Master’s in Education Online Programs
Master’s in Education Online Programs
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As the educational landscape evolves with new technology, innovative instructional methods and changing student needs, educators must stay ahead. GCU’s master’s in education online programs1 may open doors to new opportunities in teaching, leadership and curriculum development. Whether you’re interested in classroom teaching, special education, instructional design or educational leadership, a master’s degree can provide the advanced skills and confidence to help make a lasting impact across educational settings.
Our online1 Master of Education degrees provide flexible pathways to certification and advanced expertise, whether you're entering the classroom for the first time or expanding your impact as an educator. Designed to match the rigor and quality of our on-campus degrees, these programs connect you with experienced faculty and a diverse community of peers, helping to empower you with the skills, knowledge and support for today’s educational environments.
We offer both licensure and non-licensure master's in education online programs to support various career goals in education. Our licensure programs are designed for individuals seeking initial teaching licensure. They align with state requirements and provide a structured path to becoming a licensed educator, which is an essential step for teaching in public schools.
Our non-licensure programs are ideal for those who already hold a valid teaching license or are pursuing roles in education that don’t require certification. These programs focus on deepening your expertise in specialized subject areas, leadership and curriculum design.
Explore master’s programs that prepare you to support young learners from early childhood through elementary education. Develop skills in child development, reading instruction and family engagement, or focus on effective teaching strategies and classroom leadership for K–8 students. Choose from licensure and non-licensure options to align with your career goals.
Our master’s in education with a secondary education emphasis can equip you to teach in middle and high school settings. With specializations in STEM and humanities, you can tailor your degree to match your certification needs and teaching goals.
Support K-12 students in their social, emotional and academic development with a master’s in school counseling. This program leads to initial licensure and allows graduates the opportunity to seek certification. The coursework covers topics such as theories of counseling, child development, developmental disabilities and research methods.
Develop your skills in school leadership with GCU’s master’s programs in educational administration and leadership. These degrees offer specialized tracks, including Christian education and school finance for a variety of K–12 settings.
If you're passionate about making an impact in the lives of students with exceptionalities, our master’s programs in special education are designed to help you become a compassionate, skilled advocate for creating welcoming learning environments.
A master’s degree in education online1 can prepare you for several careers across education, from teaching in the classroom, advising students as a school counselor or leading educators as a principal.
A master’s in education, paired with teaching licensure, can support your path to becoming a:
Preschool teacher
Kindergarten teacher
Elementary school teacher
Secondary school teacher
Teaching assistant
Special education teacher
Education and childcare administrator
Elementary, middle and high school principal
Educational, guidance and career counselor and advisor
Median annual wage for elementary, middle and high school principals in May 20242
New jobs expected to open for elementary, middle and high school principals each year, on average, from 2024 to 20343
Explore our frequently asked questions to learn more about GCU’s online master's programs in education.
An online1 MEd degree may be a worthwhile investment for those wanting to deepen their expertise in education. A master’s degree may also lead to higher earning potential, as the National Center for Education Statistics found that having a master’s degree may lead to better pay for teachers, even when they’ve been teaching just as long as those with a bachelor’s degree.4
There are many options for master’s in education degrees depending on your academic and career goals. When deciding what degree is best for you, think about what grade level and subject you’d like to teach, as well as any other specializations you’d like to focus on, such as special education. It is also important to consider whether you need to complete a licensure program.
Online Master of Education degrees can prepare you with strategies to personalize instruction, foster welcoming learning environments and support meaningful growth for all students, whether you're working in classrooms, online settings or other educational settings.
GCU’s College of Education designs its master’s programs to align with rigorous benchmarks set by the Higher Learning Commission, national accreditors and professional organizations. Our master’s in education online programs are built to develop credible, qualified professionals ready to make a lasting impact in diverse educational settings. Rooted in a Christian worldview, GCU’s programs emphasize ethical leadership, service and a commitment to investing in the next generation.
Admission requirements for GCU’s online1 Master of Education degrees can vary based on the degree and format. To find the exact criteria for your chosen program, visit our graduate school admission page.
GCU has proudly maintained institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission since 1968, a testament to our long-standing dedication to academic excellence. In addition, select education programs are programmatically accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), ensuring they meet rigorous standards for preparing effective educators.
Our online master's degree programs in education at GCU offer greater flexibility while helping you stay connected to a supportive academic community. Through our interactive Learning Management System, you’ll collaborate with peers and professors on projects and discussions.
"I knew that going back to school to become a leader would help to be able to support teachers within my school. Grand Canyon University has helped me find my purpose by supporting and empowering me."
"I knew that going back to school to become a leader would help to be able to support teachers within my school. Grand Canyon University has helped me find my purpose by supporting and empowering me."
As an online student, you’ll have access to helpful tools like eBooks, calendar reminders and reliable technical support. Plus, dedicated student services counselors are available to support you every step of the way throughout your academic journey.
Equip yourself with innovative strategies and tools for today’s evolving educational landscape with a master’s in education from GCU.
Visit the "State Disclosures" section on the page of the program you’re interested in at gcu.edu for details on state restrictions.
Excluding observational and practice-based experiences, and student teaching.