A master’s in educational technology degree teaches students how to implement technology as a successful part of learning. Professionals are prepared for digital transformation, technology integration, academic modernization, training, professional development, and online education. The skills the program teaches can be applied to K-12 and higher education institutions, business, healthcare, government, and more.
For instructional coordinators, the Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts 7% job growth through 2031, with a median annual salary of $63,740. Similar growth is expected for training and development managers, who make $120,130 per year.
According to EducationData.org, the average cost of a master’s degree in education is $59,840. However, there are a number of factors that influence the overall cost of this degree. Full-time master’s in educational technology programs typically take two years to complete.
How to Choose an Online Master’s in Educational Technology Program
Choose your area of study
There are several domains under the banner of educational technology, including development, design, utilization, evaluation, and management. Research these areas, and pick the one that most aligns with your interests and career goals. This will help you focus your search when considering different program options.
Also, review the different types of master’s degrees available in this field, including a Master of Education (M.Ed), Master of Science (MS), and Master of Arts (MA). Each type of degree has its own specific approaches to curriculum and experiential learning, such as thesis or capstone project requirements.
Now is also an excellent time to set your parameters in terms of course delivery method, such as a synchronous or asynchronous program, and enrollment options, including full-time or part-time enrollment.
Research schools and programs
The first step is to make sure that any schools and programs you’re considering are accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, as well as the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Accreditation ensures that programs and schools meet high standards of quality. It also increases students’ eligibility for financial aid, future job opportunities, and post-secondary education.
Students should also research what schools offer regarding curriculum, faculty support and access, instructor credentials, graduation and job placement rates, and support services for online students. This information is usually available on the school’s website or by contacting their admissions office. To get a better feel for the school, talk to current and previous students and faculty about the program, read reviews on the school’s website, and participate in virtual open houses and information sessions.
Other questions to investigate include:
- Do students need a background or bachelor’s degree in education to be eligible for admission?
- Is field experience or an internship necessary?
- Are education scholarships offered from sources outside of the school?
- Will teacher certification be required for some jobs post-graduation?
- Do online students have access to tutoring services?
Prepare for tests and applications
When researching schools, students should gather information about the application process for each school, including eligibility requirements and necessary application documents. This information is available on the school’s website or by contacting the admissions office.
Eligibility requirements vary by program, but some common standards include a background in education and teacher certification as well as a minimum undergraduate GPA (typically a 3.0).
Begin gathering required application materials, which usually include the following:
- Official transcripts from all schools previously attending
- Letters of recommendation from colleagues, community leaders, or former professors
- A personal essay or statement that outlines your academic and professional background, reasons for seeking graduate school, and career aspirations.
- A resume highlighting relevant experience
- GRE scores
To keep track of these materials and when they are due, a spreadsheet or checklist can be helpful.
Select your program
As you gather information, eliminate any schools that won’t meet your needs in terms of curriculum, cost, or schedule. This will help you choose the schools you’ll actually apply to. There’s no right or wrong number of schools to apply to; some students only apply to one or two programs, while others submit multiple applications to increase their odds of acceptance. However, if you’re applying to a high number of programs, remember that most schools charge application fees, which can quickly add up.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for need-based aid such as federal student loans, grants, fellowships, assistantships, scholarships, and work-study possibilities. Students with exceptional academic achievement or extracurricular activities can seek merit-based scholarships and grants from the institution or external organizations like professional development groups, non-profits, and community organizations.
If you plan to work while attending school, find out if your employer offers tuition assistance benefits. Veterans and military service members should inquire about tuition discounts and GI Bill benefits. All students can inquire about payment plans, which allow students to spread out tuition payments over the term.
The Top 55 Online Master’s in Educational Technology Programs
Discover More Options
How We Rank Schools
This list focuses on graduate degrees in educational technology. Students can earn a few different types of degrees in this field, including a Master of Education (M.Ed), Master of Arts (MA), or Master of Science (MS).
All of the programs on our list are offered by regionally accredited institutions. This guarantees that they meet the highest standards of quality for postsecondary education. Many programs also have National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) accreditation, which is an added confirmation of quality.
We sought programs that can be completed entirely or primarily online to ensure accessibility for the greatest number of students regardless of location or availability.
Once we created our list of programs, we evaluated their flexibility, cost, reputation, faculty, and outcomes. We then calculated the Intelligent Score of each program on a scale from 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
What Can You Expect from an Online Master’s in Educational Technology Program?
Expect to differentiate between educational technology and instructional technology: technological tools used in education apply to instructional technology, while educational technology is the action of using those tools.
Some programs have many specialized areas, including:
- Online learning
- Adult education
- K-12 education
- Training and performance improvement
- Research technology and theory
- Information and communication technology
- Computer-based instruction
Most degrees need 30 to 36 credit hours to complete. A thesis, practicum, field experience, or professional portfolio is common with most graduate education degrees.
Educational technology students might have to pay a fee for access to a technology resource center. Educators desiring to work in public schools could need to pay for state certification exams. An educational technologist working in the business field doesn’t need teaching certification, usually gaining on-site experience with internships.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online master’s in educational technology degree program
- Assistive Technology for Individualized Education Plans. This class discusses how technology aids learners with special needs. The concentration is on how assistive technology removes barriers for students with impairments.
- Emerging Technologies. Educational technology outside the public domain is covered in this class.
- Artificial Intelligence in the Classroom. Students learn how to implement artificial intelligence in lesson plans. Critical thinking using artificial intelligence is encouraged.
- Practical Teaching for Technology. This class focuses on how to balance technology instruction techniques with traditional methods. The pros and cons of technology in the classroom are a central theme.
What Can You Do With an Online Master’s in Educational Technology Degree?
Career outlook
Careers related to computers and technology are continuing to expand as more industries go digital. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and IT jobs will see much faster than average growth through 2032, with around 377,500 job openings expected each year. The education field is also expected to see average growth in that same timeframe, which means those with an educational technology degree are well poised for the coming job market. The median annual salary for instructional coordinators is around $66,490, but those in corporate jobs could earn around $120,000.
Career paths
A degree in educational technology allows you to pursue a variety of career paths across different industries. These include primary, secondary, and post-secondary education as well as corporate training and development, healthcare, and business administration. Any industry that uses technology in its training and continuing education for employees can benefit from someone with these skills.
Because educational technology is applicable to so many industries, the job titles graduates may see can vary significantly. Here are some common career paths for those with a master’s in educational technology:
- Classroom teacher — work directly with students to help them engage with and master material
- Consultant — help businesses and schools understand their gaps in educational technology and how to fix them
- Corporate trainer — deliver instructional materials to onboarding employees and those who need ongoing training
- E-learning director — oversee an institution’s digital learning program
- Instructional designer — create in-depth curricula that equip teachers and trainers to deliver material in an accessible way
- Technology coordinator — support other staff members in using technology for classroom and other learning environments
Educational Technology Coordinator
Earning Potential: $40,000-$62,000 annually
Education Required: Master’s degree in Educational Technology, Education, Information Technology, or Computer Science
An educational technology coordinator is responsible for integrating technology into the learning environment. Whether they work in academics or corporate training, they ensure that learners and educators are able to effectively engage in instruction with digital tools and e-learning platforms. Their duties will likely include designing curricula, supporting managers and teachers through training sessions, and troubleshooting tech issues.
An educational technology coordinator’s goal is to make the use of technology in educational materials as seamless and smooth as possible. Their work contributes to a more dynamic learning environment, increasing information retention and supporting learning and development goals.
Instructional Designer
Earning Potential: $51,000-$91,000 annually
Education Required: Master’s degree in Educational Technology, Instructional Design, Learning Technology, or related fields
Instructional designers are responsible for designing and implementing learning experience systems that support the goals of the intended audience. They may work for schools that are interested in hybrid and remote course offerings. Instructional designers may also work for businesses and corporations who want to streamline their training processes.
They use their understanding of how people learn combined with a strong proficiency in technology to develop engaging courses that can be delivered in various remote formats. Special attention is paid to the intended audience and the goals and objectives of the course to ensure an efficient learning process.
Digital Learning Director
Earning Potential: $52,000-$121,000 annually
Education Required: Master’s degree in Educational Technology, Instructional Design, or related fields
A digital learning director oversees every aspect of a school’s or organization’s e-learning program. They stay on top of changes in the industry to ensure that current technology and educational research are implemented and that the organization is using the most effective and efficient resources. They create a vision for future digital learning initiatives and identify potential gaps or issues in the current strategy.
Digital learning directors must also manage the daily operations of the e-learning program. This includes supporting managers and other staff members. In an academic setting, this could include designing and delivering seminars and presentations on digital learning.
Online Master’s in Educational Technology Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online master’s in educational technology degree program?
Before starting an application to an online master’s in educational technology program, confirm all application requirements and deadlines with the school’s admissions office. They can also advise students on how to submit their application and supplemental materials. Currently, it’s common for schools to accept applications and supporting materials online, although some schools may require hard copies of transcripts.
If you’re applying to multiple schools, stay organized with a spreadsheet or checklist. This will help ensure you submit all required application materials by the deadline.
How much does an online master’s in educational technology degree cost?
The cost of a degree varies by school, so for the most accurate information, students should speak directly with a financial aid counselor at the specific school they’re planning on attending.
On average, a master’s in education degree costs $59,840, according to EducationData.org. In-state students at a public university can expect to pay less than out-of-state students or those who attend private institutions.
In addition to tuition, most schools charge fees for instructional technology, student support services, and academic resources. However, online students can expect to save money on transportation costs and living expenses. They may also be able to offset the cost of the program by working while enrolled.
How long does it take to earn an online master’s in educational technology degree?
The number of credits required by individual programs, experiential learning expectations, and a student’s pace determine the time spent to earn a master’s in educational technology degree. Normally, students take two years to complete a program. Much depends on an individual student’s rate of progress. Completion is possible in 18 months by taking 12 to 15 credits each semester. Some schools offer an accelerated program that requires more credits each session.
Is an online master's in educational technology degree worth it?
A master’s degree in education technology can help students advance in their chosen careers and open doors in other industries. This degree also prepares students to continue their education to the Ph.D. level if they choose.
The average salary for an instructional designer with a master’s degree is $64,443. Corporate training and learning positions tend to pay more than those in the education sector.
An online master’s degree in education technology allows students to get a full graduate degree experience while still being able to work around other responsibilities, such as full-time jobs and families. Internships and research opportunities are readily available, and the classroom layout still lets you build connections with faculty and other students.
This degree option also gives you hands-on experience with digital learning environments and tools, giving you an advantage when designing these same elements for others.