Best One-Year Master’s in Education Programs
One year master’s in education programs can help prepare students for a variety of education roles. Discover common program courses and career paths.
At BestColleges.com, we believe in providing accurate and actionable information for students. Our writers, editors, and reporters are constantly asking themselves the question, ”What information is vital to students right now?” Answering this question is what drives us. Our mission is to inform students through straightforward, factual content informed by the latest data and trends.
The freelance Integrity Network at BestColleges is comprised of seasoned professionals who bring their expertise to almost every subject relevant to college students, including admissions, college majors, financial aid, and student mental health. Network members review and author content, pulling from their first-hand industry experience and ensuring content is as accurate and up-to-date as possible.
If you're interested in joining our Integrity Network, contact us at media@bestcolleges.com. Integrity Network members typically have a graduate or terminal degree and several years of relevant professional experience.
Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.
Why Trust BestColleges
3,700+ Nonprofit, accredited colleges analyzed
6,000+ Users connected with programs every month
300+ College and university partners
40+ Expert reviewers
Learn more about our
At BestColleges.com, we believe in providing accurate and actionable information for students. Our writers, editors, and reporters are constantly asking themselves the question, ”What information is vital to students right now?” Answering this question is what drives us. Our mission is to inform students through straightforward, factual content informed by the latest data and trends.
The freelance Integrity Network at BestColleges is comprised of seasoned professionals who bring their expertise to almost every subject relevant to college students, including admissions, college majors, financial aid, and student mental health. Network members review and author content, pulling from their first-hand industry experience and ensuring content is as accurate and up-to-date as possible.
If you're interested in joining our Integrity Network, contact us at media@bestcolleges.com. Integrity Network members typically have a graduate or terminal degree and several years of relevant professional experience.
Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.
Master’s in education programs prepare students for education-related careers, often at the K-12 levels. Enrolling in one could give you more credibility and competitiveness in the job market, as well as a higher salary.
Online master’s in education curriculums vary by school but overall have similar core courses, structures, and career paths for enrollees. This page outlines the admissions process, the best one-year master’s in education programs, and the career outlook for graduates.
Featured Online Master’s in Education Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Accelerated Master’s in Education Programs
California State University-Bakersfield
Bakersfield, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$7,176
$16,680
85%
91%
$5,742
$15,246
72%
9,613
Public
Yes
$7,176
$16,680
Bakersfield, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$7,176
$16,680
85%
91%
$5,742
$15,246
72%
9,613
Public
Yes
Heritage University
Toppenish, WA4 yearCampus + Online
$9,732
$9,732
N/A
16%
$18,360
$18,360
72%
898
Private
Yes
$9,732
$9,732
Toppenish, WA4 yearCampus + Online
$9,732
$9,732
N/A
16%
$18,360
$18,360
72%
898
Private
Yes
Augustana University
Sioux Falls, SD4 yearCampus + Online
$35,716
$35,716
66%
25%
$34,934
$34,934
82%
2,086
Private
Yes
$35,716
$35,716
Sioux Falls, SD4 yearCampus + Online
$35,716
$35,716
66%
25%
$34,934
$34,934
82%
2,086
Private
Yes
Master’s in Education Degree Options
One-year master’s in education degrees may give you the option to specialize in certain educational areas. These specializations can be attached to education degrees or presented as separate master of arts programs.
- Early Childhood Education: Early childhood education promotes the development of young children. Enrollees in this specialized major will study cultural diversity, the design of childhood educational programs, and issues with these programs. Graduates with a master’s in early childhood education often design curriculums or work with children as teachers, directors, or advocates.
- Educational Administration: This major prepares you for administrative roles in the educational field. Course topics include moral and legal decisions, budgeting, and staff recruitment. Education administration students may be required to complete coursework, internship, field experiences, or a practicum.
- Elementary Education:Elementary education degrees prepare you to design effective teaching strategies and work with children. You’ll learn curriculum design, how children develop, and basic psychology. Graduates are well-suited to teaching roles in elementary or some middle schools.
- Higher Education: Higher education refers to postsecondary education, including colleges and universities. Graduates with a master’s in higher education often pursue roles in higher education institutions in roles related to academic advising, admissions, or international education. In this subject, you’ll learn about campus culture, leadership, and challenges in modern higher education. Programs aim to help students evaluate research, solutions, and theories in higher education.
- Special Education: Students earning a master’s degree with a focus on special education learn about intellectual, learning, and emotional disabilities. You’ll study current practices for supporting special needs students and related curriculum shortcomings. The program tries to support and develop enrollees’ communication and soft skills to better assist students. The curriculum covers legal policies, learning environments, and specialized teaching methods.
Career and Salary Outlook for Education
You can pursue roles ranging from teacher to corporate trainer. While graduates of master’s in education can pursue roles outside the immediate education field, you may be required to study further to qualify for these roles. Entry-level education positions do not always need internships but can be required by graduate programs.
| Education Career | Median Annual Wage (2023) |
|---|---|
| School Principal | $103,460 |
| Education Administrator | $102,610 |
| Career Counselor | $61,710 |
| High School Teacher | $65,220 |
| Librarian | $64,370 |
Frequently Asked Questions About a Master’s in Education Degree
A master’s in education can take 1-2 years, depending upon curriculum and graduation requirements. For example, programs that have fewer credit requirements and no thesis will be shorter than a similar program with an internship or thesis requirement. Students may also attend part-time programs, which will affect the length of the program.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed May 2, 2024.
Explore More College Resources
Online Master’s in Teaching Programs
Explore the most popular online master’s in teaching programs, compare options, and find the right fit for your career and personal goals.
Updated April 9, 2024
Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Programs
Make a difference in education without being in the classroom. Explore popular master’s in educational leadership online programs, what they cost and what to expect.
Updated September 9, 2024
Online Master’s in Educational Administration Programs
Online master’s in educational administration teaches students fundamental concepts and theories. Discover this program’s benefits and career paths.
Updated September 18, 2024
Other Education and teaching Resources
education and teaching
programs
careers