Online graduate degree programs are great for those wanting to further their studies but can’t attend campus classes. More and more national universities are offering online educational technology master’s degrees that provide the same education as their in-person counterparts. This article details the best online educational technology master’s degrees, jobs, and salaries.
There is an increasing number of options available to people who want to pursue their studies in education technology. Read this guide if you are looking for an online Master’s Degree in Educational Technology and you are curious about some of the best educational technology master’s degree jobs.
Where Can I Get an Educational Technology Master’s Degree Online?
Some of the best schools to get an educational technology master’s degree online include Arizona State University, Drexel University, James Madison University, Kent State University, and Oklahoma State University. The programs these public and private universities offer will provide you with the skills you need for your career.
What Schools Offer the Best Educational Technology Master’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Drexel University
- James Madison University
- Kent State University
- Oklahoma State University
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Educational Technology Master’s Degree?
The admission requirements for an online Master’s Degree in Educational Technology are different from school to school but typically include meeting a 3.0 grade point average (GPA) minimum in any bachelor’s degree program or equivalent. This degree needs to have been obtained from a regionally accredited institution.
If you have earned an undergraduate degree from an accredited university and have met the other basic requirements for entry into the postgraduate degree program, you can proceed to send in your application. The application needs to be accompanied by your official transcripts, a resume, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Online Educational Technology Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- A four-year bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
- An application form and application fee
- 3.0 GPA
- A letter of recommendation
- Prior transcripts
How to Get an Educational Technology Master’s Degree Online
The best way to get an educational technology master’s degree online is by fulfilling all of the graduation requirements. Some requirements include completing all the necessary credit hours, taking core courses and elective courses, completing a capstone project, and meeting a minimum GPA. The total number of required credits changes from program to program but is typically around 30.
Educational Technology Degree Requirements
- Complete core courses
- Complete elective courses
- Maintain the required minimum GPA
- Complete a capstone project
Best Online Educational Technology Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Master of Education in Learning Design and Technologies | Higher Learning Commission |
| Drexel University | Master’s Degree in Educational Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| James Madison University | Master of Education in Educational Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Kent State University | Master of Education in Educational Technology | Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association |
| Oklahoma State University | Master’s Degree in Educational Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Regent University | Master of Education in Instructional Design & Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Western Governors University | Master of Education in Learning and Technology | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | Master’s in Instructional Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Michigan-Dearborn | Master of Arts in Educational Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of San Diego | Master of Science in Learning Design and Technology | Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges |
Best Schools for Educational Technology: Top Online Educational Technology Master’s Degree Programs
The best online schools for a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology can be accessed from around the country. Some of the top online education technology programs are offered through universities like Arizona State University, Drexel University, James Madison University, Kent State University, and Oklahoma State University. Below we have compiled a list of some of the top universities for educational technology to help you with your school search.
What Is an Online Educational Technology Master’s Degree?
An online educational technology master’s degree is a higher education diploma, usually taking 1.5 to two years to complete, obtained online rather than on campus. An educational technology degree program is aimed at using new technologies to improve the learning experience of students at any level.
With the pandemic causing an increasing number of students to enroll in exclusively online education programs, the need for new technologies that can support them has come to the forefront of the field of education. This, in turn, has made education technology master’s degrees extremely relevant.
Online vs In-Person Educational Technology Degrees
The main difference between online and in-person educational technology master’s degrees is the format in which some common courses are taken, with each providing various benefits. Online classes provide more flexibility when it comes to where and when students can study, while on-campus programs provide easier access to campus resources and more structure.
Depending on your goals, needs, and preferences, the benefits of getting an educational technology degree program online can outweigh the benefits of a traditional program and vice versa. Generally speaking, educational technology online programs benefit people who have busy lives outside of school, who are easily self-motivated, and who prefer working independently.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Master’s Degree in Educational Technology
- Students can work while studying. Due to the nature of the scheduling of online classes, it is easier to keep a part-time or even full-time job while studying. Many online programs allow you to study part-time or even pick the time of day you take your classes through pre-recorded lessons.
- Flexible programs. Online degree programs offer flexibility that allows you to learn on your own time and at a pace that works for you. Some online programs allow you to take as many asynchronous classes in a semester as you can handle, meaning that you can speed up your learning process.
- Less formal learning environment. For those who prefer to learn in a less formal environment or on their own, an educational technology degree program is an ideal option. Online learning programs require students to have a certain amount of self-motivation to stay on top of their classes.
- Less costly. Typically, an online program will work out to be a less costly option than in-person educational technology programs. Distance learners get to skip out on costs related to student housing, travel, and physical copies of books.
- Comfortable learning settings. Because online programs allow students to learn from anywhere they have a stable Internet connection, graduate students can customize their learning environment to their heart’s content, whether at home in their office, or in a cafe.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Master’s Degree in Educational Technology
- Fewer distractions. On-campus learning programs typically offer a much more structured learning environment, allowing for fewer distractions during class times.
- Easier interactions. Being physically around peers and university professors makes it easier to have interactions with them. Hence, you can have your questions answered or solve any issues you may be struggling with.
- Networking opportunities. Academic factors are not the only benefit of campus classes. Being able to make friends is also an important aspect of college life and being able to interact in person with other students is a huge benefit of in-person programs. You can join clubs and student associations and participate in on-campus events.
- Access to student services. Most of the time, being able to speak with a student or financial support staff member in person when you need help with an issue is much better and faster than doing so through emails or over the phone.
- Enhancement of time management skills. For those who have not yet perfected their time management skills, having a more rigid class schedule can be helpful. The structured learning environment of in-person courses typically provides much more support and guidance than online courses.
What Types of Online Master’s Degrees Can You Get in Educational Technology?
You can get the following types of online Master’s Degrees in Educational Technology:
- Master of Science in Instructional Systems and Learning Technologies
- Master of Science in Learning Design and Technology
- Master of Education in Learning, Design, and Technology (Instructional Technology)
- Master of Education in Professional Studies Learning Technologies
- Master of Education in Educational Technology.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Science or a Master of Education in Educational Technology?
It’s better to get a Master of Science degree if you want to focus more on the more technical and practical aspects of a subject. If your goal of getting a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology is to develop and create new technologies for education or perform research on these technologies, then a Master of Science will be better.
On the other hand, a Master of Education degree is better for working or prospective school teachers and instructors who want to learn more about teaching theories and strategies related to education technologies. If your goal of getting a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology is to learn to implement new technologies into your teaching, then a Master of Education is better.
How Much Does an Educational Technology Master’s Degree Cost?
Online master’s degree programs in educational technology cost an average of $19,314 per year when attending a public institution, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. The average cost of attending a private institution is $25,929. This cost can be reduced by applying for financial aid and scholarships.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Educational Technology Master’s Degree Online?
It takes approximately one to two years to get an educational technology master’s degree online. Degree programs vary in length depending on which institute is providing them and the number of core credits they require. Some schools offer accelerated options, but most require you to complete your degree within five years.
Most master’s degrees require the completion of around 30 credits, on average. Depending on the size of the workload you can handle, it could take you between two and five semesters to earn the credits you need for graduation. Adding a specialization can sometimes increase the amount of time that is required to gather the essential credits.
Are Online Educational Technology Degrees Respected?
Yes, online educational technology degrees are respected. Attending an online school has become increasingly popular, and in turn, the validity of online degrees has become more widely recognized. These days, employers are more concerned with ensuring their prospective employees have earned degrees from accredited institutions.
Is Educational Technology Hard to Learn Online?
No, educational technology is not hard to learn online. This is primarily because educational technology degrees focus on teaching students how to use technology to teach, and learning education technology online requires students to use technology.
Why You Should Get an Educational Technology Master’s Degree Online
The benefits of getting a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology online include the ability to learn in a more flexible way and to pay less to acquire the tools needed to teach in online and traditional schools, as well as facilitate professional training programs for organizations. In a world that’s increasingly reliant on operating digitally, an educational technology degree will offer many job opportunities at edtech companies.
The demand for distance education will continue to grow as the world continues to adopt new learning approaches that make education more accessible to people from any location. This degree program will equip you with the skills you need to be able to take on roles that facilitate distance education.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Master’s Degree Program in Educational Technology?
You need to take several Master’s Degree in Educational Technology online courses. These required courses are all designed to help you develop a powerful and broad skillset with new and emerging technologies in education, preparing you for a long and healthy career. Below you will find some educational technology online degree courses for those studying this discipline.
Introduction to Research and Evaluation in Education
An Introduction to Research and Evaluation in Education course provides students with information about scientific research and assessment methods as it pertains to education and student learning. Students will learn how to navigate the various stages of conducting research, an important skill needed both as a master’s student and as a K-12 teacher.
Learning Theories and Instructional Strategies
This course is aimed at teaching students instructional strategies based on established educational and pedagogical theories of learning and teaching. The focus of the course is to examine the ways in which teaching and learning can be designed within different technological environments.
Modalities of Learning
A Modalities of Learning course will teach you about the creation and design process of different types of online instruction models as well as how they are used by current teachers and education professionals. These include online, hybrid, and blended learning as well as teaching methods and using interactive media and elearning software for online students.
Evaluation of Learning Systems
In this course, students learn the processes of assessing educational programs, training systems, and new technology applications. The course focuses on teaching students the basic concepts and steps that go into conducting a systematic evaluation project and compiling a report on the findings.
Emerging Technologies
Students taking this course will learn how to recognize current and future trends in the field of educational technology. The course is aimed at readying students to navigate the practical application of ever-changing technologies used in education and student learning.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Educational Technology Master’s Degree Graduates
The best path to take with an online educational technology master’s degree includes applying for doctoral programs or earning a teaching permit or teaching certification to help you land the job you want. You can also attend teaching conferences held across the country or online to learn more about what’s going on in classrooms on a daily basis.
Related Online Educational Technology Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Educational Technology Master’s Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best education technology master’s degree for prospective students include the retention rate, student-to-faculty ratio, career services, application fees, and flexibility. These factors can have an effect on your ability to either join or stay enrolled in an education technology program.
Retention Rate
A college’s retention rate refers to the percentage of its first-time, first-year undergraduate students who continue at that school the following year. A school’s retention rate can be a good indicator of student success, demonstrating how often students graduate from the college successfully and how likely they are to do the same as an online student.
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
The overall student-to-faculty ratio at an institution is important because you want to ensure that you are able to receive an adequate amount of attention from faculty members. A master’s is an advanced degree that often requires a certain amount of support. A disproportionate number of students than faculty members can make it challenging to get the assistance you need.
Career Services
Career services refer to the assistance available to students in different departments at a university. Career services are important because they serve the purpose of assisting students enrolled in in-person and online courses with any career-related aspects that they need help with, including choosing a career path after graduation.
Application Fees
Application fees are what prospective students pay to an institution in order to get their applications reviewed and processed. The costs of application fees vary across public and private universities, so it is important that you do your research and find out the various fees for each university you are interested in attending. When applying to multiple universities, these can add up quickly.
Flexibility
Flexibility is an especially important factor to those who are specifically seeking out online degrees, as they are often looking for a learning schedule that fits into their lifestyle. Before choosing a degree program, you should consider whether it is flexible enough for you or not. If it isn’t, you may not get the educational experience you’re hoping for from the program.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Educational Technology Master’s Degree?
The most affordable online educational technology master’s degree is offered at Western Governors University. The annual tuition for the Master of Education in Learning and Technology degree program is $13,340.00 for full-time students.
Can I Get an Educational Technology Master’s Degree Online for Free?
No, you cannot get a free online Master’s Degree in Educational Technology. Luckily, as educational technology online degree programs come from accredited institutions, part-time and full-time students can apply for federal loans. You can learn education technology online for free through workshops and seminars, but these programs will not offer you the in-depth knowledge or qualifications you need to pursue a successful career.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Educational Technology Master’s Degree Graduates
If your career goals are to work in educational technology, you are in luck because they will be easy to pursue. As previously mentioned, the world is increasing its reliance on digital technologies for educational purposes in schools and in corporate settings. This means that employment and career advancement opportunities will continue to rise over the next decade.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Educational Technology Master’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with an educational technology master’s degree because the world needs people who hold this degree now more than ever. Educational technology degree holders are currently in high demand and have many career options available. If you’re interested in working for an educational technology company or in K-12 settings, you’ll likely be successful.
What’s the Average Online Educational Technology Master’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with an online Master’s Degree in Educational Technology is $70,000 per year, according to PayScale. Like other fields, the average is determined by the lowest paying jobs and the highest-paying jobs, so your annual salary has the potential to be even higher than the average, depending on your career path, school district, and experience.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Educational Technology Master’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with an online educational technology master’s degree include working as a development and training specialist, computer and information systems manager, educational software developer, library media specialist, or instructional coordinator.
Educational Technology Degree Jobs
- Instructional Coordinator
- Training and Development Specialist
- Computer and Information Systems Manager
- Educational Software Developer
- Library Media Specialist
Potential Careers With an Online Educational Technology Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Educational Technology Master’s Degree?
You can make between $60,000 and $151,000 per year with an online educational technology master’s degree. Choosing a career path in educational technology can provide you with a lucrative career. Considering the opportunities for growth within the educational technology industry, you’ll likely have many employment options to choose from, as well as job security.
Highest-Paying Online Educational Technology Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Educational Technology Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | $159,010 |
| Educational Software Developer | $110,140 |
| Instructional Coordinator | $63,740 |
| Training and Development Specialist | $61,570 |
| Library Media Specialist | $61,190 |
Best Jobs for Online Educational Technology Master’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for online master’s degree holders in educational technology include well-paying roles with a positive outlook for the next ten years. Whether you get your degree from a public university or a private college of education, your professional electronic portfolio will allow you to apply for any of these jobs after graduating.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online Educational Technology Master’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online educational technology master’s degree is worth it because of the depth of training you’ll receive, even for online learners or those studying in a hybrid format. If you enjoy working with technology in either an educational or business setting to help improve student outcomes, then this is a career path worth considering.
The projected growth of jobs within this career field also indicates that this educational path is worthy of pursuing. If your professional goals line up with what the field has to offer and the employment outcomes appeal to you, then there is no reason not to get your online educational technology master’s degree in an asynchronous or synchronous format.
Additional Reading About Educational Technology
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Online Educational Technology Master’s Degree FAQ
No, classroom teachers are not required to have a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology, but it can be very useful for teachers who conduct lessons online or work with technology in their classrooms. Becoming an educational technology specialist on top of working as a teacher can increase your earning potential and help you achieve any professional goal you have in this field, in addition to enhancing your professional portfolio.
Educational technology is just as beneficial in both circumstances but for different reasons. The path you choose to follow should be based on the type of environment you enjoy working in. If you prefer a business setting, then corporate training may be more your speed. However, if you enjoy working with students, then you should consider working in K-12 classrooms.
Mobile learning is better than in-person learning for students who thrive in that kind of environment but isn’t universally better. Access to education through elearning methods is not always effective as all teaching techniques have their benefits and drawbacks. Newer techniques are being created because they are useful for the digital age we live in, but that doesn’t mean that traditional methods have no place in the school system.
Some examples of educational technologies include digital learning, online games, blogs and discussion boards, interactive learning tools, and learning apps. These are all methods of teaching and learning that are becoming more popular.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
