Whether you currently work as a teacher and want to expand your skillset and job prospects or you’re an aspiring one who wants to make a difference in the lives of students, earning a master’s in teaching online (MAT) can help you achieve your goals. Through flexible and affordable study plans, you can build advanced skills in core education topics and deepen knowledge in your specialty area.
Finding a top-rated, affordable, and accredited online MAT can take time and research. To help you in your search, this guide details several of the best programs for 2023, previews classes you may take, highlights careers you can apply for after graduating, and answers other key questions you may have. Keep reading to get started on your journey to finding the best online MAT program for you.
Best Online Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Programs for 2023
Fresno Pacific University’s Master of Arts in Teaching challenges students to reflect on their role as teachers, helping them to develop a deep understanding of teacher inquiry and gain a teacher-research identity, which you will apply by completing a classroom action research project and report. After completing the requirements for a preliminary credential (single or multiple subject), students extend and deepen their understanding of effective teaching strategies and curriculum analysis by completing 12 units of post-credential coursework during the first five years of teaching. Courses meet one night a week, with the opportunity for students to engage in scholarly and professional dialogue on teacher inquiry into problems of practice and issues critical to teachers. The program is based on a cohort model, which fosters a robust community of practice, with two semesters of post-credential coursework centered on teacher inquiry and action research.
Program Highlights:
Master of Arts in Teaching
- Credits: 12
- Length: 2 semesters
- Cost: $705 per credi thour
- Mode: Hybrid
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | WSCUC |
Western Kentucky University Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education, Learning and Behavior Disorders is a 100% online program and leads to initial teacher certification. Mid-career professionals gain the flexibility needed to return to school while balancing other responsibilities, moving forward with earning your master’s degree and teacher certification at the same time. Coursework focuses on the profession of special education, the diagnosis and assessment of learning and behavioral disabilities, prescriptive teaching, managing behavior disorders and positive behavior supports, research in special education, and special education law. Students choose from two tracks: learning and behavior disorders or moderate and severe disabilities. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree with a major in an approved subject area, a letter of application (including professional goals), 2.75 GPA, and documentation to satisfy partial criteria for admission to professional education, including references, physical including TB test, signed commitment to uphold the code of ethics, and criminal background check.
Program Highlights:
Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education, Learning and Behavior Disorders
- Credits: 33
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $707 per credit hour
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Northwestern State University of Louisiana’s Master of Arts in Teaching in Secondary School Education is designed for professionals who have non-education baccalaureate degrees and want to earn their initial Louisiana teacher certification. Students choose from secondary school content areas such as biology, business, chemistry, English, family and consumer sciences, mathematics, physics, social studies, and speech. Graduates of the secondary education grades 6-12 programs will meet the requirements for becoming a “highly qualified” educator and a master’s degree. The program culminates in a one-year internship in teaching. Admission requirements include a complete application, official test scores, proof of Immunization/Request for Exemption Form, and official transcripts.
Program Highlights:
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Secondary School Education
- Credits: 33
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $475 per credit hour up to 9 hours, then $100 per credit hour thereafter
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
University of West Alabama Master of Arts in Teaching (Certification) is designed for current teachers who are seeking a master’s degree, want to build their teaching skills and pursue opportunities for advancement or change the subject they teach, and individuals seeking a career change to education. Students must complete 18 hours in the teaching field in a single field of concentration (biology, history, English language arts, mathematics, physical education, science, or social science). Admission requirements include fingerprints/verification of background clearance, and a valid bachelor’s level professional educator certificate in the same teaching fields.
Program Highlights:
Master of Arts in Teaching (Certification)
- Credits: 33-37
- Length: 1 year
- Cost: $429 per credit hour
- Mode: In person or online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Kennesaw State University’s Master of Arts in Teaching leads to initial certification and prepares students to respond to state needs and contribute to the learning and achievement of increasingly diverse public school populations. Coursework emphasizes research-based practices and engagement in a variety of field-based projects, technology and multicultural situations, as well as supervised clinical experiences. Some students may qualify for the accelerated bachelor’s to master’s degree option, which would let them get their degree faster. Admission requirements include complete online graduate application and fee, a bachelor’s degree in English or completion of 18 prerequisite hours in English with a 2.75 GPA, transcripts, personal statement, resume, and two letters of recommendation.
Program Highlights:
Master of Arts in Teaching
- Credits: 39
- Length: 15-18 months
- Cost: $964 per credit hour (Resident); $1,734 per credit hour (Nonresident)
- Mode: In person
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | NWCCU |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | MSCHE |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | NASD |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | WSCUC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | NASD |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Inside Look: Online MAT Programs in Detail
One of the best ways to learn about online MAT programs is to look inside. The spotlights below give you a more detailed idea of the coursework you can expect, the cost structures involved, and what it usually takes to graduate. See if one of these programs has what you’re looking for.
American University
American University offers a Master of Arts in teaching online to prepare you for elementary education roles. The degree consists of 33 credits and 600 hours of classroom hours in your home state. You can complete the program in fewer than two years.
Designed to incorporate 21st-century teaching methods, American University’s degree focuses on antiracist pedagogy, practice-based teacher education, and science-backed teaching methods. New students enter the program at the same time, creating a cohort experience. The curriculum consists of studies in effective teaching for diverse students, foundations of education, and educational psychology theories. Plan to spend eight to 11 hours per week attending classes and completing assignments, two of which require synchronous digital attendance.
Applicants for American University’s master’s in teaching online do not need an undergraduate teaching degree or teaching experience. The program meets requirements for teaching licensure in elementary education in Washington D.C. Check your state to be sure it meets requirements for teaching there as well.
University of Southern California
USC’s Rossier School of Education provides an online MAT program that ranks among the top in the nation. USC uses synchronous coursework to help you stay engaged with peers and professors. Coursework is complemented through field experiences near your place of residence, allowing you to build real-world experience and prepare for licensure. The program enables you to earn credentials in California, including that for education specialists, bilingual authorization in Spanish, and gifted education. You can also choose from a multiple subject teaching concentration (for K-6 education) or a single subject teaching concentration (for secondary school).
Full-time master’s in teaching online students spend 12-18 months completing degree requirements, while part-time learners usually need 18-36 months. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited school, 3.0 or higher GPA, personal statement, short answer responses, resume, recommendation letters, transcripts, and CSET credential exam registration.
Georgia Southern University
Georgia Southern University provides a master’s in teaching online program with concentrations in elementary, health and physical, middle grades, secondary, and special education. A concentration in Spanish education (P-12) is also offered but requires some in-person learning. Regardless of concentration, plan to participate in several field experiences, including a student teaching internship. All field experiences must take place in Georgia.
Each concentration consists of 45 credits and includes general studies in topics like culturally responsive pedagogy, classroom management, and instruction-based assessments. Admission requirements for GSU’s offering include a bachelor’s from a regionally accredited school, 2.5 or higher GPA, GACE Assessment scores, Georgia Educators Ethics Assessment passing score, disposition assessment, and evidence of qualifying for the Georgia provisional certification. International students also need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Advantages of Earning a Master’s in Teaching Online
You may be wondering why you should earn an online master’s degree in teaching, particularly if you already have an education bachelor’s degree and licensure. Reasons for taking this step include the potential for higher salary and leadership roles and the opportunity to specialize. Other advantages include the following.
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Flexibility
Teachers have notoriously busy schedules, making the idea of completing a master’s degree seem overwhelming. Pursuing your degree online allows you to avoid commuting, and many online programs also provide asynchronous coursework you can complete at times best suited to your schedule.
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Affordability
Many online MAT programs allow everyone to pay the same tuition rate as in-state learners, regardless of residency. Additionally, you can avoid many of the campus-based fees your on-campus peers pay by studying via distance learning.
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Career Potential
Earning a master’s in teaching signals to employees that you are serious about your career and want to continue improving and advancing. It also qualifies you for roles unavailable to those with bachelor’s degrees alone.
What You’ll Learn in an Online MAT Program
Online teaching master’s programs offer a comprehensive curriculum covering general teaching topics and subject and grade level specific studies. Core topics include classroom management strategies, research methods, and teaching diverse learners. The specialized courses you take depends on your concentration.
Most online MAT programs culminate in a semester-long student teaching internship. You may also be required to complete some type of comprehensive capstone demonstrating all you learned while enrolled. Some popular courses in these programs are described below.
Popular Courses
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Educational Psychology
Taken during the first year of studies, this foundational course examines the variety of teaching and learning theories currently used and how they impact learning, motivation, outcomes, and assessments. You also study contemporary educational psychology issues to see where the field currently stands and where it is moving.
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Differentiated Instruction
Designed for teachers wanting to work in middle and secondary education settings, this course looks at how to build an inclusive classroom that caters to every student’s learning needs. Students become familiar with a variety of instructional strategies and best practices for supporting differentiated learning.
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Child and Adolescent Development
By understanding the standard trajectory of student development across their school years, you can better tailor teaching and learning strategies to students’ needs. This course familiarizes you with contemporary strategies and theories around childhood development, emphasizing translating that knowledge into classroom management.
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Classroom Diversity
With today’s classrooms becoming increasingly diverse in areas of gender, religion, language, race, and learning styles, it is essential to create classrooms that make each student feel known and welcome. This course looks at common diversity issues and how to address them through best practices.
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Research Methods
Even if you plan to work in the classroom, having a foundational understanding of educational research methods is key to reading and extrapolating information from emerging research. This course looks at ethical considerations, educational research language, citations, plagiarism, and inquiry methods.
Specialization Pathways
The world of K-12 education encompasses a broad array of grade levels, subject areas, and student populations. Because of this, online MAT programs commonly offer specializations for focusing your studies. A concentration develops mastery in your chosen area and helps ensure you find a job matching your interests and skills. The specializations spotlighted below give an idea of the range of those available. Review concentration offerings at several schools to find your perfect match.
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Reading Education
Designed for K-12 educators wanting to work in reading/language arts, this specialization familiarizes you with state-level competency requirements and reviews contemporary theories and methodologies for teaching reading skills. Typical classes include theoretical models of reading, children’s literature, and early childhood reading.
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Special Education
If you want to work with exceptional learners, a special education concentration provides the training needed to seek K-12 licensure after graduation. This option covers behavior management application, evaluation and assessment of exceptional learners, and the nature and needs in special education.
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Teacher Leader
This specialization gives you the skills and qualifications needed to serve as an educator mentor and leader. You study topics like teacher support in low or under-performing areas, peer mentorship and coaching, community engagement strategies, and change and organizational development.
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Bilingual Education
The bilingual education specialization supports teachers wanting to work with students whose first/native language is not English. Besides looking at language acquisition methodologies, course content covers current issues in language minority education, Indo-Chicano cultures and pedagogy, and ESL methods for content literacy.
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Content Areas
If you want to work in middle or high school education, you may want to specialize in a content area. Options for these vary by state and institution but commonly include art, English, health science education, history, mathematics, science, or other common subjects taught at these levels.
Accreditation for Online Teaching Master’s Programs
Make sure the online MAT program you attend is accredited. Failing to find an accredited school can result in problems transferring credits and obtaining licensure.
Accreditation comes in two forms: institutional and programmatic. At the school level, you want a college with regional accreditation from one of six bodies approved by the U.S. Department of Education. At the programmatic level, look for online master’s in teaching degrees accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
If you’re unsure whether a particular school or program holds the proper type of accreditation, check the U.S. Department of Education’s Database of Postsecondary Institutions and Programs.
What You Can Do with a Master’s in Teaching
While a bachelor’s degree can prepare you for a teaching license, it does not guarantee access to leadership roles or higher-paying salaries like a master’s degree can. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that jobs for elementary, middle, and high school teachers are projected to grow by 4% over the next decade, creating plenty of opportunities to move up the career ladder. Teaching jobs offer daily opportunities to make a difference, while still offering solid earnings potential, especially for teachers with a master’s or higher. Check out some of the most popular jobs for graduates with MATs below.
Kindergarten or Elementary School Teacher
These teachers play a pivotal role in young students’ lives, covering introductory topics and teaching plenty of social skills along the way. In addition to planning lessons in multiple subject areas, they also teach students to interact with peers and observe areas of excellence and needed improvement.
| 10th Percentile | Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
|
$39,020 |
$59,670 |
$97,900 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021
Middle School Teacher
Middle school teachers educate students at a precarious transitional point and ensure they receive the educational and emotional support needed to thrive. They create lesson plans, conduct assessments, teach lessons, set exams and papers, and grade assignments. They also communicate regularly with parents and other educational staff on student progress.
| 10th Percentile | Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
|
$39,990 |
$59,660 |
$96,280 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2019
High School Teacher
High school teachers work with students during critical years as they transition into adulthood, either beginning work or continuing to college. They provide advanced subject instruction, grade assignments, prepare learners for standardized tests, consult with parents, and write recommendation letters.
| 10th Percentile | Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
|
$40,540 |
$61,660 |
$99,660 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2019
Special Education Teacher
These education professionals support students with emotional, learning, mental, and/or physical disabilities. They create inclusive, differentiated lesson plans that meet the needs of exceptional learners. They also implement IEPs, track student progress, provide supervision, and plan school activities.
| 10th Percentile | Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
|
$40,730 |
$61,030 |
$98,530 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2019
Elementary, Middle, or High School Principal
Principalships include managing staff and school calendars, overseeing budgetary planning, providing student discipline, and meeting with parents. Principals also create professional development opportunities for teaching and administrative staff and prepare standardized test reports.
| 10th Percentile | Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
|
$63,070 |
$96,500 |
$148,630 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2019
Costs and Financial Aid for Online Master’s Degrees in Teaching
Even if you find an affordable online MAT program, you may still not be able to pay for it out of pocket. Lining up financial aid before you enroll is critical if you want to graduate without loads of debt. Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) ensures you receive consideration for federal loans, grants, and work-study funds. You should also investigate scholarships offered by individual universities, private foundations, and other teaching organizations. Some colleges also offer fellowship or work-study opportunities, and some employers provide tuition assistance.
What Your Online Master’s in Teaching Could Cost
| School Name | No. of Credits | Cost/Credit | Total Tuition Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
|
28 |
$1,995 |
$55,860 |
|
|
36–45 |
$358 |
$12,888–$16,110 |
|
|
31 |
$496 |
$15,376 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Master’s in Teaching Online Programs
What are the admissions requirements for an online MAT program?
As with other components of an online MAT program, admission requirements vary among institutions. To be certain of what you will need, check with individual program pages. Common requirements include:
- Completed application and fee payment
- PRAXIS exam scores
- Official transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Professional resume
- Statement of purpose
- GRE scores
- Criminal background check
- Admissions interview
How long will it take to finish my master’s in teaching online?
How long it takes to finish your online MAT program depends on several factors. Enrolling full- or part-time impacts your timeline, as does any specialization and previous professional experience. At Liberty University, for instance, the MAT program offers both 36 and 45 credit tracks. The shorter program, which lasts about 18 months, supports those already working as teachers but who want to earn the credentials needed to expand their teaching areas. The 45-credit program, conversely, helps students with no previous teaching experience and/or licensure.
Can I earn a master’s in teaching 100% online or do I need to visit campus?
Many master’s in teaching online programs allow you to complete all coursework requirements without ever setting foot on campus. However, every program requires participation in field experiences, including a student teaching internship. Some programs require students to complete the experience in the same state as the school while others allow you to meet these requirements at a school near you.
Does an online master’s in teaching prepare you for initial teaching certification?
Pursuing an online teaching master’s program from a properly accredited institution does qualify you for initial teaching certification. However, many online MAT programs lead to certification only in specific states. If you plan to attend a program outside your state of residence, make sure the licensure qualifications extend to where you plan to teach.
