Increase Earnings with a Master's in Secondary Education
An online master's in secondary education helps educators increase their earning potential and qualify for leadership roles. Graduates can work as secondary educators, adult educators, and college instructors. These positions offer above-average salaries and strong projected job growth between 2019-2029.
Our list ranks the best online secondary education master's degree programs. Prospective students can use the ranking to find the right fit for their budget and career goals. This article also introduces scholarships for secondary education graduate students.
Master's in Secondary Education FAQs
What degree do I need to be a secondary school teacher?
Secondary school teachers typically need a bachelor's degree. A master's degree prepares teachers for leadership roles.
What is the purpose of secondary education?
Secondary education prepares young learners for the workforce or college. At the high school level, educators teach core subjects that lead to college and career readiness.
Do teachers get paid more if they have a master's?
Yes, in most districts, teachers with a master's degree earn higher salaries than teachers without one.
What type of education is secondary school?
Secondary school refers to middle school and high school education. Secondary schools often train students in core subject areas like math, science, and English.
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Why Get a Degree in Secondary Education?
A master's in secondary education blends pedagogical training with advanced coursework in a teaching endorsement area. During a secondary education program, master's students strengthen their teaching skills while gaining subject-area knowledge in fields like math, science, and social studies.
The flexibility of online master's in secondary education programs appeals to working educators balancing school with their teaching responsibilities. The format makes it easier for teachers to advance their education without leaving their current job.
How Much Does a Secondary Education Degree Cost?
The cost of a secondary education program varies by factors like school, enrollment status, and delivery format. Typically, public universities charge lower tuition rates than private universities. Additionally, public schools usually offer a tuition discount for in-state students. For example, the University of Nebraska charges $315 per credit for Nebraska residents and $444 per credit for out-of-state students.
Universities may also offer a flat tuition rate for online learners regardless of their residency status. At Arizona State University, the online master's in education program charges $693 per credit for in-state and out-of-state students.
In addition to tuition costs, prospective students should consider other education-related expenses, such as textbook costs and technology fees.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
How Much Do Secondary Education Majors Make?
A secondary education master's degree prepares graduates for careers as middle school and high school teachers. Both careers pay a median salary of around $60,000 per year.
However, educators with a master's degree often qualify for higher salaries and increased responsibilities. For example, a master's degree may place educators on a higher salary scale or open the door to higher-paid positions, such as lead teacher. The highest-paid middle school teachers earn over $96,000 per year, while the highest-paid high school teachers make nearly $100,000 per year.
Public schools typically offer higher salaries for teachers than private schools. Additionally, some states, such as New York, California, and Massachusetts, pay higher average wages. In these states, high school teachers earn an average annual salary of more than $80,000.
Courses in Secondary Education
Secondary education master's degree programs include pedagogical courses that promote teaching skills. Learners study topics like curriculum development, assessment, instruction, and teaching methodologies.
In addition, master's students complete coursework in their teaching field, such as math, science, or social studies. Depending on the program, master's students may also complete practicum hours. Courses vary by program, but this section introduces courses commonly found in master's in secondary education programs.
Secondary Teaching Methodologies
This course covers advanced teaching and learning methodologies for secondary-level instruction. Educators learn how to use data analysis in planning and assessment, strengthen their teaching methodologies, and develop engaging lessons. The course may include practicum hours to give students classroom experience.Curriculum Development
In curriculum development courses, master's students explore curriculum structures, key elements of a curriculum, and strategic course content. Learners also examine the differences in curriculum development for English language arts, social studies, math, and science courses. The class trains educators to align their curriculum and educational objectives with broader standards.Assessment and Evaluation
Graduate courses on assessment and evaluation examine best practices for assessing student learning. The course covers methods to monitor student process, promote student engagement, and modify instruction based on assessment feedback. Learners focus on development metrics and various evaluation strategies.
Certifications and Licensure for Secondary Education
Teachers at public schools need a teaching license issued by their state. In addition to a license, educators can pursue voluntary certifications to demonstrate specialized skills. For example, many secondary educators earn national board certification in their teaching area. Certifications help educators increase their earning potential and move into leadership roles.
National board certification recognizes experienced teachers with advanced skills in their certification area. At the secondary level, candidates can earn certification in English language arts, health education, mathematics, science, and social studies-history. Candidates must complete three portfolio assessments and a computer-based exam.
A master's in secondary education meets the requirements for a teaching license or certification in every state. While the process varies by state, most states require proof of completing an educator preparation program and passing scores on examinations. In most states, licensed educators must complete continuing education requirements to maintain their credential.
The International Society for Technology in Education offers certification for educators experienced in educational technology. During the certification process, candidates complete professional learning and a portfolio application. The program grants graduate-level credit for the competency-based certification.
Scholarships for Secondary Education
Master's students earning a secondary education degree can pursue scholarship opportunities to help offset the cost of their education. Professional organizations, private foundations, and the federal student aid program all support graduate students in education with scholarships. The following list outlines several scholarship opportunities for students in master's in secondary education programs.
Scholarships for Secondary Education
| Scholarship |
Amount |
Who Can Apply |
TEACH Grants |
Up to $4,000 |
The federal TEACH grant program supports educators pursuing a teaching degree. Recipients must agree to teach in a high-need field or a low-income school after earning their degree. |
STEM Teacher Graduate Scholarships |
$2,500 |
Master's students enrolled in an education program to teach a STEM subject qualify for this award. Applicants must attend an accredited university and enroll in at least two courses per semester. |
A. Harry Passow Classroom Teacher Scholarship |
Varies |
This scholarship supports educators who specialize in gifted education. Applicants must provide three letters of recommendation, evidence of acceptance to an accredited university, and a resume. |
Online Master's in Secondary Education Programs
#1 Online Master’s In Secondary Education Programs
University of Louisiana at Monroe
- Monroe, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Louisiana at Monroe offers an online MAT program for distance learners. The Louisiana school reports that 1,918 students take online classes. Distance learners can earn their master of arts in teaching at the school. The accredited curriculum blends theoretical and practical knowledge. The program builds advanced knowledge and skills for secondary education careers.
The institution reports a student-to-faculty ratio of 18-to-1, giving students one-on-one time with faculty. The program's website provides more information about support services and student organizations. Distance learners pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. This helps graduate students afford the master's degree with less debt. Students can expect a graduation rate of 47% at the school.
University of Louisiana at Monroe Numbers:
Total Online Enrollment: 3,756
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 16
Graduate Tuition: $6,490/year in-state; $18,590/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $10,649
Average Net Price: $9,710
The school holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
43%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online Master’s In Secondary Education Programs
University of New Mexico
- Albuquerque, NM
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Albuquerque, the University of New Mexico educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers on campus and online.
The institution's master of arts in education is ideal for degree-seekers interested in teaching careers. The program prepares learners to pursue positions in the field or advance their current career. Faculty advising, career counseling, and experiential learning programs prepare graduates for the workforce.
Online enrollees at the school pay affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree. Students at the accredited institution can qualify for federal financial aid programs. Additional funding options for graduate-level learners include private scholarships and institutional fellowships.
University of New Mexico Fast Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 94%
Students Receiving Loans: 31%
Total Master's Programs: 79
Total Online Master's Programs: 79
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Online Master’s In Secondary Education Programs
Ball State University
- Muncie, IN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Muncie, Indiana, Ball State University educates degree-seekers through in-person and flexible online programs. Learners can pursue graduate degrees online or on campus. The institution offers an online master's degree in secondary education for busy students who want to earn their secondary education degree while maintaining employment.
The master's program features rigorous coursework as well as access to faculty and career advising. The online secondary education program's flexible scheduling options can make it easier for busy learners to complete degree requirements. Graduate degree-seekers typically require 1-2 years to earn their secondary education master's degree if enrolled full time.
Students with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. To help cover the cost of their education, 56% of enrollees take out student loans. Learners can also pay for school using various forms of financial aid, which 91% of the institution's learners obtain.
Ball State University Fast Facts:
Total Programs: 316
Number of Online Programs: 113
Online Master's Programs: 81
Number of Online Students: 9,809
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
Transfer Credits Counted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
44%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Online Master’s In Secondary Education Programs
Georgia College and State University
- Milledgeville, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Georgia College and State University offers an online teaching program for distance learners. The Georgia institution enrolls 1,104 students in its online courses. Degree-seekers can earn their online MAT in secondary education at the institution. The accredited curriculum provides a rigorous education valued by employers. The degree emphasizes advanced knowledge and skills for teaching careers.
The school reports a student-to-faculty ratio of 17-to-1, giving students one-on-one time with faculty. The school’s website provides more information about support services and student organizations. The school charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. This makes it easier for students to cover their educational expenses. The college reports a graduation rate of 64% for its programs.
Georgia College and State University Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 2,007
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 18
Graduate Tuition: $5,292/year in-state; $18,846/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $7,671
Average Net Price: $20,823
The school holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
29%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Online Master’s In Secondary Education Programs
Georgia Southern University
- Statesboro, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Georgia Southern University is a public institution based in Statesboro. This institution offers online and on-campus graduate degree options. The online M.Ed. in secondary education program incorporates video lectures, assignments, and class discussions throughout the curriculum. Students enrolled full time earn their master's degree within two years. The school may offer part-time schedules for students who require more flexibility.
Students may be able to lower their cost of tuition through loans or scholarships. In addition to this online secondary education program, Georgia Southern University offers 18 other master's degrees.
Georgia Southern University Numbers:
Number of Learners Enrolled Online: 10,767
Number of Online Master's Options: 19
Graduate School Tuition: $4,977 in-state; $19,890 out-of-state
Average Total Aid Per Learner: $6,724
Average Net Price With Aid: $15,374
The school has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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