What is the best master’s in education degree to get?

If you are a current or aspiring educator, GCU has master’s-level initial programs that can lead to licensure and programs that do not lead to licensure. Both options may open doors to additional opportunities within your career. The top pursued master’s degrees in education are Educational Leadership or Administration, Curriculum and Instruction, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, School Counseling and Educational Technology.1

Are master’s degrees for teachers worth it?

The increased knowledge earned from a master’s in education degree may benefit you for the rest of your career.2 Studying subjects related to educational theories of learning, cultural perspectives, historically underserved students, trends in assessments or brain psychology may help prepare you with more confidence in your job and in the classroom.

How long are master’s in teaching programs?

Master's in teaching programs vary in length depending on factors such as the specific program structure, the institution offering the degree and whether you're studying full-time or part-time. GCU prides itself on being transfer-friendly, acknowledging and valuing prior learning credits that may integrate into your academic journey, potentially shortening the path to graduation. An education master’s degree may be worth your time and effort as it can help you position yourself for a possible leadership position in education.3

Education Master’s Programs

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Overview

Expand Your Teaching Foundations With Graduate Study

Grand Canyon University is here to support your calling to serve your students. You can improve and expand your competencies in education or begin your journey toward licensure with GCU’s education master’s programs. Our advanced programs for continuing education teach current educators new skills, including classroom management and innovative teaching methods for welcoming classrooms.

For those who already have a degree in a field other than education, but are seeking licensure, we have initial programs that lead to licensure and programs that do not lead to licensure. Those who decide to pursue a non-licensing program have typically earned their licensing after completing their bachelor’s program. In either pathway, you have the opportunity to gain a rich foundation in learning, leading and serving from our College of Education.

Most Education Degrees

According to 2023-24 IPEDS data, Grand Canyon University has awarded more education degrees than any other institution in Arizona.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Initial Teacher Licensure Scholarship

25% Off Tuition Online Master of Education Programs^{(See disclaimer ◊◊)}

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Programs

Master’s Programs in Education That Support Your Goals

GCU provides a wide range of practice-focused education master’s degrees that are designed to help you reach your career goals in education. From early childhood education degrees to teaching degrees for elementary and secondary education, we invite you to reflect on your career goals and choose a program that's right for you.

Choose from the following types of master’s programs in education:

Master of Arts Degrees

Master of Education (MEd) Degrees

Master of Science Degrees

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Degree Type:Master

Area of Interest:Teaching

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

These questions provide guidance on pursuing a master’s degree in teaching and other education programs, helping you plan your career path in the field of academia.

What is the difference between licensure and non-licensure teaching programs?

A licensure teaching degree is designed for students seeking teaching licensure or certification after graduation, whereas a non-licensure teaching degree does not prepare students for seeking licensure and is designed for those who either do not need licensure or have already completed licensure requirements.

GCU offers both initial teacher licensure (ITL) and non-licensure programs (NITL) in a variety of specializations. Our licensure programs teach a comprehensive curriculum covering pedagogy, classroom management and in-depth subject-specific knowledge, and they include a student teaching experience. Our non-licensure programs provide specialized knowledge in educational theory, research and practice.

Are master’s programs in education worth it?

What should I get my master’s in as a current teacher?

When considering a master's degree as a current teacher, it's important to reflect on your personal interests and career aspirations. You might consider exploring various facets of education, including educational leadership, special education, curriculum design, educational technology integration and expertise in specific subject areas. Each of these areas can offer avenues for you to position yourself for professional growth and impact within the school environment.

Why GCU

Strengthen Your Teaching Practice Through Quality Learning

GCU’s deep roots as a teaching college position us to offer practice-focused master’s degrees in education that explore both time-tested educational theories and practices in areas such as instructional design, as well as emerging issues in the field, such as legal and ethical considerations.

Here, we aim to provide a comprehensive education to our fellow educators, with an emphasis on servant leadership and global perspectives. Our L.E.A.P. to Teach programs, including our elementary education graduate certificate and secondary education graduate certificate, offer immersive learning experiences for both traditional teacher candidates and those seeking alternative pathways to licensure.

Flexible Online Learning

Advance your education in a way that is convenient for you. GCU offers a variety of modalities to help you earn your master's degree for teachers. Choose from online^{(See disclaimer 2)} degrees for convenience and flexibility or study in a face-to-face format through evening classes when available. Whatever modality you choose, you have the opportunity to receive a quality education from knowledgeable faculty while benefiting from peer interactions.

AAQEP-Accredited Teaching Degrees

Many of our master’s degrees in education have attained programmatic accreditation from the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP). The College of Education and the AAQEP aim to strengthen teacher preparation programs and professional development through rigorous curriculum standards and hands-on experiences. GCU prioritizes our commitment to excellence and educational standards.

Additionally, GCU is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Since 1968, this credential has reflected our commitment to providing a quality education to our students.

Continuing Professional Education

Our master’s programs in education are ideal for educators who are committed to their professional development. Advance your skills in pedagogy, strategic curriculum design and learning theory, or build a new foundation for switching careers to education. You might also earn a master’s degree in education if you’re interested in teaching at the postsecondary level. Please note: A doctoral degree is a common requirement for teaching at two- and four-year colleges and universities.^{(See disclaimer 3)}

Scholarship Opportunities

Grow Your Impact in Education Today

Earn your licensure or non-licensure master’s degree in teaching at GCU and prepare to make a positive impact on the classroom. Apply today at GCU.

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If you are seeking licensure/certification, please refer to the "Accreditation and Compliance/State Disclosures” link for the specific program of interest’s website for your location and/or employment state’s licensure requirements, per 34 CFR 668.14(b)32 and 668.43(c).

^{(See disclaimer ¬)} MOU 10134 & 10135: This scholarship is only valid for those applicants who are participating in a GCU College of Education or secondary education emphasis master’s degree program, offered online, and who submit a completed application to start their program on or before December 31, 2026. If you enroll in a master’s degree program through any of the College of Education or secondary education emphasis degree programs offered online, Grand Canyon University will offer you 18% off the tuition per course for your program. This scholarship will be applied at the same time the tuition charges occur. This scholarship cannot be used in conjunction with any other GCU scholarships/awards. This scholarship will be applied toward your tuition only and does not include fees (i.e., Canyon Connect, Technology, etc.).

^{(See disclaimer ◊◊)} MOU 9237: This scholarship is only valid for applicants who are currently working for an accredited school or district, seeking initial teacher licensure, not already a licensed teacher and applying for one of the following Master of Education programs: Early Childhood Education, Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education, Elementary Education, Elementary Education and Special Education, Secondary Education (any emphasis), Special Education (any emphasis). This scholarship cannot be used in conjunction with any other GCU scholarships. This scholarship will be applied toward your tuition only, and you will not receive funds in excess of your charges.

Based on 2023-24 Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) data retrieved from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Navigator in December 2025. 
Excluding observational and practice-based experiences and student teaching.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, Aug. 28). How to Become a Postsecondary Teacher. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved January 2026.