Masters degrees in distance learning are conferred by a number of colleges and universities. The Masters program is offered in various subjects including Education in eLearning, Teaching Online Specializations, Instructional Design for Online Learning, etc. Masters degree specializations provide effectiveness and expertise in diverse educational settings like traditional, corporate as well as online education. Admission requirements for Masters degree courses in distance learning are a Bachelors degree from a regionally or internationally accredited university accompanied by GPA of 2.7 or higher on the scale of 4.0. Minimum 3 years work experience in educational settings after graduation is essential.
Description of Masters degree programs
Masters degrees in distance learning prepare students in using internet resources effectively. These programs also teach how to use distance learning technology in delivering education with focus on how to construct effective instruction materials and rich learning environments for a variety of learners. The programs cover all the minute details like multiple distance education modalities, assessment and evaluation, distance education strategies for different learners from various backgrounds. At present Masters degree programs offer specializations in mainly three fields, which are Adult Education, Instructional Design and Distance Learning Technology and Administration of institutes offering distance education courses.
Universities Offering Masters Degrees in Distance Learning
University of Maryland University College offers a Master of Distance Education online. This is a 36 credit hour degree program consisting of seven core courses and four elective courses. This course is designed for employed educational professionals to prepare them to be competent enough to manage distance education enterprises within educational, Government and non profit organizations. Course work includes planning, budgeting, development, delivery and support of distance learning and distance training programs.
Touro University offers a unique online post graduate degree program in Education eLearning, which has no residency requirements. This program prepares students for leadership qualities in the field of distance learning with a focus on elearning. Students gain expertise in various tools and technology for delivering distance education.
The University of Phoenix Online is the largest accredited private university. It provides a number of Masters degree programs in Education. Master of Arts with specialization in Adult Education and Distance Learning is one of them. This program covers adult learning theories, multiple distance education modalities, instructional design, assessment and evaluation techniques, tools and technology associated with distance education.
Masters degrees in distance learning provide an enriching experience on a personal as well as professional level. They are helpful in achieving career goals and professional advancement.
