The time it takes to finish a Master’s in Education Online depends on a variety of factors. Below explains how long it takes to get an online master’s degree in education.
Online Master’s Programs
Almost all on-campus and online master’s programs take approximately two years to complete. However, this is only if the student attends the program full-time without any interruptions. The advantage of online degree programs is that they offer flexibility, so students with excellent time management skills will be able to adjust their schedules to fit their schoolwork. Part-time online students may take two to five years to complete their degree because they may only take a few courses per semester. The flexibility of online programs can actually result in a relaxed attitude towards classwork. Some students may take advantage of this and choose to take off evenings or weekends.
The school’s program requirements may result in certain delays. Certain online schools offer blended programs that require students to occasionally attend classes or take exams on-campus. Playing email or phone tag with a professor regarding an online assignment can sometimes increase wait times because of everyone’s busy schedules. A student’s previous education may also play a role in decreasing or increasing the length of the master’s degree. A student who hasn’t finished their bachelor’s degree will have to pick up where they left off. A student with an unrelated degree, such as in technology or health care, may have to complete additional required coursework.
A Typical Master’s in Education Online Program
Any teacher who works in a K-12 public school will study similar classes. Basic coursework will introduce students to the science of teaching, child development and instructional theories. The last class is especially useful because students will explore innovate ways to design lesson plans, promote student learning and effectively manage large classrooms. Master’s in Education programs will always include a class that teaches students how to become an effective assessor.
Students will gain an understanding of both traditional and alternative classroom assessment tools and techniques. Online programs often include a class that covers diversity and special needs. Teachers who understand how to work with unique students will be much more effective educators and leaders. Finally, most master’s in education programs will cover how to teach basic curriculum subjects, such as math, science and language arts.
Master’s in Education Specializations
There are many specializations available for a Master’s in Education degree. For example, new elementary teachers may choose to concentrate in early childhood, elementary, secondary and special education. For instance, an elementary concentration would comprise of key classes designed to increase children’s social and academic development. The class focus would be on real-world case studies and classroom management skills.
Then again, experienced teachers may pursue a specialized master’s in education related to administration, teacher leadership and curriculum development. To illustrate, an administrative specialization would revolve around the skills and knowledge needed to succeed as a school principal. Lastly, educators who teach adults may choose to pursue an adult education concentration that will train them to excel as an educator in a corporation, community college or career school.
To review, a typical Master’s in education online program will take at least two years, but the actual time frame will depend on the student’s academic history and the target online program.
