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Do you love children and teaching? Are you looking to empower today’s youth? Check out the Best Master’s in Secondary Education Degrees today!
Secondary educators will always be needed. In every state, city, and town, there are kids looking to learn, grow, and become successful in whatever career paths they choose. Middle and high school teachers have a huge impact on their students. From helping them find their niche to encouraging them to follow their dreams, educators are much more than test graders and curriculum creators. If you’re passionate about spreading knowledge and helping others, a degree in secondary education may be perfect for you.
What kind of Secondary Education degree should you get?
Once you decide to pursue a career in Secondary Education, it can be difficult to decide what type of degree to get. Should you attend an online college? An on-campus one? Should you choose a concentration or an area of expertise? Do you need a licensure or are you just looking for an advanced degree?
Those with a bachelor’s degree in the field won’t have as many opportunities as those with a more advanced degree, but all educators need to start somewhere! Whether you have a license or not, earning an advanced Master’s degree will open up many more doors for you. Some of the below programs offer licensure, while others do not. Be sure to choose the program that makes the most sense for you.
If you’re exploring other degrees and like the idea of working on your own schedule, College Choice has also ranked the overall Best Online Colleges and Universities for your convenience!
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How much money do people make with a Secondary Education degree?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, high school teachers make on average upwards of $58,000 a year. Of course, your salary will be contingent on the town you work in and whether you work in a public or private school.
High school teachers must have at least a bachelor’s degree. In addition, public school teachers must have a state-issued certification or license. Jobs in this field are expected to grow 8 percent by 2026. Most high school teachers have a bachelor’s degree in a specific area, like math or science, and an advanced degree in secondary education or some equivalent.
What can you do with a Master’s in Secondary Education?
Earning a master’s degree in Secondary Education will allow you to teach students in middle or high school. If you’re interested in teaching on an even more advanced level, you may be eligible for a position as an adjunct professor with this degree. Having a master’s in secondary education can open up plenty of doors in schools around the country. Just be sure to check on licensure requirements for the state you’re planning to teach in.
What are the requirements for obtaining a Master’s in Secondary Education?
Some programs will require students to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, while other programs will only ask for a GRE score. Some of the below programs also require graduate applicants to already have a teaching license. Once accepted into a master’s program for Secondary Education, you’ll most likely have to complete a certain number of hours of student teaching or an internship equivalent. More detailed requirements for each program can be found below!
What are the best Secondary Education degrees?
If you’ve already started looking around, you’ve noticed that there are a lot of Secondary Education programs out there. Not only that, but there are a plethora of different areas of specialization as well! We hope this College Choice ranking helps you find your perfect Secondary Education program to suit your career goals.
Looking forward to educating today’s high school students? College Choice has taken the stress out of finding the perfect program. In fact, we’ve ranked the 35 Best Online Master’s in Secondary Education Degrees for your convenience. Check them out below!
Best Online Master's in Secondary Education Degrees
We use trusted sources like
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
CollegeChoice.net is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Best Master’s In Secondary Education Degrees
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
Liberty University offers 68 master's degrees, including a master's in middle grades education that earns top marks. The program serves students seeking advanced education and increased career opportunities. Flexible enrollment options appeal to working professionals who need to schedule classes around other responsibilities.
Learners strengthen their theoretical and practical understanding of middle grades education through the program's challenging curriculum. Degree candidates can often complete internships and other hands-on learning opportunities, gaining varied experience while building professional connections. Concentrations and electives let learners individualize the program based on their interests and professional goals.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Location: Lynchburg, Virginia
School Type: Private
Admission Rate: 51%
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,980
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,980
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 99%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,417
Out-of-state
$15,417
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,980
Out-of-state
$7,980
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
85,586
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Master’s In Secondary Education Degrees
California State University, Fullerton
Fullerton, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
The master of science in transformative teaching in secondary education at California State University, Fullerton is one of the school's 49 master's degrees. The program allows students to grow their earning potential and advance their careers. Flexible enrollment options appeal to working professionals who need to schedule classes around other responsibilities.
The curriculum blends theoretical and practical approaches to secondary education to encourage a comprehensive understanding of the field. Degree-seekers gain real-world experience during internships and other hands-on learning opportunities. Learners specialize their education by choosing electives and concentrations.
California State University, Fullerton at a Glance:
Location: Fullerton, California
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 53%
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,176
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,680
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 77%
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $8,905
Average Price After Aid: $8,294
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
53%
Students Enrolled
40,445
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#3 Best Master’s In Secondary Education Degrees
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, GA
4 years
Online + Campus
The master's in secondary and middle grades education at Kennesaw State University appeals to students seeking career advancement. This Kennesaw, Georgia-based public school serves degree candidates of all types, with online enrollment options to accommodate working professionals. Degree-seekers take advanced courses in secondary and middle grades education that build on their prior training.
College resources and support services provide guidance to master's candidates throughout their program. Academic advisors can help with course selections, while financial aid counselors ensure students can fund their education. Master's degree-seekers can also participate in tutoring sessions, counseling programs, and networking events.
Kennesaw State University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 43
Total Online Master's Programs: 20
Admission Rate: 75%
Graduation Rate: 46%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,328
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,188
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,450
Out-of-state
$15,704
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,328
Out-of-state
$19,188
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
37,807
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Master’s In Secondary Education Degrees
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GA
4 years
Online + Campus
Students seeking career advancement benefit from the master of education in secondary education at Georgia Southern University. The public institution welcomes degree-seekers with a variety of enrollment options, including online programs created with working professionals in mind. Learners build on their undergraduate knowledge to gain an advanced understanding of secondary education.
Master's candidates benefit from the university's support services, which include academic and career services. For example, financial aid counselors recommend scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. Master's degree-seekers can also take advantage of career counseling, writing tutoring, and extensive library services.
Georgia Southern University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 54
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Admission Rate: 54%
Graduation Rate: 50%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,977
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,890
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $36,800
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,371
Out-of-state
$15,425
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,977
Out-of-state
$19,890
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
26,054
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
#5 Best Master’s In Secondary Education Degrees
American College of Education
Indianapolis, IN
4 years
Online
For students looking to advance their career, American College of Education hosts a master of arts in secondary teaching. The private institution offers several enrollment options on its Indianapolis, Indiana, campus and through its online programs. Enrollees complete a challenging, graduate-level curriculum that builds an advanced understanding of secondary teaching.
Master's candidates benefit from a generous selection of college resources and support services. For example, career counselors host workshops and job fairs while also recommending resume changes. Master's degree-seekers also take advantage of training and networking events.
American College of Education at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 16
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,894
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $4,894
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,755
Out-of-state
$4,755
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,894
Out-of-state
$4,894
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
6,057
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Best Master’s In Secondary Education Degrees
Mississippi State University
Mississippi State, MS
4 years
Online + Campus
Students seeking career advancement benefit from the master of arts in teaching secondary education program at Mississippi State University. The public institution offers graduate programs in several enrollment formats, including online options designed for working professionals. The master's in teaching secondary education builds on undergraduate knowledge. Applicants without a related background may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling.
College resources and support services help master's candidates participate fully in campus life and meet graduation requirements. For example, academic advisors recommend course selections and connect students with tutoring services. The university also offers library services, networking events, and more for graduate degree-seekers.
Mississippi State University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 57
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Admission Rate: 54%
Graduation Rate: 61%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,800
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,840
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $37,100
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,800
Out-of-state
$23,840
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,800
Out-of-state
$23,840
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
22,226
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
18%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Best Master’s In Secondary Education Degrees
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
For students seeking career advancement, University of Alabama at Birmingham offers a master's in high school education. The public university offers a variety of enrollment options for degree-seekers, including online programs. Degree candidates take graduate-level courses to strengthen their understanding of high school education.
College resources and support services help master's degree-seekers get the most out of graduate school. Academic advisors help with course selections, while career counselors offer workshops, job fairs, and resume reviews. Students can also take advantage of career counseling, writing tutoring, and extensive library services.
University of Alabama at Birmingham at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 58
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Admission Rate: 74%
Graduation Rate: 63%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,100
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,188
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $39,400
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,568
Out-of-state
$20,400
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,100
Out-of-state
$19,188
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
22,080
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Master’s In Secondary Education Degrees
Columbus State University
Columbus, GA
4 years
Online + Campus
The master of arts in teaching at Columbus State University is one of the school's 29 master's degrees. The program allows students to grow their earning potential and advance their careers. Programs offer flexible enrollment options that appeal to busy enrollees balancing school with other responsibilities.
Learners take theoretical and practical classes to gain a comprehensive knowledge of the field. Degree candidates often complete internships and other experiential learning opportunities to build career-ready skills. Concentrations and electives let learners specialize their education around particular fields.
Columbus State University at a Glance:
Location: Columbus, Georgia
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 79%
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,300
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,394
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 92%
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $7,346
Average Price After Aid: $11,361
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,371
Out-of-state
$15,425
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,300
Out-of-state
$11,394
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
7,877
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Master’s In Secondary Education Degrees
William Carey University
Hattiesburg, MS
4 years
Online + Campus
William Carey University enrolls learners in 40 master's programs, including a master of education. The program encourages career growth through its experiential learning components. Graduate programs prioritize flexibility through their enrollment options, which help degree-seekers balance school with work or other responsibilities.
The curriculum encourages a comprehensive understanding of secondary education through both theoretical and practical knowledge. Internships and experiential learning opportunities build professional connections and provide real-world experience. Learners select electives and concentrations to specialize their education in a specific area.
William Carey University at a Glance:
Location: Hattiesburg, Mississippi
School Type: Private
Admission Rate: 55%
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,600
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,600
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 99%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,850
Out-of-state
$11,850
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,600
Out-of-state
$9,600
Retention Rate
100%
Acceptance Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
5,040
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
43%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Master’s In Secondary Education Degrees
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
Students seeking career advancement benefit from the master of arts in teaching middle grades at University of North Carolina at Charlotte. This public school serves degree candidates of all types, with online enrollment options to accommodate working professionals. Degree-seekers take graduate-level courses in secondary education to enhance their understanding of the field.
Master's candidates access a generous selection of college resources and support services during their studies. For example, career counselors host mock interviews to prepare graduates for the workforce. Master's degree-seekers can also participate in tutoring sessions, counseling programs, and networking events.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 64
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Admission Rate: 65%
Graduation Rate: 64%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,337
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,771
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $38,600
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,812
Out-of-state
$17,246
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,337
Out-of-state
$17,771
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
29,615
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
#11 Best Master’s In Secondary Education Degrees
Saint Joseph's University
Philadelphia, PA
4 years
Online + Campus
The master of science in secondary education at Saint Joseph's University is one of the school's 43 master's degrees. The program allows students to grow their earning potential and advance their careers. Flexible enrollment options, including on-campus and online classes, help degree-seekers fit school into their busy schedules.
Learners strengthen their theoretical and practical understanding of secondary education through the program's challenging curriculum. Students prepare for the workforce with internships and other hands-on learning opportunities. Candidates may also be able to choose a concentration, building specialized skills in a specific area of secondary education.
Saint Joseph's University at a Glance:
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
School Type: Private
Admission Rate: 75%
Graduate Tuition In State: $17,334
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,334
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 98%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$46,350
Out-of-state
$46,350
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,334
Out-of-state
$17,334
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
7,362
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
33%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#12 Best Master’s In Secondary Education Degrees
Southeast Missouri State University
Cape Girardeau, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
Southeast Missouri State University enrolls learners in 39 master's degrees, including a master's in secondary education. The program incorporates career-focused training to help students advance their professional opportunities. At the school, programs offer flexible enrollment options that appeal to busy degree-seekers balancing school with other responsibilities.
The curriculum uses theoretical and practical approaches to encourage a comprehensive understanding of secondary education. Students build valuable professional connections during internships and other hands-on learning opportunities. Learners select electives and concentrations to specialize their education in a specific area.
Southeast Missouri State University at a Glance:
Location: Cape Girardeau, Missouri
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 86%
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,242
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,796
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 96%
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $6,845
Average Price After Aid: $12,350
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,606
Out-of-state
$12,636
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,242
Out-of-state
$9,796
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
10,637
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#13 Best Master’s In Secondary Education Degrees
University of West Alabama
Livingston, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
University of West Alabama enrolls learners in 15 master's programs, including a master of education. The program builds advanced knowledge and skills, helping students increase their career opportunities. Graduate programs offer flexible enrollment options that make it easier for degree-seekers to fit classes into their schedule.
The program uses a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes theoretical and practical approaches to secondary education. Students prepare for the workforce with internships and other hands-on learning opportunities. Concentrations and electives allow learners to customize the degree based on their career goals.
University of West Alabama at a Glance:
Location: Livingston, Alabama
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 35%
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,678
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,356
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 97%
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $6,274
Average Price After Aid: $15,383
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 Best Master’s In Secondary Education Degrees
DePaul University
Chicago, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
DePaul University offers several career-focused graduate programs, including a master's in secondary education. The private university, located in Chicago, Illinois, provides several enrollment options for degree-seekers, including online options designed for working professionals. Degree candidates complete a challenging, graduate-level curriculum that builds an advanced understanding of secondary education.
College resources and support services help master's candidates participate fully in campus life and meet graduation requirements. Academic advisors help with course selections, while financial aid counselors connect students with ways to pay for their education. Master's degree-seekers also participate in tutoring sessions, counseling programs, and networking events.
DePaul University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 126
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Admission Rate: 68%
Graduation Rate: 74%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $19,584
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,584
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $46,000
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$40,551
Out-of-state
$40,551
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$19,584
Out-of-state
$19,584
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
22,064
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
30%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#15 Best Master’s In Secondary Education Degrees
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
Northern Arizona University offers a top-ranked bachelor's in secondary education as one of its 62 master's degrees. Students advance their training and increase their career opportunities in the program. Flexible enrollment options appeal to working professionals who need to schedule classes around their other responsibilities.
The program uses a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes theoretical and practical approaches to secondary education. Degree candidates prepare for the workforce with internships and other hands-on learning opportunities. Faculty advisors help learners choose electives and concentrations to specialize their education.
Northern Arizona University at a Glance:
Location: Flagstaff, Arizona
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 85%
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,305
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,522
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 95%
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $12,831
Average Price After Aid: $14,236
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,018
Out-of-state
$16,613
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,305
Out-of-state
$19,522
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
30,733
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
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