Online Education Degrees and Certificate Programs

Looking for an education program that targets your career goals?

As one of the largest providers of education programs in the United States, we offer online certificate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in key areas such as early childhood development, early childhood administration, instructional design and technology, and more.

Learn from practicing professionals with extensive experience in education, and gain the credentials, industry certifications, and experience you need to succeed. All classes are 100% online, so it’s easy to create a study schedule that fits your lifestyle.

See Notes and Conditions below for important information.

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What Area of Study Are You Interested In?

Online Early Childhood Degree Programs

Society needs trained professionals who can help shape young children from birth to age eight into the functioning members of society they will one day grow up to be. Those working in this field develop, evaluate, and implement curriculums, and other daily learning and developmental activities. Start building a rewarding career in this essential field today.

Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Development

In this program, you'll gain the skills to create effective learning environments for young children. In addition, you'll focus on working with children in the inclusive classroom, activity implementation, and health and nutrition needs.

CONCENTRATIONS
    COURSE EFFORT
    15–18 hrs/week
    CREDITS REQUIRED
    90
    AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
    2 years
    Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Administration

    In this program, you'll gain the skills to provide a wide range of developmental learning opportunities for young children. You'll also gain the skills necessary to handle a variety of administrative and leadership responsibilities.

    CONCENTRATIONS
      COURSE EFFORT
      15–18 hrs/week
      CREDITS REQUIRED
      180
      AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
      4 years
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      Online Education Programs

      Society needs trained educators who have a strong desire to impart knowledge to others and make a difference in the world. Those studying education will prepare for careers teaching students and contributing to their learning development. This field presents a variety of opportunities to work in dynamic roles, ranging from teaching and administration to leadership and student services. Start exploring a career in this challenging field today.

      Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation

      Develop educational leadership and research skills to become a changemaker in the field of education. Explore innovative instruction, education policy, diversity, equity, inclusion, and more.

      CONCENTRATIONS
        COURSE EFFORT
        20–25 Hours / Week
        CREDITS REQUIRED
        90
        AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
        2 years
        Master of Science in Education

        In this program, you'll develop an understanding of diverse learners, academic content and pedagogy, assessment, professional responsibilities, and relationships. Choose from three unique concentrations to specialize your skills.

        CONCENTRATIONS
        • Leadership Essentials
        • Essentials of Exceptionalities
        • Literacy and Language Essentials
        COURSE EFFORT
        15 hrs/week
        CREDITS REQUIRED
        45–46
        AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
        1 year
        Master of Science in Higher Education

        Develop your critical thinking and writing skills relevant to leaders at colleges and universities, and learn to apply research methodology in designing and evaluating research studies. Choose from two concentrations.

        CONCENTRATIONS
        • College Administration and Leadership
        • Student Affairs
        COURSE EFFORT
        15 hrs/week
        CREDITS REQUIRED
        45
        AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
        1 year
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        Online Educational Psychology Programs

        Those pursuing a degree in educational psychology have a desire to help others, and they have a genuine curiosity about how developmental, cognitive, emotional, and social factors can affect a student’s ability to learn. They also have a desire to improve existing educational methodologies for adults, children, and people with special needs. Start working toward a rewarding career in this challenging field.

        Master of Science in Educational Psychology

        In this program, you'll study current instructional techniques, technologies, educational trends, and learning behaviors as you develop the competencies to guide the improvement of educational programs and practices in a variety of settings.

        CONCENTRATIONS
          COURSE EFFORT
          15 hrs/week
          CREDITS REQUIRED
          47
          AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
          1 year
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          Online Instructional Design and Technology Programs

          Those working in this field have a desire to make a difference in the world by identifying technological problems and creating instructional solutions. By using the design process to develop, implement, and evaluate instructional materials and environments, they can help find solutions to problems in a variety of essential industries. Begin working toward a rewarding career in this challenging field.

          Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design and Technology

          In this program, you'll study the design, development, and evaluation of instructional materials for a variety of different industries such as higher education, corporate, nonprofit, government, and military.

          CONCENTRATIONS
            COURSE EFFORT
            15–18 hrs/week
            CREDITS REQUIRED
            20
            AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
            6 months
            Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology

            Focus on developing skills that will allow you to design, develop, and evaluate educational and informational programs, materials, and media. You'll also study the use of technology in the delivery of educational services.

            CONCENTRATIONS
            • Adults
            COURSE EFFORT
            15 hrs/week
            CREDITS REQUIRED
            45
            AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE
            1 year
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            Promise Opens Doors Alliance

            Students enrolled in any Purdue Global education program may take advantage of our alliance with Promise Opens Doors, an organization that offers a certificate program for educators interested in working abroad to teach English to speakers of other languages.

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            Partnership with VIPKid

            VIPKid provides children with immersive one-on-one English language instruction, all online. Our alliance offers VIPKid teachers, as well as their immediate family members, tuition reductions on Purdue Global programs. Speak to an Advisor to learn more.

            Learn More

            Admissions Requirements and Resources

            To get started as a Purdue Global student, you must meet certain academic requirements and complete an enrollment application. Here’s what you’ll need to begin:

            Admission for Undergraduate Programs and Certificates

            • You must be a high school graduate, possess a General Education Development (GED) certificate, or other equivalency diploma. If you are a high school senior eligible to apply, you must submit proof of high school graduation.

            Admissions for Graduate Programs and Certificates

            • A bachelor’s degree is required to enroll in a master’s degree or graduate certificate program. You will need to provide an official transcript that shows completion of the required degree from an accredited institution, though an unofficial copy may be provided during the application process. 

            Want to know if online learning is right for you before you enroll? Watch our virtual campus tour to learn more.

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            Understanding Your Investment

            How long? How much? These are important questions! Try our online Calculator to estimate when you’ll finish and see how your prior credits and experience can save you time and money.

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            Ready to Enroll?

            Purdue Global makes the process easy. You can apply online today (self-guided) or contact us to walk you through the process.

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            Upcoming Start Dates

            We offer rolling start dates throughout the year. Choose the one that works best for your schedule.
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            Which Program Is Right for You?

            Discover your interests and set your goals for success. Take our Career Assessment to chart your ideal path.

            Career Assessment
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            Take 3 Weeks to Get to Know Us

            Start an undergraduate program with no financial obligation and no cost to apply.

            Purdue Global Commitment
            “The University really taught me how to teach online. They also taught me how to put together a learning program for adults. I was familiar with teaching children, but the University gave me the tools to successfully reach this different audience.”

            Phillip Collazo

            Master of Science in Higher Education—College Teaching and Learning

            Resources Related to Studying Education

            To help you in your education career goals and options, we have the news and resources you need.

            The Importance of Early Childhood Professionals

            Early childhood professionals are critical to child development. Learn about the responsibilities of early childhood professionals and some of the challenges they face.

            Should You Be a Teacher?

            Teachers can make a lifelong difference in the lives of students and their families. Good communication skills, patience, and a heart for children are some of the important qualities of teachers.

            Education Programs

            Why choose Purdue Global for your associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in education?

            Download the Brochure

            Dedicated Faculty Offer Rich Experience

            Purdue Global faculty members share knowledge gained through the powerful combination of higher learning and real-world industry experience.

            Meet Our Education Faculty

            FAQs

            • There are many things you can do with an education degree depending on the type of education degree or job you seek. However, it is important you meet all the requirements needed to obtain a specific jobs in education. Purdue Global does not guarantee employment placement or career advancement. Actual outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience, and opportunities for employment.

              Below is information about the different occupations that may require an education degree:

              • Adult basic and secondary education and teaching English to speakers of other languages (ESL): Instruct adults and secondary education students in fundamental skills, such as reading and speaking English. Some may also help students earn their high school equivalency credential.
              • Career and technical education teachers:  Work with students in various technical and vocational subjects.
              • High school teachers: Teach at the high school level and prepare students with lessons and skills they will need to attend college and to enter the job market.
              • Instructional coordinators: Responsible for overseeing school curriculums and teaching standards. They may develop, implement and assess instructional material used at schools.
              • Kindergarten and elementary school teachers: Teach young students from kindergarten through 5th grade in basic subjects to set the foundation that prepares them for future schooling.
              • Librarians and library media specialists: Help people find information and conduct research for personal and professional use.
              • Library technicians and assistants: Work with librarians to help manage a library.
              • Middle school teachers: Educate students in sixth through eighth grades.
              • Postsecondary teachers: Educate students beyond the high school level in a variety of academic subjects. May work in colleges and universities.
              • Preschool teachers: Educate and care for children younger than age 5.
              • Special education teachers: Help students who have special needs, including a wide range of learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities.
              • Teacher assistants: Assist a licensed teacher and helps provide additional attention and instruction to students in classrooms requiring additional support.

            • There are varying types of education degrees depending on the area of teaching or education you would like to work in. Below is a list of the degrees in education that Purdue Global offers:

              • AAS in Early Childhood Development
              • BS in Early Childhood Administration
              • MS in Education
              • MS in Educational Psychology
              • MS in Instructional Design and Technology
              • MS in Higher Education
              • Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design and Technology
              • Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation

            Your Path to Success Begins Here

            Connect with an Advisor to explore program requirements, curriculum, credit for prior learning process, and financial aid options.

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            NOTES AND CONDITIONS

            Credit for Prior Learning: Purdue Global does not guarantee transferability of credit. See the University Catalog for the Prior Learning policy.

            Employment and Career Advancement: Purdue Global does not guarantee employment placement or career advancement. Actual outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience and opportunities for employment.

            Tuition Reduction: Contact an Admissions Advisor for details. May not be combined with other Purdue Global tuition reductions or ExcelTrack® pricing. Eligible family members include spouses, domestic partners, parents, siblings, and children.