Best Master’s in Education Degree Programs in Connecticut

From the fall foliage of Mystic Seaport to the innovation hubs in Stamford, Connecticut, the state combines historic charm with cutting‑edge education initiatives. The Constitution State serves over 550,000 K‑12 students across urban centers and rural towns, boasting top‑ranked districts in Westport and Darien—yet it grapples with chronic shortages in STEM and special‑education roles. Earning a Master’s in Education (M.Ed.) equips teachers and career‑changers to meet local demands, access leadership pipelines, and command higher salaries. This guide ranks Connecticut’s best M.Ed. programs, highlights the quickest and most affordable degrees, outlines licensure pathways, and spotlights in‑demand specialties and employers.

2026 Best Master’s in Education Degree Programs in Connecticut

Looking for the best master’s in education degree programs in Connecticut? At mastersineducation.org, we’ve ranked the top options to help you find the right fit for your career goals. Our rankings consider factors like program quality, affordability, and student outcomes to give you reliable insights. Explore our list to discover schools that excel in teacher preparation and educational leadership. For details on how we create these rankings, check out our https://mastersineducation.org/rankings-methodology/.
#1

University of Connecticut

Storrs, CT - Public 4-Year - uconn.edu

Master's - Teacher Certification Program for College Graduates

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Connecticut's Teacher Certification Program for College Graduates is a 10-month hybrid program offering a pathway to Connecticut Teacher Certification and a Master's degree. Available at four campuses, it includes paid internships, reduced tuition, and flexible scheduling, preparing educators for inclusive and equitable classrooms. As a master's level program, it may require an entrance exam, but this is not explicitly stated in the provided information.

  • 10-month certification program
  • Earn Master's and Certification
  • Hybrid and in-person options
  • Four Connecticut campuses
  • Paid internship opportunities
  • Tuition reduced by $10,000
  • Multiple certification areas
  • Full-time coursework format

Master's - Teacher Certification Program for College Graduates (Secondary Education)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Focused on Secondary Education, the University of Connecticut's Teacher Certification Program for College Graduates (TCPCG) is a hybrid 10-month program leading to a Master of Arts degree and certification. It features paid internships, reduced tuition from Summer 2024, and options across four campuses, designed for aspiring secondary educators. Entrance exams may be required for this master's program, though specifics are not provided.

  • 10-month program duration.
  • Hybrid in-person/online format.
  • Earn a Master of Arts degree.
  • Connecticut Teacher Certification.
  • Paid internships available.
  • Reduced tuition model.
  • Four campus options in CT.
  • Focus on Secondary Education.
  • Full-time coursework required.
  • Summer, Fall, Spring semesters.

Master's - Teacher Certification Program for College Graduates (Elementary Education)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Concentrating on Elementary Education, the University of Connecticut's TCPCG offers a 10-month hybrid program for earning a Master of Arts degree and teacher certification. With paid internships, reduced tuition starting Summer 2024, and a focus on inclusive education, it prepares graduates for immediate classroom impact. An entrance exam might be necessary for this master's level program, but details are not specified.

  • 10-month program duration.
  • Hybrid in-person/online format.
  • Earn Connecticut Teacher Certification.
  • Master of Arts degree included.
  • Paid internships available.
  • Reduced tuition starting Summer 2024.
  • Four campuses across Connecticut.
  • Full-time coursework required.
  • Summer, Fall, Spring semesters.
  • Focus on inclusive education.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

Southern Connecticut State University

New Haven, CT - Public 4-Year - southernct.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Bilingual/Elementary Education)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Southern Connecticut State University offers a unique Master of Arts in Teaching program focused on Bilingual and Elementary Education, providing initial certification and a bilingual endorsement. This 51-credit hybrid program includes extensive classroom experience, such as field placements and a semester of student teaching in bilingual settings, preparing graduates with multicultural teaching skills for Connecticut's schools. As a master's program, it may require an entrance exam like the GRE, but this is not explicitly stated in the provided data.

  • Only MAT of its kind in CT
  • 51-credit comprehensive program
  • Initial elementary certification
  • Bilingual education endorsement
  • Semester-long student teaching
  • Real-world field placement opportunities
  • Designed for bachelor's graduates

Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Elementary Education)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Southern Connecticut State University's Master of Arts in Teaching with a concentration in Elementary Education is a 44-credit hybrid program leading to certification for grades 1-6. It combines academic coursework with practical experiences, including field observations and a semester of student teaching, ideal for bachelor's degree holders transitioning into teaching. For this master's program, an entrance exam such as the GRE might be required, though it is not specified in the data.

  • 44-credit hybrid program.
  • Leads to CT certification.
  • Grades one through six.
  • Includes field placement observations.
  • Semester-long student teaching.
  • For aspiring educators.
  • Initial certification and master's.
  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • Real-world teaching experience.
  • Comprehensive classroom preparation.

Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (English)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Master of Arts in Teaching with an English concentration at Southern Connecticut State University is designed for those with a bachelor's in English, offering certification for middle or high school teaching. This hybrid program includes 16 additional English credits, meets NCTE and state standards, and provides resources like graduate assistantships and symposiums. As a master's program, it may necessitate an entrance exam like the GRE, but this detail is not confirmed in the provided information.

  • Hybrid program format.
  • 16 additional English credits.
  • Meets NCTE and CT standards.
  • Courses include English Linguistics.
  • Access to graduate assistantships.
  • Engage in social justice symposium.
  • For middle/high school certification.
  • Requires Bachelor’s in English.
  • Offers elective English courses.
  • Joint degree with Education College.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

Eastern Connecticut State University

Willimantic, CT - Public 4-Year - easternct.edu

Master's - MS in Education (Early Childhood Education)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Eastern Connecticut State University's MS in Education offers a comprehensive pathway to teaching certification, focusing on early childhood, elementary, and secondary levels. The program emphasizes practical classroom experiences each semester, covering methods, assessment, and management. It supports diversity and best practices, preparing educators for transformative careers. With a 30-credit curriculum at $714 per credit, it requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and may need the Praxis II for secondary certification. No entrance exam is specified for this master's program.

  • Nationally accredited program
  • $714 per credit hour
  • 30 total credit program
  • 3 annual start dates
  • Online and campus options
  • Certification in N-3, 1-6, 7-12
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Praxis II needed (secondary)
  • K-12 classroom experiences
  • Graduate assistantships available

Master's - Educational Technology, M.S.

Online Learning - Visit Website

Eastern Connecticut State University's M.S. in Educational Technology is a fully online program that equips educators with advanced technological skills for transforming learning environments. It covers curriculum planning, assistive technology, and global impacts, offering flexibility with no application deadlines. The 30-credit program costs $714 per credit and requires a minimum 3.0 GPA. No entrance exam is mentioned for this master's program.

  • 100% Online Asynchronous Program
  • 30 Total Credit Hours
  • $714 Per Credit Hour
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
  • No Application Deadline
  • Expert Faculty Instruction
  • Multiple Career Path Options
  • Flexible Learning Schedule

Master's - Master of Science in Elementary Education

Campus Based - Visit Website

Eastern Connecticut State University's Master of Science in Elementary Education prepares educators for Grades 1-6 certification, focusing on pedagogical techniques, classroom management, and technology. It includes hands-on experiences and student teaching, with a 30-credit curriculum at $714 per credit. The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and is nationally accredited. No entrance exam is specified for this master's program.

  • Initial Connecticut teaching certification
  • K-12 classroom experience each semester
  • Nationally accredited program
  • 30-credit curriculum
  • $714 per credit hour
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Small campus and online classes
  • Graduate assistantships available
  • Multiple specialization options

Master's - Education, M.S. (Secondary Education)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Eastern Connecticut State University's M.S. in Education with a Secondary Education concentration provides certification for Grades 7-12, allowing specializations in subjects like Biology or English. It includes hands-on classroom experiences, pedagogical training, and coursework in management and technology. The 30-credit program costs $714 per credit and requires a minimum 3.0 GPA. No entrance exam is mentioned for this master's program.

  • 30-credit graduate program
  • Grades 7-12 certification
  • Nationally accredited program
  • $714 per credit hour
  • K-12 classroom experience
  • Multiple subject specializations
  • Dedicated faculty
  • Small class sizes
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#4

Western Connecticut State University

Danbury, CT - Public 4-Year - wcsu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Education in Special Education (PK-12)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Western Connecticut State University offers an online Master of Science in Education in Special Education (PK-12), a one-year, 30-credit program designed for educators aiming to enhance inclusive practices in diverse classrooms. It emphasizes research-based methods, collaborative teaching strategies, and practical experiences through practicums in K-5 and 6-12 settings. The program requires an initial teaching certificate and does not necessitate an entrance exam, focusing on developing skills in assessment, intervention planning, and cultural competence to support students with exceptional needs effectively.

  • One-year online program
  • 30 total credit hours
  • PK-12 special education focus
  • Inquiry-based learning approach
  • Practicum in K-5 and 6-12 settings
  • Collaborative teaching strategies
  • Research-based instructional methods
  • Inclusive classroom preparation
  • Initial teaching certificate required
#5

University of Saint Joseph

West Hartford, CT - Private 4-year - usj.edu

Master's - Early Childhood/Special Education, M.A.T.

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Saint Joseph's Master of Arts in Teaching in Early Childhood/Special Education prepares educators for PK-3 classrooms with a focus on equity and inclusive practices. This campus-based program offers dual licensure in Connecticut, emphasizing child development, curriculum design, and specialized instructional strategies through a cohort model. It requires a 2.67 minimum GPA and includes comprehensive student teaching. No entrance exam is mentioned as required.

  • Dual PK-3 Teacher Licensure
  • Cohort-based Learning Model
  • 40 Total Credit Program
  • 2.67 Minimum GPA Required
  • Equity-Focused Curriculum
  • Comprehensive Student Teaching
  • Specialized Early Education Focus

Master's - Master of Arts in Education (Educational Technology)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Master of Arts in Education with a concentration in Educational Technology at the University of Saint Joseph is a hybrid program that equips educators to integrate digital tools into teaching. Covering 30 credit hours, it focuses on technology-driven curriculum design and student engagement, requiring a 2.5 undergraduate GPA and a comprehensive exam, but no entrance exam is specified.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Technology integration focus
  • 30 total credit hours
  • Minimum 2.5 undergraduate GPA
  • Comprehensive exam required
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#6

Central Connecticut State University

New Britain, CT - Public 4-Year - ccsu.edu

Master's - Teacher Education, MAT

Campus Based - Visit Website

Central Connecticut State University's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program is an intensive, interdisciplinary pathway for aspiring educators, focusing on secondary education. It equips candidates with advanced pedagogical skills, content expertise, and strategies for diverse student needs, emphasizing literacy development and civic engagement. The program includes a full-time student teaching experience and is cohort-based, preparing graduates for modern classroom challenges. No entrance exam is required for admission.

  • Selective graduate teacher certification program
  • Interdisciplinary cohort-based learning
  • Comprehensive secondary education focus
  • Full-time student teaching experience
  • Prepares educators for diverse classrooms
#7

University of Hartford

West Hartford, CT - Private 4-year - hartford.edu

Master's - MEd in Elementary Education

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Hartford's MEd in Elementary Education is a 39-credit online program designed for aspiring teachers seeking initial PK-6 certification. It integrates child development, curriculum design, and inclusive teaching strategies, preparing graduates for diverse classrooms. No entrance exam is required, and the program includes a 14-week student teaching component. Applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA, and no prior education degree is necessary, making it accessible for career changers and recent graduates.

  • Fully online master's program
  • PK-6 teaching certification
  • 39 total credit hours
  • No prior education degree required
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA needed
  • 14-week student teaching required
  • Diverse content area preparation
  • Supports inclusive classrooms
#8

Sacred Heart University

Fairfield, CT - Private 4-year - sacredheart.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Sacred Heart University's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) is an accelerated on-campus program that enables students to earn initial teaching certification in just one additional year through its innovative Five-Year Education pathway. This Roman Catholic institution, which is military-friendly, integrates seven preparatory undergraduate courses with graduate studies, covering tuition for graduate credits. Students benefit from practical teaching skills, mentorship by experienced instructors, and a full school-year internship in public schools, providing a comprehensive route to certification. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

  • One-year accelerated MAT
  • Initial teaching certification
  • Full school-year internship
  • Seven preparatory undergraduate courses
  • Graduate credit tuition coverage
#9

University of Bridgeport

Bridgeport, CT - Private 4-year - bridgeport.edu

Master's - MS in Secondary Education

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Bridgeport's MS in Secondary Education equips aspiring teachers for grades 7-12 with versatile subject specializations in areas like Business, English, History, Mathematics, Science, and Music. It offers flexible pathways including intern and traditional tracks, supported by two campus locations in Bridgeport and Waterbury, and provides comprehensive services leading to certification. This program does not require an entrance exam, focusing on robust content knowledge and pedagogical skills for Connecticut's educational needs.

  • Multiple subject specialization options
  • Flexible intern/traditional student paths
  • Two campus locations: Bridgeport, Waterbury
  • Grades 7-12 teacher certification
  • Comprehensive support services
  • Sixth Year Diploma option available

Master's - MS in Secondary Education (Business)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Focused on the Business concentration, this MS in Secondary Education at the University of Bridgeport prepares educators for teaching business subjects in grades 7-12, with options for traditional or intern completion. It emphasizes practical teaching techniques and content mastery, available at Bridgeport and Waterbury campuses, and does not mandate an entrance exam, catering to professionals seeking flexible certification paths.

  • Secondary Education MS
  • Business teaching concentration
  • Grades 7-12 certification
  • Flexible learning options
  • Two campus locations
  • Traditional and intern tracks
  • Content-focused curriculum

Master's - MS in Secondary Education (English)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Specializing in English, the MS in Secondary Education at the University of Bridgeport trains educators for grades 7-12, offering initial certification through flexible pathways at multiple campuses. It enhances pedagogical skills for English instruction without an entrance exam requirement, designed for those with strong content backgrounds to succeed in dynamic teaching roles.

  • Initial teacher certification
  • Flexible learning locations
  • Multiple program pathway options
  • English concentration available
  • Grades 7-12 teaching focus
Show 2 More Programs ˅
*Data source: NCES Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, 2024.

Learn more about our methodology

Fastest M.Ed. Programs in Connecticut

Connecticut’s typical M.Ed. completion time is two years, but some institutions offer quick, short, accelerated tracks that wrap up in 12–18 months through summer intensives and blended formats.

SchoolSpecialtyProgram LengthFormat
Central Connecticut State UniversitySpecial Education12 monthsHybrid
University of ConnecticutCurriculum & Instruction12–14 monthsOnline + campus
Quinnipiac UniversityInstructional Technology12–15 monthsHybrid
Sacred Heart UniversityEducational Leadership15 monthsHybrid
Fairfield UniversityLiteracy & Language14 monthsCampus
Southern Connecticut State UniversitySchool Counseling12 monthsFully online

For an expanded list of accelerated options, see more accelerated programs.

Cheapest M.Ed. Programs in Connecticut

Graduate tuition in Connecticut can exceed $700 per credit at private colleges, but public institutions keep costs affordable, low‑cost, budget‑friendly for in‑state residents and online learners.

SchoolSpecialtyTuition Range*Format
Central Connecticut State UniversitySpecial Education$365/creditHybrid
Southern Connecticut State UniversitySchool Counseling$380/creditFully online
University of ConnecticutCurriculum & Instruction$430/credit in‑stateOnline + campus
Western Connecticut State UniversityEducational Leadership$395/creditCampus
Eastern Connecticut State UniversityM.Ed. (all concentrations)$375/credit in‑stateCampus
Charter Oak State CollegeM.Ed. in Adult Learning$350/creditFully online

*2024–25 rates; fees vary. For more budget options, explore the full list of affordable programs.

What Master’s in Education Degrees Lead to Connecticut Teacher Licensure?

The State Department of Education governs Connecticut’s educator certification. Graduate programs can embed preparation for Initial and Professional educator certifications, including edTPA and the Connecticut Foundations of Reading tests.

Licensure PathCertification TierKey RequirementsTypical Format
Integrated M.Ed. + Initial Cert.Initial (K–12)Bachelor’s, GPA ≥ 2.75, edTPA, Foundations of Reading36–42 credits; online + field practicum
M.Ed. for Professional Cert.ProfessionalValid initial cert., 3 years teaching, 3.0 GPA30 credits; online or campus
M.Ed. in Special Education + Cert.Special Ed.Bachelor’s, edTPA, autism endorsement42–48 credits; hybrid

For full licensure details and program-specific checklists, see our full teaching‑licensure guide.

Are Online Master’s in Education Programs Available in Connecticut?

Yes—public and private institutions statewide offer fully online M.Ed. concentrations, often with in‑state tuition for residents. Online degrees remove commute barriers, expand start dates, and provide asynchronous learning, but may require local practicum coordination and tech fees ($50–$100).

Pros

  • Flexible pacing for working professionals
  • Expanded course offerings in niche areas
  • Consistent tuition for online learners

Potential Drawbacks

  • Less cohort interaction
  • Self‑directed study in accelerated terms
  • Additional fees for proctored exams

Learn more on our online M.Ed. programs page.

Admissions Requirements for M.Ed. Programs in Connecticut

Nearly all programs require:

  • Bachelor’s degree (min. 2.75 GPA)
  • Official transcripts
  • edTPA & Foundations of Reading or GRE/MAT (waivers possible)
  • Résumé/CV
  • Two recommendation letters
  • Statement of purpose
  • Background check for field placements

Popular Master’s in Education Specialties in Connecticut

Connecticut educators frequently pursue these specialties:

Top Employers & Districts Hiring M.Ed. Graduates

Connecticut’s prominent education employers include:

  • Connecticut State Department of Education – policy, curriculum, assessment roles
  • Stamford Public Schools – a large urban district with innovation initiatives
  • New Haven Public Schools – a diverse district prioritizing equity
  • Westport Public Schools – top‑ranked district with leadership pathways
  • Teach For America – Connecticut Corps – places educators in underserved areas
  • Achievement First Connecticut – charter network expanding across the state
  • Yale University School of Education – graduate‑level research, curriculum design

For salary insights, visit our M.Ed. Salary Guide.

Your Next Step Toward a Master’s in Education in Connecticut

Connecticut’s blend of historic charm, educational innovation, and commitment to equity makes it an ideal place to advance your teaching career. A master’s degree in education opens doors to leadership, specialized roles, and higher pay. Compare programs, request information, and start your journey today.

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