Best Master’s in Education Degree Programs in Kansas
From the amber waves of grain that inspired the state song to the cutting‑edge aerospace labs of Wichita—“the Air Capital of the World”—Kansas mixes heartland heritage with high‑tech ambition. The Sunflower State educates roughly 490,000 K‑12 students across 286 districts, yet a 2024 Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) survey revealed over 1,800 teacher vacancies, particularly in special education and STEM. To close the gap, Kansas offers initiatives like the Teacher Service Scholarship and district “grow‑your‑own” programs that fund graduate study.
For current educators and career‑changers alike, a Master’s in Education (M.Ed.) unlocks higher salaries, leadership roles, and specialist endorsements in reading, STEM integration, or gifted education. Kansas universities deliver full online, hybrid, and evening degrees, letting you balance study with classroom or family obligations. This guide ranks the state’s top M.Ed. programs, spotlights fast and affordable options, explains licensure pathways, and highlights high‑demand specialties and major employers.

Table of Contents
2026 Best Master’s in Education Degree Programs in Kansas
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu
Master's - MSE in Curriculum & Instruction (The Effective Teacher)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Fort Hays State University's online MSE in Curriculum & Instruction with a concentration in The Effective Teacher is designed for licensed educators seeking to enhance pedagogical skills and career advancement. This 30-33 credit program requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.00+ GPA, personal statement, and professional recommendations, but no entrance exam is mentioned. It focuses on advanced teaching strategies without leading to state licensure, offering rolling admissions for flexibility.
- Fully online master's program
- 30-33 total credit hours
- No state licensure offered
- 3.00+ GPA requirement
- Rolling admissions
- Professional recommendations needed
- Personal statement required
- Designed for licensed teachers
Master's - MSE in Curriculum & Instruction (Exceptional and Diverse Learners)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Fort Hays State University offers an online MSE in Curriculum & Instruction concentrating on Exceptional and Diverse Learners, tailored for licensed teachers aiming to support students with unique needs. The 30-33 credit program mandates a 3.0+ GPA and professional recommendations, with no entrance exam specified. It emphasizes advanced instructional techniques and does not provide state licensure, featuring rolling admissions for convenience.
- Fully online master's program
- 30-33 total credit hours
- 3.0+ GPA requirement
- Rolling admissions
- No state licensure
- Professional recommendation needed
- Designed for licensed teachers
Master's - MSE in Curriculum & Instruction (The Science of Language and Literacy)
Online Learning - Visit Website
The online MSE in Curriculum & Instruction at Fort Hays State University, with a concentration in The Science of Language and Literacy, equips educators with expertise in reading development and instructional strategies. This 30-credit program includes advanced literacy techniques, research, and technology integration, requiring no entrance exam. It is designed for professional growth without licensure, focusing on data analysis and diverse educational applications.
- 30 total credit hours
- Online graduate program
- Advanced reading science focus
- No teaching licensure
- Innovative technology integration
- Research and data analysis
- Cultural diversity courses
- Instructional design emphasis
- Flexible course options
- Advanced literacy strategies
Master's - MSE in Curriculum & Instruction (STEM Education)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Fort Hays State University's MSE in Curriculum & Instruction with a STEM Education concentration enhances K-12 teachers' skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The 33-credit online program offers electives and Praxis preparation, with no entrance exam mentioned. It does not lead to licensure but supports roles like STEM coordinators, emphasizing research, technology, and cultural diversity in instruction.
- 33 total credit hours
- Online graduate program
- No teaching licensure
- STEM content electives available
- Praxis preparation courses
- For K-12 teachers
- Research and technology focus
- Cultural diversity coursework
- Instructional design emphasis
Master's - Master of Science in Education (MSE) with an Emphasis in Elementary Education
Online Learning - Visit Website
Fort Hays State University's online MSE in Elementary Education prepares aspiring K-6 teachers for licensure through tracks like Transition to Teaching or Traditional Certification. It requires a 2.75 undergraduate GPA, practicum hours, and background checks, but no entrance exam is specified. The curriculum covers literacy, math, and classroom management, with internship experiences for comprehensive training.
- Online Master's in Elementary Education
- Kansas State Department Approved
- Two Program Tracks Available
- PreK-6 Licensure Preparation
- Minimum 2.75 Undergraduate GPA
- Requires Practicum Hours
- Background Check Required
- Professional Liability Insurance Needed
Master's - Master of Science in Special Education – Gifted
Online Learning - Visit Website
- Fully online graduate program
- 15-36 graduate credit hours
- Two pathway options
- Flexible course scheduling
- Kansas endorsement eligible
- Covers gifted education strategies
- Research and technology focused
Pittsburg State University
Pittsburg, KS - Public 4-Year - pittstate.edu
Master's - Educational Leadership
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Pittsburg State University's Master's in Educational Leadership is a hybrid program preparing licensed teachers and non-licensed leaders for roles in education. It meets Kansas State Department of Education and CAEP standards, covering leadership principles, policy, and administrative practices. Flexible online learning suits working professionals, requiring a 3.00 GPA and leadership potential. No entrance exam is mentioned for this master's level program.
- Online and hybrid learning options
- Meets building principal PreK-12 endorsement
- Accredited by CAEP
- Diverse pathways for professionals
- Hands-on practicum experience
- Two research emphasis options
- Designed for various undergraduate backgrounds
- Preparation for leadership roles
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching Special Education (High-Incidence Grades K-6)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Pittsburg State University's online Master of Arts in Teaching Special Education focuses on high-incidence special education for grades K-6. Designed for paraeducators with non-teaching bachelor's degrees and one year of experience, it provides training in literacy, behavior management, and individualized education. The program leads to licensure and emphasizes practical experience, with no entrance exam specified for this master's level offering.
- Online Master's degree program
- Alternative licensure for paraeducators
- High Incidence Special Education focus
- K-6 grade certification
- 3.00 GPA requirement
- One year para-educator experience needed
- Hands-on practicum experiences
- Expert faculty instruction
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching Special Education (High-Incidence Grades 6-12)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Pittsburg State University's online Master of Arts in Teaching Special Education concentrates on high-incidence special education for grades 6-12. This two-year, 36-credit program is for paraeducators with non-education bachelor's degrees, requiring a 3.0 GPA and one year of experience. It allows for a limited apprentice license and online coursework, with no entrance exam mentioned for the master's level.
- Online 36-credit master's program
- Two-year cohort-based format
- Requires bachelor's degree
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- One year paraeducator experience required
- Limited apprentice license option
- High-incidence special education focus
- Grades 6-12 concentration
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Secondary)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Pittsburg State University's online Master of Arts in Teaching (Secondary) is an alternative licensure program for non-teaching bachelor's degree holders, preparing educators for 6-12 or PreK-12 classrooms. It covers instructional strategies, classroom management, and diversity, with a 3.00 GPA requirement and Praxis subject assessment needed. No general entrance exam is required for this master's level program.
- Online alternative licensure program
- Designed for non-teaching bachelor's degree holders
- 3.00 minimum GPA requirement
- Praxis subject assessment required
- Hands-on classroom experiences
- Expert faculty mentorship
- Covers 6-12 or PreK-12 settings
- Includes professional disposition assessment
- Background check required
- Two recommendation letters needed
Friends University
Wichita, KS - Private 4-year - friends.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Friends University's Master of Arts in Teaching is a 30-credit, 18-month hybrid program for licensed educators with at least one year of experience and a minimum 3.0 GPA. It focuses on advanced pedagogical skills, educational technology, and leadership, offering flexible formats and personalized research. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program, as it emphasizes professional development in diverse learning environments.
- 30-credit graduate program
- 18-month completion timeline
- Multiple course delivery formats
- Requires teaching license
- Personalized research focus
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- One year teaching experience
- Diverse learning perspectives
- Educational leadership emphasis
- Technology integration courses
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Education in Special Education at Friends University provides advanced instructional strategies through a hybrid format, accredited by CAEP and Kansas State. It includes special education licensure, eight-week sessions, and real-world experience, with concentrations like dyslexia and literacy. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program, designed for career growth and salary increases.
- Hybrid online/campus learning
- CAEP and Kansas State accredited
- Special Education licensure track
- Eight-week course sessions
- Real-world teaching experience
- Individualized research studies
- Small class sizes
- Professional networking opportunities
- Dyslexia and Literacy concentration
- Career services support
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education (Dyslexia and Literacy Interventionist)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Focusing on Dyslexia and Literacy Interventionist, this Master of Education in Special Education at Friends University uses a hybrid approach to teach structured literacy techniques for students with reading difficulties. Accredited by CAEP, it requires a teaching license and offers practical strategies and networking. No entrance exam is required for this master's level concentration.
- Hybrid learning format.
- Focus on dyslexia and literacy.
- Accredited by CAEP.
- Requires teaching license.
- Practical teaching strategies.
- Interactive classroom environments.
- Networking with education professionals.
- Access to academic resources.
- Structured literacy techniques.
- Prepares for special education settings.
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education (General Education)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Friends University's Master of Education in Special Education with a General Education concentration prepares educators for high-incidence disabilities through a hybrid program. It includes curriculum adaptation, Kansas licensure, and CAEP accreditation, with eight-week online sessions and individualized research. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.
- Hybrid learning format
- Kansas state licensure track
- CAEP accredited program
- Individualized research study
- Work with high-incidence disabilities
- Online eight-week sessions
- Experienced faculty support
- Curriculum adaptation skills
Southwestern College
Winfield, KS - Private 4-year - sckans.edu
Master's - Master of Education in School Leadership
Online Learning - Visit Website
Southwestern College's Master of Education in School Leadership is an online program for educators aiming to advance into administrative roles. It builds on a strong theoretical foundation aligned with national teaching standards, offering flexibility for working professionals. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program, making it accessible for licensed teachers seeking to enhance their leadership skills in educational settings.
- Online Master's degree program
- Focuses on school leadership
- Aligned with teaching standards
- Designed for practicing educators
- Flexible learning environment
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education (Low-Incidence)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Southwestern College's Master of Education in Special Education with a Low-Incidence concentration focuses on supporting students with complex disabilities like autism and intellectual challenges. This 36-credit online program requires a Praxis II assessment for Kansas state endorsement and is designed for licensed teachers with a minimum 3.0 GPA. It includes practicum options and prepares educators for advanced roles in special education without needing an additional entrance exam.
- Online flexible master's degree
- Covers low-incidence disabilities
- 36 credit hour program
- Kansas state endorsement
- Five annual start dates
- Expert practicing faculty
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Praxis II assessment needed
- Licensed teacher prerequisite
- Practicum options available
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education
Online Learning - Visit Website
Southwestern College's Master of Education in Special Education offers a comprehensive online curriculum for licensed teachers, covering behavioral assessment and communication strategies for students with disabilities. The 36-credit program does not require an entrance exam and provides flexibility with five annual start dates. It emphasizes professional development and is eligible for Kansas state endorsement, focusing on practical skills for special education educators.
- Fully online master's program
- 36 credit hour curriculum
- Five annual start dates
- Kansas state endorsement eligible
- Expert practicing educators teach
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- 12-week course sessions
- Practicum options available
- Professional development focused
- Specialized disability concentration
University of Saint Mary
Leavenworth, KS - Private 4-year - stmary.edu
Master's - Master's in Elementary Education
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Saint Mary's Master's in Elementary Education is a 37-credit hybrid program accredited by KSDE and CAEP, designed for Kansas initial teaching licensure. It can be completed in 18-24 months with flexible remote or in-person classes at $410 per credit. The curriculum covers curriculum design, instructional technology, and diverse teaching strategies, including practicum and a 13-week student teaching experience. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.
- Fully accredited by KSDE and CAEP
- 37 credits, 18-24 months
- Remote or in-person classes
- $410 per credit hour
- Kansas initial teacher licensure
- Flexible eight-week accelerated courses
- Two courses per term
- Semester-long school placements
- 13-week full-time student teaching
- Unified PK-6 elementary and special education option
Master's - Master of Arts in Secondary Education
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Saint Mary's Master of Arts in Secondary Education is a 30-credit hybrid program accredited by KSDE and CAEP, leading to Kansas teaching licensure in 18-24 months. Priced at $410 per credit, it requires a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA, Praxis II content exam, and includes 15-week student teaching. No other entrance exams are specified for this master's level program.
- Fully accredited by KSDE and CAEP
- 30 credits, 18-24 months
- Hybrid learning format
- $410 per credit hour
- Leads to Kansas teaching licensure
- Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA
- Praxis II content exam required
- Eight-week accelerated courses
- Two courses per term
- 15-week student teaching experience
Master's - Master's in Elementary Education (Unified Program (Elementary and Special Education))
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Saint Mary's Master's in Elementary Education with a concentration in Unified Program (Elementary and Special Education) is a 37-credit hybrid offering accredited by KSDE and CAEP. Completed in 18-24 months at $410 per credit, it combines elementary and special education certification with remote or in-person options, accelerated courses, and a 13-week student teaching component. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.
- 37 credits, 18-24 months
- Remote and in-person options
- Unified Elementary/Special Education
- CAEP and KSDE accredited
- $410 per credit hour
- Initial Kansas teaching licensure
- Eight-week accelerated courses
- Two courses per term
- Semester-long school placements
- 13-week student teaching experience
Ottawa University-Ottawa
Ottawa, KS - Private 4-year - ottawa.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Education (Curriculum and Instruction)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Ottawa University's online Master of Arts in Education with a Curriculum and Instruction concentration focuses on developing advanced instructional strategies, data-driven teaching techniques, and leadership skills. This 30-credit hour program is designed for working professionals, offering flexible online learning with small class sizes and expert instructors. It emphasizes curriculum development, differentiated instruction, and educational research, preparing graduates for roles like curriculum coordinators and instructional specialists. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.
- 30 total credit hours
- Fully online program
- Focuses on data-driven instruction
- 15 concentration credit hours
- Prepares for leadership roles
- Small online class sizes
- Expert field instructors
- Flexible learning schedule
- Research project required
- Higher Learning Commission accredited
Master's - Master of Arts in Education-Special Education (Mild/Mod) (Mild/Moderate Disabilities)
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Master of Arts in Education with a Special Education (Mild/Moderate Disabilities) concentration at Ottawa University prepares educators to support students with diverse learning needs through online coursework. It covers special education law, behavior management, and inclusive teaching practices, including a specialized practicum. This program meets teacher certification requirements and focuses on evidence-based strategies for mild to moderate disabilities. No entrance exam is required for this master's level degree.
- Online master's degree program
- Special education certification
- Focuses on mild/moderate disabilities
- Evidence-based instructional strategies
- Comprehensive special education curriculum
- Prepares for advanced education roles
- Includes specialized practicum experience
Master's - Master of Arts in Education (Secondary Education)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Ottawa University's campus-based Master of Arts in Education with a Secondary Education concentration enhances pedagogical skills for middle and high school teaching, focusing on innovative methodologies, classroom management, and technology integration. It aligns with Kansas state licensure and Interstate Teacher Assessment standards, incorporating clinical teaching experiences and culturally responsive instruction. This program develops leadership and research-based expertise. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.
- Secondary Education concentration
- Kansas state licensure preparation
- Advanced teaching methodologies
- Diverse classroom management skills
- Technology integration focus
- Leadership development courses
- Clinical teaching experiences
- Research-based curriculum
- Culturally responsive instruction
- Emerging learning technologies
Master's - Master of Arts in Education (Gifted Education)
Online Learning - Visit Website
The online Master of Arts in Education with a Gifted Education concentration at Ottawa University equips educators to support exceptional students, meeting Kansas gifted education standards. It includes specialized coursework in curriculum design, assessment, and instructional strategies for gifted learners, with a required practicum. This program prepares for professional certification and emphasizes data-driven leadership. No entrance exam is required for this master's level degree.
- Online graduate education program
- Kansas gifted education standards
- Professional certification preparation
- Specialized gifted education focus
- Practicum field experience required
- Data-driven leadership training
- Research and assessment skills
- Diverse learner instructional strategies
Wichita State University
Wichita, KS - Public 4-Year - wichita.edu
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education-Early Childhood Unified (Early Childhood Unified)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Wichita State University's online Master of Education in Special Education-Early Childhood Unified is a 30-hour program preparing certified K-6 teachers for roles with students from birth to third grade. It focuses on inclusive teaching, family collaboration, and research-based practices, requiring a bachelor's degree, teaching license, and 3.0 GPA. No entrance exam is specified for this master's program. Graduates gain expertise through internships and can earn a provisional endorsement.
- 30-hour online program
- Birth-3rd grade focus
- Elementary teaching license required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Multiple internship experiences
- Research-based curriculum
- Family collaboration emphasis
- Provisional endorsement option
- Teaching license preparation
Master's - Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Wichita State University's hybrid Master of Education in Educational Leadership is a two-year, 30-credit program designed for experienced teachers transitioning to PK-12 administration. It includes practicum experiences, preparation for the PRAXIS licensure exam, and emphasizes school law and curriculum theory. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA and three years of teaching experience. No entrance exam is mentioned for this master's program.
- 30-credit graduate program
- Two-year hybrid format
- PRAXIS licensure preparation
- Supervised leadership practicum
- 3.00 GPA admission requirement
- Minimum 3 years teaching experience
- Professional mentor required
- Monday evening class sessions
- Leadership skill development
- Focused on PK-12 administration
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education (Gifted)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Wichita State University's campus-based Master of Education in Special Education with a concentration in Gifted equips educators to support gifted learners through evening courses and internships. It blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills, focusing on adaptive learning and research-based methods. Ideal for working adults, it requires no specified entrance exam for this master's program and enhances career advancement in special education.
- Evening courses available.
- Includes internships.
- Focus on gifted learners.
- Theoretical and practical skills.
- Supports working adults.
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS - Public 4-Year - ku.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Education in Educational Administration (Building Leadership)
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Kansas offers an online Master of Science in Education in Educational Administration with a Building Leadership concentration, tailored for working educators seeking to enhance their leadership skills. This 36-credit program focuses on pedagogical expertise, educational policy, and administrative competencies, preparing graduates for building-level leadership roles. It aligns with national standards and includes a field-based practicum, with no entrance exam required for admission.
- Online 36-credit master's program
- Designed for working educators
- Kansas state licensure preparation
- Two program track options
- Field-based practicum included
- Digital portfolio requirement
- Taught by expert faculty
- Completed within two years
- Flexible licensure/non-licensure tracks
Master's - Master of Science in Education in Higher Education Administration
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Kansas provides a campus-based Master of Science in Education in Higher Education Administration, a two-year, 36-credit program for aspiring higher education professionals. It emphasizes educational leadership, student development, and administrative practices, with hands-on experience through graduate assistantships. No entrance exam is required for admission, and the program offers tuition waivers and diverse opportunities for practical learning.
- 36 total credit hours
- Two-year program completion
- Graduate assistantship required
- Tuition waiver available
- Courses after 4:30 pm
- Diverse assistantship opportunities
- Internship options
- Learn higher education leadership
Master's - Master of Science in Education in Educational Administration (Non-Licensure)
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Kansas features an online Master of Science in Education in Educational Administration with a Non-Licensure concentration, designed for educators pursuing leadership roles without licensure. This 36-credit program covers pedagogical strategies, educational policy, and leadership skills, and can be completed in two years. It includes expert-led coursework and a digital portfolio, with no entrance exam required for admission.
- Online Master's degree format
- 36 credit hours total
- Two concentration tracks
- Designed for working educators
- Meets Kansas state licensure requirements
- National leadership standards aligned
- Comprehensive internship/exam options
- Expert faculty instruction
- Progressive coursework sequence
- Digital portfolio requirement
Newman University
Wichita, KS - Private 4-year - newmanu.edu
Master's - MSED - Building Leadership
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Newman University's MSED in Building Leadership is a hybrid 30-credit hour program for licensed educators aiming to become school administrators. It focuses on curriculum development, educational law, and school improvement, including a 150-hour leadership practicum and preparation for the SLLA exam. As a master's level program, it does not explicitly state if an entrance exam is required, so this is not mentioned.
- 10 course graduate degree
- 30 credit hour program
- PreK-12 Leadership License
- 150-hour leadership practicum
- KSDE Program Standards aligned
- School Leadership Licensure Assessment prep
- Hybrid program format
- Learn practical leadership skills
- Research-based curriculum approach
Master's - MSED - School Improvement and Teacher Leadership
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Newman University's MSED in School Improvement and Teacher Leadership is a 33-credit hybrid program designed for educators to lead change through collaborative strategies, data analytics, and curriculum development. It can be completed in under two years with a mix of face-to-face and online learning. As a master's level program, it does not explicitly state if an entrance exam is required, so this is not mentioned.
- 11 course graduate program
- 33 total credit hours
- Hybrid flexible delivery model
- Less than two years completion
- Collaborative learning approach
- Advanced leadership skills
- Innovative course methods
- Focus on school improvement
- Data analytics integration
Benedictine College
Atchison, KS - Private 4-year - benedictine.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Elementary)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Benedictine College's Master of Arts in Teaching with an Elementary concentration is a hybrid program designed for career changers holding non-education undergraduate degrees. It prepares students for PreK-6 teaching licensure in Kansas through comprehensive pedagogical training, blending online and on-campus learning for flexibility. No entrance exam is required for admission.
- PreK-6 Elementary Teaching License
- For Non-Education Degree Holders
- Hybrid Program Format
- Kansas State Certification
- Comprehensive Pedagogical Training
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Secondary)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Arts in Teaching with a Secondary concentration at Benedictine College is a hybrid program tailored for individuals with undergraduate degrees in various disciplines seeking Kansas teaching licensure. It emphasizes practical teaching skills and educational theory, offering a flexible format that combines online and on-campus components. No entrance exam is required for admission.
- Hybrid learning format.
- Prepares for Kansas teaching license.
- Secondary concentration available.
- Requires undergraduate degree.
- Focuses on practical teaching skills.
- Blends online and on-campus learning.
- Ideal for non-Education degree holders.
- Caters to various disciplines.
- Enhances educational theory knowledge.
- Flexible for working professionals.

Learn more about our methodology
Fastest M.Ed. Programs in Kansas
Kansas universities offer several quick, short, accelerated tracks that compress coursework into 12–18 months through intensive summer terms and eight‑week sessions.
| School | Specialty | Program Length | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Hays State University | Educational Leadership | 12 months | Fully online |
| University of Kansas | Curriculum & Teaching | 12–14 months | Hybrid |
| Wichita State University | Learning & Instructional Design | 12 months | Fully online |
| Emporia State University | Educational Administration | 14 months | Online & campus |
| Kansas State University | Special Education | 12–15 months | Fully online |
| Pittsburg State University | Reading Specialist | 12–16 months | Fully online |
Explore more accelerated M.Ed. Programs
Cheapest M.Ed. Programs in Kansas
These affordable, low‑cost, budget‑friendly programs keep tuition under $430 per credit while maintaining CAEP quality standards.
| School | Specialty | Tuition Range* | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Hays State University | Educational Leadership | $329/credit | Fully online |
| Pittsburg State University | Reading Specialist | $350/credit | Fully online |
| Emporia State University | Educational Administration | $375/credit | Online & campus |
| Wichita State University | Learning & Instructional Design | $395/credit | Fully online |
| Kansas State University | Special Education | $415/credit | Fully online |
| University of Kansas | Curriculum & Teaching | $425/credit | Hybrid |
*Rates reflect 2024–25 in‑state or fully online tuition; fees vary. Explore more affordable programs.
What Master’s in Education Degrees Lead to Kansas Teacher Licensure?
Kansas offers Restricted License M.Ed. pathways that embed student teaching and Praxis exams so graduates earn both their degree and an Initial Professional License.
| Pathway | Certification Tier | Key Requirements | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restricted M.Ed. | Initial Professional | Bachelor’s GPA ≥ 2.75; Praxis content exam; fingerprinting | 36–42 credits; online + internship |
| Traditional M.Ed. | Professional License Upgrade | Valid Kansas license; 3.0 GPA; portfolio or edTPA | 30–33 credits; hybrid |
| Specialist Endorsement | Reading / Gifted / ESL | Completed M.Ed.; Praxis endorsement test | 15–18 credits; fully online |
For full checklists and reciprocity details, visit our teaching‑licensure guide.
Are Online M.Ed. Programs Available in Kansas?
Most Kansas institutions now deliver fully online M.Ed. concentrations with multiple start dates. Online study eliminates commuting and offers flexible pacing, though some courses require virtual proctoring or technology fees. When a desired specialty isn’t offered in‑state, consider a reputable national online program. Learn more on our online M.Ed. programs page.
Pros of Online Study
- Flexible scheduling for working educators
- In‑state tuition extended to online learners
- Access to niche endorsements
Potential Drawbacks
- Fewer face‑to‑face networking events
- Requires strong time‑management skills
- Possible tech fees ($50–$150 per term)
Admissions Requirements for M.Ed. Programs in Kansas
Applicants typically submit:
- Bachelor’s degree (GPA 2.75–3.0)
- Official transcripts
- GRE/MAT scores or waiver
- Professional résumé
- Two to three recommendation letters
- Personal statement of goals
- Background check for licensure tracks
Popular M.Ed. Specialties in Kansas
- Curriculum & Instruction
- Special Education
- Educational Leadership
- Reading Specialist
- Learning & Instructional Design
- ESL / Bilingual
Top Employers & Districts Hiring M.Ed. Graduates
- Wichita Public Schools (USD 259) – largest district, STEM expansion
- Shawnee Mission School District – suburban KC leadership roles
- Blue Valley Schools – tech‑integration specialist positions
- Kansas Department of Education – curriculum & assessment
- Teach For America – Kansas City – high‑need placements
- Spirit AeroSystems & Textron Aviation – corporate training & development
- University of Kansas – instructional design & advising
For salary data and negotiation tips, visit our M.Ed. Salary Guide.
Your Next Step Toward a Master’s in Education in Kansas
Kansas’s accredited M.Ed. programs blend accelerated timelines, affordable tuition, and streamlined licensure so you can advance your career without leaving the Sunflower State. Invest in your professional growth, elevate student outcomes, and join a network of educators driving innovation across Kansas classrooms. Tap the button below to compare programs and request information today.
Sources
- Kansas State Department of Education – teacher vacancy data & licensure requirements
- University of Kansas – graduate tuition and program details
- Kansas State University – online special education tuition
- Fort Hays State University – virtual college tuition schedule
- Wichita State University – online learning fees
- Emporia State University – M.S. in Educational Administration overview
- Washburn University – M.Ed. program curriculum
Stay informed with expert insights on Master’s in Education programs, career development, and leadership opportunities. Whether you’re evaluating schools, preparing for admissions, or exploring career paths after graduation, our carefully selected articles offer valuable guidance to help you make informed decisions and maximize your Master’s in Education investment.
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