With over 3,500 unfilled teaching positions in 2023 and 15% of Missouri students reading below a basic level, the need for skilled educators is urgent. Whether you’re a new graduate, career changer, or current teacher, Missouri’s online MEd programs are designed to help you grow professionally while making a real impact. This guide highlights top programs and career paths to help you find the right fit.
Author: Brenda Barron
Expertise: TechnologyComputer ScienceGraduate 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 Missouri
A list of the best schools currently offering the best online and hybrid master’s programs in the state...
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 Missouri
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A Spotlight on Popular Online MEd Programs in Missouri
University of Missouri (Mizzou)
The University of Missouri (Mizzou) offers several online MEd programs through Missouri Online, combining research-backed coursework with flexible delivery. Its College of Education is nationally respected, and programs are accredited and approved by the Missouri Department of Education.
Courses are primarily asynchronous, making them ideal for working teachers. Students can choose from specializations like educational leadership, literacy, and curriculum design.
Featured Program: MEd in Educational Leadership (Elementary & Secondary Principal Certification)
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode: 100% online
- Cost: $561.80 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
- Minimum 3.0 GPA in your last 60 undergraduate hours
- Statement of purpose
- Résumé
- Three recommendation letters
Northwest Missouri State University
Northwest Missouri State University offers affordable, accelerated online education master’s degrees with eight-week courses and six start dates per year. Many programs can be completed in as little as 12 months.
Courses emphasize practical, classroom-ready application, and field experiences are embedded so you can apply strategies immediately. Online students pay a flat tuition rate, regardless of residency.
Featured Program: MSEd in Special Education
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode: 100% online
- Cost: $391 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree with minimum 2.75 GPA
- Valid teaching certificate or two years of teaching experience
- Official transcripts
Park University
Park University is a private institution in Parkville, MO, offering online MEd programs designed for working professionals. Courses run in an 8-week format, allowing flexible part-time or full-time pacing.
Programs emphasize interaction with faculty and peers, with small class sizes and strong student support. All education programs meet Missouri certification standards, including internships and background clearances when required.
Featured Program: MEd in Educational Leadership
- Duration: 18 months
- Mode: 100% online
- Cost: $657 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA
- Current teaching license
- Felony background check clearance
Top Fields of Study for Missouri MEd Grads
Missouri MEd graduates pursue careers with strong demand, solid salaries, and leadership potential. Below are five of the most popular paths.
School Administration
School administrators play a central role in improving school performance and culture. In Missouri, many districts require a master’s degree for principal roles.
- Median salary: $98,000 per year
- Job outlook: Steady demand due to retirements and turnover
- Common degrees: MEd in Educational Leadership or Administration
An MEd prepares educators to manage budgets, supervise instruction, and lead school-wide initiatives.
Curriculum & Instruction Specialist
Curriculum specialists help design instructional materials and coach teachers. Most roles require a master’s degree plus classroom experience.
- Median pay: $74,620 nationally
- Roles include: Instructional coordinator, academic coach, curriculum director
- Key skills gained: Data analysis, curriculum design, teacher mentoring
This path is ideal if you enjoy improving instruction at a systems level.
Special Education Specialist
Special education remains a critical shortage area in Missouri. Professionals with advanced training are consistently in demand.
- Job growth: Projected 1% nationally, higher in Missouri high-need areas
- Median salary: $64,000 nationally
- Career options: District coordinator, intervention specialist, lead SPED teacher
An MEd in Special Education builds expertise in IEPs, behavioral strategies, and assistive technology.
Educational Technology & E-Learning
As online and blended learning expands, schools need professionals who can integrate technology effectively.
- Career paths: Instructional designer, ed tech coach, learning designer
- Growth outlook: 2% increase through 2033 in related roles
- Work settings: K–12 districts, higher education, corporate training
Missouri districts increasingly rely on teachers with a master’s in educational technology to lead digital initiatives.
Reading & Literacy Specialist
Improving literacy outcomes is a priority across Missouri, creating strong demand for reading specialists.
- Common roles: Literacy coach, reading interventionist, Title I teacher
- Median salary: $53,000, often higher for coaching roles
- Impact: One-on-one and small-group instruction, teacher coaching
An MEd in Reading and Literacy equips you to directly address reading gaps statewide.
Accreditation for Missouri Online MEd Programs
Accreditation is essential when choosing an online MEd program. It ensures educational quality and eligibility for certification.
Most Missouri universities are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Many education programs also hold specialized accreditation from:
- CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation)
- AAQEP (Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation)
Programs may also be approved by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, which is critical for licensure.
Types of Online MEd Programs in Missouri
Online MEd programs in Missouri are designed for a range of schedules and goals.
Full-Time Online MEd Programs
Full-time online MEd programs allow you to immerse yourself in graduate study and complete your degree relatively quickly, often in 12 to 18 months. You’ll also take a heavier course load each term. For example, you may take two courses at a time instead of one, which can be manageable thanks to the convenience of online learning.
Examples:
- Northwest Missouri State University — Master of Science in Educational Leadership
- William Woods University — MEd in Educational Leadership
Part-Time Online MEd Programs
Part-time MEd programs are designed for working professionals who need to balance courses with a full-time job or other obligations, such as family responsibilities. Going part-time typically means you’ll take one course at a time or a lighter load each semester. This extends the program length, often up to three years for a 30- to 36-credit master’s, but makes it much more flexible week-to-week.
Part-time study has many advantages. You can immediately apply what you learn in your classroom and not feel overwhelmed. Missouri universities often allow you to switch between part-time and full-time pacing as needed, but many students appreciate the steady, manageable rhythm of part-time.
Examples:
- University of Missouri–St. Louis — MEd in Early Childhood Education
- Missouri State University — Master of Science in Educational Technology
Online MEd Programs with No GRE Requirement
Standardized tests can be an obstacle for busy adults, so many online MEd programs in Missouri have no Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) requirement for admission. Instead, they focus on your undergraduate GPA, teaching experience, and other factors.
“No GRE” programs are ideal for those who have been out of school for a while or who simply don’t test well. It streamlines the application process, since it means one less thing to study for and schedule. Not needing the GRE doesn’t mean programs are less rigorous; it means they recognize that academic records and professional experience are better indicators of success.
Examples:
- University of Missouri (Mizzou) — MEd in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis
- Park University — MEd in Educational Leadership
Accelerated Online MEd Programs
Accelerated online MEd programs are a great option if you want to earn your degree as fast as possible. These programs condense the timeline through year-round courses, shorter terms, or allowing heavier course loads.
In Missouri, some accelerated MEd or Master of Science in Education (MSEd) tracks can be completed in 12 to 18 months. They often utilize five- to eight-week course formats and successive terms, so you’re continuously taking classes.
Keep in mind that “accelerated” doesn’t mean easy; it means intensive. You’ll be learning a lot in a short span and juggling multiple classes or continuous coursework without long breaks.
Examples:
- Northwest Missouri State University — MSEd in Curriculum & Instruction
- Evangel University — MEd in Curriculum & Instruction Leadership
Cost of Online MEd Programs in Missouri
Online MEd programs in Missouri are often more affordable than in many other states, especially at public universities with flat online tuition.
Most programs cost $10,000–$20,000 total, depending on credit requirements and tuition rates. Financial aid, scholarships, and the ability to keep working while enrolled can further offset costs.
| School | No. of Credits | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Missouri (Mizzou) | 30 | $562 | $16,854 |
| Northwest Missouri State University | 30 | $391 | $11,730 |
| Park University | 30 | $657 | $19,710 |
FAQs from Missouri Online MEd Students
Q1: Do I need to be a licensed teacher to enroll in an online MEd program in Missouri?
Not always — it depends on the program. Programs tied to certification or administration, like principal leadership, usually require a valid teaching license. Other tracks, such as educational technology or curriculum and instruction, may accept non-licensed applicants.
Career changers can also explore MAT or initial certification programs. Always check program-specific requirements.
Q2: Should I take the GRE before applying to Missouri’s online MEd programs?
A: Usually no.
Most Missouri online MEd programs do not require the GRE and instead evaluate GPA, experience, and application materials. Some programs may request scores for conditional admission, but this is uncommon.
Q3: How long does it take to complete an online MEd program in Missouri?
A: Anywhere from 1 to 3 years. Accelerated programs can be completed in 12 months, while part-time programs may take up to three years, depending on course load and format.
Q4: Can I work full-time while pursuing my MEd online?
A: Yes — most students do.
Online MEd programs are designed for working professionals, with asynchronous coursework and flexible pacing. Many students choose part-time enrollment to keep workloads manageable.
Q5: Will an online MEd degree be respected by Missouri schools, and can it help me advance or get a raise?
A: Yes. Accredited online MEd degrees are fully respected by Missouri school districts. A master’s degree often qualifies educators for higher salary lanes and leadership roles, leading to long-term career and income growth.