Best Online Master's in Education Programs in Washington State

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Author: Ellery Weil, MA

Ellery Weil, MA

Author

Ellery Weil, PhD, is a writer and content professional whose OMD features concentrate on master's-level education in public health, education/teaching, social work, and more. She has collaborated with graduate students and educators across the U.S. to pen articles on test taking anxiety, student loans, and grad school scholarships. Ellery holds her PhD and master's in history from University College London.

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Editor: Jordan Cosselman

Jordan Cosselman

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Jordan Cosselman graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno with a BA in English. She joined the OMD team in 2021 with the goal of making graduate education more approachable for students from all walks of life. She's especially interested in helping students understand the ROI of a master's degree, so they feel confident in their investment.

Updated: 01/13/2026

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Updated: 01/13/2026

Identifying Washington’s Best Master of Education Programs

Top Concentrations for Washington Education Programs

Washington’s workforce needs, salary structures, and certification requirements make certain MEd concentrations especially valuable.

Special Education

Special education is Washington’s #1 teacher shortage area, creating strong demand statewide.

Districts actively recruit educators with advanced training, and salaries are among the highest nationally. Special education teachers in Washington earn an average of $85,360 per year, reflecting both demand and specialization.

Early Childhood Education

Early childhood education is another high-need field, driven by expanded early learning initiatives.

Employment for preschool and kindergarten teachers in Washington is projected to grow 17–18%, far above the national average. An online MEd in Early Childhood Education can lead to roles such as preschool director, early learning specialist, or curriculum coordinator.

Educational Leadership (Administration)

Educational leadership prepares educators for roles such as principal, assistant principal, or district administrator. Washington requires a master’s degree and administrative certification for these positions. Salaries are strong, with K–12 principals earning an average of $148,750 annually, among the highest in the U.S.

English Language Learners (ELL/ESOL)

Washington serves roughly 135,000 English learners, about 12% of the K–12 population. ELL and bilingual education remain shortage areas statewide. An MEd in TESOL supports endorsement eligibility and prepares educators for roles such as ELL specialist, bilingual teacher, or curriculum coach.

School Counseling

School counseling continues to grow in importance as districts address mental health, social-emotional learning, and postsecondary readiness. Washington school counselors earn an average of ~$75,780 per year, with higher pay in metro areas. Programs typically lead to the Educational Staff Associate (ESA) counseling certificate.

Accreditation for Washington Online MEd Programs

Accreditation ensures your degree is recognized, respected, and licensure-eligible.

Washington universities hold regional accreditation from NWCCU, confirming academic quality. Many education programs also pursue CAEP accreditation, signaling alignment with national educator preparation standards.

Equally important is PESB approval, which is required for programs leading to Washington licensure or endorsements. Always verify both institutional accreditation and state approval before enrolling.

Types of Online MEd Programs in Washington

Washington universities offer multiple online formats to meet different scheduling and career needs.

Full-Time Programs

Full-time online MEd programs allow completion in 12–18 months. Students take heavier course loads and spend many evenings and weekends on coursework. This option works best for those who can manage an intensive pace and want to advance quickly.

Examples in WA:

• Eastern Washington University – M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education (Online)

Part-Time Programs

Part-time programs are designed for working educators. Students usually take one to two courses per term, finishing in 2–3 years. This format supports better work-life balance and is the most common choice among Washington teachers.

Examples in WA:

• Seattle Pacific University – M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction
• City University of Seattle – M.Ed. in Reading and Literacy

No-GRE Programs

Many Washington MEd programs waive the GRE, focusing instead on GPA, experience, and application materials. This simplifies admissions and reduces barriers for working professionals. No-GRE policies do not indicate lower academic standards.

Examples in WA:

• Eastern Washington University – M.Ed. in Library Media (Online)
• Western Washington University – M.Ed. in Language and Literacy (Online)

Accelerated Programs

Accelerated online MEd programs use condensed course blocks and year-round enrollment to shorten completion time. Students may finish in 12–15 months, but should expect a demanding workload. These programs are ideal for motivated learners ready to commit to an intensive schedule.

Examples in WA:

• Eastern Washington University – M.Ed. in Adult Education
• Eastern Washington University – M.Ed. in Career & Technical Education

Cost Breakdown: Online MEd Programs in Washington

Costs vary by institution and format, but Washington offers options across a wide price range.

• Public universities often charge lower per-credit rates
• Some schools offer flat online tuition for residents and non-residents
• Most programs require 30–45 credits

Online students typically save on commuting and campus fees. Many educators offset costs through continued employment, district reimbursement, scholarships, and financial aid.

Note: Tuition estimates above are for illustration and based on 2024-2025 data; always check the latest rates.

FAQs from Prospective Washington MEd Students

Do I need a teaching license to apply for an online MEd program in Washington?

Not always — it depends on the program.

Licensure-aligned programs (such as special education or educational leadership) often require a valid teaching certificate. Other programs, like curriculum or educational technology, may focus on academic credentials instead. Always review admissions requirements carefully.

How do internships or practicums work online?

Most online MEd programs allow you to complete field experiences locally.

Universities coordinate placements near your home for roles like administration, counseling, or library media. Initial licensure programs still require in-person student teaching, typically arranged within your region.

Will earning an MEd increase my salary in Washington?

In most cases, yes. Washington districts use salary schedules that reward advanced degrees, often moving teachers into a higher “MA” pay column. This typically results in several thousand dollars per year in base salary increases, plus eligibility for stipends or leadership roles.

What financial aid options are available for online MEd students in Washington?

Washington educators may access:

• Federal aid via the FAFSA
• University scholarships and fellowships
• PESB conditional scholarships for shortage areas
• District or union tuition reimbursement
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Combining multiple funding sources can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Are online MEd degrees respected in Washington?

Yes. Online MEd degrees from accredited, state-approved universities carry the same weight as on-campus degrees. Diplomas typically do not indicate delivery format. Districts prioritize accreditation, program quality, and licensure alignment over whether coursework was completed online.

Top Master’s in Education Online Programs in Washington