Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
Updated October 19, 2023
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Educational technology professionals study how students use technology for education, developing new technologies to improve learning outcomes.
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A master's degree in educational technology can lead to a rewarding management-level career, incorporating technologies into teaching techniques and curriculums. Education technology professionals work for schools, government agencies, and private companies, where they explore how to best use technology and tools to support learning and teaching.
As schools and other organizations increasingly incorporate new technologies, they need knowledgeable and experienced education technology professionals to help effectively use them. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that instructional coordinators make a median annual salary of $66,290 -- nearly twice as much as the median yearly wage for all workers.
Keep reading to learn about the best online educational technology master's programs. Our guide includes a ranking of the top programs, explains what to expect from an educational technology master's program, and outlines potential educational technology careers.
The Best Online Master's in Educational Technology
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
The University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Gainesville, the University of Florida enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online educational technology program. The master of education in curriculum and instruction program with a concentration in educational technology builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the field and related industries. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in educational technology. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with a background in educational technology typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
The University of Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 37%
Total Online Master's Programs: 42
Program Name: Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction: Educational Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,770
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,335
#2 Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
The University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Orlando the University of Central Florida offers an online master's in educational technology. The master of arts in instructional design and technology program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the education field and related industries. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in educational technology. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants who majored in education or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
The University of Central Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 44%
Total Online Master's Programs: 26
Program Name: Master of Arts in Instructional Design and Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,916
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,759
#3 Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
The University of Georgia
Athens, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in educational technology program, offered by the University of Georgia from its Athens campus, ranks as a top program. The master of education in learning, design, and technology with an emphasis in instructional design and development strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or move into new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in educational technology. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants who majored in education or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
The University of Georgia at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 45%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of Education in Learning, Design, and Technology: Instructional Design and Development
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,878
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,186
#4 Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
The University of Virginia-Main Campus
Charlottesville, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master's in educational technology can earn their degree from the University of Virginia, located in Charlottesville. The master of education in instructional technology program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of educational technology. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants with prior experience in educational technology or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
The University of Virginia at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 24%
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Program Name: Master of Education in Instructional Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $16,578
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,770
#5 Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master's in educational technology can earn their degree from Florida State University, located in Tallahassee. The master of science in instructional systems and learning technologies program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in educational technology or a related field.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Florida State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 36%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: Master of Science in Instructional Systems and Learning Technologies
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,684
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,116
#6 Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's in educational technology program at Johns Hopkins University, located in Baltimore, Maryland, offers a flexible online format. The master of science in education in digital age learning and educational technology builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the education field and related industries. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on educational technology. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The admission requirements include a background in education or a related field.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Johns Hopkins University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 11%
Total Online Master's Programs: 30
Program Name: Master of Science in Education in Digital Age Learning and Educational Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $55,350
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $55,350
#7 Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
Texas A&M University
College Station, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in College Station, Texas A&M University enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online educational technology program. The master of education in learning design and technology emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on educational technology. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants with prior experience in education or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Texas A&M University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 38
Program Name: Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,677
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,700
#8 Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
The University of South Florida-Main Campus
Tampa, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's degree in educational technology at the University of South Florida, located in Tampa, offers high academic quality. The master of science in learning design and technology uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on educational technology. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in education or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
The University of South Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 48%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of Science in Learning Design and Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,350
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,048
#9 Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
Pennsylvania State University World Campus
University Park, PA - 4 years
- Online
From its campus in University Park, Pennsylvania State University World Campus offers an online master's in educational technology. The master of education in learning, design, and technology program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in education or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Pennsylvania State University World Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 76%
Total Online Master's Programs: 52
Program Name: Master of Education in Learning, Design, and Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $21,682
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,682
#10 Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers an online master's in educational technology. The master of education in curriculum and instruction with a concentration in digital learning strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to educational technology. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in education or a related field.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 59%
Total Online Master's Programs: 30
Program Name: Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction: Digital Learning
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,997
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,404
#11 Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
The University of Houston
Houston, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Houston offers a flexible online master's in educational technology program. The master of education in curriculum and instruction with a concentration in learning, design, and technology builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the field and related industries. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on educational technology. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The master's program recommends a background in education before applying to the program.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
The University of Houston at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 65%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction: Learning, Design, and Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,370
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,746
#12 Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
The University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's in educational technology degree at the University of West Florida, located in Pensacola, uses a flexible distance learning format. The master of education in instructional design and performance technology program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in educational technology. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The admission requirements include a background in education or a related field.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
The University of West Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 31%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of Education in Instructional Design and Performance Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,088
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,166
#13 Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus
Stillwater, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Oklahoma State University, located in Stillwater, offers a flexible online master's in educational technology. The master of science in educational technology program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. Applicants with prior experience in education or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Oklahoma State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 70%
Total Online Master's Programs: 25
Program Name: Master of Science in Educational Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,531
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,034
#14 Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's degree in educational technology at Texas Tech University, located in Lubbock, offers high academic quality. The master of education in instructional technology program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum explores educational technology research and methodologies. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program builds on prior educational technology experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Texas Tech University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 69%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master of Education in Instructional Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,958
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,428
#15 Best Online Master’s in Educational Technology
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master's in educational technology can earn their degree from Georgia Southern University, located in Statesboro. The master of education in instructional technology program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in educational technology or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Georgia Southern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 54%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master of Education in Instructional Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,977
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,890
Online Master's in Educational Technology Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
What Is an Online Master's in Educational Technology Degree?
An online educational technology master's degree prepares students to use new technologies in the classroom, lead workshops, develop and analyze curricula, and act as project managers and consultants. Typical online master's in educational technology applicants include school administrators and teachers seeking new challenges, students coming straight from undergrad, and professionals from other fields seeking a career change.
Educational technology degrees cover topics like instructional design, educational research, and project management. Many programs offer electives or specializations that allow learners to focus more closely on an area of interest, like online teaching or assessment.
Master's in instructional technology programs help students develop leadership, interpersonal, communication, and analytical skills. Graduates know how to use and incorporate a variety of technologies into curricula to improve learning and teaching.
Choosing an Online Program
Prospective online educational technology master's students must consider a variety of factors when choosing the program that best suits their individual career goals and circumstances. Issues to consider include program cost, delivery format, program length, and available courses. Learn more about how to choose the best online program at the link below.
What Else Can I Expect From a Master's in Educational Technology Program?
Online educational technology courses develop the skills necessary for careers in education and consultation. While each educational technology online master's program features a unique curriculum, students are exposed to similar topics. Below is a snippet of an online educational technology degree curriculum.
Master's in Educational Technology Curriculum
Theories of Educational Technology
This course explores learning and instructional theories, helping students adapt their instructional styles to meet the needs of various learners. Many educational technology online master's programs use the TPACK framework to conceptualize technology's role in education, which prepares students for employment in learning environments.
Instructional Design
Students in this class explore technology's impact on learning and provides an overview of strategies used to incorporate technology into curricula. This course exposes students to a variety of technological applications used in teaching and prepares them for careers as instructional coordinators. Students consider topics of human/computer interfacing, digital pedagogical adaptations, and design processes.
Assessment and Evaluation
This course not only familiarizes students with basic assessment topics like tests and measures, but also examines ways educators can use computer-based tools to collect and interpret data and make decisions based on those results. Knowledge of assessment and evaluation is critical for instructional coordinators and managers of training programs.
Educational Technology Certifications and Licenses
Teacher Certification: Professional teachers with state certification can expand their teaching credentials by earning an online master's degree in instructional design. Teacher certification requirements vary from state to state, but commonalities include the completion of an undergraduate degree in education or a teacher preparation program and passing scores on state teaching exams.
Educational Technology Professional Organizations
Students pursuing an online master's in instructional technology may wonder how to make the leap from academia to employment. One way to do this is by joining a professional organization. Professional organizations provide job search databases and offer networking opportunities that foster mentoring relationships, peer engagement, and scholarly inquiry.
The professional organizations highlighted below are launching points for aspiring professionals in the field of educational technology.
Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development
Composed of members from nearly 130 countries, ASCD promotes improved instruction by providing educators with resources. Student members can access exclusive webinars that explore topics like digital leadership and student creativity.
International Society for Technology in Education
Dedicated to the enrichment of learning environments through technology, ISTE offers virtual coaching opportunities, an annual conference, and two academic journals. Individual professionals and groups may join, allowing both teachers and their schools to take advantage of ISTE's resources.
National Education Association
With three million members, NEA is the largest professional organization for employees in the U.S. It supports public schools and educators of all grade levels through its action-focused advocacy, grants, and teaching tools.
Educational Technology Careers
Instructional technology professionals work in schools, public administration offices, and private organizations. The following careers illustrate the varied paths available to students in the field of educational technology. Although these occupations differ in their responsibilities, individuals employed in the following careers demonstrate similar traits, including communication and interpersonal skills, creativity, and patience.
Instructional Coordinators
Nearly half of all instructional coordinators in the U.S. work in an elementary or secondary school setting. These professionals determine the effectiveness of school programs and create curricula that incorporate new technologies and updated standards. Instructional coordinators also select textbooks and classroom materials to enhance instruction and assist teachers in learning new instructional programs.
High School Teachers
With an online master's in instructional technology, high school teachers equip themselves with the expertise needed to effectively integrate technology into their class curricula. In addition to developing lesson plans and assessing student comprehension, high school teachers communicate with parents, assist in school functions outside of the classroom, and lead extracurricular activities.
Training and Development Managers
An educational technology online master's degree qualifies professionals to pursue careers implementing staff training programs. Training and development managers create training programs, coach instructors, and evaluate instructional programs. Most training and development managers work in an office environment at least 40 hours per week.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Educational Technology Leadership?
Educational technology leadership refers to professionals who oversee the incorporation of technology into schools and other educational settings, with the goal of improving teaching and learning.
What Can I Do With a Master's in Educational Technology?
Earning a master's in educational technology degree prepares students for jobs like instructional coordinator, high school teacher, training and development manager, or project consultant.
What Is the Importance of Educational Technology?
Schools and other organizations can use educational technology to improve learning outcomes and prepare students for a world increasingly dependent on technological literacy.
How Long Does It Take to Complete a Master's in Educational Technology Program?
A master's in educational technology degree typically takes two years to complete. Some online master's programs may offer accelerated options.
What's the Difference Between a Master's in Education and a Master's in Educational Technology?
A master's in education typically includes a broad study of education and prepares students for K-12 teaching and administration. A master's in educational technology prepares learners for careers both inside and outside of schools and focuses specifically on using technology to improve learning.
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