Address the Teacher Shortage With an Online1 Degree

An online master’s in education could help you position yourself for new career opportunities and foster relationships with students. If you have a bachelor’s degree in a field outside education, an online master’s in education can lead to teaching licensure as you transition into the education field.

Become a Teacher With a Master’s in Education

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Can I attend college online to earn a
teaching degree?
Yes, in part. GCU aims to provide an extensive online learning platform offering convenience and flexibility for individuals pursuing an education degree. Opting for an online education program may help you access quality courses from anywhere with internet connectivity, accommodating diverse schedules and lifestyles. This approach caters to those seeking a flexible learning environment while maintaining the same curriculum standards as on-campus programs. However, many teaching programs also include practicum/field experience hours that require in-person and hands-on experiences.
Do I need a degree to apply for a teaching certificate?
Yes, but it varies based on the state and the type of teaching certification you're pursuing. Generally, a bachelor’s degree is required for most certificate programs in teaching.4 However, if you completed a bachelor's degree in a subject other than education, there may be avenues available for you to pursue a teaching certificate in education, such as earning a master’s degree that leads to licensure.5
What are the education requirements for teachers?
Education requirements for teachers can vary by occupation and the state in which you plan to teach in, so be sure to check with your state’s department of education. Our enrollment counselors may be able to help you with this as well.

FAQ for GCU’s College of Education Programs

Discover concise answers to common queries about our College of Education, offering insights into our programs, faculty and resources. This section is designed to address your questions and hopefully provide a deeper understanding of education programs at GCU.

Minimum of $3,340 off Online Tuition for Those Who Qualify

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Complete the form to get more information on classes, tuition, admissions, transfers and more.

Have a bachelor’s degree? 
You can start your path to becoming an educator.

Online1 Master’s in Education Degrees Leading to Licensure

Minimum of $3,340 off Your Master's in Education Online Tuition for Those Who Qualify

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Online1 Master’s in Education Leading to Licensure

Have a bachelor’s degree? 

You can start your path to becoming and educator.

Find Your Purpose

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Fund Your Teaching Journey With GCU’s Scholarships

GCU offers scholarship opportunities to help make funding a private, Christian education affordable.

    “Even though I did the online program, it never felt as if I was one among many. At GCU, I never felt like I was alone.”

    Keziah Tinkle-Williams

    GCU Alum

    “GCU was always clear about costs. I received scholarships and grants, giving me as much financial opportunity as possible. When people say they’re thinking of going to college, I always tell them about GCU.”

    Sarah Gallé

    GCU Alum

    “Having the remote, online ability to organize your schedule around your day is great. You don’t have to worry about being in the classroom on certain nights between certain hours.”

    Tyrone Nance

    GCU Alum

    “I looked at about 20 universities and GCU fit within my budget and my time-frame — I could start right away. Those were the two main factors for me, and because it was offered as an online degree, it worked out perfectly.”

    Tamara Grace

    GCU Alum

    “I am incredibly blessed and beyond thankful for the entire staff of the Colangelo College of Business for all they have done to help students like me succeed. Each and every one of my professors took a chance on me and mentored me.”

    Havilah Houston

    GCU Alum

    “I’ve been able to be successful in my job and get to where I am today because of my professors and the GCU community.”

    Becca Wayne

    GCU Alum

Online Degrees that Lead to Initial Licensure

MEd in Early Childhood Education

From daycare centers to elementary schools, graduates with this master’s degree may find work in diverse environments where they can lead the learning experiences of children from infancy to eight years old.

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Total Credits: 47

MEd in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education

Total Credits: 56

Students can explore field experience opportunities in both inclusive learning environments and special education (birth to pre-K and K–3) environments. GCU candidates are educated to serve as effective advocates who positively influence children, families and communities in which they teach.

Request Info →

MEd in Elementary Education

Total Credits: 47

A Master of Education in Elementary Education focuses on all aspects of elementary education from teaching strategies and assessment methods to working with diverse learners. You can be equipped with an understanding of child development, instructional strategies and curriculum design, enabling you to create engaging and effective learning environments for your students.

Request Info →

MEd in Elementary Education and Special Education

Total Credits: 57

The master’s in elementary education and special education degree program examines strategies for creating inclusive classrooms and applying research-based instructional methods designed to facilitate students’ learning. You will be taught to tackle modern challenges as an educator in public or private school settings.

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MEd in Secondary Education: Humanities

Total Credits: 41

The master’s in secondary education degree program teaches pedagogical techniques for teaching grades 6–12, with a focus on subjects like English, social studies, history and education psychology. This program is designed to showcase the integration of technology, diversity in education and modern teaching methodologies to support students in today’s classrooms.

Available to Nevada Residents Only: MEd in Secondary Humanities Education (Total Credits: 44)

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MEd in Secondary Education: STEM

Total Credits: 41

In this program, you will be taught how to help middle and high school students (grades 6–12) apply science, technology, engineering and mathematics concepts and skills, including problem-solving and critical thinking.

Available to Nevada Residents Only: MEd in Secondary STEM Education (Total Credits: 44)

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MEd in Special Education

Total Credits: 44

This master's degree program is designed for those are passionate about working with K–12 children with mild to moderate exceptionalities. Students are taught teaching and classroom strategies and skills that suit the needs of children with specialized learning circumstances. 

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MEd in Special Education: Moderate to Severe

Total Credits: 47

The Master of Education (MEd) in Special Education: Moderate to Severe program is designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree who are interested in teaching K–12 children with advanced exceptionalities. This master’s degree program can prepare you to seek initial teaching licensure in the field of moderate-to-severe special education.

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25% off Tuition§
National Center for Teacher Preparation’s Initial Teacher Licensure Scholarship

Continue your path to teacher certification! Take your master’s program through our online offering, and GCU will offer you 25% off tuition for your program, if you qualify.§

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Benefits of an Online1 GCU Degree

GCU’s online courses offer flexibility and convenience for working professionals and students with busy schedules. Study on your own time, making it simpler to balance education with work, family and other commitments.

Flexible Programs

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GCU’s faculty advise students on how to grow academically, spiritually and personally. They bring expertise in their fields and are passionate educators and collaborators who can enhance the college experience for all students.

Faculty & Leadership

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GCU is committed to helping you find the academic guidance to complete your degree. Students have access to resources such as academic advising, career counseling and technical support.

Support Services

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    Flexible Programs

    GCU’s online courses offer flexibility and convenience for working professionals and students with busy schedules. Study on your own time, making it simpler to balance education with work, family and other commitments.

    Request Info →

    Faculty & Leadership

    GCU’s faculty advise students on how to grow academically, spiritually and personally. They bring expertise in their fields and are passionate educators and collaborators who can enhance the college experience for all students.

    Request Info →

    Support Services

    GCU is committed to helping you find the academic guidance to complete your degree. Students have access to resources such as academic advising, career counseling and technical support.

    Request Info →

Request more information now and see where GCU can take you.

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Minimum of $3,340
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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Competitive, affordable tuition

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GCU has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968

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Most online classes starting every week

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‡ gcu_grad_ed_scholarship2

§ MOU 9237: This scholarship is only valid for applicants who are currently working for an accredited school or district, seeking initial teacher licensure, not already a licensed teacher and applying for one of the following Master of Education programs: Early Childhood Education, Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education, Elementary Education, Elementary Education and Special Education, Secondary Education (any emphasis), Special Education (any emphasis). This scholarship cannot be used in conjunction with any other GCU scholarships. This scholarship will be applied toward your tuition only, and you will not receive funds in excess of your charges.

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

alumni_disclaimer

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Vilorio, D. (2016, June). Teaching for a Living. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved on Nov. 20, 2024.

Indeed. (2023, Jan. 26). How To Get a Teaching Certificate After Earning a Bachelor's Degree. Retrieved on Nov. 20, 2024.

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Early Childhood Education Degrees

MEd in Early Childhood Education

Total Credits: 47

From daycare centers to elementary schools, graduates with this master’s degree may find work in diverse environments where they can lead the learning experiences of children from infancy to eight years old.

Request Info →

MEd in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education

Total Credits: 56

Students can explore field experience opportunities in both inclusive learning environments and special education (birth to pre-K and K–3) environments. GCU candidates are educated to serve as effective advocates who positively influence children, families and communities in which they teach.

Request Info →
Elementary Education Degrees

MEd in Elementary Education

Total Credits: 47

A Master of Education in Elementary Education focuses on all aspects of elementary education from teaching strategies and assessment methods to working with diverse learners. You can be equipped with an understanding of child development, instructional strategies and curriculum design, enabling you to create engaging and effective learning environments for your students.

Request Info →

MEd in Elementary Education and Special Education

Total Credits: 57

The master’s in elementary education and special education degree program examines strategies for creating inclusive classrooms and applying research-based instructional methods designed to facilitate students’ learning. You will be taught to tackle modern challenges as an educator in public or private school settings.

Request Info →
Secondary Education Degrees

MEd in Secondary Education: Humanities

Total Credits: 41

The master’s in secondary education degree program teaches pedagogical techniques for teaching grades 6–12, with a focus on subjects like English, social studies, history and education psychology. This program is designed to showcase the integration of technology, diversity in education and modern teaching methodologies to support students in today’s classrooms.

Available to Nevada Residents Only: MEd in Secondary Humanities Education (Total Credits: 44)

Request Info →

MEd in Secondary Education: STEM

Total Credits: 41

In this program, you will be taught how to help middle and high school students (grades 6–12) apply science, technology, engineering and mathematics concepts and skills, including problem-solving and critical thinking.

Available to Nevada Residents Only: MEd in Secondary STEM Education (Total Credits: 44)

Request Info →
Special Education Degrees

MEd in Special Education

Total Credits: 44

This master's degree program is designed for those are passionate about working with K–12 children with mild to moderate exceptionalities. Students are taught teaching and classroom strategies and skills that suit the needs of children with specialized learning circumstances.

Request Info →

MEd in Special Education: Moderate to Severe

Total Credits: 47

The Master of Education (MEd) in Special Education: Moderate to Severe program is designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree who are interested in teaching K–12 children with advanced exceptionalities. This master’s degree program can prepare you to seek initial teaching licensure in the field of moderate-to-severe special education.

Request Info →