Looking to empower adult learners while advancing your career? An online Master of Education (MEd) in Adult Education can lead to leadership roles in corporate training, higher education, and community programs. In this guide, you’ll explore top online MEd programs in adult education, learn what to expect, and see how this degree can help you make a lasting impact.
Author: Kyra Sutherland
Expertise: Graduate Ed.Online LearningStudent SuccessEditor: Jordan Cosselman
- Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
Read more - FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
Read more - Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
Read more - Career Options
What doors open after graduating with my master’s degree…
Read more - Top Schools
A list of the best schools currently offering the best online and hybrid master’s programs in the state...
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3 Reputable Online Adult Education MEd Programs
University of Arkansas — MEd in Adult and Lifelong Learning
The University of Arkansas offers an online M.Ed. in Adult and Lifelong Learning designed for professionals leading adult education and literacy programs. This non-thesis program emphasizes hands-on skills for designing, implementing, and evaluating adult learning initiatives.
Students can start in the fall, spring, or summer. Coursework covers adult learning theory, program planning, research, and leadership development. An optional Arkansas Adult Education teacher licensure track is also available.
Program Details:
- Credits: 33
- Duration: 2 years (full-time) | 3 years (part-time)
- Format: Online, asynchronous
- Cost: $446 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (3.0 GPA)
- Official transcripts
- Statement of purpose
- Resume or CV
- No GRE/MAT required
Penn State World Campus — Master of Education in Lifelong Learning and Adult Education
Penn State World Campus delivers a fully online MEd in Lifelong Learning and Adult Education, ideal for professionals in education, training, or community outreach roles.
The curriculum blends theory and practice, covering adult learning strategies, curriculum development, program planning, and assessment. The degree carries the same recognition as Penn State’s on-campus program. Students may also earn a graduate certificate in an adult education specialty, adding extra value.
Program Details:
- Credits: 30
- Duration: 2 years (part-time)
- Format: Online, asynchronous
- Cost: $1,027 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3.0 GPA)
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Short academic writing sample
- No GRE required
Indiana University — M.S.Ed. in Adult Education (Online)
Indiana University’s School of Education (Bloomington) offers an online Master of Science in Education in Adult Education through IU Online. The program balances academic depth with flexibility.
Students study adult learning theory, instructional methods, curriculum design, and program management. Graduates are well prepared for roles in colleges, corporations, nonprofits, and government agencies.
Program Details:
- Credits: 36
- Duration: 2 years (full-time) | 3 years (part-time)
- Format: Online, asynchronous
- Cost: $500.36 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (minimum 2.75 GPA)
- Official transcripts
- Personal statement
- Two recommendation letters
- GRE waived for domestic applicants
FAQs for Online Adult Education MEd Students
Q: Why is accreditation important for an online MEd in Adult Education?
A: Accreditation ensures quality and credibility. It signals to employers and institutions that your degree meets established academic standards. Graduating from an accredited school also:
- Makes you eligible for federal financial aid
- Allows credits to transfer to other graduate programs
- Ensures your degree is widely respected
Q: Does an online MEd in Adult Education lead to a teaching license or certification?
A: An MEd in Adult Education is an academic degree and typically does not lead to K–12 licensure. However, some states require licensure for adult basic education or GED instructors.
Many programs offer optional licensure tracks or coursework aligned with state requirements. In corporate or higher education settings, licensure is usually not required.
Q: How long does it take to complete an online MEd in Adult Education?
A: Most online MEd programs in Adult Education require 30-36 credits and are designed for part-time study. Typical timelines include:
- 2 years with steady part-time enrollment
- 1.5 years with accelerated or heavier course loads
- 3+ years if spacing courses out
Many universities allow up to 5-7 years to finish.
Q: What will I learn in a Master’s in Adult Education program?
A: An MEd in Adult Education combines theory and hands-on application. Common areas of study include:
- Adult learning theory and motivation
- Instructional design for adult learners
- Program planning and evaluation
- Inclusive and diverse learning environments
- Technology and e-learning for adults
Many programs include applied projects, such as designing training programs or evaluating real-world initiatives.
Q: Can I work full-time while earning my MEd in Adult Education online?
A: Yes, and in fact, most students work full-time while earning their degree. Courses are usually asynchronous so you can complete work on your own schedule. Successful students often set aside consistent weekly study blocks and communicate with employers about workload flexibility or tuition assistance.
Costs of an Online Adult Education MEd
An online MEd in Adult Education is an investment, and costs can vary widely by institution. When budgeting, consider:
- Tuition per credit
- Technology or online learning fees
- Textbooks and course materials
- Financial aid, scholarships, and employer reimbursement
Public universities often offer lower tuition, and some schools charge flat online rates regardless of residency.
| School | Credits | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penn State World Campus | 30 | $1,027 | $30,810 |
| University of Arkansas | 33 | $446 | $14,718 |
| Indiana University | 36 | $600 | $21,600 |
Note: Tuition figures above are approximate. “Cost per Credit” typically reflects base tuition and may not include minor fees, so always verify current rates with the university.
Careers with an MEd in Adult Education
Graduates are prepared for roles that combine education, training, and leadership. Many advance quickly into management positions.
Training and Development Specialist
Training and Development Specialists are the professionals who create and deliver training programs for adults in workplaces. In this role, you might design workshops, e-learning modules, or continuing education courses to help employees (or clients) build new skills.
The BLS projects employment of this role to grow 11% from 2023 to 2033 (which is much faster than the average), and the median annual salary is around $65,850. With experience, you could advance to senior instructional designer or training manager roles (often commanding higher pay).
Training and Development Manager
Training and Development Managers oversee an organization’s training department or learning initiatives. After a few years as a training specialist or educator, you could move up to a managerial role. You might head corporate universities, direct professional development at a college, or manage education programs for a nonprofit.
According to the BLS, the median pay for training and development managers is about $127,090 per year, and employment is projected to grow 6% over the next ten years.
Human Resources Manager (Training/Development Focus)
Human Resources (HR) Managers plan and coordinate an organization’s workforce strategy. In larger organizations, you might find HR manager roles specifically overseeing training programs, talent development, or organizational learning. In smaller organizations, an HR manager often wears multiple hats, one of which is ensuring staff are properly trained and have opportunities for continuous education.
As this is one of the highest-paying fields relevant to adult education, the median annual wage for HR managers is about $140,030.
Ranking the Best Online MEd in Adult Education Degrees
Choosing the right master’s program is a big decision, and our ranking of the best online MEd in Adult Education programs highlights schools that deliver exceptional value and student support. To create this list, we analyzed school data from the U.S. Department of Education, focusing on factors like affordability, academic quality and accreditation, faculty expertise, and student support services.
See which universities made the grade — and what makes each a standout choice for aspiring adult educators.