Online master’s in education degrees at KU: M.S.E.s, certificates and licensure endorsements

The University of Kansas School of Education and Human Sciences has been preparing educational leaders since 1909. Today, KU’s top-ranked online master’s in education, certificate, and licensure programs combine a legacy of excellence with the flexibility working educators and professionals need. Whether you're advancing in special education, curriculum development, or educational leadership, you'll join a community of over 165,000 Jayhawk alumni who are making a difference in schools and communities worldwide.

If you’re eager to shape how students learn, KU’s Curriculum and Teaching programs give you the skills to design innovative, effective instruction. You can pursue a full master’s degree in curriculum and instruction to build expertise in instructional strategies and educational technology, or choose the TESOL master’s program to focus on empowering multilingual learners. For those looking for shorter or more specialized options, KU also offers a graduate certificate in TESOL as well as a TESOL licensure endorsement. Each program connects theory with practice, helping you create inclusive and engaging learning experiences for every student.

Strong, supportive leadership is essential for schools to thrive. KU’s Educational Leadership programs prepare you to take on those roles with confidence. The M.S.E. in educational administration provides the knowledge and practical experience to lead at the building or district level, while the graduate certificate in PK-12 educational administration offers a shorter path to focused leadership expertise. Both options can provide you with licensure endorsement and emphasize policy, staff development, and strategies for creating positive, successful school environments.

KU is nationally recognized for its leadership in Special Education, offering multiple pathways to support learners with disabilities. Master’s programs are available in autism, high incidence disabilities, and secondary special education and transition, each designed to give you both the theory and practical tools to foster student success. For more targeted study, you can pursue a graduate certificate in autism, a graduate certificate in secondary and special education transition, or a graduate certificate in leadership in special and inclusive education. KU also offers the high incidence disabilities licensure endorsement for educators looking to add specialized credentials to their teaching license. No matter which path you choose, these programs prepare you to build inclusive environments where all learners can thrive.

Research-to-practice approach

Address real-world teaching challenges through applied assignments and mentoring. Your students and career start benefiting immediately as you put new knowledge and skills to work, with each course building on the others.

Flexible online format designed for working professionals

Complete coursework anytime, anywhere through KU's innovative online learning system. Eight-week courses fit your schedule and hone your focus, with asynchronous learning balanced by interactive group projects and meaningful collaboration with classmates nationwide.

A master’s degree education, graduate certificate, or licensure can lead to higher teacher salaries and greater job security.³ Whether you're aiming for classroom leadership or community-level impact, KU programs prepare you for meaningful career advancement.

• 95% of alumni surveyed report they are able to use what they learned in their program in their current role⁴
• 93% of KU SOEHS alumni surveyed would recommend KU's online programs to a friend or colleague⁴

Explore Career Outcomes

KU's School of Education and Human Sciences faculty represent some of the most accomplished educators and researchers in their fields. They serve on nonprofit boards, lead national organizations, and conduct groundbreaking research at renowned centers like the Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities and the Center for Research on Learning.

At KU, you'll be mentored by professionals who understand both the theoretical foundations and daily realities of education.

Meet the Faculty

Join the Jayhawk community and discover why educators nationwide choose KU for their professional growth. With flexible scheduling, expert faculty, and programs ranked among the nation's best, your path to educational leadership starts here.

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