7 Best Low GPA Online Master’s in Education Programs

7 Best Low GPA Online Master’s in Education Programs
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Dr. Jed Macosko
Published:

Key Takeaways

  • If you had a low GPA when earning a bachlor’s degree, there are still top-ranked online master’s programs in education for you.
  • Many online programs have no requirement on GPA at all.
  • Some colleges may require additional documentation or GRE scores if you had a less-than-stellar GPA during your undergraduate studies.

Low GPA Online Master's in Education Programs

Sort by:
  1. Colorado State University
  2. Emporia State University
  3. Walden University
  4. Purdue Global
  5. Northcentral University
  6. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
  7. Concordia University
  1. Colorado State University
  2. Emporia State University
  3. Walden University
  4. Purdue Global
  5. Northcentral University
  6. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
  7. Concordia University
  1. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota 97%
  2. Emporia State University 96%
  3. Colorado State University 91%
  1. Purdue Global 26 to 1
  2. Walden University 21 to 1
  3. Colorado State University 17 to 1
  4. Emporia State University 17 to 1
  5. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota 17 to 1
  6. Northcentral University 1 to 1
  1. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota $41,150
  2. Walden University $12,483
  3. Northcentral University $11,064
  4. Purdue Global $10,080
  5. Colorado State University $9,903
  6. Emporia State University $5,278
  1. Northcentral University $16,794
  2. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota $11,835
  3. Colorado State University $10,834
  4. Walden University $9,902
  5. Purdue Global $9,472
  6. Emporia State University $6,547
  1. Concordia University
  2. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
  3. Northcentral University
  4. Purdue Global
  5. Walden University
  6. Emporia State University
  7. Colorado State University
  1. Concordia University
  2. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
  3. Northcentral University
  4. Purdue Global
  5. Walden University
  6. Emporia State University
  7. Colorado State University
  1. Colorado State University 91%
  2. Emporia State University 96%
  3. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota 97%
  1. Northcentral University 1 to 1
  2. Colorado State University 17 to 1
  3. Emporia State University 17 to 1
  4. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota 17 to 1
  5. Walden University 21 to 1
  6. Purdue Global 26 to 1
  1. Emporia State University $5,278
  2. Colorado State University $9,903
  3. Purdue Global $10,080
  4. Northcentral University $11,064
  5. Walden University $12,483
  6. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota $41,150
  1. Emporia State University $6,547
  2. Purdue Global $9,472
  3. Walden University $9,902
  4. Colorado State University $10,834
  5. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota $11,835
  6. Northcentral University $16,794

Embarking on the quest for a master’s degree in education online with a less-than-stellar GPA can feel like navigating a maze with no exit. That said, we know where there is a will, there is a way. Let’s find out where to get a master’s degree in education online with a low GPA. 

After graduation, it gets challenging to find good institutions to attend graduate school, especially for students with low GPAs.

We have connected the dots and found the best low-GPA online master’s in education programs. In this article, we’ll share our research so you can save time and apply directly to the right universities.

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Featured Programs

Where to Get a Master’s Degree In Education Online Low GPA

Many students fail to maintain their GPA after low scores in the first semester. If you were one of them, here are five of the best universities that accept low GPAs for enrollment in master’s programs in education.

  1. #1

    Colorado State University

    Fort Collins , CO
    #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Colorado 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in Colorado 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Colorado 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Colorado 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    91%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    37K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1185/26

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Colorado State University

    Cost of Degree: $13,490
    Expenses: $17,575
    Starting Salary: $62,631
    Salary after 4 years: $70,104
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Colorado State University is an affordable state college that offers a range of graduate teacher education programs. While the GPA requirement can be flexible for certain applicants, the Master of Natural Sciences Education (MNSE) program is a standout option.

    Key Features

    • 50+ years of experience in distance education.
    • The MNSE program is tailored for current science teachers seeking to enhance their knowledge or science professionals pursuing a career in teaching.
    • No GRE is required for the MNSE program.
    • Students can participate in online, asynchronous courses.
    • Degree Specialization Options: Natural Sciences Education

    What we love about Colorado State University:

    Colorado State University offers affordable education, diverse graduate teacher programs, experienced distance education, and a standout Master of Natural Sciences Education.

    Colorado State University is ideal for students who:

    Seek affordable education, diverse graduate programs, flexible GPA requirements, and exceptional opportunities in natural sciences education.

    Colorado State University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Require a highly structured traditional campus experience.

    Compare school
  2. #2

    Emporia State University

    Emporia , KS
    #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Kansas 2024 #3 Best Small Colleges in Kansas 2024 #5 Best Grad Schools in Kansas 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges in Kansas 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    96%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    7K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Emporia State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,532
    Expenses: $14,658
    Starting Salary: $47,267
    Salary after 4 years: $52,906
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Emporia State University has a long history of helping educators prepare for their careers, dating back to 1863. You can take graduate programs both on-campus in Emporia, Kansas, and online.

    The GPA requirements vary by program. The Health, Physical Education, and Recreation program requires a cumulative GPA of 2.5. Meanwhile, the Master of Education in Teaching program mandates a 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credits of college coursework.

    Key Features 

    • Known for its experienced education faculty, who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to their graduate programs.
    • Offers a unique Health, Physical Education, and Recreation (HPER) program that students can complete online. This online format provides flexibility for students with busy schedules or who prefer distance learning.
    • The HPER graduate program at ESU focuses on sports and physical education. This includes studying biomechanics (the study of body movement) and exercise metabolism (how the body processes energy during physical activity).
    • Degree Specialization Options:
      • Special Education
      • Curriculum in Teaching
      • Early Childhood Education
      • Reading Education
      • English language Learning
      • Trauma-Informed Educational Practices
      • Adult Learning and Workforce Education
      • Athletic Coaching
      • Instructional Leadership
      • Leadership in Higher Education
      • Organizational Leadership
      • School Safety, Security, and Emergency Management
      • Sport and Athletic Management
      • E-Learning
      • General Education
      • Global Training and Development
      • International Education

    What we love about Emporia State University:

    Emporia State University stands out with its rich history, diverse graduate programs, experienced faculty, and flexible online options.

    Emporia State University is ideal for students who:

    Want highly flexible online programs that are on par with their on-campus programs

    Emporia State University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer large urban campuses over small schools

    Compare school
  3. #3

    Walden University

    Minneapolis , MN
    #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota 2024 #1 Top 10 Fastest Accelerated Online PhD in Criminal Justice (Doctorates) #1 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Social Work PhDs (Doctorates) #1 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice PhDs (Doctorates)
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Student body

    74K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Walden University

    Cost of Degree: $10,381
    Starting Salary: $71,831
    Salary after 4 years: $82,834

    Walden University is an accredited affordable online university that caters to graduate students with its online teacher education programs. The university has no minimum GPA requirement for admission, making it especially attractive if your GPA is very low.

    Key Features

    • Online EdD program that is NCATE-accredited.
    • Specializations include Special Education, Educational Technology, Curriculum, Instruction, and assessment.
    • Walden provides two-course delivery options:
      1. Traditional track: Take one course at a time, ideal for working education professionals.
      2. Fast track: This enables you to complete two courses simultaneously.
    • Degree Specialization Options:
      • Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
      • Master of Arts in Special Education
      • Master of Education in Learning Design & Technology
      • Master of Arts in Teaching,
      • Master of Arts in English as a Second Language

    What we love about Walden University:

    Walden is recognized for providing affordable and comprehensive online programs that are easily accessible to students.

    Walden University is ideal for students who:

    Possess time management skills and thrive in independent study environments.

    Walden University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Seek the traditional college experience with campus-based learning opportunities.

    Compare school
    4. A narrow aisle of books filling the shelves in a library
  5. #4

    Purdue Global

    West Lafayette , IN
    #10 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2024 #12 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in Indiana 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Indiana 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Graduation

    20%

    Student body

    66K

    Purdue University Global is a part of the well-reputed Purdue University system. It specializes in flexible learning options tailored for working adults. You can get a variety of online master’s programs in education.

    Purdue Global’s Master of Arts in Teaching program includes a certification track designed for aspiring Iowa teachers. It involves a student-teaching experience and a non-certification track suitable. The program is best for students in other states.

    The university covers fields from instructional technology, higher education, secondary education, and more. The best part? There is no restriction on GPA. Some programs that they offer include:

    • M.S. in Higher Education – Student Affairs
    • M.S. in Education (for Existing Teachers, Grades K-12)
    • M.A. in Teaching (for Aspiring Teachers, Grades 5-12)
    • Master of Science in Instructional Technology – Adults
    • M.A. in Teaching

    Key Features

    • Online interactive classrooms or campus programs provide flexibility for diverse learning preferences.
    • Many courses are available to cater to students entering the university throughout the year.  
    • The Classroom Pathways Bundle aids students in pursuing certification in specific states while earning an M.A. in teaching online.

    What we love about Purdue Global:

    Purdue Global is known for its flexible online learning, broad academic programs, skilled teachers, career-focused curriculum, and supportive student services.

    Purdue Global is ideal for students who:

    Purdue Global offers flexible online and campus programs with diverse courses and certification pathways, catering to students year-round.

    Purdue Global might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prioritize a traditional campus-based learning experience over flexible online options.

    Compare school
  6. #5

    Northcentral University

    San Diego , CA
    #9 Best Online Colleges for Students Who Work Part-Time #4 Accelerated Online Business Administration PhD Programs (Doctorates) #6 Top 10 Most Affordable English PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024 #7 Top 10 Best Online PhD of Information Technology Programs (Doctorates)
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Student body

    16K

    Northcentral University stands out for its flexibility, as it doesn’t have a minimum GPA requirement.

    It is a regionally accredited online institution. Graduate teacher education programs at NCU include affordable Education doctorate programs, Ph.D., specialist, and financially flexible online master’s programs.

    Key Features

    • Offers a unique one-on-one learning model, providing students with personalized attention.
    • A faculty comprising only doctoral degree holders
    • Has a flexible academic calendar. Every week, a new course starts here, allowing students to begin their studies at a time that suits their schedule.
    • The Education Specialist degree offers specializations, including special education, curriculum and teaching, and English language learning.

    What we love about Northcentral/National University:

    Whole Human Education™ at National University is its innovative approach, offering 190+ career-relevant programs, achievable course structures, and flexible online options, along with comprehensive support services for student success in all aspects of life.

    Northcentral/National University is ideal for students who:

    Seek accessible higher education tailored to their busy schedules, with accelerated courses, monthly start dates, and abundant financial assistance opportunities.

    Northcentral/National University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer a traditional, slower-paced learning environment or extensive on-campus interactions.

    Compare school
    7. Woman looking through her notes on a cluttered table with several books and papers on it
  7. #6

    Saint Mary's University of Minnesota

    Winona , MN
    #9 Best Grad Schools in Minnesota 2024 #10 Best Christian Colleges Minnesota 2024 #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Minnesota #7 Best Online Master's Programs in Minnesota 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $41K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    6K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota

    Cost of Degree: $11,835
    Expenses: $13,720
    Starting Salary: $57,924
    Salary after 4 years: $66,798
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is a private, nonprofit institution. It focuses on the success of students, offering over 60 graduate and professional degree programs.

    The list includes a diverse range of master’s in education programs, including:

    • Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
    • Master of Arts in Special Education
    • Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology
    • M.A. in Teaching
    • Master of Arts in English as a Second Language

    It is perfect for those interested in teaching careers. You can get into Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota with a GPA as low as 2.75.

    The institute is dedicated to helping educators at any point in their careers. Whether it’s for initial licensure, exploring new educational fields, leadership, administration, or other areas – this is one of the best schools in the U.S.

    Key Features

    • Online and classroom learning, tailored for busy students with jobs.
    • Offering various start dates throughout the year for greater flexibility.
    • Option to study online or at various locations in the Twin Cities, Rochester, Winona, greater Minnesota, and Wisconsin.

    What we love about Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota:

    Committed to student achievement. Accessibility and assistance for educators at all stages are important.

    Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is ideal for students who:

    Value a supportive environment, diverse graduate programs, and comprehensive support for educators.

    Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prioritize large campus environments or seek specialized non-education programs.

    Compare school
  9. #7

    Concordia University

    Concordia University-Portland offers a compelling mix of online and on-campus M.Ed. programs. GPA requirements are flexible here, with conditional acceptance available for applicants with a GPA below 2.8. However, they must submit additional documents.

    Key Features

    • Flexibility to pursue your Master of Education (M.Ed.) either 100% online or in person on the campus located in Portland, Oregon.
    • A supportive learning environment with small, closely-knit cohorts, allowing for personalized attention and interaction with fellow students.
    • Bring real-world expertise to the classroom with experienced tutors.
    • A unique aspect of Concordia is the 3 to Ph.D. campus, where you can find a PreK-8 school alongside the College of Education.
    Compare school
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How to Get into Graduate School Even When You Have a Low GPA

If your GPA was less than stellar, there are still ways to demonstrate to a college or university that you can succeed in an online master’s of education program. Here are some things you can do to get accepted into the graduate school of your choice:

  • Contact the admissions office.Your first stop should always be the graduate school admissions office. As you have seen in our ranking, there are a number of schools that accept low GPAs, but there are many other colleges that offer alternative requirements for students who don’t have stellar GPAs.
  • Take the GRE or GMAT. For education degrees, the GRE is your best bet. The GRE tests you in verbal, quantitative, writing, and critical thinking skills. A high score on the GRE can help you to prove to the admissions department that you are ready for graduate school, despite a low GPA.
  • Take a college course. If you struggled with a particular subject area in your undergraduate coursework, proving to a grad school that you can succeed can go a long way in convincing the school to grant you admission.
  • Write a personal essay. A really great personal essay can give you the opportunity to explain your growth and how you have overcome any obstacles you encountered during your education, such as ways you have gained maturity, relevant work experience, additional education, etc., which may help to offset your low GPA.
  • Get a few letters of recommendation. A strong letter of recommendation from a former or current supervisor that explains your skills and your readiness to pursue an online master’s in education degree can be a real asset.
  • Play up your relevant work experience. If you are currently in a job in the same field as the master’s degree in education that you are interested in, highlighting the skills you’ve gained in that job can give the admissions department the chance to see that your experience can contribute to your education goals.

Student Submitted Questions About Low GPA Online Master’s in Education Degrees

What is the lowest GPA that a graduate can have and still be accepted into a master’s degree program?

The lowest GPA accepted to get into a master’s degree program depends on the specific university. Many programs require 3.0; some will admit students with a minimum GPA of 3.5, while others accept 2.0 as their minimum.

Can a student who graduates with a 2.2 GPA still be accepted into a master’s program in the USA?

Yes! There are many master’s programs in different U.S. universities where students who graduate with a 2.2 GPA can still get in.

What can I do to still get into an online master’s in education program if my GPA is too low?

You likely will not be able to hide your GPA. However, if your undergraduate GPA was particularly low, and you still want to go to graduate school, there are several things that can offset a low GPA:

  • A high score on the GRE or GMAT
  • Strong recommendation letters
  • Relevant work experience
  • A compelling personal statement
  • An interview with the admissions office, allowing you an opportunity to petition for admission, even conditional admission

The admissions office may even offer advice on ways to strengthen your application despite your low GPA. There are many schools where a low GPA is just one piece of the puzzle, and may not carry as much weight as other factors like work and research experience, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. Remember, that it never hurts to ask.

Are there alternative pathways to graduate school for students with low GPAs?

The college or university may be willing to explore alternative options with you, such as conditional admission, certificate programs, or post-baccalaureate programs as alternative routes to pursuing further education. This doesn’t mean that your chances of gaining admission in an education graduate program will never happen. Once you can prove your success in these alternatives, admission into a master’s in education program may be more likely.

What is conditional admission?

Conditional admission is an agreement between a college and a student. The college agrees to admit a student on the condition that they fulfill specific requirements or criteria, typically within a probationary period. Conditional admission can be can be a great alternative for students who may have extenuating circumstances that affected their past academic performance.

Here’s how conditional admission typically works:

  • Conditions for acceptance: An offer of admission is extended to the student with conditions attached. The student must meet these conditions to secure full admission. Often, the conditions are related to academic performance.
  • Probationary Period: The student is typically given a specified period, such as one or two semesters, to fulfill whatever conditions have been set by the school.
  • Specific Requirements: The conditions vary from school to school, but common conditions include achieving a minimum GPA, completing prerequisite courses, or achieving a minimum score on standardized tests like the GRE or GMAT.
  • Evaluation and Review: At the end of the probationary period, the school evaluates whether the student has met the conditions outlined in the conditional admission offer.
  • Transition to Full Admission: If the student has met all the conditions of the conditional offer within the probationary period, they are usually granted full admission to the program.

Is a 2.8 undergraduate GPA good enough for a master’s program in Germany?

The minimum GPA requirement for graduate schools in Germany is 2.5, so a 2.8 GPA is good enough for you to qualify.

Bottom Line

Remember, a low GPA should not keep you from pursuing your dream career. Most universities — even the top-ranking ones — do not consider a low GPA a deal breaker. This is especially true for post-graduate degrees. Check out this list of best universities offering online master’s programs with a low GPA, and set on the path to pursue your dream career in education.

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