Compare online master’s in teaching (MAT) programs

MAT vs. M.Ed.

A master's in teaching online (specifically, a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)) and a master’s degree in education online (or a Master of Science in Education (M.Ed.)) prepare students for different career paths within the education space. A MAT focuses on preparing professionals for a career in the classroom, while an M.Ed. focuses on preparing professionals for careers in leadership and administration roles. There are various other online graduate degrees in education and teaching, such as online master's in educational leadership or online Ed.D. programs, for those looking for an advanced degree.

Master’s in teaching requirements

Admissions requirements for MAT programs vary by school. Many accredited master’s programs request the following:

•  A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university to apply

• A minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is typically preferred, but may not be required

• A statement of purpose that demonstrates how your personal values and career goals align with the university and program

The best way to learn about the specific requirements for any given master’s program is to request information from the universities in which you are interested, or visit their admissions pages to learn more.

How to apply

Application requirements vary by program, but you can generally apply for a MAT program 100% online. The first step is to find your program. 

Curriculum

The curriculum in the field of education is largely dependent upon the requirements of each state in conjunction with the certification area or field of teaching an individual is pursuing. Online MAT learners in accredited programs can expect to experience a curriculum and educational experience that reflects the same rigor as on-campus programs. The typical MAT curriculum will provide learners with: 

• Foundational knowledge in education principles and theory. 

• Hands-on experience in the field to translate theory into practice.

• Specialized courses to customize learning based on individual interests.

The curriculum may also prepare you to pursue teaching certification in your own state. The best way to learn more about a specific program’s curriculum is to browse different master’s programs to see what courses they offer. If you’re unsure if a MAT online is right for you, there’s a breadth of learning education options in the field. 

Jobs with a teaching degree

A MAT degree prepares students with the tools and training they need to enter the field of education and teach with care and confidence. It may also allow graduates who hold this degree to sit for the state licensure exams they need to pass to be allowed to teach in the state of their choice.

While most states do not require educational professionals to hold an advanced degree, there are several benefits to earning a master’s degree in teaching online — including the opportunity to set yourself apart in the field and specialize your career. 

Common job titles for master’s degree graduates include:

• K-12 teachers

• Special education teachers

• Career and technical education teachers

Teaching job outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, about 67,100 openings for high school teachers are projected each year, on average, over the decade from 2022 to 2032^{Footnote 1} and 109,000 openings for kindergarten and elementary school teachers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.^{Footnote 2}

Master's degree in teaching salary

In May 2022, the median annual wage for high school teachers was $62,360, and the highest 10% earned more than $101,710.^{Footnote 3} The median annual wage for elementary school teachers was $61,690, with the highest 10% earning more than $101,310.^{Footnote 4}