Education is an impactful career field where teachers, administrators, and other professionals directly affect students’ lives. While a meaningful industry, not all education careers are currently in demand, and roles with the highest growth rates and promotions, such as instructional coordinators and educational administrators, require a master’s degree.
The easiest way to position yourself for these in-demand roles — or transition into education in the first place — is to earn your online Master of Education in Michigan. Virtual programs offer more flexibility, opportunities for specialization, and are often more affordable than their in-person counterparts. Plus, Michigan has some notable online education programs, including some that can be completed in one year.
Spotlighting Top Michigan Education Master’s Programs
There are many programs offering online Masters of Education in Michigan, but that doesn’t mean every program is top-notch. To help you identify the objective metrics of a good program, we found three schools that stood out in terms of affordability, online learning, and student support. Even if none of these programs are right for you, these schools can be used as quality barometers in your research.
Michigan State University
When researching schools with an online Master of Education in Michigan, consider the program at Michigan State University. This fully online program takes about 18 months and can be completed alongside a full-time job in education. The program offers six specialization options: literacy education, P-12 leadership, science and math education, special education, coaching, and education technology. While you can only specialize in one, you can earn a graduate certificate in another if interested in multiple areas. The program also offers virtual support, both in the classroom and for developing and reflecting on your career. One drawback is that there is no teacher licensure option, making it a better choice for those with previous experience and education in teaching and learning.
Central Michigan University
Central Michigan University hosts an array of online master’s in education. One of the school’s features is that it offers one of the widest varieties of specialization options among online Master of Education in Michigan programs. Virtual concentrations include curriculum and instruction, learning and education technology, reading and literacy, and special education. Since all these programs cover more advanced topics, they are better suited to students who already have their teaching license and a few years of experience. Central Michigan University is also a leader in incorporating educational technology into its lessons, evidenced by the doctoral program, which students can complete after their master’s. The school also offers virtual professional development resources, and all program curriculum includes time to reflect on career goals.
University of Michigan
The University of Michigan’s education graduate program ranks among the top online master’s in education in Michigan. Thanks to the school’s large faculty and ample resources, the school offers a master’s with licensure and graduate degrees for current educators. The latter lends itself to a fully online option, while the former is more likely to be offered in a hybrid format (online coursework and in-person student teaching hours). The fully online option offers specializations for work as a reading specialist, teaching English as a second language, and TESOL. The school is a leader in preparing educators to work with students whose first language isn’t English, making it a great option for anyone interested in fostering multilingual classrooms. The University of Michigan also offers scholarships to make its online master’s more affordable.
Popular Education Specializations in Michigan
Education master’s programs are designed for a wide variety of learners, but that doesn’t mean every program is right for every student. Instead, many programs offer specializations that help students customize their career path and gain valuable insights into part of the education system. Below, we’ve outlined five of the most popular education degree types in Michigan.
Master of Arts in Teaching
If you’re new to teaching, a master of arts in teaching is most likely the route for you. This degree culminates in eligibility for teaching licensure and has student teaching hours built into the curriculum, as required by the state. It’s also one of the most hands-on programs, with coursework covering the essentials and more complex teaching and learning topics.
Instructional Design
If interested in working in curriculum development, a degree in instructional design might be a good fit. The ideal candidate for this degree most likely already works in education but doesn’t want to teach only one class or course.
Science Education
As America races to improve STEM education, roles as science educators are in demand. Getting a master’s in science education is a great option for any current science teachers or those who want to teach this subject area.
Educational Leadership
Are you a current teacher or employee in education who dreams of taking on a leadership role, such as being a principal or superintendent? If so, a master’s in educational leadership may be your next career move. This specialization reviews leadership principles and how they apply to educational settings.
Education Technology
Anyone fascinated about how technology is impacting and improving education should consider specializing in educational technology. This is a great option for those who want to work at an edtech startup or as an education technology coordinator or teacher for a specific school district.
In-Demand Education Careers in Michigan
Not all education careers are in demand. In fact, the job growth rate for teachers is projected to decline one percent in coming year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Fortunately, there are many careers in education beyond teaching. The job growth for education administrators, for example, is on the rise (3% growth rate overall). Plus, most roles within in-demand fields require a master’s degree, meaning you’re perfectly positioned to take on one of these roles after you graduate.
| Career | MI 10th Percentile Pay | MI Median Pay | MI 90th Percentile Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education Administrators, All Other | $46,370 | $80,000 | $128,140 |
Instructional Coordinators | $46,810 | $75,510 | $104,810 |
Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary | $65,800 | $102,560 | $130,100 |
Source: The Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023
Educational Administrators
If interested in the big picture and managerial side of education, becoming an educational administrator may be a good career path. These individuals work in school districts, at higher education institutions, and sometimes with companies or nonprofits to develop curriculum and oversee day-to-day operations. This career is one of the fastest growing within the education space and often requires a master’s degree.
Instructional Coordinators
Instructional coordinators develop and implement curriculum within various school (and sometimes professional) settings. They can work for independent education or ed-tech companies or for school districts themselves. This versatility in workplace options makes instructional coordination a viable choice for many master’s students. Plus, a master’s degree is required for most of these roles.
Kindergarten or Secondary School Principal
Principals* run the school, literally. These individuals serve as the top leader of an elementary, middle, or high school. Their role is heavily rooted in communication and guiding others, making it a great option for someone who is enthusiastic about leadership. At the same time, principals are also responsible for disciplining kids and mediating conflicts between teachers. Principals can also work long hours and during after-school events, making it a better fit for someone who can dedicate considerable time to their career.
*Note: The BLS lists wage data for principals under “Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary.”
How to Become a Michigan Educator
Step 1: Choose a Specialization
Michigan requires all future teachers to complete a bachelor’s or graduate degree at an accredited institution. For new teachers, this institution should be in Michigan. Out-of-state teachers can transfer their degree from another state, so long as the out-of-state school is accredited. If someone already has a bachelor’s degree in another field, but wants to gain their teaching license, they may be able to do so faster through Michigan’s expedited program.
Step 2: Earn Your Online Master's Degree
While earning your master’s degree online, pay attention to the classes you are taking. To be eligible for state licensure, Michigan requires education students to take coursework in reading methods (three hours for secondary teachers and six hours for primary teachers). To find a program that meets this requirement, the state offers a search engine for state-accredited institutions. This list includes online or hybrid programs, including schools mentioned on this list.
Step 3: Gain Field Experience
Along with completing your degree, Michigan requires student teaching experience, or what they refer to as “clinical experience.” The reason the state uses this term is because this experiential component encompasses more than just student teaching; it includes any hours where students are engaging in a K-12 settings. All teaching licensure candidates, regardless of the age they teach, must complete 600 hours of clinical experience.
Note: If completing a teaching assistantship as part of your degree, that most likely won’t satisfy this requirement, as the clinical experience hours must be in a K-12 setting.
Step 4: Pass Your State Exams
All teachers in Michigan must pass the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC). This exam is taken at the end of your teaching degree and clinical experience hours and is grade-level and subject specific (i.e., there is an exam for teaching integrated science at the elementary and secondary level). The state offers free study guides and other preparation materials for this exam, and many of the best teaching programs in Michigan provide study groups and resources as well.
Step 5: Become Credentialed
After you pass your exam, there’s only one step left: get your license. It’s important to note that the process outlined above covers Michigan’s traditional path to teaching licensure. If you already have a bachelor’s degree in another field, you may be eligible for the state’s alternate route where you work as a teacher while getting your license.
The Cost of an Education Master’s in Michigan
Graduate programs charge $20,513 a year on average, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Since most master’s in education programs take two years to complete, that equates to over $40,000 for your degree. Fortunately, there are more affordable programs out there, as demonstrated in the table below.
Certain types of schools are more affordable than others. Typically, private schools charge higher tuition cost while public institutions cost less, since they are subsidized by the state government. This is especially true for residents of that state. If you’re a resident of Michigan, for example, you’ll likely find public university’s in-state tuition rates are your most affordable option.
| School | Program | No. of Credits | Est. Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Michigan | Master of Education | 30 | $24,390-$35,760 |
| Central Michigan University | MEd, Curriculum Instruction | 30 | $30,900 |
| Michigan State University | Master of Education | 30 | $27,990 |
Michigan Financial Aid Options for Education Majors
While Master of Education programs are pricey, many offer financial aid opportunities to bring the price down. The most common types of financial aid include scholarships, fellowships, grants, and student loans. Depending on the program, you may also be able to work as a teaching assistant for a reduced tuition price and/or teaching stipend.
Financial aid options also come from many sources, including national organizations, the federal government, and individual institutions. There are also some specifically for education students in Michigan. Four of the best opportunities that fit into the latter include:
- Michigan’s Student Loan Repayment Program for current educators
- Michigan’s Future Educator Fellowship
- Michigan’s Student Teacher Stipend
- Special Education Teacher Tuition Reimbursement
The state also offers additional grants to individual school districts, which can provide money for continuing education for their staff. These grants may be another great option if you are already employed as a teacher.
FAQs from Michigan Education Master’s Students
Is an online education degree a worthwhile investment in Michigan?
When offered through an accredited academic institution, an online degree in education bears the same weight as one completed in-person, with a few extra perks. For one, you don’t have to commute for an online degree, cutting down on transportation time and costs. Online programs are also easier to fit around a full-time job, especially if you enroll in a program that offers asynchronous, weekend, and/or evening classes.
Are education master’s only for people who want to become teachers?
There are two types of education master’s. The first, a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), is for people who want to become teachers. The second, a master’s in education (MEd), can be for teachers who want to advance their career or individuals who want to enter other careers within education, such as working as an educational administrator.
Does Michigan offer any regional programs for educators?
Michigan offers four paths to becoming an educator: the traditional route (pursuing a graduate or bachelor’s degree and then taking the licensure test), the alternative route (be employed as a full-time teacher while getting certified), the expedited route (complete teaching requirements and sit for the licensure exam faster), and the career/technical education route. Two of these, the alternative and expedited, offer programs sponsored by the state.
Can I legally work in Michigan if I am credentialed as an educator in another state?
Educators licensed in other states can legally work in Michigan on a temporary basis. To qualify, teachers should have a bachelor’s degree or graduate degree from an accredited institution, three years of experience, and CPR training. The teacher must also have at least three hours of reading methods education if licensed at the secondary level and six hours if licensed at the primary level. If these requirements are met, the teacher will be awarded a temporary teaching license for one year. During that time, their school district will help them prepare for the Michigan state licensure exam.
Can I earn a graduate certificate in education?
Graduate certificates are a quick, affordable way to learn more about the field of education. Some programs are designed for those who are new to the field, while others take a deep dive into a specific area of education, such as special needs teaching or educational technologies. These certificates can set you apart in job interviews, provide the knowledge required for a promotion, or help you decide if you want to pursue a master’s in a specific area of education.