Strayer University’s Online Teaching Degree: A Comprehensive Guide
Strayer University is a well-recognized institution offering a wide range of career-focused degrees. For aspiring and experienced educators seeking to refine their teaching skills, Strayer provides specialized graduate programs designed to enhance professional expertise and leadership in educational settings. While the university does not offer undergraduate teaching degrees, its Master of Educational Design and Technology is a standout choice for educators looking to integrate cutting-edge technology into their teaching methods and explore innovative approaches to education.
This comprehensive guide delves into the features, benefits, and opportunities available through Strayer’s online teaching programs, helping you make an informed decision about pursuing your next academic step.
What Strayer University Offers
Master of Educational Design and Technology
Strayer’s online teaching-focused program is tailored for educators who wish to develop expertise in leveraging modern technology to improve learning outcomes. The program is ideal for professionals in teaching, instructional design, or educational leadership roles.
Key Program Features:
- Technology Integration: Learn how to apply advanced educational tools like artificial intelligence, virtual reality, gamification, and e-learning platforms to create engaging and effective learning environments.
- Flexible Learning: Entirely online courses allow students to balance studies with professional and personal commitments.
- Real-World Application: The curriculum emphasizes hands-on projects and practical skills applicable in diverse educational contexts, from schools to corporate training environments.
Specializations Within the Program
- Instructional Design and Technology:
- Focuses on creating effective e-learning modules.
- Prepares students to design courses for online education platforms.
- Technology Innovations for Education:
- Emphasizes emerging technologies in teaching.
- Explores integrating tools like social media, VR, and AI into educational practices.
- Educational Administration:
- Develops skills for leadership roles in educational institutions.
- Addresses topics like policy, school governance, and strategic decision-making【120†source】【121†source】.
Benefits of Strayer’s Online Teaching Programs
1. Flexibility for Working Professionals
Strayer’s online format is especially advantageous for teachers and educators juggling work and study. The asynchronous course structure allows students to access learning materials and complete assignments at their convenience. This flexibility is critical for busy professionals seeking to advance their careers without stepping away from their current roles.
2. Cutting-Edge Technology Training
The program prepares educators to meet the demands of a digital-first world. By incorporating technology into lesson plans, educators can better engage students and improve learning outcomes. Topics such as gamification, digital citizenship, and instructional design are covered extensively.
3. Career Advancement Opportunities
Graduates of Strayer’s teaching programs can pursue diverse roles, including:
- Curriculum Developer
- Instructional Coordinator
- Educational Consultant
- Training and Development Manager in corporate settings
These roles often benefit from the ability to design, implement, and manage innovative learning strategies—a key focus of Strayer’s curriculum.
4. Accreditation and Quality Assurance
Strayer University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). This ensures that its programs meet rigorous academic standards, offering a recognized and respected qualification upon graduation【121†source】.
Who Should Consider This Program?
Strayer’s online teaching degree is particularly well-suited for:
- Experienced Teachers: Those looking to modernize their teaching practices and advance to leadership or administrative roles.
- Corporate Trainers: Professionals in the corporate world who design and implement training programs.
- Aspiring Instructional Designers: Individuals seeking to build a career in e-learning and educational technology.
Program Details
Duration and Structure
The Master of Educational Design and Technology consists of 10 courses, each lasting 11 weeks. Students typically dedicate 10–14 hours per week per course. Depending on the number of courses taken per term, students can complete the program in approximately 1–2 years.
Tuition Costs
Each course costs around $1,680. Additional expenses, such as textbooks and fees, may apply. However, Strayer offers scholarships and partnerships with organizations to help reduce tuition costs. For general education courses, students can access no-cost options through Sophia Learning, a Strayer affiliate【121†source】.
Key Considerations
Licensure Requirements
Strayer’s programs do not directly prepare graduates for public school teaching licensure. Individuals interested in becoming licensed teachers should consult their state’s education board for specific requirements. While Strayer’s degrees offer valuable skills, additional certifications or degrees may be necessary for teaching roles in public education【121†source】.
Workload and Time Management
Online learning requires a strong commitment to time management. Strayer’s program is intensive, and students should be prepared to allocate sufficient time for coursework, projects, and self-study.
Comparison to Other Online Programs
While Strayer’s online teaching programs offer unique strengths, it’s important to compare them to other institutions to ensure the best fit for your goals.
Advantages of Strayer:
- Focus on educational technology and innovation.
- Flexible online learning tailored for working adults.
- Accredited and well-respected institution.
Potential Alternatives:
- University of Southern California (USC): Offers a Master’s in Teaching online, emphasizing pedagogy and student-centered learning.
- Walden University: Provides various online degrees in education, including a Doctorate in Education (EdD) for advanced leadership roles.
- Arizona State University (ASU): Known for its online teaching degrees with a focus on inclusion and diversity in education.
Is Strayer the Right Choice for You?
Strayer University’s online teaching degree programs are ideal for professionals seeking to integrate innovative technology into their teaching or transition to leadership roles in education. The flexibility, affordability, and career-focused curriculum make Strayer an attractive choice for educators and instructional designers.
However, aspiring public school teachers or those seeking state licensure should carefully evaluate Strayer’s offerings against their career requirements. Exploring state-specific licensure prerequisites or alternative programs may be necessary to ensure alignment with professional goals.
Conclusion
Strayer University’s online teaching degree programs offer a powerful blend of technology integration, flexibility, and practical application. For educators looking to embrace modern teaching methodologies or step into leadership roles, Strayer provides the tools and knowledge to succeed in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.
