Online Master's in Education: Comparing Top California Schools

Spotlighting California’s Online Education Master’s Programs

The Five Top Fields of Study for California MEd Grads

Earning an MEd can prepare you for leadership roles in various high-demand education fields. Below are five top specializations for education master’s students in California, chosen for their strong job outlook, return on investment (ROI), and relevance to the state’s education needs.

Special Education

California faces persistent shortages of qualified special education teachers, making this a high-demand MEd specialization. Special education professionals are needed to support students with disabilities across the state’s K-12 schools.

An MEd in Special Education provides advanced skills in differentiated instruction, assessment, and inclusive practices. The ROI is strong, as special education teachers in California earn about $82,000 at the elementary level and up to $99,000 at the high school level on average. 

Beyond salary, graduates impact an underserved student population, and districts frequently offer stipends or tuition reimbursement to attract and retain special educators. With an MEd, teachers can also move into specialist or leadership roles, such as program coordinator or district-level special education director, further increasing their career growth and earning potential.

Educational Leadership

Educational leadership includes roles like school principals, vice-principals, and district administrators. This field of study is a natural path for experienced teachers in California looking to increase their impact and salary. An MEd focused on educational leadership or administration trains educators in management, school law, finance, and instructional leadership and often includes preparation for a California Administrative Services Credential.

California’s large public school systems continually need effective leaders, especially as veteran administrators retire. The payoff can be significant: Principals in California earn a median of about $115,291. 

Programs in this field emphasize ROI through improved school outcomes and higher earnings for graduates. Many California districts incentivize administrators with competitive salaries and benefits, knowing that strong leadership is key to addressing achievement gaps and implementing state education initiatives. 

Curriculum and Instruction

With evolving state standards and diverse student needs, expertise in curriculum and instruction is highly valued in California. MEd programs in curriculum and instruction train teachers to become instructional coordinators, curriculum specialists, or coaching teachers who develop and implement effective teaching strategies.

California’s school system serves a vast and varied student population. It relies on instruction experts to improve lesson quality and student outcomes, making demand strong both at the school and district levels. The ROI is compelling as well. California instructional coordinators earn an average salary of $62,481. 

An MEd in this field also provides versatility; graduates can lead professional development, design district-wide curricula, or consult on educational programs. In a state with numerous school districts and continuous initiatives to raise achievement, especially in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and bilingual education, specialists with advanced curriculum training can have a far-reaching impact.

Reading & Literacy (Including Bilingual Education)

California’s focus on early literacy makes reading and literacy a worthwhile field of study for the state’s education master’s students. The state has a growing need for reading specialists and literacy coaches to support students who struggle with reading, as well as English as a second language (ESL) students. 

Graduates often pursue roles as reading interventionists, literacy coaches, or district literacy coordinators. The career outlook is strong, as not only are these positions in demand per state initiatives, but they are also rewarding financially. 

Many reading specialists are experienced teachers who receive stipends or move up the salary scale for the master’s and specialist credentials. Some may also work as instructional coordinators or bilingual literacy specialists, roles that offer a solid ROI. 

Educational Technology

Educational technology is booming in California, a state at the forefront of both tech innovation and online learning adoption. An MEd in Educational Technology (or learning design and technology) prepares graduates to integrate technology into curricula, develop digital learning materials, and serve as technology coaches or instructional designers. 

The COVID-19 era accelerated the use of technology in schools. Today, districts need experts to help teachers utilize digital tools effectively and equitably. Beyond K-12, education technology specialists can work in higher education, corporate training, or the booming tech industry centered in California. In fact, instructional designers are needed in every industry, so MEd graduates often find roles not just in schools but also in designing e-learning for companies, non-profits, and the government.

California Online MEd Programs: The How and Why of Accreditation

When evaluating online MEd programs in California, accreditation is crucial. Accreditation is a quality assurance process indicating that a school or program meets established standards. 

Regional accreditation is the gold standard. It matters because it ensures you can transfer credits, qualify for financial aid, and earn a degree respected by employers and state licensing boards. Universities with regional accreditation undergo rigorous evaluation, and their degrees are widely recognized. For example, the University of San Diego’s MEd is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). 

In addition to institutional accreditation, look for programmatic accreditation specific to educator preparation. Many California universities hold accreditation from bodies like the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) for their education programs, signaling they meet national standards for training teachers and administrators. Programs that lead to state teaching or counseling credentials should also be approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).

Investigating the Types of Online MEd Programs in California

Online MEd programs in California come in various formats to suit different needs. Whether you want to accelerate your studies or balance school with work and family, you can find a program structure that fits. 

Common types include full-time programs, part-time programs, programs that waive the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) requirement, and accelerated tracks. Below, we detail each type and what to expect, along with examples of online California programs.

Full-Time Programs

Full-time online MEd programs allow you to complete your degree quickly, typically in about 12 to 18 months of intensive study. Students in full-time tracks take a full course load each term, which is typically three to four courses per semester. 

In the study format, you can finish your online degree in as little as one year and enter the job market sooner. Full-time study also lets you immerse yourself deeply in coursework, which can be beneficial for learning. 

However, the workload is significant; juggling a full-time MEd while working full-time can be challenging. Many students in full-time online programs either take a break from full-time employment or reduce their work hours to manage the time commitment.

Examples of Full-Time Online MEd Programs in CA:

• USC Rossier — MEd in Postsecondary Administration and Student Affairs
• University of San Diego — MEd
  

Part-Time Programs

Part-time online MEd programs are designed for working professionals, especially teachers who want to continue teaching while going to school. These programs spread out coursework over a longer period (often two to three years) with a lighter course load each term (usually one to two courses at a time). 

The big benefit to part-time study is the flexibility. You can apply what you learn in real-time in your classroom or job, and you’re less likely to be overwhelmed by too many assignments at once. Part-time programs in California often use asynchronous classes or convenient evening sessions, allowing you to fit studying into your schedule. 

The trade-off is that you might take two years or more to earn your degree. For many, this is worthwhile because it lets them maintain a full-time income and personal commitments. 

Examples of Part-Time Online Education Master’s in CA:

• San Diego State University — Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
• National University — MEd in Inspired Teaching and Learning
  

Programs with No GRE Requirement

Many online MEd programs in California do not require the GRE for admission, which lowers barriers for busy professionals. “No-GRE” programs evaluate applicants on undergraduate GPA, work experience, recommendations, and personal statements instead of standardized test scores. 

This is ideal for those who feel a test score wouldn’t reflect their abilities or simply want to avoid the cost and stress of the GRE. In fact, some top schools deliberately waive the GRE to encourage a wider pool of applicants. USC Rossier, for example, neither requires nor accepts GRE scores for its education programs.

Choosing a no-GRE program means you can focus on compiling your professional experience and goals in your application. Keep in mind that “no GRE” doesn’t mean less competitive; admissions committees still rigorously review your academic history and qualifications.

Examples of No-GRE Online Master’s Programs in CA:

• USC Rossier School of Education — MEd in Postsecondary Administration & Student Affairs Programs
• California State University, Fullerton — Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology
  

Accelerated Programs

Accelerated online MEd programs are structured to let you earn your degree faster than the typical timeline by compressing coursework or offering year-round classes. These programs are an excellent choice if you’re motivated to advance quickly or have a specific deadline in mind. 

Accelerated formats can take as little as 12 months by using short terms, often five to eight weeks per course, or double course loads. Some are full-time programs in disguise. Essentially, you’ll be studying on an intensive full-time schedule. 

The advantages are clear: You graduate sooner and often save on living costs by finishing early. Many also find that staying continuously engaged helps them retain information and maintain momentum. However, accelerated programs are intense, and effective time management is critical to success. 

Examples of Accelerated Online Master’s Programs in CA:

• California Baptist University — MS in Education
• USC Rossier — MEd in Postsecondary Administration and Student Affairs

What is the Price of an Online MEd Program in California?

The cost of an online MEd in California can vary widely depending on the type of school and program format. Tuition differences between public and private institutions are significant. 

At the lower end, in-state tuition for California public universities makes many online MEd programs quite affordable, often amounting to under $20,000 total. In contrast, private universities like USC or Stanford charge higher rates. A 30-unit online MEd at USC can cost over $70,000 in tuition alone. 

Online students usually pay the same tuition as on-campus students, though you might save on fees like campus parking, and you won’t have relocation costs. California residents benefit from state-subsidized tuition at public schools, whereas out-of-state students may pay extra or look to private options. 

The table below shows a breakdown of the costs of three different online education master’s programs in California:

Common Questions from California MEd Students

Q: Are online MEd degrees respected by employers and school districts in California?

A: An online MEd from an accredited California school is valued the same as an on-campus degree. Online education degrees cover the same curriculum and rigor as traditional programs. Indeed, many California universities with top-ranked education programs offer their degrees online, and your diploma typically won’t distinguish that it was earned online. 

California school districts care more about the accreditation and reputation of the institution. If you earn your MEd from a credible, regionally accredited university, employers will likely recognize it. Networking, field experiences, and certification also help demonstrate the quality of your degree. 

Q: Will an online MEd program lead to a teaching or administrative credential in California?

A: Earning an online MEd won’t automatically qualify you for a credential. An MEd is an academic degree, while a teaching or administrative credential is a license. Some programs integrate credential preparation into their curricula, but it varies. 

If you are not yet a licensed teacher, look for programs specifically designed for initial licensure. A standard MEd program often assumes you already have a teaching credential and is focused on advanced topics, not basic licensure. For administration, an MEd in Educational Administration or similar may include the coursework for a Preliminary Administrative Services Credential, but you’ll typically need to pass exams and apply to the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) for the credential separately. 

Q: How long does it take to finish an online MEd program in California?

A: Program length can range from about one year to three years, depending on the format and whether you study full-time or part-time. Full-time online MEd programs can be completed in as little as 12 months, which usually involves taking an intensive load of courses each term (including summer). Many working professionals opt for part-time enrollment, which might take around two years to finish. 

California’s universities often offer flexibility. You might speed up or slow down by taking more or fewer courses per term. An accelerated one-year schedule will be quite intense, whereas a three-year schedule might mean just one course at a time. 

When planning, consider your personal and work commitments. If you can handle full-time study, you’ll graduate sooner, but if you need to juggle responsibilities, a longer schedule can prevent school burnout. 

Q: What can I do with an MEd in California? Will it increase my salary or career opportunities?

A: An MEd can open many doors in California’s education sector and often comes with a salary increase. In California’s public schools, a teacher with a master’s earns more than a teacher with a bachelor’s. Given that California already has high teacher pay, this bump can be significant over the course of a career. 

In terms of new roles, an MEd is usually required (or at least strongly preferred) for positions like instructional coach, department head, curriculum specialist, assistant principal, or principal. With an MEd in Educational Administration, for example, you can pursue becoming a school administrator, and principals in California often earn six-figure salaries.

Q: Do I need to have teaching experience to apply for an online MEd program?

A: It depends on the program. Many online MEd programs prefer or require applicants to have some teaching experience, especially those geared toward current educators. The USD online MEd, for example, expects a minimum of two years of teaching experience. The reasoning is that coursework often asks you to apply theory to real educational settings, and having experience enriches your learning. 

However, not all programs have this requirement. Some specializations, such as higher education administration, education policy, or instructional design, welcome applicants from other backgrounds, even if you haven’t been a K-12 teacher. USC Rossier’s programs note that students come from diverse academic and professional backgrounds.

In California, you’ll find online MEd paths both for seasoned educators and for those new to the field. These “career changer” programs are sometimes labeled as “MEd for aspiring teachers.” If you lack formal teaching experience, you’ll want to highlight other experiences, such as tutoring, training, volunteering in schools, or leadership roles, in your application.