Online Education Degrees

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Online Education Degree

An online education degree may provide useful skills and knowledge for a wide range of jobs. To become a teacher, principal, lesson planner and more. If you need flexibility, online schools offer education degrees at all levels.

An education degree looks at areas related to teaching and learning. It often discusses how to manage a classroom, convey a topic and plan lessons. It then applies these concepts to a group of students, policy or content area. Online education degrees are available at all levels. From bachelors to masters and PhD. There are different rules in each state with regard to teaching licenses. But one of these degrees may be helpful if you are trying to get certified or have a certain career path in mind.

Some degrees in this field may ready you to become a teacher, principal, or content specialist. But there are many ways to tailor a degree in education to other goals. You may want to gain teaching skills to address a certain group. Like special needs children, or Pre K to grade 12. Or, pursue a focus in a certain theme. Like policy research, educational technology or math.

Bachelor’s Degree in Education

A bachelor’s degree in education is an entry level degree. Each state is different but may help one gain the skills to become a licensed teacher. If you take this route, there are many content areas, grade levels and student groups to be aware of. Most online bachelor’s programs fuse many elements. Theory, current research, courses and training in a chosen field. They often entail from 120 to 180 credits.

Many online schools also offer bachelor’s completion programs which need fewer credits. These may take a full time student about two to three years to complete. Fuller programs may take four years. In core topics, you will look at how to manage a classroom as well as methods to teach and plan lessons. Some programs also discuss current laws, human growth and state standards. It is common to also build insight on how to work with parents and administrators.

To enroll in a bachelor’s program, you need a high school diploma or GED. But other admission standards may also vary. Each school may want you to have a GPA within a certain range and good ACT or SAT scores. Along with this, you may need a passing score on a basic skills test like the Praxis Assessments. The other variable is the cost of tuition. At last check, the average cost of an education degree from an in state school is $6,519. For an out of state school, this cost is $28,524. This means you may find online schools that either cost less or more than those.

Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education (ECE)

Online bachelor’s in early childhood education (ECE) programs focus on ages Pre K to grade three. They usually cover basic skills in teaching and assistant teaching. You may study material that relates to teaching language, motor and social skills. This often means knowing about child growth and how they develop. Also, how to plan meaningful lessons for young minds.

Bachelor’s in Elementary Education

These online bachelor’s programs cover basic teaching skills and practicum. They may ready you to become an elementary school teacher. Elementary school often runs from kindergarten to grade eight. You are likely to study tactics for how to teach subjects in an elementary class. Children’s literature, art, science and basic math are a few. Testing students and keeping track of their progress is also a part of these programs.

Bachelor’s in Secondary Education

These online bachelor’s programs often discuss teaching a certain subject. Usually for grades five through twelve. As such, they will often ready you to teach that content (E.g. math, English, science) in middle and high schools. Apart from learning a content area in depth, you may learn classroom skills. How to manage a group of students, as well as how to engage and motivate them. There is usually some discussion of inclusion and psychology as well.

Bachelor’s in Special Education

Online bachelor’s in special ed may ready one to pursue K to 12 licensing. Yet the courses focus on serving students who have diverse learning needs. Often, the program will help one identify and understand disability traits and issues. You may learn how to adapt a study plan, assess progress and weave tech into lessons.

Master’s Degree in Education

A master’s in education is a grad degree. In some states, teachers need a master’s degree to pursue a first or second license. To apply to an online master’s program you need to have a bachelor’s degree. Some programs may also ask that you to have a teaching license. GPA, GRE or other scores, and an essay might be some of the other required material.

There are programs for those who do not have a teaching cert but have a bachelor’s degree. These may cater to those who are trying to switch their career and looking for their first certificate. What are the different master’s degrees in education? There are several master’s programs to explore: MEd, MAT, MA, MS. Each requires a distinct course load and length of time to complete.

Master of Education (MEd)

An online MEd program is often for the licensed practitioner. It may include some field based experience along with courses. There is a strong focus on theory and how to apply it to your area of service. You will often study proven tactics and how people learn both in general and in your focal area. The courses in a MEd are broad and may cover literacy, school reform and policy. But they go deep too, and you can usually choose an anchor point. Three majors in this field are leadership, special ed and curriculum or instruction.

Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)

An online Master of Arts in Teaching is a teacher prep program. Usually, it offers hands on teaching practice for those who want to work with students in a class. Most online MAT programs focus on advanced courses in a set subject to help hone skills. They may also touch on teaching style or approach. There is a supervised practice where you teach what you are learning as well. In some schools, a MAT requires 30 credits and is a “5th year program”. Students earn a bachelor’s degree and a master to pursue a license so they they can teach in their state.

Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MS) in Education

Online MA and MS programs often cover teaching methods for one content area. History, English, math, science or the subject one wants to teach. Both of these programs may be useful for both licensed and non licensed educators. For the most part, the MS has a stronger research side while an MA focuses on theory and practice. Many programs are for teachers with a license seeking a second one.

Course work in MA and MS programs focus on mastery of teaching and learning theories. You may study how to manage a classroom, assess students through tests, and plan lessons. One may also need to conduct some research in the chosen content area and produce a thesis. A question some people have is whether an MEd is equal to an MA in education. They are both grad degrees. But the MA is an academic program while the MEd is a professional one.

Types of Online Master’s in Education Degree Programs

There are many main focal points for master’s programs. Usually, you choose a path (MEd, MA/MS or MAT) and a major to tailor the degree to your interests. There are license and non license programs as well. As a master’s student, you may want to continue or start to teach in the same area as your bachelor’s degree. For instance, there are masters programs in:

• Elementary Education
• Secondary Education
• Specific content areas (math, science, English, music etc.)
• Special Education

There are also many areas to think about that may help you refine your niche. Here are a few ways that you can tailor a master’s degree to your interests.

Masters in Reading and Literacy

This online master’s programs focus is on helping students learn to read and write. They often stress key methods of observing a student as each person will learn at their own pace. Many of these programs also feature a class in human growth. This may help to understand learning patterns and challenges. Language acquisition and data backed testing methods are other staple subjects.

Masters in Curriculum and Instruction

These master’s programs discuss the how and what aspect of teaching. They often include a lot of theory and research into ways of teaching a certain subject. One may also learn how to design and put into practice a lesson plan that lines up with classroom goals. Many programs also touch on policy issues in education and school standards. Some schools may offer a choice of focus. Elementary or Secondary lesson design and instructional tactics are some examples.

Masters in ESL, TESOL, ESOL

Online masters in TESL are about Teaching English as a Second Language. They often help one to gain knowledge in how people learn a first and second language. Plus, what tactics to use as a teacher of these students. Teachers in these programs often explore concepts of syntax and grammar. Besides mastery of English, one may also learn how to explain complex concepts.

Masters in Education Administration

These online Master’s degree programs are about leadership. They can help current teachers pursue a license as a principal. Many course plans give instruction on how to manage people and resources. They may also discuss ways to connect with parents, students and the community. You may also learn the finer points of setting a tone for disciplinary action. Or, how to navigate local school board policy and student outcomes.

Masters in Higher Education

Online Master’s degree programs in higher education focus on the admin side of things. They often build key insights and leadership skills related to colleges. While refining your skills in management, you may also study admissions and student affairs. Recruitment and retention is another main area of study. But you may also find programs that deal more with teaching than admin stuff. 

How long does it take to earn a master’s in education?

In short, it depends on your prior education and whether you already have a license to teach. Also, whether you study full or part time. Most masters students need from one to three years to earn their degree online.

PhD in Education

A PhD in Education is the highest award and a research based degree. It is the choice of many students who want to remain in academia. Many online PhD programs require some campus presence. You may work with a mentor to develop your research and/or teaching skills. In fact, you may spend a good part of your program practice teaching at the college level.

To apply to a PhD program, you need to furnish transcripts. Some programs may expect you to have a master’s thesis under your belt. A CV/Resume, statement of goals and GRE scores may be required too. The main goal of a PhD in education is to contribute new insight to the field. Students may build thought leadership around scientific, or theoretical issues. There are many ways to anchor one’s research and many online schools offer a menu of choices. Here are a few of those:

• Curriculum, Instruction, Assessment, Evaluation
• Early Childhood Leadership
• Educational Technology and Design
• ECE
• Higher Education Leadership
• Educational Policy, Leadership and Management
• Special Education
• Science, Mathematics and Educational Technology
• Educational Psychology

Students who enroll full time may expect to finish their PhD within four or five years. But some online schools have faster paced formats. Factors that can impact time to complete your program include course load and the research process.

PhD in Education vs EdD

Both the PhD and Doctor of Education (EdD) are the highest awards in education. But each has a unique goal that may or may not appeal to you. A PhD is a research degree. It often appeals to teachers who want to remain in the classroom. The goal of a PhD is to enhance the education system as a whole. PhD students approach this goal by doing research and through analytic methods. They apply these methods to write and present a final dissertation. In it, they discuss their findings which often get published and shared with peers.

An EdD is a practical degree. It often appeals to those that are mid way in their career and who want to conduct action research. Many pursue the EdD path to solve problems in the educational system. Their interests may be to refine strategic thinking and leadership. As a result, they may be less focused on having their work published than PhD students. And more on making better policies and decisions.

How much does it cost to earn a masters or PhD in education?

The average cost of a grad degree from a public college is $11,617. This means you will be able to find online grad programs both easier to afford and more expensive than this amount.

What can I do with an Online Education Degree?

An education degree may ready you to pursue a wide range of jobs in and out of the classroom. Education majors teach, manage schools, effect policy, research, plan curricula and more. Here are ten popular jobs for education majors.

1. Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers

Kindergarten and elementary school teachers instruct young minds. They are often the ones who instruct basic subjects like math, reading and writing. For the most, one needs a bachelor’s degree and state license. But some states need teachers to earn a master’s degree. This after getting their teaching cert and a job.

2. Elementary, Middle and High School Principals

Teachers with experience may decide to move out of the class and into a leadership role. Principals usually need a master’s degree in education leadership or education admin. Instead of teaching, you may manage staff, create budgets and set goals.

3. Middle School Teachers

Middle school teachers educate students in grades four or six through eight or nine. Some teach a certain subject, advise students or coach a sports team. Apart from a bachelor’s degree, one may also need a state license. A master’s is needed in some states too.

4. High School Teachers

High school teachers work to ready students for college. They may focus on a certain content area. Like math, science, art or music. This job requires at least a bachelor’s degree and license. In some states, high school teachers need to earn a master’s degree. This may come after you get your teaching cert and a job.

5. Career and Technical Education Teachers

Career and tech education (CTE) teachers may prepare students to pursue a vocation. They often provide training in subjects like culinary arts or auto repair. Apart from a bachelor’s degree, one may need a teaching cert or license. Plus, it is common to have first hand knowledge of what you are teaching.

6. Special Education Teachers

Special ed teachers reach people with learning, mental, emotional, or physical disabilities. They need to be able to adapt lessons and understand issues. For instance, some focus on teaching autistic learners, or a certain grade level. One may launch a career with a bachelor’s degree and state license.

7. Instructional Coordinator

These pros also have titles like School Standards Coach or Education Specialist. They may oversee teaching methods and student outcomes. Some focus on a certain grade or subject. In each area, they research to come up with ideas and make suggestions. A master’s degree is the entry level education.

8. Post secondary Teacher

These teachers instruct students beyond the high school level. As such, they must have an in depth knowledge of their content area. They may also conduct research and publish papers and books. What is required in order to become one can vary but one usually needs a PhD to pursue a faculty role. A master’s may be enough to teach at some community colleges.

9. Chief Academic Officer

A chief academic officer is a post secondary education administrator called a provost. These pros help school presidents set policy, manage budgets and make tenure decisions. As with college deans, most begin as professors, then pursue a PhD.

10. Corporate Trainer

Corporate trainers help run and plan programs that instruct employees. This might include working on training manuals and online learning modules. Or setting up systems in the work place. A bachelor’s degree might set you up to enter this field. A master’s may help you step into a manager like role.

Is a Degree in Education worth it?

An education degree may ready you to enter or advance a career in this fast growing field. The BLS projects an extra 512,900 new jobs by 2028. One reason for this is rising enrollment. It creates opportunities for teachers and other faculty members. You need a bachelor’s degree to enter many of these roles, and a grad degree to advance.

An example is high school teachers. High school teachers are in demand. There is a shortage of math, science, ESL, and special ed teachers. The demand will rise by 4% by 2028 as some of today’s teachers will retire. If you are starting to wonder whether a master’s degree in education is worth it, then check this out. One study took a look at many education jobs. It compared salaries of bachelor’s degree holders and master’s degree holders. It found that those with master’s degrees earned much more. Take a look:

• Education Administrators 44%
• Preschool and Kindergarten Teachers 43%
• Elementary and Middle School Teachers 28%
• Secondary School Teachers 24%
• Special Education Teachers 24%
• Other teachers and instructors 22%
• Postsecondary Teachers 14%

Education Degree Jobs & Salary

Occupation	Average Salary	Jobs
Elementary School Teacher	$63,930	1,430,480
High School Teacher	$62,860	1,027,230
Postsecondary Teacher	$74,630	189,270
Special Education Teacher	$59,450	40,190

Top States for Jobs as an Education Teacher, Postesecondary

State	Jobs	Annual Mean Wage
NY	5,590	$88,580
TX	4,620	$65,520
IL	4,510	$62,280
CA	3,380	$84,160
OH	3,080	$79,000

The classes you take when going for an online education degree vary by program and level. Most programs meld online courses with some form of field work. Online students might complete these locally.

Bachelors Degree Courses

Bachelor’s programs often cover ways to communicate and work with a group of students. They may touch on child hood development, teaching strategies and how to manage a classroom. A few examples are:

Graduate Degree Courses

Masters programs often cover research and how to apply it into teaching. They may also touch on ways to teach a certain topic and assess a students progress. PhD programs analyze education from the inside out. They may look at the many influences on how people learn, advocacy and policy. Then, a student may use these things to make inroads in a subject of their choice. Below are a few classes that you might also find as education majors.

How long does it take to get an Education Degree online?

Some students need four years full time to earn a bachelor’s degree in education online. But many online schools have robust transfer policies. If you are able to apply prior credits, it may reduce your time to complete the program to about two years. To earn a master’s degree online, it may take from one to three years. Some programs entail a thesis, project or period of supervised practice.  For those with a master’s, it may take from three to five years to earn a PhD in education.

15 Online Education Degrees

We have ranked our top 15 schools based on the number of graduates from the program in 2019. Our process looks at 2019 data from the NCES. And, it may help you narrow your search down.

1. Pacific Oaks College
2. West Virginia University Online
3. Purdue University Wayne
4. Liberty University
5. Aspen University
6. John’s Hopkins University
7. North Carolina University
8. University of Texas – Rio Grande Valley
9. University of Missouri
10. Slippery Rock University
11. Capella University
12. Peabody University
13. Northcentral University
14. Walden University
15. Drexel University

FIND AN ONLINE EDUCATION DEGREE

Let’s take a closer look at the online education degrees that these 15 schools have to offer.