Technology has become a strong resource to help schools to improve teaching methods in the classroom. Graduates with a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology might work as pedagogy specialists or school consultants who collaborate with teachers, administrators, and education advocates to combine research-based teaching and training practices.
All students interested in this rapidly expanding field, from recent college graduates to seasoned K-12 teachers, can benefit from educational technology master’s degree programs. This article describes the top Master’s Degrees in Educational Technology that can help you prepare for a high-level career in this sector as well as the best educational technology master’s degree jobs.
What Is Educational Technology?
Educational technology refers to a broad range of software and hardware utilized for teaching and learning in classrooms. This field focuses on the effective integration of technology in educational settings, which is becoming more common in K-12 settings. Educational technology is designed to assist students’ collaboration in a hands-on learning setting.
Where Can I Get a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology?
The best colleges where you can get a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology are Harvard University, Michigan State University, Purdue University, and the University of Georgia.
What Schools Offer the Best Educational Technology Master’s Degrees?
- Harvard University
- Michigan State University
- Purdue University
- University of Georgia
- University of Southern California
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology?
The admission requirements for a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology are a bachelor’s degree in a related field from a regionally accredited institution. Students are often required to submit their GRE or GMAT scores.
Further Master’s Degree in Educational Technology requirements may also include letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and a professional resume. While admission requirements vary, most master’s candidates in educational technology have prior teaching experience. These educational technology master’s degree requirements will vary from program to program.
Educational Technology Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in related field
- Academic transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Professional resume
- GRE or GMAT scores
- Teaching work experience
How to Get a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology
You can get a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology by completing the graduation requirements and fulfilling the minimum credit requirement. Students may additionally complete a capstone project or an internship program, depending on the curriculum.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology?
You need between 30 and 64 credits for a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology. Students will typically complete their educational technology master’s degree within two years. Credit requirements may include a capstone project, internship program, or an exit examination. Typically, these degrees do not require a thesis.
Educational Technology Degree Requirements
- Minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0
- Completion of core courses and electives
- Minimum of 30 total credits
- Capstone project
- Internship program
- Final exam
Best Educational Technology Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| California State University-Fullerton | Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology | Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission |
| Harvard University | Master of Education | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Michigan State University | Master of Arts in Educational Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Purdue University | Master of Science in Learning Design and Technology |
Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools |
| State University of New York (SUNY) | Master of Science in Curriculum Development & Instructional Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Texas A&M University-College Station | Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| University of Florida | Master of Arts in Education | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| University of Georgia | Master of Education in Learning, Design, and Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| University of Pennsylvania | Master of Education in Learning Sciences and Technologies | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Southern California | Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology | Western Association of Schools and Colleges |
Best Schools for Educational Technology: Top Educational Technology Master’s Degree Programs
The best schools for educational technology master’s degrees are accredited universities with curricula that teach advanced and expert-level educational technology skills. The top educational technology master’s degree programs offer students career services and soft skills training to ensure they are ready for upper-level jobs. Continue reading for details on the best educational technology master’s degree programs.
Best Online Educational Technology Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Appalachian State University | Master of Arts in Educational Media | Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools |
| Fort Hays State University | Online Master of Science in Instructional Technology | Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools |
| George Washington University | Master of Arts in Education and Human Development in Educational Technology Leadership | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| North Carolina State University at Raleigh | Online Master of Science in Learning Design and Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Ohio State University | Master of Learning Technologies | Higher Learning Commission |
| Oklahoma State University | Online Master of Science in Educational Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Penn State World Campus | Online Master of Education in Learning, Design, and Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Central Missouri | Online Master of Science in Educational Technology | Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools |
| University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Online Master of Education in Learning Design and Leadership (LDL) with a Technology Specialist Option | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of San Diego | Master of Science in Learning Design and Technology (Online) | Western Association of Schools and Colleges |
Best Colleges for Educational Technology: Top Online Educational Technology Master’s Degree Programs
Read below for more insight into the top online programs and institutions offering graduate degrees in educational technology. We’ve compiled all the relevant information for each university so that online students can make an informed decision.
What Is an Educational Technology Master’s Degree?
A Master’s Degree in Educational Technology is a graduate degree with core courses designed to train teachers to use technology effectively in the classroom. Curriculum supervisors and instructional coaches can use this degree to help instructors learn how to use new technologies effectively. Educational technology’s primary goal is to raise academic standards and facilitate the learning process.
An educational technology master’s degree allows students to enhance the teaching and learning process and enable better performance of educational institutions in the modern age. A master’s in educational technology instills students with the digital tools necessary to pursue various career options and achieve their professional goals.
How Important Is a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology?
It is very important to have a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology if you want to get upper-level educational technology jobs and gain specialized knowledge in this field. Some of the main reasons why an educational technology master’s degree is important include:
- Higher salary
- Access to career opportunities
- Alternative to professional certification
- Pathway to a doctoral degree
- Access to professional networks
- Internship opportunities for upper-level jobs
What Types of Master’s Degree Can You Get in Educational Technology?
You can get the following types of master’s degrees in educational technology:
- Master of Arts in Educational Technology
- Master of Science in Educational Technology
- Master of Education in Educational Technology
A Master of Education or a Master of Science are the most popular types of educational technology master’s degrees. A Master of Education is the best path for people looking to get a job in the education industry. This type of degree typically allows students to specialize in a variety of areas, including technology.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Education or a Master of Arts in Educational Technology?
It is better to get a Master of Education because it focuses more on the education industry and the practices of teaching. A Master of Arts is focused on hands-on teaching practices and is less specialized, especially when it comes to technology. Furthermore, earning a Master of Education will give you access to higher-salary jobs.
What Is the Difference Between an Educational Technology Master’s Degree and an Educational Technology Certificate?
The main difference between an educational technology master’s degree and a certificate in educational technology is the length of study. A Master’s Degree in Educational Technology can take about two years to complete whereas a certificate is usually a one-year program. Generally, a master’s degree is a better qualification, as the admission requirements are stricter and it is a higher degree type.
A certificate in educational technology is something a master’s degree graduate may enroll it to further their career and salary opportunities. Certificates can boost specific skills for students and train them in up-to-date practices. If you already have a career in the education industry, a certificate in educational technology might be enough for a career switch.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology?
The average Master’s Degree in Educational Technology costs students $25,281, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). However, pricing can vary significantly depending on the school or program. For example, distance learners who enroll in an online educational technology master’s degree might pay less than in-person learners.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Educational Technology Master’s Degree?
It takes an average of two years to get an educational technology master’s degree. This is typically made up of a minimum of 30 credits. A master’s degree in educational technology length will be determined by the program’s format. For example, if you study part-time online, it may take up to four years to complete your degree.
How Hard Is It to Get a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology?
It is hard to get a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology because students are required to complete upper-level classes. Furthermore, students may be required to write a thesis, pass a final exam, or complete an advanced capstone project. Educational technology experts require advanced knowledge of tech tools and software.
Why Should You Get an Educational Technology Master’s Degree?
You should get a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology because you can get a high-paying career across a wide variety of industries. For example, you can work for educational institutions, NGOs, government agencies, and other corporate settings because of the extensive project planning, evaluation abilities, and ability to incorporate technology into various environments master’s in educational technology provide.
Obtaining a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology is worthwhile if you want to increase your earning potential as an educational professional. Overall, those who desire to advance their careers in the education industry should consider pursuing an educational technology master’s degree.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Master’s Degree Program in Educational Technology?
You need to take upper-level, hands-on, and specialization courses in a master’s degree program in educational technology. Bachelor’s Degree in Educational Technology course will also include a variety of electives, which give students a route to additional learning outside of their specialization.
Design of Learning Environments
This course teaches students the best practices for designing environments that improve and foster learning. Students will learn modern trends in technology and learning. The class will cover theoretical learning as well as methods, design, and application to improve the learning environment.
Foundations of Teaching and Learning
This course examines the core factors of what learning and teaching is. This is done through theoretical and empirical practice. Students will use this knowledge to develop their own framework around teaching methods, including the use of modern technology in the classroom.
Foundations of Education Technology
Students will learn the vital fundamentals of education technology in this class. Students will learn about the history of technology in education and how it can be applied to improve an educational environment. Students will learn what the foundational principles are and how to best apply them.
Designing Integrated Media Environments
Students will learn about various tools, programming, and scripting languages concerning educational technology. These technologies are applied to problem-solving and development in regard to real-world educational issues. Tools and methods for elearning such as online quizzes, screencasts, and eportfolios will be covered.
Managing Educational Projects
Students will learn how to design and implement project plans. With an educational technology program, this class will focus on elearning project design. Students will examine and study the principal elements of planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk assessment, and management for instructional projects.
Continuing Education Paths for Educational Technology Master’s Degree Graduates
The best path to take with an educational technology master’s degree is to pursue a PhD in Educational Technology. Students who earn this level of degree will be able to access the highest-paying jobs and top managerial positions. Graduates who earn a PhD degree are considered experts in their field.
Related Educational Technology Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Educational Technology Master’s Degree Programs
The best educational technology master’s degree programs have recognized accreditation, flexible payment options, excellent career services, and strong reviews, to name a few. Continue reading for some of the key factors to consider when deciding on the best master’s degree in educational technology program.
Accreditation
You must earn your degree from a school with recognized accreditation. This ensures that the program you enroll in has been properly vetted and assessed by a third party to attest to the educational quality of the program and curriculum. Having recognized accreditation will help you stand out to future employers.
Cost
Earning a master’s degree comes with a high cost. Some schools will offer flexible payment options such as financial aid and scholarships. Students should consider enrolling in public schools within their state to cut down on costs. You must weigh up the cost and program outcomes. For example, a school with higher tuition rates may offer students paid internships or work placement opportunities.
Career Services
If you plan on breaking into the educational technology industry after graduation, you should consider a school with strong career services. Top schools will offer services such as resume help, portfolio building, mock interviews, employer partnerships, and networking to students both during their studies and ongoing help after graduation.
Curricular Content
Educational technology master’s degrees have various specializations and concentration paths, depending on your career goals. You can use the school’s website and catalog to research what electives and concentration paths are offered.
Flexibility/Format
You can earn your Master’s Degree in Educational Technology in an online, in-person, or hybrid program. Online learning allows students more flexibility. Furthermore, some educational technology master’s degrees are offered part-time. This is ideal if you want to work full-time while you earn your degree.
What Is the Most Affordable Educational Technology Master’s Degree?
The most affordable educational technology master’s degree is the Master in Science in Learning Design and Technology offered by Purdue University. Residents of Indiana only pay $347.88 per credit. The Master of Arts in Educational Technology offered by Michigan State University offers the best value for out-of-state students, at $906 per credit.
Salary and Job Outlook for Educational Technology Master’s Degree Graduates
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Educational Technology Master’s Degree?
It is not very hard to get a job with an educational technology master’s degree because the role of technology within education is more important than ever. Online learning is more popular than ever and students with this degree will be able to apply their education to elearning.
Furthermore, technology is constantly growing and evolving to help us find new and better ways to learn. Graduates who are trained with advanced knowledge of these technologies and tools are in high demand and if you earn this degree you will have no problem finding employment.
What’s the Average Educational Technology Master’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology is $70,000, according to PayScale. This number will vary depending on your educational background, location, and years of experience.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With an Educational Technology Master’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with an educational technology master’s degree are typically found within the education industry. The highest-paying jobs are upper-level senior and management roles, such as senior software product manager and director of teaching and learning. Other jobs include curriculum director, course designer, and computer instructor.
Educational Technology Degree Jobs
- Senior software product manager
- Director of teaching
- Training director
- Curriculum director
- Foundation program officer
Potential Careers With an Educational Technology Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology?
You can make between $31,000 and $216,000 per year with a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology. Senior roles such as upper management, director, and vice president pay the most. Students who have supplementary degrees in a related field and take additional training courses will earn the most money.
Highest-Paying Educational Technology Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Educational Technology Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Vice President of Information Technology | $159,010 |
| Senior Software Product Manager | $128,050 |
| Learning and Development Specialist | $120,130 |
| Director of Teaching and Learning | $92,378 |
| Director of Customer Service | $88,029 |
| Instructional Design Manager | $81,841 |
| Training Director | $74,142 |
| Curriculum Director | $66,908 |
| Senior Instructional Designer | $63,740 |
| Foundation Program Officer | $59,428 |
Best Jobs for Educational Technology Master’s Degree Grads
Students who graduate with an educational technology master’s degree have access to a plethora of attractive jobs. Below, we take a closer look at some of the highest-paying jobs that you can access with a Master’s in Educational Technology.
*Job classified under training and development managers by US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
**Job classified under instructional coordinators by BLS.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Educational Technology Bootcamp vs Educational Technology Master’s Degree: Which Is Better?
A Master’s Degree in Educational Technology is better compared to an educational technology bootcamp because it offers guaranteed career growth. Furthermore, a bootcamp helps students gain a specific skill set, while an educational technology degree offers advanced instruction regarding all aspects of the field.
Benefits of an Educational Technology Master’s Degree
- Increased Salary. Educational technology master’s degree holders can earn a higher salary than undergraduate degree holders. As your experience grows, so does your compensation.
- Career Opportunities. Once you land a job, your advanced degree will help you advance to higher opportunities in your chosen field.
- High-Demand. A degree makes your resume more attractive to talent hunters. This will increase your chances of being hired for your dream job and earning a higher salary.
- Personal Development. A degree teaches you the required skills and personal traits one needs to succeed in educational technology.
- Networking. Most prestigious universities provide small-scale networking events and large-scale conferences, allowing students to meet and interact with industry professionals.
Benefits of an Educational Technology Bootcamp
- In-Demand Skills. Bootcamps specialize in providing the job-ready tech skills that prospective employers are seeking in prospective candidates.
- Career Services. Students often have access to a wide array of career services when they attend a bootcamp. These might include mock interviews, resume-building assistance, and career counseling.
- Flexible Scheduling. Bootcamp programs are often designed to fit around a busy schedule. You can attend classes online or in person, and many offer classes in the evenings or on weekends.
- Affordable. Compared to traditional universities and colleges, a bootcamp is much more affordable.
- Self-Paced. Many bootcamps offer self-paced tuition, which means you can enroll and learn at your own pace rather than being bound to structured classes.
Is a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology Worth It?
Yes, a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology is worth it if you want to land senior and director-level positions. Graduates with a master’s degree will have greater job opportunities and higher salaries than those with an undergraduate degree.
A master’s degree provides students with specialized and advanced skills to help them become experts in their field. They are also a more well-rounded alternative to earning a professional certification. Finally, master’s degrees are a pathway to doctoral degrees.
Additional Reading About Educational Technology
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Educational Technology Master’s Degree FAQ
Yes, educational technology is one of the highest-paying specialist career paths for educators. Instructional technology jobs can be quite fulfilling for anyone who enjoys teaching or training as well as working with computers.
Educational technology encompasses all aspects of technology used in education. The theory and practice of learning design and evaluation procedures are referred to as instructional technology. The primary purpose of instructional technology is to improve the teaching and learning process.
To acquire a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology, students typically need two to three years, or as long as it takes them to acquire about 36-semester credits. Some programs offer a more flexible learning schedule than others.
There are numerous benefits to earning a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology for teachers. The skills they gain from this degree can help them improve their teaching methods by using technology more advantageously. A master’s degree can also be worthwhile if you are hoping to earn a higher salary.
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