Best Master’s in Education Degree Programs in Iowa

Dordt University's online Master of Education in School Leadership is a 30-credit program tailored for educators aiming to become administrators, leading to an Iowa Initial Administrator license. It can be completed in as little as 14 months with flexible online scheduling, blending theory with practical field experiences to develop advanced leadership and instructional skills. As a master's-level program, it may require an entrance exam, but this is not explicitly stated in the provided data.

• 30-credit online program
• Iowa administrator license
• Completable in 14 months
• Flexible semester scheduling
• Practical field experiences
• Leadership-focused curriculum
• State-approved specialization

Dordt University's online Master of Education in Educational Technology focuses on equipping educators with skills in technology integration and e-learning design through a 30-credit curriculum. It offers flexible terms over two to three years, incorporating Christian principles and emerging technologies for practical application in modern classrooms. For this master's program, an entrance exam might be required, though it is not specified in the data.

• 30-credit online master's program
• Flexible 15-week/8-week terms
• Christian educational perspective
• Technology integration focus
• Emerging technologies curriculum
• Portfolio-based learning
• Professional development oriented

Dordt University's online Master of Special Education is a Christ-centered program preparing educators to address learning and behavioral challenges with 30 semester hours at $415 per credit. It includes options for endorsements and BCBA certification, emphasizing practical experiences and flexible pacing over approximately two years. An entrance exam could be necessary for this master's degree, but it is not mentioned in the information provided.

• 100% Online Program
• Affordable $415 per credit
• Multiple Endorsement Tracks
• Christ-Centered Approach
• BCBA Certification Option
• 30 Semester Hour Specialization
• Practical Learning Experiences
• 3.0 GPA Admission Requirement

Dordt University's online Master of Special Education with an Instructional Strategist 1 & 2 concentration provides a 30-credit hour specialization for developing skills in behavior intervention and collaborative teaching, leading to K-12 endorsements. Designed for working professionals, it can be completed in about two years and includes a Christian leadership focus with BCBA certification pathways. Entrance exam requirements for this master's program are not detailed in the data.

• 100% Online Program
• 30 Credit Hour Specialization
• Two-Year Completion Option
• K-12 Instructional Endorsement
• Christian Leadership Focus
• BCBA Certification Pathway
• Behavior Intervention Training
• Learning Disabilities Expertise

Dordt University's online Master of Special Education with an Applied Behavior Analysis concentration offers a Christ-centered approach at $415 per credit, focusing on preparing educators for roles in special education through a 30-semester hour curriculum. It includes options for endorsements and BCBA certification, with flexible two-year completion and practical learning. For this master's-level program, an entrance exam may be required, but it is not explicitly stated.

• 100% Online Program
• Affordable $415 per credit
• Christ-centered education approach
• Multiple endorsement tracks
• BCBA certification option
• 30 semester hour specialization
• Flexible two-year completion
• Practical hands-on learning
• Higher Learning Commission accredited

Northwestern College's online M.Ed. in Educational Administration prepares educators for principal roles through a 37-credit program. It offers flexible 8-week courses, can be completed in about two years, and includes an internship. Aligned with national standards and Iowa certification, it costs $360 per credit and requires teaching experience. No entrance exam is specified for this master's level program.

• 100% online program
• 37 total credit hours
• Principal endorsement included
• $360 per credit cost
• Completion in 2 years
• Internship experiences included
• Aligned with national standards
• Teaching experience preferred

This online M.Ed. in Special Education at Northwestern College focuses on developing skills for diverse student needs through a 30-credit curriculum. It features 8-week courses, a two-year completion time, and affordability at $360 per credit. Approved by the Iowa Board of Education, it emphasizes evidence-based practices and leadership. No entrance exam is mentioned for this master's program.

• 100% Online Program
• 30 Total Credit Hours
• Two-Year Completion
• $360 Per Credit
• 8-Week Course Format
• TEACH Grant Eligible
• Iowa BOE Approved
• Leadership Preparation
• Flexible Learning Schedule
• Research-Based Curriculum

Northwestern College's online M.Ed. in Special Education with a concentration in Instructional Strategist I: Mild and Moderate Disabilities (K-8) offers 36-42 credits over two years. Priced at $360 per credit, it includes flexible scheduling and TEACH Grant eligibility. The program prepares educators for K-8 settings with strategies for assessment and inclusive management. No entrance exam is required for this master's level offering.

• 100% online program
• $360 per credit
• 36-42 total credit hours
• Completion in 2 years
• 8-week course format
• TEACH Grant eligible
• Multiple endorsement options
• Iowa Board of Education approved
• Concentration in K-8 mild/moderate
• Flexible scheduling

Focused on Instructional Strategist II: Behavior Disorders and Learning Disabilities (K-12), this online M.Ed. at Northwestern College spans 36-42 credits and takes two years to complete. Costing $360 per credit, it covers contemporary issues, assessment, and ethical considerations in special education. Developed with the Iowa Board of Education, it includes student teaching. No entrance exam is specified for this master's program.

• Online program.
• Cost per credit: $360.
• Completion in 2 years.
• 36-42 credit hours.
• 8-week courses.
• TEACH Grant eligible.
• Admissions: bachelor's degree.
• Focus on behavior and learning disabilities.
• Developed with Iowa Board of Education.
• Includes student teaching experience.

Drake University's Master of Science in Educational Leadership is a hybrid program blending online and on-campus learning, designed for educators aiming for administrative roles like principal or curriculum coordinator. It features a cohort model for networking and project-based coursework, enhancing leadership skills. As a master's level program, it may require an entrance exam such as the GRE, but specifics should be confirmed with the university. Military-friendly and emphasizing hands-on learning, it prepares graduates for diverse educational settings.

• Hybrid learning format
• Cohort-based program
• Prepares for administrative roles
• Project-based coursework
• State-wide professional reputation

The Master of Arts in Teaching at Drake University is a hybrid, part-time program tailored for career-changers seeking middle or high school certification. With 36 credits, flexible scheduling including online options, and opportunities for endorsements and scholarships, it supports licensure for grades 5-12. Entrance exams may be required for this master's program, but details on waivers or specifics should be verified. Military-friendly, it offers loan forgiveness and intern teaching licenses.

• Flexible part-time hybrid program
• 36-credit hour degree
• Designed for career-changers
• Middle/high school certification
• Multiple course scheduling options
• Multiple scholarship opportunities
• Teacher loan forgiveness options
• Intern teaching license available

Drake University's campus-based Master of Science in Special Education equips educators to support students with mild to moderate disabilities through research-based strategies. Focused on practical experiences and career advancement, it prepares for roles in diverse classrooms. As a master's program, entrance exams like the GRE might be necessary; check with the institution for requirements. Military-friendly, it includes scholarship and loan forgiveness opportunities.

• Research-based special education strategies
• Prepare for diverse classroom settings
• Career advancement opportunities
• Experienced faculty backgrounds
• Leadership role preparation
• Scholarship opportunities available
• Potential loan forgiveness programs
• Supports students with disabilities

Morningside University's online Master of Arts in Teaching with a concentration in Curriculum Studies is a 32-credit program focused on enhancing educators' skills through customizable coursework in areas like literacy, STEM, and ESL. It emphasizes practical, action-oriented research to improve classroom instruction and offers one of the lowest tuition rates nationally, making it a budget-friendly option for career advancement. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

• 100% online program
• 32 total credit hours
• Customizable curriculum focus
• Low tuition rates nationwide
• Action research component
• Potential salary schedule advancement
• Electives in curriculum/instruction
• Transfer credits available
• Flexible learning options

The online Master of Arts in Teaching in Middle Level Education at Morningside University prepares educators for middle school roles with a focus on curriculum development, literacy, and student growth. This flexible program includes practical experience opportunities and is designed for working professionals, featuring competitive tuition rates. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, and no entrance exam is needed for this master's level program.

• 100% online program.
• Focus on middle level education.
• Flexible for working professionals.
• Practical experience opportunities.
• Competitive tuition rates.
• Enhances curriculum development skills.
• Focuses on literacy and growth.
• Prepares for middle school teaching.
• Admission requires bachelor's degree.
• Affordable education advancement.

Iowa State University's M.A.T. in Mathematics Education is a 12-month graduate program for aspiring math educators, leading to a master's degree and teaching license for grades 5-12. It emphasizes advanced pedagogical skills through coursework and field experiences, tailored for those with strong math backgrounds. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

• 12-month master's program
• Teaching license for grades 5-12
• 35 total credit hours
• In-person modality
• Mathematics endorsement pathway
• Field experience included
• Prerequisites in mathematics
• Diverse mathematics education courses

The Master of Education in Education with a focus in Educational Technology at Iowa State University is an online program preparing professionals to integrate technology in learning environments. It offers a 30-credit curriculum covering instructional design and digital equity, ideal for working educators. No entrance exam is specified for this master's level program.

• Online flexible degree
• 30-credit graduate program
• 2-3 year completion time
• Cohort-based learning model
• Focuses on technology integration
• Research-driven curriculum
• Synchronous and asynchronous courses
• Designed for working professionals

Iowa State University's Special Education practitioner program offers M.Ed. and Ph.D. paths to support diverse learners with inclusive practices. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and minimum 3.0 GPA, with no GRE needed. It prepares graduates for teaching, research, and leadership roles in special education.

• Multiple degree options
• Prepare diverse learners
• No GRE required
• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Inclusive teaching practices
• Career paths: teaching/research
• Online licensure option
• International students welcome

The M.A.T. in Science Education at Iowa State University is a 12-month campus program for science enthusiasts to become licensed teachers for grades 5-12. It includes 35 credits of coursework and field experiences, focusing on pedagogical skills and scientific knowledge. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

• 12-month campus program
• Master's degree + teaching license
• 35 total required credits
• Grades 5-12 science teaching
• Multiple science endorsement options
• Multiple field experience opportunities
• Taught by experienced K-12 faculty
• Science methods courses included

Iowa State University's M.A.T. in Secondary Education with a concentration in English and Social Studies is a 35-credit program for grades 5-12 teaching endorsements. It can be completed in 1-2 years, combining academic training with practical skills. No entrance exam is specified for this master's level program.

• 35-credit Master's program
• 1-2 years completion time
• In-person modality
• 5-12 teaching endorsements
• English and Social Studies focus
• Multiple endorsement areas
• Comprehensive application process

• Multiple degree paths available
• Ph.D. prepares for faculty positions
• No GRE or GMAT required
• Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
• Online licensure option
• Supports ages 5-21
• Research and leadership focus
• Inclusive learning practices

Mount Mercy University's Master of Arts in Education with an Early Childhood Inclusive Classroom concentration is a hybrid program for teaching professionals, focusing on birth through grade 3. It emphasizes research skills, leadership, and advanced instructional strategies for inclusive settings, with a core curriculum of four courses. As a master's level program, it may require an entrance exam like the GRE, but this is not specified in the provided data.

• Birth through grade 3 focus
• Four-course core curriculum
• Research and leadership oriented
• Designed for teaching professionals
• Inclusive classroom preparation

Mount Mercy University offers an online Master of Science in Education in Leadership and Administration, designed for educators seeking leadership roles. It includes culturally responsive teaching and community engagement, with a 25% tuition discount for Iowa teachers. Requirements include a bachelor's degree, 3.0 GPA, teaching experience, and a valid Iowa license. For master's level, an entrance exam such as the GRE might be required, but it is not explicitly stated.

• Online Leadership concentration
• 25% tuition discount for Iowa teachers
• Flexible graduate program
• Requires 3.0 GPA
• Two years teaching experience needed

The campus-based Master of Arts in Education with a Special Education concentration at Mount Mercy University prepares educators for students with diverse needs, covering legal frameworks, collaboration, and evidence-based strategies. It allows for endorsements like Instructional Strategist and includes practical experience. As a master's program, an entrance exam could be necessary, but details are not provided.

• Multiple Special Education endorsements
• Research-based instructional strategies
• Comprehensive 30-35 semester hours
• Practical classroom teaching experience
• Focuses on legal and collaboration skills

Mount Mercy University's Master of Arts in Education with an Instructional Strategist I K-8 concentration is a campus program focusing on mild to moderate disabilities. It involves 30 semester hours, research-based strategies, diagnostic assessments, and supervised teaching. For master's level, an entrance exam may be required, though it is not specified.

• 30 semester hour program
• Specialized K-8 special education focus
• Research-based instructional strategies
• Diagnostic assessment training
• Supervised student teaching component

This campus program at Mount Mercy University is a Master of Arts in Education with a concentration in Instructional Strategist II K-12 for Behavior Disorders and Learning Disabilities. It spans 35 semester hours, includes student teaching, and emphasizes behavior intervention and diagnostic skills. As a master's level offering, an entrance exam might be needed, but it is not detailed.

• 35 total semester hours
• K-12 Behavior Disorders/Learning Disabilities focus
• Includes student teaching placement
• Research-based instructional strategies
• Advanced diagnostic assessment training

Buena Vista University offers an online Master of Education in Teacher Leadership, Curriculum, and Instruction with a concentration in Talented and Gifted. This program is designed for educators to advance their skills in identifying and supporting gifted students through a flexible, fully online format. No entrance exam is required, such as the GRE, making it accessible for working teachers. The 30-credit curriculum covers gifted student psychology, learning strategies, and program administration, emphasizing practical application. Admission requires a valid teaching license and two recommendation letters, with no military or hospital affiliations noted.

• Fully online graduate degree
• Specialized Talented and Gifted track
• No GRE required for admission
• 30 credit hours total program
• Designed for working teachers
• Flexible course scheduling
• Valid teaching license needed
• Two recommendation letters required

Simpson College's Master of Arts in Teaching is a hybrid graduate program ideal for bachelor's degree holders aiming to transition into secondary education in Iowa. It combines evening courses with a full-time student teaching semester, offering flexibility and multiple endorsement areas. This program does not require an entrance exam and includes a master's project, preparing candidates for licensure with a United Methodist-affiliated, military-friendly institution.

• Hybrid learning format
• Secondary teaching license
• Evening course options
• Multiple endorsement areas
• Master's project required

Upper Iowa University's online Master of Education in Talented and Gifted equips educators to identify and nurture high-potential K-12 students through advanced instructional strategies and leadership development. This flexible, affordable program at $342 per credit can be completed in about two years, offering both licensure and non-licensure options. As a master's level program, it does not require an entrance exam, focusing instead on practical skills for supporting gifted learners in diverse educational settings.

• 100% Online Delivery
• $342 per Credit Hour
• Two-Year Completion Path
• K-12 Talented and Gifted Focus
• Licensure and Non-Licensure Options