Find the Best Online Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Programs

The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:

Author: Kathleen Curtis

Kathleen Curtis

Author

Kathleen Curtis is a researcher and writer with more than a dozen articles published on OMD. She's collaborated with college and career professionals on master's degree features across financial aid, education & teaching, and business administration. Kathleen's work has been featured in Forbes, USA TODAY, and U.S. News & World Report. She holds a master's degree in history.

Expertise: Graduate Ed.CareersFinancial Aid

Graduate Ed.CareersFinancial Aid

Editor: Linda Armstrong, MFA

Linda Armstrong, MFA

Editor

With more than 20 years of editing, writing, and content management experience, Linda Armstrong has worked in both print and digital mediums and has earned multiple international writing and editing awards. Specializing in behavioral and mental health treatment, she regularly writes and edits blogs, case studies, white papers, B2B/B2C copy, and more, covering topics ranging from mental health and allergy education to substance misuse and addiction treatment.

Expertise: EditorialGraduate Ed.Online Learning

EditorialGraduate Ed.Online Learning

Why Trust OMD?

Why Trust OMD? Our team of master's-educated experts delivers trusted insights on 50+ fields, from business and MBA programs to education, healthcare, psychology, social work, and STEM. Review our editorial standards and the contributors behind our content.

X

Updated: 10/08/2025

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:

1. 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?
2. 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.
3. 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?
4. 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.
5. 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.

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.

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:

• Federal loans and grants (via FAFSA)
• Scholarships and assistantships
• Employer tuition assistance

Note: Always confirm current tuition and fees before applying.

After Graduation: Salary and Career Outlook

Depending on your goals and background, an online Master of Arts in Teaching can help students pursue:

• Initial K-12 teacher certification
• Career advancement for current teachers
• Leadership and specialized roles

Potential career paths include:

• Elementary, middle, or high school teacher
• Mentor teacher or department head
• Curriculum coordinator or instructional designer
• School administrator (with added certification)
• Community college or adult education instructor

If you’re interested in learning more about what you can do with a master’s in education/teaching, read our guide about top careers with an MEd or MAT.

There is a strong nationwide demand for qualified teachers, especially in high-need subjects and regions. Many districts offer salary increases for teachers with master’s degrees.

A MAT not only enhances your teaching skills and confidence, but it also supports long-term professional growth and greater classroom impact.

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.