Master's in Education Degree Programs

The master's in education degree programs at GCU offer opportunities for those with a calling to education to either prepare to advance their knowledge or begin their journey toward licensure. Our advanced programs for continuing education are designed for current educators looking to continue growing their knowledge in the field, with a focus on advanced methods for educators.

For those seeking licensure or looking to enter the field of education for the first time, but with a degree in a field other than education, we have initial programs that lead to licensure and programs that do not lead to licensure.

How long does it take to get a degree in education online?
In GCU's teaching degree programs online, you will take one class at a time while earning your online degree in education, allowing you to maximize learning and build your knowledge base. Your program length will depend on which online degree in education you choose. You may have an opportunity to earn credit through GCU-approved certificates, national exams or transfer credits.5 Fill out the form on this page to be contacted by an enrollment counselor.
What are online teaching degree requirements?
Admission requirements for our education degree programs online will depend on whether you want to earn an undergraduate or graduate degree. If you are a qualified student who is committed and dedicated to learning the art and science of teaching, willing to uphold the university's vision and mission and open to the possibility of spiritual and intellectual development, you are encouraged to apply.6
What is the difference between a “Leads to initial teacher licensure” and a “Does not lead to initial teacher licensure” program?

Education degree programs online or on campus that lead to licensure will include a student teaching or internship experience needed to seek certification. Education degree programs online or on campus that do not lead to licensure may include many of the same courses as a licensure program but do not have the same student teaching or internship requirements. Additionally, most non-licensure education degree programs are designed for teachers who already hold licensure. A program that leads to licensure is ideal for students who are looking to earn their initial teaching license and may already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.

As you choose the right degree program for you, it is important to be aware of different certification requirements specific to the state you plan to teach or lead in.

Are online education degrees respected?
Seeking to advance your education displays the dedication and commitment you have toward earning a degree and potentially bettering your life and career. GCU’s College of Education degree programs, whether obtained in the online or campus classroom, are aligned to academic standards specific to your program of study. GCU’s education and teaching degrees online also include required field experiences, an important factor in not only fulfilling degree requirements, but also gaining knowledge and understanding in a practical setting.
What is the difference between an MA in Education and a Master of Education (MEd)?
Master of Education programs that lead to teacher certification can help anyone with a passion for education to take the steps to becoming a classroom teacher. GCU's MEd graduates participate in advanced coursework. The topics covered throughout the degree programs can prepare students for working with learners from intellectually and culturally diverse backgrounds. Similar to Master of Education programs, Master of Arts and Master of Science in Education programs can help qualify candidates to apply advanced theories in specific content areas and instructional methods, typically without leading to teacher certification.
Do online education degree programs offer in-classroom teacher training?
If you are pursuing an accredited online education degree, such as GCU’s teaching degree program online, in-person student teaching is offered and typically required if the online education degree offers a pathway to licensure. GCU’s teaching degree programs online offer a balance of theory and field experience. During your student teaching opportunity, you can learn valuable skills, such as managing and engaging a classroom through pedagogical tools and hands-on practice to help prepare you to lead your own classroom.

Frequently Asked Questions

Take a look for answers to some questions you may be asking about education degrees at GCU. If you still have more questions, fill out the form at the top of this page to talk to a university counselor.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a degree in education online?
In GCU's teaching degree programs online, you will take one class at a time while earning your online degree in education, allowing you to maximize learning and build your knowledge base. Your program length will depend on which online degree in education you choose. You may have an opportunity to earn credit through GCU-approved certificates, national exams or transfer credits.5 Fill out the form on this page to be contacted by an enrollment counselor.
What are online teaching degree requirements?
Admission requirements for our education degree programs online will depend on whether you want to earn an undergraduate or graduate degree. If you are a qualified student who is committed and dedicated to learning the art and science of teaching, willing to uphold the university's vision and mission and open to the possibility of spiritual and intellectual development, you are encouraged to apply.6
What is the difference between a “Leads to initial teacher licensure” and a “Does not lead to initial teacher licensure” program?

Education degree programs online or on campus that lead to licensure will include a student teaching or internship experience needed to seek certification. Education degree programs online or on campus that do not lead to licensure may include many of the same courses as a licensure program but do not have the same student teaching or internship requirements. Additionally, most non-licensure education degree programs are designed for teachers who already hold licensure. A program that leads to licensure is ideal for students who are looking to earn their initial teaching license and may already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.

As you choose the right degree program for you, it is important to be aware of different certification requirements specific to the state you plan to teach or lead in.

Are online education degrees respected?
Seeking to advance your education displays the dedication and commitment you have toward earning a degree and potentially bettering your life and career. GCU’s College of Education degree programs, whether obtained in the online or campus classroom, are aligned to academic standards specific to your program of study. GCU’s education and teaching degrees online also include required field experiences, an important factor in not only fulfilling degree requirements, but also gaining knowledge and understanding in a practical setting.
What is the difference between an MA in Education and a Master of Education (MEd)?
Master of Education programs that lead to teacher certification can help anyone with a passion for education to take the steps to becoming a classroom teacher. GCU's MEd graduates participate in advanced coursework. The topics covered throughout the degree programs can prepare students for working with learners from intellectually and culturally diverse backgrounds. Similar to Master of Education programs, Master of Arts and Master of Science in Education programs can help qualify candidates to apply advanced theories in specific content areas and instructional methods, typically without leading to teacher certification.
Do online education degree programs offer in-classroom teacher training?
If you are pursuing an accredited online education degree, such as GCU’s teaching degree program online, in-person student teaching is offered and typically required if the online education degree offers a pathway to licensure. GCU’s teaching degree programs online offer a balance of theory and field experience. During your student teaching opportunity, you can learn valuable skills, such as managing and engaging a classroom through pedagogical tools and hands-on practice to help prepare you to lead your own classroom.

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Grand Canyon University

GCU is a private Christian university. We are dedicated to helping our students change their lives for the better through education. Our knowledgeable faculty and staff will be with you every step of the way to help you reach your goals.

Competitive, affordable tuition rate so that furthering education is within reach for all2

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Online courses offer flexibility and convenience for working professionals and students with busy schedules

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Online1 Education Degrees at Grand Canyon University

Our online courses offer a curriculum developed so that you receive a well-rounded education to help position yourself for possible career advancement. Backed by the legacy of our traditional campus, GCU is an accredited university with dynamic academic programs, informed by industry and student learning outcomes.

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1 Excluding observational and practice-based experiences, and student teaching. 

2 Based on the 2021-22 academic year, GCU’s private Christian tuition is 47% more affordable than the average out-of-state tuition of Arizona’s three state universities. 

3 alumni2

4 Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation, P.O. Box 7511, Fairfax Station, VA 22039-9998. Email: [email protected] aaqep.org.

5 https://www.gcu.edu/admissions/college-transfer-center.php

6 https://www.gcu.edu/admissions

7 Includes students who have participated in an online class in August or September 2022 and does not include students in a cohort program.

8 The Master of Education in Educational Administration, offered by the College of Education, is a regionally accredited program approved by the State of Arizona. It aligns with the Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (PSEL, 2015) led by the National Policy Board for Educational Administration (NPBEA, 2018).

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Accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP)4

Grand Canyon University is a member in good standing of the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), a national accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. The programs listed below have been awarded full accreditation by AAQEP through June 30, 2026.

Initial Programs (Undergraduate)

Advanced Programs (Graduate Licensure/Advanced Degree Programs):
Reading - Elementary and Secondary
TESOL

Student Teaching

Master's Degree Programs for 
Current Educators

If you are looking to prepare to advance your education by earning your next degree, you may be interested in our variety of master's in education degree programs designed for current educators looking to position themselves to take the next step in their career. Explore our programs in areas like curriculum and instruction, educational administration, instructional technology and more.

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Programs for 
Postsecondary Education

Do you aspire to teach students at a postsecondary institution? GCU’s master’s degree programs in education with diverse content areas with an emphasis in education can help prepare you to teach at the postsecondary level. In these programs, you can gain skills in pedagogical training, strategic curriculum design and diverse adult learning theories.

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Student Teaching
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Initial Programs for
Teacher Licensure & Non-Licensure

The initial programs offered by the College of Education can give you the opportunity to start the exciting journey to becoming an educator. We offer both initial teacher licensure (ITL) and non-licensure programs in a variety of areas so that you can prepare to teach students of all ages, including early childhood, elementary and secondary. Or, pursue your calling to teach those with special learning needs by earning a Master of Education in Special Education.

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We promise to assist all COE graduates who need additional support or who are experiencing challenges in an educational setting; and since 1984, we have upheld this promise.

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Over 85 GCU alumni have been recognized in the field of education, with some receiving Superintendent, Administrator or Teacher of the Year award as of May 2023.

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Education Master's Degree Scholarship

If you are a new student and looking to earn your education or secondary education master’s degree, you may be eligible to receive a minimum of $3,340 off (up to $5,950 off) tuition.‡

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