Online Master’s Programs in Educational Technology
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Online Master’s in Educational Technology
Educational technologists help connect computer and web-based technology to learning. These professionals may teach other instructors to integrate technology into the classroom or may design curriculum and transform traditional course materials to web-based delivery and testing systems. Learn about the types of courses you’ll take in this cutting-edge degree path, what skills you’ll learn and find out the best online master’s in educational technology programs.
Students who enroll in an online master’s program in educational technology are serious about furthering their careers in an educational setting. Prospective students must weigh the options for a graduate degree program carefully, as not all schools are equal in quality. We make this process easier with our list of online master’s programs in educational technology. In setting the rankings for the best online master’s in educational technology programs, we studied data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDs), the U.S. Department of Education and published materials from relevant universities. All schools on this list are fully accredited.
Featured Online Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
See Our Rankings MethodologyWilliam Woods University
Fulton, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Situated in Fulton, Missouri, William Woods University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in virtual and in-person formats. Along with in-person programs, the school delivers online graduate programs across several fields. Distance students can pursue an online master of education in teaching and technology.
Rigorous coursework, along with faculty and career advising, prepares enrollees for diverse careers. The online program's flexible scheduling options can make it easier for busy learners to complete degree requirements. Master's degree-seekers typically graduate in 1-2 years, unless enrolled part time.
At the accredited institution, graduate students qualify for federal aid programs and other forms of financial aid. Of the student population, 56% take out loans. Learners can also fund their education through financial aid, which 99% of the institution's learners secure.
William Woods University Numbers:
Total Programs: 56
Number of Online Programs: 14
Online Master's Programs: 9
Number of Online Students: 876
Average Tuition Per Credit: Unavailable
Religious Affiliation: Christian
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
- In-State$23,950
- Out-of-state$23,950
- In-State$6,480
- Out-of-state$6,480
- Retention Rate72%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled2,153
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Missouri Baptist University
Saint Louis, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Missouri Baptist University, a private institution located in Saint Louis, offers online undergraduate and graduate programs. Learners with personal or professional responsibilities often enroll in the school's 11 online bachelor's programs or 10 online master's programs.
Online degree-seekers can enroll in the convenient master of educational technology to gain advanced knowledge in the field. The master's program can benefit learners who are new to the field and those with established careers. To help students succeed academically and professionally, the school provides a variety of support services, including academic advising and career counseling.
Online enrollees pay affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree. Students with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. Additional financial aid options to help learners fund their master's studies include private scholarships and fellowships.
Missouri Baptist University Facts:
Per-Credit Fee: Not Known
Students Receiving Aid: 99%
Students Receiving Loans: 29%
Total Master's Programs: 14
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Grants Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$26,860
- Out-of-state$26,860
- In-State$10,197
- Out-of-state$10,197
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance Rate61%
- Students Enrolled5,309
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment34%
- AccreditationYes
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University delivers academic programs online and on campus. Online students can enroll in the convenient master's in educational technology and online instruction to gain advanced knowledge in education.
Enrollees prepare to enter the workforce by completing rigorous coursework and receiving faculty mentorship and career advising. The online education program's flexible scheduling options can make it easier for busy learners to complete degree requirements. Full-time master's students can typically complete their degree in 1-2 years.
The institution holds accreditation, which means students with financial need to qualify for federal grants and loans. Of enrollees, 57% fund their degree through student loans, according to the school's data. In addition, 99% of learners receive financial aid.
Liberty University Numbers:
Total Programs: 229
Number of Online Programs: 161
Online Master's Programs: 68
Number of Online Students: 78,511
Tuition Per Credit: $750
Religious Affiliation: Christian
Transfer Credits Allowed: Yes
- In-State$15,417
- Out-of-state$15,417
- In-State$7,980
- Out-of-state$7,980
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate51%
- Students Enrolled85,586
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment92%
- AccreditationYes
Concordia University-Saint Paul
Saint Paul, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Situated in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Concordia University-Saint Paul offers undergraduate and graduate programs in virtual and in-person formats. Graduates of the institution's online master of arts in education in educational technology can pursue a variety of careers.
Rigorous coursework, along with faculty and career advising, prepares enrollees for the workforce. Busy learners often benefit from the online program's enrollment options and complete academic requirements around their schedule. Master's programs typically take 1-2 years for full-time master's degree-seekers to complete.
The institution holds accreditation, which means students can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. The school reports that 58% of enrollees take out loans. Degree candidates can also apply for financial aid to fund their degree, and 98% of the institution's learners receive aid.
Concordia University-Saint Paul Facts:
Total Programs: 97
Number of Online Programs: 57
Online Master's Programs: 20
Number of Online Students: 3,036
Average Price Per Credit: $473
Religious Affiliation: Christian
Offers Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$22,800
- Out-of-state$22,800
- In-State$8,550
- Out-of-state$8,550
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance Rate98%
- Students Enrolled5,137
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
Western Illinois University
Macomb, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Western Illinois University delivers graduate-level programs for online learners throughout the country. In addition to on-campus options in Macomb, students at the public institution can pursue 26 programs in an online format. Among the school's master's programs is a master of science in instructional design and technology. Busy students balancing work and school can benefit from the online education program's scheduling flexibility.
During the program, distance learners take graduate-level classes. Master's students gain specialized knowledge during elective classes and apply theoretical knowledge during experiential learning opportunities. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically need 1-2 years to graduate. For specific application details, including requirements and deadlines, prospective learners can review information on the institution's website.
The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for learners to pursue graduate degrees. Tuition costs an average of $7,962 annually. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can qualify for federal financial aid programs. Of the school's students, 88% obtain financial aid to pay for their degree.
- In-State$8,627
- Out-of-state$8,627
- In-State$7,962
- Out-of-state$7,962
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate57%
- Students Enrolled7,624
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Saint Leo University
Saint Leo, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Saint Leo, Florida, Saint Leo University has one of the best online offerings in the country. This school offers a wide variety of online graduate programs, including a master's in instructional design. The school allows degree-seekers to submit entrance scores to bolster their application.
Distance learners work with advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff at the school. In online graduate classes, students interact with faculty and peers in a virtual learning environment.
The school's cost per credit is unknown. Since the institution holds accreditation, it can distribute federal financial aid. In addition to this online education program, Saint Leo University offers 26 other master's degrees.
Saint Leo University at a Glance:
Total Online Enrollment: 7,873
Number of Online Master's Degrees: 27
Graduate School Tuition Rate: $7,296
Average Price After Financial Aid: N/A
The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- In-State$23,100
- Out-of-state$23,100
- In-State$7,296
- Out-of-state$7,296
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance Rate72%
- Students Enrolled10,912
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment72%
- AccreditationYes
Texas A&M University-College Station
College Station, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Texas A&M University-College Station has one of the best online offerings in the country. The master's in learning design and technology offers a rigorous, accredited curriculum taught by experts. Learners interact through class discussions, and the program also uses video lectures and assignments. Full-time students complete the program in about two years. The program may also enroll students on a part-time basis.
The cost per credit is unknown. About 76% of enrollees receive financial aid, and 31% of students take out loans to fund their education. In addition to this online program, Texas A&M University-College Station offers 37 other master's degrees.
Texas A&M University-College Station at a Glance:
Total Online Enrollment: 9,451
Online Master's Degrees: 38
Graduate School Tuition Rate: $6,677 in-state; $18,700 out-of-state
Average Aid Amount Per Student: $10,115
Average Price After Financial Aid: $19,237
The school holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- In-State$7,941
- Out-of-state$34,190
- In-State$6,677
- Out-of-state$18,700
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled68,726
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment14%
- AccreditationYes
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Appalachian State University enrolls students in one online program. The school, located in Boone, North Carolina, enrolls 3,511 students in its online courses. Degree-seekers can earn their online master of arts in educational media - instructional technology at the school. The accredited program provides a rigorous course of study valued by employers.
The program builds advanced knowledge and skills for careers. The university maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 16-to-1, which gives learners one-on-one attention from faculty. The school's website provides additional information about online student services. The online program charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. These options help master's degree-seekers pay for their degree with less debt. Learners can expect a 73% graduation rate at the school.
Appalachian State University Fast Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 4,490
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 10
Graduate Tuition: $4,839 per year in-state, $18,271 per year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,612
Average Net Price: $10,525
The school has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- In-State$4,242
- Out-of-state$19,049
- In-State$4,839
- Out-of-state$18,271
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled19,280
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment23%
- AccreditationYes
Morehead State University
Morehead, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate programs at Morehead State University prepare students for new career opportunities and advancement. The master of arts in education - educational technology program uses a rigorous curriculum taught by experts in the field. The online master's program relies on video lectures, assignments, and class discussions. Online students can expect to earn their master's degree within two years. Part-time enrollment gives learners more time to complete the degree.
According to the institution, 100% of enrollees receive financial aid and 43% take out loans. In addition to this online program, Morehead State University offers 13 other master's degrees.
Morehead State University Fast Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 4,437
Number of Online Master's Degrees: 14
Tuition for Grad Students: $10,260
Average Aid Amount Per Student: $9,428
Average Price With Financial Aid: $12,560
Morehead State University holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, an independent accrediting agency.
- In-State$8,970
- Out-of-state$13,556
- In-State$10,260
- Out-of-state$10,260
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled9,654
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Indiana University-Bloomington
Bloomington, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Indiana University-Bloomington delivers educational programs online and in person. One option includes an online master's in instructional systems technology. Prospective students can use college admissions tests to strengthen their application. The school provides advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff to help distance learners. In online courses, degree candidates interact with faculty and peers in a virtual learning environment.
Grad students can use financial aid such as loans and scholarships to cover their tuition expenses. While earning a master's, learners gain the knowledge and skills necessary to secure roles in their field.
Indiana University-Bloomington Facts:
Number of Online Students: 8,390
Online Master's Program Totals: 10
Graduate Tuition Rate: $9,501 in-state; $31,932 out-of-state
Average Aid Awarded: $11,645
Average Price After Aid: $13,036
Indiana University-Bloomington holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
- In-State$9,575
- Out-of-state$35,140
- In-State$9,501
- Out-of-state$31,932
- Retention Rate90%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled43,260
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment19%
- AccreditationYes
Tiffin University
Tiffin, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Tiffin University is a private institution located in Tiffin, Ohio. Experts in the field teach courses in the accredited master of education in instructional design program. Like on-campus students, online degree-seekers work with advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff. The school's virtual classrooms let learners interact with faculty and peers.
Information on the school's cost per credit is unavailable. To fund their education, 100% of students at the school obtain financial aid and 65% take out loans. Degree-seekers gain the knowledge and skills they need to secure roles in their field.
Tiffin University Fast Facts:
Enrolled Online Learners: 1,498
Online Master's Programs: 24
Graduate School Tuition Rate: $12,600
Average Annual Cost: N/A
Tiffin University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
- In-State$25,710
- Out-of-state$25,710
- In-State$12,600
- Out-of-state$12,600
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance Rate69%
- Students Enrolled2,926
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment51%
- AccreditationYes
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Huntsville, Texas, Sam Houston State University educates degree-seekers through in-person and flexible online programs. Students interested in advancing their education career can pursue the master of education in instructional systems design and technology from the institution in a flexible online format.
Enrollees complete rigorous coursework and can access faculty and career advising. Busy learners balancing work and school can benefit from the online program's scheduling flexibility. Full-time master's students can typically complete their degree in 1-2 years.
Students with financial need can apply for federal aid, including grants and loans. Of enrollees, 53% fund their degree through student loans, according to the school's data. Learners can also apply for financial aid to fund their degree, and 86% of the institution's learners receive aid.
Sam Houston State University Fast Facts:
Total Programs: 132
Number of Online Programs: 43
Online Master's Programs: 50
Number of Online Students: 11,475
Average Tuition Per Credit: N/A
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Permits Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$5,856
- Out-of-state$15,984
- In-State$5,765
- Out-of-state$13,361
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate83%
- Students Enrolled21,558
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
University of Central Missouri
Warrensburg, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Learners can earn accessible, affordable online graduate degrees from University of Central Missouri. The public institution's academic offerings include 14 online master's programs. Degree-seekers at the school choose from many master's programs, including a master's in educational technology. Working professionals can benefit from the online program's flexible enrollment options.
The graduate-level curriculum comprises core coursework and advanced classes. Master's students can participate in experiential learning opportunities to apply skills and knowledge from program coursework. Graduate degree-seekers typically require 1-2 years to earn their master's degree if enrolled full time. For details about application deadlines and requirements, prospective learners can review the institution's website.
Online enrollees pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. The institution charges Missouri residents an average graduate tuition rate of $7,524. Out-of-state students pay an average of $15,048. Enrollees with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. A total of 94% of students receive financial aid.
- In-State$7,128
- Out-of-state$14,256
- In-State$7,524
- Out-of-state$15,048
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled11,229
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Minnesota State University-Mankato
Mankato, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Mankato-based Minnesota State University-Mankato provides academic programs for online and on-campus degree-seekers. In addition to on-campus offerings, the school delivers five bachelor's programs and 11 master's programs online.
Degree-seekers at the institution can pursue an online master of science in educational technology. Learners currently employed in the field can pursue promotions or raises after earning their master's degree. Student support services, including faculty mentorship and career counseling, help learners succeed academically and professionally.
The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for enrollees to pursue graduate degrees. Students with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. Additional financial aid options to help learners fund their master's studies include private scholarships and fellowships.
Minnesota State University-Mankato Facts:
Average Per-Credit Price: Unavailable
Students Receiving Aid: 88%
Students Receiving Loans: 51%
Total Master's Programs: 68
Total Online Master's Programs: 68
Allows Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$7,394
- Out-of-state$15,686
- In-State$7,694
- Out-of-state$7,694
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate63%
- Students Enrolled14,325
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Utah State University
Logan, UT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers can pursue Utah State University's programs online or in person. The public institution's master's programs include an online master's in educational technology and learning sciences for distance learners. The master's degree can qualify graduates for promotions to leadership positions.
Graduate students work with faculty advisors while earning their master's degree and preparing for careers. Enrollees complete a rigorous curriculum that fosters field-specific knowledge and transferable skills. Master's students develop leadership skills necessary to lead teams in settings.
The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for learners to pursue graduate degrees. Degree-seekers meet with financial aid counselors to discuss their funding options.
Utah State University Fast Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 77
Total Online Programs: 27
Number of Online Students: 13,952
Fee Per Credit: Not Known
Graduate Tuition In-State: $5,996
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $20,327
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$6,549
- Out-of-state$21,087
- In-State$5,996
- Out-of-state$20,327
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate91%
- Students Enrolled27,810
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment50%
- AccreditationYes
Dakota State University
Madison, SD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Dakota State University leads in online learning. With a rigorous curriculum and faculty experts, the master of science in educational technology ranks among the top in the field. Degree-seekers can use test scores to bolster their application. The school provides advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff to help distance learners. Distance learners communicate with faculty and peers in virtual classrooms.
The school's cost per credit is unknown. Scholarships, loans, and other forms of financial aid help students cover the cost of the degree. In addition to this online program, Dakota State University offers five other master's degrees.
Dakota State University Fast Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,206
Online Master's Degrees: 6
Tuition for Grad Students: $5,939 in-state; $11,088 out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,729
Average Cost After Financial Aid: $17,063
Dakota State University has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
- In-State$7,541
- Out-of-state$10,611
- In-State$5,939
- Out-of-state$11,088
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled3,268
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment68%
- AccreditationYes
Framingham State University
Framingham, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Situated in Framingham, Massachusetts, Framingham State University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in virtual and in-person formats. The public institution delivers online programs for busy learners, including a master of education. Graduates often qualify for advanced positions with high-level responsibilities and increased earning potential.
Faculty advisors provide enrollees with professional advice and insights into the field. Learners complete core and specialized coursework meeting high academic standards. Coursework emphasizes industry-specific analytical and leadership skills.
Online enrollees benefit from affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce their financial burden. Financial aid counselors help degree-seekers understand funding options, such as scholarships and fellowships. Graduate learners also qualify for federal student loan programs.
Framingham State University Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 25
Total Online Programs: 5
Number of Online Students: 1,932
Average Per-Credit Price: Not Known
Graduate Tuition In-State: $1,680
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $7,050
Transfer Credits Counted: No
- In-State$970
- Out-of-state$7,050
- In-State$1,680
- Out-of-state$7,050
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled5,456
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment35%
- AccreditationYes
Georgia College & State University
Milledgeville, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
With a main campus in Milledgeville, Georgia College & State University delivers graduate programs in various fields. Busy learners can enroll in a master's in instructional technology, which the public institution delivers in a convenient online format. Master's degree-holders often qualify for promotions or raises.
Students and faculty advisors discuss and analyze complex issues related to the field and learners' professional futures. The program's rigorous curriculum features core and specialized classes that foster field-specific and transferable skills. Master's students develop leadership skills necessary to lead teams in settings.
The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for degree candidates to pursue graduate degrees. The institution's financial aid counselors support graduate degree-seekers as they search for funding options. Learners at the school access affordable tuition rates and institutional funding, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Georgia College & State University Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 31
Total Online Programs: 26
Number of Online Students: 2,007
Fee Per Credit: Unavailable
Graduate Tuition In-State: $5,292
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $18,846
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$7,508
- Out-of-state$26,688
- In-State$5,292
- Out-of-state$18,846
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled7,031
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment29%
- AccreditationYes
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Hays, Kansas-based Fort Hays State University provides academic programs for online and on-campus degree-seekers. The school delivers 10 master's programs online, including a master of science in instructional technology. Program graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current education career. The school delivers services including academic advising, experiential learning programs, and career counseling.
The school supports online enrollees through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. Students with financial need can apply for federal aid, including grants and loans. Additional funding options for graduate-level learners include private scholarships and institutional fellowships.
Fort Hays State University Facts:
Fee Per Credit: Unavailable
Students Receiving Aid: 96%
Students Receiving Loans: 36%
Total Master's Programs: 19
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$3,990
- Out-of-state$14,070
- In-State$3,582
- Out-of-state$10,206
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate91%
- Students Enrolled15,908
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Texas A&M University-Commerce
Commerce, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Texas A&M University-Commerce offers undergraduate and graduate programs in virtual and in-person formats. The public institution's offerings include an online master's in educational technology. Designed with working students in mind, the affordable, accessible program prepares graduates for decision-making roles in the education field.
Faculty advisors help graduate students understand complex issues. The program features a rigorous curriculum, helping enrollees develop foundational knowledge in the field. While completing program coursework, master's students hone analytical and leadership skills they can apply to careers.
Learners pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. Financial aid counselors help degree-seekers explore funding options.
Texas A&M University-Commerce Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 42
Total Online Programs: 39
Number of Online Students: 7,879
Average Fee Per Credit: N/A
Graduate Tuition In-State: $3,630
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $11,232
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$4,790
- Out-of-state$17,460
- In-State$3,630
- Out-of-state$11,232
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance Rate43%
- Students Enrolled12,109
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment65%
- AccreditationYes
What Can I Learn in an Online Master’s in Educational Technology Program?
Graduate students pursing a master’s degree in educational technology discover how introducing multimedia elements into the classroom can better capture pupils’ attention by providing interactive opportunities to learn. Programs in educational technology emphasize the planning and set-up of technology-based classrooms.
Graduates who complete the master’s degree program in educational technology will work to design and develop class websites, create technology-based curriculum, create interactive videos and introduce new technologies at a school or district-wide level. Students will develop many skills in this degree program, including:
The ability to integrate technology into existing research and theories in curriculum, assessment and testing
How to use data sort students by grades, goals or learning level so teachers are then able to develop effective teaching strategies to help all students
Introduction to new technologies that can be implemented in schools and classrooms across the globe
- Tools for bridging the gap between today’s technologies and classic teaching methods
What common courses are offered in a master’s in educational technology program?
These are some of the common courses offered in a master’s in educational technology program:
- 1
Learning Technologies in the Digital Age
Covers the essentials of computer operations, integrating technology into the learning environment, theory of instructional design with technology and using presentation software.
- 2
Introduction to Instructional Design
An examination of instructional design theory as applied to educational technologies.
- 3
Designing Online Learning Environments
Covers principles of online learning environment design and the ways students and instructors interact with the design to achieve learning goals.
- 4
Educational Research Methods
An introduction to research methods for curriculum development emphasizing design, measurement, analysis and interpretation.
- 5
Educational Psychology in Instructional Design
Explores how people learn through the use of technology and how this knowledge is put into practice in the classroom.
- 6
Student Engagement in Online Learning Environments
Covers current thought on how students interact with online learning environments as well as their retention of knowledge.
- 7
Educational Gaming and Simulations
This course explores theoretical and design perspectives, and the practical aspects of evaluating and implementing games and simulations for teaching.
What exams or projects should I expect?
Most online master’s in educational technology programs include tests and a final exam or research paper at the end of every course. In addition, graduate students pursuing a master’s degree in educational technology will be expected to research and write a thesis based on their specialization. This involves an in-depth research topic that the graduate student wants to learn more about, covering a specific area of educational technology.
Alternatively, some schools may require students complete a capstone project, which demonstrates an ability to apply the theories, concepts, methods and technologies learned during the program to research and resolve a real-world instructional issue. Capstone projects can take the form of an eBook, web resource or other digital content.
What specializations are available in a master’s in educational technology program?
Although educational technology itself is considered a specialization within the master’s degree of science, there are additional areas where a student can focus. These can include:
- 1
Curriculum Development
A student specializing in curriculum development will take on additional coursework in curriculum development. This could include learning additional software or design programs used to build curriculum as well as an in-depth look at current curriculum needs at the federal and state levels. Graduates of this focus are prepared to work as curriculum developers for all education levels.
- 2
Online Learning Specialist
A student focusing in on online learning will learn how to create and implement online learning environments. Typically, this specialization will focus on how to use online learning for schools at the secondary and post-secondary levels using tools such as webinars, on-demand curriculum and other online learning tools.
- 3
Technology Educator
A specialist in technology instruction for colleagues unfamiliar with the ever-evolving capabilities of computer systems for educational use. A technology educator keeps up with the latest trends in educational technology and ensures that a school or school district is providing the latest technologies to students, teachers and school administrative professionals.
What Can I Do with a Master’s in Educational Technology Degree?
Educational technologists develop curricula in a digital environment that includes web-based learning and education programming stored on internal networks that are accessible only to the school that offers them. Teacher training and assessing technology requirements are also part of the job. Some professionals in the field manage computer learning labs. They order, install and network computer equipment. Technology instructional coordinators mentor and train new teachers in the latest instructional methods. They may also be responsible for ensuring schools meet state and federal mandates for using technology in education.
Training and Development Manager
A training and development manager in an educational field coordinates training and professional development programs for a school division or large educational organization where it may not be practical to gather all participants in one location for training, or the training materials can be accessed by individuals at convenient times, rather than halting classes so teachers can all attend a training session at the same time.
Instructional Coordinator
An instructional coordinator is responsible for overseeing the curriculum implemented in a school and ensuring that state and federal teaching standards are met. Instructional coordinators must also create new instructional material, and ensure it is implemented correctly in local schools. These individuals also work directly with teachers and principals to ensure the effectiveness of chosen curriculum.
Distance Learning Director
Configures and maintains video and computer systems linked to a school system’s multiple physical locations. The director is responsible for ensuring reliable video transmissions between locations so teachers and students who may be miles apart can interact with each other. Distance learning directors also interact with teachers on preparing the instructional materials via online video networks.
Professional Organizations
Networking opportunities with colleagues in the field provide the development of professional relationships and friendships that can lead to career advancement. Professional organizations also provide lifelong learning opportunities to stay current in the field of educational technology through newsletters, conferences and social gatherings. Here are some of the professional organizations supporting educational technologists:
Members are devoted to improving instruction through technology. AECT members may be found in colleges and universities, in the Armed Forces and industry, museums and libraries and hospitals.
International Society of the Learning Sciences (ISLS)
A professional society “dedicated to the interdisciplinary empirical investigation of learning as it exists in real-world settings and to how learning may be facilitated both with and without technology.”
International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI)
ISPI members use evidence-based performance improvement research and practices to effect sustainable, measurable results and add value to stakeholders in the private, public and social sectors.
International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE)
The society’s stated mission is to help educators worldwide in the use of technology “to solve tough problems in education.”
An international not-for-profit educational organization, the mission of AACE is to advance Information Technology in Education and E-Learning research, development, learning and its practical application.
International Technology and Engineering Education Association (ITEEA)
Promotes technological literacy throughout the world. Offers professional development, awards and research grants.
How Much Can I Make with a Career in Educational Technology?
The chart below shows the pay scales for different careers drawing on a master’s degree in educational technology. Salary rates will vary by location, but the data below gives some insight into average salary ranges for each of the positions listed below.
CAREER | MEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY | JOB GROWTH 2023-2033 |
---|---|---|
Training and Development Manager | $125,040 | +7% |
Instructional Coordinator | $74,620 | +2% |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
In addition to increased career advancement, earning a master’s degree can also increase salary. In 2022, workers with a master’s or higher degree took home a median salary of $80,200, which is 20% more than those with a bachelor’s degree, who earned $66,600, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
Online Master’s in Educational Technology Program Accreditation
The value of a master’s degree in educational technology depends to no small degree on the school’s reputation and accreditation. U.S. colleges and universities earn accreditation from agencies approved by the U.S. Department of Education. Accreditation involves rigorous and regular reviews of a school’s educational programs and student services. Look for accreditation status on the website of any program you are considering. If none is listed, contact the program and ask. Accreditation for the field of educational technology may come through the Distance Education Accrediting Commission, the , or through regional accreditation organizations.
How to Pay for a Master’s in Educational Technology Degree
There is more than one way to pay for an online master’s degree in educational technology. The following is a brief list of potential options available to prospective and current students.
- Federal Financial AidMost graduate students are eligible for some form of federal financial aid in the form of grants or low-interest loans. Students should file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid to determine eligibility.
- School-Supplied ScholarshipsMany schools offer scholarships through the education department for individuals earning a master’s degree. The amount of money offered and requirements vary by school. Before choosing a school to attend, check with the education department to see if you are eligible for any school-funded or locally-funded scholarships.
- Educational Technology ScholarshipsThere are also international groups that fund scholarships in educational technology. Through the Foundation for Technology and Engineering Educators (FTEE), the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association gives scholarships to help teaching students and professional educators maintain a competitive edge in technology. The Maley/FTEE Scholarship for Technology Teacher Professional Development awards $1,000 to an outstanding professional teacher enrolled in a graduate program in technology education. Applicants are selected for academics and innovation.
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