Why Get a Master's Degree in Educational Technology?
A master's degree in educational technology equips teachers and trainers with the skills to create student-centered, technology-rich learning environments. K-12 teachers, school administrators, higher education staff members, corporate trainers, and curriculum designers may benefit from this degree.
These programs are designed to teach enrollees to sharpen their critical thinking skills, evaluate curriculum plans, and incorporate technology into educational environments. Courses often cover the principles of instructional design, modern technology learning tools, and skills for teaching K-12 or adult learners. Graduates may work in formal education settings or as multimedia scriptwriters and educational consultants.
Most educational technology programs require 30-36 credits and take 18-24 months. Accelerated programs, which typically offer courses on rotating eight-week schedules, may take less time. Find out more about which educational technology master's degree may be right for you with the guide below.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Online Master's Programs in Educational Technology
Many schools offer online master's programs in educational technology. These degrees prepare educators and specialists to create and enhance tech-based learning experiences. Graduates with a master's in educational technology may work in academic or corporate settings. Online programs can help working professionals continue their careers while furthering their education.
Our guide lists the top online master's degrees in educational technology. Read on for information about costs, common classes, and how to become an educational technologist.
#1 Top Online Master’s Programs in Educational Technology
North Carolina State University
- Raleigh, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $525
Out-of-State | $1,635
Credits to Graduate: 30 credits (M.Ed.) or 36 credits (MS)
NC State offers two online master's degrees in learning technology: a 30-credit M.Ed. and a 36-credit MS. The M.Ed. focuses on classroom and school-based theories and learning models, while the MS includes a research component. Both programs can prepare future digital leaders and learning professionals.
Students can emphasize design, digital leadership, or inquiry in their curriculum. Teachers currently licensed in North Carolina to add the technology specialist endorsement to their licenses after completing either program. Each applicant needs a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Percent Online Enrollment
91%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Top Online Master’s Programs in Educational Technology
Ashland University
- Ashland, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $620
Out-of-State | $620
Credits to Graduate: 30
This private university in Ohio offers an online M.Ed. in curriculum and instruction: educational technology. Students take courses such as instructional design for technology integration; organization and transformational change through technology; and social, cultural, and political aspects of technology use in the education of all students.
The program concludes with a capstone project or a master's thesis. Current Ohio teachers who complete this degree can add the computer/technology endorsement to their state licenses. Ashland does not require GRE scores.
Percent Online Enrollment
72%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Top Online Master’s Programs in Educational Technology
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Edinburg, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $458
Out-of-State | $458
Credits to Graduate: 30 credits
Located in Brownsville, Texas, UTRGV provides an online M.Ed. in educational technology to equip K-12, corporate, military, and higher education leaders with the skills to apply modern technology to the classroom.
Each enrollee completes five core courses, five electives, and an internship. Options include the theory and practice of e-learning, along with technology leadership. In addition to the master's degree, UTRGV allows students to pursue one or more certificates in e-learning, technology leadership, or online instructional design. An applicant needs a minimum 3.0 GPA to qualify.
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Top Online Master’s Programs in Educational Technology
Georgia State University
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $398
Out-of-State | $1,259
Credits to Graduate: 36 credits
Georgia State's MS in instructional design and technology prepares graduates to lead dynamic learning experiences. Course topics include instructional systems theory, learning environments, and various types of media. Each student also completes a three-credit internship.
This four-semester program requires synchronous learning in web conferencing sessions that begin as early as 4:30 a.m. Eastern time. Applicants should submit official transcripts and letters of recommendation. The program does not lead to certification by the Georgia state teacher credentialing agency.
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Top Online Master’s Programs in Educational Technology
Framingham State University
- Framingham, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Course:
In-State | $1,260
Out-of-State | $1,260
Credits to Graduate: 30 credits
Students in FSU's M.Ed. concentration in educational technology can employ research-based principles to explore instructional design using technology. The curriculum includes three core courses, two required concentration classes, and several electives. Options include introduction to assistive technology, mathematics instruction with technology, and technology in the second language classroom.
The program does not lead to Massachusetts state educator licensure or endorsement. Graduates may, however, work in K-12, higher education, or corporate training environments. Each candidate must hold a 2.8 or higher GPA and have access to a formal learning environment.
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#6 Top Online Master’s Programs in Educational Technology
Indiana University of Pennsylvania-Main Campus
- Indiana, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Avg. Cost per Semester:
In-State | $5,645
Out-of-State | $8,100
Credits to Graduate: 30 credits
This Indiana, Pennsylvania-based university offers an online MA in education, training, and instructional technology. Students can complete the degree through part-time or full-time enrollment and may study independently online or through synchronous video conferencing. The curriculum covers seven core courses, a research course, and either a thesis or an internship.
Courses include designing accessible and inclusive instruction, digital pedagogy, and advanced instructional design. Certified Pennsylvania teachers can add an instructional technology specialist endorsement after completing this program. Each applicant must submit official transcripts.
Percent Online Enrollment
54%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#7 Top Online Master’s Programs in Educational Technology
Ottawa University-Online
- Ottawa, KS
- 4 years
- Online
Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $499
Out-of-State | $499
Credits to Graduate: 30 credits
Kansas-based OU features an online master's in learning technologies. This degree supports educators who aspire to use high-level teaching methods to make instruction effective and efficient. The curriculum covers 12 credits of core courses and 18 credits of concentration courses, including a practicum.
Students can enroll in games and simulations in education, emerging trends in learning technologies, and teaching and learning at a distance. Applicants need GPAs of 3.0 or higher, and new courses begin every eight weeks.
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Top Online Master’s Programs in Educational Technology
Florida Atlantic University
- Boca Raton, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $372
Out-of-State | $1,030
Credits to Graduate: 36 credits
FAU's master's degree in instructional technology prepares graduates to implement modern technology in learning-positive environments. Each enrollee completes 15 credits of core courses, six credits in research and statistics, and a nine-credit concentration track in instructional design or educational technology leadership. The program concludes with a field experience in educational technology.
Graduates may work in higher education, K-12 settings, or corporate training environments. An applicant needs either a GPA of 3.0 or better in all upper-level courses or minimum GRE scores of 154 (verbal) and 144 (quantitative).
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Top Online Master’s Programs in Educational Technology
SUNY at Albany
- Albany, NY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $533
Out-of-State | $627
Credits to Graduate: 30 credits
As a part of New York's statewide university system, UAlbany offers an online master of science in curriculum development and instructional technology. The program includes courses in educational and social thought, along with human development and learning.
Each applicant needs a minimum 3.0 GPA. Candidates who hold initial New York state teaching certification should inquire with the state office about how this program may help them obtain state professional teacher certification.
Percent Online Enrollment
94%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#10 Top Online Master’s Programs in Educational Technology
University of North Dakota
- Grand Forks, ND
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $499
Out-of-State | $798
Credits to Graduate: 34-36 credits
Students in UND's master of science in instructional design and technology can prepare for careers as training designers and developers. Courses include human performance design, instructional design consulting, and an internship.
The program offers two options for the concluding project: a master's thesis for prospective Ph.D. students or a scholarly project for future practitioners. Classes meet synchronously in the evenings. Each applicant needs either a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or a minimum GPA of 3.0 in all junior/senior-level courses.
Percent Online Enrollment
83%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
How Much Does a Master's in Educational Technology Degree Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average annual cost of graduate tuition was $19,749 in the 2020-21 school year.
Many variables impact the actual price you pay as a student: For instance, public institutions typically cost less than private ones, and in-state schools often charge residents less than out-of-state schools. Online programs may offer lower tuition than in-person degrees, and asynchronous classes enable learners to continue working as they complete coursework.
A master's in educational technology typically takes 18-24 months to complete. In addition to tuition, some courses may require you to purchase textbooks, hardware, or software.
Courses in Educational Technology
Most educational technology degrees require 30-36 credits. Courses cover topics such as educational theory, learning technology, and instructional design. Students sharpen their skills in design thinking, learning analytics, accessibility, and technology ethics.
Some programs offer specialization tracks like K-12 learning design, adult learning design, technology leadership, and online instructional design. These tracks include concentration courses like designing e-learning experiences for adults or K-12 e-learning solutions. In some programs, students pursue a general master's in education with a specialization in educational technology.
While each school offers their own curriculum, the courses listed below are a representative sample of typical educational technology classes.
Technology Leadership
Technology leadership equips teachers and trainers with the tools they need to design, implement, and assess technology-based learning experiences. The course explores creating technology-integrated curriculum, developing technology-enriched instruction, and mentoring others in the use of educational technology. Enrollees also explore the theoretical and practical applications of technology-infused learning.
Designing Learner-Centered Environments
Effective learner-centered environments can integrate an array of technology teaching tools. This course focuses on the roles of the teacher and the student in a learner-centered setting. Topics may include a discussion of available technologies, how to incorporate those technologies into the curriculum, and methods of evaluating their effectiveness.
Educational Games and Simulations
Both 2D and 3D educational games and simulations play a critical role in effective teaching and learning. In this course, learners explore how to design, deliver, and evaluate instructional activities in virtual worlds. Topics include perspectives on play, theories of gaming and learning, and the mechanics of gaming.
Career and Salary Outlook for Educational Technology
Educational technology is a versatile degree that can help you qualify for a variety of careers in education, corporate, and tech settings. The list below provides a brief overview of job options available to professionals with a master's degree in educational technology. Some roles may require additional credentials like a doctorate, state licensure, or professional certifications.
Educational Technology Careers and Wages
| Educational Technology Career |
Median Annual Wage (2021) |
| Instructional Coordinators |
$63,740 |
| Training and Development Managers |
$120,130 |
| Web Developers and Digital Designers |
$78,300 |
| Middle School Teachers |
$61,320 |
| High School Teachers |
$61,820 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
How to Become an Educational Technologist
Most educational technologists need at least a bachelor's degree, though some employers may prefer master's degrees, especially for advanced roles.
Note that many master's programs in this field do not prepare graduates for state teaching certification. To work in classrooms, educational technologists usually need to fulfill state board of education requirements like student teaching and licensure exams.
Educational technology professionals who seek jobs in the business field do not need teaching certification. These workers can gain hands-on experience through internships.
Frequently Asked Questions About Educational Technology
What can you do with an educational technology degree?
With an educational technology degree, you can work in K-12 or higher education, human resources, or curriculum development. Careers in these fields include teacher, director of corporate training, multimedia scriptwriter, instructional technology specialist, or manager of organizational development.
What are the benefits of getting a master's in educational technology?
A master's in educational technology can sharpen your leadership, technology, and critical thinking skills. This degree can help you qualify for educational technologist roles at educational institutions. Graduates can also pursue jobs as trainers or educational technologists in corporate and government settings.
Do I need a license for educational technology?
To serve as an educational technologist in a public K-12 classroom, you may need a teaching license or technology endorsement. Check your state laws to determine requirements for your jurisdiction. If you plan to work as a trainer in government, business, nonprofit, or healthcare, you do not need a license to practice educational technology.
What is the difference between educational technology and instructional technology?
For some experts in the field, "educational technology" and "instructional technology" are synonymous terms. Others, however, believe educational technology encompasses theories of learning, while instructional technology focuses on educational processes.
Schools may use the phrases interchangeably, or they may use "educational technology" when talking to K-12 teachers and "instructional technology" when talking to trainers in other fields.
Page last reviewed June 27, 2023. All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the BCR Rankings Team.
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