Online Master of Science in Education

Master Leadership in Education with the Online MS in Education Program

Advance your career with Pepperdine's 15-month, online Master of Science in Education designed to prepare leaders across four in-demand fields through concentrations in:

Organizational Leadership and Learning
Leadership in Higher Education
Leadership in Pre-K to 12 Education
Leadership in Learning Design and Technology

While the program's core curriculum builds critical foundational knowledge, each concentration equips students with the targeted skills needed to drive change and lead effectively in their chosen area. Whether you aim to excel in your current role or advance to the next level, this degree provides the skills and strategies to lead confidently, influence positive change, and make a meaningful impact—all in a flexible online format.

You'll master instructional and leadership theories, apply them to real-world scenarios, and develop competencies in designing and implementing effective learning processes. By the end of the program, you'll be equipped to enhance learning outcomes for diverse audiences in any setting. Become the transformational leader your industry needs—whether in education, business, healthcare, technology, or any other field. This degree will empower you to drive organizational success and stay ahead in today's evolving landscape.

Note: This degree does not lead to licensure for teaching.

Online Program Highlights

In our online MS in education degree, you’ll learn to lead effectively through advanced learning theory — and to foster inclusive learning environments in organizations and academic environments.

Four concentrations available

Specialize your leadership skills to cater to the needs of your industry.

No GRE or standardized tests required

We focus on your commitment to success in our admissions process, not your test scores.

Pathway toward doctorate

Some units, upon acceptance, will apply to your choice of GSEP’s four doctoral programs.

Complete in 15 months

Learn from diverse professionals, entirely online through synchronous live sessions.

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Curriculum

Through an immersive curriculum, you’ll learn to implement seamless and inclusive learning experiences, and practice what you learn throughout your academic journey. The 30-credit curriculum is composed of six core courses, three concentration courses, and a final capstone project.

You’ll learn advanced techniques to gain proficiency in leadership capabilities, and prepare for your target role in one of four concentrations: Leadership in Learning Design and Technology; Leadership in Pre-K to 12 Education; Leadership in Higher Education; and Organizational Leadership and Learning. Students in the program also have the opportunity to engage in an immersion experience on Pepperdine University’s campus in Malibu, California.

(Optional) In-Person Malibu Immersion

The Malibu immersion is an optional course that happens annually during the Fall term. The immersion lasts one weekend and takes place on Pepperdine University’s campus in Malibu, California. In this immersive experience, you will build meaningful connections with peers, faculty, and industry professionals in a collaborative environment; take part in community building and other engaging sessions; and deepen your understanding of your field.

Note: Students are responsible for all travel, accommodation, and for some meals during the immersion.

MS In Education Curriculum

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Admissions Criteria

Pepperdine University seeks applicants from any industry who are dedicated to becoming learning leaders in their organizations. A background of education is not needed to apply to our online MS in education, and the degree does not lead to licensure for teachers. We offer three annual cohorts in September, January, and April. Applicants must meet the following requirements to apply:

A bachelor’s degree in any discipline
A preferred minimum 3.0 GPA
Proof of English language proficiency for international applicants

student and teacher using a laptop

Online Pepperdine University Student Experience

Our online Master of Science in Education program allows you to study from wherever you are. You’ll learn from dedicated faculty who are also experts in their respective fields, and who are ready to enrich your learning experience every step of the way. Our classes, of no more than 20 students, offer an intimate learning experience.

As an online student at Pepperdine University, you'll also benefit from:

New perspectives from faculty and peers of diverse backgrounds.
A global network of more than 20,000 GSEP alumni.
Unparalleled academic support through academic advising, student groups, and more.
Career support, including career education and holistic career counseling.

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Open New Career Paths with a Master of Science in Education

With a master’s degree in education from Pepperdine, you can drive change within your industry through educational leadership — within organizations spanning education to not-for-profits, non-governmental organizations, and private and public industries.

Students with a focus on the education sector often become nonprofit leaders, instructional trainers, higher education administrators, and more. The degree opens doors to a variety of positions in all sectors, including leadership consulting and educational positions in healthcare organizations and faith-based organizations.

What Our Alumni Are Saying

Elias Saade headshot

"I attended info sessions from schools all over, but none stuck out to me like Pepperdine did. It stuck out because of the care that was put into it."

-Elias Saade, MS '20

Ernesto Santiago Elizondo headshot

“It's not the typical professor/student relationship in a traditional setting but rather a mentor and a coach. You are getting the academic side and a more personal approach towards your goals."

-Ernesto Santiago Elizondo, MS '22

Pepperdine is one of the top universities in the United States, known for its dedication to the highest standards of academic excellence. With a respected legacy of producing purpose-driven leaders in education, Pepperdine empowers students to advance their careers and make a meaningful impact in their communities. The online MS in Education program provides a transformative learning experience, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to lead effectively and drive positive change.

Pepperdine University primes students for a life of purpose, service, and leadership. We commit to the highest standards of academic excellence and Christian values.

GSEP Student Services supports our rigorous curricula through academic advising, records, writing support, library, student groups, and much more.
Students are further supported through our Office of Student Accessibility, world-class facilities, and highly competitive programs, all of which contribute to our exceptional programs and rankings.
GSEP Career Services operates from an innovative model of career education and holistic career counseling for today's rapidly changing job market helping students and alumni construct their career narrative, build lifelong employability skills, and connect with alumni and industry leaders.

Our faculty knows that each student provides unique insights capable of enriching their peers’ learning experiences. These dedicated educators embody Pepperdine University’s mission, and help you do the same. You can count on them to serve you and guide you throughout your education.

GSEP faculty are nationally-recognized scholar-practitioners with exemplary academic achievements, industry expertise, educational experience, and scholarly credentials.
Professors are accomplished professionals who balance theory and real-world application in a practitioner-based curriculum informed by their desire to prepare students to make a difference.

Pepperdine has served veterans and their family members for over 75 years and is proud to support nearly 500 enrolled veterans, service members, and dependents.

As an active participant in the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program, we proudly offer tuition support to Yellow Ribbon-eligible students. Pepperdine invests almost $3M annually to help cover 100% of tuition costs for eligible students.

Under the Yellow Ribbon program, Pepperdine in the VA matches all remaining tuition costs. Pepperdine also does not limit the number of eligible students who can utilize the Yellow Ribbon program.

Reputable University

Pepperdine University primes students for a life of purpose, service, and leadership. We commit to the highest standards of academic excellence and Christian values.

Student & Career Support

GSEP Student Services supports our rigorous curricula through academic advising, records, writing support, library, student groups, and much more.
Students are further supported through our Office of Student Accessibility, world-class facilities, and highly competitive programs, all of which contribute to our exceptional programs and rankings.
GSEP Career Services operates from an innovative model of career education and holistic career counseling for today's rapidly changing job market helping students and alumni construct their career narrative, build lifelong employability skills, and connect with alumni and industry leaders.

Hands-on Faculty Support

GSEP faculty are nationally-recognized scholar-practitioners with exemplary academic achievements, industry expertise, educational experience, and scholarly credentials.
Professors are accomplished professionals who balance theory and real-world application in a practitioner-based curriculum informed by their desire to prepare students to make a difference.

Veteran and Military Services

Pepperdine has served veterans and their family members for over 75 years and is proud to support nearly 500 enrolled veterans, service members, and dependents.

Under the Yellow Ribbon program, Pepperdine in the VA matches all remaining tuition costs. Pepperdine also does not limit the number of eligible students who can utilize the Yellow Ribbon program.

Take the Next Step

Earn your online MS in Education in as few as 18 months and apply your education expertise wherever you feel called to serve. Request more information below to get started.