Best Master’s in Education Degree Programs in Rhode Island
Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the nation, but its commitment to public schooling looms large. Roughly 140,000 K–12 students attend its public schools, yet the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) continues to report staffing gaps, especially in special education, multilingual learner (MLL) services such as TESOL, and secondary STEM education courses. Districts in Providence, Pawtucket, and the South County region all cite a growing need for master‑prepared, license‑holding educators who can tackle learning loss and bilingual equity.
For classroom teachers, career changers, and aspiring leaders, earning a Master’s in Education (M.Ed.) in Rhode Island can lead to full certification, salary bumps under the statewide contract, and opportunities to guide instructional reform. Universities across the Ocean State deliver graduate coursework in online, hybrid, weekend, and evening formats—so educators in Westerly or Woonsocket can advance without crossing state lines.
Below, you’ll find Rhode Island’s leading M.Ed. programs plus essential information on accelerated options, cost‑savvy tuition, licensure routes, online study, and the districts most eager to hire advanced‑degree educators.

Table of Contents
All programs listed are regionally accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE), and most teacher‑prep units hold CAEP approval, ensuring rigorous coursework and licensure alignment.
2026 Best Master's in Education Degree Programs in Rhode Island
Rhode Island College
Providence, RI - Public 4-Year - ric.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Secondary Education (English Pedagogy)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Rhode Island College's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Secondary Education with English Pedagogy concentration offers an intensive pathway for aspiring high school English teachers. Tailored for bachelor's degree holders in English, this program provides comprehensive teacher certification for grades 9-12. Students can expand their professional repertoire by pursuing additional endorsements in ESL or special education. With 89% of faculty holding terminal degrees and over 70% of students receiving financial aid, the program ensures high-quality, accessible education. Graduates emerge as versatile, skilled educators prepared to inspire and transform secondary English classrooms.
- Full teacher certification grades 9-12
- English or math background recommended
- Additional endorsement options
- 89% faculty hold terminal degrees
- Over 70% students receive financial aid
- Campus-based professional program
- Taught by experienced educators
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education (Early Childhood Special Education)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Rhode Island College's Master of Education in Special Education, focusing on Early Childhood Special Education, addresses critical educational workforce needs. Designed for certified teachers and career changers, this program equips professionals with advanced strategies for supporting students with diverse learning requirements. The curriculum emphasizes inclusive, adaptive learning environments and provides multiple concentration options. With a reputation for high-quality graduate education and flexible scheduling for working educators, the program prepares graduates to make significant impacts in specialized educational settings and address professional development opportunities.
- Early Childhood Special Education Focus
- Multiple Concentration Options
- High Faculty Degree Attainment
- Career Advancement Opportunities
- Addressing High-Need Educational Areas
- Flexible for Working Educators
- Urban Multicultural Specialization Available
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Secondary Education (Mathematics Pedagogy)
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Mathematics Pedagogy concentration in Rhode Island College's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) prepares mathematics graduates for transformative secondary education careers. Designed for individuals holding bachelor's degrees in mathematics, this program provides full certification to teach grades 9-12 in Rhode Island. Emphasizing practical teaching strategies, curriculum development, and educational research, students gain comprehensive skills to inspire high school mathematics learners. With 89% of faculty holding terminal degrees and extensive financial aid opportunities, the program offers an affordable and rigorous pathway for aspiring mathematics educators.
- Campus-based program.
- Focus on Mathematics Pedagogy.
- Prepares for grades 9-12 teaching.
- Full certification in Rhode Island.
- Bachelor's degree required.
- Emphasizes practical teaching strategies.
- Curriculum development included.
- Educational research component.
- Financial aid opportunities available.
- Designed for career changers.
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Elementary Education
Campus Based - Visit Website
Rhode Island College's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Elementary Education offers an accelerated, comprehensive pathway for liberal arts graduates seeking teaching certification. This one-year program blends educational theories with practical classroom experiences, guided by expert faculty. Designed to prepare educators for the dynamic demands of modern elementary classrooms, the program ensures direct interaction with instructors and provides hands-on learning opportunities. With a focus on developing skilled, adaptable teachers, graduates are equipped to create engaging, innovative learning environments for young students.
- One-year certification pathway.
- Campus-based program.
- Expert faculty guidance.
- Real-life classroom experiences.
- Broad-based liberal arts prerequisite.
- Focus on educational theories.
- Best practices in teaching.
- Eligibility for elementary teaching certification.
- Direct interaction with faculty.
- Preparation for today’s classroom demands.
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Music Education
Campus Based - Visit Website
Rhode Island College's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Music Education provides a comprehensive program for musicians transitioning into K-12 teaching. Tailored for bachelor's degree holders in music, this certification pathway integrates teaching methods, classroom research, and deep exploration of music education's history, philosophy, and psychology. Through extensive clinical placements and a full-semester student teaching experience, graduates develop advanced pedagogical skills. With generous financial aid, terminal-degree faculty, and a commitment to inspiring future musicians, the program offers an accessible route to a fulfilling music education career.
- Campus-based program.
- Focus on K-12 teaching methods.
- Includes classroom research.
- Clinical experiences in public schools.
- Semester of full-time student teaching.
- Designed for BA in music holders.
- Prepares for teaching licensure.
- 89% faculty hold terminal degrees.
- Over $300M in campus upgrades.
- 70% students receive financial aid.
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Art Education
Campus Based - Visit Website
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for pre-K-12 teaching certification.
- Focus on art education theory.
- Curriculum development emphasis.
- Affordable with financial aid.
- Over 70% receive financial aid.
- 89% faculty hold terminal degrees.
- Personalized education approach.
- Prepares for 21st-century teaching challenges.
- For art studio or history graduates.
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education (Elementary Special Education)
Campus Based - Visit Website
- Flexible concentration options
- High faculty terminal degree percentage
- Career advancement focused
- Urban multicultural perspective
- Addressing teacher shortage areas
- Multiple special education pathways
- Passionate educator preparation
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education (Secondary Special Education)
Campus Based - Visit Website
- Secondary Special Education Concentration
- High-demand teaching field
- Multiple concentration options
- Career advancement opportunity
- Serving high-need educational areas
- Faculty with terminal degrees
- Financial aid opportunities
- Urban multicultural focus
Providence College
Providence, RI - Private 4-year - providence.edu
Master's - Master of Education in School Leadership
Campus Based - Visit Website
Providence College's Master of Education in School Leadership is a 36-credit on-campus program designed for educators aiming for administrative roles like principals and superintendents. It focuses on curriculum design, school law, finance, and instructional leadership, requiring a 3.0 GPA and Praxis School Leaders Licensure. The program includes a two-semester internship and offers flexible start dates, preparing graduates for PK-12 building administrator certification. No entrance exam is specified for this master's level program.
- 36 credit hours total
- On-campus program delivery
- Multiple start dates yearly
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Praxis School Leaders Licensure
- Two-semester internship experience
- PK-12 Building Administrator certification
- Leadership career preparation
- Course sequence developmental approach
Master's - Master of Education in Higher Education
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Education in Higher Education at Providence College is a 36-credit on-campus program that prepares professionals for careers in college administration through theoretical foundations and practical experiences, including two 150-hour internships. It covers advising, career education, and higher education law, enhancing employability in diverse settings. No entrance exam is mentioned for this master's level program.
- 30 credits coursework + internships
- On-campus program delivery
- Two 150-hour field experiences
- Diverse career preparation
- Comprehensive administrative training
- Practical internship opportunities
- Multiple career pathway options
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education with Dyslexia Credential (Dyslexia)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Providence College's Master of Education in Special Education with a Dyslexia concentration is a 34-credit hybrid program for certified teachers, focusing on the Wilson Reading System and multisensory literacy interventions. It provides training in diagnosing and supporting students with language-based learning disabilities, leading to a Wilson Dyslexia Practitioner credential. No entrance exam is specified for this master's level program.
- Hybrid program format
- Wilson Reading System certification
- 34 total credit hours
- Designed for certified teachers
- Multisensory literacy intervention
- Science of Reading courses
- Full-time or part-time options
- Practicum with real students
- Evidence-based instructional methods
University of Rhode Island
Kingston, RI - Public 4-Year - web.uri.edu
Master's - M.A. in Education with Special Education Specialization
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Rhode Island offers a hybrid M.A. in Education with a Special Education Specialization, designed to combat the national teacher shortage. This program prepares educators to support students with disabilities through culturally competent and equity-focused methods, emphasizing inclusive pedagogy and evidence-based strategies. It aligns with professional standards, fostering justice-oriented learning environments. As a master's level program, it does not require an entrance exam, focusing instead on developing advanced skills in assessment and instruction for diverse populations.
- Addresses national teacher shortage
- Hybrid program delivery
- Culturally-competent approach
- Aligned with professional standards
- Focuses on inclusive education
- Evidence-based instructional strategies
- Justice-oriented pedagogical methods
- Supports students with disabilities
Johnson & Wales University-Online
Providence, RI - Private 4-year - online.jwu.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Elementary/Elementary Special Education)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson & Wales University-Online's Master of Arts in Teaching with a concentration in Elementary/Elementary Special Education prepares educators through a cohort-based model, integrating field experiences and research-based theories. The program focuses on the Science of Reading and classroom management, leading to dual content area state licensure. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.
- Cohort-based learning model
- Field-based classroom experiences
- State licensure preparation
- Practitioner faculty networking
- Dual content area certification
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Business/Secondary Special Education)
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Arts in Teaching with a Business/Secondary Special Education concentration at Johnson & Wales University-Online combines rigorous coursework with hands-on fieldwork, emphasizing the Science of Reading to meet Rhode Island's requirements. Graduates gain dual licensure advantages and learn from experienced practitioners. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.
- Cohort model for peer support.
- Hands-on fieldwork in public schools.
- Dual content area licensure advantage.
- Meets Rhode Island Right to Read Act.
- Experienced practitioner faculty.
- Focus on Science of Reading.
- Prepares for state teaching licensure.
- Business/Secondary Special Education concentration.
- Rigorous coursework with practical application.
- Networking opportunities with educators.
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Culinary Arts Education)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson & Wales University-Online offers a Master of Arts in Teaching concentration in Culinary Arts Education, using a cohort model for field-based learning and practical teaching strategies. The program prepares graduates for state licensure in culinary education environments. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.
- Cohort-based learning model
- Field-based experiential learning
- Dual content area licensure
- Practitioner faculty network
- Rhode Island state licensure preparation
Brown University
Providence, RI - Private 4-year - brown.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching
Campus Based - Visit Website
Brown University's Master of Arts in Teaching is a one-year on-campus program that prepares aspiring secondary educators through rigorous academic training and immersive classroom experiences. It focuses on disciplines like English, Math, Social Studies, and Science, emphasizing critical reflection, social contexts, and practical strategies for diverse communities. With a 100% pass rate, no GRE requirement, and options for certification in Rhode Island, graduates are equipped for impactful teaching with a commitment to equity.
- One-year on-campus program
- No GRE requirements
- Multiple secondary teaching disciplines
- Full-year teaching practicum
- Certification in Rhode Island
- Mentorship and personalized coaching
- Merit and need-based scholarships
- Three recommendations required
- Teaching experience not mandatory
- Summer intensive teaching experience
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Secondary English)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Brown University's Master of Arts in Teaching with a concentration in Secondary English is a one-year on-campus program designed for aspiring educators. It integrates intensive coursework with hands-on teaching experiences from day one, supported by personalized coaching and mentorship. Focused on culturally responsive education and disciplinary rigor, the program requires a bachelor's degree in the content area, offers scholarships, and leads to Rhode Island certification with no GRE exam needed.
- One-year program.
- On-campus experience.
- Concentration in Secondary English.
- Intensive coursework.
- Immersive teaching experiences.
- Personalized coaching.
- Culturally responsive education.
- Hands-on experience from day one.
- Supported by mentor teachers.
- Integration of theory and practice.
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Secondary Math)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Brown University's Master of Arts in Teaching in Secondary Math is a one-year on-campus program tailored for passionate educators, blending academic excellence with immersive teaching through residency placements and personalized coaching. It develops critical pedagogical skills for culturally responsive teaching in diverse environments, requires no prior experience or GRE exam, and provides Rhode Island certification with potential interstate reciprocity.
- One-year on-campus program
- No teaching experience required
- Full-year practicum included
- Rhode Island certification path
- Immersive teaching experiences
- Personalized coaching approach
- Summer teaching methods intensive
- Multilingual learner endorsement
Rhode Island School of Design
Providence, RI - Private 4-year - risd.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Art)
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Arts in Teaching with a concentration in Art at Rhode Island School of Design is a one-year, campus-based program for artists and designers pursuing K-12 art teacher certification. It integrates theoretical knowledge with practical classroom experiences, emphasizing innovative and socially conscious art education. Students engage in hands-on teaching in Rhode Island schools, developing culturally responsive pedagogy. The program offers certification reciprocity in over 44 states, preparing graduates to inspire through visual creativity. As a master's level program, it does not require an entrance exam.
- One-year intensive teacher prep
- K-12 art teacher certification
- Classroom teaching experiences
- Culturally responsive pedagogy
- State certification reciprocity
Johnson & Wales University-Providence
Providence, RI - Private 4-year - jwu.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Elementary Education/Elementary Special Education)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson & Wales University-Providence offers a Master of Arts in Teaching with a concentration in Elementary Education/Elementary Special Education, preparing educators for K-12 classrooms. This campus-based program includes cohort-based learning, extensive field experiences, and specialized coursework in literacy, mathematics, science, and special education, culminating in a two-part student teaching component. It focuses on developing pedagogical skills to support diverse learners and prepare for state certification. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and passing content exams; no entrance exam like GRE is mentioned as required.
- Cohort-based learning model
- Extensive classroom field experiences
- Specialized elementary education focus
- Prepare for state certification
- Two-part student teaching experience
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Business Education/Secondary Special Education)
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Arts in Teaching at Johnson & Wales University-Providence specializes in Business Education/Secondary Special Education, designed for secondary school educators. This campus program emphasizes effective communication, content mastery, and the use of research and assessment data, with field-based experiences and a student-teaching component. It requires a 3.0 GPA and prepares for Rhode Island licensure. Admission is based on a bachelor's degree; no entrance exam is specified as required.
- Campus-based program.
- Concentration in Business Education/Secondary Special Education.
- Requires a program GPA of 3.0 or better.
- Includes student-teaching experience.
- Prepares for Rhode Island Department of Education licensure.
- Focus on effective communication and content understanding.
- Emphasizes research and assessment data use.
- Field-based experiences enhance learning.
- Professional growth and student achievement improvement.
- Guidance from experienced educators.
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Culinary Arts Education)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson & Wales University-Providence's Master of Arts in Teaching with a Culinary Arts Education concentration prepares graduates for certification in K-12 and college culinary teaching. The program blends academic rigor with hands-on experiences, focusing on lesson design, classroom management, and culinary instructional strategies. It includes field-based learning and culminates in student teaching or a capstone project. Admission requires a bachelor's degree; no entrance exam is mentioned as necessary.
- Culinary Arts Education concentration.
- Hands-on teaching experiences.
- Field-based learning required.
- Prepares for K-12 and college teaching.
- Combines academic and practical coursework.
- Emphasizes culinary instructional strategies.
- Experience-based learning approach.
- Requires bachelor's degree for admission.
- Culminates in student teaching or capstone.
- Focuses on lesson plan design and delivery.

Learn more about our methodology
Fastest M.Ed. Programs in Rhode Island
Educators on preliminary certificates—or veterans aiming for a quick salary jump—often need graduate credentials fast. Rhode Island universities have launched cohort‑based pathways that use eight‑week online sessions, year‑round calendars, and job‑embedded practica so you can complete a master’s in as little as 12 months.
| School | Specialty | Program Length | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island College | ESL Education | 12 months | Online |
| University of Rhode Island | Reading Education | 12–16 months | Hybrid |
| Salve Regina University | Administration | 12–18 months | Online/Evening |
| Roger Williams University | STEM Education | 16 months | Online |
| Brown University | Urban Teaching | 16–18 months | Hybrid |
| Johnson & Wales University | Educational Leadership | 18 months | Online |
Explore additional rapid‑completion programs. Our national roundup of quick M.Ed. programs highlights more one‑year and 18‑month options.
Cheapest M.Ed. Programs in Rhode Island
Rhode Island’s public institutions keep tuition competitive, and several private schools lock in online rates around $450 per credit. Combine that with the state’s Promise Scholarship for graduate study, and these budget‑friendly master’s degrees offer excellent value.
| School | Specialty | Tuition Range | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island College | Special Education | $10,000–$12,000 | Online |
| University of Rhode Island | Curriculum & Instruction | $11,000–$13,000 | Hybrid |
| Roger Williams University | Digital Literacy | $11,500–$13,500 | Online |
| Salve Regina University | Literacy Education | $12,000–$14,000 | Online |
| Johnson & Wales University | Administration | $11,000–$13,000 | Online |
| Providence College | Urban Education | $12,000–$14,000 | Hybrid |
Need more low‑cost picks? See our guide to affordable master’s programs for wallet‑friendly choices nationwide.
What Master’s in Education Degrees Lead to Rhode Island Teacher Licensure?
Rhode Island’s Preliminary to Professional certification ladder often runs through M.Ed. programs.
- Enroll in a RIDE‑approved M.Ed. licensure or endorsement program.
- Pass Praxis Subject Assessments or the appropriate Pearson tests for your field.
- Complete two years of supervised teaching plus an induction program.
- Submit fingerprints for BCI background clearance.
- Apply via the RIDE eCert portal for full Professional Certification upon program completion.
Are Online Master’s in Education Programs Available in Rhode Island?
Yes—online M.Ed. programs serve educators statewide, including those on the islands or in coastal communities.
Pros
- Asynchronous coursework fits coaching, hospitality work, and family life.
- In‑state rates often apply to online learners.
- Practicum placements arranged in your local district.
Cons
- Broadband access may be limited on Block Island or rural South County.
- Less face‑to‑face networking.
- Some on‑campus sessions may be required for capstones.
Explore online master’s in education programs
What Are the Admissions Requirements for M.Ed. Programs in Rhode Island?
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPA 2.75–3.0
- 2–3 professional recommendations
- Personal statement of purpose
- Résumé (teaching experience preferred)
- Praxis Core or equivalent (for licensure seekers)
Popular Master’s in Education Degree Specialties in Rhode Island
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Special Education
- Reading and Literacy
- Educational Technology
- Early Childhood Education
- Educational Leadership
Top Employers and School Districts for M.Ed. Graduates in Rhode Island
- Providence Public School District
- Cranston Public Schools
- Pawtucket School Department
- Rhode Island Department of Education
- University of Rhode Island & RIC
- Achievement First Rhode Island Charter Network
Take the Next Step
Whether transitioning from a preliminary license, seeking an ESL endorsement, or aiming for a leadership role, an M.Ed. from a Rhode Island university can accelerate your career and your impact on students. Compare program lengths, tuition, and delivery modes—then choose the pathway that aligns with your professional goals. Your next chapter in Rhode Island education starts now.
Sources
- Rhode Island Department of Education Educator Shortage & Certification Data
- Rhode Island Teacher Certification (eCert) – Licensure Portal
- NES/Praxis – Rhode Island Testing Requirements
- New England Commission of Higher Education – Accredited Institutions Directory
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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