Best Online Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Programs

An online master’s in teaching (MAT) can open the door to a rewarding career in education. These programs combine flexibility with professional growth, offering rigorous teacher training on your schedule. This student guide covers what to expect and how to get started so you can confidently take the next step in your education and career.

The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:

Author: Kathleen Curtis

Graduate EducationCareer DevelopmentFinancial Aid

Editor: Linda Armstrong, MFA

EditorialGraduate EducationOnline Learning

Updated: 06/02/2026

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Are You Ready?
Reflective questions to help me determine if this degree aligns with my goals and readiness…
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Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
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Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
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Salary/Pay
A look at how much I can expect to earn after graduation...
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FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
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Top Programs
A list of today’s best online and hybrid programs based on quality, affordability, and student support…
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Are You Ready for an Online MAT?

Pursuing an online master’s in teaching is exciting, but it’s also a big commitment. Before you apply, take a moment to reflect on your readiness, goals, and priorities.

Ask yourself the following questions:

Do I have the time and energy for graduate school?
Consider your current work, family, and personal commitments. Can you realistically dedicate 10–20 hours per week for coursework and studying?
Am I comfortable with online learning?
Online learning requires being self-motivated, proactive, and organized. Think about whether you can stay on top of deadlines without in-person classes, engage with classmates and instructors virtually, and keep yourself accountable week after week.
Can I manage in-person teaching requirements?
Most programs include fieldwork or student teaching. Will you be able to fit daytime classroom hours or an internship into your schedule? Can you balance these with other obligations?
Is teaching truly my passion and long-term career goal?
Reflect on why you want to teach. Are you committed to improving student learning? A clear motivation will help you persevere through challenges.
Have I planned financially for this investment?
Tuition and reduced work hours during student teaching can add up. Create a plan that includes savings and financial aid, employer assistance or tuition reimbursement, and a clear budget.

FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:

Comparing Online Master of Teaching Programs

Below are three accredited U.S. universities offering online or hybrid MAT programs. Each one combines convenient online learning with hands-on teaching practice, but they differ in length, cost, and focus.

Read about each program to see what features you should be looking for in other schools.

American University (AU) – Master of Arts in Teaching (Elementary Education)

American University’s online MAT in Elementary Education prepares aspiring elementary teachers (grades K-6) with coursework in child development, inclusive teaching, and instructional design. Students complete:

Part-time classroom practicum
Full-time student teaching semester
600 total hours of field experience

Weekly online classes provide interaction with faculty and peers. Each student also receives personal mentorship from experienced teachers.

Duration: 2 years max. | 30-36 credits

Mode: Online coursework + in-person practicum

Cost: $1,325/credit | $43,725 total

Admissions Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, minimum 3.0 GPA, official transcripts, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, resume

University of Southern California (USC) – Master of Arts in Teaching

USC’s Rossier School of Education offers an online Master of Arts in Teaching with two tracks for students to choose from:

Elementary education (multiple subjects)
Secondary education (English, math, science, or social studies)

Courses are held online, with most evening classes during student teaching. Graduates are recommended for a California teaching credential. USC also provides scholarships and financial aid, with most students receiving support.

This fast-paced, prestigious MAT is ideal for motivated students seeking a reputable degree and a quick path to the classroom.

Duration: 11–15 months | 28 credits

Mode: Online classes + in-person practicum

Cost: $2,267/credit | $63,476 total

Admissions Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, official transcripts, personal statement, letters of recommendation, resume, recorded video interview

Kansas State University – Master of Arts in Teaching (Elementary Education)

K-State Online offers an online Master of Arts in Teaching (Elementary Education) designed for career changers. The program offers two tracks:

License-seeking (for new teachers)
Practitioner (for those already teaching under a restricted license)

The asynchronous online format lets students keep working while studying. K-State partners with schools across the country so students can complete a supervised teaching internship locally.

The program is CAEP-accredited, meets Kansas licensure standards, and boasts:

97% job placement within one year
70% of students receiving scholarships

Duration: 1 year (full-time) or 2 years (part-time)

Mode: Fully online + in-person internship

Cost: $551/credit | $16,620 total

Admissions Requirements: Bachelor’s degree (min. 3.0 GPA in last 60 credits), official transcripts, three references, resume, statement of objectives

Tuition & Fees for Online Master’s in Teaching

Tuition varies widely for online MAT programs, but it typically falls between $15,000 and $60,000 depending on:

Number of credits (30-45 total)
Cost per credit hour
Fees, textbooks, or travel for in-person components

Some schools charge flat tuition for all students, while others differentiate between in-state and out-of-state rates.

Common financial aid options include:

School	Credits	Cost/Credit	Est. Total Tuition
American University	33	$1,325	$43,725
University of Southern California	28	$2,267	$63,476
Kansas State University	31	$551	$17,081

Note: Always confirm current tuition and fees before applying.

Teaching Salary Potential with an MAT

A Master of Arts in Teaching is designed for career changers and recent graduates who want to enter the classroom quickly while earning a rigorous credential. Graduates work as elementary teachers across public, private, and charter school settings — bringing fresh perspectives and often strong subject matter expertise from previous careers. The degree combines pedagogy, student teaching, and content preparation in an accelerated format.

MAT graduates enter teaching at standard district salary levels, with advanced degree status often qualifying them for higher initial placement on pay scales. Compensation grows with experience, additional credentials, and potential movement into instructional leadership roles.

Check the salary table below to see what elementary school teachers earn across states, and benchmark starting and mid-career teacher pay in your area.

Sort by:

75th: $81,450 90th: $104,340

75th: $64,160 90th: $73,950

75th: $97,090 90th: $98,610

75th: $63,440 90th: $79,470

75th: $60,750 90th: $63,120

75th: $119,970 90th: $127,070

75th: $80,160 90th: $98,950

75th: $100,840 90th: $105,890

75th: $86,260 90th: $94,100

75th: $102,650 90th: $128,370

75th: $62,510 90th: $75,780

75th: $77,870 90th: $98,030

75th: $76,740 90th: $95,120

75th: $65,960 90th: $80,710

75th: $97,830 90th: $105,250

75th: $69,830 90th: $77,730

75th: $64,210 90th: $77,400

75th: $61,330 90th: $71,730

75th: $64,570 90th: $79,740

75th: $61,850 90th: $76,380

75th: $78,290 90th: $92,100

75th: $100,560 90th: $107,040

75th: $102,180 90th: $118,190

75th: $79,150 90th: $94,680

75th: $91,290 90th: $100,880

75th: $59,490 90th: $62,990

75th: $61,620 90th: $78,820

75th: $65,190 90th: $78,450

75th: $75,750 90th: $78,130

75th: $78,130 90th: $82,670

75th: $80,880 90th: $92,920

75th: $98,670 90th: $105,480

75th: $78,060 90th: $86,560

75th: $126,930 90th: $136,260

75th: $59,730 90th: $62,590

75th: $61,970 90th: $75,990

75th: $82,720 90th: $99,210

75th: $58,260 90th: $61,930

75th: $92,190 90th: $103,540

75th: $88,660 90th: $99,630

75th: $96,020 90th: $99,610

75th: $74,120 90th: $77,570

75th: $58,030 90th: $60,180

75th: $64,590 90th: $76,840

75th: $65,410 90th: $73,570

75th: $82,600 90th: $100,340

75th: $78,800 90th: $97,230

75th: $82,350 90th: $100,290

75th: $115,880 90th: $127,570

75th: $58,340 90th: $60,790

75th: $76,820 90th: $84,470

75th: $73,860 90th: $76,860

Data reflects national numbers, not school-specific information.

FAQs from Prospective MAT Students

Q: Do I need an undergraduate degree in education or prior teaching experience?

Not necessarily. Unlike online MEd programs, many MAT programs actually welcome career changers from other fields, specifically preparing them for licensure with required fieldwork. What matters most is your bachelor’s degree, communication skills, and passion for teaching.

Q: Will this program help me become a licensed teacher?

Yes, most online MATs lead to licensure. Make sure your chosen program is:

Approved in your state, and
CAEP-accredited (meets national standards)

After completing coursework and student teaching, you’ll take your state teacher exams to finalize certification.

Q: How does student teaching work online?

Online MATs arrange local in-person placements. You’ll work under a mentor teacher for a full semester, gradually taking on classroom responsibilities.

The payoff? This real-world experience often leads directly to job offers.

Q: What’s the difference between a MAT and an MEd, and which should I choose?

While both an MAT and an MEd are master’s-level degrees for current and aspiring educators, they have a few key differences that are important to consider.

MAT: Focuses on teaching practice and classroom skills. Ideal for those seeking initial certification.
MEd: Focuses on leadership, policy, or curriculum design. Better for administrative or non-teaching roles.

Q: How can I finance my master’s in teaching?

To finance your MAT, consider:

FAFSA for federal loans and grants
TEACH Grant (up to $4,000/year for high-need teachers)
Teacher Loan Forgiveness and Public Service Loan Forgiveness programs
University scholarships and district reimbursement plans

Budget for tuition, fees, and living expenses during student teaching to avoid financial stress later.

Best Schools for Online MAT Students

Explore the best online master’s in teaching programs that can help you advance in education and boost your earning potential. This ranking draws on data from the U.S. Department of Education and more than 7,700 colleges and universities, factoring in tuition, financial aid, accreditation, and student support to help you choose the right program for your goals.

Lamar University

Beaumont, TX

Public · SACSCOC

Lamar University’s 12-month MAT program combines online coursework with a residency, preparing candidates for EC-6 Texas teacher certification. It equips educators with culturally responsive teaching skills, reflective practice, and strategies to address diverse learner needs and social justice in school communities. Residency offers hands-on mentorship experience.

Program Highlights:

Lamar University's online Master of Education programs offer affordable tuition paid per course, helping students manage costs effectively.
The programs provide multiple start dates and fast-paced, 7-week courses designed to fit the busy schedules of working educators.
Specialized options like the M.Ed. in Special Education prepare students for Educational Diagnostician certification with relevant legal and assessment training, enhancing job readiness.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $6,471
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 8,900

Southeast Missouri State University

Cape Girardeau, MO

Public · HLC

The MAT program at Southeast Missouri State University offers an online Master of Arts in Teaching with middle or secondary certification. It combines coursework and field experiences to prepare candidates with a bachelor’s degree for teaching certification in various content areas, requiring a 3.0 GPA and state assessments.

Program Highlights:

The SEMO MAT Middle or Secondary Teaching Certification program allows completion of fieldwork practicums in the graduate student’s current workplace, provided it meets certification requirements, offering flexible real-world teaching experience.
Students gain specialized literacy instruction skills for middle and secondary levels, including techniques for supporting students with academic challenges, enhancing classroom effectiveness.
The program offers online coursework combined with supervised internship experiences, enabling working professionals to earn initial teaching certification and a master's degree efficiently while balancing other commitments.

School Type Public
Application Fee No
Tuition $6,565
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 1,157

University of Central Missouri

Warrensburg, MO

Public · HLC

The University of Central Missouri’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) prepares educators to develop effective teaching strategies, understand curriculum, and address diverse student needs. The fully online program combines theory, practical experience, and certification, boasting an 86% job placement rate within six months of graduation.

Program Highlights:

The University of Central Missouri’s Educational Foundations and Literacy master’s program offers 100% online graduate degree programs with personalized faculty mentoring, ensuring flexible learning with individual support.
The program is CAEP-accredited, demonstrating high-quality, nationally recognized teacher preparation aligned with Missouri K–12 Special Reading Teacher Certification standards.
Graduates benefit from multiple specialized literacy career tracks, including eligibility for roles such as reading coach, literacy specialist, and access to alternative certification pathways for career advancement.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $8,544
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 1,633

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

Private · NWCCU

WGU’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) programs prepare aspiring or current teachers for certification and licensure in subjects like mathematics. These online, competency-based programs offer flexibility, affordable tuition, and practical coursework designed to meet state requirements and classroom readiness in about 18 to 25 months.

Program Highlights:

WGU’s education master’s programs feature a unique competency-based model that lets students accelerate completion by progressing as quickly as they can demonstrate mastery of the material, providing flexibility to balance work and life commitments.
The programs incorporate immersive virtual and in-person clinical experiences, such as advanced simulations and student teaching placements, which build real-world confidence and teaching skills before entering the classroom.
WGU offers specialized education master’s tracks with practical, employer-aligned curricula designed by experts, including leadership development and instructional design, ensuring graduates gain career-focused skills for diverse educational roles.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $8,302
Accreditation NWCCU
Online Students 49,193

University of the Cumberlands

Williamsburg, KY

Private · SACSCOC

The University of the Cumberlands’ online Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) prepares professionals to become effective educators through coursework in educational theory, classroom management, curriculum design, and diverse learner engagement, offering flexible scheduling and multiple concentration options. It includes practical clinical experiences for licensure readiness.

Program Highlights:

The University of the Cumberlands' MAT program offers seven specialized concentrations, allowing students to tailor their degree toward specific education tracks such as Special Education, Business and Marketing, or Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education.
Students benefit from flexible online scheduling that accommodates full-time work, enabling them to earn their degree without pausing their professional careers.
The program includes three clinical courses and practicum experiences designed to provide extensive hands-on training, ensuring strong preparation and high clinical placement for future educators.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $4,260
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 14,077

Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global

Marion, IN

Private · HLC

Indiana Wesleyan University’s M.S. in Elementary Teaching program is for teachers with a Transition-to-Teaching certificate who want to advance their careers. It prepares candidates for effective elementary teaching, leadership, or college-level roles, with courses in special education, instructional strategies, and education research, offered online with Christ-centered support.

Program Highlights:

Indiana Wesleyan University’s Elementary Teaching program offers an accelerated, 100% online Transition to Teaching track that prepares students for Indiana licensure with diverse, practical field experiences.
The program features extensive, supervised student teaching placements that provide hands-on classroom teaching experience under faculty and mentor guidance, ensuring strong readiness for professional teaching roles.
Indiana Wesleyan integrates a faith-based learning environment with expert faculty mentorship, combining biblical truths and research-based practices to foster spiritual growth alongside educational development.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $9,731
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 6,457

Campbellsville University

Campbellsville, KY

Private · SACSCOC

Campbellsville University’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) offers an alternative certification for career changers. It includes coursework on instructional design, classroom management, and learning theory, combined with field placements and student teaching, preparing graduates for certification and successful teaching careers across elementary, middle, or high school levels. The program embraces a Christ-centered philosophy.

Program Highlights:

Campbellsville University's Master of Arts in Teaching program offers close mentoring relationships with faculty who all hold active North Carolina teaching licenses, ensuring expert guidance grounded in real classroom experience.
The program allows up to 12 transfer credits and requires no GRE/GMAT, facilitating an accelerated and accessible path to certification for prospective educators.
Students gain comprehensive field-based practicum and 16 weeks of student teaching, including cognitive coaching in real classrooms, providing robust hands-on training and high clinical placement support.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $9,620
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 3,841

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL

Public · SACSCOC

USF’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) programs prepare individuals with non-education bachelor’s degrees for Florida teacher certification through rigorous coursework and clinical experiences. They offer specializations including elementary and exceptional student education, integrating endorsements in ESOL and Reading, with mentoring and real-world practice. Graduates gain a master’s degree plus certification eligibility.

Program Highlights:

USF MAT students may receive over $400,000 annually in scholarships, plus eligibility for grants like the Florida Fund for Minority Teachers and TEACH Grant, supporting financial aid.
The program integrates extensive field experiences with mentoring by experienced teachers and university supervisors, enhancing practical teaching skills through real classroom partnerships.
USF offers ESOL and Reading Endorsements within the MAT for all graduates, equipping them with specialized credentials to teach diverse student populations in Florida.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $8,350
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 5,373

Webster University

Saint Louis, MO

Private · HLC

Webster University’s MAT program equips future teachers with discipline-specific expertise, adolescent development knowledge, and practical skills for effective, inclusive secondary education. It emphasizes curriculum design, collaborative learning, and technology use, preparing educators for certification and impactful teaching in diverse classrooms, offered fully online with CAEP accreditation.

Program Highlights:

Webster University's MAT program offers a fully online cohort model with weekly synchronous seminars for mentorship and peer support, enhancing collaborative learning and practical skills development.
The program provides an accelerated completion option with opportunities for virtual field experiences and clinical practicum, ensuring real-world teaching experience before graduation.
Eligible students can benefit from a cohort reduced tuition rate of $550 per credit hour, making the program more affordable through exclusive pricing for qualified groups.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $13,140
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 4,365

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA

Public · WSCUC

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) at San José State University prepares educators for social justice teaching, cultural literacy, and democratic education in urban and suburban schools. It combines a teaching credential with a master’s degree, emphasizing inclusive classrooms and teacher inquiry through research or thesis options.

Program Highlights:

The SJSU MS in Clinical Psychology program is approved by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences, providing the required education for Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) licensure in California.
The program emphasizes evidence-based practice with faculty expertise spanning Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic traditions, and culturally informed interventions.
Students gain supervised clinical experience designed to develop high professional and interpersonal maturity, essential for successful internship placement and licensure eligibility.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $7,176
Accreditation WSCUC
Online Students 5,610

University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus

Denver, CO

Public · HLC

The MAT + Teaching Licensure at CU Denver offers a full-time, cohort-based program combining advanced degree coursework with extended clinical internships. It prepares graduates to teach effectively in diverse urban classrooms through mentorship and hands-on experience, fostering confident, skilled educators ready to lead and make a difference.

Program Highlights:

CU Denver’s teaching program offers a proven and perfected residency model developed over nearly 30 years with partner schools, ensuring graduates are highly prepared and confident in diverse urban classrooms.
Students may earn up to $40,000 in stipends and grants for the three-semester Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program, with advisors assisting them to access state and federal funding to offset tuition costs.
The program provides accelerated completion options allowing students to earn both a master's degree and initial Colorado teacher licensure in as little as one year, with multiple start times to accommodate personal schedules.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $8,100
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 4,657

National University

San Diego, CA

Private · WSCUC

The Master of Education in Inspired Teaching and Learning at National University offers a pathway to California Preliminary Multiple or Single Subject teaching credentials, featuring emphases such as English Learner Equity, Inspired Teaching Practices, Social Emotional Learning, and STEAM/STEM education, combined with clinical practice options including student teaching or internships. It integrates diverse learner needs and reflective professional growth.

Program Highlights:

The Master of Education in Inspired Teaching and Learning Internship program allows candidates to serve as paid teachers of record in approved K-12 classrooms, providing valuable real-world teaching experience while earning their credential.
The program includes comprehensive, ongoing university and district supervision, support, and clinical practice embedded throughout the internship, ensuring high-quality professional development and readiness for teaching.
Candidates benefit from a structured sequence of courses designed to fulfill California Commission on Teacher Credentialing requirements, including specialized preparation for teaching English Learners, enhancing their employability in diverse educational settings.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $15,912
Accreditation WSCUC
Online Students 9,248

Clemson University

Clemson, SC

Public · SACSCOC

Clemson’s 30-credit-hour online MAT program prepares career changers with non-education bachelor’s degrees to teach middle level, secondary, or modern languages. It offers local field experiences, a paid teaching internship option, and leads to teacher certification and higher starting salaries. Study is flexible and hands-on.

Program Highlights:

Clemson’s MAT program offers a tuition-free pathway for 36 career changers through a state grant, covering all tuition and associated costs while working as paid educational assistants in partner school districts.
The program allows students to work as teachers of record under an internship certificate while completing coursework, enabling paid employment and reducing financial burdens during degree completion.
Students gain local classroom experience with guaranteed placement in South Carolina schools, supported by strong employer partnerships that prioritize high-need subject areas and districts.

School Type Public
Application Fee No
Tuition $11,220
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 2,832

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Charlotte, NC

Public · SACSCOC

The UNC Charlotte Teaching (M.A.T.) program offers an online, two-phase pathway leading to initial and advanced licensure in middle grades and secondary education. It combines a Graduate Certificate with advanced coursework for flexible, career-focused training that prepares educators for licensure and effective classroom teaching.

Program Highlights:

The program offers a 100% online format with flexible, self-paced courses and part-time options, allowing students to balance education with professional and personal commitments.
Completion of the Graduate Certificate phase leads to an Initial Professional Licensure (IPL) in North Carolina, and continuing to the Master's phase enables qualification for an advanced Standard Professional II teaching license.
Students experience direct mentorship with assigned advisors and faculty committed to student success, enhancing personalized guidance throughout the program.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $4,467
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 3,574

Georgia Southern University

Statesboro, GA

Public · SACSCOC

The fully online Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Special Education program at Georgia Southern leads to initial P-12 certification and a master’s degree. It requires 45 credit hours, includes supervised field experiences in Georgia schools, and prepares graduates for the Georgia T-5 Special Education General Curriculum Certification. The program is CAEP accredited and recognized in many states.

Program Highlights:

The program offers up to $37,500 in Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarships with a forgivable loan structure for teaching in high-need school districts.
Georgia Southern provides multiple scholarships specifically for graduate students in special education, including awards based on academic merit, financial need, and community involvement.
The Special Education MAT program is delivered fully online, allowing flexible completion while maintaining CAEP accreditation and Georgia Professional Standards Commission approval.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $4,986
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 3,113

Texas Woman’s University

Denton, TX

Public · SACSCOC

Texas Woman’s University’s MAT program offers initial teacher certification with a flexible hybrid or online format, combining pedagogy, content knowledge, and supervised teaching. Designed for career changers, it emphasizes research-based practices, culturally responsive teaching, and balanced professional-personal life integration, requiring 30 credit hours and passing certification exams.

Program Highlights:

The Texas Woman's University Master of Arts in Teaching program offers flexible course delivery options, including hybrid and fully online formats, to accommodate students' personal and professional lives.
Students benefit from instruction by experienced faculty emphasizing evidence-based pedagogy, culturally responsive teaching, and strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
The program includes a full-time clinical student teaching or internship in TEA-accredited schools, providing hands-on, real-world experience as a teacher of record to enhance job readiness.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $5,184
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 4,256

University of the People

Pasadena, CA

Private · WSCUC

The University of the People’s Master of Education in Advanced Teaching (M.Ed.) is a tuition-free, fully online program designed to enhance teaching skills through curriculum, pedagogy, and assessment expertise. It offers specialization for K-8 or 6-12 educators and prepares teachers for diverse, inclusive classrooms without state certification. Completion requires 39 credits over about a year.

Program Highlights:

The University of the People’s Master of Education program is tuition-free, requiring students only to pay minimal fees, significantly reducing financial barriers for prospective educators.
The program is developed in collaboration with the International Baccalaureate (IB), ensuring a globally minded curriculum that fosters intercultural competence and inquiry-based teaching skills.
Students receive continuous academic support through assigned Program Advisors who provide personalized guidance throughout their studies from enrollment to graduation.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition N/A
Accreditation WSCUC
Online Students 6,481

Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw, GA

Public · SACSCOC

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) at Kennesaw State University offers initial certification through rigorous, research-based coursework and extensive clinical experiences. It includes nine concentrations, such as Elementary Education, Secondary Math, Science, and TESOL, with a focus on diverse, effective teaching strategies and adolescent development. The program is standards-based and mostly online with supervised field placements.

Program Highlights:

Kennesaw State University's MAT program offers a 100% online pedagogy-only track designed for those with prior content expertise seeking initial teacher certification in Georgia, providing flexibility and convenience without compromising quality.
The program features yearlong, supervised clinical experiences and in-person field placements, ensuring high-quality mentoring and practical teaching preparation across diverse educational settings.
MAT students join a vibrant, supportive cohort within Bagwell College of Education, promoting lifelong networking, collaboration, and access to an active alumni community beyond graduation.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $5,328
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 3,412

Wilmington University

New Castle, DE

Private · MSCHE

Wilmington University’s Master of Arts in Secondary Teaching (MAT) prepares candidates to teach grades 6-12 by combining educational theory with practical experience. The program emphasizes meeting diverse student needs, technology use, and community engagement, ideal for career changers seeking state certification and a master’s degree in education.

Program Highlights:

Wilmington University's M.A. in Secondary Teaching offers a tuition cost savings of over $2,000 by structuring practicum courses to minimize credit requirements and fees.
The program includes an immersive Year-Long Residency option that enhances student teaching experience and leads to high demand for graduates in quality schools.
Faculty are experienced educators actively practicing in the field, providing candidates with real-world insight and strong preparation to lead diverse classrooms effectively.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $9,432
Accreditation MSCHE
Online Students 4,141

Valdosta State University

Valdosta, GA

Public · SACSCOC

The M.A.T. in Middle Grades or Secondary Education at Valdosta State University is a 36-credit program for non-education majors, offering two tracks: Employed Teacher (2 years) and Full-Time Student (4 semesters). It combines coursework and field experiences, culminating in Georgia Level 5 teaching certification.

Program Highlights:

The program offers an Employed Teacher track allowing current provisional certificate holders to earn Level 4 Georgia certification in one year and complete the master's in two years.
Students benefit from small class sizes and strong faculty interaction alongside advanced training in teaching technologies.
Collaborative partnerships with South Georgia public schools provide valuable real-world classroom experience through apprenticeships and internships.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $4,572
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 2,728

Missouri State University-Springfield

Springfield, MO

Public · HLC

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) at Missouri State offers a 100% online route (except internships) for non-education bachelor’s holders to earn teaching certification and a master’s degree in various K-12 content areas, enhancing salary potential and career flexibility. Internships require classroom field experience.

Program Highlights:

The Missouri State University MAT program offers a 100% online course format with flexible scheduling, allowing students to complete coursework from anywhere in Missouri while working full-time.
Students can earn teaching certification in a wide variety of specific content areas, including fine arts, sciences, languages, and business, enabling them to teach subjects they are passionate about.
The program includes full-semester, in-classroom field experiences and student teaching in accredited school districts, providing hands-on, practical training essential for certification and classroom readiness.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $6,264
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 3,040

Arkansas State University

Jonesboro, AR

Public · HLC

Arkansas State University’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program offers 100% online pathways to licensure in various education fields, emphasizing practical pedagogy, classroom management, and technology integration to prepare effective, diverse educators for K-12 settings. Specializations include elementary, middle, special education, and business technology.

Program Highlights:

Arkansas State University’s online Master of Arts in Teaching program offers accelerated completion options, allowing students to earn their degree in as few as 12 to 16 months with flexible online coursework taught by dedicated faculty.
The program includes a supervised internship focused on educational practice and performance, providing hands-on, practical teaching experience in classroom settings as part of the curriculum.
Students benefit from expert faculty support to help them succeed and navigate the initial licensure process, ensuring personalized guidance throughout the program.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $6,534
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 4,575

Greensboro College

Greensboro, NC

Private · SACSCOC

The Licensure Plus Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) TESOL at Greensboro College prepares educators to teach K-12 English learners. It offers online or hybrid formats in two steps, leading to state licensure and a master’s degree, requiring a 3.0 GPA and recommendation letters. Summer face-to-face sessions are available.

Program Highlights:

The Licensure Plus TESOL program offers flexible scheduling with evening classes back-to-back and a full summer schedule, accommodating working adults effectively.
Students can transfer up to 9 graduate credits, reducing time and cost toward licensure and the Master of Arts in Teaching degree in TESOL.
The program provides a two-step pathway allowing candidates to earn either an initial teaching license or continue for a master’s degree and a master's-level license with only 15 additional credit hours, offering accelerated completion options.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $4,416
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 88

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