With a master’s in educational technology, you will be a change agent in the world’s shift to the digital age.

Even before Covid-19, the use of technology was transforming education and corporate worlds in all avenues. However, now more than ever, the transition from face-to-face meetings to online meetings is prevalent, especially in education.
A master’s in educational technology prepares graduates for leadership as teachers, trainers, and administrators. However, most master’s in educational technology programs are not limited to education. This degree is also beneficial if you aim to work as a technology leader in businesses, non-profits, military settings, and more. The world needs professionals fluent in technology, which is why a master’s in educational technology degree is so crucial.
What Is a Master’s in Educational Technology?
Featured Programs
Harvard University, one of our rankings on this list, sums up a master’s in educational technology well. In order to understand this degree, you ask: “Who are the users, and what educational challenges are they grappling with?”— choosing the medium or technology that delivers the most effective learning experience for your specific goal. Technology is the means, not the mission, for harnessing innovation and creativity to improve educational outcomes for all learners.”
Universities will vary in requirements, but most master’s in educational technology require at least 30 credit hours with a combination of core classes, concentration classes, electives, and a final capstone project or thesis. Some are offered completely online; others are offered in traditional classroom format, and some are a hybrid of both.
Most schools require a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA, and some require GRE scores while others don’t. Pretty much all require the basics: a statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and a current resume or curriculum vitae.
Careers for Master’s in Educational Technology Majors
A master’s in educational technology opens the doors to a myriad of careers, especially because many of these programs feature concentrations to further tailor your career goals.
You may assume that a master’s in educational technology would be perfect for teachers who want to effectively integrate cutting-edge technology into their classrooms, and you would be correct. However, those who want to pursue non-teaching careers can also benefit from this degree.
With a master’s in educational technology, you could become any of the following:
- K-12 teacher
- College instructor/professor
- Curriculum developer/designer
- Instructional coordinator
- Education administrator
- Educational technology director
- Corporate trainer/developer
- Educational technology consultant
- Educational technology director
- Educational technology researcher
- Software/web developer
In addition, if your goal is to pursue a doctorate in educational technology or a related field, a master’s will serve as your gateway. As you can see, a master’s in educational technology is a broad field that can lead you into a diverse range of careers.
Master’s in Educational Technology Salary Potential
No matter what career you choose in the educational technology field, you will make a decent salary. PayScale cites those with a master of educational technology earning an annual salary of $67,981.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also provides some insight on potential salaries in the educational technology field.
High school teachers can expect to make $61,660 per year, while postsecondary teachers in educational technology make around $79,540 per year. Similarly, instructional coordinators earn $66,290 annually. Training and development managers average $61,210 per year, while training and development managers can bring in $113,350 per year.
Your salary will depend on your job title, your experience, and—of course—your education. While a master’s degree is necessary for most of these careers to enhance your income, you could earn related professional certificates. Some of the programs in our rating include add-on certificates for those who want to increase their marketability and salary.
What Are the Best Master’s in Educational Technology Degrees?
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University of Florida

Recognized by U.S. News and World Report, Forbes, and Kiplinger for quality and value, the University of Florida, measures “success not in awards won, but in lives changed” (UF website). UF Gators see things differently, and they do so through dynamic programs and extensive research such as the Master of Arts in education with a concentration on educational technology.
This 36-hour program includes 30 hours of courses and 6 hours of thesis work. Courses are offered both on-campus and online and include Designing Integrated Media Environments I and II and Human-Computer Interaction and the Learner. Research serves a big part of this program, particularly how technology can support online, multimedia, and game-based learning in various contexts.
Interested in becoming a UF gator? UF reviews applicants holistically, meaning each part of the application is just a piece, and they review the information as a whole. You need a minimum GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 credits of undergraduate work, letters of recommendation, a current resume, and a statement of purpose. As of fall 2020, the GRE is no longer required for admission.
Purdue University

U.S. News & Report rates Purdue University as the #6 most innovative school in the United States. Over 40,335 students across 13 schools call Purdue home. Purdue University’s College of Education offers a Master of Science in learning design and technology that equips graduate students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively teach and lead in a variety of settings.
The Master of Science in learning design and technology offers two tracks: business/industry and education. You will complete a minimum of 33 credits divided into core courses, electives, and a final portfolio project. Courses include Introduction to E-Learning, Strategic Assessment and Evaluation, and Educational Technology for Teaching and Learning.PU offers a “Serious Gaming Center” for implementing virtual learning games to support learning in the classroom. Graduates of PU’s MSed program will pursue careers in field design and instruction in educational, business/industrial, and even military settings. To apply, you need a minimum 3.0 GPA, recommendations, and a 500-word statement of purpose.
Florida State University

Founded in 1851, Florida State University evolved over the years to the first liberal arts college in the state. Among other national awards, for the past six years, FSU has been recognized by INSIGHT Into Diversity for its strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. At FSU, you will be among 41,000 other Seminoles, achieving your academic and career goals.
FSU’s Master of Science in instructional systems and learning technologies is highly ranked for Best Online Programs by U.S. News & World Report because the program produces top-notch professionals ready to enter the field (and with no problem finding jobs!). This program heavily emphasizes instructional design, emerging technologies, and performance improvement.
The MS in instructional systems and learning technologies, offered both online and on-campus, prepares students to become experts in the fields of instructional systems and learning technologies. This 36-credit hour program includes coursework, an internship, and a portfolio project. The career options are vast. Graduates can become trainers, consultants, K-12 teachers, community college instructors, instructional designers, human resource specialists, and more.
University of Georgia

Ikeson Choi, Ph.D., summed up the goal of UGA’s Master of Education in learning, design, and technology with a concentration on instructional technology in these words: “I don’t want my graduates to just be able to lecture about education. They should be able to go out in the world to create excellent instruction.” (UGA website).
In the University of Georgia’s 33-credit hour MEd program, your coursework includes learning theory and instructional models, classroom technology integration, research methods, and trends in the field of design and technology in the educational setting. You will submit a final professional portfolio that serves as the basis of a comprehensive examination during the last semester of the program.
You will also be able to attend the Annual Digital Learning Conference and network with professionals in the field. Graduates are employed in a variety of settings, and many of them have gained employment through contacts at the conference. Interested in UGA? You need an undergraduate degree with at least a 3.0 GPA, GRE scores, and letters of recommendation.
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Driven by the motto Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, is one of the nine colleges from Virginia Tech, a research university in Northern Virginia. VT is known for its prestigious academics, spanning across 110 undergraduate majors and 170 master’s and doctoral majors, and its more than 34,440 students both on and off campus.
The Master of Arts in education in instructional design and technology, offered on the Blacksburg, Virginia campus, is a 30 credit-hour program that is divided into foundation credits, research methods, and restricted credits. Sample courses include Digitally Mediated Learning, Principles of Learning Message Design, and Educational Applications of Microcomputers.
The IDT program is affiliated with the Center for Instructional Technology Solutions in Industry and Education, so graduate students can get involved in excellent research opportunities. The professional development portfolio will be completed at the end of the program and will showcase the knowledge and skills acquired. VT also offers another master’s degree and two doctoral programs in instructional design and technology.
Iowa State University

If you’re looking for a nationally ranked university with a prestigious educational technology program, check out Iowa State University. The campus itself spans 1,900 acres and is ranked among the nation’s most beautiful campuses. Many of the world’s inventions were discovered at ISU, including the world’s first electronic, digital computer, and the first moving tornado simulator.
Iowa State’s Master of Education with an emphasis on educational technology is a 30 credit-hour program, offered both on-campus and online, designed for in-service teachers who are interested in educational research. Research includes emerging technologies, social media, game-based learning, integration of technology in teaching, and more. All students are required to take Educational Psychology, Social Justice Education and Teaching, and Action Research.
ISU EdTech faculty often collaborate in grant-funded research both nationally and internationally. If you are interested in this program, you will need an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution and a minimum 3.0 GPA. You also need to submit a 500-word statement of intent, three references, and your current resume. GRE scores are not required.
Michigan State University

Michigan State University’s MA in Educational Technology is among programs ranked as fourth in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. This program’s mission is to “empower educators to develop a critical lens, promote equity, think in new ways, and become transformational leaders” (MSU’s website). This program is designed for teachers, administrators, and other educational professionals.
Students can complete this program fully online, in a hybrid format, or even overseas! Core courses include Psychology of Learning in School and Other Settings, Proseminar in Educational Technology, and Approaches to Educational Research. This 30 credit-hour degree is only available without a thesis, so the emphasis is on coursework.
With three additional courses, you can also add a graduate certificate in educational technology, K-12 computer science education, online teaching and learning, or educational psychology. Because of the flexibility, you can complete this program part-time in 2-3 years. Interested applicants need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited academic institution (minimum 3.0 GPA) and a desire to learn!
Indiana University-Bloomington

Indiana University – Bloomington holds some impressive awards, specifically its School of Education. US News & World Report has ranked the school #26 in the 2020 Best Online Master’s in Education and #28 in the 2020 Best Graduate Education Schools. What makes IU Bloomington so great? The well-known, dedicated scholars and experts are comprised of faculty and students alike.
Earn a Master of Education in instructional systems technology from Indiana University – Bloomington, and you will have the skills to solve instructional problems and issues in a variety of job settings. You can either complete the residential or online program. Both are 36 credit hours of major requirements, specialization electives, and outside electives, but the residential track includes studio and capstone requirements.
A variety of fellowships and assistantships are available to fund this program. In addition, active duty military and veterans receive financial assistance and other benefits. Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 2.75 GPA. GRE scores, two recommendation letters, and a personal statement are also needed to apply.
University of Texas at Austin

Known as the live music capital of the world, Austin, Texas is the fastest-growing city in the country, and for good reasons. The University of Texas at Austin believes “it’s because what starts here changes the world,” and with rigorous academics, extensive research that promotes change, and a plethora of career options upon graduation, we agree that UT Austin is a solid choice in pursuing advanced education.
UT Austin features both a Master of Arts or Master of Education in learning technologies that arms students with the skills to “utilize cutting-edge new media technologies, learning theories, instructional systems design, human-computer interaction, and evaluation,” (UT website).
Both programs include research, learning technology, elective courses, and an internship, totaling 36-39 credit hours. The Master of Education is for students who have one or more years of teaching, training, or project management experience. Courses include Interactive Multimedia Design and Production, Teaching and Learning with the Internet, and Designs and Strategies for New Media.
Graduates of this program serve as university faculty, instructional designers, trainers, and technology design managers in an array of educational, business, government, and military settings. Check out the current alumni and where they are today.
Auburn University

If the mention of Aubie brings to mind a playful and loveable tiger mascot, then you may be an Auburn fan. Founded in 1856, Auburn University is currently serving more than 30,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students spanning across 15 schools and 140 majors. Auburn’s College of Education features an excellent MEd in library, media, and technology.
In the past, the library was all about the Dewey Decimal System and, well, printed books; today, with the advancement of technology, earning a MEd in library, media, and technology means preparing K-12 students to become lifelong researchers. With Auburn University’s library, media, and technology program, you could become a school librarian or technology specialist, or both!
This graduate program is offered both on campus and online and requires at least 30 credit hours of courses such as Selection and Use of Media for Youth, Informational Sources, Services and Instruction, and Educational Leadership. In addition, you will also complete a 300 hour clinical residency in an educational setting. Admission requirements include two years of full-time teaching experience, and at least a bachelor’s degree (minimum 2.75 GPA).
SUNY Albany

Straight from New York’s capital, the State University of New York at Albany is named one of “America’s Top Colleges” by Forbes magazine, and you will soon see why. SUNY Albany serves more than 17,000 students across nine schools, over 50 undergraduate degrees and 150 graduate degrees.
SUNY Albany’s MS in curriculum development and instructional technology is versatile in not only the online or on-campus options, but because it opens the doors to a variety of careers. You will be trained in curriculum development and instructional design and technology and be eligible to work in education, business, or training work settings. In addition, you can obtain a teaching certificate with this degree.
You will complete 30 credits, including courses like Media in Teaching and Learning, Educational Computing, and Systematic Design of Instruction. Because of the online, on-campus, and hybrid courses, many students complete this program while working full-time. Applicants need a 3.0 GPA, recommendation letters, and a statement of goals.
Ball State University

Known as one of the best universities in the Midwest from Princeton Review (for the past 15 years, we must add!), Ball State University not only boasts top-notch academic programs for students from all walks of life, but they offer low 16:1 student-faculty ratios and low tuition costs. Notable graduates include Eric Foss, president and CEO of Aramark and Ericka Flye, Emmy-award winning new anchor, along with many others who have made true differences in the world.
BSU’s Master of Arts in curriculum and educational technology is for current educators who want to integrate cutting-edge technology into their P-12 classrooms. Students can choose to focus on either curriculum or educational technology to better suit their interests and career goals. Graduates will hold expertise in how to best embed technology into the teaching and learning process while meeting students’ unique needs.
This 30 credit-hour program can be completed both on campus and online. Courses include Research on Impacting Student Learning, School Information Infrastructures, and Curricular Integration of Learning Technology. To apply, you need a bachelor’s degree from an institution that is accredited by a regional association and a cumulative 2.75 GPA.
Kansas State University

Ask a Kansas State University student, alumni, or faculty member what it means to be a wildcat, and they will all reply with this word: family. A tight-knit yet inclusive university, KSU stretches across four campuses, including their global one where students can earn an online Master of Science in curriculum and instruction with a specialization in educational technology.
This program is perfect for current educators who want to improve student performance through technological resources. While the majority of students in this program are educators, those in other non-teaching education roles also benefit from the knowledge and skills learned from this degree. In addition, this program provides a foundation for those wishing to pursue doctoral studies in educational technology.
This program includes courses in curriculum development, teaching and learning, diversity, research, and educational technology, equaling a minimum of 31 credits. To apply, you need a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA in the final two years/last 60 credits. Applications are accepted throughout the year, so plan to apply around 2-3 months before the semester you wish to begin.
California State University

A nationally ranked academic institution from U.S. News & World Report, Forbes, and Washington Monthly, Cal State Fullerton is the leading campus in the CSU system, providing students with top-notch academic programs at affordable costs. CSU’s Master of Science in instructional design and technology is online and provides the flexibility to accommodate working students.
This part-time program integrates a cohort model where students take ten courses over five semesters. Courses include Research Practices in Instructional Design and Technology and Systematic Approaches to Digital Design and Development. Students will also participate in two required on-campus/video Saturday meetings throughout this degree. If you are wanting a flexible program that you can complete while working full-time, this one is a good choice.
In addition to earning a master’s degree, graduates will also earn two certificates in instructional design levels I and II. To apply, you need a bachelor’s degree with a cumulative 3.0 GPA, although those with a GPA between 2.50 and 3.0 could still be accepted on a conditional basis. GRE scores and references are not a requirement.
Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University was built on a “student-first foundation,” 120 years ago, and their original mission remains unchanged today. Expert faculty target student talents, which results in growth and success. Through the department of educational specialties in the College of Education, you can earn a Master of Education in educational technology and choose between three concentrations: adult learning and training, assistive technology, or K-12 teacher.
Nationally recognized by the International Society for Technology in Education, this program will give you the skills and knowledge to design both online and in-person technology-based instruction. NAU states that the aim of their degree is to lead students “from educational technology facilitators to educational technology leaders.”
In this online graduate program, you will complete core classes, concentration classes, and electives, totaling 30 credit hours. You will complete a final capstone project that showcases your professional knowledge of pedagogy and content learned in the program. Admission is competitive, and you’ll need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA as well as a current resume or curriculum vitae.
University of Minnesota

Forbes ranks the University of Minnesota as one of the ten best educational employers in the nation, which is no surprise when you see all this school has to offer. In particular, the programs offered in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, like the Master of Education in professional studies in learning technologies, are flexible, innovative, and sure to help land you in the career of your dreams.
This learning technologies degree is fully online but super interactive. It is the program for those who want to create customized digital apps, games, interfaces, and multimedia projects. You will complete core courses in multimedia design and development, K-12 technology integration, and online distance learning. While completing courses, you will be polishing away on your portfolio project that will be complete and ready to present to future employers when you graduate.
Interested in this high-tech (pun intended!) program? You need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.8 GPA, a resume that reflects relevant academic and work history, and a one-page personal statement detailing your career goals. You can apply for three different start dates in the spring, summer, or fall.
University of Oklahoma

Looking for an educational technology degree that encompasses the broad field of psychology? The University of Oklahoma’s Master of Education in instructional psychology and technology is a multifaceted program that includes research, theory, and practice to solve instruction and learning problems in both educational and business settings.
You can specialize in either educational psychology or instructional design and technology. If you are a current educator wanting to work toward leadership in your field, the educational psychology concentration is your best bet. If your interests lie in designing effective instruction in a wide range of settings, then you should check out the instructional design and technology track.
Both concentrations emphasize the following areas of knowledge and competence: the psychology of learning, the technology of instruction, and tools for inquiry and implementation. Within both concentrations, you can choose a thesis or non-thesis option. In addition, you can complete a graduate certificate in Applications of Educational Research and Evaluation either by itself or along with the master’s degree.
Appalachian State University

Are the mountains calling your name? If so, Appalachian State University, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, is your school. With top-notch faculty and a low student-to-faculty ratio, it’s no surprise that over 19,000 students identify as “ASU mountaineers!” The MA in educational media and instructional technology provides a solid background in media and technology design and production for leadership in a wide range of fields.
Enhancing versatility, this program includes four concentration choices: K-12, online learning and professional development, new media literacies and global perspectives, and computer/information systems and/or computer science in educational fields. The range of concentrations is a perk at ASU because you can tailor this degree to match your career goals.
Regardless of what emphasis you choose in this program, you will take a combination of required courses, concentration courses, and electives, totaling 36 credit hours. Interested? You need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA, GRE or MAT scores, three references, and your resume.
Towson University

Founded in 1866 as a teacher’s college, Towson University has evolved over the years into what it is today: the 12th largest university system in the nation. TU features 46 master’s programs, including the Master of Science in instructional technology. In this program, you can choose one of three concentrations: instructional design and development, educational technology, or school library media.
You can complete the MS in instructional technology, either online or in-person. Core courses include Integrating Instructional Technology, Foundations of Distance Education, and Instructional Design and Development. Each concentration includes a thesis and non-thesis option, and both tracks are 36 hours.
Graduates from TU’s programs possess the knowledge and expertise to best apply cutting edge technology to a variety of educational fields. To apply, you need a minimum 3.0 GPA on the last 60 units of undergraduate work. You can apply for conditional admission with a 2.75 GPA. Technology literacy is also a requirement.
Western Illinois University

Flexible and affordable are two words to describe Western Illinois University, a nationally ranked academic institution in Macomb and Moline, IL. WIU’s MS in instructional design and technology is a flexible program that is offered completely online or in an online/weekend format. Students can choose between two tracks: general instructional design and technology or technology specialist.
WIU is known for providing students with flexibility and options to tailor to their specific schedules and career goals. While this program consists of basic core classes and directed electives such as Principles of Instructional Design and Foundations of Instructional Technology, students can choose from three “exit options”: a portfolio plan, an applied project plan, or a thesis plan.
You can either enroll in a full-time or part-time basis. Full-time students can complete the program within two years, and part-time students generally take three years. WIU features rolling admission, so you can start in the fall, spring, or summer semester. In addition, WIU offers affordable tuition rates as well as financial aid opportunities for graduate students.
St. Cloud State University

The beautiful campus of St. Cloud State University runs 100 acres along the scenic Mississippi River. Rated as a top college by Forbes, STC offers 200 undergraduate and 60 graduate programs, with hundreds of online courses available. From the Department of Teacher Development, the Master of Science in information media – technology integration is a 39-42 credit program with three plans.
Depending on your academic and career focuses, you can choose the thesis plan, the starred paper(s) plan, or the portfolio/project plan. This program is flexible, designed to accommodate both full and part-time students in various formats: on-campus, online, or evenings and weekends. Most courses are offered during the summer sessions. In addition to a master’s degree, you can earn one of five graduate certificates to further enhance your career options.
The rolling application deadline makes it easy to apply for this program throughout the year for fall, spring, and summer start dates. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university, a minimum 2.75 GPA, GRE scores (with a 3.0 or higher on the analytical portion), and a written and oral exam from the department.
Harvard University

Established in 1636, Harvard University is set apart as the oldest academic institution in the United States! With over 360,000 alumni around the globe, Harvard includes 12 schools, including the Graduate School of Education, which offers the Master of Science in technology, innovation, and education. This prestigious program includes several points of distinction, including tight-knit cohorts with other graduate students, internships and field work, and top-notch, devoted faculty.
Joe Blatt, a faculty director, sums it up this way:
“Whether it’s a course on designing cutting-edge technologies, a practicum on large-scale distance learning, or a course on evaluating the impact of educational apps, we concentrate on the cognitive, affective, and social dimensions of learning, not on the bit rate.” (HU website).
The coursework focuses on three critical areas: design, implementation, and research. Courses are offered in a variety of formats to accommodate students. The goal is to prepare graduates for leadership careers in technology development, entrepreneurship, research, teaching and administration, and other facets in the technology education field.
Are you wondering about alumni? They are leaders in creative education and technology all over the world. Many are employed at school systems; however, some work for Google, others work for Microsoft. Some are even employed at Disney!
University of Houston

With over 46,000 students, 2,700 faculty, and 29 research centers, it’s no wonder the University of Houston is known as “The Powerhouse.” Among the 104 master’s degrees offered is one that is nationally ranked as a Best Online Program by U.S. News & World Report: the Master of Education in curriculum and instruction with an emphasis on learning, design, and technology.
Graduates of this degree become innovative leaders in instructional technology in educational, military, corporate, and community settings. Available both online and in a hybrid format, this program includes ten courses in both curriculum and instruction and design and technology, along with a final capstone project, which totals 30 credit hours.
Most students complete this degree in five semesters. In addition, students can earn one or more graduate certificates in this program to further enhance their academic and career goals. To apply, you need a bachelor’s degree (minimum 3.0 GPA), a statement of interest, a current resume, and recommendation letters. GRE scores are not required.
University of North Dakota

The state’s oldest and largest academic institution, the University of North Dakota offers more than 250 degrees both on-campus and online. Not only that, but UND continuously ranks as a best value college, offering quality education at an affordable cost. UND features both a Master of Education and Master of Science in instructional design and technology.
This graduate degree is full of opportunities. Both programs include 29-35 credit-hours of core courses, research and foundation components, and an area of emphasis. Emphasis areas include K-12, corporate, or computer and web-based instruction. In addition, you can choose between a thesis or non-thesis track, depending on your career goals.
You can take courses either on campus, online, or a combination of both. Core classes include Survey of Instructional Design; Instructional Systems Analysis and Design; and Development, Implementation, and Evaluation of Instructional Materials. Applicants need an overall undergraduate 2.75 GPA. Provisional admission may be granted to those who don’t meet this standard but provide other strengths to the program.
Kent State University

With more than 257,000 alumni worldwide, and 38,000+ current students representing 98 countries, Kent State University may be large, but they are a tight-knit community who keep their mission alive: “ to transform lives and communities through the power of discovery, learning, and creative expression in an inclusive environment,” (KSU website).
Kent State’s Master of Education in instructional technology is a versatile program—perfect for current teachers, those who want to pursue leadership positions in corporate training, multimedia and web development and production, and those who are interested in pursuing doctoral studies in the future. You can choose among four specializations, and add a computer/technology or computer science endorsement to your teaching license.
Some specialization courses include Simulations and Games in Education, Emerging Learning Technologies, and Virtual and Augmented Reality. Interested in Kent State? You need an undergraduate degree (minimum 3.0 GPA), a goal statement, and two letters of recommendation. GRE scores are not required.
University of Pennsylvania

Dr. Amy Gutmann, the president of the University of Pennsylvania, states founder Benjamin Franklin’s words, “well-done is better than well-said,” as one of the traditions of Penn’s history of academic rigor. A competitive academic institution, Penn is one of the best out there in preparing students for fulfilling careers. Penn boats the lowest student-faculty ratio at just 6:1!
The Master of Science in education with an emphasis on learning sciences and technologies is distinct for a number of reasons: the coursework is just one part of it. In this program, you will be taught by award-winning faculty, enjoy learning alongside peers in a tight-knit cohort, and complete a dynamic internship with an individualized program personalized to your schedule and interests.
The MSEd in learning sciences and technologies provides the background for graduates to pursue careers as educators, researchers, and instructional technology designers. You will take engaging courses like Learning Sciences: Past, Present, Future and Statistics for Educational Research.
Seven required courses and three electives make up the coursework, along with an internship experience, and a master’s capstone project. While applications are accepted on a rolling basis, the start date is in the fall term. To apply, you need to submit transcripts, GRE scores, a current resume, a 750-word statement of purpose, and recommendation letters.
University of Cincinnati

Gaming lovers, this program is for you! The University of Cincinnati’s Master of Education in instructional design and technology is an on-campus/blended program that includes a specialization in design and development. Students will learn how to design “cutting edge media and technologies such as mobile apps, gaming and simulations, interactive video, and other multimedia to optimize learning across a variety of contexts” (UC website).
In this on-campus program, you will take courses such as Educational Game Design, Mobile Learning, and Creating Digital Professional Portfolios. You will also gain experience working in the CECH School of Education’s cutting edge media and gaming laboratory, as well as through professional field experiences.
Graduates may work in professional or educational settings such as developing video games for online classrooms or designing interactive media for corporate environments. To apply, you have the option of submitting an informal video essay where you let the committee know who you are and why you want to pursue this graduate degree at UC. You also need to submit unofficial transcripts, a resume, and one letter of reference.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Do you know the very first public university in the nation? None other than the University of Chapel Hill, born in 1789. Join the UNC family of Tarheels, and you will become one of the 30,000+ learners represented from all 50 states and 161 countries. Check out UNC Chapel Hill’s Master of Arts in educational innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, designed for students who want to pursue careers in the education technology field.
This program is set apart in that you don’t need to have an education degree or computer programing skills to apply or succeed in this program. You will choose one of the specialized tracks to design your individual course of study:
- The edupreneur
- The innovative specialist
- The learning engineer
- The human-machine interactionist
Each track includes 36 credit hours of core classes, track-specific courses, a final project, and an internship. Core classes include Educational Innovation and Technology Integrative Seminars and learning science courses. You can choose to complete this program either full-time or part-time (full-time students complete it in just one year!).
Alumni enjoy fulfilling careers in a variety of settings. Some are CEOs of their own startups, while others are product developers, teachers, education directors and program managers, and more. Check out what some past alumni said about the MEITE program here.
Emporia State University

A nationally ranked academic institution whose motto is “humanity first,” Emporia State University is a college of distinction and boasts the lowest student debt of all universities in Kansas. The Master of Science in instructional design and technology for those who want to become instructional designers and trainers in pretty much every industry: business, health, military, and education.
You can complete this program completely online, face-to-face, or a blend of the two to accommodate your schedule needs. You can also choose between a thesis or non-thesis option dependent on your academic and career goals. Both tracks will take courses such as Web Design, Contemporary Issues in Distance Education, and Research in Instructional Design and Technology.
Recent graduates of this program work as an operations managers for Amazon, instructional designers for the National Weather Service, content producers for Linkedin, and training coordinators and professors/instructors in colleges and universities all over the world. Admission requirements include a GPA of 2.75 in the last 60 hours of college coursework.
SUNY Buffalo State

With national rankings in social mobility, SUNY Buffalo State has a long history in its commitment to diversity and inclusion. SUNY Buffalo State’s Master of Education in technology education is for those who want to develop and enhance their professional technology skills in education or those who plan on pursuing doctoral studies in a related field.
In this program, you will take 15-18 credits of required courses, 12-15 elective courses, and 3-6 credits of a master’s project or thesis, totaling a minimum of 30 hours. Required courses include Administration of Vocational Education, Evaluation in Education, and Educational Research. In addition, for professional certification in New York, students must complete the required seminar in Harassment, Bullying, Cyberbullying, and Discrimination in Schools: Prevention and Intervention.
To apply, you need to first earn a certificate in technology education and hold a bachelor’s degree in industrial arts/technological education with a minimum 3.0 GPA. The technology education program is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).
If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, then you should check out the 20 Best Online Masters in Information Technology Programs and the 30 Best Online Master’s in Educational Psychology!
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