This degree requires 46 credit hours, which are generally completed in two years while studying full time.
Laulima is the main learning platform used by UHM students for their coursework, which can be completed in a hybrid online/in-person format with four campus meetings per semester. The online portion takes place synchronously. The program offers a travel stipend for students participating in the statewide option. Students engage in a combination of field work and core coursework while taking specialized courses in their preferred area of content. Among the required credits are classes, such as Principles of Behavior, Advanced Assessment and Curriculum Development, and Strategies Across Content Area. Upon completion of the program students will be recommended for a teacher's license to seek teaching positions at their local schools.
#9 Wilson College
- Salary Score: 71
- Median Starting Salary: $51,064
- Locations: Chambersburg (PA)
- Accreditation: MSCHE
Wilson College is a private institution that features an online Master of Special Education - PK-12 Certification requiring 33 credit hours. The completion time for this degree is approximately two years for full-time students.
Wilson College students use Canvas as their learning management system, where courses are delivered entirely online and on a flexible timeline. The core curriculum for this program explores theory and research-based practices and is designed for educators with current certifications. Here are a few examples of required courses for the PK-12 concentration: Creating an Effective Classroom Culture, Advanced Studies in Disabilities, and Secondary Instructional Methods. Students must also complete a special education practicum and thesis project. Career opportunities include instructional coordinators, education administrators, and adult literacy teachers.
#10 Indiana University of Pennsylvania - Main Campus
- Salary Score: 66
- Median Starting Salary: $50,155
- Locations: Indiana (PA) (and 2 others)
- Accreditation: MSCHE
Indiana University of Pennsylvania - Main Campus (IUP) is a public university that offers an online Master of Education in Mathematics Education - Secondary. This online degree requires 36 credit hours, which are generally completed in two years while studying full time.
Brightspace is the primary learning platform used by IUP students for their coursework. The online education master's degree program can be completed 100% online and in an asynchronous format. This program uses research-based practices to advance students' understanding of mathematics and how to deliver effective instructions. Among the required credits are classes such as Differentiated Instruction in Mathematics Education, Teaching of Problem Solving in Mathematics Education, and Curriculum and Instruction in Mathematics Education. Additional credits can be used towards an internship or thesis project. Graduates may earn leadership roles as college instructors, middle school department chairs, and mathematics coaches.
#11 Thomas University
- Salary Score: 66
- Median Starting Salary: $50,031
- Locations: Thomasville (GA)
- Accreditation: SACS COC
Thomas University (TU) is a private institution with an online Master of Education - Secondary Math requiring the completion of 34 credit hours. Applicants must have a higher teaching certificate to be considered. Typically, students graduate in approximately two years while studying full time.
All online courses at TU are delivered through the Canvas learning management system. This allows students to study completely online with courses delivered in a synchronous format. This degree examines ways to transform current mathematics research into practical classroom education. Students explore core classes such as Program Planning and Applying Technologies for Effective Instruction, while taking mathematics courses in Set Theory and Developing Algebraic Concepts. Students may be employed as middle school or high school mathematics teachers.
#12 Chaminade University of Honolulu
- Salary Score: 65
- Median Starting Salary: $49,912
- Locations: Honolulu (HI)
- Accreditation: WSCUC
Chaminade University of Honolulu (CUH) is a private university offering an online Master of Arts in Teaching - Secondary Education (6-12) requiring 39 credit hours. The Secondary Education (6-12) major requires students to choose from one of the following concentrations: Math, English, Science or Social Studies. Students studying on a full-time schedule can complete this program in as few as 18 months.
Students at CUH use the Canvas learning management system to access their core online courses, which are taught entirely online. Classroom dynamics, effective instructional strategies, and the ethics of teaching are studied during the course of this program, along with core classes in Learning Environments, Diverse Learners, and Secondary Methods. Graduates local to Hawaii will receive a recommendation for a license to teach professionally in the state. Students outside of Hawaii must check to see if this program meets their state's license requirements to pursue a teaching career.
#13 University of Nebraska at Omaha
- Salary Score: 63
- Median Starting Salary: $49,614
- Locations: Omaha (NE)
- Accreditation: HLC
University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is a public university offering an online Master of Science in Secondary Education that requires 36 credit hours. Concentrations are available in Bilingual Education, English, English as a Second Language, Equity and Social Justice in Education, Instructional Technology Leadership, Mathematics, Middle Level, School Library, Science, STEM, Teacher Academy Project, and Teaching and Learning. Students can complete this program in approximately two years while studying full time.
At UNO, students use Canvas for their remote courses which can be completed entirely online. This core of this program focuses on culturally responsive teaching practices, instructional research, theoretical frameworks, and digital pedagogy. Required classes include Current Issues and Trends in Education, Culturally Responsive Teaching, and Assessment for Classroom Teacher. A capstone project is also required. Graduates may explore roles as high school teachers, instructional coordinators, and curriculum development coordinators.
#14 University of Alaska Southeast
- Salary Score: 62
- Median Starting Salary: $49,402
- Locations: Juneau (AK)
- Accreditation: NWCCU
The University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) is a public institution with an online Master of Arts in Teaching - Secondary and Middle Grades Education requiring 36 credit hours. Students studying full time are likely to complete the degree in approximately 11 months for bachelor's degree holders.
UAS uses Blackboard to deliver its online coursework. This software allows students to finish their degrees completely online and on a schedule that meets their needs. The core curriculum prepares students to earn their teaching license as well as provides an understanding of the philosophy, developmental effects of learning, culturally respectful instruction, and guide planning. Required classes include Educational Psychology, Perspectives in Multicultural Education, and Secondary Methods for Teaching STEM. Students are also required to complete an eight-week internship. Career paths include middle school and high school teachers.
#15 University of Nebraska at Kearney
- Salary Score: 61
- Median Starting Salary: $49,159
- Locations: Kearney (NE)
- Accreditation: HLC
The University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) is a public university with an online Master of Arts in Education - Curriculum and Instruction: Secondary Education. This remote degree requires 36 credit hours, which full-time students can complete in approximately two years.
UNK students use Canvas as their primary learning management system, where they can complete courses 100% online. The curriculum for this program looks at advanced teaching and assessment methodologies with a focus on grades 7-12. Students should note that this program does not lead to certification. Among the required classes are Education Research, Philosophy of Education, and Technology Tools for Teachers. Students are also required to complete a curriculum and instruction graduate practicum. Career opportunities may be available as an instructional designer, literacy coach, and secondary teacher.
UNK also offers a Master of Arts in Education - School Principalship 7-12 that focuses on effective leadership skills and relationship building with teachers.
#16 The College of Saint Scholastica
- Salary Score: 61
- Median Starting Salary: $49,079
- Locations: Duluth (MN)
- Accreditation: HLC
The College of Saint Scholastica (CSS) is a private university that hosts an online Master of Science in Teaching - Secondary Education (5-12). Graduation requirements state that students must complete 34 credit hours which can be done in approximately two years on a full-time schedule. Concentrations are available in Chemistry, Communication Arts and Literature, Life Science, Math, and Social Studies.
Online students at CSS use Brightspace as their learning management system. Courses are delivered online and take place once per week. This is a hands-on program where students take part in field work while learning teaching best practices and research. Graduates can meet the requirements for a teacher's license through this program in the school's home state of Minnesota. Required courses include Secondary Social Studies Methods, Math Methods: Middle Level, and Secondary Content Area Reading Strategies. Students are also required to complete a student teaching seminar, internship, and field experience. Graduates are likely to work as middle school and high school teachers.
#17 Goucher College
- Salary Score: 60
- Median Starting Salary: $49,016
- Locations: Baltimore (MD)
- Accreditation: MSCHE
Goucher College (GC) is a private institution that features an online Master of Arts in Teaching - Dual Secondary and Special Education (Grades 7-12) requiring 49 credit hours. The completion time for this degree is approximately two years for full-time students.
At GC, students use Canvas as their learning management system where courses are delivered entirely online. Three credits are devoted towards the core curriculum where students learn Curriculum Development in Education or Contemporary Issues in Education. The remaining courses are split between the areas of instructional and special education including Methods and Strategies in Secondary Education, Curriculum Design and Adaptations for Students with Special Needs, and Advanced Methods and Strategies in Secondary Reading Instruction. Students must also complete a year-long internship or supervised teaching experience. Career opportunities will be available as middle school teachers, high school teachers, and secondary school principals.
#18 Kennesaw State University
- Salary Score: 59
- Median Starting Salary: $48,689
- Locations: Kennesaw (GA)
- Accreditation: SACS COC
Kennesaw State University (KSU) is a public university that offers an online Master of Education in Secondary Education. This degree requires a minimum of 36 credit hours, which are generally completed in four to six semesters, or approximately two years, while studying full time.
KSU's main learning platform is Brightspace where students complete their coursework 100% online. This degree is designed to develop evidence-based instructional leaders that are able to develop strong relationships with their communities by utilizing and producing educational research, among other skills. Among the required credits are classes such as Reflective Inquiry for Transformative Teaching and Learning; Transformative Teaching and Learning with Families and Communities; andDifferentiation, Academic Language, and Assessment in Middle and Secondary Classrooms. Additional credits are required for a research-based capstone project. Graduates will be prepared to take roles as middle school or high school teachers.
#19 University of North Dakota
- Salary Score: 58
- Median Starting Salary: $48,631
- Locations: Grand Forks (ND)
- Accreditation: HLC
The University of North Dakota (UND) is a public institution with an online Master of Science in Teaching & Leadership - Middle/Secondary Education requiring the completion of 30 credit hours. The estimated completion time for this program is five semesters for full-time students.
All online courses at UND are delivered through the Blackboard learning management system. This allows students to study completely online and on a flexible schedule. Throughout this program students gain a better understanding of fundamental subjects in math, social studies, and science, while learning skills in grading, assessment, and peer coaching. Among the core requirements are classes such as Action Research, Leading K-12 Educator Learning, and Classroom-Based Coaching Practices. Additionally, students must complete a fieldwork placement, practicum, and internship. Students may be hired as assessment coordinators, assistant principals, behavioral support specialists.
#20 Brenau University
- Salary Score: 55
- Median Starting Salary: $48,070
- Locations: Multiple Locations
- Accreditation: SACS COC
Brenau University is a private university offering an online Master of Arts in Teaching - Secondary Education requiring 48 credit hours. Students studying on a full-time schedule can complete this program in approximately two years.
Students at Brenau University use the Canvas learning management system to access their core online courses, which are taught entirely online. The curriculum for this program is mostly focused on developing classroom skills. Students are required to take courses such as Computer Literacy in Education, Introduction to Special Education, and Contemporary Issues in Education, as well as taking on a full-time classroom experience for one semester. This program is best suited for students seeking a career as a middle school or high school teacher.
2023 Best Online Master's Degrees in Secondary Education
Rank | School | Salary Score | Median Starting Salary |
---|---|---|---|
Pace University | $68,104 | ||
UMass Global | 95 | $58,796 | |
California State University - Fullerton | 91 | $56,978 | |
The George Washington University | 90 | $56,156 | |
New York University | 88 | $55,548 | |
Wilkes University | 79 | $53,044 | |
Texas A&M University - Commerce | 75 | $52,054 | |
University of Hawaii at Manoa | 71 | $51,137 | |
Wilson College | 71 | $51,064 | |
Indiana University of Pennsylvania - Main Campus | 66 | $50,155 |
What Is a Master's in Secondary Education Degree?
Much like a general master's in education, a master's in secondary education prepares graduates for advanced roles in education. However, this degree is designed for people who want to focus on working with middle school and high school students in the classroom. A secondary education graduate program provides teacher candidates with advanced skills in instruction, lesson planning, classroom management, and more.
Master's degree earners can pursue alternative careers in education, as well. For example, some become instructional coordinators who work with teachers on developing curricula and creating instructional materials. Yet others go into administrative roles, overseeing school operations, activities, facilities, and staff.
Many master's in secondary education programs give students the opportunity to focus on an area of specialization. For example, some programs train teachers to work with specific student groups, such as children learning English as a second language (ESL) or children with special education needs. Other programs give graduates specialized skills in teaching specific content areas, such as reading and literacy, health, or physical education.
A master's degree in secondary education is just one of many education degrees you can earn. Learn more about your options with our Guide to Online Teaching Degrees.
Degree Requirements
Secondary education master's programs are available both online and on campus. Most require 30-40 credit hours, which full-time learners often complete in about two years. In-person and online programs typically include some type of supervised student teaching. These field experiences are often part of a state's licensure or credentialing requirements as well. Some programs also include a research project.
To be admitted to graduate school, applicants need to have completed a bachelor's degree at an accredited university with a 2.8 or higher GPA, typically. Depending on the program, the bachelor's degree in secondary education or education will need to be in a particular teaching subject, like English or math. However, students without a bachelor's in education or previous teaching experience can also apply to a master's program, although they may need to complete several prerequisite courses.
Other admission requirements may include letters of recommendation, a resume, a statement of purpose, and graduate test scores, such as GRE scores. Tuition and other expenses will vary depending on the school and program.
Courses
In an online master's degree in secondary education program, graduate students can expect to take a diverse array of courses. Some focus on advanced teaching skills, particularly on teaching single subjects, which is common for high school teachers. Programs may also include one or more research courses and several semesters of on-site training. Among the common core courses are:
Learning Theory
A learning theory attempts to explain how young students understand new information and integrate it into their body of knowledge. This course explores several of the most common learning theories, such as behaviorist learning theory and cognitivist learning theory. Teacher candidates then learn how to apply these concepts in the classroom to support their students.
Collaboration With Students, Families, and Communities
Research shows that young students whose parents are involved in their education are often more successful in the classroom. This course shows teacher candidates how to get parents and families involved, form partnerships with the families, and support each student by understanding their home life and environment.
Advanced Curriculum Design and Assessment
This course focuses on curriculum development, lesson planning and sequencing, and tracking learning outcomes. Teacher candidates explore the use of many types of assessment tools, and coursework may also include the administration and interpretation of standardized tests.
Technology In the Classroom
Many schools use various types of educational technology to teach common middle school and high school subjects, especially science, technology, education, and math (STEM) classes. This course introduces technological tools and shows teacher candidates how to use them in the classroom.
What Can You Do With a Master's in Secondary Education?
Master's degrees in secondary education programs are designed to prepare graduates for advanced roles in education, both in and out of the classroom. Depending on your career goals, they can also prepare you for even further education in specialized subjects.
Further Education
While many graduates establish rewarding teaching careers with only a bachelor's or master's degree, some choose to pursue a doctoral degree in education. Students have two distinct options for terminal degrees:
A Doctor of Education (EdD) program prepares graduates for high-level administrative roles at the regional school district and state level. Some individuals who earn this degree go into higher education as administrators or professors.
A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education focuses on the study of learning. This doctorate may be the better choice for those interested in conducting research to solve issues in education and improve learning outcomes.
Another option is to earn some type of postgraduate certificate in education. These programs allow enrollees to explore a topic in depth without completing an entire master's program. Certificate programs often require 9-12 credit hours, which can usually be completed in less than a year. Some of the many certificate content areas include educational leadership, online teaching, innovation, and STEM education.
Secondary Education Careers
Many graduates with master's degrees in secondary education work as teachers in middle schools and high schools. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), secondary teachers earn a median salary of $61,820. However, with a master's degree, you may be eligible to take on greater responsibilities and earn more money. For example, you may participate in developing course curricula, or you may be a lead teacher who helps train other teachers.
A master's in secondary education may also qualify you for specialized teaching roles — such as teaching English as a second language — which have a median annual salary of $59,720. You could also consider becoming an instructional coordinator with a median annual salary of $63,740 or a school principal with a median salary of $98,420.
Regardless of which educational occupation you choose, you will probably need to obtain a state-issued license or credential to work with children and young adults. Your state's licensure requirements may include a degree from an accredited program, a certain number of hours of relevant work experience, and a passing score on an exam.
If you're planning to earn your master's in secondary education online, be sure to choose a program that meets the requirements in the state where you plan to work, not just the state where your online college is located. All of the schools on our list of the best online master's in secondary education degrees are accredited.
Not sure if secondary education is the right master's for you? Consider earning a master's in school counseling, master's in educational leadership, or master's in elementary education.
Financing Your Master's Degree in Secondary Education
In addition to program focus, location, and format, cost is one of the most significant factors to consider when you're deciding on an on-campus or online master's degree in secondary education. Fortunately, master's students enrolled in accredited online degree programs are eligible for financial aid, which is provided by several different federal, state, and school sources.
To apply for financial aid, simply submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online form. After your application has been reviewed, you'll be notified if you qualify for aid, how much you're being offered, and in what forms. If you're already working in education, your employer may also offer some type of tuition reimbursement.
Scholarships and grants, such as the TEACH Grant, are ideal because they usually don't need to be paid back. Student loans are also available, but the loan interest can add a substantial amount to the total cost of your master's degree. Know what you're agreeing to by using our student loan repayment calculator before you accept a federal student loan or private student loan. Also keep in mind that your job as a teacher is considered a public service, which may qualify you for loan forgiveness.
Looking for a way to minimize the cost of earning a master's degree? Check out our lists of the most affordable secondary education master's degrees and the most affordable education master's degrees.
FAQs About Master's in Secondary Education Programs
How Much Can You Make With a Master's in Secondary Education?
State-by-state data presented by the National Education Association shows that teachers' salaries vary dramatically depending on where they live. However, it suggests that teachers with master's degrees typically earn $8,000-$12,000 more per year than those with only bachelor's degrees. The BLS notes that the median annual income is $61,820 for all secondary school teachers, $63,740 for instructional coordinators, and $98,420 for school principals.
Is a Master’s in Secondary Education MA or MS?
Master's in secondary education programs can be either Master of Arts (MS), Master of Science (MS), or Master of Education (MEd) programs. All of them will give you advanced skills in teaching, lesson planning, using technology, and managing your classroom, although MA and MS programs often include research methods and the use of research in solving problems. An MA program may involve more liberal arts coursework, while an MS program typically emphasizes data and statistics.
How Much Does a Master’s in Secondary Education Cost?
The cost of earning a secondary education master's degree varies depending on the school and format. To give you a general estimate, the NCES lists a cost of $19,749 per year for a graduate degree. This amounts to $39,498 for a two-year master's degree program. Fortunately, many accredited schools offer lower tuition rates for their online programs than for their in-person programs. For your convenience, we've compiled lists of the most affordable master's degree programs in education and secondary education.
Is a Master’s in Secondary Education Worth it?
When you think about the time and money you'll invest in earning an online secondary education master's degree, it's only natural to wonder whether this type of degree will be worth it. The answer, however, depends a great deal on your personal goals and circumstances. This advanced degree will qualify you to move beyond the classroom, helping students and teachers in new and exciting ways, which could be very rewarding. You may also command a higher salary.
Bottom Line
A master's degree in secondary education may be just what you need to take your education career to the next level. If you plan to continue working in the classroom with students, you'll have more tools and resources to help them develop their strengths. But if you'd like to take on behind-the-scenes instructional coordinator or administrative roles, you'll have the skills you need to move ahead. No matter which career path you choose, you're likely to earn higher salaries for these mid- and high-level positions.
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By OnlineU Staff Writers | 11/1/2023