1 Year Master of Education programs
1 Year Master of Education programs designed for aspiring educators. Enhance your skills and advance your career in just
1 Year Master of Education programs designed for aspiring educators. Enhance your skills and advance your career in just one year. A master degree in education has the potential to provide numerous opportunities and accelerate career advancement in this sector, while also equipping you with extensive insights into educational theories, methodologies, leadership strategies, and various subjects, placing you at the forefront of the education landscape.
The graduate degree in education comes in various forms, identified through different acronyms, including Master of Education (M.Ed. or Ed.M.), Master of Arts in Education (M.A.Ed. or M.A.E.), and Master of Science in Education (M.Sc.Ed. or M.S.E.). Any of these qualifications can enable you to advance within the education sphere, whether you aim to be an educator, administrator, counselor, or pursue alternative positions.
The choice regarding which educational master’s program suits you best hinges on your personal aspirations, with available specializations such as teaching, school psychology, and leadership. The ideal fit for one individual might not be suitable for another, and the strengths of one institution may vary significantly from those of another.
How We Identified the Top 1-Year Online Master’s in Education Programs
Creating a list of the “best” programs is inherently subjective and not based purely on objective criteria. The key is to focus on your distinct interests and career objectives, and to find a program that aligns perfectly with your vision for your teaching profession. Your experience in graduate school will be uniquely yours, leading to a very personal choice regarding which institution to attend.
Are you considering an ESL endorsement? Do you wish to enhance your skills in supporting students with special needs? Are you drawn to curriculum design, or are you focusing on gaining a comprehensive understanding of educational quality through a leadership-oriented degree?
These queries are for you to resolve. Our role is to ensure you have access to a selection of programs that have been thoughtfully assessed and confirmed to embody the essential features one would expect from a high-quality one-year master’s in education:
- Personalized mentorship
- Career support including job placement services and career fairs
- Strong ties to the educational community to secure varied opportunities for student teaching
- Skilled instructors with a track record of research and publications
- Opportunities to attend guest lectures and other invaluable events for educators
- A vibrant community of student teachers, inclusive of various clubs and organizations
- A robust and supportive alumni network that you will join upon completing your degree
Some of these programs focus on teacher preparation for initial licensure aimed at career switchers with bachelor’s degrees in different fields, while the majority cater to current educators aspiring to elevate their careers, attain advanced licensure, or obtain the education needed for additional endorsements in high-demand areas like ESL and special education.
However, there are two key aspects that they share: Each provides an exceptional education that meets all previously mentioned criteria, and each can be finished at a quicker speed.
Achieving a Master’s in Education in One One Year
Can you finish a master’s in education within a year? Absolutely, numerous expedited online master’s in education programs are provided across the nation by reputable universities.
Some of these programs might extend beyond one year, typically achieving degrees in about 18 months, while certain options can be completed even more swiftly, preparing you to either kickstart or enhance your career in education within that one-year time frame.
To find online master’s in education programs that fit your needs in just a year, check out the institutions listed below.
Liberty University–Master’s in Education
Degree: Master’s in Education (M.Ed.)
Duration: 18 months
Accreditation: National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education through the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Additionally offers M.Ed. specializations in:
- Curriculum and Instruction: Elementary Education
- Curriculum and Instruction: Leadership
- Curriculum and Instruction: Middle Grades
- Higher Education: Educational Leadership
- Religious Education (MA)
Other programs are accessible for advanced licensure and additional endorsements in:
- Administration and Supervision
- Math Specialist Endorsement
- Reading Specialist Endorsement
- School Counseling
- Curriculum and Instruction: Gifted Education
- Curriculum and Instruction: Early Childhood Education
Liberty University provides online master’s in education degrees aimed at educators in elementary, secondary, and higher education settings. It is an accredited liberal arts institution with a Christian evangelical foundation. Liberty University has been involved in distance education since 1985, witnessing continuous growth in its online offerings.
Walden University–Master of Science in Education
Degree: Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.)
Duration: 12 months
Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Available Concentration Choices Include:
- Curriculum Instruction and Assessment
- Educational Leadership Administration
- Educational Leadership Administration (International Non-Licensure)
- Elementary Reading and Literacy
- Elementary Reading and Mathematics
- Integrating Technology in the Classroom
- Mathematics (5-8)
- Mathematics and Science (K-8)
- Mathematics (K-6)
- MSED One-Credit Elementary Education (Non-Licensure)
- Science (K-8)
- Self-Designed
- Special Education (Non-Licensure) (K-12)
- STEM Education (K-8)
- Teacher Leadership
Beyond the specialized Master of Science options, Walden University also provides a Master of Arts in Teaching with a focus on Special Education.
Walden University is a virtual institution that has been operational for over five decades. Founded by educators Bernie and Rita Turner, its mission was to offer advanced educational programs tailored for working professionals and teachers, establishing an environment conducive to pursuing master’s degrees and higher in education. The Master of Science in Education is tailored specifically for current teachers and employs an evidence-driven strategy to address educational issues.
Notre Dame College–Master of Education
Degree: Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Duration: 1 to 2 years
Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Available Areas of Specialization Include:
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Intervention Specialist Licensure for Mild/Moderate Needs (K-12)
- Educational Leadership
- Reading and Literacy
Notre Dame College is an institution focused on Catholic liberal arts education. Established in 1922, Notre Dame College launched its Master of Education program three decades ago to equip individuals for careers in teaching and administration, leading to licensure and improvements in licensure.
The University of West Alabama–Master of Education
Degree: Master of Education in Learning, Design, and Technology (M.Ed.)
Duration: 1 to 2 years
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Also Provides M.Ed. Programs in:
- Early Childhood Development
- Early Childhood Education (P-3)
- Elementary Education (K-6)
- Secondary Education (6-12)
- Instructional Leadership
- Library Media
- Physical Education (P-13)
- School Counseling
- Special Education Collaborative Teacher (6-12)
- Special Education Collaborative Teacher (K-6)
- Student Affairs in Higher Education
Established in 1835, the University of West Alabama has a rich tradition in educational reform and teacher training. The Master of Education in Learning, Design, and Technology stands out by equipping graduates for roles in educational and corporate settings, such as instructional technology leaders, technology coaches, course design experts, or facilitators of professional development and training.
Southern New Hampshire University-Master’s in Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Degree: Master’s in Education in Curriculum and Instruction (M.Ed.)
Duration: 15 months
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Specialization Choices Include:
- Dyslexia and Language-Based Disabilities
- Educational Leadership
- Online Teaching
- Reading
- Special Education
- Technology Integration
Southern New Hampshire University currently serves over 135,000 online learners, making it one of the most rapidly expanding institutions in the nation, recognized for its innovative and high-quality distance learning. The Master of Education program at SNHU prepares graduates for leadership roles in the education sector, empowering them to create outcome-focused and culturally responsive learning experiences.
Northcentral University-Master of Education
Degree: Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Duration: 12-16 months
Accreditation: Council on Higher Education Accreditation, WASC Senior College and University Commission
Specialization Choices Include:
- Adult Learning and Workforce Education
- Athletic Coaching
- Corporate Wellness
- Curriculum and Teaching
- E-Learning
- Early Childhood Education
- English Language Learning
- General Education
- Global Training and Development
- Instructional Leadership
- International Education
- Leadership in Higher Education
- Organizational Leadership
- Reading Education
- Special Education
- Sport and Athletic Management
- Social Emotional Learning
- School Safety, Security, and Emergency Management
- Trauma-Informed Educational Practices
Northcentral University is a relatively new institution, founded in 1996, dedicated to serving professionals globally. Its Master of Education program emphasizes leadership capabilities for those aiming for advanced roles spanning preschool to 12th grade and beyond in higher education.
University of Washington-Master of Education
Degree: Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Duration: 1-2 years
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Specialization Choices Include:
- BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) Pathways
- Curriculum and Instruction: Excellence in Content Instruction
- Early Childhood Special Education
- Education Policy
- Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership Studies
- High Incidence Teacher Education
- Instructional Leadership
- Intercollegiate Athletics
- Leadership
- Leadership in Higher Education
- Learning Sciences and Human Development
- Low Incidence Teacher Education
- Teacher Education
- Measurement and Statistics
- Multicultural Education
- Social and Cultural Foundations
Being among the oldest universities on the West Coast, the University of Washington offers mid-level graduate training within its Master of Education programs aimed at aiding students in career progression or subsequent advanced studies. Besides its degree offerings, the institution provides significant mentoring and networking experiences.
Colorado State University–Master of Education in Education and Human Resource Studies
Degree: Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Education and Human Resource Studies along with teacher certification
Time to complete: 12 months
Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission
The curriculum includes:
- Program Design
- Teaching Models
- Interdisciplinary Approaches
- Practical Research
- Teacher Certification Seminar
- Internship for Teacher Certification
Colorado State University provides adaptable educational pathways while prioritizing support for online learners. Their master’s program in education, managed by the Center for Educator Preparation, aims to enhance teaching practices and educational theories. This rigorous curriculum allows you to earn a master’s degree and a Colorado teaching license within one year, concentrating on either early childhood education or secondary education.
St. Thomas University–Master of Science in Educational Leadership
Degree: Master of Science in Educational Leadership (M.S.E.L.)
Time to complete: 12 months
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Established as a Catholic institution 60 years ago, St. Thomas University provides an online master’s degree in Educational Leadership that trains students to assess, interpret, and implement leadership theories in their educational careers. The program prioritizes proficiency in leadership abilities, addressing challenges, initiating change, and making ethical choices.
Louisiana State University Shreveport–Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Degree: Master of Education in Educational Leadership (M.ED.L.)
Time to complete: 12 months
Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Also offers an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction (M.ED.C.I.).
Since its founding in 1967, Louisiana State University Shreveport has been providing Master of Education programs since 1978. The Master of Education in Educational Leadership at LSUS delivers experiential learning aimed at enhancing educational administration and leadership capabilities, with a curriculum that covers comprehensive school planning, management strategies, and financial resource distribution. Students can select between two specializations: General and Teacher Leader.
University of Southern California–Master of Arts in Teaching
Degree: Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.)
Time to complete: 12 months
Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
At the University of Southern California’s Rossier School of Education, there is a master’s program in teaching tailored for K-12 educators that integrates theoretical, practical, and advanced instructional methods. The program, available both on-campus in Los Angeles and online, is affiliated with the requisites for California teacher certifications across multiple subjects or in a specific subject area (English, math, science, or social studies).
Attending this prestigious institution will give you a significant edge as a knowledgeable and proficient educator. Besides preparing for the California Teaching Credential, the curriculum enables you to pursue a California Preliminary Education Specialist Credential, California Bilingual Authorization for Spanish, or a Gifted Education Certificate concurrently.
The Advantages of a One-Year Online Master’s in Education Program
When you break it down, the advantages of obtaining a one-year master’s degree in education fulfill three crucial elements:
- It is swift and cost-effective
- It enhances your overall knowledge or enables you to focus on a niche area
- It may provide foundational certification, or for those who are already certified, opportunities for career progression
In today’s fast-paced world, individuals lack the luxury of lengthy timeframes for degree completion, and top institutions are aware of this, providing fast-track programs to help achieve educational goals more quickly and economically.
Several of these programs cater to certified educators, who are actively teaching during the day while pursuing their master’s degree at their convenience for enhanced licensing and professional growth. Others are aimed at those seeking initial teaching licenses, who are enthusiastic about entering the field and starting their teaching careers without delay.
Numerous positions in educational institutions outside of teaching require at least a master’s degree. Teachers and other professionals aiming to become school counselors or administrators typically pursue advanced degrees as part of the norm, and after investing four years in undergraduate studies, it seems reasonable to pursue a master’s at an expedited pace.
Earning a master’s degree in education not only provides a wider comprehension of educational principles, it also paves the way for specialization in the domain. Focusing on a specific area can enhance your worth to both students and your institution as you develop a thorough grasp of topics such as educational technology, literacy, special education, ESL, or child development, along with teaching methodologies and leadership practices.
Enhancing your abilities as an educator is just one of the many rewards of completing a master’s in education program. Possessing a master’s degree often leads to higher salaries for educators across various roles, significantly improving their financial situation and overall quality of life. Additionally, numerous public and private schools provide incentives for teachers to pursue a master’s degree, which frequently helps mitigate expenses.
Varieties of Online Master’s in Education Courses
What kind of coursework can you anticipate from a one-year online master’s in education programs? It’s important to note that a single approach does not apply universally to all master’s degrees in the field of education.
Course offerings will differ based on whether you are pursuing a master’s in education focusing on specialized areas such as curriculum and instruction, special education, educational technology, or adult education, among several other choices. Some programs cater to teaching specific subjects like music, mathematics, or literacy, while others are intended for individuals preparing for roles in administration, adult education, and student services.
Common course themes that you might encounter in master’s programs for education include:
- Education policies
- Learning and teaching theories
- Research methodologies in education
- Ethics in leadership and reform in schools
- Equity in education and social justice
- Instructional leadership practices
- Ongoing education
- Special education elements
- Child psychology studies
- Child development principles
- Preparation pathways for doctoral-level education in the field.
What Constitutes a 1-Year Master’s Program?
A one-year master’s program is an expedited graduate course that compresses what usually takes two to three years into a single year. These courses target graduate students willing to commit fully to a whole year of intensive study.
You will engage in a challenging full-time curriculum, acquiring expert knowledge in your area of focus.
Such programs suit those who have recently completed a bachelor’s degree seeking to enhance their job opportunities, individuals looking to shift career paths quickly, or established professionals aiming to gain new skills.
Reasons to Pursue an Accelerated Master’s Degree
Flexibility :- Although designed to be intensive, numerous one-year master’s programs provide the option of remote learning, making them more accommodating.
Complete your studies swiftly :- Despite the demanding nature of one-year master’s programs, they appeal to many learners who prefer not to linger in academia.
Reduce costs :- Opting for a one-year master’s program may result in lower expenses compared to traditional programs due to its shortened duration.
Launch a new career within a year :- Upon earning your master’s degree, you will enhance your career opportunities and have the potential to increase your income.
Increase your earnings :- With a master’s degree, you can potentially earn upwards of $200 more weekly than if you only hold a bachelor’s degree, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Directory of Accelerated 1-Year Master’s Programs
Below, you will find our compilation of recognized master’s programs across various domains such as business, psychology, and education.
Additionally, we include the credit requirements for each program, along with its tuition and fee structure. Our selection is limited to accredited nonprofit institutions.
| School | Program Type | # of Credits | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of North Carolina Wilmington | MBA | 36 credits | $19,287 total |
| PennState World Campus | Engineering | 30 credits | $13,860 per semester |
| Purdue Global | Nursing | 60 quarter credits | $3,200 per term |
| Touro University Worldwide | Psychology | 36 | $500 per semester credit |
| Arizona State University | Elementary Education | 30 credits | $12,157 per year |
| University of North Texas | Data Analytics | 30 credits | $14,300 total |
| Western Governer’s University | Business | 33 credits | $4,755 per term |
| University of Alabama at Birmingham | Management Information Systems | 30 credits | $1,088 per credit |
| Cornell Tech | Computer Science | 30 credits | $2,280 per credit |
Is an Accelerated 1-Year Master’s Degree Beneficial?
A fast-tracked online master’s degree can be advantageous if you seek swift advancement in your career. A primary advantage is the shorter time frame to complete the degree. You might also find financial savings on tuition, fees, and other educational expenditures.
Nevertheless, you will encounter a demanding workload and a tight schedule. These programs typically necessitate full-time enrollment.
Limited availability in an online format could result in fewer opportunities for work, internships, and networking. Consequently, while you’ll be moving quickly toward graduation, you will similarly contend with a rigorous academic pace.
Masters in Education Careers & Salaries
The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that obtaining a master’s degree in education can open doors to numerous career paths, whether you envision yourself teaching students directly in a classroom or taking on a leadership or administrative position to ensure the efficient operation of your institution.
While many of the jobs mentioned below typically require only a bachelor’s degree in education, individuals whose bachelor’s degree is in another field might find that one-year master’s programs in education provide a valuable strategy for entering the education sector.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Elementary, Middle, and High School Principal | $98,490 |
| Postsecondary Education Administrator | $97,500 |
| Postsecondary Teacher | $80,790 |
| Instructional Coordinator | $66,970 |
| High School Teacher | $62,870 |
| Special Education Teacher | $61,420 |
| Middle School Teacher | $60,810 |
| Kindergarten and Elementary School Teacher | $60,660 |
| Career and Technical Education Teacher | $59,140 |
| Adult Literacy and High School Equivalency Diploma Teacher | $55,350 |
This sector offers a wide range of careers that individuals deem valuable, not just in terms of pay but also regarding job fulfillment. Pursuing a master’s degree in education can enable you to teach students ranging from kindergarten to high school seniors. Additionally, you could teach education courses to college students at a community college, and some universities may only require a master’s degree for part-time teaching positions.
If education is your passion and you envision yourself in one of these dynamic and important roles, and you’re eager to kickstart your career quickly, exploring one-year online master’s programs in education might be a beneficial option.
FAQ
Q1. Is it feasible to complete a master’s degree in education online within one year?
Ans. Absolutely. Numerous accredited online programs exist for graduate students that can be finished within a year. Certain institutions provide 12-month programs while allowing for an extension to 18 months, catering to students needing greater flexibility in their schedules. These 12-month offerings enable educators to achieve additional qualifications while continuing their current employment.
Q2. What is the cost of an Online Masters in Education?
Ans. Tuition and fees differ across institutions, but the cost generally ranges from $470 to $830 per credit, along with additional fees.
When selecting your program, it is crucial to evaluate the cost against the benefits and acknowledge the investment you are making in yourself, your career, and your potential income. You might also explore available scholarships, grants, and student loan options.
Q3. What opportunities are available with a Masters in Education?
Ans. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a wide array of career paths in K-12 education, including roles in special education, elementary, middle, and high school teaching. Beyond teaching positions, individuals with skills in school administration can pursue roles as assistant principals, principals, or instructional coordinators.
In the realm of higher education administration, career paths become even more diverse. Holding a degree in higher education administration could lead to roles such as academic advisor, admissions counselor, recruiter, diversity officer, or institutional research manager, based on your abilities and background.
Q4. What drawbacks does an accelerated M.Ed. have?
Ans. High course demands
Limited choices in course selection
Little time for extracurricular engagements
Decreased opportunities to socialize with fellow students.
Q5. What advantages does an accelerated M.Ed. offer?
Ans. Financial savings
Deep learning experiences
Enhanced efficiency of time usage
Faster opportunities for career progression.
Q6 How challenging is an accelerated master’s in education?
Ans. An accelerated M.Ed. program progresses rapidly. The coursework is condensed into six to eight weeks, depending on the duration of the classes. For those struggling to juggle a full-time job alongside coursework and assignments, these accelerated programs can prove to be demanding.
Q7. Is it feasible to complete a master’s degree in education online within one year?
Ans. Absolutely. Numerous accredited online programs exist for graduate students that can be finished within a year. Certain institutions provide 12-month programs while allowing for an extension to 18 months, catering to students needing greater flexibility in their schedules. These 12-month offerings enable educators to achieve additional qualifications while continuing their current employment.
Q8. How quickly can one obtain a master’s in education?
Ans. This varies by program, yet the quickest master’s in education degrees require 12 months. A conventional M.Ed. typically requires two years, whereas accelerated tracks offer courses that span five to eight weeks in a condensed timeframe. Consequently, you are able to secure your M.Ed. within a single year.
Q9. Is a one-year or two-year master’s in education preferable?
Ans. This largely hinges on your professional aspirations. Most one-year M.Ed. programs provide limited opportunities for internships or classroom experiences. In contrast, two-year programs include internship components. If you prefer a more manageable pace, a two-year option may better suit your requirements. However, several educators opt for the faster route to obtain their qualifications more swiftly.
