Master's in Education at University of Memphis: Programs, Costs & Outcomes

In 2024, 2025, 34 percent of Tennessee public schools were understaffed, with deep shortages in special education and secondary STEM. Memphis relies on the University of Memphis to prepare the teachers and leaders its schools need. UofM’s master’s programs offer a direct route into high-demand licensure areas and advanced roles, with tuition ranging from $528 to $740 per credit hour for in-state students. That investment typically triggers a 10 to 15 percent salary bump on district pay scales, making the cost-benefit calculus concrete for educators who commit.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Master's in Education Programs and Specializations at Uofm

What specific master's in education degree programs can you pursue at the University of Memphis, and how do you locate the most current and detailed information about each specialization?

Start at the Official University Website

The most reliable and up-to-date source for program offerings is the University of Memphis College of Education website. Universities regularly update their graduate catalogs, so visiting memphis.edu/education (or the specific graduate programs page) ensures you see the current list of degrees, concentrations, and any newly added programs. Look for a section labeled "Graduate Programs," "Master's Degrees," or "Academics." From there, you can typically filter by degree type (M.Ed., MAT, MS, etc.) or by subject area (elementary education, secondary education, special education, literacy, instructional design, etc.). Bookmark the program pages of interest to compare admission requirements, curriculum, and faculty later.

Understand Common Master's Degree Types

Education graduate programs come in several flavors, each designed for different career goals. At UofM, you may encounter: - Master of Education (M.Ed.): Often focused on advanced practice, curriculum development, or leadership roles that do not always require initial licensure. Common concentrations include instruction and curriculum leadership, literacy, or special education. - Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT): Typically designed for career changers who hold a bachelor's in a field outside education and want to earn initial teaching licensure. Programs may offer tracks in elementary, secondary, or K-12 subject areas. - Master of Science (MS) or specialized master's: Some education-related fields, like educational psychology, school counseling, or music education, may award an MS or a Master of Music. These programs often align with specific licensure or professional standards.

If you are unsure which degree fits your goals, many university sites include a "Which Program Is Right for You?" tool or a comparison chart; our guide on how to choose a masters in education specialization offers additional insights, and UofM's graduate admissions or education advising office can also guide you.

Check Licensure and Accreditation Alignment

Your choice of program should match your state's licensure requirements if you intend to teach in public schools. Visit the Tennessee Department of Education's website and our teacher licensure FAQs page to understand the pathways for teacher certification. Then, cross-reference that with UofM's program descriptions, which usually indicate whether a program leads to licensure and which endorsements are available. Accrediting bodies like the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) ensure quality, so confirm that UofM's programs hold current accreditation.

Compare Program Formats and Timelines

Once you identify potential programs, look at delivery methods: some are fully online, some on-campus, and others hybrid. UofM likely offers flexibility for working educators. Also, note the total credit hours and estimated time to completion. While costs vary, public institutions often provide a transparent per-credit-hour rate on their bursar or tuition pages. For the most accurate tuition details, visit the UofM tuition and fees page rather than third-party aggregators.

Use Government Data for Career Context

When evaluating a program, consider its potential return on investment. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS.gov) publishes occupational outlook data for teachers and education administrators, including median pay, job growth, and typical entry-level education. While program-level salary data is limited, you can look at broader trends for roles like elementary school teacher, instructional coordinator, or principal. Compare those figures with the cost of attendance at UofM to make an informed decision.

By starting with the official website, mapping programs to your career goals, and consulting reliable external sources, you can build a clear picture of what the University of Memphis offers without relying on outdated or incomplete information.

Online, On-Campus, and Hybrid Delivery Options

Choosing the right delivery format can mean the difference between earning your master's while you teach full-time and putting your career on hold to attend school. The University of Memphis structures its graduate education programs across three distinct delivery modes: fully online, on-campus evening classes, and hybrid blends, so you can match your learning style and life commitments.

Fully Online Programs: Maximize Flexibility

Several UofM Master's in Education pathways are available entirely online, with no mandatory campus visits. The Instruction and Curriculum Leadership M.Ed., for instance, is designed as a fully online program that combines asynchronous content, discussion boards, recorded lectures, and self-paced assignments, with occasional synchronous class meetings via video conferencing. This format lets you complete coursework on your own schedule while still connecting with instructors and peers in real time. Other online offerings include select concentrations in Educational Leadership and Special Education, which follow a similar model, though you should verify specific requirements with an advisor as program designs evolve.

On-Campus and Evening Classes: Face-to-Face Engagement

If you thrive on direct interaction, many programs hold classes on the University of Memphis main campus in the evenings. This scheduling intentionally accommodates working professionals, with most graduate education courses meeting once per week after 4:30 PM. The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program, for example, often requires in-person attendance for methods courses and student teaching field experiences that demand hands-on practice. Evening classes foster strong peer networks and immediate feedback from seasoned faculty, which can be especially valuable for early-career teachers seeking licensure.

Hybrid Delivery: The Best of Both Worlds

A handful of programs blend online and on-campus components into a hybrid format. Typically, these programs deliver the majority of coursework online but require periodic on-campus intensives (think weekend seminars, summer residencies, or practicum labs). These in-person sessions are designed to deepen your learning through collaborative exercises, case studies, and direct observation. If you are considering a hybrid program, plan for a short-term residency requirement; for example, the Music Education master's may include a summer institute on campus. Check your program's specific plan of study for exact dates and durations, as they can range from a few days to a couple of weeks per term.

Scheduling for Working Educators

Recognizing that many graduate students are full-time teachers, UofM builds flexibility into its academic calendar. Most programs allow part-time enrollment, letting you take one or two courses per term. Summer-start options are available for several programs, which means you can begin your degree when your teaching schedule is lightest. Courses often follow accelerated 8-week terms, enabling you to focus on one subject intensively before moving to the next. This modular approach helps you make steady progress without juggling too many deadlines at once. Whether you choose online, in-person, or a mixture, the structure is geared toward balancing teaching and grad school.

Cost of a Master’s in Education at University of Memphis

How much should you expect to pay for a master’s in education at University of Memphis? The answer depends on your residency status and whether you choose online or on-campus courses. Below, we break down the current tuition rates, total program estimates, financial aid options, and potential tuition discounts to help you plan your investment.

Tuition per Credit Hour

University of Memphis sets graduate tuition rates based on delivery format and residency. For the 2026-2027 academic year, per-credit costs are as follows:

• Online programs (all students): $697 per credit hour.¹
• On-campus, in-state residents: approximately $840 per credit hour.²
• On-campus, out-of-state residents: approximately $1,085 to $1,090 per credit hour.²
• On-campus, international students: approximately $1,331 to $1,338 per credit hour.²

These rates reflect a 2.8% increase from the previous year,² a modest adjustment that is typical for graduate tuition. Note that the university applies a tuition cap at 10 credit hours per semester,³ meaning full-time students who enroll in more than 10 credits may pay a flat rate for that semester, which can lower the effective per-credit cost if you take a heavy course load.

Estimated Total Program Cost

Most Master’s in Education programs at UofM require between 30 and 36 credit hours. Using the standard 30-credit model, total tuition costs before fees look like this:

• Online students: $20,910.¹
• In-state, on-campus students: $25,200.²
• Out-of-state, on-campus students: $32,640 to $32,700.²

Keep in mind that these figures cover tuition only. Mandatory fees, textbooks, and living expenses add to the overall cost of attendance. For a fuller picture, the university estimates that a typical in-state graduate student living off campus in the 2025-2026 year needed about $35,851 annually,⁴ while those living with family needed around $27,268.⁴ Adjust these numbers slightly upward for 2026-2027 to account for inflation and small tuition increases.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

UofM offers several avenues to reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Graduate assistantships are available and often include a stipend along with a partial or full tuition waiver.⁵ These positions typically involve working in research, teaching, or administrative roles within the College of Education, giving you hands-on experience while funding your degree.

The federal TEACH Grant is another option for students who plan to teach in a high-need field at a low-income school. If you qualify, you can receive up to $4,000 per year,⁵ though you must meet service obligations after graduation to avoid the grant converting to a loan. Federal direct unsubsidized loans and Grad PLUS loans are also available to most graduate students, and completing the FAFSA is the first step toward accessing them.

Within the College of Education, competitive scholarships exist specifically for graduate students. For the 2026-2027 year, the college awarded 10 scholarships valued at $4,000 each.⁵ Awards are based on merit, financial need, or a combination of both, so early application is wise.

Tuition Reciprocity and Border-State Discounts

If you live outside Tennessee, you may still qualify for in-state tuition rates through the Academic Common Market (ACM). The ACM is an agreement among 16 Southern states that allows eligible graduate students to pay resident tuition if their home state does not offer a comparable program. Several education specializations at UofM are approved for ACM participation, so it is worth checking with the graduate school and your state’s ACM coordinator to see if your program qualifies.

Some neighboring states also maintain direct reciprocity agreements with Tennessee, though these vary by program and year. Contacting the UofM graduate admissions office directly is the best way to confirm whether you can secure a reduced rate based on where you live. Even if you do not fit a formal program, a conversation with financial aid counselors can often uncover lesser-known waiver opportunities.

Understanding the full cost picture, and the many ways to offset it, puts you in control of your graduate education investment. Reach out to the University of Memphis Bursar’s Office and the College of Education for the most current tuition schedules, fee details, and scholarship deadlines before you apply.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Admissions Requirements and Deadlines

Admission to University of Memphis graduate education programs follows a clear process, but specifics vary by specialization. Use this checklist as a starting point, and always confirm details with your program of interest, as requirements are based on the 2024–2025 academic year and may be updated.

• Bachelor’s Degree

  You must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Official transcripts must be submitted directly to the Graduate School.
• Online Application & Fee

  Complete the online graduate application and pay the nonrefundable $35 processing fee.
• Minimum GPA

  Most programs require a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75. Some specializations, such as the M.S. in Educational Psychology & Research, require a 3.0 GPA.
• Test Scores

  The GRE is not required for the majority of College of Education master’s programs. However, policies are program-specific; confirm whether your intended program has any testing mandates.
• Letters of Recommendation

  Expect to provide two to three letters. For example, the M.S. in Educational Psychology & Research requires three letters from academic or professional references.
• Personal Statement

  A statement of purpose is typically required, often around 500 words. Tailor your statement to the program’s focus and follow any specific prompts.
• Resume or CV

  Submit a current résumé or curriculum vitae detailing relevant professional and academic experience.
• Teaching License (If Applicable)

  Some master’s programs designed for licensed educators may require a copy of your valid teaching license. Verify this with your program coordinator.
• Interview

  After initial application review, faculty may invite you for an interview. This is not a universal step but can be a deciding factor in competitive admissions.
• Application Deadlines

  Deadlines vary by program and entry term (fall, spring, summer). As a reference, the M.S. in Educational Psychology & Research has a March 1 priority deadline for fall admission. Check your program’s website for exact dates, and submit early to ensure consideration for funding.

Career Outcomes and Salary Potential for Uofm Graduates

A master's degree in education from the University of Memphis unlocks leadership roles, higher salary bands, and specialized career paths across the Mid-South's educational landscape. Whether you aim to stay in the classroom, move into curriculum design, or pursue a school leadership role, UofM's graduate programs connect you with the region's largest employers.

Career Pathways for UofM Education Graduates

Common careers for masters in education graduates include instructional coordinator, curriculum specialist, literacy coach, special education lead, department chair, and music teacher.¹ University of Memphis alumni surveys show graduates step into roles such as classroom teacher, instructional designer, school administrator, counselor, university instructor, and corporate trainer.¹ The program's emphasis on evidence-based practice prepares you for both school-based and nontraditional settings, from Shelby County Schools to corporate learning departments at organizations like St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Earnings and Return on Investment

Program-level salary outcomes for education master's completers at one, two, and four years after graduation are not yet available in federal datasets.¹ However, broader metrics signal strong value. For master's degree holders across all fields in the Memphis metropolitan area, the median annual wage is $81,498, with typical salaries ranging from $61,200 to $96,200.² Federal data indicates that the University of Memphis MAT program's return on investment exceeds 2.0, meaning projected lifetime earnings more than double the typical educational debt, reflecting competitive master's in education salary levels. While actual pay varies by role and district, an MAT or M.Ed. substantially increases your earning capacity compared to a bachelor's degree alone.

Where UofM Graduates Work

Partner school districts consistently recruit from UofM's teacher education pipeline. Graduates fill positions in Shelby County Schools, the largest district in the state, as well as in charter networks like KIPP Memphis and Freedom Preparatory Academy. Private and parochial schools, along with regional community colleges including Southwest Tennessee Community College, also hire UofM-trained education professionals. The university's University Schools serve as a direct employment channel for many graduates. Beyond the classroom, nonprofits and healthcare organizations value the instructional design and training expertise developed through these programs.

Advancing into Administration

Adding an administrative licensure endorsement (such as principal licensure through the Ed.S. or a certification-only path) unlocks roles like principal, assistant principal, instructional supervisor, and district leadership positions. Tennessee requires a valid school administrator license for these roles, and UofM's advanced programs help you meet the requirements while building the skills to lead in urban and diverse school contexts. As experienced educators retire, demand for qualified administrators grows, making this a strategic next step for master's holders.

Top-Earning Master’s in Education at Uofm

University of Memphis Vs. Other Tennessee Education Schools

In-state graduate education tuition at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville runs $740 per credit hour in 2026 to 2027², pushing a full master’s degree cost to over $22,000, yet that figure is still well below the national average of more than $44,000 for a Master’s in Education¹. When you stack up the University of Memphis against other Master’s in Education programs in Tennessee, however, the financial picture and the program fit shift in important ways.

How Tennessee Public Universities Compare for Graduate Education

Below is an objective side-by-side look at UofM and four peer institutions. Numbers are estimates, as final costs depend on specific programs and credit loads.

- School: University of Memphis In-State Tuition per Credit: $550 to $650 (estimated range) Estimated Total Program Cost: $16,500 to $23,400 for 30 to 36 credits Online Options: Multiple fully online and hybrid M.Ed. tracks, including Instruction & Curriculum Leadership and MAT Key Specializations: Music Education, Instruction & Curriculum Leadership, Special Education, School Library Media, Adult Education

- School: University of Tennessee, Knoxville In-State Tuition per Credit: $740 (2026 to 2027 official)² Estimated Total Program Cost: $22,200 to $26,640 for 30 to 36 credits Online Options: Fully online MS in Adult and Continuing Education³; hybrid/on-campus for others Key Specializations: Adult & Continuing Education, Instructional Technology, Educational Leadership, ESL, Special Education

- School: Middle Tennessee State University In-State Tuition per Credit: $500 to $600 (estimated range) Estimated Total Program Cost: $15,000 to $21,600 for 30 to 36 credits Online Options: Several fully online M.Ed. and MAT programs (e.g., Literacy, Administration & Supervision) Key Specializations: Literacy, Administration & Supervision, Curriculum & Instruction, Special Education

- School: Austin Peay State University In-State Tuition per Credit: $500 to $600 (estimated range) Estimated Total Program Cost: $15,000 to $21,600 for 30 to 36 credits Online Options: Online M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction; hybrid licensure tracks Key Specializations: Curriculum & Instruction, Educational Leadership, Reading, SPED

- School: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga In-State Tuition per Credit: $550 to $650 (estimated range) Estimated Total Program Cost: $16,500 to $23,400 for 30 to 36 credits Online Options: Fully online M.Ed. in Educational Leadership; some hybrid options Key Specializations: Educational Leadership, School Leadership, Teacher Education, Literacy

Where Memphis Carves Its Niche

What sets the University of Memphis apart is not just cost but the combination of unique specializations and delivery flexibility. The Music Education master’s is a standout; few Tennessee public schools offer a dedicated graduate track in this area, giving Memphis a clear edge for music teachers seeking advanced credentials.

Similarly, UofM’s long-standing urban partnerships mean teacher residency and clinical placements are deeply embedded in Memphis schools, which can be a decisive factor for educators wanting hands-on experience in a diverse, high-need district. While UT Knoxville, MTSU, and Austin Peay all provide strong licensure pathways, Memphis’s balance of online convenience and on-campus hybrid options suits working teachers who may need to toggle between formats as their schedules change.

Cost-wise, UofM lands in a competitive middle ground. Its estimated per-credit rate falls below UT Knoxville’s published figure, and the total program cost is comparable to MTSU or Austin Peay once you factor in the actual number of credits required. For out-of-state students, all Tennessee public universities charge higher rates, but many (including Memphis) offer non-resident tuition scholarships for online learners that can narrow the gap.

Ultimately, the right choice hinges on which specializations align with your career goals, how much flexibility you need, and whether an urban or regional setting better supports your professional network. Review each school’s licensure outcomes and speak with program advisors, especially if you are targeting an administrative endorsement or a niche like music education, before committing.

How to Apply to Uofm Graduate Education Programs

Applying to a master's in education at the University of Memphis is a straightforward process designed for working educators. Follow the steps below to submit your application and required materials.

Related Articles

Accreditation and Tennessee Licensure Pathways

Pursuing a master's in education can help you earn an initial teaching license or build on an existing one. At the University of Memphis, both paths run through programs that meet rigorous state and national standards, giving you a credential that carries weight wherever your career takes you.

CAEP Accreditation and State Approval

The College of Education is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), the gold standard for educator preparation programs.¹ This accreditation covers both initial-licensure and advanced-level programs and is valid through Fall 2029, with the next review scheduled for Spring 2029.² The university itself holds regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).³ All education programs are also approved by the Tennessee State Department of Education, ensuring they meet state-specific requirements for certification.⁴

Initial Licensure Through the MAT Program

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) is the direct route for career changers and aspiring educators who need a first teaching license. The program includes a full-time, supervised student teaching placement that provides hands-on classroom experience. Available licensure areas span high-demand fields: Elementary Education K-5, Early Childhood PreK-3, Interventionist K-8 and 6-12, Physical Education K-12, and Visual Arts K-12.⁴ This range allows you to align your degree with the grade level and subject area you are most passionate about.

Add-On Endorsements and Exam Requirements

Beyond your primary licensure area, many master's tracks let you add endorsements in Literacy or Special Education through carefully sequenced coursework. This can broaden your teaching qualifications without extending your program significantly. To earn licensure, you will need to meet the Praxis exam requirements, including the Praxis Subject Assessments (Praxis II) in your content area.⁴ For initial licensure candidates, the edTPA performance assessment is also a standard requirement; the college provides structured guidance and practice to help you prepare for both exams.

Licensure for Out-of-State Candidates

If you plan to teach outside Tennessee, the University of Memphis supports licensure transfer through reciprocity agreements that many states honor. While requirements vary by state, CAEP accreditation¹ and a recommendation from UofM's educator preparation office typically smooth the path. Dedicated licensure advisors can help you understand the specific steps needed in your target state, whether that means additional exams or supplemental coursework.

Common Questions About University of Memphis Education Programs

Find answers to common questions about the University of Memphis Master's in Education programs, from specializations and costs to admissions and career outcomes. Whether you are exploring online options or seeking initial licensure, these FAQs provide a quick overview. For detailed information, visit the official University of Memphis College of Education website.