Most Affordable Online Master's In Education Degrees

An online master's in educational counseling degree prepares graduates to take state and national licensure tests to practice as a counselor in their state of

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Master's in Educational Counseling

An online master's in educational counseling prepares graduates to work alongside teachers and school administrators to provide K-12 students with counseling needs. They may help students with early career planning or provide support to students who have experienced trauma. Because teachers primarily teach a class and cannot sit with each student individually, counselors are just as important to helping students along their educational path.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), projects jobs for school and career counselors to grow 11% between 2020-2030. This percentage growth exceeds the national average for all occupations. School counselors may work in public, private, urban, or rural environments.

This page features the most affordable online master's in educational counseling degrees. It also covers salary information, degree pathways, and typical school counselor job responsibilities.

What Type of Master's in Educational Counseling Should You Get?

An online program benefits working students with busy schedules. Since many counseling degrees require teaching experience, some applicants prefer to continue their jobs while enrolled in school. Online programs provide flexibility and affordability for degree-seekers. An online educational counseling master's degree often takes as little as two years to finish.

Many aspiring educational counselors pursue a master of education (M.Ed.) with a concentration in school counseling. Other options include a master of science (MS) or a master of arts (MA) in counseling, with a focus on school counseling. MS degrees provide the necessary education and training for learners who want to gain licensure to work as a counselor. People interested in doing research may benefit more from earning an MA degree.

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Online Master's Educational Counseling Programs

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How Much Money Do People Make With a Master's in Educational Counseling?

According to Dec. 2021 Payscale data, graduates with a M.Ed. in school counseling earn an average annual salary of $51,000. School counselors with 20 years or more of experience earn average salaries of $68,000 per year. Working in private or public education affects salary potential. Earnings also vary by school district and geographical location. According to BLS data, California, New York, and Texas employ the highest number of school counselors.

Added benefits for counselors can include retirement plans, paid vacation and sick days, and transportation reimbursements. New counselors should look into the long-term benefits and not just the starting salary when they first join a new school.

What Can You Do With a Master's in Educational Counseling?

An online master's in educational counseling degree prepares graduates to take state and national licensure tests to practice as a counselor in their state of residence. Students gain training in counseling theory, child and adolescent psychology, career counseling, and personal evaluation. Upon degree completion, graduates can perform counseling tasks in K-12 settings.

Educational counselors typically create counseling programs, meet with students, and evaluate students using assessment tools. They also provide crisis intervention. Because many schools tend to only employ a few counselors, they may work with a large group of students.

What Are the Requirements for a Master's in Educational Counseling?

Applicants to online master's in educational counseling programs need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school and a competitive GPA. Schools may also ask for GRE test scores, recommendation letters, and essays. In addition, students might need to provide documentation of teaching experience.

Because a master’s in educational counseling often requires an internship in schools, learners may need to undergo a background check before enrolling. Applicants should pay attention to important deadlines and get all the necessary documents to ensure a smooth application.

What Are the Best Online Master's in Educational Counseling?

College Choice has compiled a list of the 30 most affordable online master’s in educational counseling degrees. We choose and ranked these schools based on institutional excellence and student success. Institutional excellence was decided based on various data points such as graduation rate, entering students’ test scores, and student-to-faculty ratio. Student success was based on tuition costs, financial aid, and average student debt after graduating.

Our data comes from the National Center for Education Statistics’ IPEDS database, Payscale, individual college websites, and the U.S. News & World Report.

Featured Online Counseling Programs

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

Top Ranking Master's in Educational Counseling

See our rankings methodology page.

#1 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

Southeastern Oklahoma State University

  • Durant, OK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s master of education in school counseling ranks highly among similar programs and should be of particular interest to educational counseling students wanting to study online. The program equips learners with advanced training that can lead to career advancement in their field. The program gives graduates the credential they need to pursue a terminal degree like a doctorate.

Many learners must tend to work or family commitments, and this flexible program accommodates that need. Another key benefit is the support enrollees receive from faculty. Degree-seekers also benefit from a robust academic community, whether they study on campus or online.

For consideration, applicants usually need a bachelor's degree. The admittance rate to this school is 74%, with some differences possible across programs. Once accepted, students pay $4,716 per year in in-state tuition, with grants, loans, and scholarships popular funding streams for those who qualify.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,240
Out-of-state
$14,880
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,716
Out-of-state
$10,872
Retention Rate
62%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
5,049
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
80% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

University of Louisiana at Monroe

  • Monroe, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate degrees at the University of Louisiana at Monroe. Learners with a bachelor's degree in educational counseling may find the master of science in counseling with a school counseling track especially appealing. The degree provides the rigorous education expected from a graduate program using a flexible online format.

Degree candidates study in classes with an 18-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that is conducive to personalized learning. The curriculum immerses learners in advanced knowledge and training in educational counseling. It prepares graduates with the academic training necessary to succeed in a competitive workforce or a doctoral program.

Louisiana enrollees pay a yearly average of $6,490, while out-of-state students pay $18,590. Financial aid such as grants and scholarships helps many degree-seekers afford their education. Learners can also apply for student loans, which about 41% of this institution's enrollees use.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,788
Out-of-state
$17,888
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,490
Out-of-state
$18,590
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
8,673
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

The University of Tennessee-Martin

  • Martin, TN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Tennessee-Martin administers many quality online graduate programs. Learners with a bachelor's degree in educational counseling may find the master of science in education with a major in counseling of particular interest. Enrollees can complete the graduate curriculum remotely, ensuring they have more control over their schedules.

The 15-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio is a big draw for degree candidates who want more individualized attention and faculty mentorship opportunities. The biggest attraction is the educational attainment acquired when learners complete a rigorous curriculum delivered by educational counseling experts. The training learners receive is an important step for career advancement or a doctoral degree in this field and related ones.

Making tuition competitive is a school priority, and Tennessee residents pay an average of $9,096 annually. Out-of-state residents pay $15,136. The financial aid options available to qualifying students include grants and scholarships to help fund their master’s. When you add in student loans, used by about 43% of enrollees, there are plenty of ways to finance all or part of a program.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,214
Out-of-state
$14,254
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,096
Out-of-state
$15,136
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
7,280
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

North Carolina Central University

  • Durham, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The master's in school counseling program at North Carolina Central University is a top-ranked degree designed for online educational counseling students. Learners acquire advanced skills that employers want in middle- to high-level professionals. The program gives graduates the credential they need to pursue a terminal degree like a doctorate.

This school’s online format attracts enrollees who see the appeal of remote learning. A big part of this program's allure is that it allows students to manage other aspects of their lives without sacrificing their education. Degree candidates also like the fact that whether they study in person or online, faculty serve as mentors who can adequately prepare them for advanced work.

Prospective students need a bachelor’s to apply to this program. The admission rate is an average of 68% of applicants. Tuition stands at around $4,740 per year for people who live in North Carolina. Learners can help fund their education with grants, loans, and scholarships.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,728
Out-of-state
$16,435
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,740
Out-of-state
$17,694
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
8,011
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

Angelo State University

  • San Angelo, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Angelo State University offers many graduate programs through its online platform. A notable option is the master of science in professional school counseling developed for learners with a bachelor’s in educational counseling. Enrollees complete a  rigorous curriculum using a flexible format that accommodates their schedules.

Degree-seekers study in classes with a 20-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that is conducive to personalized learning. The biggest attraction is the educational attainment acquired when learners complete a rigorous curriculum delivered by educational counseling experts. The program prepares graduates with the academic training necessary to succeed in a competitive workforce or a doctoral program.

Tuition for Texas students is $4,059 per year, while tuition for out-of-state students is $11,655. Learners can reduce their educational expenses by qualifying for grants and scholarships, which many do at the institution. The comprehensive suite of financial aid options also include students loans, which about 35% of the school’s enrollees use to fund some or all of their education.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,332
Out-of-state
$14,460
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,059
Out-of-state
$11,655
Retention Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
10,568
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

Southern Arkansas University Main Campus

  • Magnolia, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Southern Arkansas University Main Campus enrolls students in one of the nation’s best master's in school counseling programs for online educational counseling degree-seekers. The program prepares learners for high-level career opportunities not always available to those who hold a bachelor’s alone. The degree gives graduates the credential they need to pursue a terminal degree like a doctorate.

Learners like the fact that this program’s format helps them more efficiently manage their time. This flexibility gives students more control over their schedules and makes it easier to juggle multiple priorities. Enrollees also like the fact that faculty serve as mentors, and they study in an environment that sees each learner’s potential.

Though the department can provide more information, the application requirements include a bachelor’s degree and transcripts. The admittance rate to this school is 65%, with some differences possible across programs. Once accepted, in-state degree-seekers pay $5,040 annually in tuition. Grants, loans, and scholarships are some of the most popular funding streams for those who qualify.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,420
Out-of-state
$10,920
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,040
Out-of-state
$7,920
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
4,475
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

Lamar University

  • Beaumont, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Lamar University is home to rigorous graduate programs, some available online. Learners who hold a bachelor's degree in educational counseling may especially be interested in the school's master of education in counseling and development. This program emphasizes rigorous academics and a flexible learning format.

Master's degree-seekers benefit from the school's 18-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio. Learners complete specialized coursework and training focused on advanced theoretical concepts and practices in educational counseling. The program prepares graduates with the academic training necessary to succeed in a competitive workforce or a doctoral program.

Texas enrollees pay an annual tuition of $6,324 while out-of-state learners pay $13,920. Many degree-seekers work with the financial aid department to identify aid such as scholarships and grants. Another option includes student loans, with about 43% of enrollees using them to finance all or part of their degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,032
Out-of-state
$16,160
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,324
Out-of-state
$13,920
Retention Rate
66%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
15,460
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
73% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

University of Southern Mississippi

  • Hattiesburg, MS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The master of education in school counseling program at the University of Southern Mississippi maintains high ranking among similar online programs. Learners acquire advanced skills that employers want in middle- to high-level professionals. Some master's graduates go on to pursue a doctorate.

A big draw to this program is the convenient online format that many learners appreciate. This flexibility gives students more control over their schedules and makes it easier to juggle multiple priorities. Enrollees also like the fact that whether they study in person or online, faculty serve as mentors who can adequately prepare them for advanced work.

The application requirements include a bachelor’s degree, unless the program states otherwise. The school accepts around 97% of all who apply, though different programs have different averages. Popular funding streams for qualifying students include loans and scholarships. Tuition costs Mississippi residents about $8,786 per year.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,786
Out-of-state
$10,786
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,786
Out-of-state
$10,786
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
14,133
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
70% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

University of Massachusetts-Boston

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Massachusetts-Boston has a reputation for developing rigorous online graduate programs. The master's in counseling is one of those degrees, designed for students with a bachelor’s in educational counseling or a related field. Enrollees complete an accredited curriculum with little need to relocate or give up their full-time jobs.

Enrollees study in classes with a 16-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that is conducive to personalized learning. They acquire the advanced training employers want in potential hires knowledgeable about educational counseling best practices. The training learners receive is an important step for career advancement or a doctoral degree in this field and related ones.

Tuition for Massachusetts students is $18,433 per year, while out-of-state enrollees pay $35,980. Many degree-seekers reduce this bill with grants and scholarships from the school and third parties. Student loans are another option, with about 51% of enrollees using this popular funding stream to afford their education.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,187
Out-of-state
$34,649
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,433
Out-of-state
$35,980
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
15,989
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#10 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

The University of Texas at Tyler

  • Tyler, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate degrees at The University of Texas at Tyler. The master's in school counseling may be of particular interest to holders of a bachelor’s in counseling. The program blends academic rigor and online course delivery that is flexible and affordable.

Degree candidates study in classes with an 18-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that is conducive to personalized learning. The curriculum immerses learners in advanced knowledge and training in school counseling. Graduates leave the program well-prepared for careers in academia, business and industry, or a doctoral program in some cases.

The institution charges Texas students $5,850 in tuition per year and $14,328 for those living elsewhere. The financial aid options available to qualifying students include grants and scholarships. Student loans are also available, with 34% of enrollees using them to finance all or part of their degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,540
Out-of-state
$20,760
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,850
Out-of-state
$14,328
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
9,617
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#11 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

University of Central Arkansas

  • Conway, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Earning a graduate degree is achievable at the University of Central Arkansas because of an institutional emphasis on flexibility. Learners can choose the master of science in school counseling from 10 online master's programs, some of them top-ranked degrees offered from the Conway, Arkansas, school. People who may have had challenges pursuing graduate school because of their hectic schedules can appreciate this degree’s flexibility.

A bachelor’s in the major is a typical requirement for many master’s programs, but criteria vary depending on the degree. A big draw to a master’s degree like this one is the intensive coursework that provides enrollees with advanced preparation in their field. The degree may satisfy the entry requirements for a Ph.D. program in this field.

The school keeps tuition competitive with $5,018 per year for Arkansas residents. Out-of-state degree-seekers pay $10,037 annually. Learners can use resources at the financial aid department to determine if they qualify for financial aid like grants and scholarships. In addition to financial aid students don’t need to pay back, they may also want to consider federal or private loans.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,810
Out-of-state
$13,620
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,018
Out-of-state
$10,037
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
10,869
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#12 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

North Carolina State University at Raleigh

  • Raleigh, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

North Carolina State University at Raleigh is home to many quality online graduate programs. The master of education in counselor education is an excellent choice for degree-holders with a bachelor’s in educational counseling who want to advance their careers in this field. This program emphasizes rigorous academics and a flexible learning format.

Learners benefit from a 14-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio. The curriculum immerses students in advanced knowledge and training in educational counseling. Graduates leave the program well-prepared for careers in academia, business and industry, or a doctoral program in some cases.

The institution charges North Carolina students $9,095 in tuition per year and $26,421 for those living elsewhere. Grants and scholarships help degree-seekers pay for their education if they qualify. The comprehensive suite of financial aid options also include students loans, which about 39% of the school’s enrollees use to fund some or all of their education.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,535
Out-of-state
$26,654
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,095
Out-of-state
$26,421
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
36,304
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#13 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

University of West Alabama

  • Livingston, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Earning a graduate educational counseling degree is achievable at the University of West Alabama because of an institutional emphasis on flexibility. From the Livingston campus, the school delivers 14 online master's degrees that include a master's in school counseling. A busy schedule is no barrier to graduate education with degrees such as this program.

Applicants should review the program page for more admissions information, but a bachelor’s is usually a starting point for a master's program. Enrollees receive advanced preparation through an intensive curriculum that may involve research opportunities and other hands-on experience. The program also provides the foundational knowledge for a Ph.D.

Tuition rate depends on residency. Alabama students pay $6,678 per year and out-of-state learners pay $13,356. Education funding options include institutional scholarships and grants. Degree candidates can also explore opportunities through foundations and other nonprofits. Students can help pay for a graduate degree with federal loans.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,100
Out-of-state
$18,200
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,678
Out-of-state
$13,356
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
35%
Students Enrolled
5,653
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
77% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#14 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

Adams State University

  • Alamosa, CO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

At Adams State University, prospective graduate students receive advanced preparation in degrees designed for busy learners. The Alamosa, Colorado-based school offers several top-ranked degrees such as the master's in school counseling. This adaptable program opens up access to full-time workers and others with scheduling challenges preventing in-person graduate education.

Applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree or a related credential to apply to master’s programs. The program provides advanced education beyond a bachelor’s, preparing enrollees for career advancement and other opportunities. Another benefit of this degree is preparation for a doctoral program or another terminal credential.

The school charges Colorado residents $4,590 per year in tuition. Out-of-state learners pay $7,830 per year. Degree candidates can apply for grants and scholarships to help pay for their degree. In addition to financial aid students don’t need to pay back, they may also want to consider federal or private loans.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,736
Out-of-state
$17,160
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,590
Out-of-state
$7,830
Retention Rate
59%
Acceptance Rate
99%
Students Enrolled
3,114
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#15 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

Edinboro University of Pennsylvania

  • Edinboro, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The master's in counseling at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania is a top-ranked degree designed for online educational counseling students. The program prepares learners for high-level careers not always available to those who hold a bachelor’s alone. Some graduates go on to pursue a doctorate.

The convenient online format makes this school an especially good choice for many. The program helps degree candidates manage various aspects of their lives without sacrificing the advanced education a master’s degree provides. The school's academic environment is supportive and student-focused, whether enrollees study in person or online.

The application requirements include a bachelor’s degree, unless the program states otherwise. About 83% of applicants get accepted to this school on average, but applicants may find that programs have different averages. Degree-seekers can use financial aid such as loans and grants to pay the annual tuition, which is approximately $9,288 for Pennsylvania residents.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,716
Out-of-state
$11,574
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,288
Out-of-state
$13,932
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
4,646
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#16 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

University of North Dakota

  • Grand Forks, ND
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Prospective graduate students searching for flexibility should consider University of North Dakota for an educational counseling degree. The  Grand Forks-based school offers a ranked master's in counseling in its catalog of 28 online master's programs. A busy schedule is no barrier to graduate education with degrees such as this program.

Applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree or a related credential. The enhanced job opportunities and potentially higher pay make this degree a worthy pursuit for many learners. Degree recipients can pursue a Ph.D. or other terminal degree.

The average tuition for students living in North Dakota is $10,534 per year and $18,434 if they live elsewhere. Many learners help foot the bill by securing grants and scholarships from the institution and outside sources. Loans offer a viable option to help fund students’ tuition bill.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,212
Out-of-state
$14,371
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,534
Out-of-state
$18,434
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
13,581
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#17 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

Texas A&M University-System Office

  • College Station, TX
  • 4 years
  • Campus

College Station-based Texas A&M University-System Office is a public college with graduate programs in different fields. One of these is the master's in educational psychology.

The program lets students earn an advanced degree without sacrificing rigor or other obligations. Busy enrollees may have access to recorded videos that facilitates anytime viewing. They can also complete their assignments within a reasonable timeframe as faculty allow. Strong career preparation is a key feature of the program, which does not sacrifice rigor for convenience.

For consideration, applicants need a bachelor's degree unless otherwise stated. They may also need to submit official transcripts and recommendation letters, which the department outlines in its admissions policy.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
Not provided
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
No

#18 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

Mercy College

  • Dobbs Ferry, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Mercy College is home to several quality online graduate programs. A notable option is the master of science in school counseling. The program is developed for learners with a bachelor’s in educational counseling. Enrollees benefit from a rigorous curriculum and a flexible online format.

The school features a 17-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio. The biggest attraction is the educational attainment acquired when learners complete a rigorous curriculum delivered by educational counseling experts. Graduates leave the program equipped for more advanced career opportunities and the option to pursue a doctoral program.

The school charges an annual tuition of $16,146. Grants and scholarships, both from the school and from third parties, can help reduce this cost. The comprehensive suite of financial aid options also includes students loans, which about 55% of the school’s enrollees use to fund some or all of their education.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$18,934
Out-of-state
$18,934
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,146
Out-of-state
$16,146
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
10,557
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
36% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#19 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

University of Missouri-Columbia

  • Columbia, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Missouri-Columbia’s master of education program ranks highly among similar programs and may be of particular interest to educational counseling students wanting to study online. Learners pursue this degree to build on prior knowledge attained in a bachelor’s. Those who complete the master of education program can also choose to pursue a terminal degree, such as a Ph.D.

Many degree candidates see the appeal of remote learning, which is a draw for the school. Students report being able to continue their careers and engage in family life without sacrificing a master’s degree. Enrollees also like the fact that faculty serve as mentors, and they study in an environment that sees each learner’s potential.

For consideration, applicants need a bachelor’s  unless otherwise stated. The data from this school show an 81% admission rate, but expect some variances across programs. Once accepted, students can explore financial aid options to help pay for tuition, which stands at around $9,264 per year for Missouri residents.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,120
Out-of-state
$26,991
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,264
Out-of-state
$25,363
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
30,014
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
32% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#20 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Education Degrees

Capella University

  • Minneapolis, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online

At Capella University, degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate programs. A notable option is the master of science in school counseling, developed for learners with a bachelor’s in educational counseling. The graduate program provides advanced training in a format friendly to those who work or must manage other obligations.

The school features a 27-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that benefits students. Learners complete specialized coursework and training focused on advanced theoretical concepts and practices in educational counseling. The training learners receive is an important step for career advancement or a doctoral degree in this field and related ones.

The institution charges an annual tuition of $14,767. Grants and scholarships help qualifying degree-seekers pay for their education. Enrollees can also apply for student loans, which about 61% of enrollees use at this school.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,148
Out-of-state
$14,148
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,767
Out-of-state
$14,767
Retention Rate
40%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
37,859
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

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