The demand for skilled secondary educators is growing. A master’s in secondary education equips students with the knowledge and expertise necessary to excel in teaching roles, fostering the development of young minds in middle and high school settings. Graduates of these programs are prepared for a range of impactful roles, including subject-area teachers, curriculum developers, instructional coordinators, and school administrators.
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, secondary school teachers earn an average salary of $65,220 per year, with the potential for higher earnings based on experience and location. The degree program typically spans one to two years, depending on the institution and whether it’s pursued full-time or part-time. As for cost, the National Center for Education Statistics reports an average expense of $12,000 to $30,000 for master’s degree programs, though this can vary based on factors such as residency status and program features.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best Secondary Education degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 20 Accredited Master's in Secondary Education Degree Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
Vanderbilt Peabody College
Intelligent Score: 99.68In-state: $52,781
Out-of-state: $52,781
In-state: $50,082
Out-of-state: $50,082
SAT: 1470-1570
ACT: 33-35
$2,245
On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
30-35
University of Michigan Marsal Family School of Education
Intelligent Score: 95.99In-state: $16,520
Out-of-state: $53,669
In-state: $24,344
Out-of-state: $24,344
SAT: 1340-1520
ACT: 31-34
Resident: $1,636
Non-Resident: $3,198
On-Campus
Teacher Education Accreditation Council
36
University of Washington
Intelligent Score: 95.61In-state: $10,629
Out-of-state: $37,998
In-state: $16,278
Out-of-state: $16,278
SAT: 1200-1453
ACT: 27-33
Resident: $532
Non-Resident: $961
On-Campus
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
48
University of Illinois at Urbana - Champaign
Intelligent Score: 93.7In-state: $14,317
Out-of-state: $33,824
In-state: $15,016
Out-of-state: $15,016
SAT: 1200-1460
ACT: 27-33
Resident: $585
Non-Resident: $1,264
On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
32
Boston College
Intelligent Score: 92.66In-state: $59,050
Out-of-state: $59,050
In-state: $31,824
Out-of-state: $31,824
SAT: 1330-1500
ACT: 31-34
$1,688
On-Campus
New England Commission of Higher Education
37-46
NYU Steinhardt
Intelligent Score: 91.73In-state: $52,204
Out-of-state: $52,204
In-state: $34,704
Out-of-state: $34,704
SAT: 1370-1540
ACT: 31-34
$2,185
On-Campus
Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation
30
Indiana University - Bloomington
Intelligent Score: 91.02In-state: $9,815
Out-of-state: $36,194
In-state: $9,786
Out-of-state: $9,786
SAT: 1120-1350
ACT: 24-31
Resident: $460
Non-Resident: $1,545
On-Campus
Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
36
Lehigh University
Intelligent Score: 90.72In-state: $54,790
Out-of-state: $54,790
In-state: $27,000
Out-of-state: $27,000
SAT: 1260-1433
ACT: 29-33
$630
On-Campus
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
33
Western Washington University
Intelligent Score: 89.27In-state: $7,377
Out-of-state: $24,135
In-state: $11,061
Out-of-state: $11,061
SAT: 1080-1270
ACT: 22-28
Resident: $591
Non-Resident: $1,262
On-Campus
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
45
Loyola University Chicago
Intelligent Score: 88.79In-state: $67,818
Out-of-state: $67,818
In-state: $97,480
Out-of-state: $97,480
SAT: 1190-1370
ACT: 27-32
$1,025
On-Campus
Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
37
National Louis University
Intelligent Score: 88.24In-state: $13,419
Out-of-state: $13,419
In-state: $11,646
Out-of-state: $11,646
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$700
On-Campus, Online
Higher Learning Commission
34
Teachers College at Columbia University
Intelligent Score: 86.82In-state: $57,864
Out-of-state: $57,864
In-state: $49,024
Out-of-state: $49,024
SAT: 1460-1570
ACT: 33-35
$2,029
On-Campus
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
38
DePaul University
Intelligent Score: 85.92In-state: $40,551
Out-of-state: $40,551
In-state: $19,370
Out-of-state: $19,370
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$695
On-Campus, Online
Higher Learning Commission
37
Mercer University
Intelligent Score: 82.96In-state: $28,695
Out-of-state: $28,695
In-state: $14,964
Out-of-state: $14,964
SAT: 1180-1340
ACT: 25-31
$667
On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
31
Worcester State University
Intelligent Score: 82.50In-state: $970
Out-of-state: $7,050
In-state: $3,042
Out-of-state: $3,042
SAT: 1000-1190
ACT: 21-29
$169
On-Campus, Online
New England Commission on Higher Education
37
University of Alabama
Intelligent Score: 82.28In-state: $10,780
Out-of-state: $30,250
In-state: $10,780
Out-of-state: $10,780
SAT: 1070-1330
ACT: 23-31
Resident: $635
Non-Resident: $1,660
On-Campus
Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
30
Clemson University
Intelligent Score: 81.58In-state: $14,118
Out-of-state: $37,110
In-state: $10,600
Out-of-state: $10,600
SAT: 1210-1390
ACT: 27-32
Resident: $539 - $734
Non-Resident: $1,118 - $1,586
On-Campus, Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
30
Whitworth University
Intelligent Score: 80.91In-state: $45,050
Out-of-state: $45,050
In-state: $12,312
Out-of-state: $12,312
SAT: 1050-1270
ACT: 21-28
$675
On-Campus
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
44
How to Choose a Master’s in Secondary Education Degree Program
Choose your area of study
Choosing the right area of study is crucial for career success and personal fulfillment. First, assess your interests and strengths to identify which subject or specialization aligns best with your passion and expertise. Look for colleges and universities that offer programs with a focus that aligns with your areas of interest. It may help to consider the job market demand and salary prospects for educators in your desired field. Seek guidance, if necessary, from academic advisors or professionals in the field to gain insights and advice on making an informed decision.
Research schools and programs
Researching schools and programs involves several key steps. Begin by compiling a list of accredited institutions offering the program, considering factors such as location, reputation, and program structure. Explore each school’s website to gather information on faculty expertise, curriculum details, and available resources like internships or teaching opportunities. Make use of online forums, alumni networks, and educational publications to gather insights and reviews from current and former students. Once you have located some likely options, reach out to admissions offices or program coordinators to ask specific questions and request additional information.
Prepare for tests and applications
Begin your preparations by familiarizing yourself with the application requirements and deadlines for each program you’re interested in. Dedicate ample time to study for standardized tests like the GRE or Praxis, utilizing study guides, practice tests, and online resources. Gather all necessary documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements, well in advance to ensure a smooth application process. Consider seeking feedback on your application materials from mentors or advisors. Stay organized by creating a timeline and checklist to track your progress and meet deadlines effectively.
Select your program
Selecting the right program involves thorough consideration of various factors. Begin by clarifying your career goals and preferred teaching approach to identify programs that align with your aspirations. Evaluate each program’s curriculum, faculty expertise, and available resources to ensure they meet your academic and professional needs. Consider factors like program duration, flexibility, and location to determine the best fit for your lifestyle and preferences. Ultimately, prioritize accredited programs that offer a comprehensive education and ample support for your growth as an educator.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Start by assessing your financial situation and exploring available funding options, such as scholarships, grants, and assistantships offered by the school or external organizations. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal loans and work-study programs. Research tuition payment plans, employer tuition reimbursement programs, and potential opportunities for part-time work or internships in your field. By carefully evaluating your options and planning ahead, you can effectively manage the cost of your degree.
What Can You Expect From a Master’s in Secondary Education Degree Program?
A master’s in secondary education offers prospective students a comprehensive educational experience tailored to prepare them for successful careers in teaching and educational leadership. Students can expect to gain in-depth knowledge of pedagogy, curriculum development, classroom management, and educational psychology, among other essential topics. Many programs offer specialized coursework or concentrations in areas such as special education, STEM education, or literacy instruction, allowing students to tailor their studies to their career interests and goals.
Program duration typically ranges from one to two years, depending on factors such as full-time or part-time enrollment and any prerequisite coursework required. Prospective students should also be aware of potential additional requirements, such as practicum experiences, student teaching placements, or in-person residencies, which provide hands-on teaching experience and may be integral to program completion.
Potential courses you’ll take in a master’s in secondary education degree program
- Foundations of Education. Provides an overview of the historical, philosophical and sociological foundations of education, examining key theories and their implications for teaching and learning in secondary schools.
- Curriculum Development and Design. Explores principles and practices of designing, implementing, and evaluating curriculum for secondary education settings, focusing on alignment with standards, student needs, and instructional goals.
- Educational Psychology. Delves into the psychological principles underlying adolescent development, learning processes, motivation, and classroom management strategies, equipping students with insights into fostering effective teaching and student engagement.
- Instructional Strategies. Students learn a variety of instructional methods and techniques tailored to the diverse needs and learning styles of secondary students. These emphasize differentiation, assessment, and technology integration to enhance teaching effectiveness.
- Content Area Methods. Focuses on strategies for teaching specific subject areas, such as English, mathematics, science, or social studies, incorporating pedagogical approaches, assessment strategies, and standards-based instruction relevant to each content area.
- Assessment and Evaluation. Explore principles and practices of assessment, including formative and summative assessment methods, data analysis, and feedback mechanisms to monitor student progress and inform instructional decisions.
- Classroom Management. Addresses strategies for creating a positive, inclusive classroom environment conducive to learning, emphasizing behavior management techniques, conflict resolution, and building positive relationships with students.
Master’s in Secondary Education Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a master's in secondary education degree program?
Start by reviewing the specific admission requirements of your chosen program. Typically, you’ll need to complete an online application form and submit official transcripts from all previous academic institutions. Most programs require letters of recommendation, often from academic or professional references. Some programs may also require standardized test scores, such as the GRE or Praxis. Reach out to an admissions counselor before applying to discuss any program-specific requirements and ensure you have a clear understanding of the application process. Admissions counselors can also provide valuable guidance and support throughout the application process.
How much does a master's in secondary education degree cost?
The cost of a master’s in secondary education degree varies depending on factors such as institution, program format, and location. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, tuition for such programs ranges from $12,000 to $30,000. Additionally, students should consider other expenses such as textbooks, technology fees, and transportation. Online programs may offer flexibility but can still incur similar tuition costs along with potential technology or online learning platform fees. It’s essential to research and compare total costs across different programs to make an informed decision about affordability and value.
How long does it take to earn a master's in secondary education degree?
Earning a master’s in secondary education generally takes from one to two years for full-time students, depending on the program’s structure and credit requirements. Part-time enrollment may extend the completion time, allowing flexibility for working professionals. Online programs often offer accelerated or self-paced options, potentially shortening the time to completion. Always consider the total number of required credits and any prerequisites, as they can impact program length. Prospective students should review program details carefully to understand the expected timeline and choose an option that aligns with their schedule and goals.