How to Get Your Master’s in Education

Many experienced, passionate educators and professionals choose to continue their education through a master’s in education (M.Ed). A master’s in education can increase your income (on average 28%), make you more eligible for administrative positions, and expand your knowledge base. The right M.Ed will help you advance your career goals while also inspiring you to be a confident and innovative educator.

Once you have decided that you want to pursue your master’s in education, figuring out how to get your master’s in education is the next step.

Why Might an Online Master’s Be Right For You

A master’s degree can be one of the best and most important decisions you make in your career. However, for many, it can be difficult to allocate one to two years to take off work, relocate, or commit to the time needed to do an on-campus program.

Online programs tend to be more flexible and accessible for those already in the workforce. You can continue to work, take care of your family, and complete your coursework when it’s convenient for you. Online programs also tend to be more affordable.

Another thing many people consider when deciding whether or not to get their master’s online is if it will hold the same prestige. The short (and easy) answer is yes! You are making an investment in your future. Employers want to see that you have the ambition, drive, and commitment to acquire new knowledge and advance your career.

How Do I Get My Master’s in Education Online?

Step 1: The Admission Process

Start with the basics. Ask yourself when you want to start your program? What are your long-term goals? What considerations are most important to you (flexibility, cost, curriculum)?

Consider that many online programs have flexible start dates and won’t make you wait for a new semester or academic cycle to start your program. Also consider how much time you’d like to allocate to your degree. Online programs often offer more flexibility, allowing you to condense your coursework for a more intensive, accelerated degree pathway if that fits in your schedule. Or, you may want to take a lighter course load and extend your degree pathway over a longer period of time. It depends on what works for you!  Once you’ve decided what type of program is best for you, you can compare offerings, attend information sessions, and clarify the admissions and application requirements.

Step 2: Apply

Now that you’ve narrowed down your programs of interest, it’s time to gather your paperwork and apply! Most admissions offices will require some combination of transcripts, entrance essays, and a resume.

You can see Moreland’s admission requirements here.

One benefit of an online program is that they often offer rolling admissions, which means you’ll hear from an admissions counselor quickly with a decision.

Step 3: Set yourself up for success

Great, you got in! Before and during your program it’s important that you set yourself up for success. While pursuing your master’s, especially if you intend on working while you do so, it’s important to designate time for studying. You should also figure out what organizational method works for you and stick to it. Do you prefer a paper planner, everything on your computer calendar, or some other method?

You’ll also want to make sure you have a strong internet connection, a reliable computer, the connectivity requirements for video calls and collaboration, and any other tech requirements for your program.

Most importantly, don’t forget to take care of yourself! It’s equally important to set time aside to relax, enjoy your family and friends, and do things you enjoy. Reducing stress will make classes and studying easier and more effective and allow you to get the best out of your program.

Figuring out how to get your masters in education can seem like a complex and difficult process. But if you’ve committed to continuing your education, you’ve already completed the hardest step! Now it’s just a matter of getting organized, finding what program is right for you, and hitting that apply button!

Learn more about our online master’s in education programs here.