Pennsylvania’s education landscape offers big opportunities for advancing your career. The state employs over 123,000 K–12 teachers, yet critical shortages persist in areas like special education and math. Online and hybrid MEd programs in Pennsylvania offer flexible, accredited paths to higher pay and leadership roles. Learn how earning your degree online can help you grow on your terms with this guide.
Author: Christopher Murray
Expertise: Online LearningStudent SuccessGraduate Ed.Editor: Jordan Cosselman
- Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
Read more - Top Fields of Study in PA
The most promising fields in the state, based on job outlook, earning potential, affordability, and local opportunities…
Read more - Accreditation
What accreditation is, why it matters, and the accrediting bodies relevant for students in this state…
Read more - Program Types
The variety of online master’s programs offered in the state, from full-time and part-time to accelerated formats…
Read more - Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
Read more - FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
Read more - Top Schools
Top Master’s in Education Online Programs in Pennsylvania
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Inside Three Popular Online MEd Programs in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is home to accredited universities offering online and hybrid MEd degrees. Below, we spotlight three top programs – each with a unique focus – to illustrate the online learning experience. For each school, we highlight one specific MEd degree, its format, duration, cost, and what it takes to get in.
Penn State World Campus
Penn State’s online MEd in Curriculum & Instruction offers a flexible, customizable option for current educators seeking to deepen their instructional expertise. Courses are fully online and largely asynchronous, taught by the same faculty who teach on campus. Students can tailor electives to areas such as STEM, literacy, or instructional leadership and may earn a graduate certificate along the way.
The program is designed with working teachers in mind, making it possible to balance coursework with professional responsibilities.
Duration: 30 credits | 1–3 years
Format: 100% online
Cost: $1,027 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution (3.0+ GPA in junior/senior years)
- Official transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation
- Resume
- Statement of purpose
Drexel University
Drexel’s online MS in Special Education prepares educators to support students with diverse learning needs through an interactive and applied curriculum. This 48-credit program follows a quarter schedule, allowing students to complete the degree in about two years full-time or over a longer period part time.
Coursework combines asynchronous learning with occasional live discussions, and required field experiences ensure practical application. Students may pursue concentrations such as autism spectrum disorders or add an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) certification. Drexel also offers tuition discounts for educators, military members, and partner organizations.
Duration: 48 credits | ~21 months (full-time) or 3+ years (part-time)
Format: 100% online
Cost: $1,111 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution (3.0+ GPA)
- Completed online application
- Official transcripts
- Two professional recommendation letters
- Resume
- Personal essay
West Chester University
West Chester University’s online MEd in Early Childhood Education is designed for professionals working with children from birth through grade four. The cohort-based program admits students each fall and uses accelerated seven-week courses that blend asynchronous work with live evening sessions.
Students focus on child development, curriculum design, and family engagement. While the program does not lead to initial teaching certification, it is well suited for educators and early childhood professionals seeking advanced knowledge and leadership skills.
Duration: 1.5–2 years
Format: 100% online
Cost: $516 per credit (in-state)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (3.0+ GPA)
- At least 1 year of professional experience with children ages 0–8
- Two letters of recommendation (one academic, one professional)
- Resume
- Written statement
- Interview (if requested)
Top Fields of Study for MEd Graduates in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s education needs span many specialties, but several fields consistently stand out for job demand, advancement opportunities, and long-term impact.
1. Special Education
Special education remains a critical shortage area in Pennsylvania, offering strong job security and access to incentives such as TEACH Grants. Salaries typically range from $60,000–$65,000, with higher earnings for educators holding a master’s degree.
An online MEd in Special Education can lead to roles such as intervention specialist or special education coordinator.
2. STEM Education
Math and science educators are in high demand across both rural and urban districts. An MEd in STEM education, including science and math, can deepen subject expertise and support advancement into roles such as department head, instructional coach, or curriculum specialist.
3. Educational Leadership & Administration
For educators pursuing roles such as principal or district administrator, an online MEd in Educational Leadership is often required. In Pennsylvania, principals commonly earn $100,000–$120,000 annually. With many administrators nearing retirement, leadership openings are expected to continue.
4. Reading & Literacy
Low reading proficiency rates have increased demand for reading specialists and literacy coaches. Just one in three fourth graders in Pennsylvania can read at a proficient level. An online MEd in Reading or Literacy prepares educators to support struggling readers and lead literacy initiatives, often with accompanying salary increases.
5. ESL & Bilingual Education
As Pennsylvania’s population of English language learners grows, ESL-certified educators are increasingly sought after. An MEd in TESOL or bilingual education can lead to classroom roles as well as program coordination and district-level leadership opportunities.
Accreditation for Pennsylvania Online MEd Programs
Accreditation ensures your degree meets academic standards and is recognized by employers and licensing bodies. Pennsylvania universities are regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Many education programs also hold CAEP accreditation, signaling adherence to national standards for educator preparation.
Types of Online MEd Programs in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers online MEd programs in a variety of formats, including full-time, part-time, accelerated, and no-GRE options.
Full-Time Programs
Full-time online MEd programs are ideal if you want to earn your degree as quickly as possible. Full-time typically means taking a heavier course load each term to finish in about one year to 18 months. Expect an intensive schedule – you’ll be devoting many hours a week to classes, readings, and assignments, much like a full-time job.
Many students who go full-time take a break from teaching or reduce work hours to focus on studies.
Examples in PA:
- Penn State World Campus – Curriculum and Instruction Master of Education
- Drexel University – MS in Special Education
Part-Time Programs
Part-time online MEd programs are a popular choice for working educators and busy professionals. “Part-time” usually means taking one or two courses at a time, so you can continue teaching full-time and apply what you learn in real time.
These programs emphasize flexibility – coursework can be done evenings and weekends, and timelines are adaptable. Most part-time MEd students finish in about two to three years, but many programs allow up to five or six years to complete the degree if needed.
Examples in PA:
- Temple University’s – Special Education MEd
- Penn State World Campus – Curriculum and Instruction Master of Education
Programs with No GRE Requirement
Many online MEd programs in PA are “no GRE”, meaning instead of test scores, admissions committees focus on your academic record and professional experience. This trend is a win for busy educators – it removes a hurdle and speeds up the application process.
Schools have found that undergraduate GPA, letters of recommendation, and personal statements are better indicators of success than a generalized test.
Examples in PA:
- Penn State World Campus – Curriculum and Instruction Master of Education
- Drexel University – MS in Special Education
- Temple – MEd
Accelerated Programs
If you’re eager to earn your master’s as soon as possible, look into accelerated online MEd programs. Accelerated can mean shorter course modules (5-8 weeks) so that you complete courses more quickly than the standard 15-week semester or year-round continuous enrollment (including summer) to compress the timeline.
The result? You might finish in 12 to 15 months, instead of two years.
Examples in PA:
- West Chester University – Early Childhood MEd
- Elizabethtown College – Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
How Much Do Online MEd Programs in Pennsylvania Cost?
Online MEd tuition in Pennsylvania generally ranges from about $500 per credit at public universities (in-state) to $1,100+ per credit at private institutions. Additional fees may apply, so reviewing total program costs is essential.
| School / Program | Credits | Cost per Credit | Est. Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penn State World Campus – MEd Curriculum & Instruction | 30 | $1,027 | $30,810 |
| West Chester Univ. – MEd Special Education (Online) | 33 | $516 | $17,030 |
| Drexel University – M.S. Special Education (Online) | 48 | $1,111 | $53,330 |
Note: Tuition figures are for the latest academic year. Cost per credit typically does not include university fees. Always check the latest rates and any available discounts.
FAQs from Prospective Pennsylvania MEd Students
Can I earn my teaching certification through an online MEd program in PA?
Yes, some online MEd programs in Pennsylvania are designed to include initial teacher certification, while others are for already-certified teachers. If you’re not yet certified, look for programs labeled “Certification Track” or “PreK-4 certification.” Similarly, some universities have “accelerated teacher residency” MEd programs that grant certification.
Keep in mind you’ll need to complete field experiences and student teaching in person (often arranged at a school near you) to meet PA Department of Education requirements. Always verify that the program is approved by PDE for certification.
Will an online MEd degree from a Pennsylvania university be respected by employers?
School districts care about the reputation and accreditation of your university, not the delivery format of your degree. The vast majority of PA universities make no distinction on the diploma or transcript that your degree was earned online.
Pennsylvania’s online MEd programs are usually taught by the same faculty who teach in-person, and they’re accredited by bodies like CAEP and MSCHE just like traditional programs. As long as your degree is from a properly accredited school, you can confidently state your MEd when applying for jobs or salary increases.
How long does it take to finish an online MEd if I’m working full-time?
The timeline can be pretty flexible. Most working educators in online MEd programs take a part-time course load. Typically, that means finishing in about two to three years. If you take summers off, it could be a bit longer; if you take courses year-round, perhaps a bit shorter. If you’re working full-time, a common approach is six credits per semester.
If you’re concerned about juggling responsibilities, talk to the program advisors – they can often help you map out a plan.
What financial aid or scholarships are available for MEd students in Pennsylvania?
You’ll be glad to hear there are several financial aid avenues. First, as a graduate student you can qualify for federal financial aid – mainly student loans (Stafford or Grad PLUS loans). Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for any need-based aid.
Second, if you teach in a high-need subject or school, look into the TEACH Grant: this federal program provides up to $4,000 per year for grad students who commit to teaching in shortage areas like special ed, math, science, bilingual ed, etc., in a low-income school. And don’t forget employer benefits – a number of PA school districts provide partial tuition reimbursement for teachers pursuing a master’s.
Do I need a bachelor’s in education to apply for an MEd program?
Not necessarily. Many MEd programs welcome students from various academic backgrounds, especially if the program is aimed at initial teacher certification or bringing new perspectives into education. In Pennsylvania, requirements vary by program: some advanced tracks (like an MEd in Educational Leadership) assume you’re already a certified teacher, but others are open to anyone with a bachelor’s degree.
If you lack an education background, be prepared to take some prerequisite courses or content exams, depending on the program’s design. Always check the admissions criteria: terms like “instructional I certification required” signal that you must already hold a teaching certificate.