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Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Education: Top Programs

Whether you’re a licensed teacher seeking to enhance your skills and salary, hold a bachelor’s degree in a different field and aspire to become a teacher, or aim to pursue advanced roles in educational administration and instructional design, an online master’s degree in education can assist you in achieving your career goals in a format that accommodates your busy schedule.

Finding a high-quality, reasonably-priced online education master’s program from an accredited university has become easier than ever before. With this STEPS guide, discover an online master’s in education program that suits your budget and career objectives, as well as additional tips on obtaining financial assistance to pay for educational graduate school.

Author: Kathleen Curtis
Editor: STEPS Staff
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Inside Affordable Online Education Master’s Degrees: A Closer Look

Students working towards an online education master’s degree can secure funding from a variety of places, including the government, the school where they’ll earn their masters, and their employers. Some schools have lower online tuition rates than those charged for on-campus students, lowering the costs of tuition even further. An institution may reduce the advertised price for online students in the case of private schools. Finally, public schools sometimes let online learners pay the resident tuition rate regardless of where they live.

See some spotlighted school options below for details on what to expect in popular, cost-effective educational master’s programs.

Arizona State University (ASU)

The Online Master of Education in Higher and Postsecondary Education offered at Arizona State University features accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission and excellent faculty. The course focuses on providing students with the skills and leadership abilities to pursue careers with community colleges, universities, and other institutions. ASU also offers career services and research opportunities for students. This program will involve 30 total credits, 7.5 weeks per class, and 10 classes. Students can expect to complete this program within one year and six months.

Tuition and Fees: According to ASU’s tuition estimation calculator, part-time students can expect to pay around $8,440 for the academic year and full-time students will be looking at around $16,789 for the academic year. The calculator can be used to estimate both full-time and part-time tuition fees with adjusted breakdowns by credit hour, but keep in mind that the estimates will be provided without factoring in financial aid.

Financial Aid: Financial aid is available to ASU students, including federal and state aid, employer tuition benefits, and various other options. Students are able to pursue scholarships, payment plans, and transfer credits from previous institutions. Military assistance is available for veterans, active members, spouses, and dependents.

FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:

American College of Education (ACE)

American College of Education offers a Master’s in Education and a Master’s in Teaching Programs. The program prides itself on its flexible model designed with teachers in mind. The school also offers academic support with accessible faculty to ensure that students can access the networks they need to thrive in their studies. Students can select from about 17 programs, including but not limited to an M.Ed. in Advanced Studies, an M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education, an M.Ed. in Special Education, and more.

Tuition and Fees: Tuition will cost around $9,500, and students can expect to complete the program in around 15-20 months. Most M.Ed. programs offered at ACE will total around this sticker price, but students are encouraged to reach out to the school should they wish to research further information.

Financial Aid: Since ACE is a private institution, their for-profit nature means that the school does not accept federal financial aid such as Pell Grants or loans. Don’t let this discourage you, however, as private financing options and scholarships or grants are still accepted, and the school prides itself on its relatively affordable tuition overall.

Additional Costs: Graduates may be required to pursue additional steps such as licensures, endorsements, or certifications depending on the state they wish to pursue their work. Bear this in mind as this may add to the costs you need to budget for.

Walden University

The Online Master’s Degree in Education (MSEd) Program at Walden University features an offer that allows students to receive their final two courses tuition-free. Students are allowed to transfer up to 20 credits, ultimately taking the cost of their tuition down further. The school offers various specialization paths, which include Educational Leadership Administration, Elementary Reading and Literacy, Integrating Technology in the Classroom, and more.

Tuition and Fees: Tuition rates for Walden’s MS in Education are currently at $615 per quarter credit hour for coursework for the semester. Potential program fees may be added depending on the course you enroll in, so be sure to talk with the institution to get a full picture of what you can expect to pay.

Financial Aid: The school’s Office of Financial Aid (OFA) assists students with processing federal, state, and private financial aid. Student eligibility requirements for financial aid includes holding American citizenship, possessing a high-school diploma or equivalent, and more.

Strategies for Lowering the Cost of Your Online Education Master’s Degree

Luckily for students, making the cost of your education more affordable is possible once you know all of the resources and opportunities available to you. Check out some of the top ways to earn your degree without breaking the bank.

1. Apply to scholarships, grants, and fellowships created for education master’s students

You can find plenty of educational funding in the form of scholarships, grants, and fellowships if you plan to study education. For instance, the Leon Bradley Scholarship Program offered by the American Association of School Personnel Administrators provides $3,500 to qualified students. Start your search for scholarships, grants, and fellowships early with our STEPS financial aid guide and our Resources, Scholarships and Support Services for Education & Teaching Majors guide.

2. Look into Student Loan Forgiveness for teachers

Qualified teachers can receive up to $17,500 of loan forgiveness for their unsubsidized loans. Applicants must work full-time for at least five academic years at a school that serves low-income students. Requirements vary based on whether you teach elementary, middle, or high school, so be sure to review the eligibility information carefully before applying.

3. Ask about a tuition reimbursement program from your employer

If you’re employed by a private school, you may be eligible for a tuition reimbursement program that can help cover educational expenses. Employers can provide up to $5,250 annually tax-free (amounts exceeding this are not tax-free) to cover expenses such as tuition, textbooks and supplies, and required fees. Even if your employer does not advertise this benefit, it’s worth asking them if it’s an option.

4. Take advantage of work-study

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) indicates if you qualify for work-study funds. If you do, apply to in-person or virtual part-time jobs at your university and receive at least the federal minimum wage. In some cases, you can request work-study positions that directly relate to your master’s degree, thereby gaining valuable experience before graduating. Indiana University Southeast provides a solid example of what to look for in work-study opportunities.

5. Take on a research or teaching assistantship

You may qualify for a research or teaching assistantship within your school of education. Compensation for these positions varies across universities. Some provide stipends to help cover costs, while others provide tuition remission or specific scholarships. These positions tend to be highly competitive, so begin researching them early. The Graduate School at the University of Kentucky provides an example of a school offering these positions.

Factors Impacting the Affordability of Your Online Master’s in Education

If you’re seeking ways to keep your expenses low before pursuing additional funding sources, it’s essential to understand that several factors can influence the actual cost of your degree. In this section, we examine a few common factors that students should take into account.

Public vs. Private

Whether you attend a public or private university can have a huge impact on how much you pay for your online Master in Education. In general, students (especially those in-state) can expect public colleges to offer lower tuition rates thanks to government funding, whereas private colleges cost more due to their being funded by student tuition and donations.

Resident vs. Non-Resident Status

Because public schools receive state funding for resident learners, attending one of these institutions in your home state can save serious dollars. As mentioned earlier, in-state students can reap the benefit of lower tuition rates, so consider staying local as you earn your degree.

Online Student Tuition Rate

Some schools have lower online tuition rates than those charged for on-campus students. In the case of private schools, the institution may reduce the advertised price for online students. Finally, public schools sometimes let online learners pay the resident tuition rate regardless of where they live.

School-Based Funding

Many schools provide department-specific scholarships and other types of funding to students enrolled in education master’s programs. Some of these are awarded based on merit while others focus on supporting students with financial needs. Review the Laverne I. & Marvin L. Colness “Pay it Forward” Scholarship offered at the University of Minnesota Duluth as an example.

Fees

Students don’t always consider fees outside of tuition when creating a budget. While online learners avoid many campus-based costs such as parking passes, facilities usage, gym memberships, and campus-based housing, they still incur some added feels. Technology and student service fees are common for online students.

Ranking the Most Affordable Online Master’s in Education Degree Programs

Students like you don’t need to look far for the best schools for your education degree. When it comes to affordable programs, our data scientists have compiled this ranked list of the top choices after factoring in considerations such as online formats, proper institutional accreditation, and the availability of student support resources. Discover the schools that made their way onto our list here.

1

University of the Cumberlands

Williamsburg, Kentucky

Why We Selected University of the Cumberlands:
The University of the Cumberlands offers multiple education programs, including the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) and the Master of Arts in Education (MAEd). The MAT program is designed for those seeking initial teaching certification, with seven concentrations available, requiring 24 core credit hours and additional hours depending on the emphasis. Admission requires a graduate application and official transcripts with a GPA of 2.75 or higher. The program prepares students for K-12 teaching roles. The MAEd program is for licensed educators, focusing on literacy, counseling, and leadership, enhancing teaching skills for specialized roles or leadership positions. Both programs offer pathways to advanced careers, with available financial assistance through scholarships and employer partnerships.
Program Highlights
  • Cumberlands offers free textbooks through its One Price Promise, enhancing affordability and convenience for students.
  • The program provides flexibility with online learning, allowing students to complete their degree in just over a year.
  • Specialized career tracks include Literacy Specialist, School Counseling, and Teacher Leader certifications, enhancing professional growth.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$4,282
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course96%
2

Cabrini University

Radnor, Pennsylvania

Why We Selected Cabrini University:
Cabrini University’s education programs offer specialized pathways like Teacher Education Subject Specific, focusing on pedagogy, curriculum development, and educational leadership. Master’s programs typically take 1–2 years, with part-time graduate tuition around $705 per credit hour. Graduates pursue careers as classroom teachers, educational administrators, and curriculum specialists. While not all programs specify online options, Cabrini is expanding online education through partnerships like edX for some master’s and doctoral degrees.
Program Highlights
  • Cabrini University offers a 4+1 program that allows students to complete a graduate degree in just one additional year, enabling accelerated career advancement.
  • The university provides numerous scholarships and financial aid opportunities through its Cavalier Express Center, ensuring affordability for all students.
  • Cabrini emphasizes strong employer partnerships, resulting in high job placement rates for graduates across various fields.
School Details
  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average Tuition$2,183
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course75%
3

Salem State University

Salem, Massachusetts

Why We Selected Salem State University:
Salem State University offers a combined bachelor’s and master’s 4+1 program in Elementary Education. This social justice-oriented program equips students to teach 1st through 6th grades. The program length is five years, including a graduate year of full-time student teaching. Admissions require a cumulative GPA of 3.0, a faculty reference, a writing sample, and an interview, typically completed by the end of the second year. Students gain extensive field experience, starting with part-time placements in local schools and culminating in a full-year teaching internship. The program can also lead to dual licensure in elementary and special education. Upon completion, students are awarded both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree and are endorsed for their initial teaching license. The internship year is fully funded by partner districts, reducing student debt. Graduates emerge with significant teaching experience and a strong professional portfolio.
Program Highlights
  • Salem State offers waived GRE/GMAT testing through spring 2026, reducing application barriers.
  • Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, allowing flexibility in start dates.
  • The program offers a direct pathway to both initial and professional licensure without additional coursework.
School Details
  • AccreditationNECHE (formerly NEASC)
  • Average Tuition$2,520
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course74%
4

CUNY Hunter College

New York, New York

Why We Selected CUNY Hunter College:
CUNY Hunter College offers the Undergraduate Teacher Education Pathway (UTEP) to prepare students for teaching careers across various age groups and subjects. Programs include Early Childhood, Childhood, Adolescent Education, and specialized areas like Dance. Students must complete 15 to 45 credits before declaring their Education major, depending on the program. The program requires around 42 to 45 education credits plus liberal arts and sciences requirements. A minimum GPA of 3.0 and strong writing skills are required. Career outcomes include New York State certification to teach in public schools, with financial assistance available for eligible students.
Program Highlights
  • The Bilingual Childhood Education program at Hunter College offers several attractive features for prospective students:
  • CUNY waives the application fee for applicants who apply by June 30, 2025, providing a cost-saving opportunity for students.
  • Students benefit from extensive fieldwork and supervised teaching experiences in New York City public schools, enhancing practical skills and employability.
School Details
  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average Tuition$11,090
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course73%
5

Youngstown State University

Youngstown, Ohio

Why We Selected Youngstown State University:
The Bachelor of Science in Teacher Education and Leadership Studies at Youngstown State University equips students with essential knowledge and skills for effective teaching. The 123-credit program includes over 300 hours of field experiences and student teaching, offering scholarships through the Beeghly College of Education. Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Graduates are prepared for licensure and careers in public and private education, emphasizing contemporary teaching practices, leadership, and inclusive learning environments. The curriculum ensures readiness for modern educational challenges.
Program Highlights
  • The online M.S.Ed. in Digital Teaching and Learning at Youngstown State University offers a unique opportunity for educators to develop vital skills in integrating artificial intelligence into curriculum design.
  • YSU provides affordable pay-as-you-go tuition, making higher education financially accessible for working professionals.
  • Active military members benefit from waived application fees, enhancing the program's appeal to veterans seeking advanced education.
School Details
  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average Tuition$6,453
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course56%
6

Fitchburg State University

Fitchburg, Massachusetts

Why We Selected Fitchburg State University:
Fitchburg State University’s Education Teaching program offers specialized initial licensure tracks, including Elementary Education (1-6) requiring 39 credits and 5-12 education requiring 36 credits. Designed for baccalaureate degree-holders, programs can be completed in 2.5–6 years, meeting Massachusetts Department of Education standards and AAQEP accreditation. Students benefit from NEASC-approved programs, competitive pricing, and career pathways in teaching. Graduates pursue additional licenses via MTEL exams, supported by financial aid and enrollment counselors.
Program Highlights
  • Fitchburg State University's online M.Ed. in Curriculum and Teaching can be completed in as little as 12 months, offering accelerated paths for busy educators.
  • The program features a comprehensive curriculum that equips educators with social-emotional learning strategies, enhancing classroom engagement and effectiveness.
  • Fitchburg State offers affordable tuition at $385 per credit hour, making it a financially attractive option for aspiring teachers.
School Details
  • AccreditationNECHE
  • Average Tuition$3,420
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course63%
7

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, Utah

Why We Selected Western Governors University:
The M.A. in Teaching, Elementary Education at Western Governors University prepares individuals for teacher licensure through 28 courses covering lesson planning, classroom management, and differentiated instruction. The 23-month program (36 credits total) costs $4,125 per six-month term, with financial aid available. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree (minimum 2.5 GPA). Graduates gain in-demand skills, a professional portfolio, and expertise in cutting-edge educational research for modern classrooms.
Program Highlights
  • WGU offers a flexible, self-paced learning model that enables students to accelerate their studies and complete programs faster, thereby reducing overall tuition costs.
  • The university provides extensive support for financial aid, including grants and scholarships specifically for education students, making higher education more accessible.
  • WGU’s strong partnerships with various employers enhance job placement opportunities, ensuring graduates are well-positioned for immediate employment in the education field.
School Details
  • AccreditationNWCCU
  • Average Tuition$7,500
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course100%
8

East Carolina University

Greenville, North Carolina

Why We Selected East Carolina University:
East Carolina University’s Master of Arts in Education in Elementary Education offers a comprehensive program focusing on advanced pedagogy, assessment, and leadership. The degree typically requires earning 36 semester hours, with optional concentrations like content expertise or teaching gifted learners. Career outcomes include roles such as instructional coaches, school leaders, or college faculty. Financial aid opportunities are available through scholarships, with ECU annually awarding up to $700,000. Faculty members are recognized experts, contributing to a high-quality learning environment emphasizing research and leadership development. The program does not require GRE or GMAT scores for admission.
Program Highlights
  • ECU waives GMAT/GRE requirements, enhancing accessibility for diverse candidates.
  • The program features celebrated faculty and acclaimed Study Abroad opportunities.
  • ECU graduates enjoy robust support through financial aids and assistantships.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$4,749
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course74%
9

University of North Carolina at Pembroke

Pembroke, North Carolina

Why We Selected University of North Carolina at Pembroke:
The university of North Carolina at Pembroke offers a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education for current teacher assistants, requiring 120 credits and building on an Associate of Arts or Science degree. The curriculum focuses on K-6 education with field experiences and clinical practice. Students start in fall cohorts with mixed online and weekend classes. Financial aid is available, and graduates receive an Initial Professional License in North Carolina, enabling them to teach in public schools.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers competitive tuition rates, with in-state students paying just $9,227 for the entire degree.
  • Expert faculty guidance supports students in achieving high retention rates in their original schools.
  • Multiple start dates throughout the year allow for flexible and accelerated completion options.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$4,280
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course76%
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Kathleen Curtis AUTHOR

Kathleen Curtis is an American writer currently living in Louisville, Kentucky. She has developed content around education for more than a decade for both domestic and international clients.

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