Tennessee teachers and aspiring educators have more options than ever to advance their careers through online Master of Education (MEd) programs. Whether you want to move into administration, earn a specialist endorsement, or deepen your teaching practice, this guide will help you compare Tennessee-based online MEd programs that fit your goals, schedule, and experience level.
Author: Michael Hoffman, JD, MA
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 - Top Fields of Study in TN
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 Tennessee
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Program Breakdown: Popular Online MEd Programs in Tennessee
Below are three accredited Tennessee universities offering respected online or hybrid MEd programs. Each overview highlights format, flexibility, cost, and admissions requirements to help you compare options.
University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK)
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville offers several online graduate education programs through Vols Online, including an online Master’s in Teacher Education with two tracks:
- Practitioner concentration (initial teacher licensure)
- Educational studies concentration (experienced educators)
All coursework is 100% online with no campus visits required. The program is flexible, offers multiple start terms, and does not require the GRE.
Duration: 30-38 credits | 2 years
Mode: Fully online
Cost: $744 per credit (in-state)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree with minimum 2.7 GPA
- Official transcripts
- Letter(s) of recommendation
Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)
Middle Tennessee State University offers several online MEd programs for working teachers, including specializations in curriculum and instruction, literacy, and educational leadership.
Courses are asynchronous, allowing students to continue teaching while enrolled. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, often through projects completed in your own classroom. GRE scores are typically not required.
Duration: 33-36 credits | 2+ years (part-time) or 18 months (full-time)
Mode: Fully online
Cost: $650 per credit (in-state)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (education or related field preferred)
- Minimum 2.75–3.0 GPA
- Valid teaching license (for most tracks)
- Official transcripts
- Professional references
University of Memphis (UofM Global)
The University of Memphis offers online MS in Education programs through UofM Global, including the MS in School Administration and Supervision.
This 30-credit program prepares K–12 educators for principal and administrative roles in Tennessee. Courses are fully online and asynchronous, covering leadership, school law, finance, and curriculum innovation.
Duration: 30 credits |12-18 months
Mode: Fully online
Cost: $603 per credit (in-state)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (education or related field)
- Valid teaching license and teaching experience
- Statement of purpose and teaching philosophy
- Resume
- Three recommendation letters
- Official transcripts
Top Fields of Study for Tennessee MEd Graduates
Tennessee offers strong demand for MEd graduates across several high-impact education fields. Below are five of the most popular options based on job outlook, salary potential, and statewide needs.
Educational Leadership & Administration
Educational leadership is one of the most common paths for MEd graduates in Tennessee.
- Roles: Principal, assistant principal, instructional leader
- Average salary: ~$77,000 per year
- Why it’s in demand: Retirements and district growth
MEd programs in this field prepare educators for the Tennessee Instructional Leader licensure exam, required for principal positions.
Curriculum & Instruction
Curriculum and Instruction (C&I) aligns with Tennessee’s push to raise academic achievement statewide.
- Roles: Instructional coach, curriculum specialist, coordinator
- Projected job growth: 13.4% in Tennessee
- Median salary: ~$56,750
Graduates often lead professional development and oversee curriculum alignment with state standards.
Special Education
Special education remains a critical-need area across Tennessee.
- Roles: Lead special education teacher, interventionist, district coordinator
- Why it matters: Increased focus on inclusive education and IDEA compliance
An MEd in Special Education provides advanced training in evidence-based interventions and may lead to higher pay or stipends.
Reading & Literacy Education
Literacy improvement is a major priority in Tennessee.
- Roles: Reading specialist, literacy coach, interventionist
- State initiatives: Literacy Success Act and early reading reforms
MEd graduates in literacy often move into coaching or curriculum leadership roles.
English as a Second Language (ESL/ELL)
Tennessee’s growing English Learner population has increased demand for ESL-trained educators.
- Roles: ESL specialist, EL coordinator, instructional coach
- Degree options: ESL, ELL, or TESOL concentrations
Graduates may also support statewide initiatives or teacher training in culturally responsive instruction.
Accreditation for Tennessee Online MEd Programs
Accreditation is essential when choosing an online MEd program.
- Tennessee universities are regionally accredited by SACSCOC
- Most colleges of education also hold CAEP accreditation
- Programs leading to licensure must be approved by the Tennessee Department of Education
Always verify accreditation directly on the program’s website.
Types of Online MEd Programs in Tennessee
Online MEd programs in Tennessee are offered in several formats to fit different schedules and career goals.
Full-Time Programs
Full-time online MEd programs are designed for students who want to complete their degree quickly, typically by taking a near-full course load each term. In a full-time program, you might take three or more courses per semester (or enroll year-round) and finish in about 12 to 18 months.
You’ll earn your MEd faster, which means you can potentially start enjoying any salary increase or new job role sooner. The workload is significant – roughly 30-40 hours of coursework/study per week – which can be challenging if you’re also teaching or working.
Examples:
- UT Martin – MSEd in Higher Education Leadership
- Trevecca Nazarene University – MEd in Curriculum and Instruction (K-12)
Part-Time Programs
Part-time online MEd programs are a popular choice for Tennessee educators who plan to continue working while in school. In a part-time program, you might take one or two courses per semester, including summers, and finish in about two to three years.
This format offers maximum flexibility – you can spread out the workload and better balance teaching, family, and grad school. Tennessee’s online MEd programs accommodate part-time students by asynchronous classes and flexible project deadlines.
Examples:
- Lipscomb University – MEd (Stackable Program)
- Middle Tennessee State University – MEd in Literacy
Programs with No GRE Requirement
Many Tennessee online MEd programs now waive the GRE, making admissions more accessible, admitting students based on undergraduate GPA, prior coursework, and professional experience instead of standardized test scores. The idea is that your teaching experience and academic record are better indicators of success in a graduate education program.
Keep in mind, no-GRE doesn’t mean easier admissions – you’ll want to have a solid GPA (usually 2.75 or 3.0+) and strong recommendation letters to demonstrate your capability. Nearly all the programs highlighted in this guide forego the GRE.
Examples:
- University of Tennessee, Knoxville – MS in Teacher Education
- University of Memphis – MS in School Administration
Accelerated Programs
Accelerated online MEd programs allow you to earn your degree in a shorter-than-normal timeframe by utilizing intensive course schedules. These programs might have six to eight week course modules, year-round enrollment, or higher credit loads each term so you can finish in as little as 12 months.
This can help you focus deeply on one subject at a time while still being full-time. The pace is fast, but this format is ideal if you’re motivated and perhaps have a lighter work year or can dedicate significant time for one year.
Examples:
- Union University – MEd in Instructional Leadership
- South College – MEd Teacher as Instructional Leader
How Much Do Online MEd Programs in Tennessee Cost?
Online MEd tuition in Tennessee varies by institution and residency.
- Public universities: $500–$750 per credit (in-state)
- Private universities: Often higher, but may offer educator discounts
Online study also reduces costs tied to commuting or relocation.
| School | Credits | Cost per Credit | Est. Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Tennessee, Knoxville | 30 | $744 | $22,320 |
| Tennessee State University | 33 | $575 | $18,975 |
| Lipscomb University | 30 | $715 | $21,450 |
Note: Figures are approximate for the latest academic year’s tuition. Always consult the latest tuition schedules or contact the school’s bursar for precise costs.
FAQs from Prospective Tennessee MEd Students
Do I need a teaching license to enroll in an online MEd program in Tennessee?
No, a teaching license is not always required.
Many MEd programs are designed for licensed teachers and do require a license and experience, especially leadership or endorsement tracks. However, initial licensure or job-embedded MEd programs allow non-licensed students to earn certification as part of the degree.
Can I work full-time as a teacher while pursuing my online MEd?
Yes, most online MEd students in Tennessee work full-time. Programs are built for working professionals, with asynchronous courses and flexible pacing. Many students choose part-time enrollment to balance teaching, coursework, and personal commitments.
Are online MEd degrees respected by Tennessee school districts?
Yes, accredited online MEd degrees are fully respected. School districts focus on accreditation, licensure, and endorsements — not delivery format. Online programs use the same curriculum and faculty as on-campus programs, and many administrators earned their degrees online.
What financial aid or scholarships are available?
Several funding options are available for online MEd students. These include federal financial aid through FAFSA, TEACH Grants for students in high-need areas, district tuition reimbursement, and education-specific scholarships or educator discounts.
Do Tennessee online MEd programs require the GRE?
Many Tennessee online MEd programs do not require the GRE. Admissions committees often rely on GPA, experience, and recommendations instead. Some programs list the GRE as optional, but it is increasingly uncommon.