Did you know that California teachers make $57,807, compared to the U.S. average of $47,989? If you’re considering a Master’s Degree in Education, there are many paths to choose from, from special education to school administration. 

One of the top questions you might ask is, how long does it take to complete? While each program can vary depending on the level of study, there’s an average amount. Read this guide on how long you can expect it to take for your master’s degree today!

Understanding How Long a Master’s Degree in Education Takes

Master’s degree requirements take about two years full-time. However, you can complete them normally within two semesters plus a summer term.

Or you might complete them in four semesters (two academic years). This will depend on factors such as the type of program. The school and number of credit hours will be factored in as well. 

How Long Is A Master’s Degree?

Options for master’s programs and the number of credits will determine their length. For example, while bachelor’s programs are about 120 credits, master’s programs are about 30-60. 

Each school will vary as far as the credits it requires. Traditional campuses will often have semesters that are about 15 weeks in length. However, some schools offer programs that are shorter overall. 

If you take the maximum course load without taking a term off, you can complete 30 credits in a year. How long it’ll take will be up to your schedule and how many courses you’ll take at once.

Your academic advisor can help guide you when picking out a timeline. Discuss busy times of the year for you and when you’ll need to take fewer or more classes. 

Can You Complete A Master’s In One Year?

Some colleges offer accelerated programs to complete them in one year. Keep in mind that you won’t have time for much else during this time. 

One course is generally about three credit hours. The number of credits necessary will vary between schools. It’s best to speak with an academic advisor to see your options. 

Dual-Degree Programs

You might decide to be in two different degree programs simultaneously. It normally takes less time than completing them separately. 

While each program takes about two years, you can complete them together in about three years. You might have to take summer classes to complete them in this timeframe. 

Exploring Program Options to Determine Time Commitment

A Master of Arts in Education can take a different length of time than a School Administration Program. It’s vital to take a look at the required courses plus electives.

You can speak with an academic advisor about transferrable credits if you’re at another school. While you might think that a program will take longer, attending summer classes and taking more at once can help speed up the process.

Speak with an advisor to see your options for how long the program will take and if there are ways to speed it up. In addition, flexibility in college is important since some students will be working or taking care of their families at the same time. 

A Master Of Arts In School Administration

A school principal can make well over $100,000 per year. The rate will depend on how long you’ve been working and the size of the district. 

A Master of Arts in School Administration is a 30-unit integrated program depending on the school. You’ll take courses in human resources, finance, management, assessment, and more. 

You’ll learn how to apply coursework to real-life responsibilities. Check the requirements for admission to each program. Depending on the school, you might be required to take courses or an examination before acceptance. 

You’ll be able to apply and become a superintendent or principal once complete. You’ll also be able to influence change and reform for schools. 

A Master Of Arts In Special Education

Help students with a Master of Arts in Special Education. You can choose from the moderate/severe or mild/moderate program. 

You’ll receive successful placement for credentialed students, field-oriented programs, and personalized attention. You’ll be able to teach students in private and public schools from K-12 up to age 22. 

This program is 44 units. For those who are general education teachers, they can receive a credential with a master’s degree with 30 units. 

Master Of Arts In Teaching English To
Speakers Of Other Languages

A master’s in TESOL will have you learn about the latest research and technology in this field. Teach English to immigrant populations, including underserved populations, children, and adults.

It can include other countries, not just the U.S. Gain an advanced degree in the global classroom. To speed up the process, you can also transfer units from Via Lingua, UC Santa Cruz, and UC San Diego. 

Benefits of Completing a Masters in Education

Careers in education can be rewarding since you’re shaping the minds of the future. A master’s program will help you to become a better teacher overall. 

You can choose a specialization whether you’ll be working with children, high schoolers, college students, etc. You’ll also get to decide on the course of study you’ll teach.

Completing a master’s program will allow you to learn recent research to apply in the classroom. It’s a way to invest in yourself and your classroom. 

Specialization

A master’s program can also allow you specialization in programs such as special education, early childhood, and more. These programs can help you work with students who require this specialized instruction. 

A Higher Salary

Lastly, you can earn a higher salary at schools. Even if you’re a new teacher, having a master’s program makes you more marketable and desirable. 

You might find that you’re offered other positions, such as department leadership roles or summer teaching jobs. Some districts and schools might also offer you a stipend to support your return to school. 

It’s Required

Some states and schools require you to have a Master’s in Education. It’s essential to be a step ahead in order to compete. 

Make A Difference

Make a difference from the special knowledge that you receive. You’ll have a unique perspective of the world after completing the program. 

You’ll learn the best way to engage students and how they learn. You’ll also learn about the challenges people face for access to education.

Some families and students might not have many resources. You’ll have more empathy and an understanding of people. 

Potential Accelerated Paths to Earning a Master’s Degree in Education

While most colleges take about two years to earn your master’s degree, some schools offer accelerated programs. They allow you to graduate in 12-18 months but aren’t for everyone. Since they’re accelerated, you won’t have a school-life balance; you’ll be doing homework and studying for tests more than full-time. 

You’ll have a higher course load and less flexibility in choosing electives. While you’ll be sacrificing time and flexibility, you can graduate much faster. Accelerated programs can require more experience to qualify. 

Overloading Credits 

Some schools will allow you to take a heavy courseload. Therefore, you might be able to complete the requirements and credits before the number of semesters. 

Before you do this, speak with an advisor to see if you can graduate early. Not every school allows its students to do this. You might have to take extra electives and semesters for completion. 

Funding Options for Completing an Education Master’s Degree

Some schools offer scholarship options or more affordable financial plans. You can also apply to see what grants or loans you can receive. Schools will have advisors to guide you in the financial department. 

Some schools will pay a stipend for their educators to receive their master’s degree. There’s also crowdfunding available. 

Decide How Long You’re Willing to Commit

Will you complete an accelerated, part-time, or full-time program? While an accelerated program is enticing, remember that you won’t have a school-life balance.

You’ll be studying for examinations more than full-time. So it’ll be difficult if you have a family or work obligations. 

Part-time works best for those with families or jobs. You can balance school while working and complete studying in your own time.

The one con is that it’ll take much longer than full-time programs. It often takes 4-6 years, depending on how many classes you take. 

Full-time programs are the most common. However, if you’re able to, you can complete your program in a couple of years. 

Planning Your Finances to Accommodate the Time Investment

Decide whether you’ll take an online or offline program. Some schools have hybrid options. 

Decide whether you’ll take classes in the daytime, evening, or weekend. If you’ll be working while attending school, evening and weekend classes work well. Online classes allow you to take care of work and family obligations while attending school. 

Some schools will have scholarships depending on the program. For example, limited Endowed and Restricted Scholarship Funds are available at some schools. If you’re a teacher at a Catholic school, some programs will have scholarships available. 

Admission Requirements 

Check the admission requirements to determine how long it’ll take to complete the program. But first, you might need certain courses before you can begin.

You’ll also need to see if you meet the other requirements, such as the GPA and bachelor’s degree. Some schools might require you to take examinations as well as a statement of intent. In addition, colleges might require you to have an interview with the program director. 

Before applying to the program, take a look at the courses you’ll need to take. That includes the foundational courses plus the electives. 

Verify the Faculty

Verify the faculty before you choose a program. See if the program and school are both accredited. While a one-year master’s program might be enticing, completing it’ll be extremely challenging. 

Flexibility 

Find a flexible program that’ll allow you to take weekend, evening, or online classes. This is important if you’ll complete your master’s program while teaching. Flexibility in class times will allow you time to prepare lessons and grade papers. 

Caters To Current Teachers

Find a program that has many current teachers enrolled. This will show that they’re trustworthy and will offer flexibility regarding your time commitments. 

Is A Master’s Degree In Education Worth It?

This is a personal decision and depends on your goals. If you’re interested in moving up in your career, staying up-to-date on the latest research and technology, and helping others, then it’s a great opportunity. 

A master’s degree might also be required to advance in administrative and leadership roles in education. Educational roles continue to be high in demand as well. For example, the need for high school teachers is expected to grow by 5% through 2031. 

There are projected to be about 77,900 openings for high school teachers on average each year. Many of these positions can be due to retirement or those who exit the workforce. 

Even if a program is longer than you’d like, you’ll be focused on what you’re passionate doing. You’ll be able to push for education reform, influence public policy, and more. 

How Long A Master’s Degree In Education Takes Explained

A Master’s Degree in Education varies depending on the school, program, and how many courses you take at once. You’ll need to decide whether flexibility or completing it sooner is more important. 

Are you ready to get started with a high-quality master’s degree program? We have various options, from school administration to special education.

Learn more about our graduate programs in education today. If you have any questions, we’re happy to answer them.