Students who complete a master’s degree in adult education can effectively teach adult learners to improve their career outlooks and fulfill lifelong interests. This degree can qualify you for jobs such as adult literacy and GED diploma teacher, vocational instructor, remedial education teacher, community college professor, training and development manager, and more.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for adult education teachers is $60,560. The National Center for Education Statistics lists the average annual tuition for a graduate degree program as $12,596 at public universities and $28,017 at private institutions. Typically, it takes two years of full-time study to complete this degree.
How to Choose an Online Master’s in Adult Education Program
Choose your area of study
This degree may be offered as a Master of Education (MEd), Master of Science (MS), or Master of Arts (MA). Furthermore, many programs will allow you to select a concentration and focus your studies on a particular niche in this field, such as corporate training or English as a second language. If you already know what you would like to do after you graduate, look for programs that closely match these career goals.
Research schools and programs
You should only apply to institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
If you’re interested in a teaching career, you should also look for programs that have been accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). This organization has particularly high standards for education-related programs.
Also, consider the following factors:
- What is the tuition? Although students may receive scholarships and grants to help offset the cost of their adult education degree, they’ll still likely have to shoulder some of the cost themselves. Have a general idea of what you can afford, and then focus on the programs that make sense for you from a financial standpoint.
- Where is the school located? It may seem that the school’s location isn’t important for an online program, but it may be. Programs are often offered in a hybrid format, allowing students to study online and on campus. This may be an attractive option for students who want more opportunities to get to know their instructors and fellow students. Additionally, there may be special events, career days, or student clubs and organizations you’d like to participate in, and proximity to the school will allow you to do so.
To learn more about any schools that you’re interested in, you can visit the school’s website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.
Prepare for tests and applications
Application requirements vary by school and program.
Most universities require that applicants have a bachelor’s degree, although it doesn’t necessarily have to be in a specific discipline. Transcripts will likely be needed, and a minimum 3.0 GPA is expected. Not all schools require GRE scores, so check each university’s website and speak with an admissions counselor about this. There may be alternate paths for applicants who do not meet all the academic requirements. Since this is a graduate program, you’ll likely be required to provide letters of recommendation and a personal statement.
Before submitting an application, always contact an admissions counselor to ensure you have the most accurate information regarding requirements and deadlines.
Select your program
Carefully consider all the features of the programs you’ve researched. Note the pros and cons of each, determine where you’re willing to compromise and where you’re not, and compile a list of all the programs you will apply for. List them in order of preference, then submit applications to all of them.
Before making your final decision, review your needs and goals again. Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Do you want your program to be as online as possible, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a fair amount of in-person requirements? Some programs offer asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two online learning formats do you prefer? Your school should accommodate your scheduling needs and learning preferences.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Check to see if you qualify for scholarships from the university or other institutions. Look into financial aid that is available via federal and state loans and grants, and be sure to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Work-study programs are also available, and if you have room in your schedule, you can get a part-time job to help pay for your degree. Those who already work in the field should see if their employer offers a tuition reimbursement program as well.
Also, you should speak to financial aid counselors at the schools you’re interested in for the most accurate and specific information about program cost.
Best 50 Accredited Online Master’s in Adult Education Programs
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How We Rank Schools
For this list, we concentrated on master’s degrees in adult education/learning. Students can earn a variety of different degrees in this field, including a Master of Education (MEd), Master of Science (MS), or Master of Arts (MA). Each type of degree has a slightly different approach and requirements, so compare programs to find the one that best suits your needs.
To ensure flexibility for working students, we primarily reviewed programs that can be completed 100% online. Some programs are also available on campus or can be completed through a combination of in-person and online classes.
All listed programs are offered by regionally accredited institutions, which guarantees that they meet high standards of quality for postsecondary education. Several programs also have programmatic accreditation through accrediting bodies like the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
Once we compiled our list, our team evaluated each program based on its cost, flexibility, course offerings, outcomes, reputation, and faculty. We then gave each program an Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out our ranking methodology.
What Can You Expect from an Online Master’s in Adult Education Program?
Along with developing strong reading, writing, and communication skills, this degree emphasizes other qualities educators need, such as patience, empathy, a love of learning, and teamwork. Students of this program learn how to teach reading and math to adults who lack basic skills, and they also gain insight into how the social circumstances and psychological development of adults influence the way they learn.
An online master’s in adult education requires 30-36 credit hours to complete, the same number needed for an on-campus program, and it can be an MA, MS, or MEd. Programs often include a final master’s project or thesis. Many programs can be completed entirely online, with course materials delivered via a learning management system such as Canvas, Blackboard, or Moodle.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online master’s in adult education degree program
- Processes and methods of instruction. This course introduces students to various methodologies and techniques used in adult education. Students learn how to employ different approaches and strategies and conduct adult education in both a classroom and workplace environment.
- Multicultural perspectives in adult education. In this course, students learn about cultural diversity and how to develop inclusive educational programs. They learn how to teach in a culturally diverse environment, where language, customs, and approaches to learning and education can vary greatly.
- Distance teaching and learning. Since so much education now takes place online, this course covers effective education strategies and methods for teaching online as opposed to in a classroom. Various technologies are explored as well as how to develop materials for interactive and collaborative learning.
- Program development. Students learn how to develop and manage training and educational programs within learning organizations. The course examines such subjects as instructor support, budgeting, stakeholders, marketing, and course design.
What Can You Do With an Online Master’s in Adult Education?
Career outlook
A master’s in adult education opens up diverse career paths in the field of education and training. Graduates work in higher education, the corporate world, nonprofit organizations, and healthcare. They may pursue roles in government, language schools, or the online educational sector. Consulting and community development are also fields that welcome those with this academic credential.
Here are some common career options for those with an online master’s in adult education:
- Adult education or ESL teacher — Teach adult learners fundamental skills, such as reading, writing, and math.
- Median annual salary: $60,560
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): -13%
- New job openings projected: 4,200 annually
- Training and development manager — Design and manage an organization’s employee training programs.
- Median annual salary: $125,040
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 6%
- New job openings projected: 3,500 annually
- Social or community service manager — Oversee operations and secure funding for programs that support public well-being.
- Median annual salary: $77,030
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 9%
- New job openings projected: 16,000 annually
Online Master’s in Adult Education Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online master’s in adult education degree program?
Most universities require that applicants for this degree hold a bachelor’s degree, although not necessarily in a field related to education. Supporting documentation — transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume — will likely also need to be submitted. Speak with an admissions advisor for details.
How much does an online master’s in adult education degree cost?
A master’s degree in adult education can cost anywhere between $11,000 and $23,000 in total tuition. Furthermore, students should expect to pay additional fees for books, software, and support services.
How long does it take to earn an online master’s in adult education degree?
An online master’s in adult education usually takes full-time students about two years to complete, but many universities offer an accelerated program that can be completed in 12-18 months. Some schools offer full- and part-time options, but not all. The school’s website should provide information on this, but it’s always good to speak with an admissions advisor.
Is an online master’s in adult education worth it?
Earning an online master’s degree in adult education can be worth it for many individuals who wish to have a positive impact on the lives of others, but the value of the degree depends on several factors, including your career goals, personal circumstances, and the specific program you choose.
A master’s degree may be essential if you wish to advance in the field of adult education, taking on leadership roles or working in specialized areas such as instructional design or program management. A master’s degree also opens up higher-paying and more fulfilling opportunities.
Online programs make it easy for busy individuals to earn their degree. They can be a good option for working adults or those with family commitments. Earning your degree online indicates to potential employers that you have well-developed time management skills and the drive to succeed in any position you are given.
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