Accredited online MEd programs in Ohio offer flexibility for working professionals, competitive tuition, and pathways to in-demand education careers. By choosing a reputable Ohio-based program, you can advance your teaching or leadership skills without stepping away from the classroom, setting you up for success in Ohio’s thriving education field. Let OMD show you how to get started.
- 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 Ohio
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 Ohio Schools for Online MEd Programs
Below, we highlight three accredited Ohio universities selected for their quality online MEd programs. Each offers flexible online or hybrid learning and a range of specializations to fit different career goals. Programs are designed for working educators, so you can earn your MEd part-time while teaching, or accelerate to finish faster. Read on for a breakdown of each school’s online MEd offerings and a spotlight on one specific degree option at each institution.
Ohio University
Ohio University (OU) offers 13 online master’s programs in education, from content-area specialties (like MEd tracks in English, social studies, or chemistry education) to leadership and technology fields. Educators can pursue unique options such as an MEd in Athletic Administration or a Master’s in Computer Education and Technology, as well as classic programs in reading education or curriculum & instruction. Designed with working teachers in mind, courses are delivered 100% online, so you can continue teaching while studying. OU’s teacher prep programs are state-approved and CAEP-accredited, ensuring online degrees meet the same rigorous outcomes as campus programs. No GRE is required for OU education master’s admissions, and in-state tuition is affordable at about $508/credit.
Program Highlight: MEd in Reading Education
Duration: 31 credits, completable in 3 semesters full-time
Format: 100% online, asynchronous
Cost: $508 per credit, in state; $527 per credit, out of state
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3.0 GPA)
- Valid teaching license with prior literacy coursework (for endorsement alignment)
- Three letters of recommendation
Cleveland State University
With programs emphasizing real-world strategies, Cleveland State University (CSU) caters to educators seeking specialized graduate credentials through seven online MEd programs. Each MEd track focuses on a niche such as educational technology, gifted & talented education, TESOL and curriculum & instruction, adult & higher education, and more. All coursework can be completed entirely online, mostly asynchronously, and any assignments are project-based, so you can apply new strategies directly in your classroom. The university also offers robust support services and financial aid guidance for online learners.
Program Highlight: MEd in Educational Research & Assessment
Duration: 30 credits, about 1.5–2 years
Format: Fully online
Cost: $603 per credit, in state
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Official undergraduate transcripts
- One-page statement of goals
- Valid teaching license for some tracks
- One professional recommendation may be requested
Youngstown State University
With seven fully online MSEd programs, Youngstown State delivers practical training for today’s educational needs. Taught by experienced faculty with strong academic and K-12 backgrounds, concentrations include educational administration, curriculum & instruction, and special education tracks focusing on Autism Spectrum Disorders or Intervention Specialist training. All programs are entirely online with flexible pacing. Accelerated 7-week courses allow you to focus on one class at a time and still move quickly through the program. No campus residency is required; internships/field experiences for principal candidates can be completed locally at a school near you.
Program Highlight: MSEd in Educational Administration (Principal Licensure)
Duration: 30 credits; about 20 months full-time
Format: 100% online
Cost: $415 per credit, in state
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (minimum 2.5 GPA)
- Official transcripts from all colleges attended
- Valid Ohio teaching certificate/license with at least two years of teaching experience (required for principal licensure track)
- Three professional references
Top Five Career Fields for MEd Graduates in Ohio
Many students pursue an MEd to unlock new career opportunities or advance in their current role. In Ohio, demand is strong for education professionals in several key fields. Below are five top career paths for MEd graduates, chosen for their job growth, salary potential (ROI), and impact in Ohio’s education landscape.
K-12 School Administration (Principal/Administrator)
Why it’s Hot: With an MEd in educational leadership or administration, you can become a principal, vice principal, or district administrator. Ohio is projected to need more school administrators, with principal jobs forecasted to grow about 7% by 2030 in the state. Ohio elementary and secondary principals earn a median salary around $97,180, above teacher salaries. Administrators oversee budgets, staff, and curriculum to create effective learning environments.
Instructional Coordination & Curriculum Specialist
Why it’s Hot: MEd graduates who specialize in curriculum and instruction or assessment often become instructional coordinators or curriculum specialists at the district level. These professionals design instructional materials, implement new academic standards, and mentor teachers to improve classroom effectiveness. In Ohio and nationally, this field is growing – an 8% job growth is projected for curriculum developers through 2031, with median salaries about $60–62K in Ohio. The ROI is solid, and the work can be rewarding for master teachers who want to impact education on a broader scale without moving into full administration.
Special Education Specialist/Interventionist
Why it’s Hot: Special education is a high-need field in Ohio, as in most states. An MEd in Special Education can lead to roles like intervention specialist, special education teacher leader, or district special ed coordinator. Ohio schools are urgently hiring special educators, and job openings are expected to grow 6–8% this decade, depending on grade level. Ohio special education teachers earn roughly $57–65K on average, and an MEd may qualify you for an additional $2,000–$5,000 in annual salary in many districts. Beyond teaching, MEd grads can become intervention specialists who coordinate IEPs, behavior coaches, or special ed directors at the district level.
Instructional Design & Educational Technology
Why it’s Hot: In the corporate and higher-ed world, instructional designers and educational technologists are in high demand to create online learning experiences. MEd graduates with a concentration in instructional design or learning technologies can step into roles as instructional designers, e-learning developers, or education technology specialists. The job outlook is excellent – the field is projected to grow about 7% nationally through 2031. Ohio’s many universities, healthcare organizations, and companies are hiring curriculum designers for training and development. Median salaries for instructional designers are around $63,000 and experienced designers or those in corporate sectors can earn well above $75K.
Higher Education & Student Affairs
Why it’s Hot: An MEd or MSEd can springboard you into higher education administration or adult learning roles. Many Ohio colleges prefer hiring academic advisors, student services coordinators, and program directors who hold a master’s in education or counseling. While the projected job growth (around 2–3% for roles like academic deans or admissions officers) is more modest the career ROI can be good if you advance to leadership roles. Entry-level student affairs positions may start in the $40–50K range, but a master’s is often required for advancement. This field appeals to those who want to impact postsecondary education, perhaps managing an advising center, overseeing admissions, or coordinating adult education programs.
Accreditation: Why It Matters for Ohio’s Online MEd Programs
Accreditation is critical when selecting an online M.Ed. It ensures your degree will be recognized by employers, state licensure boards, and other universities. In Ohio, you’ll want to look for two types of accreditation: regional accreditation that applies to the university as a whole and programmatic accreditation for specific programs. Ohio schools are typically accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), which is the regional accreditor for Ohio and neighboring states; all reputable Ohio universities hold HLC accreditation.
Programmatic accreditation comes from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) that evaluates education schools on criteria like curriculum quality, clinical experiences, and candidate outcomes. Ohio’s teacher prep programs are approved by the Ohio Dept. of Higher Education and accredited by CAEP, meaning they meet state and national standards for preparing effective teachers. Other relevant accreditors include CACREP (for counseling programs) and ABET (for tech education programs).
Types of Online MEd Programs
Online MEd programs in Ohio aren’t one-size-fits-all. Universities have developed various formats to serve different needs, including full-time Intensive tracks where you take a heavier course load and finish faster (often in 12–18 months), part-time programs for working teachers and busy adults, and accelerated MEd programs for completion in as little as one year. Many Ohio programs have no-GRE admissions, waiving the test requirement and instead focusing on your undergraduate GPA and experience.
Full-Time Online MEd Programs in Ohio
Full-time online MEd programs allow you to earn your degree quickly, often in around one year to 18 months. In a full-time format, you’ll take a heavier course load (such as two courses per term, sometimes in accelerated 7–8 week blocks). This option works well for recent grads or those who can scale back work hours temporarily to focus on school. Full-time online programs are intensive with 15–20 hours of coursework per week for each class.
Examples of Full-Time Online/Hybrid MEd Programs in OH:
- Ohio University’s Online MEd in Reading Education
- University of Mount Union’s MEd in Educational Leadership
- University of Cincinnati’s Online MEd in Instructional Design and Technology
Part-Time Online MEd Programs in Ohio
Part-time programs are the go-to choice for working educators and busy parents. In a part-time online MEd, you might take only one course at a time or a couple of courses per semester, allowing you to spread out the workload. The degree takes longer (often 2 to 3 years to finish), but you maintain a comfortable balance with your job and personal life. Part-time online MEd students in Ohio still qualify for financial aid, and you can apply what you learn in real time.
Examples of Part-Time Online/Hybrid MEd Programs in OH:
- CSU’s Online MEd in Gifted Education,
- Kent State University – Curriculum & Instruction Master’s
- Cleveland State University MEd
No GRE Required: Online MEd Admissions Made Easy
Many online MEd programs in Ohio do not require GRE scores, focusing on your academic record and experience instead. This trend has made graduate education more accessible, as long as you meet the GPA requirement (often 3.0) and other criteria. Some programs might ask for a resume or evidence of licensure. Focus on assembling a strong application and that shows your professional passion.
Examples of Online MEd Programs in OH with No GRE:
- Ohio University MEd specializations
- University of Cincinnati MEd programs
- Ohio Dominican University MEd in Curriculum & Instruction
Accelerated Online MEd Programs
If you’re eager to earn your master’s as fast as possible, look for accelerated online MEd options. An accelerated program compresses the length of courses or packs in more terms per year so you graduate sooner. Many Ohio universities achieve this by using quarter or mini-term formats online. Even programs that aren’t explicitly labeled “accelerated” can often be completed faster by taking max course loads. You’ll cover the same material and credits, just in a tighter timeline. Most accelerated online programs offer resources like dedicated academic advisors, cohort peer groups, or success coaches to help you stay on track.
Examples of Accelerated MEd Programs in OH:
- Ohio University Reading MEd
- Ohio Dominican MEd programs
- Franklin University Master’s
Cost Overview of Online MEd Programs in Ohio
Cost is a big consideration, and tuition for online MEd programs in Ohio varies by institution. Ohio’s programs are relatively affordable compared to national averages. Ohio’s public schools often offer lower rates for residents. Per-credit tuition for online MEd courses at state universities typically ranges from about $500 to $600 per credit.
Private colleges in Ohio usually have a flat rate for all online students. These tend to be a bit higher, often around $600–$700 per credit. Private schools often offset costs with scholarships or partner discounts.
Online students save on commuting and campus fees, but watch for online course fees, technology fees, or a one-time graduation fee. These usually add a few hundred dollars overall. You’ll also need to budget for books or e-books. Most online MEd students use federal student loans. Be sure to fill out the FAFSA and ask your school about any scholarships for which online students can apply.
Here is a snapshot of sample program costs:
School (Program) | Credits | Cost per Credit | Est. Total Tuition |
---|---|---|---|
Ohio University – MEd Reading Education | 31 | $583 | $18,073 |
Youngstown State – MSEd Curriculum & Instruction | 30 | $415 | $12,450 |
University of Mount Union – Online Master of Education Degree | 30 | $610 | $18,300 |
Tuition rates are based on the latest academic year for in-state residents. Always check the latest figures and inquire about available scholarships or cohort discounts.
FAQs about Online MEd Programs in Ohio
Can I work full-time as a teacher while pursuing my MEd online?
Most online MEd students in Ohio work full time. Programs are designed with flexibility for educators’ schedules with asynchronous courses, meaning you can log in after school or on weekends to complete lectures and discussions. Many students take one or two courses per term while teaching.
Will an online MEd degree be respected by Ohio school districts?
An online MEd from an accredited Ohio institution holds the same value as one earned on campus. As long as it’s from an Ohio-accredited school, an online MEd is not only respected but often encouraged – districts love to see teachers improving their qualifications, and some have partnerships with online programs.
How long does it take to finish an online Master of Education?
It depends on whether you study full-time or part-time. Full-time online MEd students can finish in about 12 to 18 months. If you choose part time with one course at a time, it’s more like two to three years. Online programs with flexible pacing make it easier to speed up or slow down as life demands.
Do I need a teaching license or education background to apply for an MEd program?
For most MEd programs, a teaching background is expected, but there are exceptions. Traditional MEd programs assume you’re a licensed teacher or at least have some teaching experience, since coursework builds on classroom practice. Many programs explicitly require a teaching license or will ask that you’re eligible for one. Some tracks are open to broader audiences and may not require a teaching license, just any bachelor’s degree. If you’re a career-changer without a teaching license, you might be looking for a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program instead, which provides initial licensure.
What’s the difference between an MEd and a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)?
An MEd (Master of Education) is typically designed for current educators looking to deepen expertise or move into leadership. It often has specializations like curriculum, administration, counseling, etc., and assumes you’re already a teacher or working in education. The MAT (Master of Arts in Teaching), on the other hand, is usually aimed at those who want to become teachers but have a bachelor’s in another field. MAT programs focus on pedagogy and subject-area preparation and almost always include student teaching and lead to initial teacher licensure. If you already have a teaching license, you’ll likely work on an MEd. If you want to start teaching, look at MAT or alternative licensure pathways.
Are there scholarships or loan forgiveness programs for MEd students in Ohio?
Yes, there are several avenues to help finance your MEd. First, fill out the FAFSA – grad students often qualify for unsubsidized federal loans. Check if your school offers scholarships for graduate students. Some Ohio universities have small scholarships specifically for educators or alumni of their undergrad programs.