What Are the Best Master’s Programs for Education?

High-quality education is critical to a functioning society – but the challenges the education sector faces are growing in both size and complexity. For teachers and education leaders, master’s degree programs can offer the opportunity to study these challenges in detail and develop the tools to improve educational outcomes for students. 

But the number of different degree options and paths forward in the field of education can be overwhelming. Each degree has its own pros and cons – so how should you choose?

What Is an Education Master’s Degree?

Education master’s degrees are a category of graduate degrees designed for teachers, administrators and other professionals working in education and adjacent fields. The content and focus area of an education master’s can vary significantly by program type and by school. Some programs are oriented toward specific career paths, while others are more theoretical in nature. Today, aspiring education graduate students can pick between degrees in everything from education policy to subject-specific pedagogy. 

Who Is a Master’s in Education For? 

A master’s in education can be a good fit for anyone who wishes to build or advance a career in education, whether they envision themselves inside the classroom or in a role related to education policy or nonprofits. Students may start a master’s program at nearly any point, whether they’re at the start of their career or have already built years of professional experience. 
 

Get a FREE education career action plan filled with resources and recommendations from those who are already there.

What Types of Education Master’s Programs Exist? 

There are four primary types of education master’s programs, each of which offers its own advantages and disadvantages. Here’s what you need to know to make an informed choice.

Master of Education (M.Ed.)

An M.Ed. is an excellent choice for teachers, administrators and teacher leaders. This degree typically combines theory and practice, applying pedagogy, law and ethics concepts to real-world challenges. Some schools offer M.Ed. degrees with focus areas ranging from K 12 leadership to educational technology. Often, these programs include coursework related to instructional design, educational research, education policy and inclusive education. 

Master of Arts in Education (M.A. Ed.) 

While M.A. Ed. programs vary by school, they typically include coursework on education theory and pedagogy and have significant overlap with M.Ed programs. Many offer areas of specialization, often related to curricular areas such as arts or humanities. While some M.A. Ed. programs offer a concentration in education leadership, they are less widely known than leadership-focused M.Ed. degrees. 

Master of Science in Education (M.S. Ed.) 

Like M.A. Ed. degrees, M.S. Ed. programs vary significantly between schools. However, they typically include a strong emphasis on quantitative research and are less theoretical than the M.A. Ed. Some of these programs are centered on certain curricular areas, often in technical fields like mathematics and science education. They may also be geared toward students who want to work in educational research or policy. 

Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.)

Designed for teachers, M.A.T. programs prioritize instructional techniques and include significant time in the classroom. This degree is best for teachers who wish to hone their skills and do not plan on moving into other types of roles. Depending on the school, you may be able specialize in a subject area within your M.A.T. degree.

What Are the Requirements to Enroll in a Master’s in Education? 

The requirements to enroll in an education master’s program will vary by school and program. Typically a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required, and some schools may require test scores, letters of recommendation and work experience.

Franklin’s M.Ed. in Educational Leadership requires a bachelor’s degree in any field from an accredited institution but does not require test scores or prior experience in the field. 

How Do You Choose an Education Master’s Degree Program? 

To find the right degree for you, be sure to consider your short- and long-term career goals, and look for programs that explicitly address the skills and capabilities you’ll need to succeed. 

“If you are seeking to be a leader or increase your leadership with a focus on education, the M.Ed. is the gold standard,” says Dr. Patrick Bennett, vice president of academic quality and dean of Franklin’s School of Education. “Other degrees, such as the M.A.T., are focused on teaching. All of these degrees are worthy of consideration, but if you are seeking to lead, the M.Ed. is the best choice.”

Even if you know which type of degree is right for you, remember that curricula, career resources and faculty support may differ significantly between institutions. Look for a program that offers coursework and an educational philosophy that aligns with your goals while also considering factors like flexibility, cost and career support. 

Boost Your Education Career with a Master’s Degree

Whether you plan to stay in the classroom, move into administration or apply your skills to a different setting, Franklin University’s online master’s degree in education can help prepare you for your next step. 

“Franklin’s program graduates future-focused, student-centered leaders who are curious, compassionate, committed and competent,” says Dr. Bennett. 

You’ll learn from experienced teachers and education leaders with a theory-to-practice curriculum that helps you develop the tools to take on challenges in and out of the classroom. Best of all, Franklin’s M.Ed. is flexible, affordable and offered 100% online. Graduate in as few as 12 months without sacrificing your personal or professional lives. 

Learn more about Franklin’s M.Ed. in Educational Leadership.

Free Guide

Download Now

Finding the Right In-Demand Education Career

Get expert advice on how to launch or advance your career in a field that is both challenging and rewarding.