Best Master’s in Education Degree Programs in Colorado
From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the sun‑soaked vineyards of Palisade and the innovative classrooms of Denver Public Schools, Colorado blends outdoor adventure with educational excellence. The Centennial State serves over 900,000 K‑12 students and has pioneered competency‑based learning in many districts, yet faces teacher shortages in mountain and rural communities. Earning a Master’s in Education (M.Ed.) can fast‑track salary increases, open doors to leadership roles, and equip educators for specialized fields like STEM and bilingual education. This guide ranks Colorado’s top M.Ed. programs, highlights the quickest and most affordable degrees, outlines licensure pathways, and spotlights high‑demand specialties and employers.

Table of Contents
2026 Best Master's in Education Degree Programs in Colorado
Regis University
Denver, CO - Private 4-year - regis.edu
Master's - Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Regis University's Master of Education in Educational Leadership is a hybrid program designed for educators seeking principal licensure. It focuses on developing advanced leadership skills through a blend of online and in-person coursework, with a completion time of 12-18 months. The curriculum covers educational policy, organizational culture, and practical management techniques. Entrance exams are not specified as required, and the program offers a competitive tuition of $589 per credit hour, including discounts for licensed teachers.
- Principal Licensure Program
- Blended 8-week course format
- 12-18 month completion time
- Cohort-based learning model
- $589 per credit hour
- 10% tuition discount available
- Colorado Department of Education aligned
- 30 total credit hours
- 94% program completion rate
- Uses Emergenetics leadership profile
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Master of Education in Special Education at Regis University is an online program that prepares educators for initial licensure in Colorado. It emphasizes evidence-based practices, social justice, and inclusive teaching, requiring 200 field hours and the PRAXIS exam for completion. With a duration of 24-36 months, the program costs $589 per credit hour and offers tuition discounts, focusing on supporting diverse learners through a comprehensive curriculum.
- Online 8-week terms
- Initial Colorado licensure
- 200 field work hours
- $589 per credit hour
- 48 total program credits
- 10% discount for teachers
- CDE and TEAC approved
- Jesuit education values
- Evidence-based instruction
- Diverse learner focus
Master's - Master of Education in Elementary Education
Online Learning - Visit Website
Regis University's online Master of Education in Elementary Education provides initial K-6 licensure with a focus on Jesuit values, evidence-based teaching, and inclusive education. The program includes 200 field hours and has a high Praxis exam pass rate of 99.2%. Completed in 24-36 months, it costs $589 per credit hour with discounts available, preparing graduates for meaningful careers in elementary education without a specified entrance exam requirement.
- Online program with 8-week terms
- 24-36 month completion time
- Initial Colorado K-6 licensure
- 99.2% Praxis exam pass rate
- 100+ partner schools for teaching
- Jesuit values-driven curriculum
- 10% tuition discount available
- 45 total program credits
- Diversity and equity focus
- Small class sizes
Master's - M.Ed. Special Education with Added Endorsement
Online Learning - Visit Website
The M.Ed. Special Education with Added Endorsement at Regis University is an online program for licensed teachers seeking a Special Education Generalist Endorsement. It can be completed in 20 months, costing $589 per credit hour with discounts, and does not require an entrance exam. The curriculum enhances teaching capabilities, focusing on expanding professional credentials through a flexible, CDE-certified pathway.
- Online program format
- 20-month completion time
- 10% tuition discount
- Requires current teaching license
- 30 total credit hours
- Flexible start dates
- Special Education Generalist Endorsement
- Colorado Department of Education certified
University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, CO - Public 4-Year - unco.edu
Master's - Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education M.A.T.
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Northern Colorado's online M.A.T. in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education prepares educators to support emergent bilingual learners through a 30-credit, two-year program. It emphasizes social justice, language development, and field experience, leading to a CLD endorsement. No entrance exam is required for this master's program, which is NCATE-accredited and offers high employment rates.
- Online flexible program
- 30 credit hours total
- 20 months to complete
- CLD endorsement option
- Extensive field experience
- NCATE-accredited program
- Prepares CLD specialists
- Social justice focused curriculum
- High graduate employment rate
Master's - Curriculum Studies M.A.T.
Online Learning - Visit Website
This online M.A.T. in Curriculum Studies at the University of Northern Colorado focuses on curriculum development and research-based practices over two years and 30 credits. Designed for K-12 teachers, it enhances skills for roles like instructional coordinators without requiring an entrance exam, and it is nationally recognized.
- Online flexible degree
- 30 total credit hours
- Completion in 2 years
- K-12 teacher focused
- Nationally recognized program
- Research-based curriculum
- Colorado teacher education
Master's - Elementary Education M.A.T. (with Licensure)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The hybrid M.A.T. in Elementary Education with Licensure from the University of Northern Colorado is a one-year, 45-credit program preparing career changers for K-6 teaching licensure in Colorado. It includes practicums, costs $636 per credit, and does not require an entrance exam, with a 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
- One-year teacher licensure program
- 45 total credit hours
- $636 per credit hour
- Hybrid delivery options
- K-6 Elementary Education focus
- Colorado Department of Education accredited
- Practicums and student teaching
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Multiple location options
- Designed for career changers
Colorado Christian University
Lakewood, CO - Private 4-year - ccu.edu
Master's - Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado Christian University's online Master of Education in Educational Leadership is a 36-credit program that can be completed in as little as 20 months, designed for educators seeking advanced roles. It offers both licensure and non-licensure tracks, meeting ISLLC and ELCC standards, and does not require an entrance exam. Focused on developing innovative leaders for K-12 environments, particularly in charter and private schools, it includes flexible coursework and allows transfer of up to 6 graduate credits.
- 36 credit hour program
- Online flexible learning
- Complete in 20 months
- Licensure and non-licensure options
- Meets ISLLC and ELCC standards
- Transfer up to 6 graduate credits
- Accredited by Higher Learning Commission
Master's - M.Ed. in TESOL
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado Christian University's online M.Ed. in TESOL is a 30-credit program completable in 15 months, preparing educators to teach English language learners globally and domestically. It aligns with TESOL International Association standards, offers a CLDE endorsement, and includes 60 hours of supervised fieldwork. No entrance exam is required, and it allows transfer of up to 12 credits, making it ideal for working professionals.
- Fully online 30-credit program
- Complete in 15 months
- CLDE endorsement available
- Transfer up to 12 credits
- Aligned with TESOL standards
- Embedded TESOL graduate certificate
- 60-hour supervised fieldwork
Master's - Master of Education in Educational Leadership (Licensure)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado Christian University's online Master of Education in Educational Leadership with a Licensure concentration is a 36-credit program that prepares graduates for principal licensure in Colorado, adhering to ISLLC and ELCC standards. It can be completed in 20 months, does not require an entrance exam, and focuses on developing collaborative leaders for K-12 improvement, with courses in five-week blocks for flexibility.
- 36 credit hours required.
- Online program format.
- Completion in 20 months.
- Adheres to ISLLC, ELCC standards.
- Prepares for principal licensure.
- Designed for busy professionals.
- Focus on K-12 education improvement.
- Innovative, collaborative leadership focus.
- Licensure concentration available.
- Accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
Master's - Master of Education in Educational Leadership (Non-Licensure)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado Christian University's online Master of Education in Educational Leadership with a Non-Licensure concentration is a 36-credit program designed for busy professionals, completable in 20 months. It adheres to ISLLC and ELCC standards, focuses on 21st-century educational challenges, and does not require an entrance exam. Accredited and flexible, it allows transfer of up to 6 credits for career advancement in educational leadership.
- 36 credit hours required.
- Online program format.
- Non-Licensure concentration.
- Complete in 20 months.
- Adheres to ISLLC and ELCC standards.
- Accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
- Designed for busy adult learners.
- Transfer up to 6 credit hours.
- Prepares for leadership roles in education.
- Focus on 21st-century educational challenges.
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Denver, CO - Public 4-Year - msudenver.edu
Master's - Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (Trauma-Informed Practices)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Metropolitan State University of Denver's Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Trauma-Informed Practices is a hybrid program that combines online and face-to-face learning. It focuses on equipping educators with skills to support students affected by trauma, emphasizing educational equity and responsive teaching methods. This program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible for working professionals. Graduates develop leadership abilities to foster inclusive and supportive educational environments, with a minimum 2.50 undergraduate GPA required for admission.
- Hybrid online/face-to-face delivery
- Focus on educational equity
- Trauma-informed pedagogical approach
- Minimum 2.50 undergraduate GPA
- Diverse concentration options
Master's - Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (Inclusive Practices)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction at Metropolitan State University of Denver, concentrating on Inclusive Practices, is delivered in a hybrid format. It prepares educators to design equitable learning environments for diverse student populations, focusing on leadership and action research. No entrance exam is required, and a minimum 2.50 undergraduate GPA is needed. This program supports flexible learning for professionals, emphasizing educational equity and innovative pedagogical approaches.
- Hybrid online/face-to-face delivery
- Focuses on educational equity
- Minimum 2.50 undergraduate GPA
- Concentration in Inclusive Practices
- Leadership skill development
Master's - Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (English Education)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Metropolitan State University of Denver offers a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with an English Education concentration in a hybrid format. It delves into linguistic diversity, literature, and writing techniques to enhance teaching practices. The program does not mandate an entrance exam and requires a minimum 2.50 undergraduate GPA. Designed for educators, it promotes equity and innovative curriculum development through a blend of online and in-person learning.
- Hybrid online/face-to-face format
- English Education concentration available
- Focus on educational equity
- Minimum 2.50 undergraduate GPA
- Innovative curriculum development
Colorado State University Pueblo
Pueblo, CO - Public 4-Year - csupueblo.edu
Master's - Master of Education (Curriculum & Instruction)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado State University Pueblo's online Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction focuses on enhancing teaching skills through advanced pedagogy, technology integration, and differentiated learning, aligned with National Board Standards. This 38-credit program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and emphasizes research-driven methodologies for K-12 educators, with no entrance exam mentioned. It offers opportunities for national certification and professional growth.
- Online Master's degree option
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
- 38 total semester hours
- Aligned with National Board Standards
- Focuses on teacher leadership
- Multiple concentration courses
- Research and change agent emphasis
- Professional portfolio development
Master's - Master of Education (Educational Leadership)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado State University Pueblo's online Master of Education in Educational Leadership prepares educators for K-12 leadership roles, focusing on organizational change and instructional improvement. The 47-credit program aligns with National Board Standards, requires a 3.0 GPA and teaching experience, and includes a portfolio project and oral examination. No entrance exam is specified for this master's level program.
- Principal licensure pathway
- 47 total credit hours
- National Board Standards aligned
- Online program available
- Requires 3.0 GPA
- Leadership focus
- Professional portfolio required
- Technology integration courses
- Research-based curriculum
Master's - Master of Education (Special Education)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado State University Pueblo's online Master of Education in Special Education develops expertise in special education strategies, research-driven practices, and instructional technology. This 38-semester-hour program requires a 3.0 GPA and significant teaching experience, aligning with National Board Certification. It emphasizes differentiation and professional growth, with no entrance exam mentioned for the master's degree.
- Online Master's degree option
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- 38 semester hours total
- Significant teaching experience needed
- National Board Certification alignment
- Three program components
- Research and professional change focus
- Advanced pedagogical strategies
- Instructional technology emphasis
- Differentiation of instruction
Adams State University
Alamosa, CO - Public 4-Year - adams.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Education (Curriculum and Instruction)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Adams State University offers an online Master of Arts in Education with a concentration in Curriculum and Instruction, designed for educators to enhance student learning in diverse cultural and linguistic settings. This five-semester, 30-credit program includes research methods training, collaborative learning, and a capstone project, focusing on advanced instructional strategies without requiring an entrance exam.
- Five-semester master's program
- 30 total credit hours
- Focuses on diverse student success
- Research methods training
- Professional collaboration emphasis
- Capstone project required
- Advanced instructional strategies
Master's - Master of Arts in Education (Curriculum and Instruction with STEM Concentration)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Adams State University's online Master of Arts in Education with a STEM concentration prepares educators with advanced teaching strategies for diverse student populations in science, technology, engineering, and math. This 30-credit program costs approximately $15,000, offers flexible start dates, and includes a STEM Leadership Certificate, with no entrance exam required.
- Online STEM education master's
- 30 total credit hours
- Affordable $15,000 program
- Flexible semester start dates
- Supports diverse student learning
- Hybrid course delivery model
- STEM Leadership Certificate included
- Graduate credits transferable
- Multiple course scheduling options
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Fort Collins, CO - Public 4-Year - colostate.edu
Master's - M.Ed. + ECE Teacher Licensure
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Colorado State University-Fort Collins offers a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education with teacher licensure, focusing on children from birth to age 8. This 12-month hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person experiences, including internships and practicums for real-world training. It requires a bachelor's degree, prerequisite coursework, and a minimum 3.0 GPA, but no entrance exam is specified. With a cost of $650 per credit and in-state tuition rates, the cohort-based model fosters professional networking. Graduates are prepared for impactful roles in early childhood education settings.
- Early Childhood Education cohort available
- 12-month intensive program
- 41 total graduate credits
- $650 per credit tuition
- Includes teacher licensure
- Birth to age 8 focus
- Cohort-based learning model
- Real classroom internship experiences
- Summer semester start required
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
Colorado Mesa University
Grand Junction, CO - Public 4-Year - coloradomesa.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Education (Initial Teacher Licensure - Secondary)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Colorado Mesa University offers a hybrid Master of Arts in Education with a concentration in Initial Teacher Licensure - Secondary, designed for aspiring secondary educators. This 42-semester-hour program emphasizes advanced pedagogical skills, curriculum design, educational technology, and cultural pedagogy through a cohort model over two years. It requires a bachelor's degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, three reference letters, and proof of youth engagement for admission, but does not mandate an entrance exam. The program includes a capstone project and prepares graduates for diverse learning environments, with a focus on secondary instruction. It is military-friendly and accessible online in a hybrid format, combining in-person and remote learning.
- 42 semester hours total
- Cohort model, two-year cycle
- Bachelor's degree required
- Hybrid program format
- Secondary education concentration
- Requires three reference letters
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Capstone project included
- Advanced pedagogical training
- Focused on secondary instruction

Learn more about our methodology
Fastest M.Ed. Programs in Colorado
Colorado’s M.Ed. programs typically span two years, but several schools offer quick, short, accelerated tracks that finish in 12–18 months through summer residencies and eight‑week modules.
| School | Specialty | Program Length | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Colorado Colorado Springs | Educational Psychology | 12 months | Fully online |
| Metropolitan State University of Denver | Special Education | 12–15 months | Online + campus intensives |
| Colorado Christian University | Instructional Technology | 12 months | Hybrid |
| University of Denver | Educational Leadership | 15 months | Hybrid |
| Colorado State University | Curriculum & Instruction | 12–18 months | Online & campus |
| Regis University | School Counseling | 14 months | Online + weekend residencies |
For a deeper dive into all accelerated options, see more accelerated programs.
Cheapest M.Ed. Programs in Colorado
Tuition at Colorado’s public institutions often runs below $500 per credit for in‑state learners, while some private colleges cap fees for online cohorts—making these the most affordable, low‑cost, budget‑friendly choices.
| School | Specialty | Tuition Range* | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metropolitan State University of Denver | Special Education | $385/credit online | Fully online |
| Colorado State University | Curriculum & Instruction | $425/credit in‑state | Online & campus |
| University of Colorado Colorado Springs | Educational Psychology | $440/credit | Fully online |
| Colorado Christian University | Instructional Technology | $455/credit | Hybrid |
| Regis University | School Counseling | $480/credit | Online + residencies |
| University of Denver | M.Ed. (all concentrations) | $495/credit | Hybrid |
*2024–25 tuition rates; additional fees may apply. See more in our full affordable programs list.
What Master’s in Education Degrees Lead to Colorado Teacher Licensure?
Colorado’s educator licensure is administered by the Colorado Department of Education (CDE). Graduate programs can embed teacher preparation for Initial and Professional licenses, including the Praxis and edTPA assessments.
| Licensure Path | Certification Tier | Key Colorado Requirements | Typical Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Integrated M.Ed. + Initial License | Initial (K–12) | Bachelor’s, GPA ≥ 2.75, Praxis Core & Content, edTPA | 36–42 credits; online + field experience |
| M.Ed. for Professional License | Professional (renewed) | Valid Initial License, 3.0 GPA, 3 years teaching, continuing ed | 30 credits; online or campus |
| Special Education M.Ed. + License | Special Ed. | Bachelor’s, Praxis, edTPA, autism endorsement | 42–48 credits; hybrid |
For detailed licensing checklists and reciprocity info, see our full teaching‑licensure guide.
Are Online Master’s in Education Programs Available in Colorado?
Yes—public and private universities statewide offer fully online M.Ed. concentrations. Online degrees drop the commute, allow asynchronous lectures, and start multiple times yearly. However, students must secure local practicum placements and may incur tech fees ($50–$120 per term).
Pros
- Flexible pacing for working educators
- In‑state tuition for Colorado residents
- Access to specialized tracks like Bilingual Education and Educational Technology
Potential Drawbacks
- Less face‑to‑face cohort interaction
- Self‑driven structure for shorter terms
- Additional fees for proctored exams or LMS usage
Learn more on our online M.Ed. programs page.
Admissions Requirements for M.Ed. Programs in Colorado
Typical requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree (min. 2.75–3.0 GPA)
- Official transcripts
- Praxis Core & Content or GRE/MAT scores (waivers common for GPAs ≥ 3.0)
- Résumé/CV
- Two recommendation letters
- Personal statement outlining educational philosophy
- Background check for student teaching placements
Popular Master’s in Education Specialties in Colorado
Educators in Colorado gravitate toward these high‑demand specialties:
- Bilingual Education
- STEM Education
- Special Education
- Instructional Technology
- Educational Leadership
- School Counseling
Top Employers & Districts Hiring M.Ed. Graduates
Colorado’s largest districts and education organizations include:
- Denver Public Schools – 90,000+ students, diverse urban district
- Jeffco Public Schools – suburban district near Denver with leadership initiatives
- Douglas County Schools – one of the fastest‑growing districts in the nation
- Colorado Department of Education – curriculum and policy roles
- Teach For America – Colorado – places master’s‑prepared educators in under‑resourced schools
- KIPP Colorado – charter network expanding in urban areas
- Boulder Valley School District – a reputational leader in innovation and equity
Find salary benchmarks on our M.Ed. Salary Guide.
Your Next Step Toward a Master’s in Education in Colorado
Colorado’s blend of educational innovation, outdoor lifestyle, and commitment to equity creates fertile ground for M.Ed. graduates. An accredited master’s degree lets you champion public service, expand career development, and elevate student success. Compare programs, request info, and chart your path today.
Sources
- Colorado Department of Education – Teacher Supply and Demand Report 2024
- University of Colorado Boulder – “Graduate Tuition & Fees 2024–25”
- Metropolitan State University of Denver – “ Online Program Tuition”
- Colorado State University – “ College of Education Program Listings”
- Colorado Commission on Higher Education – Colorado Educator Licensure Handbook
- Public Education & Business Coalition (PEBC) – Education Innovation in Colorado
- Denver Public Schools – Human Resources Data
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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