9 Top Masters in Education Online No GRE Programs Under $15,000

Want to earn a master’s in education online without taking the GRE or spending too much? Good news – many top universities now offer affordable, quality education degrees with no standardized testing requirements.

These online programs need just 30 credit hours and students can finish them in 12-18 months. Many schools like Ball State University have received national recognition from U.S. News & World Report for their outstanding online graduate education programs. Students can pursue an online master’s in secondary education or a master of secondary education program, and most don’t need the GRE, MTEL, or a teaching license to begin.

Teachers watching their budget will find LSU’s program costs $378 per credit hour, with a total cost of $11,353. Students can transfer up to nine graduate credit hours to save time and money. The programs show excellent results, like the University of Arkansas’s 100% SLSA pass rate. Working professionals can benefit from flexible formats that combine quality, affordability, and convenience effectively.

1. Ball State University – MA in Secondary Education

Ball State University’s MA in Secondary Education program is notable with its complete online learning experience. Students need just 30 credits to graduate, and the program offers 100% online flexibility.

Key features

The program helps you master everything in education including curriculum, social and multicultural foundations, pedagogy, and educational technology. Here’s what you’ll get:

• No GRE requirement lets you start your learning right away
• Four distinct concentration options that match your career goals:
  • Educational Studies: Helps you build better teaching skills
  • Secondary Teaching License (Transition to Teaching): Perfect if you want to teach Grades 6-12
  • Instructional Leadership: Prepares you to be a coach, mentor, or curriculum designer
  • Dual Credit Credential/Teaching in an Interest Area: Great for teachers who want dual credit credentials
• Highly ranked program that U.S. News & World Report recognizes for excellent online graduate education
• Fast-track option lets you finish in just 4-5 semesters (18-21 months)
• Accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)

The program keeps classes small. About 67.3% of classes have 20-29 students, and 22.6% have 10-19 students.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• The core team includes full-time, tenure-line faculty
• Small classes mean more time with education experts
• You can take breaks between semesters when needed
• Transfer up to 9 graduate credits from another university
• Earn specialized certificates while completing your master’s

Cons:

• Some content area courses might not be available online
• Secondary Transition to Teaching students must keep a B average
• Out-of-state students pay more for the full program
• Teaching license seekers must spend 16 weeks in an Indiana school

Pricing

The program offers competitive tuition rates based on where you live:

• In-state tuition: $489 per credit hour ($14,670 total program cost)
• Out-of-state tuition: $721 per credit hour ($21,630 total program cost)

You can reduce these costs through several options:

• Graduate assistantships give you real-life experience and lower costs
• Federal Academic Alliance members pay less tuition
• Ohio and Kentucky residents might get reduced tuition through Regional Tuition Savings
• Indiana residents over 60 could get 50% off tuition
• Many employers help pay for education

Best for

This program works great for:

• Current middle and high school teachers who want to improve their teaching skills
• Career changers looking to get their first teaching license through Transition to Teaching
• Educators who want to become instructional coaches or curriculum designers
• Teachers who need dual credit credentials to teach college-level high school courses
• Working professionals who need a flexible schedule

The next start date for this masters in education online no GRE program is January 5, 2026. You have time to get your application ready.

2. LSU Shreveport – M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction

LSU Shreveport ranks #1 for Education Master’s Degrees in Louisiana. The school offers a masters in education online no GRE program that blends flexibility with excellence. Students get detailed education in curriculum development, educational technology, and instructional strategies through a 100% online format.

Key features

The program excels in these areas:

• Customizable curriculum lets students shape coursework to match their career goals
• Compact program structure needs only 30 credit hours to graduate
• No GRE requirement makes the program available to experienced educators
• Award-winning program holds the #1 spot in Louisiana for Curriculum & Instruction Master’s Degree programs
• Accreditation from Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Flexible course selection includes six specialization courses from various options

The program requires four foundation courses (12 credit hours) that cover research, curriculum, professional learning communities, and data use. Students then choose six specialization courses (18 credit hours) from areas like educational technology, reading, urban education, adult education, and more.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Program ranks #11 out of 142 for General Educational Leadership in the Southeast Region
• Students can transfer up to six semester hours of graduate credit from other CAEP accredited institutions
• Eight-year completion window helps working professionals manage their time
• Real-life application focus builds skills students can use right away in their classrooms
• Qualified students might receive the TEACH Grant

Cons:

• Students without teaching certificates won’t get additional certification
• Students must maintain regular enrollment with no more than two withdrawal sessions
• Graduate level allows only one independent study
• Transfer credits must be from courses taken within eight years of finishing the degree

Pricing

LSU Shreveport keeps costs down with a simple pay-by-course structure:

• Cost per credit hour: $378
• Total program cost: $11,353 (all fees included)

These economical solutions make LSU Shreveport stand out among quality online masters in secondary education programs. The total cost stays under $15,000, which works well for educators who want quality education without heavy debt.

Best for

These professionals will benefit most from the program:

• Certified teachers who want to learn more without seeking new certification
• Education professionals ready for curriculum development leadership roles
• Instructional coordinators and specialists looking to improve their expertise
• Educational consultants who need stronger theoretical foundations
• Academic directors interested in advanced curriculum design knowledge

Students develop critical thinking and decision-making skills that help advance their careers. The program’s focus on educational research, testing, and curriculum development gives graduates expertise they can use immediately in their work.

LSU Shreveport’s M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction strikes the perfect balance between academic quality, affordability, and flexibility for educators seeking a master of secondary education without GRE requirements.

3. University of Arkansas – M.Ed. in Educational Leadership

The University of Arkansas offers a fully masters in education online no GRE program in Educational Leadership. This 30-credit hour program gives current teachers the expertise they need to move into administrative positions at elementary and secondary schools.

Key features

The M.Ed. in Educational Leadership excels with its:

• Cohort-based learning model that creates strong professional bonds with peers and faculty
• Redesigned flexible schedule where you take 8-week courses one at a time during fall and spring semesters
• Blended synchronous and asynchronous instruction with Wednesday evening live sessions
• 100% pass rate on the School Leaders Licensure Assessment
• CAEP accreditation that ensures program quality and recognition
• Personalized internship experience with support from experienced university supervisors

Students complete coursework together and graduate in December of the following year. You’ll study topics like school organization, principalship, ethical leadership, school law, and instructional leadership.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• The faculty combines academic scholars with experienced practitioners
• Weekly live online classes create better connections than typical online programs
• Small class sizes mean you get personal attention and mentorship
• Assignments focus on ground application instead of “busy work”
• You can easily reach faculty during virtual office hours

Cons:

• You need a valid teaching license to get admitted
• Set meeting times might not work for everyone
• You must complete an internship for building-level licensure
• You can only start in fall
• You need to maintain at least a 3.0 GPA throughout the program

Pricing

Here’s what you’ll pay:

• Tuition per credit hour: $459.68
• Additional fees per credit hour: $52.98 (has library, network, facilities, and online fees)
• Total program cost: $14,882 for the complete degree

The University of Arkansas charges the same tuition for all online students whatever their residency status. This makes the program a great deal for out-of-state students. At under $15,000 total, it’s a high-value option among similar degrees.

Best for

This program works best for:

• Current teachers with valid licenses who want administrative roles in K-12 schools
• Educators interested in principalships or other school-site administrative positions
• Professionals seeking building-level licensure who don’t want to relocate
• Teachers who like structured cohort experiences better than self-paced study
• Educators who value direct faculty interaction in online formats

You need to complete your fall admission application by April 1, though you can apply early by November 1. You’ll also need two recommendation letters (one from your current supervisor) and a writing sample.

The University of Arkansas master of secondary education program combines theory and practice. You’ll graduate with both credentials and hands-on knowledge needed for educational leadership positions.

4. Fitchburg State University – M.Ed. in Curriculum and Teaching

Fitchburg State University’s masters in education online no GRE program lets you complete your degree in just 12 months through its fast-paced design. The M.Ed. in Curriculum and Teaching program consists of 12 seven-week courses you can take entirely online. This setup works great for educators who want to advance their careers without taking time off.

Key features

The program has these benefits:

• Accelerated format with six terms yearly. Students can take one or two courses each term based on their schedule
• Flexible completion timeline from 12 months to 6 years that fits different life situations
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) accreditation that guarantees program quality and recognition
• Customizable learning path with areas like assessment, curriculum and instruction, diversity, elementary education, literacy, secondary education, special education, and technology
• Detailed student outcomes that focus on teaching strategies, assessment principles, accommodation design, and research application

Students learn about today’s educational challenges through courses like “Dynamic Perspectives in Education” which covers diversity and legislative mandates. “Strategies for Creating a Positive Learning Environment” helps them master classroom management and interventions.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• You can pay course by course
• In-state and out-of-state students pay the same rates
• You can use what you learn right away in your classroom
• Ranked #3 among “Best Colleges for the Money: Massachusetts” by College Factual (2021)
• Several start dates throughout the year

Cons:

• Teachers need extra steps for professional licensure since this isn’t a licensure program
• Standard admission needs a minimum 2.8 GPA
• Application requires an essay and professional resume
• Massachusetts teachers must self-petition for professional licensure
• International students must meet extra requirements including English proficiency tests

Pricing

The program offers clear, budget-friendly pricing:

• Cost per credit hour: $385 (all fees included)
• Cost per course: $1,155 for each 3-credit course
• Total program cost: $13,860

Each credit hour costs $233 for tuition plus $152 for fees. Qualified students can get financial aid (Federal School Code 002184). These rates make Fitchburg State one of the most affordable options among similar high-quality programs.

Best for

This program works well for:

• Licensed teachers who want better teaching skills without seeking more licenses
• Curriculum specialists aiming to get better at designing effective curricula
• Educators who want to bring new technology into their teaching
• Teaching professionals looking to become Curriculum Coordinators or Instructional Systems Specialists
• Working teachers who want to apply what they learn to their classrooms right away

Massachusetts educators can use this degree toward professional licensure. Licensed teachers can ask the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for professional licensure since the program gives them a master’s degree with 12 credits of content and pedagogy.

Graduates learn practical skills in data collection, technology integration, and teaching different learning styles. These skills help advance their careers and improve their students’ learning experience.

5. Drury University – M.Ed. in Secondary Education

Drury University’s masters in education online no GRE program is 150 years old with roots in one of Missouri’s longest-standing accredited teacher preparation programs. The M.Ed. in Secondary Education needs 30 credit hours and you can complete it entirely online. Working professionals can advance their teaching credentials without campus visits.

Key features

Several notable elements make this program stand out:

• Complete online flexibility with courses delivered 100% online, so location doesn’t matter
• Established reputation as one of Missouri’s longest-standing accredited teacher preparation programs
• Compact class sizes averaging 12 students, and 69.4% of classes have only 2-9 students
• Supportive faculty structure where teaching assistants aren’t used
• Accelerated 4+1 option that lets current Drury undergraduates start graduate coursework during their bachelor’s program

The curriculum helps students become skilled at both content knowledge and instructional capabilities. Students must take SCI 621 in their first two semesters, and complete EDUC 689 and EDUC 700 in their final 9 hours. This sequence will give a solid foundation for skill development as you advance.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Small class sizes (typically 8-12 students) that give you personal attention
• The core team provides close mentorship throughout the program
• Flexible scheduling with both 8-week and 16-week course options
• No GRE requirement for admission makes applying easier
• You can complete teacher certification alongside the degree

Cons:

• You must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA
• Some specialized courses might not be available in certain terms
• Students seeking certification can’t complete practicum requirements online
• Multiple steps in the application process include background checks
• Full-time faculty must complete your Educator Disposition Assessment

Pricing

Drury’s budget-friendly pricing structure:

• Per credit hour cost: $395
• Total program cost: $11,850 for the complete 30-credit degree

This program costs less than $15,000, making it one of the more affordable online masters in secondary education programs. The university charges the same tuition rate for all online students whatever their residency status, so both in-state and out-of-state students pay the same.

Best for

This master of secondary education program serves:

• Current middle and high school teachers who want to boost their instructional effectiveness
• Recent graduates who want to build on their undergraduate education foundation
• Career-changers who want teacher certification with an advanced degree
• Educators interested in curriculum development and instructional improvement
• Professionals seeking affordable, flexible education without GRE requirements

Drury’s education department is among regional institutions for producing capable teachers. Students learn academic literacy, research skills, and curriculum development that help them excel in modern educational environments.

The program accepts applications on a rolling basis and makes admissions decisions within a month after submission. You can start when it fits your professional schedule.

6. University of the Cumberlands – M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership

The University of the Cumberlands provides an affordable masters in education online no GRE program with several specialization options. U.S. News & World Report ranks this program #127 out of 313 in Best Online Master’s in Education Programs. Working professionals can benefit from this M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership program’s flexible format and quality education.

Key features

Students will find these distinctive program elements:

• Compact 30-credit curriculum with 12 hours of core courses plus 18 hours of endorsement coursework
• Multiple specialization options ranging from English, ESL, Health & Physical Education to Interdisciplinary, Math, School Community Leader, School Safety, and Social Studies
• Dual accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC) and the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
• Field experience components blend theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice
• Structured course sequence starts with “Best Practices for Coaching and Mentoring Teachers” and ends with “Teacher Leader in Professional Learning Communities”

Students build strong foundations through core curriculum courses in reading instruction, research methods, coaching practices, and professional learning communities. The endorsement curriculum allows students to tailor their studies based on career goals and interests.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Teachers learn from faculty with real-life school leadership experience
• Strong services and technologies ranking (#11)
• Student excellence ranking (#47)
• Admission requires no GRE
• High acceptance rate (98.4%)

Cons:

• Valid teaching license needed for admission
• All courses require field/clinical experience hours
• Program completion needs comprehensive portfolio
• Students must complete degree within six years
• Program ranks lower than some competitors (#127)

Pricing

Students appreciate the University of the Cumberlands’ affordable pricing:

• Cost per credit hour: $315
• Total program cost: $9,450
• One Price Promise: Digital textbooks come included at no extra cost
• No technology fees with the One Price Promise

This makes Cumberlands one of the most affordable quality online masters in secondary education programs under $15,000.

Best for

This master of secondary education program serves:

• Certified teachers who want leadership roles while teaching
• Educators specializing in specific subjects such as English, math or social studies
• School professionals drawn to community leadership or school safety
• Teachers seeking ESL expertise through dedicated endorsement paths
• Budget-conscious educators looking for quality education at affordable rates

Graduates prepare for transformational roles through a balanced mix of theory, reflection, and applied leadership opportunities. The 13.5:1 faculty-to-student ratio ensures students receive personal attention throughout their educational experience.

7. Georgia Southern University – M.Ed. in Instructional Technology

Ranked #85 out of 313 in Best Online Master’s in Education Programs by U.S. News & World Report, Georgia Southern University offers a masters in education online no GRE program. Students learn to design, develop, and manage learning technologies through technological integration in educational settings. The program runs completely online.

Key features

The program is known for these distinctive elements:

• Three specialized concentration options:
  • Instructional Technology concentration (for certified educators)
  • School Library Media concentration (for both certified and non-certified educators)
  • Dual Certification in both areas
• 100% online coursework that fits working professionals’ schedules
• Full-time faculty who lead the nation in Instructional Technology
• Practical application focus through creative projects and professional portfolio development
• 36-42 credit hours based on your concentration

Students need a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum 2.50 GPA.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• The program’s faculty includes full-time university professors who are experts in the field
• Students develop a professional portfolio during the program
• Georgia Professional Standards Commission recognizes certification options
• Promising candidates can get provisional admission
• Student Excellence ranking (#171) shows strong outcomes

Cons:

• Only eight states recognize the certification (FL, HI, ID, KY, PA, VT, VA, and WA)
• Applicants without a Georgia teaching certificate must pass a background check
• NACES must evaluate international transcripts
• Fixed application deadlines (Fall: July 1, Spring: November 1, Summer: April 1)

Pricing

In-state residents save significantly on tuition:

• In-state tuition: $5,112 per year ($2,556 per semester)
• Out-of-state tuition: $21,294 per year ($10,647 per semester)
• International tuition: $21,906 per year ($10,953 per semester)

Best for

The program serves these groups well:

• Current P-12 educators who need additional certification in instructional technology
• Aspiring school library media specialists who may not have teaching certification
• Technology specialists in school districts who need advanced credentials
• Instructional designers who plan careers in educational settings
• Educators seeking certification who can benefit from the 100% online format

Graduates receive a professional portfolio with their master of secondary education degree, ready to showcase their skills to employers.

8. University of West Alabama – M.Ed. in High School Education

University of West Alabama offers a masters in education online no GRE that teaches concepts for rural and diverse student populations. The degree specifically targets instructional methods for grades 6-12, which sets it apart from similar programs.

Key features

The program excels through:

• 33 credit hours with 8-week courses that offer flexibility
• Students can complete the program in about one year
• A fully online format from one of Alabama’s most affordable schools
• State’s leading educators have developed the curriculum
• Core courses teach educational planning, statistics, and technology integration
• Next start date: January 12th

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Students earn both a master’s degree and Professional Educator Certificate
• Students can progress at their own pace to meet work commitments
• The program improves career prospects in classroom and specialty roles
• Small class sizes ensure individual attention

Cons:

• Students need fingerprints and background clearance
• Students must maintain a 3.25 GPA with no grades below ‘C’
• Program completion requires a detailed examination

Pricing

The program offers simple, budget-friendly pricing:

• Cost per credit hour: $429
• Total program cost: Approximately $14,157

Best for

This online masters in secondary education serves:

• Teachers who want Master’s Level Professional Educator certification
• Educators looking to advance their careers
• Working professionals who need to balance education and work

9. Lamar University – M.Ed. in Educational Administration

Lamar University’s M.Ed. in Educational Administration is the institution’s largest distance learning program, evolving from its first fully online graduate offering. Students can prepare for leadership positions within school systems through this 30-credit hour curriculum without submitting GRE scores for admission.

Key features

The Beaumont, Texas-based program delivers these distinctive elements:

• Students gain hands-on experience through immediate research immersion
• Students receive complete preparation in organizational leadership, decision-making, and instructional design
• A 160-hour practicum takes place in ground school settings
• Degrees are awarded three times yearly with multiple enrollment dates

Pros and cons

Pros:

• The curriculum builds ground skills through research-based learning
• Students can complete their degree at their own pace
• The program emphasizes communication and mentoring skills
• A dedicated Center for Military Services supports veteran students

Cons:

• Student feedback quality varies according to reviews
• Five-week courses demand intense commitment
• Certification exam preparation needs improvement according to some students

Pricing

The program costs include:

• Per credit hour cost: $360
• Per course cost: $1,080
• Total program cost: $10,802

Best for

The program serves educators pursuing:

• School principalship positions
• Superintendent roles
• Administrative careers that need organizational management expertise
• Leadership roles that develop parent involvement and community support

Choose Your No GRE Education Degree Today

Quality education through an affordable online Master’s degree is more available than ever. Nine programs show how you can achieve your educational goals without standardized testing requirements or excessive costs. Ball State’s detailed MA in Secondary Education and Lamar University’s leadership-focused Educational Administration program offer unique strengths that match specific career goals.

These programs share several key benefits. Students enjoy flexible scheduling, faster completion options, and practical skills they can use in their classrooms right away. On top of that, many schools offer multiple start dates. You can start your educational experience when it fits your schedule instead of waiting for traditional semester starts.

Students can customize their learning through specialized concentrations. The programs support various professional goals without needing to relocate or pause careers. You might want to improve your curriculum development skills, pursue administrative leadership, accept new ideas in educational technology, or build subject-specific expertise.

The financial value of these programs is clear. Total costs range from about $9,450 (University of the Cumberlands) to just under $15,000. These degrees provide great returns through better credentials and expanded career opportunities. Many universities charge similar tuition rates whatever your residency status, making quality education available across the country.

Your specific career goals will determine the best program for your needs. You should think about specialized concentrations, timeline flexibility, synchronous vs. asynchronous instruction priorities, and potential certification requirements before deciding.

A master’s degree shows your steadfast dedication to educational excellence and creates paths to advanced positions with higher earning potential. Quality graduate education stands within reach now, no longer stymied by GRE requirements or high costs. Selecting a program that lines up with your professional goals could reshape the scene of your career and the educational experiences of countless future students.