Four concentrations to choose from.
Pepperdine University’s Online Master of Science in Education
Prepare to lead in educational, corporate, nonprofit, and organizational settings with Pepperdine University’s online MS in Education. The program equips professionals with leadership and learning design skills that support effective and inclusive learning experiences across industries.
Advance Your Career With an Online MS in Education
The online Master of Science in Education at Pepperdine University equips professionals across a wide range of industries with inclusive leadership expertise and advanced learning theory, priming the next wave of leaders to advance in public, private, and not-for-profit organizations.
This online Pepperdine University degree combines instructional and leadership theory with real-world application.
Through a flexible online learning experience, students develop practical leadership, instructional strategy, and organizational learning skills.
No GRE, GMAT, or other standardized tests required to apply.
Application fee waivers are available.
Pepperdine University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).1
Online Master of Science in Education Program Highlights
The 30-credit online Master of Science in Education combines leadership development, practical application, and specialised study. Coursework explores topics such as inclusive learning environments, data-informed decision-making, and innovation in education.
| Component | Credits |
|---|---|
Six core courses | 18 credits |
Three concentration-specific courses | 9 credits |
Capstone Integration Experience | 3 credits |
Total | 30 credits |
Optional immersion experience available |
What Are the Admission Requirements for the Pepperdine Online MS in Education?
Cohorts for the online MS in Education begin twice per year, in September and January.
Important Note: The online MS in Education does not prepare students for initial teacher licensure or teaching credentials.
The program is designed for professionals seeking leadership opportunities across industries, including education, healthcare, business, nonprofit organizations, technology, and corporate learning environments. A background in education is not required to apply.
Admission to the program is holistic and considers academic achievement, professional experience, and leadership potential.
Application Requirements
In order to apply, you must have a:
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university
- Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (preferred)
Applicants must submit the following:
- Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
- Two letters of recommendation
- Personal statement outlining professional goals and motivations
- Current résumé or CV (recommended)
- $55 application fee
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS), if applicable
Visit our Application Requirements page for further details.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition is charged per credit unit, and additional university fees may apply.
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
Credits Required | 30 |
Tuition Per Credit | $1,630* |
Estimated Total Tuition | $48,900* |
Additional Fees | Technology and university fees may apply |
*Tuition figures should be verified for the 2026–2027 academic year.
Financial aid opportunities are available for students enrolled in the Pepperdine Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP). Eligible students may explore employer tuition assistance, federal student loans, private loans, and scholarship opportunities to help finance their education.
For more information, visit the Tuition and Financial Aid page.
Pursue a Leadership Role
Learn more about the online Master of Science in Education program from Pepperdine University.
Online Master’s in Education Curriculum Overview
Our online master’s in education curriculum is for professionals from all industries who want to promote learning opportunities within their organizations. You will learn to develop seamless, connected, and inclusive learning experiences and practice what you’ve studied through real-world leadership applications.
The curriculum addresses a wide range of practical, fundamental, and advanced instructional and leadership theory.
You’ll complete core courses and specialize in one of four areas of leadership to prepare for your target role.
While the program is designed to be completed fully online, students may choose to participate in an optional in-person immersion experience on our campus in Malibu, California.
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- Critical Thinking and Communication (3 credits)
- Visual Learning, Collaboration, and Transmedia (3 credits)
- Ethics, Values, and Inclusion (3 credits)
- Program Design and Evaluation (3 credits)
- Applied Analytics and Data Visualization (3 credits)
- Entrepreneurial Leadership for Innovation and Change (3 credits)
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- Concentration in Leadership in Learning Design and Technology (9 credits total)
- New Learning and Emerging Technologies (3 credits)
- Formal Learning: Rethinking Instruction (3 credits)
- Informal Learning: Expanding Learning Spaces (3 credits)
- Concentration in Leadership in Higher Education (9 credits total)
- Higher Education Politics, Governance, and Society (3 credits)
- Student Support and Services in Higher Education (3 credits)
- Economics, Finance, and Policy in Higher Education (3 credits)
- Concentration in Leadership in Pre-K to 12 Education (9 credits total)
- Professional Learning Culture and Instructional Coaching (3 credits)
- Family and Community Engagement (3 credits)
- Policy Management and Learning Environment (3 credits)
- Concentration in Organizational Leadership and Learning (9 credits total)
- Managing Teams and Collaboration (3 credits)
- Organization Design and Culture (3 credits)
- Organizational Management and Stewardship (3 credits)
- Concentration in Leadership in Learning Design and Technology (9 credits total)
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- Capstone Integration Experience (3 credits)
Required Immersion Experience
As part of the program, you’ll participate in a required weekend-long immersion designed to strengthen connections with faculty and classmates and enrich your learning experience. Students may choose to attend in person on Pepperdine’s campus in Malibu, California, or participate virtually.
Course Spotlight
Applied Analytics and Data Visualization
Master quantitative tools, reporting data, and statistical packages to support evidence-based educational improvement.
Entrepreneurial Leadership for Innovation and Change
Develop the mindset and leadership skills needed to guide change and foster innovation across educational and organizational settings.
Ethics, Values, and Inclusion
Explore how leaders create equitable learning environments through the service-oriented mission of Pepperdine University.
Learn From Pepperdine GSEP Faculty
Learn From Pepperdine GSEP Faculty
Associate Professor of Education
Dr. Cain’s work focuses on educational equity, urban school reform, and leadership development. Prior to joining Pepperdine GSEP, she led nonprofit initiatives supporting underserved student communities and previously taught at the University of Southern California. Her research and professional experience bring a strong real-world perspective to organizational and educational leadership.
Assistant Professor of Education
Dr. Lee’s research focuses on collaborative learning, online learning environments, creativity, and STEM education for K–12 students. His work includes National Science Foundation-funded research and expertise in quantitative ethnography and epistemic network analysis (ENA). Before joining Pepperdine, he held policy research and program management roles with UNICEF, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and nonprofit organizations in Korea and the United States.
Career Paths After the Online MS in Education Program
The Pepperdine University online MS in Education prepares professionals for leadership roles across education, nonprofit, corporate, healthcare, and organizational settings. Designed for professionals beyond the classroom, the program develops leadership, learning design, and organizational strategy skills that can be applied across industries.
Graduates may pursue leadership and learning-focused roles such as:
| Career Path | Median Salary | Common Work Setting |
|---|---|---|
Instructional Coordinator | $74,7202 | K-12 schools, higher education, educational support services |
Training and Development Manager | $127,0903 | Corporate, healthcare, technology, and professional services |
Postsecondary Education Administrator | $103,9604 | Colleges and universities |
Social and Community Service Manager | $78,2405 | Nonprofits, NGOs, and community organizations |
Graduates may also apply their leadership and learning expertise across industries such as:
- Corporate and private-sector organizations
- Nonprofit and NGO leadership
- Healthcare organizations
- Faith-based organizations
- Leadership and learning consulting
- Public sector and community organizations
Explore our guide to career paths for MS Education graduates to learn how leadership and learning expertise can translate across industries and organizational settings.
Note: This program is designed to develop leadership and learning expertise. It is not intended as an initial teacher preparation or licensure program. Students seeking initial teacher licensure should explore the university’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program or other approved teacher preparation pathways.
Learn How to Lead
Designed for working professionals, the online MS in Education prepares graduates to lead learning, organizational development, and educational innovation across industries.
FAQs About the Online Master of Science in Education
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Yes, earning a Master of Science in Education entirely online through Pepperdine University is a flexible pathway to advance your career. The online curriculum is built to meet high academic standards and is delivered by Pepperdine GSEP faculty, allowing students to complete their coursework from any location.
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A Master of Science in Education is a worthwhile investment that yields tangible professional benefits. It positions you for increased earning potential and qualifies you for leadership roles beyond the classroom, such as administration or curriculum development. Furthermore, the specialized knowledge gained directly applies to solving complex organizational and learning challenges.
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Pepperdine University, particularly through its Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP), holds a strong reputation for preparing professionals through a collaborative and faith-based approach focused on service and leadership. It is recognized for small class sizes, supportive faculty, and rigorous academic curriculum.
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Yes, an online Master of Science in Education from an accredited institution is well respected by employers. Pepperdine University’s online program adheres to strict institutional quality guidelines and programmatic standards, ensuring that graduates develop the advanced leadership and design skills sought across industries.
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Yes. Pepperdine University’s online MS in Education is offered through the Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP), which is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).6
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Graduates may pursue leadership roles in instructional design, higher education administration, corporate learning and development, nonprofit leadership, organizational training, and educational consulting.
For a deeper dive, explore our blog on 16 Career Paths for MS in Education Graduates.
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Historically, yes. Public school teachers who hold a master’s degree typically earn significantly higher salaries than those with only a bachelor’s degree. This difference often stems from district-level pay scales that include automatic salary bumps upon completion of a graduate degree.
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The choice between an MEd and an MA depends on your career goals. An MEd (Master of Education) typically focuses on educational leadership, professional practice, and teaching effectiveness, preparing professionals for administrative and practitioner roles. An MA (Master of Arts) often leans toward specialized academic fields, curriculum theory, or deeper research, depending on the concentration.
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No, the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), or any other standardized tests are not required for admission to the Master of Science in Education program.
Pepperdine University partners with 2U to support the delivery of these online programs. Pepperdine University has full control over the programs, including all core academic functions. Click here to learn more about 2U’s roles and responsibilities.
- Accreditation. (2026). Pepperdine University. Retrieved June 4, 2026. ↩︎
- Instructional Coordinators. (2025). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved June 3, 2026. ↩︎
- Training and Development Managers. (2025). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved June 3, 2026. ↩︎
- Postsecondary Education Administrators. (2025). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved June 3, 2026. ↩︎
- Social and Community Service Managers. (2025). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved June 3, 2026. ↩︎
- Accreditation. (2026). Pepperdine University. Retrieved June 4, 2026. ↩︎