Best Master’s in Education Degree Programs in New Jersey

New Jersey, home to urban school systems and top-ranked public education, is facing growing teacher recruitment and retention challenges. With over 1.3 million K–12 students, the state continues to seek qualified educators, particularly in special education, STEM, and bilingual instruction. The New Jersey Department of Education reports ongoing teacher shortages in key subject areas, creating strong demand for licensed professionals.

Pursuing a Master’s in Education (M.Ed.) in New Jersey can open doors to career advancement, higher salaries, and licensure pathways. Whether you’re a current educator aiming for leadership or a career changer seeking certification, M.Ed. programs in the state offer online, hybrid, and in-person formats designed for busy professionals.

This guide highlights top-ranked programs, accelerated degree tracks, affordable options, licensure guidance, and employment opportunities across the Garden State.

New Jersey’s universities offer CAEP-accredited and regionally approved M.Ed. programs that blend academic rigor with real-world classroom application.

2026 Best Master's in Education Degree Programs in New Jersey

If you're looking for the best master's in education degree programs in New Jersey, you've come to the right place. At mastersineducation.org, we've carefully ranked top programs to help you find the perfect fit for your career goals. Our rankings are based on thorough research and data analysis, ensuring you get reliable information to make an informed decision. Learn more about how we create these rankings by visiting our methodology page: https://mastersineducation.org/rankings-methodology/
#1

William Paterson University of New Jersey

Wayne, NJ - Public 4-Year - wpunj.edu

Master's - Master of Education in Educational Leadership

Online Learning - Visit Website

William Paterson University's online Master of Education in Educational Leadership is a strategic 30-credit program tailored for ambitious educators seeking transformative leadership roles. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum emphasizes critical leadership competencies including organizational management, curriculum design, and inclusive leadership practices. With no GRE requirement and a total tuition of $15,982.50, the program enables rapid 12-month completion while aligning with National Educational Leadership Preparation standards. Practitioners benefit from continuous field experiences and expert faculty guidance, preparing them to drive meaningful educational change in diverse school environments.

  • 100% Online Program
  • 12-Month Completion Option
  • Total Tuition $15,982.50
  • No GRE Required
  • 30 Credit Hours
  • 3.0 Minimum Undergraduate GPA
  • Aligned with NELP Standards
  • Practitioners as Faculty
  • Continuous Field Experiences
  • Multiple Start Dates

Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching with a concentration in Secondary Education (Secondary Education)

Online Learning - Visit Website

William Paterson University's Master of Arts in Teaching in Secondary Education offers an immersive online pathway for aspiring educators to develop advanced pedagogical expertise. The CAEP-accredited 33-credit program cultivates innovative teaching strategies through comprehensive coursework and intensive practical experiences, including 50 hours of classroom observation and a year-long teaching residency. Designed to support New Jersey teacher certification, the curriculum prepares candidates to engage students across varied cultural and linguistic backgrounds, emphasizing socially conscious and technologically integrated instructional approaches.

  • Online CAEP-accredited program
  • 33 total credit hours
  • Total tuition $20,610.15
  • Flexible 18-month duration
  • 50 hours classroom observation
  • Year-long teaching residency
  • Supports NJ teacher certification
  • Content areas include multiple subjects

Master's - Master of Education in Educational Technology and Instructional Design

Online Learning - Visit Website

William Paterson University's online Master of Education in Educational Technology and Instructional Design empowers educators to revolutionize learning through cutting-edge digital strategies. This 30-credit program equips P-12 and higher education professionals with advanced technological pedagogical knowledge, enabling them to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. Completed flexibly in 12 months, the curriculum focuses on leveraging innovative technologies to transform educational experiences, making it ideal for forward-thinking educators seeking to drive technological innovation in academic settings.

  • 100% online program
  • 12-month completion time
  • 30 total credit hours
  • Flexible for working educators
  • Technology-focused curriculum

Master's - Master of Education in Special Education (Teacher of Students with Disabilities)

Online Learning - Visit Website

William Paterson University's online Master of Education in Special Education prepares dedicated professionals to support students with diverse learning needs. Aligned with Council for Exceptional Children guidelines, this comprehensive program offers a Teacher of Students with Disabilities endorsement through an accelerated 12-20 month curriculum. With a total tuition of $18,736.50 and flexible 7-week courses, the program develops advanced skills in individualized instruction, collaborative strategies, and inclusive classroom management, emphasizing practical approaches for supporting exceptional learners.

  • Online Master's Degree
  • 30 Total Credit Hours
  • 12-20 Months Duration
  • $18,736.50 Total Tuition
  • No Thesis Required
  • CAEP Accredited Program
  • Multiple Annual Start Dates
  • Flexible 7-Week Courses
  • Teacher of Students with Disabilities Endorsement
  • 3.0 GPA Requirement

Master's - MAT: Elementary Education

Campus Based - Visit Website

William Paterson University's Master of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education provides a comprehensive 33-credit pathway for K-6 educators seeking initial certification. The program cultivates advanced pedagogical skills through innovative coursework, emphasizing inclusive teaching approaches, educational technology integration, and cross-cultural perspectives. Candidates develop expertise across core subject areas, with a strong focus on literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies instruction. Extensive clinical practice experiences ensure graduates are well-prepared to create dynamic, responsive learning environments that meet diverse student needs.

  • 33-credit graduate program
  • K-6 Initial Certification
  • Inclusive teaching approaches
  • Technology integration focus
  • Clinical practice experiences
  • Cross-cultural perspectives
  • Comprehensive subject methods

Master's - Master of Education in Educational Leadership (With New Jersey Certifications) (New Jersey Certifications)

Online Learning - Visit Website

  • Online program with NJ certification
  • Total tuition $21,234.70
  • 12-month completion timeline
  • No GRE required
  • 34 total credit hours
  • Continuous internship experiences
  • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
  • Aligned with national leadership standards

Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching with a concentration in Secondary Education (Alternate Route) (Secondary Education (Alternate Route))

Online Learning - Visit Website

  • Online master's for secondary educators
  • 30 credit hour program
  • Total tuition $18,736.50
  • CAEP-accredited program
  • Content areas include multiple subjects
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Designed for working professionals
  • New Jersey certification pathway

Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching with a concentration in Elementary Education (Elementary Education)

Online Learning - Visit Website

  • Online program format.
  • Focus on Elementary Education.
  • Prepares for K-6 teaching.
  • Emphasizes inclusive classrooms.
  • Flexible for working professionals.
  • Comprehensive curriculum.
  • Practical teaching strategies.
  • Diverse learning environments.
  • Curriculum development focus.
  • Real-world application emphasis.
Show 7 More Programs ˅
#2

Rutgers University

New Brunswick, NJ - Public 4-Year - newbrunswick.rutgers.edu

Master's - Ed.M. in Special Education

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Rutgers University-New Brunswick's Ed.M. in Special Education is a 36-credit hybrid program for certified teachers, offering advanced training in disabilities and gifted education. It focuses on assessment, instructional strategies, and curriculum development, preparing graduates for diverse educational roles. The program includes a portfolio requirement and allows completion in about two years. As a master's-level program, it may require an entrance exam, though none is specified in the provided data.

  • 36 total graduate credits
  • Hybrid program format
  • 21 special education core credits
  • 15 gifted education credits
  • New Jersey certification pathway
  • 2-year typical completion time
  • Portfolio required component
  • Multiple entry terms available
  • 5-year program completion window

Master's - Ed.M. with Certification in Elementary Education (K-6)

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Ed.M. with Elementary Education (K-6) Certification at Rutgers University-New Brunswick is a campus-based, 63-credit master's program for aspiring teachers. It emphasizes child development, diverse learning environments, and educational equity, leading to immediate certification and employment. Entrance exams such as the Praxis Core are required, as noted in the program highlights.

  • Two-year master's degree program
  • 63 total graduate credits
  • K-6 teacher certification
  • Emphasizes diverse learning environments
  • Research-driven curriculum
  • Prepares for immediate school employment
  • Minimum 2.75 GPA required
  • Praxis Core test requirement
  • Multiple standardized test options
  • Five-year program completion window

Master's - Ed.M. in Special Education with Teacher of Students with Disabilities Certification and Gifted Education GSE Certificate (Gifted Education)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

This Ed.M. in Special Education at Rutgers University-New Brunswick, with a concentration in Gifted Education, is a 36-credit hybrid program. It combines special education and gifted instruction, offering certifications for students with disabilities and gifted education. Graduates gain expertise in assessment and collaborative teaching, preparing for roles in various settings. As a master's program, an entrance exam may be required, but it is not explicitly stated.

  • Hybrid program format
  • 36 total graduate credits
  • Teacher of Students with Disabilities Certification
  • Gifted Education Certificate included
  • Two-year typical completion time
  • 21 credits special education core
  • 15 credits gifted education core
  • Requires NJ instructional certificate
  • Portfolio artifact documentation
  • Five-year program completion window

Master's - Ed.M. in Special Education with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Sequence (Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA))

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Rutgers University-New Brunswick's Ed.M. in Special Education with an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) concentration is a hybrid program focused on behavioral intervention and BCBA exam preparation. It includes 36 credits covering ABA principles and special education core, designed for certified teachers. Graduates can work in special education and behavioral consultation. An entrance exam might be necessary for this master's program, though not specified.

  • 36 Total Graduate Credits
  • Hybrid Program Format
  • BCBA Exam Preparation
  • 2-Year Typical Completion Time
  • Expert Faculty Guidance
  • Prepares for Special Education Roles
  • Non-Certification Program
  • 18 Credits ABA Core Courses
  • 15 Credits Special Education Core

Master's - Ed.M. in Special Education with Certification for Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultant (Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultant)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Ed.M. in Special Education with Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultant Certification at Rutgers University-New Brunswick is a hybrid program for experienced teachers. It develops skills in assessment, intervention design, and special education law over 36 credits, leading to LDT-C certification. The program requires three years of teaching experience. As a master's-level offering, an entrance exam could be required, but it is not mentioned.

  • 36 total graduate credits
  • Hybrid program format
  • Requires 3 years teaching experience
  • LDT-C Educational Services Certification
  • Two-year typical completion time
  • Specialized assessment skills training
  • Multiple entry terms available
Show 4 More Programs ˅
#3

The College of New Jersey

Ewing, NJ - Public 4-Year - tcnj.edu

Master's - Teaching English as a Second Language, MEd

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The College of New Jersey's Master of Education in Teaching English as a Second Language is a 30-credit hybrid program preparing educators for multilingual learners through advanced linguistic and cultural strategies. It offers flexible full-time or part-time options over 1.5-3 years, costing $1,129.40 per credit, and leads to New Jersey ESL certification. Ideal for current teachers seeking international opportunities, it requires a bachelor's degree with liberal arts coursework. No entrance exam is specified for this master's level program.

  • 30-credit hybrid graduate program
  • ESL and bilingual endorsements
  • $1,129.40 per credit
  • 1.5-2 years full-time
  • Weekday evening classes
  • K-12 and international teaching
  • Develops cultural awareness
  • Curriculum development focus
  • Advanced language assessment skills

Master's - Master of Education

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

This Master of Education program at The College of New Jersey prepares educators for global teaching careers with a 25-30 credit hybrid format, featuring international experiences like summer courses in Portugal. It emphasizes instructional skills, learning theories, and professional competencies. Applicants need a bachelor's degree, strong recommendations, and a personal essay. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

  • Hybrid graduate education program
  • 25-30 credit curriculum
  • International learning opportunities
  • Global professional preparation
  • Summer courses in Portugal
  • Develops advanced teaching skills
  • Recognized by international schools

Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Special Education and Elementary Education)

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Master of Arts in Teaching with a concentration in Special Education and Elementary Education at The College of New Jersey is a 39-credit campus-based program offering dual certification for non-teaching bachelor's degree holders. It focuses on contemporary methodologies for diverse student needs, with tuition at $1,129.40 per credit. Admission requires GRE or Praxis Core scores, along with specific coursework in core subjects. This master's level program mandates an entrance exam.

  • Dual certification in Special Education and Elementary Education.
  • 39-credit fully accredited program.
  • Face-to-face, hybrid, and off-campus learning.
  • Tuition: $1,129.40 per credit.
  • Admission requires GRE or Praxis Core scores.
  • Bachelor's degree in non-teaching field required.
  • Focus on contemporary instructional methodologies.
  • Prepares for teaching students with diverse needs.
  • Financial aid and assistantship options available.
  • Strong alumni and professional networks.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4

Rider University

Lawrenceville, NJ - Private 4-year - rider.edu

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Rider University's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) is a 30-credit hybrid graduate program for educators with initial certification, focusing on advanced curriculum design, inclusive practices, and student assessment. It supports various K-12 certifications and requires a minimum 3.0 GPA. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this master's-level program.

  • 30-credit graduate degree
  • Multiple teaching certification paths
  • Hybrid program format
  • Initial certification required
  • Diverse curriculum focus
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement

Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) (Comprehensive Business (K-12))

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Rider University's MAT with a concentration in Comprehensive Business (K-12) is a 30-credit hybrid program designed for certified teachers to deepen expertise in business education through innovative curriculum and inclusive strategies. It emphasizes student assessment and professional development, with no entrance exam specified for admission.

  • 30-credit hybrid program.
  • Concentration in Comprehensive Business (K-12).
  • Focus on innovative curriculum design.
  • Emphasizes inclusive practices.
  • Includes student learning assessment.
  • Requires initial teacher certification.
  • Combines online and on-campus learning.
  • Prepares for effective business education.
  • Admission requires bachelor's degree.
  • Enhances professional knowledge.

Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) (Early Childhood Teacher (Preschool - Grade 3))

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Rider University's MAT with an Early Childhood Teacher (Preschool-Grade 3) concentration is a 30-credit hybrid program for educators with initial certification, focusing on cutting-edge curriculum design, inclusive teaching, and assessment skills. It requires a 3.0 GPA and does not specify an entrance exam for this master's-level offering.

  • 30-credit graduate degree
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Initial certification required
  • Multiple certification areas
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Early Childhood concentration available
  • Innovative curriculum design focus
  • Inclusive teaching practices
  • Advanced student assessment skills
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#5

Saint Peter's University

Jersey City, NJ - Private 4-year - saintpeters.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Education: Pre-School-3

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Saint Peter's University offers a Master of Arts in Education focusing on Pre-School through Grade 3, a 36-credit hybrid program that leads to initial P-3 certification. It emphasizes developmentally appropriate practices, child psychology, technology integration, and special needs education, including clinical practice. Designed for certified and aspiring educators, this program does not require an entrance exam for admission.

  • 36-credit graduate program
  • Leads to P-3 certification
  • Developmentally focused curriculum
  • Clinical practice included
  • Two clinical practice courses
  • Courses in child psychology
  • Technology integration focus
  • Research-based instruction
  • Covers special needs education
  • Home-school communication strategies

Master's - Master of Arts in Education (Educational Technology)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Saint Peter's University provides a fully online Master of Arts in Education with a concentration in Educational Technology, a 33-credit program for PK-12 and higher education professionals. It focuses on integrating technology, designing digital curricula, and using learning management systems, with flexible scheduling. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

  • Fully online 33-credit program
  • PK-12 and Higher Education focus
  • Minimal technical skills required
  • Flexible semester scheduling
  • Technology integration curriculum
  • Courses for beginners/experienced users
  • Learn learning management systems
  • Design digital lesson plans
  • Web 2.0 tools training

Master's - Master of Arts in Education (Higher Education)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Saint Peter's University's Master of Arts in Education with a Higher Education concentration is a hybrid program offering evening and online courses for working professionals. It prepares graduates for leadership roles in post-secondary education through training in management, student development, and policy. This master's program does not require an entrance exam for admission.

  • Hybrid course delivery format
  • Multiple education concentration options
  • Evening and flexible course times
  • Jesuit educational perspective
  • Professional career advancement
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#6

New Jersey City University

Jersey City, NJ - Public 4-Year - njcu.edu

Master's - Elementary Education—Teacher Certification, M.A.T.

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

New Jersey City University's Master of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education is a hybrid program that prepares liberal arts graduates for K-6 teacher certification through a fully online curriculum with in-person clinical practice. It emphasizes technology integration, culturally responsive teaching, and diverse classroom management, requiring 36 credits and no entrance exam, though Praxis scores are needed for admission. This program offers advanced standing and flexibility for full- or part-time study, focusing on urban education perspectives.

  • Fully online with clinical practice
  • K-6 Teacher Certification
  • Advanced Standing endorsement
  • Flexible full/part-time options
  • Technology integration focus
  • Culturally responsive teaching
  • 36 total credit program
  • Comprehensive admission requirements
  • Urban education perspective

Master's - Secondary Education—Teacher Certification, M.A.T.

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Master of Arts in Teaching in Secondary Education at New Jersey City University is a hybrid program leading to New Jersey teaching certification, blending online coursework with clinical practice. It requires a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and Praxis CORE or equivalent scores, with no additional entrance exam. Focused on diverse learner needs, technology integration, and educational trends, the 36-credit program includes full-time student teaching and prepares educators for secondary classrooms with an urban and culturally responsive approach.

  • Hybrid program format.
  • Prepares for NJ teaching certification.
  • Requires 3.0 undergraduate GPA.
  • Praxis CORE or equivalent needed.
  • Focuses on diverse learner needs.
  • Integrates technology in teaching.
  • Includes full-time student teaching.
  • Offers flexibility for students.
  • Covers various subject areas.
  • Emphasizes educational trends.

Master's - Special Education—Special Education with NPTNJ Program, M.A.T.

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

New Jersey City University's Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education with the NPTNJ Program is a 36-credit hybrid offering that qualifies graduates for a Teacher of Students with Disabilities endorsement. Admission demands a 3.0 GPA and an existing NJ standard instructional certificate, with no entrance exam required. The program combines online and on-campus learning to equip educators for supporting students with disabilities, emphasizing flexibility and effective teaching strategies in special education contexts.

  • 36-credit program.
  • Hybrid learning format.
  • TOSD endorsement eligibility.
  • 3.0 GPA required.
  • NJ standard certificate needed.
  • Prepares for special education.
  • Flexible online and campus.
  • Focus on disabilities education.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#7

Drew University

Madison, NJ - Private 4-year - drew.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Drew University's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) is a 36-credit hybrid program accredited by CAEP, preparing educators for diverse classrooms through a blend of coursework and clinical field experience. It can be completed in one or two years, offering certifications in subjects like English, math, science, social studies, world languages, and arts, with dual-degree and endorsement options including special education and ESL. The program requires an entrance exam, such as the Praxis, as indicated for admission.

  • 36-credit MAT program
  • Elementary and secondary tracks
  • CAEP accredited program
  • One or two-year completion options
  • Clinical field experience included
  • Multiple subject area certifications
  • Dual endorsement possibilities
  • Hybrid learning environment
  • Professional network development

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Focusing on Elementary Education, Drew University's MAT program is a CAEP-accredited hybrid offering that leads to K-6 certification. It integrates clinical-rich experiences and flexible one or two-year tracks, designed to develop skills for supporting diverse learners in elementary settings. An entrance exam is required for admission, based on program standards.

  • Elementary Education concentration
  • CAEP accredited program
  • Clinical-rich learning experience
  • Flexible one or two-year tracks
  • Certification for K-6 teaching

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Drew University's MAT with a Secondary Education concentration prepares candidates for certification in subjects like English, math, science, social studies, world languages, and arts through a hybrid program. It requires a 3.0 GPA and passing Praxis scores for admission, includes clinical coursework, and can be completed in one or two years with options for dual endorsements and degrees.

  • CAEP accredited
  • Secondary education
  • 1 or 2 year tracks
  • Praxis scores required
  • 3.0 GPA required
  • Clinically rich coursework
  • Urban & suburban settings
  • Faculty mentors
  • Dual degree option
  • Dual endorsements available
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#8

Georgian Court University

Lakewood, NJ - Private 4-year - georgian.edu

Master's - Early Childhood Endorsement & M.Ed. Option

Campus Based - Visit Website

Georgian Court University's Master of Education in Early Childhood Education is a 33-credit campus-based program that prepares educators for preschool through Grade 3, emphasizing inclusive teaching strategies and requiring a valid New Jersey instructional certificate and a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. As a master's level program, it may require an entrance exam, but this is not explicitly stated in the provided data.

  • Preschool through Grade 3 endorsement
  • 24-credit Early Childhood program
  • Additional 9 credits for M.Ed.
  • Requires valid NJ instructional certificate
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Includes applied thesis requirements
  • Focuses on inclusive education strategies

Master's - Master of Education (Teacher of Students with Disabilities)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Georgian Court University offers an online Master of Education with a concentration in Teacher of Students with Disabilities, a 21-credit endorsement program that equips certified educators with skills for inclusive learning environments and special education, meeting state and national standards. For this master's level program, an entrance exam may be required, though it is not specified in the data.

  • 21-credit graduate endorsement program
  • Meets New Jersey teaching standards
  • Specialization in disabilities education
  • Clinical experience requirements
  • Aligned with national education standards
  • Pathway to M.Ed. degree
  • Focuses on inclusive classroom strategies

Master's - Master of Education (Autism Spectrum Disorders)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Georgian Court University's online Master of Education in Autism Spectrum Disorders provides specialized training for educators and professionals, focusing on intervention techniques and social communication for students with autism, costing $820 per credit and including clinical experience. As a master's program, an entrance exam might be necessary, but it is not mentioned in the provided information.

  • Online Flexible Program
  • $820 per credit cost
  • 15-credit Certificate Option
  • Requires 10 hours clinical experience
  • Courses cover autism strategies
  • Suitable for teachers/professionals
  • Comprehensive intervention training

Master's - Master of Education (Multisensory Literacy with Teacher of Students with Disabilities Certification)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Georgian Court University's online Master of Education in Multisensory Literacy with Teacher of Students with Disabilities Certification is a 31-credit program that grants Wilson Level 1 Dyslexia credentials and New Jersey certification, designed for certified P-3 or elementary teachers at $820 per credit. For this master's level offering, an entrance exam could be required, though it is not detailed in the data.

  • 31-credit master's program
  • Wilson Level 1 Dyslexia credentials
  • NJ Teacher of Students with Disabilities certification
  • Requires standard P-3 or elementary certification
  • $820 per credit
  • Online flexible learning
  • 10-15 hours clinical experience
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#9

Seton Hall University

South Orange, NJ - Private 4-year - shu.edu

Master's - M.A.E. in K-12 Education Leadership, Management and Policy

Online Learning - Visit Website

Seton Hall University's online M.A.E. in K-12 Education Leadership, Management and Policy is a CAEP-accredited program designed for educators seeking administrative roles. This accelerated five-semester format allows working professionals to earn New Jersey supervisor and principal certifications while focusing on equitable educational improvement. With 30 credit hours, a student-centered cohort model, and generous scholarships, the program emphasizes leadership development without requiring an entrance exam. It is military-friendly and supported by accomplished faculty and 1:1 academic advising.

  • Fully online CAEP-accredited program
  • Five-semester accelerated format
  • Supervisor and principal certification
  • 30 total credit hours
  • Working professionals welcomed
  • 1:1 academic advising
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Scholarships up to 50% reduction
  • Leadership-focused coursework
#10

Caldwell University

Caldwell, NJ - Private 4-year - caldwell.edu

Master's - M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction

Campus Based - Visit Website

Caldwell University's M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction is a comprehensive program designed for educators seeking advanced training. As a 5-year combined B.A./M.A. pathway, it allows students to specialize in secondary or elementary education with options in subjects like English, Math, Science, Social Studies, or World Languages. The program includes New Jersey teacher certification, a 3.50 GPA admission requirement, and a curriculum focused on pedagogical skills, technology integration, and action research. Small class sizes enhance learning, preparing graduates for roles such as Curriculum Director. An entrance exam may be required, as standardized test scores are part of the admission criteria.

  • 5-year BA/MA program
  • NJ teacher certification
  • Multiple content area options
  • 3.50 GPA requirement
  • Small class sizes
  • Graduate-level curriculum courses
  • Technology integration focus
  • Action research component
*Citation: National Center for Education Statistics. (2024). IPEDS Data Center. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Learn more about our methodology

Fastest M.Ed. Programs in New Jersey

Educators looking to earn a degree quickly can explore accelerated M.Ed. programs across New Jersey institutions.

SchoolSpecialtyProgram LengthFormat
Montclair State Univ.Inclusive Education12–16 monthsOnline
Rowan UniversityTeacher Leadership12–18 monthsHybrid
Kean UniversityReading Specialization12–18 monthsOnline
TCNJElementary Education16 monthsCampus
Stockton UniversityInstructional Technology12–18 monthsOnline
NJCUEducational Technology12–16 monthsOnline

Cheapest M.Ed. Programs in New Jersey

Several New Jersey schools offer affordable M.Ed. programs designed to provide strong value for cost-conscious students.

SchoolSpecialtyTuition RangeFormat
Kean UniversityBilingual/Bicultural Ed.$10,500–$12,500Hybrid
NJCUEducational Technology$11,000–$13,000Online
Rowan UniversityTeacher Leadership$12,000–$14,000Online
Montclair State Univ.Curriculum & Instruction$13,000–$15,000Online
Stockton UniversityInstructional Tech$12,500–$14,000Online
Saint Peter’s Univ.Educational Leadership$11,500–$13,500Hybrid

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

New Jersey provides alternate route licensure through M.Ed. programs that meet certification requirements set by the NJDOE.

To complete the teaching certification process, students generally must:

  • Complete a state-approved M.Ed. program
  • Pass Praxis Core and Praxis Subject Assessments
  • Complete student teaching or internship
  • Submit a background check and fingerprinting
  • Apply via the NJEdCert system

Are Online Master’s in Education Programs Available in New Jersey?

Yes— online master’s in education programs are available throughout New Jersey, offering flexibility for full-time educators and career changers.

Pros:

  • Learn at your own pace from home
  • Keep working while studying
  • Accessible statewide

Cons:

  • Student teaching may require in-person hours
  • Some programs include synchronous components
  • Less peer networking than in-person formats

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

Admissions criteria may vary, but most schools ask for:

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Minimum GPA of 2.75–3.0
  • Personal statement or goals essay
  • 2–3 letters of recommendation
  • Résumé or teaching experience
  • Praxis test scores (if required for licensure)

Popular Master’s in Education Degree Specialties in New Jersey

New Jersey universities offer a variety of M.Ed. specializations for today’s educators:

Top Employers and School Districts for M.Ed. Graduates in New Jersey

New Jersey M.Ed. graduates go on to work in public school systems, charter schools, colleges, and nonprofit organizations. Top employers include:

  • Newark Public Schools
  • Jersey City Public Schools
  • Paterson Public Schools
  • New Jersey Department of Education
  • Rutgers University System
  • KIPP New Jersey Charter Schools

Explore teacher salary trends

Take the Next Step

Whether driven by licensure, leadership, or specialization, earning your Master’s in Education in New Jersey can help you make a greater impact in classrooms and communities. With flexible formats, accredited programs, and opportunities to serve high-need districts, now is the time to take your career to the next level.

Explore programs that align with your goals and start building your future as an educator today.

Sources

  1. New Jersey Department of Education – Educator Certification
  2. Rutgers University – Graduate School of Education
  3. The College of New Jersey – M.Ed. Programs
  4. Saint Peter’s University – Graduate Studies
  5. Praxis – New Jersey Testing Requirements

Related Articles

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.

View all articles

[tr_author_box]