Earn a Online Master's in Educational Assessment
Earning a master's in educational assessment online can increase your opportunity for career advancement while you engage in meaningful work improving student learning. A master's of educational assessment can benefit both experienced education professionals and individuals from other fields looking for a career change.
Just as job titles in this field tend to vary, educational assessment master's programs adopt a variety of different names. Many degrees that focus on using data to evaluate teaching and learning are in the education field; some psychology programs also include a focus on educational assessment. In other cases, schools offer a standalone master's or graduate certificate in this field. For example, universities may offer an M.Ed. in evaluation and measurement, while other programs provide a master's in education in curriculum development and assessment. Some of the most common master's degrees for students interested in a career in educational assessment include:
- M.Ed. in educational assessment
- MA in educational measurement and statistics
- MS in educational psychology with a concentration in assessment, evaluation, and testing
- M.Ed. in measurement and statistics
- M.Ed. in measurement and evaluation
- MA in evaluation, measurement, and research
Read on to find out what to expect from a master's in educational assessment online program, including the courses you will take, typical master's in educational assessment jobs you can apply for after graduation, and paying for your degree. We also include a list of scholarships for students in educational assessment master's programs.
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What Can I Learn in an Online Master's in Educational Assessment Program?
Educational assessment master's programs provide a deeper knowledge of using research and data to improve student learning through policy changes. Learners gain skills in designing effective tests, evaluating data, managing databases, writing reports, and making policy recommendations. They also develop leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. Students often can gain relevant work experience through internships and practicum projects.
Online and on-campus master's of educational assessment programs often include the same requirements, curricula, and instructors. In some cases, on-campus educational assessment programs may be more likely to require an internship or other in-person professional experience than their online counterparts.
The skills students gain in an online master's in educational assessment program prepare them to work in varied settings, including school districts and public schools, higher education, government agencies, and for-profit and nonprofit organizations.
What Courses Are Offered in a Master's in Educational Assessment Program?
Specific course offerings and titles vary by program and school, but most master's in educational assessment programs cover some common courses and topics. See below for a sample curriculum.
Educational Research
Students receive an introduction to the theory, practice, and history of educational research. The course explores both quantitative and qualitative methods of inquiry, especially those most commonly used in research in education. This course provides a foundational understanding of the field.Program Evaluation
This class looks at the theory and practice of program evaluation, including techniques for investigating educational projects, processes, programs, and products. Students learn how to assess projects to enhance school curricula and improve organizational performance, along with explore other quality improvement measures.Educational Statistics
The educational statistics class covers topics such as correlation, linear regression, distribution, variability, significance testing, central tendency, and chi-square analysis. Students learn to use statistical procedures in educational research situations that happen in the real world.Learning Theories and Applications
This course explores some of the most important theories and applications currently used in the educational assessment field. Students explore educational models and practices.Applied Measurement
The applied measurement course includes an overview of practices and concepts of survey research and measurement. Students learn about creating and administering questionnaires and tests, interpreting test scores, and the importance of evidence for reliability and validity.
What Exams or Projects Should I Expect?
Most educational assessment master's programs do not require specific exams, although some courses often include tests. This field does not require students to pass a specific exam to find employment.
A common requirement of an educational assessment master's program is a capstone or practicum research project or thesis. Capstone and practicum projects usually take one semester to complete and involve fieldwork in an educational setting. A thesis may take longer, including research, writing, fieldwork, and an oral defense.
How Much Can I Make With a Career in Educational Assessment
The typical master's in educational assessment salary varies depending on the type of career you pursue after graduation. Salaries also fluctuate based on work experience, geographic location, and employer type. The table below provides a general idea of how much professionals in education assessment might earn.
Instructional Coordinators
Instructional coordinators, or curriculum specialists, manage teaching standards and school programs. They help create, implement, and assess instructional materials and programs. Instructional coordinators also analyze test data, suggest educational materials, and train teachers to use new programs or content. Most entry-level instructional coordinator positions require at least a master's degree.
- Median Annual Salary: $64,450
- Job Growth 2018-2028: 6%
High School Teachers
High school teachers provide instruction to students to help them get jobs or get into college after graduation. They need at least a bachelor's degree, but high school teachers who hold a master's often earn a high salary and face better job prospects. All states require public school teachers to also hold a valid teaching license.
- Median Annual Salary: $60,320
- Job Growth 2018-2028: 4%
Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals
Elementary, middle, and high school principals typically need at least a master's degree. They oversee school operations, including curriculum coordination, staff management, and the creation of productive and safe learning environments for students. Their specific duties vary considerably depending on the size of their district and school.
- Median Annual Salary: $95,310
- Job Growth 2018-2028: 4%
Online Master's in Educational Assessment Program Accreditation
Since online master's in educational assessment programs boast different names, there is not one specific accrediting body to look for in this field. Students pursuing an M.Ed. in educational assessment should look for programs accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. MA or MS programs in educational assessment often do not hold programmatic accreditation.
How to Pay for a Master's in Educational Assessment Degree
Students can pursue many funding sources to pay for an MS/MA in educational assessment. In addition to personal savings and student loans, learners can consider grants, scholarships, employer assistance, research assistantships, and fellowships.
- Student Loans:
Many students earning a master's in educational assessment fund their degree by taking out federal student loans. Make sure to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to determine your eligibility. - Fellowships:
Educational assessment students may earn fellowships to help subsidize the cost of their degree. A fellowship typically includes a stipend and allows the recipient to work on a project relevant to the educational assessment field. - Employer Tuition Assistance:
Many employers, including some school districts, will help pay for their employees to earn a graduate degree. Some employers will pay for any type of program, while others will only cover classes relevant to the employee's position.
Scholarships for Master's in Educational Assessment Students| Scholarships | Amount | Who Can Apply | Apply |
|---|
| The Weaver Fellowship | $5,000-$15,000 | Each year, 15 graduate students receive this fellowship for pursuing advanced studies in the social sciences or humanities. Applicants must plan to teach at the college level. | Apply for Scholarship |
| TEACH Grant Program | Up to $4,000 a year | Applicants must be students in eligible programs at schools that participate in the TEACH Grant Program. Recipients must agree to teach in a high-need field for at least four years after graduation. | Apply for Scholarship |
| Gates Millennium Scholars Program | Varies | This program reduces financial barriers for minority students. Graduate students in education can apply for the award, which covers unmet financial need. | Apply for Scholarship |
| ICPSR Summer Program in Quantitative Methods of Social Research | Pays for summer program fees | This scholarship allows the recipient to attend the ICPSR Summer Program in Quantitative Methods of Social Research. Applicants must be students interested in education research. | Apply for Scholarship |
| Pi Lambda Theta Student Support Scholarships | $2,000 | Pi Lambda Theta awards these scholarships to graduate education students. Applicants must submit official transcripts, a personal statement, a letter of recommendation, and a description of extracurricular activities. | Apply for Scholarship |
Professional Organizations and Resources
Students in master's in educational assessment online programs can find valuable opportunities through membership in professional organizations. The educational assessment field also offers many professional resources students and recent graduates can utilize.
AERA promotes the advancement of knowledge about education. The organization also advocates for federal funding of education research. Members can participate in the AERA fellowship program.
The Assessment Network offers resources to educational assessment professionals, including information about best practices, readings, and a blog. The organization promotes balanced assessment.
AALHE promotes assessment for learning. The group organizes an annual conference, webinars, twitter chats, and an assessment book club. Members can also access a nationwide job bank.
A professional organization for people with careers in educational measurement, NCME members gain networking opportunities at meetings and events. They also qualify for awards and receive access to publications and industry news.
NEA represents public education workers and advances the cause of public education in the U.S. Members benefit from the group's advocacy efforts and receive access to its resources and tools.
Online Master's in Educational Assessment Programs 2022
#1 Online Master’s In Educational Assessment
University of Illinois at Chicago
- Chicago, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Illinois at Chicago educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers on campus and online. Busy learners can enroll in online master's programs from the public institution. Students who aspire to careers in educational assessment can enroll in the flexible M.Ed. in measurement, evaluation, statistics, and assessment program.
Master's students begin the online program by completing core courses that explore important educational assessment principles. The program also includes advanced educational assessment classes and electives, which allow degree-seekers to tailor the curriculum to their interests. In addition to classes, the program offers faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities.
A master's in educational assessment often leads to leadership roles and increased earning potential. During their master's studies and after graduation, individuals can receive support from faculty advisors and career counselors.
Online learners at the school pay a per-credit tuition rate averaging $750. Degree-seekers with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. Learners can also use scholarships and fellowships to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. According to the school, 78% of students receive financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
24%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Online Master’s In Educational Assessment
Kent State University
- Kent, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A graduate degree from Kent State University helps professionals advance their careers and pursue new opportunities. The accredited master's in research, measurement, and statistics provides advanced training through its curriculum taught by experts. Institutional aid may also help qualified learners lower the cost of their degree. The online educational assessment program incorporates video lectures, assignments, and class discussions throughout the curriculum.
Scholarships, loans, and other forms of financial aid help students cover the cost of the degree. In addition to this online assessment and measurement program, Kent State University offers 22 other master's degrees.
Kent State University Facts:
Number of Online Students: 15,098
Distance Learning Master's Programs: 23
Graduate Tuition Rate: $11,766 in-state; $21,952 out-of-state
Average Total Aid Per Learner: $6,999
Average Price After Financial Aid: $18,643
Kent State University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
Percent Online Enrollment
54%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Online Master’s In Educational Assessment
University of Mary
- Bismarck, ND
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Mary educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers online and at its Bismarck campus. The school's online options include master's programs.
Degree-seekers interested in educational assessment can pursue the master's in curriculum, instruction, and assessment from the institution in a flexible online format. Program graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current career. To help students succeed academically and professionally, the school provides a variety of support services, including academic advising and career counseling.
Online enrollees benefit from affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce their financial burden. Students with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants, scholarships, and loans. Additional funding options for graduate-level learners include private scholarships and institutional fellowships.
University of Mary Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 98%
Students Receiving Loans: 55%
Total Master's Programs: 31
Total Online Master's Programs: 31
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
45%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
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