Rankings / Masters

Best Master's in Education

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$55,839

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

59%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$15,871

Avg. Net Price

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The pursuit of a Master's in Education often hinges on the potential for career advancement and financial stability. With an average earning potential of $57,550 for graduates across these programs, it’s clear that education can be a smart investment. As we evaluate these schools, we find a blend of strong graduation rates, earning potential, and manageable debt levels that can make a real difference in students' lives.

The strongest programs on this list stand out not just in earnings but in their overall impact on graduates' future success. Key metrics such as graduation rates, student debt, and the ability to advance socioeconomic mobility play significant roles. As you explore the rankings below, consider how each school’s unique profile aligns with your personal and professional goals.

Take Vanderbilt University and Niagara University, for example. Vanderbilt boasts impressive earnings of $91,565 and a graduation rate of 93%, while Niagara graduates earn $56,196 with a 72% graduation rate. The stark contrast in earnings, despite both offering strong programs, highlights the varying returns on investment in education. Understanding these differences can inform your decision as you consider where to pursue your master's degree.

Key Findings

Vanderbilt University graduates earn an average of $91,565, significantly higher than the average of $57,550.

Graduation rates vary widely, with Vanderbilt at 93% and CUNY Brooklyn College at 55%.

The average net price for these master's programs is $15,330, but it ranges from $3,103 to $19,035.

Debt levels also differ, with Niagara University graduates carrying $25,475 compared to CUNY Queens College's $10,298.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $55,839

Avg. graduation rate 59%

Avg. net price $15,871

Avg. median debt $19,506

How We Ranked

Master's programs ranked by graduate earnings, mobility, and program concentration in Education

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

University of Northern Iowa

Cedar Falls, IA

Graduation68%

Earnings$55,177

Net Price$15,901

View full profile →

Niagara University

Niagara University, NY

Graduation72%

Earnings$56,196

Net Price$17,248

View full profile →

Valley City State University

Valley City, ND

Graduation51%

Earnings$52,725

Net Price$11,890

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

University of Northern Iowa

Cedar Falls, IA · 7,529 students · Public

The University of Northern Iowa's Education master's program attracts those who are passionate about shaping the future of education in a supportive learning environment. Students engage in hands-on experiences and collaborative projects that prepare them to lead classrooms and influence educational policy. This program is ideal for aspiring teachers and educational leaders who want to deepen their knowledge and impact in their communities.

93% accepted 68% graduate $55,177 earnings

University's full profile

Niagara University

Niagara University, NY · 2,653 students · Private nonprofit

The Education master's program at Niagara University is designed for those looking to make a direct impact in their communities. Ideal candidates are often those who aspire to work in K-12 education or educational administration, focusing on creating inclusive and effective learning environments. The program emphasizes hands-on experiences and a strong connection to local educational needs, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world settings.

87% accepted 72% graduate $56,196 earnings

Niagara's full profile

Valley City State University

Valley City, ND · 958 students · Public

Valley City State University's Education master's program is an excellent fit for aspiring educators seeking a personalized learning experience in a close-knit community. This program emphasizes practical skills and real-world applications, making it ideal for those who want to make an immediate impact in their classrooms. Students benefit from small class sizes and a supportive environment that fosters collaboration and innovation in teaching practices.

99% accepted 51% graduate $52,725 earnings

Valley's full profile

Mayville State University

Mayville, ND · 733 students · Public

The Education master's program at Mayville State University caters to individuals who want to make a direct impact in rural and underserved educational settings. Students here focus on developing practical skills and strategies to address the unique challenges faced by these communities, making it a great fit for those with a passion for hands-on teaching and outreach.

40% graduate $47,828 earnings

Mayville's full profile

SUNY College at Geneseo

Geneseo, NY · 3,869 students · Public

The Education master's program at SUNY College at Geneseo is tailored for those eager to enhance their teaching skills and contribute positively to student learning. Students delve into innovative teaching methods and educational research, preparing them for various roles in education, from teaching to administration. This program attracts dedicated educators who are committed to academic excellence and student success in a collaborative environment.

66% accepted 72% graduate $67,316 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Pursuing an Education master's at Vanderbilt University suits those who are passionate about shaping the future of education. Students in this program are likely to engage with innovative teaching methods and leadership strategies, aiming to influence educational policy and practice in meaningful ways. The environment here encourages collaboration and critical thinking, preparing graduates to become effective leaders in the field.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

At CUNY Queens College, the Education master's program is a fitting choice for those who are dedicated to serving diverse student populations. Students here often gain skills in addressing varying educational needs and fostering inclusivity in classrooms. The program encourages a community-focused approach, equipping graduates to advocate for equitable educational practices in urban settings.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Goshen College

Goshen, IN · 773 students · Private nonprofit

Goshen College’s Education master's program is designed for those who not only aim to teach but also wish to instill values of community and service in their students. The program encourages engagement with innovative educational practices while emphasizing social justice and inclusivity. Students here often find themselves committed to creating supportive learning environments that resonate with their personal beliefs and goals.

84% accepted 63% graduate $51,943 earnings

Goshen's full profile

Emporia State University

Emporia, KS · 2,239 students · Public

Emporia State University's Education master's program is tailored for aspiring educators who want to deepen their expertise and make a meaningful impact in schools. Students here engage in a curriculum designed to enhance teaching practices, leadership skills, and educational research, all within a supportive community that values education.

98% accepted 55% graduate $47,601 earnings

Emporia's full profile

#10

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

The Education master's program at CUNY Brooklyn College is designed for individuals looking to make a real difference in the classroom. This program prepares students to tackle the diverse challenges in education, equipping them with the skills to become effective educators or administrators who can navigate the complexities of today’s educational landscape. With a vibrant community and a strong focus on social equity, students often find themselves inspired to advocate for underrepresented groups in education.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Trinity Christian College

Palos Heights, IL · 820 students · Private nonprofit

Trinity Christian College’s Education master's program is ideal for individuals passionate about teaching and shaping young minds in a supportive, faith-based environment. Students can expect to develop a strong foundation in pedagogical practices while integrating their values into their teaching philosophy. This program appeals to those who want to cultivate a nurturing educational experience and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

85% accepted 61% graduate $55,700 earnings

Trinity's full profile

#12

Illinois State University

Normal, IL · 19,057 students · Public

Illinois State University’s Education master's program is ideal for those dedicated to shaping future generations through teaching and leadership. Students in this program focus on developing innovative strategies to enhance learning outcomes, making it suitable for both new educators and seasoned professionals eager to elevate their careers in education.

88% accepted 65% graduate $62,117 earnings

Illinois's full profile

#13

William Carey University

Hattiesburg, MS · 2,201 students · Private nonprofit

At William Carey University, the Education master's program attracts those committed to fostering student success and transforming classrooms. The program emphasizes innovative teaching methods and educational leadership, catering to individuals who want to make a difference in their communities and advance their careers in education.

60% accepted 51% graduate $43,087 earnings

William's full profile

#14

SUNY Oneonta

Oneonta, NY · 4,643 students · Public

SUNY Oneonta's Education master's program supports students who are passionate about teaching and want to make a significant difference in the lives of their students. The program emphasizes practical experience and prepares educators to adapt to diverse classroom environments, helping them to develop the skills necessary for effective teaching.

70% accepted 70% graduate $60,386 earnings

Boricua College

New York, NY · 391 students · Private nonprofit

74% graduate $35,348 earnings

Boricua's full profile

#16

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

At Brigham Young University, the Education master's program emphasizes a blend of academic rigor and practical application, making it well-suited for those looking to impact education in meaningful ways. Students engage in collaborative learning experiences that prepare them to address real-world challenges within the educational system. This program is designed for individuals who are committed to lifelong learning and community service, aligning closely with the university's values.

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#17

Buena Vista University

Storm Lake, IA · 1,366 students · Private nonprofit

78% accepted 54% graduate $49,156 earnings

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College's Education master's program is ideal for those passionate about fostering meaningful change in educational environments. Students here engage with a community that prioritizes intellectual curiosity and social responsibility, preparing them to be thoughtful leaders in diverse educational settings. The focus is on building a strong foundation in both theory and practice, allowing graduates to tackle the challenges of modern education head-on.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#19

Blackburn College

Carlinville, IL · 471 students · Private nonprofit

63% accepted 55% graduate $46,802 earnings

Blackburn's full profile

#20

Newman University

Wichita, KS · 851 students · Private nonprofit

The Education master's program at Newman University focuses on developing compassionate educators who are ready to make a difference in their communities. With a commitment to service, students here engage deeply with the principles of teaching and learning, preparing to inspire future generations in diverse classroom settings. This program is ideal for those who want to blend theory with practical application, emphasizing personal growth alongside professional skill-building.

74% accepted 53% graduate $55,041 earnings

Newman's full profile

#21

Lake Washington Institute of Technology

Kirkland, WA · 2,406 students · Public

The Education master's program at Lake Washington Institute of Technology is ideal for those looking to take a hands-on approach to teaching and learning. Students can expect to work towards roles that emphasize practical skills and community engagement, preparing them to address the diverse needs of students in today’s educational landscape.

38% graduate $50,669 earnings

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

Smith College’s Education master's program appeals to individuals who value a collaborative and empowering learning environment. This program is particularly suited for women seeking to become leaders in education, equipping students with the tools to advocate for equity and social justice in schools and communities.

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Minot State University

Minot, ND · 2,062 students · Public

At Minot State University, the Education master's program is ideal for aspiring teachers and educational leaders looking to deepen their expertise. The program encourages students to engage with contemporary education issues, equipping them with the skills to enhance learning environments. This is a fitting choice for individuals who value collaboration and innovation in teaching, aiming to foster positive change in schools and communities.

65% accepted 46% graduate $51,759 earnings

The College of New Jersey

Ewing, NJ · 7,105 students · Public

The Education master's program at The College of New Jersey is well-suited for future educators who are committed to excellence in teaching and leadership. Students engage deeply with current educational practices and theories, preparing them to address diverse learning needs in various settings. This program attracts those looking to make a significant impact in their communities through enhanced educational methods.

62% accepted 86% graduate $73,323 earnings

SUNY at Fredonia

Fredonia, NY · 2,755 students · Public

78% accepted 52% graduate $54,247 earnings

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

The Education master's program at the University of Central Florida is designed for individuals who aspire to make a significant impact in educational settings. Whether you're aiming to lead in K-12 schools or influence educational policy, this program emphasizes developing practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge, preparing students to address real-world challenges in education.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#27

North Seattle College

Seattle, WA · 3,074 students · Public

The Education master's program at North Seattle College is designed for individuals who want to make a difference in the educational landscape, particularly in early childhood and community education. This program emphasizes hands-on learning and community engagement, preparing students to address the unique challenges faced by diverse populations. Those who thrive here typically value collaboration and are eager to implement innovative teaching practices in their future roles.

33% graduate $47,728 earnings

University of Central Missouri

Warrensburg, MO · 5,648 students · Public

64% accepted 52% graduate $49,560 earnings

University's full profile

#29

Bridgewater State University

Bridgewater, MA · 7,829 students · Public

88% accepted 54% graduate $57,466 earnings

Bridgewater's full profile

#30

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 13,359 students · Public

At the University of North Florida, the Education master's program prepares students to tackle the challenges of modern education with confidence and skill. This program caters to individuals who are passionate about teaching and want to make a meaningful impact in their schools and communities. Students engage in a collaborative learning environment that emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application, equipping them to lead in diverse educational settings.

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

#31

Piedmont University

Demorest, GA · 1,117 students · Private nonprofit

93% accepted 44% graduate $49,130 earnings

Piedmont's full profile

#32

St. Joseph's University-New York

Brooklyn, NY · 3,144 students · Private nonprofit

St. Joseph's University in Brooklyn provides an Education master's program for those driven to foster change in educational settings. This program attracts individuals eager to lead schools or influence educational policy, focusing on practical skills and community engagement. Students will find a curriculum that encourages critical reflection on contemporary educational challenges and solutions.

72% accepted 67% graduate $63,905 earnings

New Mexico Highlands University

Las Vegas, NM · 1,451 students · Public

New Mexico Highlands University is home to an Education master's program that serves those eager to impact their communities through education. This program is particularly appealing to students who are passionate about working with underserved populations and want to advocate for equitable learning opportunities. Participants can expect to develop a strong foundation in educational practices that align with the unique needs of diverse student groups.

26% graduate $45,937 earnings

State University of New York at New Paltz

New Paltz, NY · 6,086 students · Public

62% accepted 70% graduate $58,073 earnings

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS · 9,733 students · Public

90% accepted 48% graduate $48,928 earnings

Roberts Wesleyan University

Rochester, NY · 1,149 students · Private nonprofit

71% accepted 65% graduate $55,031 earnings

Roberts's full profile

#37

Chadron State College

Chadron, NE · 1,540 students · Public

44% graduate $47,002 earnings

Chadron's full profile

#38

Northwest Missouri State University

Maryville, MO · 4,378 students · Public

86% accepted 56% graduate $47,885 earnings

Northwest's full profile

#39

University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma

Chickasha, OK · 941 students · Public

66% accepted 41% graduate $41,913 earnings

University's full profile

#40

Ramapo College of New Jersey

Mahwah, NJ · 4,898 students · Public

71% accepted 71% graduate $67,541 earnings

Ramapo's full profile

#41

Maranatha Baptist University

Watertown, WI · 541 students · Private nonprofit

72% accepted 65% graduate $45,593 earnings

Maranatha's full profile

#42

Midland University

Fremont, NE · 1,159 students · Private nonprofit

66% accepted 43% graduate $52,163 earnings

Midland's full profile

#43

Ball State University

Muncie, IN · 13,988 students · Public

86% accepted 63% graduate $51,833 earnings

Rhode Island College

Providence, RI · 5,049 students · Public

92% accepted 47% graduate $56,318 earnings

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

The Education master's program at Florida International University is tailored for aspiring educators eager to impact diverse communities. Students here can expect to engage deeply with practical teaching methodologies and educational leadership, all while being immersed in Miami's vibrant cultural landscape. This program is well-suited for those who are committed to fostering inclusive environments and enhancing educational outcomes for all students.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

#46

Greenville University

Greenville, IL · 955 students · Private nonprofit

98% accepted 46% graduate $46,827 earnings

Greenville's full profile

#47

Bay Path University

Longmeadow, MA · 1,108 students · Private nonprofit

85% accepted 51% graduate $55,383 earnings

Georgia Southwestern State University

Americus, GA · 2,424 students · Public

75% accepted 36% graduate $48,757 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#49

SUNY Old Westbury

Old Westbury, NY · 4,162 students · Public

84% accepted 46% graduate $58,526 earnings

James Madison University

Harrisonburg, VA · 20,888 students · Public

72% accepted 80% graduate $69,954 earnings

When comparing schools, it’s crucial to recognize that Vanderbilt's combination of high earnings and graduation rates sets it apart from other institutions like Niagara University. While both schools offer solid education programs, the difference in average earnings—$91,565 at Vanderbilt compared to $56,196 at Niagara—illustrates how outcomes can vary broadly based on the institution's resources and reputation.

After reviewing the data, consider how these factors align with your priorities. Are you leaning toward a school with lower debt but perhaps lower earnings potential? Or is a higher upfront cost justifiable if it leads to significantly greater long-term income? Think about your financial situation, career aspirations, and where you see yourself thriving in an educational environment.

Ultimately, this data captures a critical moment in a student's life. The choices made now can influence not just the next few years but the trajectory of a career and financial stability. As families weigh their options, understanding the implications of each program becomes essential, guiding them toward an informed decision that aligns with their long-term goals.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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