Best Master’s in Educational Technology Degree Programs of 2023
Technology is becoming an increasingly important component of learning environments from elementary schools to universities. Learn strategies to leverage technology in educational settings with a Master's Degree in Educational Technology.
Why This Matters
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DEMAND FOR INSTRUCTIONAL COORDINATORS IS EXPECTED TO INCREASE BY 6%
By 2029, schools will need more skilled workers to improve teacher efficiency and implement technology in curricula.
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INSTRUCTIONAL COORDINATORS MAKE 1.5X MORE THAN OTHER OCCUPATIONS
With a median annual salary of $66,290, professionals working in educational technology make $26,480 more than all other occupations.
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TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT MANAGERS EARN $113,350 PER YEAR
Professionals who design, develop, and create knowledge-enhancing programs for educational institutions and organizations make almost three times the median salary ($39,810) for all other occupations.
Our Research
Our research covers graduate programs in educational technology, also known as instructional technology. Students receive instruction in digital transformation advancements in education, such as augmented and virtual reality, gamification, and artificial intelligence. Degrees offered include Master of Science in Instructional Technology, Master of Science in Learning Technologies and Design, Master of Arts in Educational Media, Master of Science in Instructional Systems and Learning Technologies, Master of Science in Educational Technology, and Master of Science in Curriculum Development & Instructional Technology. Students can choose from in-person, on-campus, and hybrid learning formats.
Higher education programs that prepare students for management roles in educational technology and offer curricula that meet certain academic standards are recognized by accreditation organizations. Accreditation is given at the national and regional levels. The programs on our list are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
We evaluated each program on the basis of flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation. Then we calculated the Intelligent Score for each program on a scale from 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
- 60 hours to write this article
- 185 universities and colleges we assessed
- 337 education programs we compared
The Top 50 Master’s in Educational Technology Degree Programs
What You Should Know About This Degree
When deciding which graduate program to pursue, consider if you’d like to learn about technological applications for education or receive a more generalized education in technology. The Master of Information Technology degree covers all aspects of computing technology, including software, hardware, and computer networks. This knowledge can be applied to many professional careers, such as computer systems analyst, cloud architect, and video game designer. Educational technology specializes in improving learning environments and academic performance. Both programs cover advancements in technology and how they apply to real-world problems. If you’re interested in pursuing a professional career that combines education and tech, a graduate program in education technology might be right for you.
Certifications can help graduates gain new skills and insight into the rapidly developing technology industry. These credentials can also help demonstrate to potential employers a student’s expertise in the field of educational technology. Graduates should consider obtaining certifications such as the ISTE Certification for Educators, Leading Edge, Microsoft Certified Educator, Google for Education, and Apple Distinguished Educator.
Graduates can expect a positive job outlook as the demand for digital learning environments increases and schools seek to train more educators in implementing technology in their classrooms.
What’s Next?
When researching master’s in education technology programs, ask yourself these questions:
- Am I eligible for this program? Students must hold a bachelor’s degree in education, business, information technology, or other relevant field to pursue a graduate degree in informational technology. Some programs might require a minimum GPA and Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score.
- How long does it take to complete this online degree? Most master’s in educational technology degrees take two years of full-time study to complete. The programs on our list require 31 to 45 credits to graduate.
Each program has entry requirements and application deadlines. Visit the school’s website to learn more about academic prerequisites and the deadlines for submitting application materials.
Master’s programs require a financial investment. Consider how you will cover the cost of your studies by researching scholarships, grants, and loans. You might be eligible for federal student aid, and your employer might cover part or all of your tuition fees.