Best Online Master's Degrees in Educational Technology
Learn about online educational technology master's degree programs, including common coursework, admission requirements, and cost. Then, explore educational technology careers.
Best Online Educational Technology Master's Programs
Online educational technology master's degree programs are for current or aspiring teachers who want to expand their skills in technology and teaching. Below, we've put together a list of the top programs of this type, taking into account affordability, flexibility, and unique program features.
1. Concordia University-Saint Paul
| Location | Graduate Tuition & Fees (in-state) |
|---|---|
| Saint Paul, MN | $8,550 |
Concordia University-Saint Paul is home to an online Master of Arts (MA) in Educational Technology degree program that requires 30 total credits and includes the study of such topics as virtual classrooms, diversity in education, and classroom technologies. Students participate in a field experience centered on course development and can choose an optional study aboard course as well. After completion of the program, students earn both their MA and a valuable technology certificate. Concordia University-Saint Paul has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and the College of Education & Science's teacher preparation programs are fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
2. University of Kentucky
| Location | Graduate Tuition & Fees (in-state) |
|---|---|
| Lexington, KY | $13,052 |
The University of Kentucky offers an online Teacher Leadership degree program that can lead to either a Master of Education (MEd) or Specialist in Education (EdS) degree and can help current Kentucky teachers add a teacher leadership endorsement or achieve a rank change. Along with their master's degree, students are also able to earn a certificate in school technology leadership that includes coursework in school program improvement and digital citizenship. Also available at this university is an online Master of Science (MS) in Instructional Systems Design degree program that keeps working professionals in mind with short, 8-week classes and 3 start dates each year. Students can also earn a distance education certificate and choose concentrations in community engagement or advanced statistical analysis. Both of these online master's programs come in at $685 per credit, and the College of Education is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).
3. Indiana University-Bloomington
| Location | Graduate Tuition & Fees (in-state) |
|---|---|
| Bloomington, IN | $10,564 |
Indiana University-Bloomington's Master of Science in Education (MSEd) in Instructional Systems Technology degree program requires 36 credits and can be completed in a 100% online format with no in-person requirements. This online program has a special emphasis on the design, evaluation, and development of instructional materials and prepares students for careers as online learning specialists and technology coordinators. The Indiana University School of Education, which houses the online MSEd program, is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and is a member of the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE). The online MSEd program is also reasonable at $433.60 per credit for Indiana residents and $520.32 for non-residents.
4. Stockton University
| Location | Graduate Tuition & Fees (in-state) |
|---|---|
| Galloway, NJ | $14,602 |
The online Master of Arts in Instructional Technology degree program at Stockton University requires 33 credits, including coursework, a capstone, and an optional internship. Students take a range of classes that cover instructional design, e-learning, and web design, and most classes sessions are synchronous, allowing students to interact with their professors and peers. This online program also features a cohort model that allows students to move through the program with the same group of peers and build important professional relationships. All students in this program, regardless of their residency status, pay $650 per credit.
5. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
| Location | Graduate Tuition & Fees (in-state) |
|---|---|
| Winona, MN | $9,000 |
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota has an online 30-credit Master of Education (MEd) in Learning Design and Technology degree program that can be completed in only 20 months. This online program features asynchronous classes, which means students don't need to be online at a specific time. With a curriculum designed by higher education and K-12 administrators as well leading technology partners, class topics include educational psychology theory, assessment strategies, and current learning technologies. This MEd program has a low tuition rate of $540 per credit, and included in that price is an iPad, which is issued to every online student at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota.
| Rank | School Name | Location | Graduate Tuition & Fees (in-state) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | University of Maine | Orono, ME | $9,106 |
| 7 | Auburn University | Auburn, AL | $11,282 |
| 8 | Miami University-Oxford | Oxford, OH | $14,088 |
| 9 | Texas A & M University-College Station | College Station, TX | $9,812 |
| 10 | Michigan State University | East Lansing, MI | $18,132 |
| 11 | East Carolina University | Greenville, NC | $7,485 |
| 12 | Saint Joseph's University | Philadelphia, PA | $16,992 |
| 13 | University of Southern Mississippi | Hattiesburg, MS | $,8,624 |
| 14 | University of South Dakota | Vermillion, SD | $6,835 |
| 15 | University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus | Norman, OK | $,8,577 |
| 16 | University of Northern Iowa | Cedar Falls, IA | $10,432 |
| 17 | University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ | $13,044 |
| 18 | Pittsburg State University | Pittsburg, KS | $8,164 |
| 19 | Salem State University | Salem, MA | $8,188 |
| 20 | Georgia College & State University | Milledgeville, GA | $7,206 |
| 21 | University of Arkansas | Fayetteville, AR | $8,612 |
| 22 | Kent State University at Kent | Kent, OH | $11,536 |
| 23 | Wisconsin Lutheran College | Milwaukee, WI | $9,810 |
| 24 | Appalachian State University | Boone, NC | $7,961 |
| 25 | Missouri State University-Springfield | Springfield, MO | $6,038 |
| 26 | Grand Valley State University | Allendale, MI | $16,693 |
| 27 | Utah State University | Logan, UT | $6,790 |
| 28 | West Virginia University | Morgantown, WV | $9,990 |
| 29 | Fort Hays State University | Hays, KS | $4,266 |
| 30 | Canisius College | Buffalo, NY | $15,480 |
| 31 | Fontbonne University | Saint Louis, MO | $13,896 |
| 32 | University of Sioux Falls | Sioux Falls, SD | $6,930 |
| 33 | Western Kentucky University | Bowling Green, KY | $12,140 |
| 34 | DeSales University | Center Valley, PA | $20,160 |
| 35 | Quinnipiac University | Hamden, CT | $19,350 |
| 36 | Duquesne University | Pittsburgh, PA | $23,112 |
| 37 | University of North Dakota | Grand Forks, ND | $9,697 |
| 38 | Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville | Edwardsville, IL | $9,030 |
| 39 | University of Central Missouri | Warrensburg, MO | $8,067 |
| 40 | University of North Carolina Wilmington | Wilmington, NC | $7,367 |
| 41 | Oklahoma State University | Stillwater, OK | $8,460 |
| 42 | University of Central Arkansas | Conway, AR | $6,238 |
| 43 | University of Toledo | Toledo, OH | $15,427 |
| 44 | University of Northern Colorado | Greeley, CO | $12,444 |
| 45 | Plymouth State University | Plymouth, NH | $10,134 |
| 46 | University of Georgia | Athens, GA | $10,982 |
| 47 | Harding University | Searcy, AR | $18,260 |
| 48 | Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania | Slippery Rock, PA | $16,387 |
| 49 | Fairfield University | Fairfield, CT | $17,415 |
| 50 | Dakota State University | Fargo, SD | $7,487 |
All statistics provided by the National Center for Education Statistics, tuition based on 2018-2019 school year
Learn.org's school ranking methodology categorizes and assesses data from schools and other reliable sources, such as the U.S. Department of Education, and weighs the information based on quality, cost, value and other factors critical to students' academic decisions.
Overview of Online Educational Technology Master's Programs
Educational technology connects the fields of teaching and technology in order to explore, analyze, and develop technology-focused learning applications, materials, and methods. There are several types of online master's degrees in educational technology, including Master of Education and Master of Arts degrees in:
- Educational Technology
- Instructional Technology
- Learning Design and Technology
- Instructional Systems Design
Typically, online educational technology programs involve around 30 to 33 credits. Along with coursework, most programs also require a final research capstone project or the creation of a professional portfolio. Depending on the program, classes may be synchronous, which require students to be online at specific time for online classes, or asynchronous, which means students can complete their coursework on their own time.
Most online master's degrees in educational technology do not lead to licensure. However, some programs allow current teachers to earn additional certificates or teaching endorsements.
Prerequisites for Online Educational Technology Master's Programs
To apply to an online educational technology master's program, you must already hold a bachelor's degree. Generally, there is no requirement as to the type of degree but some programs prefer an education-focused undergraduate degree. Additionally, the majority of programs require that you have an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0; however, some programs may only require a 2.75 GPA.
You will also need to submit the following materials:
- Application and fee
- Transcripts
- Resume or CV
- Statement of Purpose
- Letters of recommendation
A limited number of programs also require GRE scores but may offer GRE waivers if you meet certain criteria, such as having a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA and work experience.
Length of Online Educational Technology Master's Programs
Online educational technology master's programs can be completed in 2 years when attending full-time. However, if you are only attending part-time, it may take around 3 to 4 years to earn your degree. Additionally, some educational technology programs are designed to be completed in less than 2 years with some programs allowing you to earn your degree in about 20 months.
Cost of Online Educational Technology Master's Degree
Online educational technology master's degrees usually calculate tuition on a per-credit basis; however, some may have a semester rate tuition structure. Typically, these types of programs range from $540 to $900 per credit. However, in-state students can sometimes receive a lower tuition rate and pay less compared to their out-of-state peers.
Most universities, but not all, charge additional fees on top of the base tuition price, which could include distance education, technology, and library fees that range from $10 to $100. To get a sense of the total cost of your educational technology degree, you can ask your university or prospective program for a breakdown of the cost that includes tuition and fees. Also, make sure you're factoring in costs outside of tuition, such as textbooks, software, and other technologies you will need for online learning.
Common Courses in Online Educational Technology Master's Programs
Educational technology master's programs generally include the study of a range of teaching, learning, technology, research, and instructional topics. Although exact coursework varies by program, here we'll look at some common course subjects that are found in educational technology programs.
Foundations of Educational Technology
This is a foundational course that introduces new graduate students to the educational technology field, including its history and most important issues, theories, and current trends. Students read and analyze educational technology literature and become familiar with instructional theory and materials.
Instructional Design
In this class, students study the instructional developmental process for designing technology-focused teaching materials. Specific topics that are covered include task and need analysis, objectives, learner characteristics, and assessment strategies.
Distance Teaching and Learning
This class provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to teach or play an administrative function in online learning environments. Usually, there is an emphasis on different learning technologies as well as how to apply those technologies to the classroom. Some courses also focus on the theories behind distance learning and teaching.
Curriculum and Instruction
Students study models for curriculum design and also learn effective instructional strategies and methods that they can apply to a diverse set of students and environments.
Multimedia Educational Materials
A course of this type explores the application of multimedia technologies for instruction. Students also study how to develop and implement multimedia materials, such as graphic design and web design, as well as designing educational software and hardware.
Technology and K-12 Classrooms
This is a class that focuses on teaching educators how to use technology and the internet in K-12 classroom instruction. Along with developing practical technology skills, students also learn how to find and assess educational technologies.
Master of Education vs Master of Arts or Master of Science
Educational technology master's degrees can lead to a Master of Education, Master of Arts, or Master of Science in Education degree. There are some subtle differences between these degrees, even though each degree focuses on educational technology and has a similar curriculum. A Master of Education is a practice-based degree that is usually, but not always, designed for current, licensed teachers who want to specialize in one field of teaching, such as educational technology, and study pedagogy and teaching strategies. Master of Education programs typically prepare students for leadership or administration careers outside of the classroom.
On the other hand, Master of Arts and Master of Science degrees are academic-centered degrees that are designed for non-licensed and licensed teachers alike and feature coursework within one discipline, such as educational technology, along with limited courses on teaching and learning. Master of Arts and Master of Science degrees often prepare students for further doctoral work or careers in higher education or K-12.
Career Options Educational Technology Master's Degree
With a master's degree in educational technology, you will be able to pursue a career in education with a focus on technology, including as an instructional coordinator or as a teacher.
Instructional Coordinator
Instructional coordinators design and implement new curriculums. With an educational technology degree, you can specialize in developing technology-based curriculums or could train teachers in the use of technology in the classroom. Instructional coordinators create curriculums by assessing student data, observing teachers, and reviewing educational materials.
Teacher
A master's degree in educational technology also opens up the door for a career as an elementary, middle, or high school teacher. An educational technology master's degree can enhance your technology-focused teaching skills and knowledge within a subject area other than technology, such as science or math, or could prepare you to become a technology teacher. As a teacher, you must manage a classroom, grade assignments, prepare students for standardized exams, and interact with parents and administrators.
| Job Title | Median Annual Salary (2019) | Estimated Job Growth (2018-2028) |
|---|---|---|
| Instructional Coordinators | $66,290 | 6% |
| Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers | $59,420 | 3% |
| Middle School Teachers | $59,660 | 3% |
| High School Teachers | $61,660 | 4% |
Salary information provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2019
Professional Educational Technology Organizations
There are several organizations in the field of educational technology that work to promote the use of technology in the classroom and offer a wealth of resources to educators of all kinds.
International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE)
ISTE is an association that promotes the use of innovative technology in education. This organization produces a number of magazines and journals in the field, offers academies and learning opportunities, and hold an annual conference. As a paid ISTE member, you get access to exclusive learning networks, educational articles and webinars, and networking opportunities.
CoSN (the Consortium for School Networking)
CoSN is an organization dedicated to providing technology educators and professionals with knowledge, community, and professional resources. Along with continuing education classes and a resource library, CoSN also holds an annual conference and professional development clinics throughout the year. CoSN offers membership opportunities to industry partners and school districts.
Professional Educational Technology Certification
CoSN offers the only practice-based educational technology certification in the field, the Certified Education Technology Leader (CETL) credential, which is for educators who want to demonstrate that they have mastered a range of educational technology skills and knowledge. To earn the CETL credential, you must hold a bachelor's degree, have 4 years of educational technology experience, and must pass the CETL exam, which includes the content areas of leadership and vision, understanding educational environments, and managing technology support resources.