Master of Arts in Education

Master of Arts in Education (M.A.Ed.)

A Master of Arts (MA) in Education is a graduate-level academic program that focuses on advanced topics in education theory, research, and practice. This degree is designed for educators and individuals interested in pursuing leadership roles in the field of education. Here is an overview of what you can expect in a Master of Arts in Education program

Core Curriculum:Educational Foundations: Courses in this area provide a broad understanding of the historical, philosophical, and sociological foundations of education. This includes exploring the purposes and goals of education and examining the role of education in society.

Curriculum Development and Instruction: Students learn about curriculum design, instructional methods, and assessment strategies. They explore best practices in teaching and learning, curriculum alignment, and the use of technology in education.

Educational Research and Assessment: This area covers research methodologies and techniques used in educational research. Students learn how to critically analyze research studies, design their own research projects, and use data to inform decision-making in educational settings.

Educational Leadership and Administration: Courses on educational leadership focus on principles of leadership, school management, organizational theory, and the development of leadership skills. This is particularly relevant for individuals interested in becoming school administrators or educational leaders.

Special Education and Inclusion: Topics related to special education and inclusive practices are often covered, including strategies for working with students with disabilities, creating inclusive classrooms, and addressing diverse learning needs.

Multicultural Education and Diversity: These courses explore the challenges and opportunities related to cultural diversity and equity in education. Students learn about culturally responsive teaching, anti-bias education, and promoting inclusivity.Technology

Integration: As technology plays a significant role in modern education, courses in this area focus on integrating technology into the classroom and leveraging digital tools for effective teaching and learning.

Specializations: Many MA in Education programs offer specializations or concentrations that allow students to tailor their studies to specific areas of interest. Some common specializations include:

Educational Leadership and Administration: Focused on preparing individuals for leadership roles in schools and educational organizations.

Curriculum and Instruction: Emphasizes curriculum development, instructional design, and assessment strategies.

Special Education: Concentrated on working with students with disabilities and special educational needs.

Early Childhood Education: Focused on teaching and working with young children, typically from birth to age eight.

Higher Education: Geared towards individuals interested in careers in higher education, including college and university settings.

Practical Experience: Many MA in Education programs include a practical component, such as student teaching, internships, or field experiences, where students can apply their knowledge and skills in real educational settings.

Thesis or Capstone Project: Some programs require students to complete a thesis or a capstone project that demonstrates their expertise in a specific area of education.Career

Opportunities: Graduates of MA in Education programs can pursue a wide range of careers in education, including classroom teaching, school administration, curriculum development, educational consulting, research, and leadership roles in educational institutions, nonprofits, and government agencies.Before enrolling in an MA in Education program, individuals should research the specific program's curriculum, faculty qualifications, accreditation status, and any certification or licensure requirements that may apply to their intended career path.

A Master’s in Education (M.Ed) is an advanced degree geared more towards moving beyond the classroom and into the education system itself. Certified teachers and aspiring teachers can pursue an M.Ed and still remain in the classroom, but the Master’s in Education allows for a broader range within the educational sphere. Often, those who pursue ME degrees have ambitions to influence policies and procedures within schools to make a difference in the lives of students. ME degree programs work to ensure that degree seekers understand the systems and mechanisms behind the education system, as well as the best ways to collaborate with peers to influence change. 

The Master of Arts in Education (M.A.Ed.) program is for active educators who want to improve their abilities in the classroom and provide leadership to the education profession. The program is designed to provide the opportunity for current teachers and educators to complete the requirements for the degree in two years while maintaining full-time employment. This program consists of 30 graduate credit hours and is delivered online.

A student may select from one of two concentrations: curriculum & instruction or elementary education.

Program Mission and Outcomes

The mission of the Teacher Education Department is to support and facilitate student success toward academic excellence, Christian character, leadership preparedness, and service commitment.

Students pursuing the M.A.Ed. degree will meet the following two outcomes, which coordinate with Warner University’s mission to provide academic excellence: Master in Arts in Education (MAEd) candidates will successfully design, conduct, write, and present an appropriate graduate-level research study related to the education field in a timely fashion. Master of Arts graduates will compete favorably with peers for employment and for continued graduate-level education.

M.A.Ed. - Concentration in Curriculum and Instruction

EDU 5010 Teaching Diverse Learners in Inclusive Settings 3

EDU 5020 Advanced Reading and Language Arts Methods 3

EDU 5021 Advanced Instructional Methods 3

EDU 5025 Integrative Instructional Technology 3

EDU 5030 Advanced Curriculum and Instructional Design 3

EDU 5040 Research Design and Professional Writing 3

EDU 5050 Advanced Classroom Management 3

EDU 6010 Educational Psychology 3

EDU 6020 Advanced Educational Assessment and Evaluation 3

EDU 6040 Thesis, Action Research or Grant Writing 3

THE AREA OF CONCENTRATION WILL BE FOCUSED ON IN YEAR 2

ME Concentrations and Specializations: ME degree programs will also usually offer specializations designed to allow students to gain a deeper understanding of topics within the field of education. Some examples of ME degree specializations are outlined below:

• Curriculum and Instruction: This major focuses on teaching and learning and is ideal for people who want to begin their teaching career or advance their career with excellent preparation in educational theory. An M.Ed. of Curriculum and Instruction focuses primarily on teaching, public service, and scholarship. You will also gain a better understanding of curriculum development, teacher leadership, and human development.

• Counselor Education: This major is right for you if you are seeking to become a guidance counselor or a school’s mental health professional. Mental health, however, is an entirely different field in and of itself, so if you’re interested in becoming a mental health counselor, you should find out about your specific state’s licensure requirements 

• Educational Administration: This major will prepare you to become a principal or a higher-level school administrator. Coursework in this major is built around educational law, building and community issues, and faculty leadership. Another degree that takes an in-depth look at best practices in education administration and educational leadership is a doctorate of education (also referred to as an EdD).

Masters in Teaching Job Outlook and Salaries

While most states do not require educational professionals to hold an advanced degree, there are a number of benefits to having earned your online master's in teaching. Having an advanced degree, both inside and outside the classroom, provides you with greater career options and the opportunity to earn a higher salary.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2015, common job titles and employment figures for MAT-related occupations include:

Salary Information

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2015, median annual salaries and employment growth through 2024 for MAT-related occupations are:

• Kindergarten and elementary school teachers: $54,550, 6%

• Middle school teachers: $55,860, 6% 

• High school teachers: $57,000, 6% 

• Special education teachers: $56,800, 6% 

• Career and technical education teachers: $52,800, 4%