Master’s in K-12 Education Program Guide
If you hope to make a lasting, transformational impact on young people’s lives, a master’s in K-12 education can prepare you for administrative positions that direct positive change within a school or district.
Earning a master’s in K-12 education is a substantial investment in your professional future. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that positions for elementary and middle school principals — one of the highest-paying jobs in education — will grow 8% over the next decade. Other management-level careers in education boast even higher projected career growth. In addition to steady growth in the field, professionals with master’s degrees in K-12 education can explore a variety of career opportunities throughout their careers, especially if their master’s programs include a specialization. In the sections below, you can learn everything you need to select a graduate program that matches your educational and professional goals.
What are the best K-12 education programs of 2020? Here are our top 10:
Should I Get a Master’s in K-12 Education?
An on-campus master’s in K-12 education program may be appealing for many reasons. For example, on-campus programs usually adhere to that state’s K-12 education laws and policies, making it easier to qualify for relevant certifications and licenses. Also, professors usually have experience as administrators or teachers in that state, making them valuable resources to students. Finally, many on-campus K-12 education degree programs offer both evening and summer courses, making them a perfect option for teachers who would otherwise not have the chance to further their education.
Students who immediately begin their graduate program after earning their bachelor’s degree may also benefit from an on-campus program. The education provided by a master’s in K-12 education program goes much further than any bachelor’s program. Master’s programs typically focus on research, where students pursue in-depth research projects that culminate in a master’s thesis. Master’s programs also invite students to specialize in an area that can open new career opportunities after graduation.
What Can I Do With a Master’s in K-12 Education?
K-12 education graduate programs stress both a holistic education in K-12 best practices and the chance for students to specialize in a field. Depending on the specialization, students can continue their role as a teacher in the classroom or transfer into one of many administrative roles. Beyond administration, teachers who pursue a master’s in K-12 education are qualified to work with other groups of students, such as English-language learners or special education students. The five occupations below represent some of the most popular careers for graduates of a master’s in K-12 education.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Best States for Teachers
Teachers impact their students’ lives in fundamental, lasting ways. They help students learn how to succeed in school and beyond. Working in education not only offers the potential to affect change, it also offers a stable career with the opportunity for increased compensation over time. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that between 2014 and 2024, prospective teachers at the preschool through postsecondary level will benefit from 1.9 million job openings. The need for teachers shows no signs of slowing in the future. Between 2016 and 2026, the BLS projects as fast as average, 7%, job growth for elementary, middle, and high school teachers, while the projected job outlook for postsecondary teachers is much faster than average, at 15%.
Most people do not enter education to get rich, but in many places teachers make a respectable living, especially as they gain experience and education over time. Compensation for teachers varies based on a factors like where they teach, grade level, and experience and education. Kindergarten through high school teachers make a median annual salary between $56,900 and $59,170. Postsecondary teachers make significantly more, with a median annual salary of $76,000.
Methodology
We created this ranking of the best states for K-12 teachers to help current and prospective teachers understand where to find the best professional opportunities. Our methodology considers several factors, including average salary, public education spending per pupil, change in adjusted teacher salary over time, average pension, and cost and quality of living.
State spending on public education and teacher compensation gives an idea of how much the state values educators. States that spend more on education tend to offer better work environments and higher salaries for teachers than states that spend less on education. We hope the following list of the best states for teachers can help educators make knowledgeable decisions about where to start — or advance — their careers.
New York values education professionals. With the highest average salary for teachers and ranked as the state that spends more on education overall and per pupil than any other, New York is a great place to work as a teacher in the United States. New York pays its teachers $79,637 annually and invests heavily in education, demonstrating its commitment to creating an excellent education system.
Teachers can make more money in New York on average than in any other state. Since the state provides a higher level of funding for education than any other state, teachers may find better equipped classrooms, better prepared pupils, and more opportunities for professional development than in other states with less funding. The state seems likely to continue to treat teachers well: unlike many other states, New York's average teacher salaries have gone up over time, with an 8.9% increase in adjusted salary since 1999-2000.
Teachers in the Golden State earn an average annual income of $78,711, making California instructors the second highest paid in the nation. Wages for education professionals have stagnated or decreased in many states, but in California teachers made 15.2% more in 2016-17 than they did in 1999-2000. This increase indicates that Californians recognize the need to keep teacher wages rising and that experienced teachers likely receive increased compensation over time.
Despite offering some of the best wages in the country and spending more on public education as a whole than any other state, California faces a teacher shortage. The state especially needs special education, math, science, bilingual, and career technical teachers. The large numbers of open positions and high pay make California a good choice for both recent graduates and experienced professionals who can acquire state teaching credentials.
Teachers will find a variety of lucrative positions in the District of Columbia, which ranks second in state education spending, at $19,159 per student annually. Only New York spends more money per student each year. Not only does the District of Columbia spend extensively on its students, but education professionals receive excellent compensation.
Teacher salaries average $76,131 each year, placing the state among the top five best paying places for teachers. District of Columbia lawmakers make sure that teachers receive regular raises: between 1999-2000 and 2016-17, teacher salaries went up 12.8%. Other reasons to consider teaching in the state include its access to a wide variety of leisure activities, and diverse population. On days off, teachers can make day trips to places like New York City, Philadelphia, and Baltimore, or enjoy the numerous cultural events that happen on a regular basis.
Known for having one of the best public education systems in the U.S., Massachusetts is a rewarding and exciting place for teachers to work. Ranking in the top ten schools for spending per pupil, the state spends $15,593 on each student annually. Teachers can expect to find well-equipped schools and well-prepared students. Massachusetts public school students ranked first in the country for reading and math on the National Assessment of Educational Progress exam and first in the world for reading on the Program for International Student Assessment test.
The state's commitment to education extends to education professionals as well. Teachers in Massachusetts receive $77,804 each year for their work, making them some of the best paid teachers in the United States. Their average compensation rose 16.5% between 1999-2000 and 2016-17, indicating a continued commitment to ensuring that teachers' pay reflects hard work.
Connecticut stands out from many other states in the U.S. for its prioritization of education spending. The Constitution State ranks third for total state spending per pupil, devoting $18,958 each year per student. Only New York and District of Columbia spend more per student. Teachers in Connecticut can expect some of the highest salaries in the country, with average annual earnings of $72,561 in 2016-17.
Although Connecticut residents face higher costs of living than other parts of the country, the higher average salaries help offset high living expenses. Other benefits to pursuing a teaching career in Connecticut include the state's Teacher Education and Mentoring (TEAM) program, which provides coaching and support for beginning teachers. Living in the state offers a variety of other benefits, including its convenient location to other cities on the east coast and its beautiful scenery.
An excellent place to enter the field of education, New Jersey teachers made an average of $69,623 in 2016-17. The state's enthusiasm for educating its young people translates to its ranking as the fourth-highest-spending state in the country for per-pupil spending. New Jersey spends $18,402 on each student annually. The Garden State also offers teachers some of the highest salaries in the U.S., behind only New York, Alaska, Connecticut, and California.
New Jersey educators also benefit from a lower cost of living than can be found just across the river in New York. Yet, New Jerseyans benefit from their close proximity to New York City, with its world-class arts, culture, entertainments, and shopping. Other major cities on the east coast are also just a short drive or train ride away, including Boston and Philadelphia.
Known for its unparalleled natural beauty and wildlife, Alaska's economy relies on the fishing, oil and gas, and tourism industries. Its isolation from the rest of the lower 48 states means that internationally-recognized places like Denali National Park remain pristine. The state offers an exciting and rewarding educational environment that is supportive of teachers.
Prospective teachers can find opportunities here they would not be able to find anywhere else, including teaching in remote and rural village locations. While teaching in a remote location can come with some challenges, it often appeals to adventurous and committed education professionals. Alaska's teachers receive competitive compensation, making an average annual salary of $68,138. Also, the state's spending per pupil puts it among the top ten in the country. Alaska's teacher shortage means that prospective educators have many opportunities, particularly in high-demand areas like special education, math, and science.
Marylanders support a strong public education system. They recently demonstrated their commitment to education by passing legislation authorizing $500 million annually from casino revenues to benefit the state's public education system. The state ranked in the top 15 for state spending per pupil in 2016. Part of this support extends to ensuring Maryland educators make a competitive wage. Teachers earned an average of $66,961 in 2016-17, significantly more than the national average annual income of $58,950 for teachers.
Another example of Maryland's dedication to supporting teachers includes its commitment since the 2008-09 school year to pay a starting salary of at least $40,000 annually to every certified teacher in the state. Maryland educators also benefit from living in a state that offers convenient access to numerous cultural and recreational opportunities throughout the region.
Rhode Island teachers typically receive competitive compensation, benefit from strong, well-funded public schools, and find many open teaching positions. The 2016-17 average salary for teachers in Rhode Island ranks among the top ten highest in the U.S., at $66,477 annually. The state also claims a spot as one of the top ten biggest spenders per pupil in the country.
Prospective educators can find a wide variety of open positions in Rhode Island, as the state has teacher shortage areas in math, science, library media, music, English as a Second Language (ESL), reading specialists, bilingual teachers, school nurse teachers, and more. Recent graduates and new education professionals in particular might appreciate the potential to receive higher-than-average compensation and select from a variety of open positions. Teachers who hold a certificate from another state can easily become a teacher in Rhode Island through the state's certification reciprocity program.
Known for its beautiful scenery along the coast and mountain ranges, and hubs for culture, food, and the arts in its cities, Oregon attracts teachers and non-teachers alike for its high quality of life. The state proves itself a competitive place to work in education, ranking in the top ten for states that pay their teachers well. Although Oregon's cost of living outpaces the national average, Oregon is far behind the high cost of living found in some of the other coastal states that also offer high salaries to educators.
Teachers in Oregon make an average annual salary of $61,631 per year. Unlike in many other states, where teachers make less than they did in 1999-2000, Oregonian teachers make 1.6% more than in 2000. Teachers from a wide variety of backgrounds will appreciate the Oregon Department of Education's commitment to seeking diverse candidates, including linguistically and racially diverse educators.
How to Choose a Master’s in K-12 Education Program
Prospective students should consider a master’s in K-12 education program from multiple angles. For instance, a program can take two or three years to complete — depending on whether you study full- or part-time — so decide which learning style best suits you. Additionally, the program’s curriculum can have a significant impact on your educational experience. Programs that offer courses only during the day may not work for you if you are a full- or part-time teacher. If you must work while you take classes, consider whether an on-campus or online program is best for you. Many online programs offer lower tuition than comparable on-campus programs, along with the flexibility to complete coursework in the evenings or on weekends. Finally, keep in mind that not all programs offer specializations. Research every program on your shortlist to ensure that they provide your desired specialization.
Besides courses relevant to your future career plans, the best master’s programs include practicums or direct experiences that bolster your resume and expand your list of professional contacts. These experiences often lay the foundation for your master’s thesis. Depending on the program, you may have a choice of either writing a thesis or completing another similarly rigorous program. Requirements enforced by programmatic accreditation agencies may also influence your choice of a thesis or final project. You can learn more about programmatic accreditation in the section below.
If you select an on-campus or hybrid learning program, consider how your location directly influences your professional future. Most of these programs prepare students to earn licensure in the same state as the school resides in. You should consider programs in states that have teacher shortages, even if that requires you to move across state lines. Also, keep in mind an area’s cost of living and the salaries each state offers its teachers.
Programmatic Accreditation for Master’s in K-12 Education Programs
When researching potential K-12 education degree programs, you should ensure that your target schools hold regional accreditation. All programs should have either regional or national accreditation. When students enter a specialized academic program such as K-12 education, they should be sure their program meets the highest academic standards. Programmatic accreditation agencies specialize in different academic subjects, with experts and professionals in the field leading these organizations.
In the United States, the Council for the Education of Educator Preparation (CAEP) grants programmatic accreditation to the best K-12 education programs. When the CAEP examines a program, they focus on five standards: practical knowledge, the quality of clinical or practicum experiences, recruitment, program impact, and continuous improvement (i.e. whether the program evolves with the latest advances in teacher education). Programs that don’t have CAEP accreditation may not qualify students to apply for teacher licensure or certification.
Master’s in K-12 Education Program Admissions
The admissions process for on-campus master’s degrees is likely similar to your undergraduate program. Application requirements include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and possibly test scores. Depending on the school, the admissions department may also ask you to come in for an interview.
If you plan to complete an online program, expect similar application requirements. Online programs that use a rolling admissions process should give you their decisions must faster than most on-campus programs. Also, some online programs provide the opportunity to start classes only days after receiving an acceptance.
No matter which learning style you prefer, you should apply to three to five programs. Include one or two that you consider “reach” programs, and one to two programs that you consider “safety” programs. After you apply, check with each school’s admission department to determine if they received all of your materials.
Prerequisites
Bachelor’s degree
For all master’s programs, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree. Some schools offer programs where students can earn a bachelor’s and master’s in education, typically in five years. Most master’s in K-12 education programs accept applications from students with bachelor’s degrees unrelated to education.Professional Experience:
For the vast number of programs, students without professional experience may apply. Programs that limit applications to those with teaching experience usually offer specialized curricula to help teachers further hone their skills.Minimum GPA:
As with all graduate school admissions, the higher the undergraduate GPA, the better. For competitive programs, applicants should have a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Those with a lower GPA should expect to explain their academic performance in their application essays.
Admission Materials
Application:
Due to the specialized nature of most graduate programs, most do not use the CommonApp; expect to fill out a different application for each program. Many programs, however, ask for similar information such as your educational and professional history. Given that most programs ask for applicants to submit essays, expect the application process to take a significant amount of time.Transcripts:
As you prepare your applications, ask the college or university where you earned your bachelor’s degree to send official transcripts to the graduate schools on your shortlist. Expect to pay a small fee for each transcript you send. This process may take up to one month, so request transcripts as soon as possible.Letters of Recommendation:
Most programs require two to three letters of recommendation. If you have work experience, inquire if one or more letters can come from a work supervisor. Otherwise, ask your undergraduate professors to write your letters. Be sure to ask for letters at least two weeks before you need people to submit them.Test Scores:
Although some master’s programs do not require test scores for admission, expect most programs on your shortlist to require either GRE or MAT scores. You can take either of these tests at a local testing center. Similar to sending transcripts, you may need to pay a small fee to submit scores to graduate programs.Application Fee:
All graduate programs charge an application fee that pays for the university to consider your application. Expect to pay between $50-$65 per program. Some universities offer fee waivers to applicants who can prove financial need or have prior military service. If you need a waiver, inquire with your target school’s admission department as soon as possible.
What Else Can I Expect From a Master’s in K-12 Education Program?
In addition to core courses, your graduate program may offer multiple opportunities to enhance your educational experience and prepare you for your future career. In the sections below, you can learn more about program concentrations, exciting courses, and some important details about programmatic costs and length. Finally, you’ll learn more about licenses and certificates applicable to master’s program graduates.
| Concentration | Description | Careers |
|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership | This concentration prepares graduates for careers as school and district-level administrators. The curriculum offers courses like improving instruction and principles of organizational leadership. Graduates will have developed the interpersonal and managerial skills necessary to lead teams of teachers and support staff to help all students learn to the best of their abilities. | Vice principal, principal, instructional coordinator |
| International Baccalaureate | The International Baccalaureate (IB) program provides a rigorous, international education to students in primary and secondary school settings. Graduate students who select this concentration master essential IB teaching strategies through courses on culturally responsive instruction and educational research. Graduates go on to work at IB schools throughout the United States. | Elementary school teacher, middle school teacher, high school teacher, IB program coordinator |
| Special Education | A concentration in special education prepares graduates to work with mentally and physically disabled students. Course topics include reading interventions, responsive instruction, and in-depth instruction on the most prevalent disabilities in the school-age population. Graduates work in specialized roles that help students bridge the gap between their disabilities and the classroom. | Special education teacher, behavior intervention specialist, instructional coordinator |
| Technology for Educators | This concentration introduces teachers with classroom experience to the latest technological innovations that enhance student learning. Courses stress online teaching, leadership in educational technology, and technology curriculum. The curriculum emphasizes how graduates can integrate technology into their schools as well as their classrooms. | Elementary school teacher, middle school teacher, high school teacher, instructional technology coordinator |
| Work-Based Learning | Work-based learning programs allow high school students to gain valuable on-the-job experience while completing their education. Teachers who select this concentration master many work-based learning best practices, such as monitoring student progress and creating or modifying work-based learning programs at their high schools. | High school teacher, work-based learning coordinator |
Courses in a Master’s in K-12 Education Program
Most master’s in K-12 programs offer a similar core curriculum. The courses below represent a sample curriculum that students complete alongside courses in their concentrations.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Master’s in K-12 Education?
For full-time students, a master’s in K-12 education typically requires two years to complete. The length may vary depending on the program, however, as accelerated programs can let full-time students to earn their degrees in as little as 18 months. In either type of program, students dedicate at least one semester — possibly a year — to researching and writing their thesis. Students in master’s programs earn a total of 36-48 credits, depending on graduation requirements and their concentrations.
Many students pursuing their master’s in education program may work full- or part-time as teachers, and many programs offer a specialized part-time track to help students reach their educational goals. Part-time students, for instance, may take up to three years to graduate. Additionally, if these students teach or work at a school, they can fulfill their programs’ practicum or internship requirements at work. Policies vary between programs, so prospective students who teach should inquire with their target school’s before applying. Also, keep in mind that part-time students often spend more on tuition than full-time students. In the section below, you can learn more about tuition and how studying full-time can help you save money.
How Much Is a Master’s in K-12 Education?
Although tuition rates vary between schools, prospective students should expect to spend approximately $10,000 a year for their master’s degrees if they attend in-state public universities. Tuition for out-of-state-students, meanwhile, can reach $30,000 a year, and at the best private universities, students can expect to pay more than $40,000 annually. Keep in mind that you’ll incur other costs while earning a degree: student fees, textbooks, technology, and daycare for young children all add up, and potentially double your expenses. As you research master’s programs, investigate potential funding sources such as scholarships, grants, and federally backed loans.
Full-time students often spend less on tuition than part-time students. Most universities charge full-time students a flat tuition rate; if they decide to take a heavier course load one semester, their tuition does not increase. Part-time students, on the other hand, often pay tuition based on the number of credits they attempt each term. As long as they remain part-time students, more credits equate to higher tuition. Consequently, it pays to study full-time, especially if you do not have any significant obligations outside the classroom.
Certifications and Licenses a Master’s in K-12 Education Prepares For
Resources for K-12 Education Graduate Students
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
The FAFSA helps undergraduate and graduate students earn federally backed financial aid. If students qualify for need-based aid, the FAFSA provides them with relevant loans, grants, and work-study programs.
U.S. News and World Report
U.S. News and World Report boasts extensive information on the nation’s best graduate programs for K-12 education. Subscribers gain access to in-depth descriptions of universities’ programs, enrollment, and the career outcomes of graduates.
Grad Resources
Grad Resources connects struggling graduate students to a network of expert mentors. The organization also provides free articles on several relevant topics, including navigating finances, time management, and staying healthy.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Compiled by teach.org, this page includes up-to-date information on the latest scholarships exclusive to students earning their K-12 education degrees. Visitors can search by funding type, education stage, and area of study.
Inside Higher Ed
Inside Higher Ed boasts multiple free articles applicable to students earning their advanced degrees in education. The website includes resources on navigating graduate school and how to transition from student to teacher.
Professional Organizations in K-12 Education
Professional organizations in K-12 education advocate on behalf of education professionals and help members advance their careers. The organizations below represent millions of professionals throughout the United States. When members join, they gain access to exclusive benefits, such as job boards, mentoring, professional insurance, and continuing education opportunities. Consider joining one or more organizations during your graduate education, as they prepare you for the transition between your education and your career.
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