Best Master’s in Education Degree Programs in Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s proud tradition of public schooling—stretching from the one‑room schoolhouses of the Northwoods to Milwaukee’s urban innovation zones—continues to shape the state’s 825,000 K‑12 learners. Yet districts across the Badger State face staffing gaps, particularly in educational technology, special education, and bilingual classrooms. The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) counted more than 3,200 vacancies heading into the 2024‑25 school year, urging superintendents to hire master‑prepared educators who can serve as district administrators and curriculum innovators.

Whether you’re a teacher working under a Tier I license, a professional pivoting to become an instructional coordinator, or a veteran aiming for principal licensure, earning a Master’s in Education (M.Ed.) in Wisconsin can unlock the Tier III Lifetime License, boost your salary under local pay matrices, and pave pathways into leadership roles. Universities from Superior to Kenosha deliver graduate coursework in online, hybrid, weekend, and evening formats—so educators in Eau Claire, Green Bay, or the Driftless Region can advance without relocating.

Below you’ll discover Wisconsin’s leading M.Ed. programs, with insights on accelerated tracks, affordable tuition, licensure routes, online study, and the employers most eager to hire master‑prepared educators.

All programs listed are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and their educator‑prep units are DPI‑approved and CAEP‑accredited, ensuring research‑based coursework aligned with Wisconsin licensure standards.

2026 Best Master's in Education Degree Programs in Wisconsin

Are you looking for the best master's in education degree programs in Wisconsin? Mastersineducation.org has done the hard work for you by ranking top schools based on key factors like affordability, accreditation, and student outcomes. Our rankings help you find a program that fits your needs and career goals. We provide clear, reliable information to guide your decision. Learn more about how we create these rankings at https://mastersineducation.org/rankings-methodology/.
#1

University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

Whitewater, WI - Public 4-Year - uww.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Education in Early Childhood Education Policy (Policy)

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Wisconsin-Whitewater's Master of Science in Education in Early Childhood Education Policy offers a groundbreaking 30-credit online program strategically designed for aspiring policy leaders. Students dive deep into interdisciplinary approaches, mastering legislative strategies and systemic support mechanisms for children and families. The program uniquely prepares professionals to drive meaningful change through policy advocacy, enabling flexible learning with asynchronous course delivery. Requiring a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA, the curriculum cultivates advanced skills for transformative roles in educational policy research and strategic development.

  • 30-credit fully online program
  • Start spring, summer, fall terms
  • Finish in three semesters
  • Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA
  • $595 per credit tuition
  • Asynchronous course delivery
  • No campus attendance required
  • Part-time study option
  • Personal statement required
  • Career paths in policy, research

Master's - Master of Science in Education in Higher Education Leadership

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

UW-Whitewater's Master of Science in Education in Higher Education Leadership provides a comprehensive 30-credit hybrid program tailored for emerging educational administrators. This innovative curriculum emphasizes scholar-practitioner methodologies, equipping students with critical leadership competencies for diverse higher education roles. Designed with flexibility for full and part-time students, the program enables rapid three-semester completion. Graduates develop sophisticated skills in student affairs, academic support, and administrative leadership, positioning themselves strategically within evolving educational ecosystems.

  • 30-credit graduate program
  • Flexible full/part-time options
  • Scholar-practitioner approach
  • Affordable resident tuition
  • Career-focused curriculum
  • Three-semester completion potential
  • Athletic administration emphasis available

Master's - Master of Science in Education in Special Education (Adaptive Education to Cross Categorical)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater's Master of Science in Education in Special Education with Adaptive Education to Cross Categorical concentration delivers a robust 36-credit online program. Meticulously crafted for educators seeking advanced credentials, the curriculum meets Wisconsin DPI licensure requirements while providing comprehensive training in supporting diverse learning needs. Doctoral-level instructors guide students through adaptive educational strategies, enabling professionals to develop sophisticated intervention techniques across categorical special education frameworks.

  • 36-credit online master's program
  • Flexible start terms: spring/summer/fall
  • Meets Wisconsin DPI code 5008
  • Doctoral-level instructors
  • Resident tuition $635.74 per credit
  • Can finish in three semesters
  • No campus attendance required

Master's - Master of Science in Education in Higher Education Leadership (Athletic Administration)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

UW-Whitewater's Master of Science in Education in Higher Education Leadership featuring an Athletic Administration concentration offers a dynamic 30-credit hybrid program. Designed for sports management professionals, the curriculum cultivates advanced leadership skills specifically tailored to athletic department management. Students engage in cohort-based learning, developing strategic capabilities to support student-athletes and drive institutional athletic success. The program provides flexible enrollment options and values professional experience, preparing graduates for transformative roles in collegiate sports administration.

  • 30-credit master's program
  • Cohort-based learning model
  • Full/part-time enrollment options
  • Resident tuition $585.74/credit
  • Athletic administration focus
  • Flexible graduate admission paths
  • Professional experience valued
  • Personal statement required
  • Multiple reference requirements

Master's - Master of Science in Education in Special Education (Applied Behavior Analysis)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Master of Science in Education in Special Education with Applied Behavior Analysis concentration at UW-Whitewater provides a comprehensive 36-credit online program. Verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International, this curriculum prepares professionals to design sophisticated behavioral interventions for individuals with disabilities. Students develop specialized skills in creating targeted strategies, with doctoral-level instruction and flexible term starts. The program offers a robust pathway to professional certification in advanced behavioral analysis techniques.

  • Fully online 36-credit program
  • Doctoral-level instructors
  • ABAI course verification
  • Flexible term start dates
  • Competitive resident tuition
  • Professional ABA intervention focus
  • Meets Wisconsin DPI requirements

Master's - Master of Science in Education in Special Education (Cross Categorical Licensure)

Online Learning - Visit Website

  • 36-credit fully online program
  • Multiple special education emphases
  • Three-semester completion possible
  • Wisconsin DPI licensure compliant
  • Doctoral-level instructors
  • Competitive resident tuition $635.74/credit
  • Designed for working professionals
  • 98% graduate employment rate

Master's - Master of Science in Education in Special Education (Evidence Based Practice)

Online Learning - Visit Website

  • 36-credit online program
  • Flexible start terms
  • Multiple semester completion options
  • Wisconsin DPI code 5008 compliant
  • Doctoral-level instructors
  • 98% graduate employment rate
  • Fully online, no campus visits
  • Designed for licensed teachers
  • Evidence-based practice focus
Show 6 More Programs ˅
#2

University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

La Crosse, WI - Public 4-Year - uwlax.edu

Master's - MSED Professional Development: Educational Leadership Emphasis

Online Learning - Visit Website

The MSED Professional Development: Educational Leadership Emphasis at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is a 42-credit master's program designed for experienced K-12 educators aiming to become principals or directors of instruction. It emphasizes culturally relevant teaching, utilizes a collaborative cohort model, and meets National Educational Leadership Preparation standards for Wisconsin licensure. Admission requires a bachelor's degree in education, a 2.85 GPA, a teaching license, and at least one year of teaching experience. Offered in flexible online, blended, and face-to-face formats, it prepares professionals for advanced leadership roles. No entrance exam is required.

  • 42-credit graduate program
  • Online, blended, face-to-face formats
  • Meets Wisconsin licensure standards
  • Cohort-based learning model
  • Focuses on educational leadership
  • Requires 2.85 undergraduate GPA
  • Teaching experience mandatory
  • Culturally relevant curriculum
  • Principal and instruction certification

Master's - MSED Educational Leadership Emphasis

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Wisconsin-La Crosse's MSED Educational Leadership Emphasis is a 36-38 credit online master's program tailored for educators, counselors, psychologists, and social workers seeking roles like department chair or curriculum coach. Focusing on Wisconsin Administrative Standards, it covers leadership, data-based decision-making, supervision, and school law, and can be completed in 18-21 months. Admission necessitates a bachelor's degree and a teaching license, with tuition at $396 per credit. No entrance exam is required for this program.

  • 36-38 credit program.
  • Online format available.
  • Completion in 18-21 months.
  • Focuses on Wisconsin Administrative Standards.
  • For teachers, counselors, psychologists, social workers.
  • Prepares for roles like department chair.
  • Courses on leadership, data, supervision, law.
  • Requires bachelor's degree and teaching license.
  • Cost: $396 per credit.
  • Includes practicum in principalship.

Master's - MSED Educational Leadership/Director of Instruction Emphasis (Director of Instruction)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The MSED Educational Leadership/Director of Instruction Emphasis at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is a 42-48 credit online cohort program for PK-12 professionals, offering dual licensure as Principal and Director of Instruction. It emphasizes culturally responsive leadership and data-driven practices, meeting state standards, and includes practicum experiences. Scholarships are available for students with a 3.5 undergraduate GPA, reducing tuition to $396 per credit. No entrance exam is required for this master's-level program.

  • Online cohort-based program
  • Dual licensure Principal/Director
  • 42-48 total credit hours
  • Scholarships available
  • Culturally responsive leadership focus
  • Practicum experiences included
  • Meets state administrator standards
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh

Oshkosh, WI - Public 4-Year - uwosh.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Education (M.S.E.) in Special Education (Cross-categorical Special Education)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh's hybrid Master of Science in Education with a Cross-categorical Special Education concentration equips educators to support students with diverse disabilities through inclusive, evidence-based methods. It fosters skills in collaboration, advocacy, and reflective practice, preparing graduates for leadership roles without requiring an entrance exam. This program emphasizes diversity and innovative school partnerships, making it ideal for lifelong learners committed to enhancing special education.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Focus on Cross-categorical Special Education
  • Prepares educators for leadership roles
  • Emphasizes diversity and inclusion
  • Evidence-based teaching practices
  • Collaborative learning environment
  • Designed for lifelong learners
  • Innovative partnerships with schools
  • Supports full participation of individuals with disabilities
  • Reflective practitioner approach

Master's - Master of Science in Education (M.S.E.) in Special Education (Early Childhood Special Education)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Focusing on Early Childhood Special Education, this hybrid MSE program at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh develops educators to work inclusively with young children with disabilities, using evidence-based strategies and collaborative approaches. It builds advanced advocacy and problem-solving skills, positioning graduates as innovative professionals. No entrance exam is required, and the program supports military-friendly admissions, emphasizing inclusive education practices.

  • Hybrid program delivery
  • Focuses on inclusive education
  • Evidence-based learning strategies
  • Professional collaboration skills
  • Advocacy for students with disabilities

Master's - Master of Science in Education (M.S.E.) in Special Education (Director of Special Education and Pupil Services)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Director of Special Education and Pupil Services concentration in this hybrid MSE program prepares professionals for leadership roles, emphasizing evidence-based decision-making, inclusive practices, and collaborative skills. It leads to licensure and focuses on transformative advocacy for students with disabilities, without an entrance exam requirement. Designed for working educators, it offers flexibility to drive meaningful change in educational settings.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Leadership in special education
  • Inclusive education focus
  • Evidence-based decision making
  • Professional collaboration skills
  • Director of Special Education Licensure
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4

Viterbo University

La Crosse, WI - Private 4-year - viterbo.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Viterbo University's Master of Arts in Teaching offers an accelerated hybrid program for bachelor's degree holders seeking initial teacher licensure, with online coursework and in-person teaching experiences. It includes tracks in secondary education, cross-categorical special education, and elementary education, emphasizing reflective, skills-driven educators. A 3.0 GPA and content coursework with 'B' or better grades are required, along with practicums and portfolio presentations. No entrance exam is specified for this master's level program.

  • Online post-baccalaureate program
  • Multiple licensure track options
  • Rolling admission semesters
  • In-person teaching experiences
  • Franciscan values-based curriculum
  • Requires bachelor's degree
  • 3.0 GPA typically required
  • Graduate student loan eligible

Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching - Secondary Education

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Master of Arts in Teaching - Secondary Education at Viterbo University is a fully online program designed for working professionals, focusing on servant leadership, social justice, and instructional innovation. It requires a minimum of 30 credit hours with options for emphases like educational leadership or special education, and includes a final on-campus seminar. An existing teaching license is required, and no entrance exam is mentioned for this master's level program.

  • Fully online program
  • Minimum 30 credit hours
  • Multiple emphasis options
  • Servant leadership focused
  • Flexible course selection
  • Final on-campus seminar
  • Requires existing teaching license
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

Marian University

Fond Du Lac, WI - Private 4-year - marianuniversity.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Education (MAE) - Educational Leadership

Online Learning - Visit Website

Marian University's online Master of Arts in Education in Educational Leadership is a 32-credit program designed to prepare professionals for PK-12 administrative roles, leading to Wisconsin licensure. It emphasizes practical experience through a guided practicum and an electronic portfolio, aligned with national standards. As a master's level program, it may require an entrance exam such as the GRE, but this should be confirmed with the university. The program is military-friendly and offered by a Roman Catholic institution.

  • 32-credit online program
  • Wisconsin administrative licensure
  • PK-12 leadership focus
  • Electronic portfolio required
  • Practicum experience included
  • Aligned with national standards
  • Develops leadership competencies
  • Multiple administrative roles
  • Comprehensive curriculum

Master's - Master of Arts in Education – Teacher Education

Online Learning - Visit Website

Marian University's online Master of Arts in Education – Teacher Education program prepares students for K-9 teaching licensure in Wisconsin, featuring flexible pacing with six annual start dates. It includes 100 hours of field experience and a full semester of student teaching, focusing on pedagogical skills and classroom management. As a master's level program, it may require an entrance exam like the GRE; check with the university for specifics. It is military-friendly and part of a Roman Catholic university.

  • Online Master's with Wisconsin License
  • 6 Convenient Start Dates
  • 100 Hours Field Experience
  • K-9 Teaching Licensure
  • Self-Paced Flexible Program
  • One Semester Student Teaching
  • Comprehensive Pedagogical Training
  • Minimum 2.75 GPA Requirement
  • Dynamic Learning Platform MPath
  • Personalized Faculty Support

Master's - Master of Arts in Educational Technology

Online Learning - Visit Website

Marian University's Master of Arts in Educational Technology is a 100% online, asynchronous program with 30 credits, aimed at enhancing teaching through technology integration. It offers certificates in technology coaching and online teaching, developing skills in digital learning and leadership. As a master's level program, an entrance exam such as the GRE might be required; verify with the university. The program is CAEP-accredited, military-friendly, and offered by a Roman Catholic institution.

  • 100% online asynchronous program
  • 30 total graduate credits
  • Technology Integration Coaching Certificate
  • CAEP Accredited Program
  • Professional teaching standards alignment
  • Electronic portfolio development
  • Mobile and online learning focus
  • Grant proposal development skills
  • Leadership in technology integration
  • Online Teaching Certificate option
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#6

Maranatha Baptist University

Watertown, WI - Private 4-year - mbu.edu

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

Maranatha Baptist University's online Master of Arts in Teaching Elementary program is designed for educators pursuing Wisconsin DPI-approved K-9 certification. This flexible, fully online program can be completed in under two years with six annual start dates, requiring a 2.75 GPA and background check. It includes clinical experiences and personalized mentorship, preparing graduates for elementary teaching roles. As a master's level program, no entrance exam is required, making it accessible for career-changers and professionals seeking advancement in education.

  • Wisconsin DPI approved license
  • Fully online program
  • Complete in two years
  • K-9 Elementary certification
  • 33-41 total credit hours
  • Six annual start dates
  • 2.75 minimum GPA required
  • Background check needed
  • Clinical experience options
  • Personalized faculty mentorship

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Master of Arts in Teaching Mathematics program at Maranatha Baptist University focuses on mathematics education, offering state-approved licensure through online or on-campus options. It requires a 2.75 GPA, background check, and Praxis II Mathematics exam for certification, with 30-38 credit hours and clinical teaching experiences. Designed for career-changers and educators, this master's program does not mandate an entrance exam, emphasizing innovative teaching strategies and mentorship from experienced faculty.

  • State-approved MAT program
  • 30-38 total credit hours
  • Both online and on-campus
  • 2.75 minimum GPA required
  • Praxis II Mathematics exam
  • Background check required
  • Bachelor's degree prerequisite
  • Experienced faculty mentors
  • Clinical teaching experiences
  • Career-change friendly program
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#7

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Milwaukee, WI - Public 4-Year - uwm.edu

Master's - Curriculum and Instruction, MS

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee offers a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction, a 30-credit hybrid program that enhances teaching practices through advanced pedagogical insights. It includes multiple specialization tracks, culturally responsive strategies, and a research-focused curriculum, preparing educators for leadership in diverse academic settings. This master's-level program does not require an entrance exam, as it emphasizes flexible learning and urban education.

  • 30-credit graduate program
  • Multiple specialization options
  • Culturally responsive teaching
  • Research-focused curriculum
  • Urban education emphasis
  • Flexible course selection
  • Baccalaureate degree required
  • Criminal background check needed
  • Doctoral pathway available

Master's - Curriculum and Instruction, MS (English Education)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Focusing on English Education, this Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee develops advanced skills in pedagogical theory and practice. The hybrid program includes culturally responsive teaching, research paradigms, and specialization options, equipping educators to improve student engagement. No entrance exam is required for this master's degree, which supports teacher certification and urban education emphasis.

  • Minimum 30 credit program
  • Multiple English Education specializations
  • Culturally responsive teaching focus
  • Research and practical coursework
  • Teacher certification options
  • Urban education emphasis
  • Flexible specialization paths

Master's - Curriculum and Instruction, MS (Mathematics Education)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Mathematics Education concentration in the Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee empowers educators with advanced strategies for mathematical learning. This hybrid program features culturally responsive pedagogy, research integration, and flexible coursework, addressing diverse classroom challenges. No entrance exam is needed for this master's-level program, which requires a baccalaureate degree and background check.

  • 30 total credit minimum
  • Hybrid program format
  • Culturally responsive pedagogy
  • Research-focused curriculum
  • Urban education emphasis
  • Requires baccalaureate degree
  • Criminal background check needed
  • Specialization in Mathematics Education
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#8

University of Wisconsin-River Falls

River Falls, WI - Public 4-Year - uwrf.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Education and Initial Teaching Certification

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Wisconsin-River Falls offers a hybrid Master of Science in Education and Initial Teaching Certification program for career-changers seeking elementary licensure. It combines online coursework with in-person student teaching, leading to Wisconsin certification for grades K-9. A bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.75 GPA is required, along with passing professional assessments. The program emphasizes pedagogical theory, practical methods, and specialized areas like literacy and STEM. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this master's level program.

  • Wisconsin teaching certification
  • Online with in-person student teaching
  • 32 credit initial licensure program
  • Designed for career-changers
  • Kindergarten through 9th grade focus
  • Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA
  • Requires passing professional assessments

Master's - Master of Science in Education (Secondary Education)

Campus Based - Visit Website

This campus-based Master of Science in Education with a Secondary Education concentration focuses on preparing STEM teachers through a cohort model. It includes project-based learning, subject-specific strategies, and flexible completion options such as thesis or capstone. Designed for aspiring educators, it provides state licensure preparation and specialized STEM courses. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this master's level program.

  • 24 credits core curriculum
  • Cohort-based learning model
  • Multiple degree completion paths
  • Secondary STEM teaching focus
  • State licensure preparation
  • Project-based instructional training
  • Specialized STEM teaching courses

Master's - Master of Science in Education in Mathematics (Secondary Education)

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Master of Science in Education in Mathematics at UW-River Falls is a campus program for secondary math teachers, enhancing expertise through advanced content, pedagogical techniques, and technology integration. It offers flexible three-year completion with research or capstone options, requiring math teaching certification and a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA. Focuses on curriculum development and AP course teaching. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this master's level program.

  • Three-year graduate program
  • Two completion options: Research/Capstone
  • 24 credits in mathematics content
  • Emerging technology integration
  • Requires math teaching certification
  • Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA
  • Learn advanced mathematical domains
  • Develop curriculum skills
  • Teach AP courses potential
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#9

Carthage College

Kenosha, WI - Private 4-year - carthage.edu

Master's - Master of Education (Cross Categorical Special Education (K-12))

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Carthage College's Master of Education in Cross Categorical Special Education (K-12) is a hybrid program requiring 36 credits for initial licensure, focusing on inclusive education for learners with exceptionalities. It emphasizes academic and behavioral strategies, instructional technology, and culturally responsive teaching, with hands-on field experience. As a master's level program, it may require an entrance exam such as the GRE, but this is not explicitly stated in the provided data.

  • 36-credit specialized licensure program
  • Hybrid learning format
  • K-12 special education focus
  • Field experience required
  • Culturally responsive instruction

Master's - Accelerated Certification for Teachers (Secondary Education)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Carthage College's Accelerated Certification for Teachers program offers secondary education licensure in a hybrid format with weeknight and Saturday classes, allowing specialization in subjects like science or math. It includes coursework in child development and classroom management, with an optional M.Ed. track and rolling enrollment. As a certification program, it may require an entrance exam, but this is not specified in the data provided.

  • Flexible cohort-model program
  • Secondary education licensure
  • Weeknight and Saturday classes
  • Multiple teaching subject areas
  • Optional M.Ed. track
  • Rolling enrollment
  • Field placement included
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#10

University of Wisconsin-Superior

Superior, WI - Public 4-Year - uwsuper.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Education – Special Education

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Wisconsin-Superior offers an online Master of Science in Education in Special Education, designed for educators aiming to enhance their skills in supporting K-12 students with diverse learning needs. This 12-month program, with a total tuition of $15,600, provides flexibility for working professionals and covers essential topics such as behavior intervention, legal frameworks, and inclusive strategies. No entrance exam is required, and it is compliant with Wisconsin state licensure, making it ideal for those seeking initial licensure or career advancement in high-demand special education roles.

  • Online K-12 Special Education Licensure
  • $15,600 Total Tuition
  • Flexible 12-Month Program
  • No GRE Required
  • Wisconsin State Licensure Compliant
  • 30 Total Credit Hours
  • Multiple Course Start Dates
  • TEACH Grant Eligible
*Data obtained from: NCES IPEDS 2024 database. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Learn more about our methodology

Fastest M.Ed. Programs in Wisconsin

Educators holding Tier I Provisional or Emergency licenses—and veterans seeking a quick salary bump—often need graduate credentials fast. Wisconsin universities have built accelerated, cohort‑based pathways compressing 30‑36 credits into four‑semester or one‑year calendars. Programs rely on eight‑week online modules, year‑round enrollment, and job‑embedded capstones so you can stay in your classroom while earning your degree.

SchoolSpecialtyProgram LengthFormat
Cardinal Stritch UniversityEducational Leadership12 monthsOnline
UW‑La CrosseProfessional Development12–16 monthsOnline
Marquette UniversityReading Specialist12–18 monthsHybrid
UWMExceptional Education16 monthsHybrid
UW‑MadisonCurriculum & Instruction16–18 monthsHybrid
Viterbo UniversityTESOL18 monthsOnline

Explore additional one‑year degrees. Check our national roundup of quick M.Ed. programs for more accelerated options.

Cheapest M.Ed. Programs in Wisconsin

The UW System’s comprehensive campuses keep tuition competitive—often under $430 per online credit, and Wisconsin educators can tap the Teacher Education Loan program for high‑need subjects. These budget‑friendly master’s degrees deliver strong ROI without hefty debt.

SchoolSpecialtyTuition RangeFormat
UW‑La CrosseEarly Childhood$10,000–$12,000Online
UW‑StoutInstructional Design$10,500–$12,500Online
UW‑MilwaukeeLiteracy Education$11,000–$13,000Hybrid
UW‑OshkoshSpecial Education$11,500–$13,500Online
Cardinal Stritch UniversityUrban Teaching$11,500–$13,500Online
UW‑MadisonEducational Leadership$12,000–$14,000Hybrid

Looking for more low‑cost picks? Dive into our guide to affordable master’s programs for wallet‑friendly choices nationwide.

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

Wisconsin’s Tier I to Tier III upgrade and Add‑On Endorsements often run through M.Ed. programs.

  • Enroll in a DPI‑approved Educator Preparation Program at the master’s level.
  • Pass the Praxis Subject Assessment or the Wisconsin Foundations of Reading Test (WFORT) for applicable areas.
  • Complete a Performance‑Based Assessment and mentorship program.
  • Submit fingerprints for a DOJ/FBI background check.
  • Apply via the Educator Licensing Online (ELO) portal for the Lifetime License or endorsement upon program completion.

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

Yes—online M.Ed. programs enable educators from Lake Superior to Lake Geneva to earn advanced credentials without stepping away from their classrooms.

Pros

  • Asynchronous coursework fits coaching, agriculture, and family life.
  • UW System in‑state tuition extends to distance learners.
  • Field experiences arranged in your CESA or district.

Cons

  • Broadband can be limited in the Northwoods regions.
  • Networking is largely virtual.
  • Some residencies or orientations may require campus visits.

Explore online master’s in education programs

What Are the Admissions Requirements for M.Ed. Programs in Wisconsin?

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Minimum GPA 2.75–3.0
  • 2–3 professional recommendations
  • Personal statement outlining career goals
  • Résumé (teaching experience preferred)
  • Praxis Core or GRE scores (licensure seekers, depending on program)

Popular Master’s in Education Degree Specialties in Wisconsin

Top Employers and School Districts for M.Ed. Graduates in Wisconsin

  • Milwaukee Public Schools
  • Madison Metropolitan School District
  • Green Bay Area Public Schools
  • Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
  • University of Wisconsin System
  • Racine Unified School District

See teacher salary trends

Take the Next Step

Whether upgrading from a Tier I license, pursuing a reading endorsement, or stepping into an administrative post, an M.Ed. from a Wisconsin university can elevate your impact statewide. Compare program lengths, tuition, and delivery modes—then choose the pathway that aligns with your professional goals. Your next chapter in Wisconsin education starts today.

Sources

  1. Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction – Educator Supply & Licensure Data
  2. DPI Educator Licensing Online (ELO) Portal
  3. ETS Praxis / WFORT – Wisconsin Testing Requirements
  4. Higher Learning Commission – Accredited Institutions Directory

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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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