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Online master’s in education degrees at KU
#2
Best Online Master’s in Education Programs - Special Education1
#10
Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration Programs1
#14
Best Online Master’s in Education Programs for Veterans1
#20
Best Education Schools2
#38
Best Online Master’s in Education Programs1
Top-ranked programs you can afford
Choose the best
The University of Kansas School of Education and Human Sciences is consistently ranked among the best by U.S. News & World Report, including the No.2 Best Online Master’s in Special Education Program in the nation.1
Invest in your future
A master’s degree education, graduate certificate, or licensure can lead to higher teacher salaries (an average of 8.2% for starting salaries) and greater job security3
Learn on your schedule
Convenient online graduate programs designed to flex around your full-time work and life commitments.
Hear straight from our students
Creating impactful online learning experiences that lead to improved career and classroom outcomes is a key focus of our online master’s degree program. Alum Sydney C. credits her experiences as a KU student for bringing her new leadership roles, community connections, and a renewed enthusiasm for education.
I've made connections here that I didn't make in brick-and-mortar schools. This is the place to be if you want to build a caring community, and be truly knowledgeable, and feel like you have a solid foundation in education.
Sydney C., M.S.E., ‘20 in Special Education: High Incidence Disabilities, Graduate Autism Certificate
Master of Science in Education (M.S.E.) Programs
Curriculum & instruction programs
* Teacher track and non-teacher track are available
Special and inclusive education programs
**Master’s building leadership track and master’s non-licensure track are available
Education administration & leadership policy programs
*** Master's building leadership track and master's non-licensure track are available
Join a community of fellow educators
Video Transcript
Dr. Joe Novak:
I think the largest challenge that we face and will always face as school administrators and I emphasize throughout my courses is the proactive and reflective approach to school leadership versus the impulsive and reactive approach. As an individual, I can only give you one perspective, but the more perspectives I receive by being reflective from the people who are offering them, I think the better decision is rendered and also the better there is a buy in from the staff and the community in protecting that organization. Driving that organization together, looking out for that organization.
Deborah Perbeck:
The program has, I think, a wonderful balance of theory and practical application. A degree in educational administration really helps prepare you for positions of leadership in schools, as well as in school districts.
Dr. Joe Novak:
The ideal student for the program of educational leadership is any person who truly believes that they would like to make a difference at a larger level than within their classroom.
I think the largest challenge that we face and will always face as school administrators and I emphasize throughout my courses is the proactive and reflective approach to school leadership versus the impulsive and reactive approach. As an individual, I can only give you one perspective, but the more perspectives I receive by being reflective from the people who are offering them, I think the better decision is rendered and also the better there is a buy in from the staff and the community in protecting that organization. Driving that organization together, looking out for that organization.
Deborah Perbeck:
The program has, I think, a wonderful balance of theory and practical application. A degree in educational administration really helps prepare you for positions of leadership in schools, as well as in school districts.
Dr. Joe Novak:
The ideal student for the program of educational leadership is any person who truly believes that they would like to make a difference at a larger level than within their classroom.
The University of Kansas School of Education and Human Sciences offers a variety of online master’s degree programs, graduate certificates and licensure endorsements to meet the needs of today's teachers, administrators, specialists and other education professionals.
Content and resources
Admission requirements
Review the necessary admissions requirements for an online master’s degree program or graduate certificate at the University of Kansas.
Financial aid options
Learn more about your options for financing the master’s degree education or graduate program of your choice.
Online experience
Discover how students collaborate and develop their professional potential through our online classroom.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get my master’s in teaching or graduate certificate online?
Yes, you can complete your master’s degree education or graduate teaching certificate completely online. In our online master’s degree programs and licensure tracks, students study under the same award-winning faculty members and complete the same rigorous curriculum as in our on-ground programs, but also enjoy a highly personalized classroom experience within a flexible format. You’ll be able to attend virtual classes and complete your coursework anywhere, at any time, through our robust, interactive online learning management system (LMS).
Is a master’s degree in education worth it?
To prepare for a career at the best academic institutions, you have to garner the credentials and experience worthy of them. In terms of making yourself more marketable, there are several benefits to earning your online master’s in education:
And, of course, there’s the pay. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, your earnings increase along with your master’s degree education; conversely, your likelihood of unemployment decreases. Across the board, workers who hold master’s degrees earn 16% more than those with bachelor’s degrees, which, over time, can create a sizable difference in your quality of life.4
- Teaches you advanced topics that weren’t covered in your undergraduate classes
- Gives you an esteemed, industry-recognized title that conveys a broad skill set and deeper knowledge
- Provides insights into the education system and its policies and procedures
- Demonstrates to employers that you’re committed to your craft and invested in your professional growth
And, of course, there’s the pay. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, your earnings increase along with your master’s degree education; conversely, your likelihood of unemployment decreases. Across the board, workers who hold master’s degrees earn 16% more than those with bachelor’s degrees, which, over time, can create a sizable difference in your quality of life.4
What can I do with a master’s in education?
No matter the concentration you choose, an online master’s in education will position you to succeed in a variety of roles, such as:
You can find more career options and salary information on our Careers page.
- Preschool, elementary, middle school, high school, or special education teacher
- Principal
- Superintendent
- Curriculum developer
- Education consultant
- Instructional coordinator
- Education policy analyst
You can find more career options and salary information on our Careers page.
Sources
- Retrieved on March 17, 2025, from usnews.com/education/online-education/university-of-kansas-155317
- Retrieved on March 17, 2025, from usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-education-schools/edu-rankings
- Retrieved on March 17, 2025, from nea.org/resource-library/educator-pay-and-student-spending-how-does-your-state-rank/starting-teacher
- Retrieved on March 17, 2025, from bls.gov/careeroutlook/2015/article/should-i-get-a-masters-degree.htm