masters in education january start

Ultimate Guide To Online Master’s In Education Programs

Earning a master’s degree in education is an excellent way for educators and teachers to unlock career opportunities, increase earning potential, and expand their knowledge. According to the  U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics  (BLS), the median annual wage for education occupations was $52,380 in May 2020. Educators with a graduate-level degree have the ability to earn more, especially if expanding to administration and counseling. 

This educational guide decodes the different options available including master of arts in teaching (MAT) and master of education (M.Ed.) as well as online versus on-campus options. Read on for more information about this exciting degree opportunity for educators. 

What Is An Online Master’s Degree In Education?

A master’s in education is an advanced degree for teachers and educators that is typically earned in two to four years. It is considered a graduate-level degree and not a terminal degree. Educators have the ability to earn a  doctorate  after graduating with a master’s degree. 

Many teachers seek a master’s in education, which provides an in-depth study of a specific facet of education, examines the latest research-based education practices, and prepares graduates for leadership and administrative roles. Individuals that are specifically interested in working as an academic advisor or  school principal  will need a master’s degree in order to achieve their career goal. 

There are several types of master’s degrees available to interested individuals. The most popular are the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) and Master of Education (MEd). These focus on both the academic teaching aspect as well as administrative roles. 

Best Schools With Degrees in Education

Finding the perfect graduate degree program can be overwhelming especially with so many available options, particularly online. Universities.com has compiled a list of the top 10 education colleges in the U.S. These programs all offer multiple education specialties for graduate students, are accredited, affordable, and have high student satisfaction. 

• Walden University
• Concordia University – Texas
• Harvard University
• National University
• Azusa Pacific University
• University of California – Los Angeles
• Ohio State University – Main Campus
• Stanford University
• Nova Southeastern University
• University of California – Berkeley

Check out Universities.com’s  full list of schools that offer education degrees .

If you’re looking for other schools that offer Master’s in Education programs, check out the Find Your Perfect “U” tool. You can search over 6,000 colleges and universities with 11 different filters to find the  perfect school for you !

What Can I Do With A Master’s Degree In Education?

Earning a master’s degree in education can open countless career opportunities beyond teaching in the classroom. However, it can also advance your teaching career in the classroom. Possible career opportunities include, 

• Academic advisor
• Adult literacy coach
• Art teacher
• Career counselor
• Corporate trainer
• Curriculum consultant
• Curriculum designer
• Curriculum developer
• Director of digital learning
• District administrator
• Educational coordinator
• Education consultant
• Education policy analyst
• Elementary school teacher
• English teacher
• Gifted and talented program director
• Guidance counselor
• Gym teacher
• High school teacher
• Instructional coordinator
• Instructional designer
• Kindergarten teacher
• Literacy specialist
• Middle school teacher
• Museum educator
• Music teacher
• Private tutor
• Program director
• School principal
• School psychologist
• School superintendent
• Special education teacher
• Standardized test developer
• TESOL or ESL teacher
• Test prep specialist
• Textbook author
• Training and development specialist
• Vice principal

How Much Do Teachers With A Master’s Degree Make?

According to the  BLS , the median annual wage for education occupations was $52,380 in May 2020, which was higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of $41,950. For example, 

• Adult literacy and high school equivalency diploma teachers – $55,350
• Career and technical education teachers – $59,140
• High school teachers – $62,870
• Instructional coordinators – $66,970
• Kindergarten and elementary school teachers – $60,660
• Middle school teachers – $60,810
• Postsecondary teachers – $80,560
• Special education teachers – $61,500

The  National Center for Education Statistics  shows the average national salary for teachers working in public schools, by the highest degree earned and years of teaching experience. For example, even if two teachers both have 6-9 years of experience, a teacher with a bachelor’s degree earns $45,390 while a teacher with a master’s degree earns $52,750, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

According to the  National Council on Teacher Quality , the average teacher with a master’s degree earns an additional $2,760 their first year after graduating. This could grow to $7,358 upon peak career wages. 

Teacher Job Projections

Employment in education, training, and library occupations is projected to grow 5 percent from 2019 to 2029, according to the BLS. This is faster than the average for all occupations with an expected 441,000 new jobs to be added from 2019 to 2029. While there is growth in this field, it does not guarantee a job. For example, large urban public schools are in need of educators whereas wealthier suburban public schools might not have vacancies. 

Potential Master’s in Education Careers

• Median Salary: $59,140 
• Career Outlook: +5% (2020-2030)

Career and technical education (CTE) teachers provide training in subjects such as auto repair, cosmetology, and culinary arts. They teach vocational and technical content to give students the skills and knowledge necessary to enter an occupation.

• Median Salary: $98,490 
• Career Outlook: +8% (2020-2030)

Elementary, middle, and high school principals oversee all school operations, including daily school activities. They coordinate curriculums, manage staff, and provide a safe and productive learning environment for students.

• Median Salary: $66,970 
• Career Outlook: +10% (2020-2030)

Instructional coordinators need a master’s degree and related work experience, such as teaching or in school administration.

• Median Salary: $61,500 

Special education teachers work with students who have learning, mental, emotional, or physical disabilities. They adapt general education lessons and teach various subjects to students with mild to moderate disabilities. They also teach basic skills to students with severe disabilities.

• Median Salary: $80,560 
• Career Outlook: +12% (2020-2030)

Postsecondary teachers instruct students in a wide variety of academic and career and technical subjects beyond the high school level. They may also conduct research and publish scholarly papers and books.

• Median Salary: $97,500 

Postsecondary education administrators oversee student services, academics, and faculty research at colleges and universities. Their job duties vary depending on the department in which they work, such as admissions, student affairs, or the registrar’s office.

 Source: BLS 

Earning A Master’s Degree Education

A master’s degree in education is a post-undergraduate degree focusing on leadership, curriculum, and instructional development for teachers and/or administrators. While not required for all teachers, a master’s degree can help increase career opportunities, salary potential, and networking options. Teachers also commonly earn advanced degrees in order to fulfill continuing education requirements to renew their teaching certificates and develop their teaching skills.  

Types of Education Master’s Programs

There are two main graduate degrees available to educators: master of arts in teaching (MAT) and master of education (MEd). However, there are other options available including master of arts in teaching (MAT) and master of science in teaching (MST). There is  debate about which degree is best  for specific individuals and career paths but ultimately it is up to you to decide which option is best for your career and goals.  

Related:  MEd vs MAT: Which Education Degree Should You Get?

Online Master Of Education Specializations

Some options for specializations with an education degree include:

• Elementary Education
• Secondary Education
• Adult Education and Training
• Curriculum and Instruction for Educators
• Instructional Design and Technology
• Leadership of Educational Organizations
• Special Education
• School counseling
• English as a Second Language
• Education Administration

Graduate Education Degree Coursework

Specific courses will vary depending on the type of graduate program and course study as well as program but most students can expect to take similar courses throughout the program, 

• Curriculum development
• Instructional design
• Universal classroom design
• Motivating today’s learners
• Wellness and the educator
• Legal and ethical issues
• Effective learning assessment
• Leadership theory
• Integrated learning
• Technology in education
• Education research methodology
• Social justice and educational equality
• Data driven decision making
• Qualitative methods in educational research
• Cognition and learning
• Foundations of creativity
• Conflict resolution

Skills Learned in a Education Program

Graduate school can propel educators forward in their careers because of the advanced skills learned. Specific skills will depend on the type of graduate program and focus. You can expect to learn the following skills throughout your graduate program:

• Broader knowledge of discipline
• Clarity of effective writing and speaking
• Integrity and ethical conduct
• Societal and civic responsibilities
• Teaching competence
• Improved communication and interpersonal skills
• Critical and creative thinking

Choosing The Best Online Master’s Degree In Education

An online program might be the best fit for you and your family because of the cost, flexibility, and availability. This type of program is especially promising for those that live in rural areas where there may not be any local in-person graduate programs available. Choosing an online program can be taxing because there are so many options available but it is essential to make sure the program is accredited. 

Teacher Licensure

Teachers are required to hold state licensure and certifications when actively working as an educator. This license proves that an educator has completed certain state-mandated requirements and has passed all state-mandated teaching examinations. Because educators are licensed, it is even more important to make sure that the graduate program is accredited. 

Online vs. On Campus Education Degrees

Oftentimes, educators will have many options for graduate school including online degree options or on-campus options. Determining which fit is best for you and your family is the first step in deciding if a program is right for you or not. 

Many educators opt to complete their  master’s degree online  because online programs are convenient, particularly for working teachers. They offer:

• Flexibility with scheduling
• Convenience to take your class from anywhere at anytime
• Wider range of graduate programs to choose from
• Retain current employment
• Freedom to work at your own pace
• In many cases, a cheaper price tag than on-campus options
• No on campus commute

On-campus options do have a lot of benefits if it is a feasible option for you. These include,

• Face to face learning with professor
• Socialization with like minded professionals
• Consistent schedule
• Establish connections and networking opportunities
• Active discussion opportunities

Graduate programs are usually designed for working professionals. What does this mean? In-person classes are held at night to accommodate teachers’ work schedules and are consistently held on the same night(s) of the week throughout the duration of the program.

Accreditation

Ensuring a graduate program is accredited is key for anyone interesting in pursuing a master’s in education. Accreditation is the process that evaluates graduate programs to determine if it is meeting specific state and national standards. This is a voluntary process but most major universities and colleges are accredited.  According to the U.S. Department of Education, accreditation is meant to:

• Assess the quality of academic programs at institutions of higher education.
• Create a culture of continuous improvement of academic quality at colleges and universities and stimulate general raising of standards among educational institutions.
• Involve faculty and staff comprehensively in institutional evaluation and planning.
• Establish criteria for professional certification and licensure and for upgrading courses offering such preparation.

Accredited programs benefit students in many ways, including, 

• Receive federal financial aid
• Transfer credits towards the program
• Job market competitiveness
• Professional certification and licensure 

There are multiple types of accreditation for graduate-level programs. The  U.S. Department of Education  (ED) and the  Council of Higher Education Accreditation  (CHEA) oversee regional accrediting agencies.

Regional accreditation typically applies to nonprofit, degree-granting institutions. Schools receive regional accreditation from one of seven regional accrediting bodies, determined by where the school is located. The seven regional accrediting bodies are, 

• Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) Western Association of Schools and Colleges
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Applying To Masters In Education Programs

Applying to a master’s in education program can be overwhelming, especially if you are working full time. From gathering references, paying application fees, and submitting undergraduate school transcripts, the application process can be tedious work. However, all schools generally require the same forms and documents for acceptance consideration. 

Remember, before considering applying for a graduate education program, you  MUST  hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Without this, you will not be able to start a graduate program. 

It’s important to remember that all requirements and prerequisites must be met in order for the graduate school to consider your application for acceptance. Consider making a spreadsheet of all of the documents needed for the applications with deadlines for each graduate program. 

Admission Requirements for Graduate Education Programs

Paying for a master’s in education.

Let’s be honest, graduate school isn’t cheap. Financial assistance options for graduate school can be harder to navigate and might not be as readily available to students as with undergraduate assistance. Most students require financial assistance and that is why it is important to speak to a financial aid representative at the University to understand your options. 

Not everyone will qualify for all the different types of aid that are available but hopefully between scholarships, grants, and federal loans the cost of graduate school will be more manageable. 

It is also important to speak to your employer. Many education systems offer some form of  tuition reimbursement for educators  earning their master’s in education. 

Here’s a more in-depth breakdown of the different types of monetary aid that is available. Remember, research the different types of aid you may be eligible for and apply early. 

Scholarships

A scholarship is an award of financial aid to a student to further their education. This money does not have to be repaid. There are a variety of different types of scholarships. These include

• Merit-based
• Student-specific (gender, race, religion, family, and/or medical history)
• Career-specific
• College-specific

Most scholarships will require letters of recommendation, academic transcripts, and personal essays. Monetary amounts can be as little as $100 to as much as the cost of your education. You can  apply to multiple scholarships  as long as the school is on the approved list. 

Grants are determined by financial need. They can be used to cover the cost of tuition, books, teaching supplies, and educational supplies. When applying for grants they will inform you how they are to be applied towards your education. The amount of money you are eligible to receive depends strictly on your financial situation.

Typically grants do not have to be repaid as long as you graduate with your masters in the allotted amount of time. If you were to drop out there can be incurred costs.

Student Loans

Unlike scholarships and grants, loans must be repaid. Loans incur interest, so you will ultimately repay more than the initial amount of the loan. The exact terms of the loan will depend on the lender and other factors. There are several types of student loans.

The most common loans are Federal Student Loans. Federal student loans are a great option for most students for the following reasons:

• They don’t have to be paid back while you’re in school.
• They charge lower interest than loans from private lenders.
• If you’re having trouble paying back your loan, there are programs you can qualify for to assist you.
• You don’t need any credit history to get a federal student loan.

Two other fairly common loans are direct subsidized loans and direct unsubsidized loans more commonly referred to as Stafford Loans. 

Direct Subsidized Loans

• U.S. Department of Education loan
• Must meet certain income requirements
• Demonstrate financial need
• Government pays interest rate on loan while in schools
• Pay back once graduated

Direct Unsubsidized Loans

• Don’t have to meet income requirements
• Student is responsible for accrued interest

Federal Perkins Loan 

• Very low-income students
• Lender is the education institution
• Meet income requirements
• School must have funds available, limited monetary amounts

Private Student Loans

• From banks and credit unions
• Very high interest rates
• Payments required while in school

Scholarships For Master’s In Education Students

• Award: $1000
• Available to graduate or undergraduate students majoring in education
• Deadline: October 1 and December 31
• Award: $2,500
• Deadline: April 1st
• Offered by the Central Scholarship Program to graduate students with undergraduate degrees in non-teaching fields who are pursuing a master’s in education
• Requirements: Maryland residents within 200 miles of Baltimore City, have a family income under $90,000 a year, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, have U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, and attend an accredited United States college
• Award: $1,750
• Deadline: Rolling
• For graduate students obtaining a master’s degree in special education
• Requirements: Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, attend an accredited U.S. school, reside within Vermont, be seeking licensure for special education administration, and show commitment to creating inclusive learning environments for students with disabilities
• Award: $6,000 for full-time or $3,000 for part-time study 
• Recent graduates with a bachelor’s degree in a chemistry-related field
• Requirements: Less than one year work experience, be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and be committed to serving as high school chemistry teachers
• Award: $24,000 for two years
• Deadline: March 1st
• Most elite scholarships for master’s in education students who have a desire to teach the American Constitution in high schools
• Requirements: Must be U.S. citizens, hold an accredited bachelor’s degree, and take at least 12 semester credits of constitutional study. 
• Recipients must teach American history in grades 7-12 for one full academic year after receiving their master’s
• Award: $2,500 to $5,000
• Deadline: April 22nd
• For graduate students actively pursuing a master’s degree or credential for teaching science, technology, engineering, or math in K-12 schools
• Requirements: Must be in their second semester, take at least two courses per term, attend an accredited on-campus U.S. school, carry a minimum GPA of 3.5, have American citizenship, and submit at least two faculty letters of recommendation

Career Resources For Educators

• American Federation of Teachers
• American School Counselor Association
• International Society for Technology in Education
• National Association for Music Education
• National Association of Secondary School Principals
• National Council of Teachers of English
• National Council of Teachers of Mathematics
• National Education Association
• National Science Teachers Association
• Society of Health and Physical Educators
• Earning a master’s degree in education opens many doors for educators and increases salary earning potential. Specific job opportunities include educational consultant, educational coordinator at a museum, zoo, and/or aquarium, school counselor, principal, curriculum developer, or content developer.
• This will depend on your career goals! Some careers in education are only available with a master’s degree.
• Typically, a master’s in education will take around two years to complete for a full-time student. Part-time programs are generally three to four years.
• This will also depend on your career goals. If you are interested in becoming a principal and working in administration then a master’s in educational leadership or administration would be ideal; whereas, if you are interested in finding a job as a school counselor then the master’s in school counseling would be a perfect fit. It’s not that one degree is better than the other – it just depends on career goals.

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Education Studies MA

Develop the skills needed for leadership roles in educational policy and pedagogy. Carry out a research project related to your teaching subject or CPD needs.

Key information

• 1 year full-time
• 2 years part-time
• 1 year full-time by distance learning
• September 2024
• January 2025

Course information

Please select the page of your interest

Showing content for section Overview

If you believe in the lifelong value of education and want to work towards improving the experience for students in all educational contexts, this Master's in Education Studies is for you.

You may already be working in the education sector, such as a teacher, manager or researcher, but even if not, this course will refine your abilities to collaboratively explore and critique all aspects of educational policy and practice.

You'll draw on pedagogical, sociological and psychological theory to discover how people of all ages and backgrounds respond to education, and how this translates into lived experience in schools, colleges, universities, professional development programmes and other educational settings.

You'll look at the role and purpose of education from both a national and global perspective, supported by expert academics with sector experience and a diverse cohort of fellow educational professionals.

When you graduate, you'll have the tools and skills to approach complex issues in education at an advanced level, preparing you for senior roles in educational policy and services, pedagogy, learning support or research. 

Join our Postgraduate Open Events

From finding out which postgraduate option is right for you, to exploring the perfect course, browse our upcoming webinars and in-person events and book your place today.

Prefer to study with a work placement?

You can also study for this Education Studies Master's (with Professional Experience) .

Eligibility

This course accepts UK, EU, and International students.

Course highlights

• Examine contemporary issues and perspectives in education – from the changing purpose of education and educational psychology, to the ways in which policy and practice influence the lives of students
• Learn from an expert academic team active in educational research and education practice, including as school governors 
• Get involved in fascinating conversations and debates about how education is perceived and delivered around with the world with fellow students on the course, many of whom may be senior educational professionals
• Explore an area of education studies in depth for your research dissertation, related to your own educational institution and role if you already work in the sector

I enjoyed the different modules and the variety of teaching styles on the course. My favourite part was the dissertation as I was able to carry out a study that was of interest to me.

Lai Ping Yip, MA Education Studies

Contact information

+44 (0) 23 9284 5566

Entry requirements

September 2024 / january 2025 start, uk qualifications.

• A minimum of a second-class honours degree or equivalent in a relevant subject.

Please get in touch if you're not sure if your undergraduate subject is relevant to this degree.

Equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications will also be considered, such as previous study, employment, voluntary work and training courses, including courses and qualifications you didn't complete. Learn more about our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) .

Non-UK qualifications

If you're applying as an international student with a non-UK degree, you’ll need to show you meet the UK entry requirements listed above.

To find out if your non-UK degree or other qualification is accepted, please visit our page for  your country  and view the UK equivalent of your qualification. 

English language requirements

• English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 (or equivalent) with no component score below 6.0.

You do not need an IELTS or equivalent certification if:

• you have a UK degree
• you have a degree from a majority English speaking country (not taught by Distance Learning)
• you are a national of a majority English speaking country

Degrees taught solely in English from non-majority English speaking countries will be considered on a case by case basis. Find out more about our  English language requirements .

If you do not meet the English language requirements yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a  pre-sessional English programme  before you start your course.

Course costs and funding

Tuition fees (september 2024 / january 2025 start), uk, channel islands, and isle of man students.

• Full-time: £10,400
• Part-time: £5,200 per year
• Full-time (distance learning): £8,900

EU students

(including Transition Scholarship )

International students

• Full-time: £17,900
• Part-time: £8,950 per year

University of Portsmouth graduates may receive a  20% alumni tuition fee discount . 

Fees are subject to annual increase.  Read our tuition fees terms and conditions .

You'll be able to pay your fees in instalments. Find out  how to pay your tuition fees .

Funding your studies

Explore how to fund your studies, including available  scholarships and bursaries .

If you're a UK student, you may be eligible for a  Government Postgraduate Master's Loan , which you can use to help with course fees and living costs.

Loans, scholarships and bursaries

Browse funding such as the Government Postgraduate Loan, our scholarships for new and returning students, and subject specific loans.

Funding for international students

Learn more about sponsorships, scholarships and loans for students applying from outside of the UK.

Fees and funding for Master's courses

Explore Master's funding options, including loans, scholarships, bursaries and more.

Additional costs

These course-related costs aren't included in the tuition fees so you'll need to budget for them when you plan your spending. Additional costs could include:

• Accommodation:  If you choose to study on-campus, accommodation options and costs can be found on our  accommodation pages
• Recommended reading:  You can borrow key texts from the library and if you choose to purchase these texts they may cost up to £60 each.
• General costs:  such photocopying, memory sticks, printing charges, binding and specialist printing. We suggest budgeting £75 per year.
• Final project transport or accommodation:  where necessary, which related to your research activities. The amount will depend on the project you choose.

Read more about tuition fees and living costs , including what your tuition fees cover.

Full-time (on campus)

Core modules, contemporary perspectives in education studies - 30 credits analyse the complex forces, policies and practices shaping 21st century teaching and learning landscapes on this module.  .

You’ll evaluate education through historical and contemporary lenses, questioning power and equity in education systems.

You’ll develop your own distinct perspectives, informed by robust academic debate.

Research Methods in Education - 30 credits This module will help you build your skills ahead of research for your Master’s degree.  

You’ll design and write up an education research proposal for your dissertation.

You’ll start by thinking about any research skills you might need to improve on and develop ways to strengthen your skillset, through core training, chosen focus areas and applied learning.

Then, you’ll work on your own postgraduate research proposal planning out the specific research methods you’ll use and taking ethical issues into account. You’ll include clear objectives and document your literature and data sources.

Approaches to Education Studies - 30 credits Strengthen your understanding of the multidisciplinary nature of research in education on this module.  

You’ll focus on three key approaches to educational research, including psychology, sociology and pedagogy.

You’ll get an introduction to key theories from each of these disciplines as they relate to educational research, while engaging with how these perspectives inform research design and analysis.

By the end of the module, you’ll be able to use theoretical perspectives in your own research.

Optional modules

Contemporary issues in special educational needs and disability - 30 credits explore current issues within the field of special educational needs and disability (send) on this module.  .

You’ll examine real-world issues impacting neurodiverse and disabled learners, reviewing the latest research alongside public policies and practices.

You’ll evaluate inclusion models, family partnerships and transition programs, and question how systems, tools and culture might transform to foster agency and dignity for diverse minds and bodies.

Education in a Global Context - 30 credits Look into contemporary global education issues on this module, focusing on the need for learner-centred development and education's role in enabling a more just, equitable society.  

You’ll learn how provision often reproduces societal norms and divisions by preparing students to fulfil their expected roles in society.

You’ll focus on the economic, social, cultural and political issues that impact societal norms, divisions and lives through education policies, curriculum and modes of learning.

Leadership, Policy and Strategy: The Management of Educational Change - 30 credits Learn how to navigate the complex landscape of education strategy, leadership and reform in this multifaceted module.  

You’ll gain insider perspectives on the policy-making process, from agenda-setting to real-world implementation.

Study change models, quality control approaches and evaluation methods driving systemic improvements.

You’ll explore motivating leadership styles that empower organisations and communities, and investigate education governance across institutional, local, national and global contexts.

Theory and Practice of TESOL - 30 credits This module bridges theory and practice in the teaching of English.

You'll consider both what we know about how people learn languages and the practical considerations determined by the context in which the classroom teaching happens.

You'll learn about planning activities, lessons and courses for a variety of situations, as well as strategies for motivating learners.

Project Management: Tools and Techniques - 30 credits On this module, you’ll learn strategies for executing projects in professional settings.

For the first half of the module, you’ll cover a wide range of project management tools and techniques for managing different aspects of a project (for example time, cost, quality and risk).

The emphasis is on the ability to critically appraise and justify their use.

For the second half of the unit, you’ll take an in-depth look at the project management processes within the project life-cycle.

You’ll focus on the relationships between the key participants within the different project phases, using case studies drawn from real life.

Dissertation - 60 credits You’ll write up a substantial academic dissertation thesis or an applied work-based project report, showcasing your grasp of design, methods, ethics, organisation and planning.  

With academic guidance, you'll choose your own literature or empirical topic within a field of education that fits the parameters of your intended Master’s exit award. You'll bring together everything you’ve learned to design and evaluate ethical methodologies, conduct systematic research, and communicate your ideas professionally in your dissertation or report.

Work Based Project - 30 credits You’ll complete a small-scale research project and write it up within an applied work-based project report, showcasing your grasp of design, methods, ethics, organisation and planning.

With academic guidance, you'll choose your own literature or empirical topic within a field of study that fits the parameters of your intended Master’s exit award.

You'll bring together everything you’ve learned to design and evaluate ethical methodologies, conduct systematic research, and communicate your ideas professionally in your report.

Full-time (distance learning)

Contemporary perspectives in education - 30 credits analyse the complex forces, policies and practices shaping 21st century teaching and learning landscapes on this module.  , leadership, policy and strategy: the management of educational change - 20 credits learn how to navigate the complex landscape of education strategy, leadership and reform in this multifaceted module.  .

You’ll gain insider perspectives on the policy-making process, from agenda-setting to real-world implementation. Study change models, quality control approaches and evaluation methods driving systemic improvements. You’ll explore motivating leadership styles that empower organisations and communities, and investigate education governance across institutional, local, national and global contexts.

Dissertation - 60 credits You’ll complete a small-scale research project and write it up within a substantial academic dissertation thesis or an applied work-based project report, showcasing your grasp of design, methods, ethics, organisation and planning.  

With academic guidance, you'll choose your own literature or empirical topic within a field of education studies or educational leadership and management that fits the parameters of your intended Master’s exit award. You'll bring together everything you’ve learned to design and evaluate ethical methodologies, conduct systematic research, and communicate your ideas professionally in your dissertation or report.

Changes to course content

We use the best and most current research and professional practice alongside feedback from our students to make sure course content is relevant to your future career or further studies.

Therefore, some course content may change over time to reflect changes in the discipline or industry. If a module doesn't run, we'll let you know as soon as possible and help you choose an alternative module.

Joining us as an international student

You'll feel at home in our international community and our diverse city. You'll be joining over 5,000 international students from more than 150 countries who are studying with us.

Learn more about international student life and how we can help you with visas, applications, arrival and settling in. 

Information for international students

How you'll spend your time

We recognise that you'll probably be juggling more demands when you do your Master's degree, as you may be working or you may have family responsibilities.

We'll give you as much indication here as we can of how much time you'll need to spend in on-campus or in online lectures and seminars and how many hours you can expect to spend in self-directed study, but please note that these indications are always subject to change.

Course structure

This Master's degree will take:

• 1 year (full-time study, on campus or by distance learning)
• 2 years (part-time study)

Full-time study

You can expect:

• 6-9 hours of teaching time every week (lecture, seminar or workshop) between September and December, and 6 hours a week from January to May. You'll also have additional lectures and one-to-one sessions with your supervisor to support your dissertation research or work-based project development before submitting in September. 
• 20–25 hours of independent study each week.
• If you study full-time by distance learning, there may be occasional optional live online seminars, held at times when as many students as possible can attend. All core material is available online at all times so you can create your own study schedule around work or other commitments.

Part-time study

• 3-6 hours of teaching time every week (lecture, seminar or workshop) during your first year and until the January of your second year, when you will have lectures and one-to-one sessions with your supervisor to support your dissertation research or work-based project development.
• 12–14 hours of independent study each week.

However you choose to study, during the last three months of the course, you'll be focusing on your dissertation.

Master's study is deeper and more specialised than an undergraduate degree. This means you'll focus on something that really matters to you and your career as you work closely with academics committed to the subject.

You'll spend more time in independent study and research than you did for your undergraduate degree. If you choose campus based study, the majority of your teaching time will be in-person and face-to-face.

Teaching methods on this course include:

You'll be assessed through:

• presentations
• poster presentation
• dissertation / research project

You'll be able to test your skills and knowledge informally before you do assessments that count towards your final mark.

You can get feedback on all practice and formal assessments so you can improve in the future.

Teaching staff

These are some of the expert staff who'll teach you on this course:

Dr Simon Edwards

Senior Lecturer

[email protected]

School of Education, Languages and Linguistics

Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences

PhD Supervisor

Ms Jasmine Course

[email protected]

Mr Tom Fleming

[email protected]

Dr Ann Emerson

[email protected]

September start

The Master's academic year runs from September to the following September. There are breaks at Christmas and Easter. Over the summer you'll be writing your project / dissertation.

January start

Courses that start in January have the same amount of teaching as September-start courses, and run from January to the following January. There are breaks at Christmas, Easter and in the summer. In the last few months you’ll be writing your project / dissertation.

See key dates

Career development

Careers this master's prepares you for.

When you finish this MA Education Studies, your understanding of the theory and practical application of education practice, policy, experience and psychology will place you in a strong position to advance your career in the sector.

You'll have higher-level knowledge of education today and key research skills applied to practice contexts, ready to take on senior roles in educational policy-making, pedagogy, leadership, mentorship, consultancy, research or learning support.

Graduates of this course have gone on to roles such as:

• Education mental health practitioner
• Lecturer in Education
• Research assistant

9 reasons to do a Master's

Career outcomes shown are sourced from the latest available graduate outcome surveys. The data shows career outcomes at 15 months after graduation.

Career planning

During your course you'll have expert careers advice from our Careers and Employability Centre, your tutors and our Student Placements and Employability Centre. You can access support from our Careers and Employability Centre for up to 5 years after you graduate.

You'll benefit from:

• Networking events
• 1-to-1 appointments  
• CV and cover letter advice
• Interview preparation and practice
• Workshops to enhance your employability skills
• Recruitment events including the Student and Graduate Opportunities Fair
• Support starting your own business

Learn more about your career support

Supporting you

Master's study is more focused on independent learning than undergraduate study, but you'll get lots of  support via video and phone  from teaching and support staff to enhance your learning experience and help you succeed. If you choose to study on-campus, you'll also get  face-to-face support . You can build your personalised network of support from the following people and services:

Types of support

Personal tutor.

Your personal tutor helps you make the transition to postgraduate study and gives you academic and personal support throughout your Master's.

As well as regular scheduled meetings with your personal tutor, they're also available at set times during the week if you want to chat with them about anything that can't wait until your next meeting.

Learning development tutors

You'll have help from a team of faculty learning development tutors. They can help you improve and develop your academic skills and support you in any area of your study.

They can help with:

• Improving your academic writing (for example, essays, reports, dissertations)
• Delivering presentations (including observing and filming presentations)
• Understanding and using assignment feedback
• Managing your time and workload
• Revision and exam techniques

Academic skills support

As well as support from faculty staff and your personal tutor, you can use the University's Academic Skills Unit (ASK).

ASK provides one-to-one support in areas such as:

• Academic writing
• Note taking
• Time management
• Critical thinking
• Presentation skills
• Referencing
• Working in groups
• Revision, memory and exam techniques

If you have a disability or need extra support, the Additional Support and Disability Centre (ASDAC) will give you help, support and advice.

Wellbeing and mental health support

Our online  Learning Well mini-course will help you plan for managing the challenges of learning and student life, so you can fulfil your potential and have a great student experience.

You can get personal, emotional and mental health support from our Student Wellbeing Service , in person and online. This includes 1–2–1 support as well as courses and workshops that help you better manage stress, anxiety or depression.

Disability advice and additional support

If you require extra support because of a disability or additional learning need our  specialist team  can help you.

They'll help you to

• discuss and agree on reasonable adjustments
• liaise with other University services and facilities, such as the library
• access specialist study skills and strategies tutors, and assistive technology tutors, on a 1-to-1 basis or in groups
• liaise with external services

Library support

Library staff are available in person or by email, phone, or online chat to help you make the most of the University’s library resources. You can also request one-to-one appointments and get support from a librarian who specialises in your subject area.

The library is open 24 hours a day, every day, in term time.

Maths and stats support

The  Maths Café  offers advice and assistance with mathematical skills in a friendly, informal environment. You can come to our daily drop-in sessions, develop your maths skills at a workshop or use our online resources.

Support with English

If English isn't your first language, you can do one of our English language courses  to improve your written and spoken English language skills before starting your degree. Once you're here, you can take part in our free In-Sessional English (ISE) programme  to improve your English further.

How to apply

Unlike undergraduate applications, which go through UCAS, applications for this Master's course are made directly to us.

There's no deadline for applications to this course. We accept applications right up until the start dates in September and January, as long as there are places available. If you wait until your start month to apply, you may find that the course is full. 

If you're applying to study on-campus as an international student, remember that you'll need to leave plenty of time to get your visa organised.

You can find more advice about applying in our  postgraduate application checklist . International students and current students and recent graduates of the University of Portsmouth also have some different application options, which are detailed below.

Extra information for international students

I'm an international student.

If you're an international student, you can apply directly to us using the same application form as UK students.

You could also get an agent to help with your application. Check  your country  page for details of agents in your region. To find out what to include in your application, head to the  how to apply page of our international students section .

If you don’t meet the  English language requirements  for this course yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a  pre-sessional English programme  before you start your course.

Ready to apply?

September 2024 start, start this course in september 2024.

Apply now (Full-time) – 1 year

Apply now (Part-time) – 2 years

Distance learning

January 2025 start

Start this course in january 2025.

Apply now (Full-time) - 1 year

I'm a current Portsmouth student, or a recent Portsmouth graduate

If you're currently in your final year of study at Portsmouth, or you graduated since July 2023, you're eligible to make a fast track application. You'll have:

• a shorter application form to complete
• access to the 20% Alumni fee discount
• a guaranteed conditional offer, for most Master's courses 

Learn more about fast track

After you apply

Once we receive your application, we may ask you for further information. We will then either make you an offer or suggest alternatives if your application is unsuccessful.

You'll usually get a decision within 10 working days, so you shouldn't have to wait too long. Some courses have an interview stage – we'll let you know if you need to prepare for one.

Learn more about how we assess your application .

Admissions terms and conditions

When you accept an offer to study at the University of Portsmouth, you also agree to abide by our  Student Contract  (which includes the University's relevant policies, rules and regulations). You should read and consider these before you apply.

Other courses you might like

• MA Education Studies (with Professional Experience)
• PGCE Further Education and Skills
• MSc / PgCert / PgDip Educational Leadership and Management
• MSc Senior Leader Degree Apprenticeship (Educational Leadership and Management)
• PGCE Courses

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Make your university search faster and less stressful. Get a personalised shortlist by selecting what matters to you.

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Postgraduate courses with January starts

Many postgraduate courses start in january and a later date might suit you. here’s a list of which universities offer some of the most popular postgraduate courses with a january kick-off..

Why should you start your postgraduate course in January?

Some applicants may assume that courses with January starts are reduced with fewer modules and less teaching. This isn’t true. You’ll still study a full syllabus and get a PG qualification at the end of the course. 

There are several reasons why you might want to consider a different start to your graduate course. These include: 

• Your preferred course at your preferred university starts in January
• More time to consider your study and funding options
• A more effective balance between work and study
• Personal reasons, such as family or illness, that may delay your entry to university
• Less competition when applying and when searching for jobs at the end of your course

Only certain courses are available for a later start, so make sure you do your research before you investigate January starts.

• READ MORE 
• Applying to university
• Completing your UCAS application
• Undergraduate courses with January starts

Applying for university for January

Most of the time, applications for these courses should be made directly to the university itself. You can find extra details about how to apply and individual deadlines on university websites. If you choose to apply through UCAS, there may be extra deadlines. It’s best to check with the university to determine the most suitable route. 

Securing funding for postgraduate study can be more difficult than for undergraduate. Make sure you find financial sources and apply early. You can find more information on our postgraduate funding page. UK postgraduate January starters are still normally eligible for the same study loans available to students starting in September. 

Which universities offer postgraduate degrees starting in January?

Most courses with January starts are for postgraduate students. 

We’ve listed a few examples of available subject areas and the universities that offer them. These include variations of course types and names but isn’t a comprehensive list. It does, however, include both taught and research-based postgraduate courses. 

For a full list, visit the individual university website or use our course chooser .

Anthropology

This includes courses such as Anthrozoology, Environmental Anthropology and Medical Anthropology.

Aberdeen Cambridge Exeter Kent Oxford Sussex

This includes courses such as Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry and Organic Chemistry.

Bristol Cardiff Edinburgh Nottingham Trent Oxford Swansea

This includes courses such as Educational Leadership, Inclusive Education and Educational Studies.

Bangor Buckingham Derby Edinburgh Liverpool Hope Leeds Oxford Newcastle Sheffield Hallam

Geography & Environmental Science

This includes courses such as Sustainability, Environmental Science and Sustainable Futures.

Aberdeen Dundee Exeter Newcastle Swansea

This includes courses such as History, Medieval Studies and Contemporary History.

Bangor Bristol Buckingham Exeter King’s College London Oxford Swansea

This includes courses such as International Marketing, Branding and Advertising and Marketing Management. 

Bournemouth Glasgow Gloucestershire Kent Loughborough Oxford Brookes Westminster

This includes courses such as Mathematics, Statistics and Industrial Mathematics.

Cardiff Kent Manchester Metropolitan Newcastle Oxford Swansea

This includes courses such as International Relations, Diplomacy & Foreign Policy and Digital Politics. 

Anglia Ruskin Exeter Keele Kent King’s College London Leeds Loughborough Oxford Swansea

This includes courses such as Criminology, Social Sciences and Jewish Studies. 

Cardiff Kent King’s College London London South Bank Stirling Sussex Westminster

Theology & Religious Studies

This includes courses such as Divinity, Applied Theology and Buddhist Studies. 

Birmingham Cardiff Chichester Exeter Oxford

• Find a postgraduate course

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• Current Students

Master of Education in Educational Leadership

Program summary.

Broaden your leadership potential as a teacher or administrator and meet your professional development goals with one of the three educational leadership options offered in this online master's degree program.

Flexible Format

Complete most courses 100% online, with the option for an in-person internship.

Application deadline

Credits and costs, nationally recognized.

Prepare for Your Role as an Education Leader

Inspire and encourage fellow teachers and students.

Expand your knowledge about schools, teachers, and student learning.

Integrate your teaching experience while honing your leadership skills.

Renew your passion to work on behalf of public education.

Course Work That’s Applicable to Your Career

The course work in this program is designed to prepare you to be an outstanding leader who:

• is committed to continual improvement in education
• believes higher levels of learning are possible for all students
• supports the ideals of equity, inclusivity, and social justice

Relevant Course Work

Penn State's 30-credit online master of education degree in educational leadership emphasizes the knowledge and skills that you need as a teaching professional to achieve a supervisory role in your school. Each course in the program focuses on helping you to integrate your teaching experience while honing your leadership skills.

Once you are accepted into the program, you may begin your course work at the start of an academic semester. The typical student course load is expected to be three to four courses per year.

Collaborative Experience, Practical Applications

The master's degree curriculum uses a blend of web technology, print, and other media to maximize flexibility without sacrificing professor and student interaction.

Communication tools, including bulletin boards and email, are used to foster a collaborative environment, providing you with the opportunity to learn from one another. The curriculum and course format can help you develop practical applications of the topics you study. Learn online when it is convenient for you, and immediately apply what you've learned to your job.

Teacher Leader Emphasis

Course work in the teacher leader emphasis for the master’s program in educational leadership provides for core knowledge and skills to be explored through five required courses (15 credits) and for individualized program study to be explored through five elective courses (15 credits).

Teacher Leader Required Courses (15 credits)

This course focuses on understanding teacher leadership and its function with the school system.

This course focuses on understanding schools as learning organizations and how teacher leadership works in such organizations.

Focuses on several general models developed for school improvement purposes.

Provides aspiring leaders with learning opportunities and activities authentic to school leaders and leadership roles in educational organizations.

Completion and public presentation of an inquiry project reflecting an understanding of the five leadership strands. Taken in the final semester of the program.

Teacher Leader Electives (15 credits)

Selected by the student with support from their program adviser.

• Two EDLDR electives (6 total credits) at the 500- or 800-level 
• One EDLDR elective (3 total credits) at the 500-level
• One open graduate elective (3 total credits) at the 500- or 800-level
• One open graduate elective (3 total credits) at the 500-level

School Leader Emphasis

School leader required courses (30 credits).

The course work for the school leader emphasis is based on Pennsylvania standards and can help prepare you to become an effective school administrator. You will take specially designed courses along with a dedicated internship with a mentor from the field of education.

The analysis and use of the foundations which underlie models of curriculum design.

Development of educational leadership. Relationships among local, state, and federal agencies. Introduction to current concepts and theories.

This course serves as an exploration of the school leaders' role in promoting equity and diversity for all members of the school community.

Focuses on the development of skills related to data use that will help inform administrative and leadership decisions in school settings.

The principalship course provides students with knowledge specific to the role of the principal in K–12 schools.

This course gives students an overview of the values and policies shaping school finance in the United States, with a special emphasis on the relationship between education funding and equity.

Provides an overview of major issues in school law. The course will focus primarily on case law including U.S. Supreme Court decisions as well as relevant state and federal lower court opinions.

Required field experience across a calendar year for students in order to receive their principal certificate from the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Students earn 1 credit for each of 3 consecutive semesters for a total of 3 credits.

Course Availability

If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.

Advance Your Career

You can use the knowledge gained from this program and the support of Penn State career resources to pursue careers in a variety of fields, depending on your goals.

Job Titles Related to This Degree

The following roles are often held by people with this type of degree:

• Education Coordinator
• Education Director
• Lead Teacher
• School Administrator
• Student Services Director

Employment Outlook for Occupational Fields Related to This Degree

Estimates of employment growth and total employment are provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and are subject to change. While these occupations are often pursued by graduates with this degree, individual outcomes may vary depending on a variety of factors. Penn State World Campus cannot guarantee employment in a given occupation.

Education Administrators, Postsecondary

Education administrators, kindergarten through secondary, education and childcare administrators, preschool and daycare, career services to set you up for success.

From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.

• Opportunities to connect with employers
• Career counselor/coach support
• Occupation and salary information
• Internships
• Graduate school resources  

Ready to Learn More?

Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.

I agree to be contacted via phone, email, and text by Penn State World Campus and affiliates. I understand my information may also be shared with select providers to offer ads that may be of interest to me. Privacy Policy . reCAPTCHA protected. Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service .

Learn more about this program

Ready to take the next step toward your penn state master's degree, costs and financial aid.

Learn about this program's tuition, fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, payment options, and military benefits.

Graduate Tuition

Graduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.

Financial Aid and Military Benefits

Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities , as well.

To view the detailed list of cost of attendance elements, select “World Campus” as the location on the  tuition site .

Earn a Valuable Credential along the Way

The educational leadership curriculum is part of a larger portfolio of professional graduate degrees and certificates. Thanks to shared courses across programs, students can often earn a graduate certificate along with their master’s degree in less time than if they earned them separately.

Certificate Programs Related to This Degree

The following certificates can be earned while completing this degree program:

Earn the certification needed for educational administration and principal positions in Pennsylvania. This 18-credit online program meets the current requirements established by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education and the Educational Leadership Constituent Council.

Develop the professional knowledge, skills, and competencies required of candidates for Pennsylvania Department of Education Teacher Leaders Endorsement. Continue teaching in the classroom while you pursue additional roles such as lead teacher, mentor teacher, or department head.

Customize Your Program

Quality educational leadership is vital to the overall success of an individual school or entire school system. As a strong academic leader, you can help orchestrate school reform, serve as a motivator to fellow teachers and students, and be key to high-performing schools.

Switching from one emphasis area to another is not permissible once you’ve been accepted into a specific program emphasis. Choose from three emphasis areas:

Teacher Leader

You can continue teaching in the classroom while you pursue alternative roles, such as a lead teacher, mentor teacher, or department head. In your course work, you will explore topics that include learning theory, teacher leadership, teacher inquiry, and curriculum design. Interested in Teacher Leader Endorsement in Pennsylvania ?

School Leader

Approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, the school leader emphasis meets Pennsylvania state educational requirements for school principal certification and offers an internship under the supervision of an approved on-site mentor principal. The internship allows you the opportunity to integrate the specialized knowledge learned through course work into the field and must span a full calendar year.

School Leader (without Principal Certification)

This emphasis area does not include the principal certification and is best aligned to students in international and private schools, domestic and abroad. The internship, which is the capstone assignment for the degree, is modified accordingly.

Benefit from an Internship

You'll have the chance to gain real-world experience thanks to an immersive internship experience.

Internship Requirements

If you are applying for the principalship certificate or the school leader emphasis of the Master of Education in Educational Leadership and you are interested in becoming a certified principal, please note that there are additional considerations regarding your internship.

Pennsylvania-Certified Educator

Your mentor needs to be a Pennsylvania-certified principal who has practiced in Pennsylvania as a principal (not an assistant principal) for at least 3 years.

Who Should Apply?

At this time, only Pennsylvania-certified educators are eligible to apply for the school leader emphasis of Master of Education in Educational Leadership. Our teacher leader and school leader (without principal certification) emphases are open to educators from other states and countries.

Act 48 Approved

Penn State is an Act 48–approved provider for Pennsylvania educators, so the courses for the Master of Education in Educational Leadership may count toward your professional development hours.

Set Your Own Pace

Whether you are looking to finish your program as quickly as possible or balance your studies with your busy life, Penn State World Campus can help you achieve your education goals. Many students take one or two courses per semester.

Our online courses typically follow a 12- to 15-week semester cycle, and there are three semesters per year (spring, summer, and fall). If you plan to take a heavy course load, you should expect your course work to be your primary focus and discuss your schedule with your academic adviser. 

To Finish Your Degree in One to Two Years

Take 3–4 courses each semester

To Finish Your Degree in Two to Three Years

Take 2–3 courses each semester 

To Finish Your Degree in Three to Four Years

Take 1 course  each semester

Convenient Online Format

This program's convenient online format gives you the flexibility you need to study around your busy schedule. You can skip the lengthy commute without sacrificing the quality of your education and prepare yourself for more rewarding career opportunities without leaving your home.

A Trusted Leader in Online Education

Penn State has a history of more than 100 years of distance education, and World Campus has been a leader in online learning for more than two decades. Our online learning environment offers the same quality education that our students experience on campus.

Professional Licensure / Certification

Disclosures.

Many U.S. states and territories require professional licensure/certification for employment. If you plan to pursue employment in a licensed profession after completing this program, please visit the Professional Licensure/Certification Disclosures by State interactive map for more information.

How to Apply to Penn State

Apply by November 1 to start January 13

Application Instructions

Deadlines and important dates.

Complete your application and submit all required materials by the appropriate deadline. Your deadline will depend on the semester you plan to start your courses.

Spring Deadline

Summer deadline, fall deadline, steps to apply, 1. review the admission requirements..

For admission to the Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. This degree must be from an officially recognized degree-granting institution in the country in which it operates. 

GPA  — A successful undergraduate record with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Prior to submitting an application for the program, please be aware of the following:

• If you are considering applying to the School Leader emphasis, you will need to have a minimum of three years of school related experience by the time you start or complete the program. 
• At this time, only Pennsylvania-certified educators are eligible to apply for the Graduate Certificate for Principalship and/or the School Leader emphasis of Master of Education in Educational Leadership. You must have the capacity to  complete a required, (calendar) year-long internship  with a qualified mentor principal (who has been a Pennsylvania principal for at least three years) for the School Leader emphasis.
• Our Master of Education in Educational Leadership program with the Teacher Leader emphasis is open to educators from other states and countries. Please note that switching from one emphasis area to another is not permissible once the student has been accepted into a specific program emphasis.

2. Gather your required materials.

You will need to upload the following items as part of your application:

Official transcripts from each institution attended,  regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Penn State alumni do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State, but must list Penn State as part of your academic history. If you are admitted, you will be asked to send an additional official transcript. You will receive instructions at that time.

Test Scores  — No tests scores are required.

English Proficiency  — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Proficiency section on the  Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page . Visit the  TOEFL website  for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.

References (3)  — you will need to initiate the process through the online application by entering names, email addresses, and mailing addresses of three references. Upon submission of your application, an email will be sent to each reference requesting they complete a brief online recommendation regarding your commitment for success in an online program. Please inform all recommenders they must submit the form in order for your application to be complete.  

Ask for letters from recommenders who can make a strong case for your commitment to success in an online program of graduate study. At least one of these recommenders should be your current school principal/supervisor. Remaining references should include individuals who have supervised you in an academic or professional setting, who can speak to your intellectual ability, communication and problem-solving skills, creativity, sensitivity to others, and educational leadership potential.

Ask for recommendations (completion of an online form  and  an attached recommendation letter) well in advance of the application deadline. Notify all recommenders that they must submit their recommendation in order for your application to be complete.

Program-Specific Questions/Materials

Statement of Purpose —   Write a brief statement, of about 1000 words, describing your reason for applying for the Penn State World Campus Master of Education in Educational Leadership program and any experiences that have contributed to your commitment to education.

Writing sample

• Select an article from a current education journal or peer reviewed journal, such as Education Policy/EPX (Sage), Educational Administration Quarterly (UCEA), International Journal of Educational Policy and Leadership (electronic journal), Educational Leadership (ASCD), or another similar option.
• Briefly summarize, in a maximum of three pages , the main points of the article and then critique the content from the vantage point of your experiences as an educator.
• Your critique can include agreement as well as disagreement with author's perspective.
• Include a complete citation for the article in your writing sample.

3. Create a Penn State login account.

To begin the online application, you will need a Penn State account.

Create a New Penn State Account

If you have any problems during this process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected] .

Please note: Former Penn State students may not need to complete the admissions application or create a new Penn State account. Please visit our Returning Students page for instructions.

4. Read the application instructions.

You can begin your online application at any time. Your progress within the online application system will be saved as you go, allowing you to return at any point as you gather additional information and required materials.

• Choose Enrollment Type: "Degree Admission"
• Choose "WORLD CAMPUS" as the campus

Checking Your Status  You can  check the status of your application  by using the same login information established for the online application form. 

Technical Requirements   Review the technical requirements  for this degree program. 

Applying as a Nondegree Graduate Student

To begin taking courses right away, you may apply as a "nondegree" graduate student. You may take up to 6 credits in nondegree status before submitting your application portfolio. Only students matriculated into the educational leadership program as a student completing a degree or certificate program are permitted to take the EDLDR 595, Internship for Principals course.

Note:  If you apply and enroll as a nondegree graduate student,  you must re-apply to the degree/certificate program  to be considered for admission into the Master of Education in Educational Leadership degree program. This new application includes a second application fee . Application/enrollment as a nondegree student does not  guarantee admission to the program. Acceptance to the educational leadership degree program is contingent upon approved (by faculty panel) application to a selected program. If you plan to enroll as a nondegree student, you must contact an adviser in the program for guidance prior to beginning course work . No more than two courses (6 credits) are permitted in nondegree status before acceptance to the program is required.

In the graduate school application:

• Select "Nondegree Admission"

5. Complete the application.

Admissions help.

If you have questions about the admissions process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected] .

Have questions or want more information? We're happy to talk.

To learn more about the Master of Education in Educational Leadership, fill out the form below.

For questions regarding the program and how to apply, please contact:

Mark Ivicic Administrative Support Assistant Educational Leadership Program The Pennsylvania State University Phone: 814-865-1487 Email:   [email protected]

Learn from the Best

Offered by Penn State's College of Education and delivered online through Penn State World Campus, this program is taught by the same nationally recognized faculty who teach our rigorous, high-quality residential program.

Gerald K. LeTendre

• Degree Ph.D., Education, Stanford University
• Degree M.S., Sociology, Stanford University
• Degree B.A., Sociology, Harvard University

Dr. Gerald K. LeTendre is the Harry Lawrence Batschelet II Chair of Educational Administration at Penn State and co-editor of the  American Journal of Education . His current research focuses on the impact of online learning and other information technologies on teacher-led professional development and teacher work roles. Dr. LeTendre has published on a broad range of topics in educational policy and comparative/international education. He is co-editor (with Motoko Akiba) of the  International Handbook of Teacher Quality and Policy  (Rutledge, 2017).

Tiffany M. Squires

• Degree Ph.D., Instructional Design, Development, and Evaluation, Syracuse University
• Degree M.S., Instructional Design, Development, and Evaluation, Syracuse University
• Degree M.S., Education, Canisius College
• Degree B.S., Elementary Education, State University of New York at Fredonia

Dr. Tiffany M. Squires is an assistant professor and serves as assistant director of Online Programs for Education Leadership. Dr. Squires has more than 15 years of experience in K–12 education as a teacher, principal, and professional development facilitator. Her dissertation research focused on the perceptions of principals regarding the role of the school leader in the implementation of curricular and instructional change associated with standards-based reform. Her research continues to focus on school systems reform/improvement and highly effective leadership practice.

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Curriculum & Instruction: M.Ed. - Master of Education

In this 100% online M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction program, students learn research-based strategies and best practices for developing effective instructional programs. Top-ranked curriculum and top-tier faculty.

At a Glance

Program results.

M.Ed. - Master of Education

Curriculum & Instruction

Career Outcomes

• Educator in various preK-12 settings, community colleges, nonprofit organizations, museums, government agencies
• Curriculum developer in similar settings  

Best Suited To

• Educators aiming to be successful within diverse learning environments
• Educators desiring to enhance their knowledge of curriculum, teaching, and learning to meet the needs of all learners
• Individuals desiring to advance their careers with 100% online, asynchronous coursework 

Program Type

Estimated length.

2-3 years (part time) or 1 year (full time) 

Application Deadline

Spring entry: November 1

This program may accept applications for spring entry after the November 1 deadline on a case-by-case basis; please reach out to the Office of Admission for more information.

Summer entry:

• February 1 (priority deadline)
• May 1 (final deadline)

Fall entry:

• March 1 (priority deadline)
• July 1 (final deadline)

About This Program

This 100% online master's program is designed for individuals who want to make a difference in educational settings by developing more effective curricular and instructional practices to better serve students. The flexible and asynchronous program curriculum is designed to equip educators with the knowledge and skills to be successful in an ever-changing educational landscape.  

In addition to core requirements in the four pillars of the program (curriculum, instruction, assessment, and diversity), students will select an area of emphasis from the following areas: 

• Educational Innovation
• English as a Second Language (ESL)
• Gifted Education
• Instructional Technology
• Professional Studies
• Social and Emotional Learning
• Social Foundations
• NEW-Customized Coursework: You may choose this option if you want to study a broad range of educational topics. Choose four courses from the various areas of emphasis. 

This program is not an approved Virginia initial licensure program. However, if you are interested in adding an endorsement in Gifted Education, English as a Second Language, or pursuing an initial Virginia license through an alternate route, then these options may be available through the M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction program. Please reach out to the licensure specialist listed as the contact on our Become a Teacher page.

The professional studies area of emphasis is designed to assist those pursuing a Virginia license through an alternate pathway. Reach out to our licensure specialist listed at the bottom of this page for more information about this area of emphasis. 

• Request Information

Program Overview

Admission Requirements

Students may enter the program during the summer, fall, or spring semesters. Admission requirements that apply specifically to this program are listed below: 

Prerequisites Successful completion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution  

• Two recommendations solicited through the online application from faculty and/or employers.
• A goal statement that integrates past experiences, explains how this program supports professional goals related to teaching and learning, and describes how this program and the chosen area of emphasis is a good-fit for the applicant. It should be 1-2 double-spaced pages or no more than 500 words in length.  
• An updated resume.
• Unofficial transcripts (uploaded to the online application). 

Applicants are responsible for ensuring that all required materials are submitted by the deadline. Incomplete applications will not be read and may be canceled if left incomplete. Materials should be tracked using the checklist in the application. Decisions are typically made within two weeks of the application deadline.

Visit our  Graduate Admission  page for the full admission process.

Transferring Credits

A maximum of 6 credit hours can be transferred into the program if the course is determined by the advisor to meet a number of conditions (e.g., graduate-level, is equivalent in rigor and focus to a course offered in the program of study, the student earned a grade of B- or higher, and the course was successfully completed less than 5 years from the date of admission to the program). 

Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores are NOT required as part of the application process. International students must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Scores must not be more than 2 years old. Applicants who have or will have earned an undergraduate degree from an institution where English is the primary language of instruction do not need to provide TOEFL or IELTS scores.  

Information for Current UVA Undergraduates If you are a current UVA undergraduate, view our Information for Current UVA Undergraduates  page for info on admission into this program.

Guaranteed Admission for UVA Undergraduate For UVA B.S.Ed. graduates, the UVA School of Education and Human Development offers a guaranteed admission option for recent teacher education graduates who meet eligibility requirements. Review the Guaranteed Admission page for more information. This option also requires a simplified application.

Graduate Admission

Application for admission is made to the School of Education and Human Development Office of Admission & Enrollment. For more information about the graduate admission process, please visit our Graduate Admission page.

To learn more about specific courses taken as part of the completion of this degree, visit the Graduate Record website. These webpages represent the official repository for academic program requirements. 

All M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction students are required to take six classes in the Curriculum & Instruction (C&I) core (18 hours). The C&I core classes consist of four pillars—instruction, curriculum, assessment, and diversity built upon a foundation.  

• EDIS 5025: Curriculum, Instruction, & Assessment (Foundation)
• EDIS 5080: Differentiating Instruction (Instruction Pillar)
• EDIS 5422: Cross-Cultural Education for Diverse Learners (Diversity Pillar)
• EDIS 6200: Principles of Curriculum Design (Curriculum Pillar)
• EDIS 6220: Assessment of Curriculum K-12 (Assessment Pillar) 

Students then choose a 12-credit area of emphasis from the following areas:

Educational Innovation, English as a Second Language, Gifted Education, Instructional Technology, Literacy, Professional Studies, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Foundations, Customized Coursework

Students must complete a comprehensive assignment that is embedded in the culminating Curriculum & Instruction course. The course is taken during the final semester.

• EDIS 6880: Masters Comprehensive in Curriculum & Instruction

Curriculum & Instruction Course Descriptions

Information on courses that are part of the M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction curriculum can be found on the UVA Graduate Record website.

Licensure Information: Professional Studies Area of Emphasis

Are you teaching on a provisional teaching license in a Virginia public school, preK-12, and need to fulfill your Professional Studies course requirements? Or, are you interested in teaching, but would like an alternative to a full-time teacher education program?

The Professional Studies area of emphasis in the M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction program includes courses that are required by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) to meet licensure on Virginia’s alternate pathway. 

Students who select the Professional Studies area of emphasis will be given guidance on how to pursue a Virginia teaching license through the alternative licensure path. Visit our Become a Teacher page to learn more about alternative routes to licensure.

Students in the M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction program who select the Professional Studies area of emphasis will work with an advisor to design a course plan that meets program and licensure requirements. 

C&I Core course requirements for the Professional Studies area of emphasis (18 credits):

*Also required for licensure. EDIS 5025 must be completed prior to EDIS 5820

Professional Studies requirements (12 credits):

Special Education, K-12, Early/Primary and Elementary Education

• EDLF 5160: Lifespan Development
• EDIS 5041: Behavior and Classroom Management
• EDIS 5175: Issues in K-12 Education 
• EDIS 6720: Understanding the Code: The Language Systems of Written English

Middle Education

Secondary, PreK-12, and Adult Education

• EDIS 5175: Issues in K-12 Education -or- EDLF 7601: Social Foundations of Education
• EDIS 5710: Reading and Writing Across the Content Areas

Note: Final licensure requirements are determined and approved by the Virginia Department of Education. Please reach out to the licensure specialist contact listed on this page as you move forward with your next steps.  

Dual MBA/M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction Option

Few roles in society provide the reach that educators have into people’s lives. But reach does not always translate into impact because the challenges that educators around the world face are profound indeed. This full-time dual degree program is a partnership between two leading schools at UVA–the School of Education and Human Development (EHD) and the Darden School of Business.

The MBA/M.Ed. program integrates two courses of study (education and business) and combines two different approaches to learning (online at EHD and in-person at Darden). This program is designed for the next generation of leaders who will transform education in the United States and around the world.

Dual Degree Information

For more information about pursuing the MBA/M.Ed. dual degree option in curriculum and instruction visit the program page.

M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction Areas of Emphasis

Find out which of these areas of emphasis best aligns with your goals.

Reach out to the program contact listed at the bottom of this page, or attend an upcoming information session to learn more about the program experience.

In the educational innovation emphasis, students...

• will learn about major historical efforts to improve education and their implications for today's classrooms.
• will be exposed to the significant innovation efforts currently being implemented, as well as their successes and struggles.
• will learn strategies to drive educational change from both inside and outside schools.
• will understand theoretical frameworks that have underpinned key educational innovation efforts.

As it relates to students' professional goals, the educational innovation emphasis can:

• help you lead improvement as a thought leader in educational innovation so that schools fulfill their most important responsibility: providing an effective and engaging education to all children.
• position you as an educator with an innovator's mindset to spearhead the change needed to improve educational opportunities and outcomes in schools and other learning environments.

In the ESL emphasis, students...

• will learn how to plan instruction for English Learners.
• will learn how to understand and gather assessment data and use it to plan instruction (including WIDA frameworks).
• will be grounded in the principles of second language acquisition and development and how they affect classroom learning for multilingual students.

As it relates to professional goals, the ESL emphasis...

• can help you understand that multilingual education is increasingly important not only for ESL and bilingual teachers, but for all educators.
• will prepare you for leadership in your school or district as you model strategies for connecting with multilingual students.

In the gifted education emphasis, students...

• will develop an understanding of gifted education.
• will acquire skills and knowledge to identify and meet the needs of highly able students from diverse backgrounds.

As it relates to professional goals, the gifted education emphasis...

• will help you strengthen your knowledge, instructional skills and abilities to effectively teach highly able students.

In the instructional technology emphasis, students...

• will learn frameworks for technology integration.
• will learn evaluation and assessment of instructional technologies.

As it relates to professional goals, the instructional technology emphasis...

• will help you integrate technology effectively, equitably, and inclusively into classroom teaching.
• will help you disseminate technology integration skills and techniques to other educators through effective modeling, coaching and leadership.

In the literacy emphasis, students...

• will be grounded in the fundamentals of reading development from emergent literacy through adolescent readers.
• will learn the fundamentals of how learners develop encoding and decoding skills. 
• will develop an understanding of how phonological and phonemic awareness and phonics development lead to automatic word recognition. 
• will develop an understanding of English orthography and the principles that govern it.
• will develop an understanding of both content literacy and disciplinary literacy. 
• will learn the cognitive theory behind comprehension supports and instruction.
• will explore how reading and writing should be integrated in content area instruction.
• will learn how students develop as writers and how to provide writing instruction that meets their needs. 
• will examine the ways that children’s/young adult literature can be used to enhance classroom instruction and develop culturally responsive instruction.

As it relates to professional goals, the literacy emphasis...

• can strengthen your literacy knowledge, instructional skills and abilities for effective teaching of reading, the development of reading programs and literacy coaching.
• prepares you for literacy work in various learning contexts.

In the professional studies emphasis, students...

• will be grounded in foundational curriculum and instruction practices.
• will learn behavior management methods.
• will learn literacy practices aligned with the grade level of interest.
• will acquire skills in assessment.
• will learn the foundations of education, including exploration of issues of practice.
• will learn about human development.

As it relates to professional goals, the professional studies emphasis...

• is designed to support someone seeking licensure in Virginia through the alternate pathway.
• has courses that meet VDOE’s professional studies requirements to obtain licensure on the alternate pathway.
• is ideal for provisionally licensed or soon-to-be provisionally licensed teachers in Virginia.

In the SEL emphasis, students...

• will learn how to teach SEL curriculum.
• will learn how to model SEL skills for classrooms.
• will discover how mindful awareness and compassion practices support both students and teachers.

As it relates to professional goals, the SEL emphasis...

• can teach you how SEL is applied when supporting students exposed to chronic and acute stress, addressing diversity, equity and inclusion and supporting English learners and exceptional learners.

In the social foundations emphasis, students...

• will explore education as a social institution.
• will learn about the development of education in the United States.
• will examine different societies’ experiences with multiculturalism.

As it relates to professional goals, the social foundations emphasis...

• can help you develop a broad understanding of the complexities and processes of today’s education environment.
• will impart focused knowledge and skill development to help students in your classroom.

In the customized coursework emphasis, students...

• can choose courses from the many areas of emphasis that are offered to support areas that you’re interested in learning about.

As it relates to professional outcomes, the customized coursework emphasis...

• gives you the flexibility to craft a degree experience that supports your unique interests and goals.

Additional Program Details

In 2024, the UVA School of Education & Human Development is ranked #8 for best graduate schools of education in the country by U.S. News and World Report.

The school also jumped up 18 spots to tie for second best online graduate education program in the country, and is ranked #4 in curriculum and instruction, and #11 in instructional media design for online graduate schools of education.

M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction News

Class of 2024: Cathy Balfanz

Cathy Balfanz, an elementary school teacher, came to the UVA School of Education and Human Development to complete her Master of Education with a focus on literacy.

Student Spotlight: Elizabeth Carr, Curriculum and Instruction M.Ed.

Program Faculty

Ottilie Austin

• Associate Professor

Vivien M. Chabalengula

• Professor of Education, General Faculty

Lysandra Cook

Patricia A. Jennings

• Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction Program Director

Anne Jewett

• Assistant Professor
• Degree Director, M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction program

Sarah McCorkle

April Salerno

• Associate Professor of Education, General Faculty

Matthew Wheelock

• Innovation Program Area Director

M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction Contact

• [email protected]

Bavaro Hall 329 PO Box 400273 417 Emmet Street S Charlottesville, VA 22903

Admission & Enrollment

Engaging with prospective students and families on the process of applying to our school.

• 434-924-0742
• Ridley Hall 102
• Monday-Friday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm

Licensure Specialist Contact

Courtney Sullivan

• Academic Program Officer

Disclosures

As a member of the State Authorizations Reciprocity Agreement (SARA), the University of Virginia (UVA) is authorized to provide curriculum in a distance learning environment to students located in all states in the United States except for California. (34 CFR 668.43(a)(6)& 34 CFR 668.72(n)). Although California does not participate in SARA, it allows students to enroll in out-of-state programs.

Upon completion of the M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction program at the UVA School of Education and Human Development, graduates may be eligible for initial professional licensure in another U.S. state by applying to the licensing board or agency in that state. Please visit the University’s state authorization web pages to make an informed decision regarding which states’ educational requirements for initial licensure are met by this program. (668.43(a)(5) (v)(A) - (C))

Enrolled students who change their current (or mailing) address to a state other than Virginia should update this information immediately in the Student Information System as it may impact their ability to complete internship, practicum, or clinical hours, use Title IV funds, or meet licensure or certification requirements in the new state. (34 CFR 668.402).

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• Postgraduate

Education MA

Search the website.

What constitutes good education and how can it be delivered most effectively? This flexible course with allocated tutors possessing extensive experience in educational settings, explores how education defines and contributes to the world around us

Register your interest

• Book an open day

Viewing course details for 2024 year of entry

• Course overview

About your course

Teaching and learning, facilities and support, entry requirements, fees and funding, why choose ma education at middlesex .

The core focus of this innovative MA is exceptional education. This course meets the needs of those who wish to further their knowledge of the theory and processes of education. The course may be undertaken on an individual or collective basis, with groups of teachers and education professionals both eligible to enrol.

Structured so that assignments can be built into your working practice, the course will maximise the effectiveness of your teaching, leadership and management. We encourage participants to evaluate existing practices, develop new approaches and become immersed in action enquiry based research.

Middlesex's extensive history of delivering leading education courses ensures that you will benefit from the guidance of outstanding tutors who bring a wealth of professional experience to their teaching. As research-leaders, our academics are widely published across disciplines such as multilingualism, diversity and childhood development.

Middlesex university undergraduate alumni can benefit from a 20% discount to start their Education MA in January.

Course highlights

• Our education department is at the cutting edge of teaching and learning practice in the UK
• Thought-leaders in their field, our tutors are able to contribute the very latest research findings to the course
• For those registering in groups, the course pathway is developed by the University in partnership with schools or other agencies, who may offer module delivery at a convenient location
• Accreditation of Prior Learning and Accreditation of Prior Experiential learning  is available in all but the dissertation module, allowing you to gain credit for prior study and experience therefore shorten your overall study period. Accreditation of Experiential learning will be through the production of a portfolio of evidence mapped against the learning objectives of the module that you wish to have accredited. There will be an extra fee for assessment of this portfolio.
• Get free access to the resources, learning materials and software.

What you will study on the MA Education?

This is a 180 point Masters programme made up of various choice modules worth 30 and 60 points. For those who do not wish to complete a full masters, the following applies:

Postgraduate Certificate 60 points gained

Postgraduate Diploma 120 points gained

We understand that our students work in very busy environments, therefore we look to provide support wherever possible. Our principle aim is to tailor assignments to your institutional and personal needs, then use practitioner action enquiry and reflective practice as a learning model. All students will be enrolled on the MA course but may opt out at the Postgraduate Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma stage.

The course title can be negotiated with the Programme Leader within the agreed pathways - that is, the student may wish to choose what appears in brackets beside the award title 'MA Education' on their academic transcript. The Dissertation must reflect the requested title. For students undertaking the course as an individual student, (not part of a group), you must choose from a number of 30 and 60 point modules that include the following: · Leadership and Management (30 points) · Developing effective leadership and management (60 points) · Teaching and Learning (30 points) · Developing effective teaching and learning (60 points) · Professional Practice in Education (30 points) · Developing Professional Practice (60 points) · Research Dissertation (30 points) · Dissertation (60 points) · Contemporary issues in Education (30 points) · Research methodology in Education (30 points) School-led modules are led by schools and focus upon their priorities. These will take place at

• Core Modules
• PGDip and MA Students additionally take
• MA Students additionally complete

Developing Effective Leadership and Management (60 points)

The module is suitable for teachers and those working in educational organisations that have a formal or informal leadership role. You'll develop effective leadership and management, and apply the leadership and management strategies you learn to an improvement project.

Developing Effective Teaching and Learning (60 points)

These modules look at student learning and ways to improve classroom practice. There are regular portfolio tasks plus an action enquiry task. The module is delivered via blended learning via web resources and materials and learning conversations. You will explore the pedagogy, systems and structures of learning in the classroom, and investigate current research into learning in order to improve practice. You'll reflect on your own practice and develop innovative approaches to learning.

Developing Professional Practice in Education (60 points)

This module is suitable for anyone in education interested in developing practice. It provides high quality support, recognition and acknowledgement for teachers for you in your professional development and encourages you as a reflective practitioner and skilled self-managed learner.

Contemporary issues in Education (30 points)

This module aims to identify critical issues that drive education policy and practice. The module aims to develop an understanding of contemporary education practice and critically evaluate specific aspects whilst fostering an evidence-based understanding of how societal and economic factors shape the core issues facing education

A total of 60 points must be chosen from the following final compulsory options:

Research Dissertation (30 points)

The Research Dissertation is the culmination of a student’s work on the MA Education Programme. You will appraise their knowledge and critically develop independent research skills to demonstrate mastery of a complex and specialised area in education. This research project is an individual undertaking and the final responsibility to display your ability to propose, design, conduct, analyse, interpret, and evaluate an ethically sound practitioner research study that has the potential to improve professional practice in education.

Research methodology in Education (30 points)

This module will provide a critical overview of research methods and approaches used for researching various aspects of modern education. You will be able to evaluate the strengths and limitations of various methodologies and different methodological approaches including qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods, which underpin various approaches to knowledge generation in a range of education contexts. In addition, you will have the opportunity to explore philosophical, ethical, and methodological differences, which underpin various approaches of knowledge generation that can inform educational research. Advanced data analysis techniques will be explored for qualitative and quantitative methods, to enable you to add depth to your research proposal to help prepare you to undertake your final project. This module a good preparation for the independent dissertation research project.

Dissertation (60 points)

The Dissertation is the culmination of your work on the MA Education Programme. Having previously completed 120 credits at Masters (M) level the you will appraise your knowledge and critically develop your independent research skills to demonstrate mastery of a complex and specialised area in education. This dissertation allows you to conduct an in-depth research project which displays your ability to propose, design, conduct, analyse, interpret, and evaluate an ethically sound practitioner research study that has the potential to improve professional practice in education.

Action Enquiry for Improvement

You will choose an additional module from above or this one.

The main aim of this module is to help you enhance your research competencies and encourage you to critically explore areas of interest in your practice prior to starting your dissertation module for the MA. You will not be required to carry out a full research project but you will be required to explore why particular research methodologies and methods would be appropriate to investigating a particular issue or finding the answer to a specific question. The module will also increase your awareness of the kinds of practical research and development issues you may encounter in your professional work e.g. school settings, universities.

This is the step off point for the Postgraduate Diploma.

Dissertation (60 Credits)

The Dissertation is the culmination of the students work on the MA Programme. Supported by their tutors it is an individual undertaking and the final responsibility to display their ability to plan and conduct an ethical research displaying mastery of complex and specialised area of knowledge.

Sign up now to receive more information about studying at Middlesex University London.

We are regularly reviewing and updating our programmes to ensure you have the best learning experience. We are taking what we have learnt during the pandemic and enhancing our teaching methods with new and innovative ways of learning.

The table below gives you an idea of what learning looks like across a typical week. Some weeks are different due to how we schedule classes and arrange on campus sessions.

This information is likely to change slightly for 2024/25 entry as our plans evolve. You'll receive full information on your teaching before you start your course.

North London campus

Our north London campus is 23 minutes away by underground train, travelling from London Kings Cross.

Our Sheppard Library provides a wide range of resources and support to help you to succeed in your studies.

Over 1,000 study spaces including rooms for group study and over 500 computers available.

We have one of London's biggest and best university campuses with everything you need in one place.

Student support.

We offer lots of support to help you while you're studying including financial advice, wellbeing, mental health, and disability support.

Additional needs

We'll support you if you have additional needs such as sensory impairment or dyslexia. And if you want to find out whether Middlesex is the right place for you before you apply, get in touch with our Disability and Dyslexia team .

Our specialist teams will support your mental health. We have free individual counselling sessions, workshops, support groups and useful guides.

Work while you study

Our Middlesex Unitemps branch will help you find work that fits around uni and your other commitments. We have hundreds of student jobs on campus that pay the London Living Wage and above. Visit the Middlesex Unitemps page.

• International
• How to apply

Qualifications

• Applicants should have a 2:2 or above from a Bachelor honours degree
• Applicants should normally be working in education
• GCSE C English or equivalent

Eligibility

UK/EU and international students are eligible to apply for this course.

Academic credit for previous study or experience

If you have relevant qualifications or work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your Middlesex University programme of study. For further information please visit our Accreditation of Prior Learning page.

Interviews, entrance tests, portfolios and auditions

Entry onto this course does not require an interview, portfolio or audition.

We welcome students from the UK and all over the world. Join students from over 122 countries and discover why so many international students call our campus home:

• Quality teaching with top facilities plus flexible online learning
• Welcoming north London campus that's only 30 minutes from central London
• Work placements and networking with top London employers
• Award-winning career support to get you where you want to go after university.

We accept a wide range of international qualifications. Find out more about the accepted qualifications on your  country's support page. If you are unsure of the suitability of your qualifications or would like help with your application, please contact your nearest international office .

English language

You will need to meet our English language requirements. And, don’t worry If you don't meet our minimum English language requirements, as we offer a Pre-sessional English course.

To study with us in the UK, you might need a Student visa . Please check to see if this applies to you.

Applications for postgraduate study should be made directly to the university.

Please visit our Postgraduate application page for further information and to apply.

The fees below refer to the 2024/25 academic year unless otherwise stated.

UK students

£10,500

International Students

£16,800

*Course fees are subject to annual inflation so the total costs for part-time study are shown here as a guide.

For more information and to answer your frequently asked questions, please visit our postgraduate funding page .

Additional course costs:

The following course-related costs are included in the fees:

• A free electronic textbook for every module
• All printing and copying required for your study
• Self-service laptops available for loan for a maximum of 24 hours
• Audio-visual equipment available for loan, including digital stills cameras, digital video recorders, digital audio recorders

Scholarships and bursaries

As an undergraduate alumnus continuing postgraduate studies at Middlesex, you are eligible for an alumni award worth 20% off your fees.

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We’ll carefully manage any future changes to courses, or the support and other services available to you, if these are necessary because of things like changes to government health and safety advice, or any changes to the law.

Any decisions will be taken in line with both external advice and the University’s Regulations which include information on this.

Our priority will always be to maintain academic standards and quality so that your learning outcomes are not affected by any adjustments that we may have to make.

At all times we’ll aim to keep you well informed of how we may need to respond to changing circumstances, and about support that we’ll provide to you.

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As you prepare your application, familiarize yourself with the admission process and timeline for your desired program below. Note that the application for 2025-2026 entry is currently closed! 

Application Timeline

Application Open

Mid September 2024

Application Deadlines

KHS GSE PhD & Master's: Mid   November 2024

PhD:  Early December 2024

Master’s:  Early January 2025

Coterminal Master's : Early January 2025

Decision Letters Released

PhD: Mid-February 2025

Master’s: Early March 2025

Coterminal Master's:  Early March 2025

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April 15, 2025 (11:59pm PST)

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STEP MA Program:  June 23, 2025

All Other PhD and Master’s Programs:  September 22, 2025

Graduate Admission

PhD and Master's program applications  for 2025 entry are currently closed.

Coterminal Admission

Coterm application for current Stanford undergraduates for 2025 entry are currently closed.

The following three degree programs will not accept applications for 2025-26 enrollment. Please check back in July 2025 for more information about the 2026-2027 academic year:

• MA program in Curriculum Studies and Teacher Education (CTE)
• PhD program in  Philosophy of Education (under the SHIPS academic area)
• PhD program in Organizational Studies (under the SHIPS academic area) 
• PhD program in History/Social Science Education (under the CTE academic area)

Announcements and Updates

• Application Open : The PhD and Master's program  applications  for 2025 entry is currently closed. 
• GRE Requirement: GSE will not require the GRE for admission for the 2025-2026 academic year. However, applicants will have the opportunity to submit optional GRE scores.
• Contact Us: Our main recruitment season is closed! If you have questions or want to join an event, please visit our FAQ  and  Connect page in late May 2024.

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Best Education Master’s Degrees: Teacher Prep and Admin

• Author: Laura McPherson
• Expert Reviewer: Megan Bartlett, M.S.Ed.
• Editorial Process

This page covers the master’s degree in teaching or education for teachers, administrators, and those switching careers to become teachers. We will review admission requirements, types of master’s degrees in education, common coursework, job outlook, and the top master’s programs in teaching/education.

Table of Contents

Reasons for Earning a Master’s in Education

• Common Entry Requirements
• Types of Master’s Degrees in Education

Top Online Master’s in Education Programs

Job outlook for teachers and school administrators, frequently asked questions, master’s in education and teaching overview.

There are many different types of master’s degrees in education or teaching. The type of program you choose will be largely related to your career goals.

• Teachers can earn advanced degrees to fulfill continuing education requirements, add endorsements, renew their licenses, or increase their level of expertise. These are often Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degrees.
• Teachers can pursue programs to enter education administration. These are often Master of Education (M.Ed.) degrees.
• Administrators can advance their careers by expanding their skills and credentials. These are usually M.Ed. degrees and can be more advanced degrees too.
• Career switchers with a bachelor’s outside of education become certified teachers through an alternative route . These are typically Master’s of Teaching (MIT) or MAT degrees.

There are numerous reasons to pursue a master’s degree in education. Among them are these six primary reasons:

1. For a pay increase. A growing number of states are mandating higher salaries or advanced licensure for master’s-level teachers and administrators, which is one reason why many seek a master’s degree in education. States that specifically recognize teachers who earn a master’s degree include Alaska , Connecticut , Georgia , Hawaii , Iowa , Kansas , Kentucky , Louisiana , Mississippi , Montana , Nebraska , New Mexico , South Dakota , Virginia , and West Virginia . According to the New York City Department of Education, new teachers in NYC public schools with a bachelor’s degree and no experience earned a starting salary of $62,902 in 2023-24, while those with a master’s degree and no experience earned $70,711 during the 2019-20 school year. 1

2. To gain an additional endorsement. Earning a master’s in education or a teachable academic subject can lead to additional teaching endorsements (the subjects in which an educator is certified or licensed). For example, it is common for teachers who have their initial certificates in a certain level (such as elementary education or middle school education) to add a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or literacy endorsement through a master’s in education program in order to qualify them for more specialized teaching within their level or area of expertise. It is important to note that not all states require an endorsement to be able to teach a subject, so check with your state’s board of education first.

3. To obtain a position of leadership or administration. Many positions of leadership in education require a master’s degree to be considered. Positions such as curriculum and instruction specialist , educational technology specialists , principal , school counselor , and school administrator typically require at least a master’s degree. Leadership endorsement areas and careers typically associated with a master’s in education can also lead to higher salaries. For example, instructional designers and technologists earned a median salary of $66,490 per year in 2022, while education administrators in kindergarten through secondary schools earned a median of $101,320. 2,3 By comparison, those in jobs that typically require an undergraduate degree tend to earn lower median salaries; for example, elementary school teachers earned a median of $61,690, middle school teachers earned a median of $61,810, and secondary school teachers earned a median of $62,360 in 2022. 4-6

4. To improve your skills as a teacher. Additionally, a master’s credential can help individuals improve their skills, keep abreast of the latest research, and become more effective teachers. Since master’s degrees in education are typically designed to be more in-depth and focused than bachelor’s degrees, graduates of these programs may learn new skills that will help them become better teachers.

5. As an alternative route to licensure. If you already hold a bachelor’s degree but not in education, a master’s degree from a state-approved initial licensure program (sometimes called a “career switcher” program) can provide a path to becoming a teacher. You can read more about these types of programs through our guide to alternative teacher certification .

6. To maintain your license (in some states). Some states outright require a master’s degree in order to advance or renew a teaching certificate. States that have adopted this requirement include Massachusetts , Maryland , and South Carolina .

• I have a teaching degree and am interested in additional education: Request information from a master’s program, consider a Master’s in Teaching or Master of Arts in Teaching program, or visit our Doctorate Education Programs page
• I want to be a teacher and have a degree, but not in education: Consider a Master’s Plus program and learn about the alternate route certification process and programs
• I am a current teacher interested in moving into education administration: Consider a Master of Education or Master of Science in Education program

Common Entry Requirements for Master’s Programs in Education

While admission requirements vary widely by degree type and school, they typically include:

• A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or above
• GRE scores (sometimes with a minimum score)
• Letters of recommendation, personal essays, and/or statements of purpose
• A professional teaching resume or portfolio

For master’s degrees in content areas, candidates may be required to have a bachelor’s degree in that academic field–for example, a master’s program in science education will typically prefer students who have a bachelor’s degree in science or science education.

Programs such as Master’s in Teaching (MIT) degrees , which provide a path to initial certification, will generally accept candidates who have an undergraduate degree in any academic subject. Programs that do not lead to teacher certification tend to give admission preference to students who are currently certified to teach and have some teaching experience.

Types of Master’s Degrees in Education and Teaching

There are numerous types of master’s degrees in education. The right degree for you will depend on your goals and area of interest. The two most commonly known graduate degrees in education are the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) and the Master of Education (M.Ed.) . There are also other types of master’s degrees in education, including the Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) and the Master of Arts in Education (M.A.Ed.) , among others.

Master’s programs can focus on a specific area of teaching practice like elementary or secondary education, a particular academic subject, or put a graduate on a track towards school administrator jobs or curriculum and instruction jobs. While these degrees have similarities and are sometimes used interchangeably, there are some significant differences between programs. As a general guideline, master’s in education programs tend to focus on educational leadership and support, whereas master’s in teaching programs tend to focus on the development of direct teaching skills. The various types of master’s in education programs can be found in traditional, on-campus formats as well as in online and hybrid formats.

Master of Education (M.Ed.)

Master of Education degree programs, abbreviated as M.Ed. or EdM degrees, are graduate programs typically focused on preparing students for education careers outside of classroom teaching, like in:

• Administration
• Curriculum planning and design
• Instructional technology
• School counseling

Master of Education programs do not usually qualify candidates for initial teacher licensure. In fact, most programs require candidates to have a teaching certificate. One of the leading reasons teachers pursue an M.Ed. is to gain certification in endorsement areas that require a graduate degree. M.Ed. programs will have a specialization, typically in the endorsement area the student is seeking, with degree titles such as M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction or M.Ed. Administrative Leadership. Most Master of Education degree programs take at least 30 credit hours to earn. Though the curriculum will vary by specialty area, the topics covered in typically concentrate on the theoretical aspects of education. These theoretical studies often include the areas of education research, education policy and reform, and educational leadership.

Common courses in an M.Ed. program include:

• Educational Leadership
• Planning and Resource Management
• Human Resources Administration in Education
• Instructional Supervision

Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) and Master of Arts in Education (M.A.Ed.)

Like the M.Ed., Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) and Master of Arts in Education (M.A.Ed.) degree programs often focus on building leadership skills to help current educators move into administrative leadership positions. This focus on leadership is one way that M.S.Ed. and M.A.Ed. programs differ from other master’s degrees. However, M.S.Ed. and M.A.Ed. programs may also have an academic focus; science and math teachers, for example, commonly earn an M.S.Ed. in their content specialization, such as a Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) in Mathematics. These types of programs are generally for professional development within classroom teaching, rather than a stepping-stone to administrative careers . M.S.Ed. and M.A.Ed. programs commonly take between 25 and 30 credit hours, though both shorter and longer programs are available. To be eligible for admission to an M.S.Ed. or M.A.Ed. program, you must have a bachelor’s degree and typically must also be a certified teacher. While there may be some exceptions it is uncommon for these programs to lead to initial teacher certification.

Typical coursework includes:

• Instructional Theory and Design
• Curriculum, Assessment, and Management
• Quantitative Reasoning and Mathematics
• Students with Special Needs

Master’s in Teaching (M.I.T.)

Master’s in Teaching (MIT) programs are designed for career switchers or individuals who have a bachelor’s degree in a subject other than education and have little or no experience in teaching. Such programs are centered on educator preparation to help students transition to teaching careers and meet teacher certification requirements. As a result, earning an MIT is a relatively common way to transition to a teaching career. An MIT program typically includes a concentration in the grade level of certification, such as elementary or secondary education. Topics covered in MIT programs include teaching skills and practices (pedagogy), the use of technology in the classroom, and basic education theory. MIT programs that lead to teacher certification also typically include student teaching field experiences. In addition, because they are designed to provide teaching education and experience to those from other educational backgrounds, MIT programs tend to be longer than other master’s programs, with formats ranging from 45 to 60 credit hours. MIT programs are commonly offered as hybrid online teaching degrees, in addition to on-campus programs.

Courses typically include:

• Philosophy of Education
• Child or Adolescent Development
• Classroom Management
• Teaching Seminar or Practicum

Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.)

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree is a popular option for prospective or current teachers who want to develop instructional strategies and skills and/or build their content-area expertise, such as in math or English language learning. Some MAT programs provide a path to initial certification and are specifically intended for career switchers who already have a bachelor’s degree in another subject. Whether they are designed for initial teacher certification or professional development, MAT degree programs almost always include a focus area such as elementary, middle, or secondary education and usually an academic content area such as mathematics or English. The degree conferred might be a Master of Arts in Teaching-Secondary English as a Second Language or a Master of Arts in Teaching-Elementary Education, for example. The MAT can often be found in a hybrid or online format. The time it takes to earn a Master of Arts in Teaching can vary widely, though 25 to 45 credit hours is common.

MAT programs include coursework such as:

• Graduate level courses in academic content area (e.g., English, Mathematics, Biology)
• Strategies for Creating an Effective Learning Environment
• Psychology of Learning
• Reading Instruction and Development

Master’s in Academic Content Areas or Master’s Plus Degrees

Another common graduate degree in education is a master’s program in a teaching specialty area. Example programs include a Master of Arts in English, a Master of Science in Mathematics, or a Master of Arts in History. These programs, which are typically 30 to 45 credit hours in length, are designed to give current classroom teachers advanced knowledge in their subject to enhance their teaching of that subject. Such master’s programs can also be a path towards, or parts of, doctoral degrees such as the Doctor of Education (EdD) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education , which can lead to positions in administration as well as in higher education. There are also master’s programs in an academic content area that can lead to first-time teacher certification. Programs in this category are commonly referred to as “Master’s Plus” programs, indicating “master’s plus licensure,” and can be abbreviated as MAT+, MA+, or MS+, depending on the degree type. Master’s plus programs are typically 45 to 60 credit hours in length. Select master’s plus programs can be found online, though they are more commonly found in traditional on-campus or hybrid formats.

Some common courses found in these programs are:

• Graduate-level courses in academic content area (e.g., English, Mathematics, Biology)
• Technology in the Classroom
• Development of Reasoning
• Curriculum Planning

Teacher Certification Degrees’ Best Online Master’s for Teacher Certification

Teacher Certification Degrees has developed a list of over 30 of the top master’s in teaching and education programs designed to lead to first-time teacher certification, using our own proprietary ranking that takes into account academic factors as well as factors measuring student success.

• University of Virginia (#1)
• North Carolina State University (#2)
• University of Alabama (#3)
• Saint Joseph’s University (#4)
• Creighton University (#5)
• Kansas State University (#6)
• Arizona State University (#7)
• Western Oregon University (#8)
• University of Tennessee Martin (#9)
• Mayville State University (#10) 8

To see the full list and learn more about earning your master’s online, see our guide to the Top-Ranked Online Master’s in Education Programs .

Teacher Certification Degrees’ Best Online Master of Education Programs

Our rankings of the best online M.Ed. programs by state are based on academic quality, affordability, and the variety of M.Ed. degrees offered. The top schools from each state are:

• Azusa Pacific University (#1, California)
• University of Florida (#1, Florida)
• Georgia Southern University (#1, Georgia)
• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (#1, Illinois)
• Michigan State University (#1, Michigan)
• University at Buffalo (#1, New York)
• University of North Carolina at Greensboro (#1, North Carolina)
• Ohio University (#1, Ohio)
• Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania (#1, Pennsylvania)
• University of Houston (#1, Texas)

Find out more about hybrid and online M.Ed. programs that can help you develop your skills, add teaching endorsements, and transition to administration careers by clicking on a state below.

• North Carolina

US News & World Report’s Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

• Clemson University (#1)
• University of Florida (#2 tie)
• University of Virginia (#2 tie)
• University at Albany-SUNY (#4)
• San Diego State University (#5 tie)
• University of North Texas (#5 tie)
• Arizona State University (#7 tie)
• Michigan State University (#7 tie)
• University of Illinois-Urbana-Champaign (#7 tie)
• Auburn University (#10 tie)
• University of Wisconsin-Madison (#10 tie) 7

The job outlook for teachers over the next decade is strong due to several factors, including the expected retirement of a large number of teachers and a stronger emphasis from state and federal governments on improving student achievement. Teachers with qualifications in teacher shortage areas such as mathematics, science, reading, and English as a Second Language (ESL) will be in the strongest demand. For more information on the job outlook for teachers and administrators, including a state-by-state guide to the best states to be a teacher, see our careers page .

Question : Can I get a master’s in education without a bachelor’s in education?

Answer : Though admission policies vary between master’s programs, most programs accept students who have bachelor’s degrees in other subjects. The main admissions criteria for most programs include a strong academic background in any subject and teaching experience that can be applied to the master’s learning experience.

Question : How long does it take to get a master’s degree in education?

Answer : The majority of master’s degrees in education and teaching take between one and two years to complete. One-year master’s programs are common in states that recognize master’s degree programs as a pathway to alternative teacher certification. The time it takes to get a master’s degree also depends on whether the student is taking courses on a full- or part-time basis.

Question : Can I teach while getting my certification and earning a master’s degree?

Answer : If you are working to become certified as a teacher through an alternate route master’s degree program, you may be able to teach while you earn your certificate. The requirements for this approach vary by state . Most states will issue a temporary or provisional teaching credential if you have at least a bachelor’s degree and are enrolled in a teacher preparation program.

Question: What are the concentrations or specializations for a master’s in education?

Answer: The specializations available for a master’s in education are driven by the specializations available in the education field itself, largely based on the available career tracks and licensure endorsements. There are over 40 common endorsement areas in education, and most states have more than this. Endorsements that commonly correlate with specializations in master’s in education programs include bilingual education, elementary education, gifted education, mathematics, reading specialist, secondary education, and special education –just to name a few.

Question: What is the difference between a master’s and an educational specialist program?

Answer: An education specialist degree (EdS) is a step above a master’s degree in terms of program length and requirements. While a master’s in education is sufficient to earn many endorsements or certifications, some choose an education specialist degree because it offers deeper preparation due to the additional coursework. Some EdS programs require prospective students to already have a master’s degree in education, while others accept students with a bachelor’s plus teaching experience. See our education specialist degree guide to learn more.

Question: What is the difference between master’s and PhD in Education or EdD in Education programs?

Answer: While both are graduate degrees, a Master of Education is considered an advanced education degree, while a PhD in Education and Doctor of Education (EdD) are considered terminal education degrees as they are the most advanced degrees possible to earn in this field. PhDs in Education tend to be centered on research and teaching, while EdDs in Education tend to be centered on administrative career tracks.

References: 1. New York City Department of Education, About Our Schools, Salary and Benefits: https://teachnyc.net/about-our-schools/salary-and-benefits 2. O*NET OnLine, Instructional Designers and Technologists: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/25-9031.00 3. O*NET OnLine, Education Administrators, Elementary and Secondary School: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/11-9032.00 4. O*NET OnLine, Elementary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/25-2021.00 5. O*NET OnLine, Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/25-2022.00 6. O*NET OnLine, Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/25-2031.00 7. Teacher Certification Degrees’ Best Online Master’s in Education Programs: /degrees/masters-degree/online/#ranking 8. US News & World Report’s Best Online Master’s in Education Programs: https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/education/rankings

• Postgraduate Taught Courses

/ Postgraduate Taught /

Start date:

September 2024

1 year (full-time) 2 years (part-time)

Number of Credits: 

Explore the dynamic intersection of pedagogy and societal development. Deepen your knowledge and skills to shape the future of education – particularly its role in fostering progress and individual empowerment. 

Did you know.

The 2023 Complete University Guide ranks Roehampton 2nd in London for its research quality in education. 

Teaching is mostly timetables on weekday evenings so that part-time students can fit their master's study around work and home commitments. 

Gain the expertise you need to standout in today's marketplace.  

Designed with professionals in mind, the Roehampton Education MA provides a highly flexible programme of study aimed at students and professionals seeking to deepen their knowledge of education and its role in society.

By focusing on graduating with a professional skillset, you’ll become a confident, agile, independent thinker, with the ability to adapt rapidly to change. This incorporates;

• Drawing on the wider professional experiences that students may have, of working in contexts where educational approaches are important
• Covering critical social and educational theories and perspectives, as well as policy and practices relevant to global and local educational contexts
• Achieving critical awareness and understanding of education in its broadest sense as a process of human learning and development.

You will be able to select a further four modules from a range of options, including those from related MA programmes in Early Childhood Studies, SEN Disability & Inclusive Education and Education Leadership and Management. This gives you the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding in an area of education that interests you, or is relevant to your chosen career.

A stimulating learning environment

The course is delivered through interactive workshops, lectures, and seminars at Roehampton. You will study a range of theoretical perspectives, critically looking at the values and assumptions underpinning these views.

You’ll be able to shape your studies around your own interests and aspirations, with optional modules from a range of related MA programmes:

• Early Childhood Studies
• SEN Disability & Inclusive Education

Education Leadership and Management

This gives you the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding in an area of education that interests you or is relevant to your chosen career.

You will benefit greatly from engaging with the insights, experiences and perspectives of your peers who may come from a diverse range of contexts, backgrounds, and experiences. These insights combined with your own experiences and the theory gained from the modules will allow you to deepen your understanding of working with children and young people and of education in its broadest sense.

The Roehampton School of Education is a progressive and inclusive community, putting you at the centre of your learning journey. Lecturers leading modules on this programme have specialist qualifications, teaching or leadership experience in the field of education, with relevant research and scholarly backgrounds, which will help shape the content of the programme.

Take the lead in shaping a sustainable future for the education sector.

With a Roehampton MA, you will be prepared for careers in professional practice and leadership in a career working with children and young people.

Depending on professional qualifications already achieved, this might include:

• Advisor work
• Early childhood practice
• Learning support
• Careers in youth engagement and participation
• Working for community
• Non-governmental organisations/third sector to enhance and enrich educational provision for children, families and communities both in the UK and internationally
• Health and social welfare
• Policy-making
• Implementation and development of children and young peoples’ services
• Education information management or administration
• Doctrate/career un academic research 
• Policy making
• Administration of early childhood services
• Research and developing the early years workforce in further and higher education.

Our careers team is available to support you from the start of your studies until after you graduate. We will help you build your CV, prepare for interviews, and meet and learn from successful graduates working at the top of their careers.

Get a real taste of our campus, community and what it’s like to study at Roehampton

UK postgraduate students apply through our direct application system.

General entry requirements

UK students

September 2024 entry tuition fees (UK)

£8,243

We offer a wide range of scholarships and bursaries. See our 2024 financial support pages for UK students .

We also provide other ways to support the cost of living, including free buses and on-campus car parking, hardship support and some of the most affordable student accommodation and catering in London. Find out more about how we can support you .

International postgraduate students apply through our direct application system.

International students

September 2024 entry tuition fees (international)

£17,325

We offer a wide range of scholarships and bursaries. See our 2024 financial support pages for international students .

Need help or advice before applying?

The school of education is renowned for its high-quality teaching and research, and is one of the principal teacher training providers in the uk. .

Student life

Student support

Find out more about the School

SEND and Inclusive Education

Next entry: Sept 2024 • 1 year (full-time), 2 years (part-time)

Next entry: Sept 2024 • 1 year (full-time), 2 - 4 years (part-time)

Education Leadership and Management (Top-up)

Next entry: Sept 2024 • 1 year (part-time)

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• Applying to graduate school

When to Apply for Graduate School | Month-by-Month Timeline

Published on February 17, 2021 by Lauren Thomas . Revised on June 1, 2023.

Once you’ve decided to apply for graduate school , you need to carefully plan out the application process, leaving yourself enough time to:

• Choose which schools you’ll apply to
• Gather transcripts and recommendation letters
• Write your personal statement or statement of purpose
• Take any standardized exams you might need

In general, you’ll need to start preparing your application at least 6 months in advance of the deadline. Most application deadlines are about 7–9 months before the program’s start date.

Table of contents

When is the right time to apply for graduate school, month-by-month timeline for grad school applications, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about applying to grad school.

Some students apply to grad school straight from undergraduate degrees, but it’s also common to return to school later in life. If you’re not sure yet whether you’re ready to apply for graduate school, ask yourself these questions.

Career and field

• Do you want to change your career? Many individuals attend graduate school to enter fields like nursing, physical therapy, medicine, business, marketing, communications, etc.
• Do you need a graduate degree to progress in your field? In some fields (like law, research, most of health care, and business), a graduate degree is usually necessary to progress. In others (like software engineering or data analytics), degrees are less important.
• How much work experience do you need before applying to graduate school? For instance, MBA programs usually expect you to have several years of work under your belt, whereas many people start medical school right out of undergrad or soon after.

Personal considerations

• Are you at a place in your life where you can focus most of your attention on school?
• Are you prepared to move across the country or even to another country if needed? If not, you should only apply to graduate schools near you.
• Does your family situation permit you to go back to school?

Money matters

• Do you have enough money saved up or a realistic plan to finance graduate school? If you plan to take out government loans, carefully consider how much you will have to pay back after graduation with your expected earnings.
• Can you leave or cut back on your job without drastically harming your financial health?
• Do the graduate programs you’re interested in allow you to work part-time? For instance, medicine rarely allows you to attend part-time. This may also be subject to visa restrictions if you’re planning to study outside your own country.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

You should generally start thinking about graduate school around 18 months before you plan to start. Most program deadlines are 7–9 months before the start date, so you’ll have 6–9 months to get all your materials together, ask for recommendation letters, and take any necessary exams.

Note that some graduate schools—notably medicine—follow a different timeline. Also, some fields, particularly law, use rolling deadlines, meaning the earlier you get in your applications, the better!

The timeline below represents the most typical one, with a December submission deadline. If your deadline is earlier or later, you should adjust your timeline to match.

Decide which type of graduate program you’d like to apply for and start researching schools that fit your criteria. Discuss which programs you should be aiming for with your former professors or current supervisors.

Most programs provide statistics about the test scores, undergraduate grades, or work or research experience of the students they accept. Aim high, but be realistic about your chances. Make sure to choose some programs that are likely to accept you.

Sign up and begin studying for whichever standardized test you need. Different programs require different exams, so you should make sure to check the website of the program you intend to apply to.

Continue studying for standardized tests. Study books can often be checked out for free from your local library. Aim to do at least a little bit of studying every day—that way, it becomes a habit.

Begin the process of asking for recommendation letters.

Take the necessary standardized test for the first time. You aren’t penalized for taking the test multiple times and can send your best score, so don’t panic if you don’t meet your target score on the first try. However, note that each attempt costs (a significant amount of) money, so don’t completely slack off!

Make a list of the specific programs you’re going to apply to. One tip: organize your information in a spreadsheet with required materials, application fees, links to the online application sign-in, recommenders for each program, and deadlines. This will aid you later in the process!

Follow up on rec letters. Now is a good time to begin face-to-face meetings with potential recommenders. Update your resume so that you can send it to recommenders and they can write you a strong letter.

Decide if you need extra funding. To plan your finances, make a monthly budget with expected rent, food, transportation, prorated monthly tuition/fees, and any other potential costs. If the cost is more than what you have in savings or expected financial support (including loans), then you’ll need extra support.

If you need funding, look into potential options—many, such as the National Science Foundation’s Graduate Research Fellowship Program , require extra essays and have earlier deadlines.

Now is a good time to begin requesting transcripts, if you haven’t already. For most graduate applications, you must ensure you’ve requested transcripts from every university you’ve attended, even if you only studied there for a semester or it is located in another country.

Retake any standardized exams if you weren’t happy with the scores the first time around.

Begin writing your statement of purpose . A statement of purpose is a short essay that discusses your professional and academic interests and background.

You may also be required to write a personal statement , which should talk about your personal story and personal motivations for applying to graduate school. It may include your potential to bring an underrepresented perspective or add to the diversity of the program you’re applying to.

Send off your statement of purpose and personal statement to recommenders to aid their recommendation letters and to receive feedback.

It’s also a good idea to have your statements checked by a friend, family member or professional editor , who can help make sure your writing flows clearly and catch any grammatical mistakes.

A statement of purpose should be understandable to any professional in your field, even if they don’t specialize in your sub-discipline. Most graduate programs rely on a committee of professors throughout the field to evaluate applications, so there’s no guarantee yours will be read by an expert in your particular interest.

October is generally your last chance to retake any standardized exam whose scores you’re not happy with.

Perfect your statement of purpose and personal statement. It’s a good idea to take a week-long break from your applications so that you can approach them again with a fresh eye.

Many graduate applications are due this month. Remind your recommenders of the final deadlines, and finish up your application.

Ensure you have your perfected resume, transcripts, and final personal statement ready. Upload them—and don’t forget to pay the application fee if that’s required!

If you’re American and think you might want to take out any amount of loans to fund your degree, you should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) . Once completed, you’ll be eligible for a loan to fund up to 100% of the total cost of your degree, including both tuition and living costs.

February to April

Most graduate school results will come back in this time period. Many graduate schools offer in-person visit days in March and April. Some will even pay for your transportation and hotel costs. These visits will allow you to ask questions to faculty members and current students.

When choosing a graduate program, make sure to pay attention to how well the program fits your interests as well as its prestige. You should also pay attention to placement or job outcomes after graduation.

If you’re in a research degree, your supervisor is vitally important to your potential success—carefully evaluate your potential options (but remember that some advisors could leave, so you shouldn’t choose a program for just one potential supervisor!)

Try to hang out with current students in an informal setting to ask them questions you might not otherwise be comfortable asking. Ask what the work expectations are like—do they get time off? Do they feel like they’re being treated fairly? This is especially important for doctoral programs, which are several years long.

Make sure to read the fine print of any funding that you might receive. Will you have to teach or work in a certain position for a certain number of years afterwards? Choose carefully!

If you want to know more about college essays , academic writing , and AI tools , make sure to check out some of our other language articles with explanations, examples, and quizzes.

College essays

• College essay examples
• College essay format
• College essay style
• College essay length
• Diversity essays
• Scholarship essays

Academic writing

• Writing process
• Avoiding repetition
• Literature review
• Conceptual framework
• Dissertation outline
• Thesis acknowledgements
• Burned or burnt
• Canceled or cancelled
• Dreamt or dreamed
• Gray or grey
• Theater vs theatre

A good starting point to aim for is about 18 months before you would start the program, or 6–9 months before the applications are due.

In the first few months of the process, research programs and study for any standardized exams you might need.

You can then begin writing your personal statements and statements of purpose , as well as contacting people to write your letters of recommendation . Ensure that you give recommenders plenty of time to complete their letters (ideally around 2–4 months).

Most graduate school applications for American graduate programs are due in December or January for a September start.

Some types of programs, especially law school, are rolling applications, meaning that the earlier you apply, the earlier you’ll hear back. In this case, you should aim to apply as early as possible to maximize your chances.

Medical school follows a completely separate timeline with much earlier deadlines. If you’re applying for medical school, you should speak to advisors at your university for more information.

Some students apply to graduate school straight from undergrad, but it’s also common to go back to school later in life. The ideal time to do so depends on various financial, personal, and career considerations . Graduate school is a big commitment, so you should apply at a time when you can devote your full attention to it.

Your career path may also determine when you should apply. In some career fields, you can easily progress without a graduate degree, while in others—such as medicine, business, and law—it’s virtually impossible to move up the career ladder without a specific graduate degree.

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Types of graduate scholarships

Where to find graduate school scholarships, tips for applying and winning scholarships, graduate school scholarships and grants: how to fund your master's or phd.

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate student loans to write unbiased product reviews.

• Grad school scholarships provide funds to cover your educational costs. 
• In general, you don't have to repay scholarships or grants after graduation. 
• Start your search for grad school scholarships with your school's financial aid office.

Graduate school can help you take your career ambitions to the next level. But the cost can be very high. That's where grad school scholarships and grants come in. Scholarships and grants don't need to be repaid, which means you can leave school with minimum drag on your post-graduation finances.

Merit-based vs. need-based scholarships

Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on your academic achievements and other achievements. In contrast, need-based scholarships are awarded based on the financial need of the student.

Subject-specific scholarships

Beyond these need-based and merit-based scholarships, you can find specialized scholarships designed for particular fields of study or demographics. For example, you might find a scholarship opportunity based on your prior military experience or your desire to obtain a graduate degree in STEM.

Your university

Before you can snag a scholarship, you'll have to find the opportunity and apply for it. Your school's financial aid office is a good place to start your search because they might have information on school-specific scholarships.

Online scholarship databases

You can also find scholarship opportunities through online search engines, like the U.S. Department of Labor's free tool or Scholarships.com . To locate scholarships specific to you, filter searches by "graduate level" and your field of study.

Professional organizations and employers

Many organizations offer some form of scholarship or tuition reimbursement to students pursuing related careers, or those gaining skills to aid in their existing role.

Grant databases

Grants are another form of funding that you usually don't have to pay back. Below are some of the most popular grants for grad school:

• Federal grants: Some federal grants are available to graduate students, including the TEACH Grant, which is designed to prepare them for teaching at the elementary or secondary school level. After graduation, grant recipients must teach full-time for at least four years in a school that serves low-income students. Skipping the teaching commitment means you'll have to repay the funds. 
• State grants : Many states provide grant opportunities to students. In some cases, these grants are designed to support students pursuing a graduate degree that's relevant to the state's needs. 
• Institutional grants : Many colleges and universities provide grant opportunities to students. You can find out about these opportunities through your school's financial aid office. 
• Private grants: Some organizations and foundations offer grant funding to graduate students. In most cases, you'll need to meet some specific eligibility requirements to apply. 

Tapping into this source of free money for college is a worthwhile option. If you are interested in grant funding, start by filling out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to potentially tap into federal grant opportunities. 

In terms of state-level, institutional, and private grants, you'll need to do some research to find grants that might apply to your unique situation. Consider reaching out to your school's financial aid office, they might have more information on grant opportunities you can apply for.

When you find an enticing opportunity, it's important to craft a compelling application. Many scholarships require an essay, which could make or break your chances. 

"Writing essays for a graduate scholarship is not the same as it was for undergraduates," says Ben Ralston, president of Sachs Foundation , an organization that provides scholarship opportunities to Black Coloradans. 

"You are later in your career and can focus less on what you want to do with your education and more about what you have already accomplished," Ralston says. "Get specific in how graduate studies will develop more professional skills to build on previous accomplishments instead of speaking more generally about future goals."

Start early and apply often

It's important to note that the scholarship search process can take quite a bit of time, and once you've identified scholarships to apply for, you'll need time to prepare. Don't be selective with your scholarship applications; The more scholarships you apply to, the better your chances of winning.

Tailor your applications

When applying, personalize your essays and highlight how your experience aligns with the scholarship's mission. Be sure to triple-check your essays, and ensure that you're not referencing a separate scholarship opportunity from the one you're applying for.

Get strong letters of recommendation

Choose recommenders who can speak to your academic abilities and potential. This can be a teacher, employer, coworker, etc.

Grad school scholarship FAQs

Competition for graduate scholarships can be high, but many scholarships are available. Applying to a wide range increases your chances of success.

No, you don't. Scholarships are typically considered gift aid and don't need to be repaid.

While it's uncommon, there are some full-ride scholarships are available, especially for highly competitive programs or exceptional students.

• Main content

Fact-Checking Trump’s Speech and More: Day 4 of the Republican National Convention

A team of New York Times reporters followed the developments and fact-checked the speakers, providing context and explanation.

• Share full article

Former President Donald J. Trump accepted his party’s nomination during the final night of the Republican National Convention on Thursday, delivering a freewheeling, factually challenged and often ad-libbed speech.

Mr. Trump began by describing in detail the assassination attempt that left him with a bandaged ear. Then, he essentially staged a campaign rally, repeating familiar boasts and delving into a cascade of false and misleading claims about his own record and the state of the border, the economy and the world.

Here’s a fact-check of his remarks.

“We’ve got Right to Try. They were trying to get that for 52 years.”

— Former President Donald J. Trump

This needs context.

The “right to try” law of 2018 allows terminally ill patients to seek access to experimental medicine that is not yet fully approved by the Food and Drug Administration, but a similar program has been in place since the 1970s.

Jeanna Smialek

An inflation crisis “is just simply crushing our people, like never before — they’ve never seen anything like it.”

This is false..

Inflation peaked at 9.1 percent in the summer of 2022, but that is considerably lower than its peak of nearly 15 percent in the early 1980s.

Republicans will sometimes point out that the inflation methodology has changed since then — meaning that we are measuring price increases differently — but even accounting for those tweaks, economists have said that inflation was lower in 2022 than it was four decades earlier. Inflation is not, based on the data, crushing people like never before.

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“Our planet is teetering on the edge of World War III, and this will be a war like no other.”

This lacks evidence..

While there is an active war between Russia and Ukraine, and between Hamas and Israel, and fighting in Sudan, Myanmar and other countries, there is no evidence that a third world war is imminent.

In terms of previous world wars, according to the Encyclopaedia Britannica, an estimated 8.5 million soldiers were killed in World War I and an estimated 35 million to 60 million people died during World War II.

The concept of World War III has traditionally referred to a potential war between the United States and Russia, which is not imminent. President Biden has often said he is actively trying to avoid such a conflict even as he arms Kyiv in its war with Moscow.

Brad Plumer

“We will drill, baby, drill, and by doing that we will lead to a large-scale decline in prices.”

More drilling doesn’t always cause gasoline prices to plunge. Case in point: The United States is actually producing significantly more crude oil today under the Biden administration than it did under the Trump administration, yet gasoline prices are still higher than they were four years ago.

That’s because gasoline costs are also influenced by broader market forces that can cause the global price of crude oil to rise or fall. For instance, a big reason prices increased in 2022 was Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which disrupted the flow of crude across the globe. All else equal, an increase in U.S. oil drilling should put downward pressure on prices, but those other global factors also play a considerable role.

Angelo Fichera

“If you look at the arrow at the bottom, that’s the lowest level — the one on the bottom, heavy red arrow — that’s the lowest level of illegal immigrants ever to come into our country in recorded history right there, right there. And that was my last week in office.”

Mr. Trump presented an immigration graphic that he credited with saving his life during an assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania days earlier.

Moments before a gunman opened fire at the rally, Mr. Trump turned to gesture at the chart, a move that he said prevented him from being shot in the head . The shooting left his ear bloodied, killed one spectator and seriously injured two others.

In his acceptance speech on Thursday, he referred to a thick red arrow on the chart, titled “Illegal Immigration Into the U.S.,” that points to a significant drop in migrant crossings at the southern border during his presidency.

But despite text on the chart and Mr. Trump’s description at the convention, the arrow is actually pointing to a dip in early 2020 — when migration slowed globally during the coronavirus pandemic and the restrictions that followed — not during his last week in office. And that low did not last.

In March 2020, there were about 30,000 encounters at the southern border recorded by Border Patrol, according to Customs and Border Protection statistics . That dropped in April 2020 by almost half, to about 16,000.

In the months that followed, however, the number of migrants encountered at the border then climbed back up. During Mr. Trump’s last month in office, there were about 75,000 encounters by Border Patrol.

And contrary to Mr. Trump’s claim, even the low in 2020 was not the lowest “in recorded history.” Earlier in Mr. Trump’s presidency, the number of apprehensions at the border had dipped to about 11,000 in April 2017 , before the flow increased again.

Also, since 1925, total annual apprehensions nationwide by Border Patrol have often been lower than they were under Mr. Trump’s presidency, noted Michelle Mittelstadt, a spokeswoman for the nonpartisan Migration Policy Institute.

There is no arguing that the situation at the southern border grew worse during the Biden administration: In December, there were around 250,000 encounters .

In an effort to reverse course, President Biden recently announced severe restrictions on asylum, and illegal crossings have since significantly dropped . Border Patrol reported about 83,500 encounters in June.

“We gave you the largest tax cuts.”

The $1.5 trillion tax cut, enacted in December 2017, ranks below at least half a dozen other tax cuts by several metrics. The 1981 Reagan tax cut was the largest as a percentage of the economy and by its reduction to federal revenue. The 2012 Obama tax cut amounted to the largest reduction in inflation-adjusted dollars: $321 billion a year.

“We built most of the wall.”

During Mr. Trump’s 2016 campaign, he promised to build a wall spanning at least 1,000 miles along the southern border and have Mexico pay for it. That did not happen. Overall, the Trump administration constructed 458 miles of border barriers — most of which upgraded or replaced existing structures. Officials put up new primary barriers where none previously existed along only 47 miles.

“I will end every single international crisis that the current administration has created — including the horrible war with Russia and Ukraine, which would have never happened if I was president, and the war caused by the attack on Israel, which never would have happened if I were president.”

There is no evidence that President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia would not have invaded Ukraine if Donald J. Trump had been president of the United States in February 2022, when Russian forces began a full-scale war on Ukraine.

In fact, Mr. Trump supported one of Mr. Putin’s greatest desires — weakening the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Senior administration officials told The New York Times that several times over the course of 2018 Mr. Trump privately said he wanted to withdraw from NATO . And Mr. Trump was impeached for withholding Javelin missiles from Ukraine in 2019. Those missiles proved effective in blunting Russian armor advances into Ukraine in 2022.

“And then we had that horrible, horrible result that we’ll never let happen again. The election result. We’re never going to let that happen again. They used Covid to cheat.”

Mr. Trump has continued to falsely claim that the 2020 election was stolen from him. His assertions about widespread cheating are unsubstantiated. Since the election, the former president has used claims mischaracterizing the voting and counting process, cited baseless examples of fraud and peddled conspiracy theories.

“Just a few short years ago under my presidency, we had the most secure border and the best economy in the history of the world.”

This is exaggerated..

Apprehensions of unauthorized crossings along the southwest border in the 2017 fiscal year, which includes several months of the Obama administration, fell to the lowest point since the 1970s.

But they increased in subsequent years. In the 2019 fiscal year, apprehensions topped 800,000 and were the highest in a decade. And in the 2020 fiscal year, even as the coronavirus pandemic ground global movement to a halt, apprehensions were higher than in 2011, 2012 and 2015.

And when Mr. Trump left office, the coronavirus pandemic had decimated the economy with an unemployment rate of 6.4 percent in January 2021 and gross domestic product had not yet rebounded to pre-Covid levels. But even before all of that, annual average growth was lower under Mr. Trump than under Presidents Bill Clinton and Ronald Reagan.

“We had no inflation.”

The rate of inflation was indeed low under Mr. Trump, but it was not completely nonexistent.

Under Mr. Trump, the rate of inflation measured by the overall Consumer Price Index largely gravitated around 2 percent — with the rate slightly lower and higher some months — according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics . That dropped at the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, and inflation reached a low of 0.1 percent in May 2020 before trending upward.

“By the way, you know who’s taking the jobs? The jobs that are created? 107 percent of those jobs are taken by illegal aliens”

Official estimates of employment do not support Mr. Trump’s statement, which makes little sense. And estimates from various groups show that the population of unauthorized immigrants has grown in recent years, but not nearly enough to take all the jobs created during Mr. Biden’s presidency.

The economy has added more than 15 million jobs since January 2021. Two groups that advocate for lower levels of migration and stricter border security have estimated that there are 2.3 million to 2.5 million more unauthorized immigrants in 2023 than in 2020.

Overall, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated that 29.9 million foreign-born workers — both authorized and unauthorized — and 131.1 million native-born workers were employed in 2023. That is an increase of 5.1 million in employed foreign-born workers and 8.1 million native-born workers since 2020 .

“Our current administration, groceries are up 57 percent, gasoline is up 60 and 70 percent.”

Grocery prices are up substantially since Joseph R. Biden Jr. took office in early 2021, but not by 57 percent: The Consumer Price Index’s food-at-home index is up about 21 percent . Gas prices are up about 35 percent , depending upon the measure used.

Lisa Friedman

“Under the Trump administration, just three and a half years ago, we were energy independent. But soon we will actually be better than that. We will be energy dominant and supply not only ourselves, but we supply the rest of the world, with numbers that nobody has ever seen.”

This is misleading..

Under the Trump administration, the United States for the first time began to export more oil than it imported. Energy experts say that is not because of Trump’s policies, but because of the fracking boom that began during the George W. Bush administration and soared under President Barack Obama. It’s still happening.

In fact, under President Biden, the United States has become the biggest oil producer in the world and is producing more natural gas than ever before. The phrases “energy independence” and “energy dominance” also fail to take into account wind, solar and other renewable energy, which is growing at a rapid pace.

Alan Rappeport

“We will reduce our debt, $36 trillion, and we will reduce your taxes still further.”

Mr. Trump suggested that the national debt would be paid down by jump-starting economic growth. He made this promise during his first term, promising that $2 trillion of tax cuts would pay for themselves, and ended up approving more than $8 trillion of borrowing. The Republican platform this year makes no mention of debt or deficits but does call for cutting wasteful spending.

Also, the national debt currently stands at $34.9 trillion, not $36 trillion.

“They want to raise your taxes four times.”

Many elements of the 2017 tax cut Mr. Trump signed into law will expire in 2025, and Mr. Biden has proposed some tax increases on high-income earners and corporations. But this does not amount to a quadrupling of taxes.

The 2017 tax cuts are expected to reduce the average tax rate by 1.4 percent in 2025, according to the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center, a left-leaning Washington think tank. Most in the top 5 percent of income would see the greatest change, by 2.4 percent. Mr. Biden has also consistently said he does not support raising taxes on people making under $400,000 a year and, in his latest budget, proposed extending tax cuts for those making under that threshold.

Mr. Biden’s proposals would increase the average tax rate by about 1.9 percent, according to a Tax Policy Center analysis . The top 0.1 percent would see the biggest increase of about 13.9 percent, while the low income filers would see a reduction in taxes. That is no nowhere near the 300 percent increase Mr. Trump warned of.

“I will end the electric vehicle mandate on Day 1, thereby saving the U.S. auto industry from complete obliteration, which is happening right now, and saving U.S. customers thousands and thousands per car.”

There is no electric vehicle mandate. The Biden administration has imposed rules requiring carmakers to meet new average emissions limits across their entire product line. It is up to auto manufacturers how to comply. The Environmental Protection Agency has estimated that the rule would mean that by 2032, about 56 percent of new passenger vehicles sold would be electric and another 16 percent would be hybrids. Autoworkers do fear job losses because electric vehicles could require less than half the number of workers to assemble than cars with internal combustion engines do.

There is also no evidence that the rule or other policies aimed at encouraging electric vehicles are leading the automobile industry toward “obliteration.” Many automakers have, in fact, embraced electric vehicle production. General Motors, for example, has been talking about preparing for an “all-electric future” since 2017. The Biden administration has argued that its policies are aimed at moving electric vehicle jobs from China to the United States.

“We’re going to bring back car manufacturing.”

The American auto industry lost jobs under the Trump administration, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. General Motors, Ford and Fiat Chrysler all closed factories during Mr. Trump’s presidency.

“Probably the best trade deal was the deal I made with China, where they buy $50 billion worth of our product.”

The trade agreement that Mr. Trump signed with China in 2020 was quickly derailed by the coronavirus pandemic, and China never fulfilled its obligations to purchase American goods. And Mr. Trump gave an incorrect total for how much American product China was supposed to buy. A 2022 analysis by the Peterson Institute for International Economics found that China had bought none of the extra $200 billion of U.S. exports in the trade pact.

“Democrats are going to destroy Social Security and Medicare.”

President Biden has pledged not to make any cuts to America’s social safety net programs. Mr. Trump suggested this year that he was open to scaling back the programs when he said there was “a lot you can do in terms of entitlements in terms of cutting.” He later walked back those comments and pledged to protect the programs. But if changes to the programs are not made, the programs’ benefits will automatically be reduced eventually. Government reports released earlier this year projected that the Social Security and disability insurance programs, if combined, would not have enough money to pay all of their obligations in 2035. Medicare will be unable to pay all its hospital bills starting in 2036.

Hamed Aleaziz

The Biden administration “demolished Title 42.”

The Biden administration kept in place the Trump-era policy, known as Title 42, which allowed border agents to quickly turn back migrants and cut off access to asylum protections for more than a year.

The Biden administration did not move to get rid of Title 42 until spring 2022. The move was later blocked by a federal judge, which forced the administration to keep the policy in place.

During that time, the Biden administration expanded the use of the policy and began expelling Venezuelans to Mexico. It was later rolled back in 2023 by the Biden administration.

“In Venezuela, crime is down 72 percent.”

Mr. Trump claimed that crime had fallen drastically in Venezuela because the country had sent “their murderers” and prisoners to the United States. Annual reports from the Venezuelan Violence Observatory, a research organization based in Caracas, shows a 25 percent decline in the country’s homicide rate from 2022 to 2023 , and a 41 percent decline since 2020 . In comparison, the homicide rate declined even more precipitously while Mr. Trump was president, by almost 50 percent from 2016 .

The Venezuelan Prison Observatory told Univision in 2022, when Mr. Trump first made the claim, that the prisons in the country had not been emptied and rather were at 170 percent capacity. According to the group’s latest annual report, Venezuela’s prison population stood at 33,558 in 2022, about level with its 2021 population of 33,710. Immigration experts have said they could not corroborate Mr. Trump’s claims that other countries were “dumping” their criminal and prison populations into the United States.

“I was the first president in modern times to start no new wars.”

Depending on the definition of “modern times,” President Jimmy Carter started no new wars during his time in office between 1977 and 1981.

“The whole world was at peace. And now the whole world is blowing up around us. Under President Bush, Russia invaded Georgia. Under President Obama, Russia took Crimea. Under the current administration, Russia is after all of Ukraine. Under President Trump, Russia took nothing.”

Under Mr. Trump’s presidency, there was not global peace. While Mr. Trump was in the Oval Office, there was an active war in eastern Ukraine between the Russian and Ukrainian armies, he authorized airstrikes and ground combat operations against fighters of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, and he ordered the assassination of an Iranian military leader in Iraq.

“We defeated 100 percent of ISIS in Syria, something that was going to take five years — ‘It’ll take five years, sir’ — and I did it in two months.”

The American-led coalition campaign against the Islamic State began in 2014 . The research firm IHS Markit estimated that the Islamic State lost about a third of its territory from January 2015 to January 2017. Mr. Trump has largely stuck with, and taken advantage of, a strategy that Mr. Obama began , and the Islamic State lost its final territories in March 2019 , two years after Mr. Trump took office, not two months.

“I stopped the missile launches from North Korea.”

North Korea continued to test missiles during Mr. Trump’s time in the White House, a fact that the former president continually dismissed at the time .

“Our opponents inherited a planet at peace and turned it into a planet at war.”

While Russia had not invaded Ukraine and the war between Israel and Hamas had not broken out, it is a stretch to claim that the world was entirely peaceful under the Trump administration.

Average peacefulness declined in 2018 and 2020 , according to the Global Peace Index, an annual measure of violence around the world compiled by the Institute for Economics & Peace. During the Trump administration, the United States was also engaged in military conflicts in Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan and more than 60 American soldiers died in hostile action . When Mr. Trump left office, there were 2,500 troops remaining in Afghanistan.

“We also left $85 billion worth of military equipment” in Afghanistan.

Mr. Trump was once again referring to the total amount that the United States spent on security in Afghanistan over the course of 20 years — not the value of equipment left behind in the 2021 withdrawal.

The United States provided $88.6 billion for security in Afghanistan from October 2001 to July 2021, and disbursed about $75 billion, according to Pentagon figures .

That figure includes the amount spent on training, antidrug trafficking efforts and infrastructure, as well as $18 billion for equipment. CNN previously reported that about $7 billion worth of military equipment that the United States transferred to the Afghan government was left behind during the withdrawal.

“We will replenish our military and build an Iron Dome missile defense system to ensure that no enemy can strike our homeland. And this great Iron Dome will be built entirely in the U.S.A. and Wisconsin.”

The U.S. military’s budget continues to grow year by year, and the Iron Dome missile defense system is effective only against relatively short-range rockets and missiles. Installing an Iron Dome across the country would in no way ensure that an enemy could not strike the United States.

“They spent $9 billion on eight chargers.”

— Former President Donald J. Trump.

This is false .

This is an inflated claim of another false statement Mr. Trump has made on the campaign trail about electric vehicle charging stations. (He recently said that the Biden administration had “opened seven chargers for $8 billion.”)

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which President Biden signed in 2021, allocated $7.5 billion for electric vehicle charging stations, with the goal of installing 500,000 across the country.

So far, only seven chargers have been installed — not a great pace. But the suggestion that the entire amount was used on seven chargers is not accurate. The Biden administration has argued that the pace is the result of wanting to get a complex new national program done right.

“He decided to leave behind the comforts of an unbelievable business empire. To leave behind everything he had ever built. To answer the call to serve our nation. Unlike his predecessor, it was not a decision born out of necessity. Unlike the current president, it was not a decision that would enrich his family.”

— Eric Trump, a son of Donald J. Trump

Former President Donald J. Trump did not divest from his businesses when he assumed the presidency, and his critics argue that his companies did benefit from his being in public office. Mr. Trump’s businesses received nearly $8 million from 20 foreign governments during his time in office, according to documents released by House Democrats this year. Much of that was from China. The nonprofit OpenSecrets has also tracked millions of dollars flowing to Trump properties from political entities and groups in recent years, suggesting that those seeking favor with Mr. Trump may do so through his properties.

“He slashed regulations.”

This needs context ..

As president, Donald J. Trump indeed slashed regulations, rolling back more than 100 environmental protections alone. The bulk of those were aimed at keeping the air and water clean, and cutting planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions from automobiles and power plants.

However, the Trump administration’s attempt to deregulate was also often thwarted by the courts. All told, the Trump administration lost 57 percent of cases challenging its environmental policies, a much higher rate of loss than previous administrations, according to a database maintained by New York University’s Institute for Policy Integrity .

“The U.S. dollar has been diminished.”

The value of the U.S. dollar is stronger than it has been in decades . This year, the dollar index, which measures the strength of the currency against the currencies of six major trading partners, has been hovering at levels last seen in the early 2000s.

Eric Trump’s suggestion that the dollar has been diminished is actually at odds with his father’s recent suggestion that the dollar is too strong, making American exports too expensive abroad.

Former President Donald J. Trump and Senator J.D. Vance, his running mate, have both argued that a weaker dollar would be better for the U.S. economy and have suggested that steps should be taken to depreciate the currency.

“In 2019, I was with him at the United Nations when the first president of history of this country stood there to advocate for religious liberty worldwide.”

— Franklin Graham, the evangelical leader

President Donald J. Trump hosted a United Nations event on religious freedom in 2019 in New York. At the time, he characterized it as the first time a U.S. president had hosted such a meeting. But aside from specific meetings, Mr. Trump’s appearance was certainly not the first time that an American president had championed religious freedom before the United Nations. President Barack Obama did so in a 2012 address to the General Assembly . President George W. Bush pressed the importance of religious liberty in a 2008 interfaith event.

“We’ve lost more Americans from drugs in the past four years than we lost in World War II. Yeah. Our bloodiest war. More than we lost in World War II. Does anybody care? It is pathetic. It is pathetic. And do you hear a single word from Washington about doing anything about it?”

— Tucker Carlson, Trump ally and former Fox News host

Mr. Carlson can certainly argue that lawmakers have not done enough to address the opioid crisis in the United States, but his suggestion that they have done nothing is wrong. The Congressional Research Service listed several major legislative efforts in 2016, 2018, 2019 and 2021.

These laws, according to the research service, “addressed overprescribing and misuse of opioids, expanded substance use disorder prevention and treatment capacities, bolstered drug diversion capabilities, and enhanced international drug interdiction, counternarcotics cooperation and sanctions efforts.”

Annual funding for border security and the Drug Enforcement Administration has tried to directly address drug trafficking. The bipartisan border bill that failed this past spring would have also included increased funding for enforcement efforts and new technology to detect drug smuggling. Former President Donald J. Trump lobbied against its passage.

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Why study a masters in the usa, how popular is masters study abroad in the usa, how long is a masters degree in the usa, how much does it cost to study a masters in the usa, will i need a visa to study a masters in the usa, learn more about studying a masters in the usa.

Vedere Institute

Vedere Institute is a trailblazer in transformative education, offering specialized graduate programs designed to empower future leaders and drive real-world impact. Our difference lies in our commitment to individualized attention and care for each student, our results-oriented approach that ensures tangible outcomes, our flexible online learning format without compromising quality, and our industry-relevant curriculum emphasizing practical application. With a dedicated team of experienced educators and a focus on nurturing a supportive learning community, Vedere Institute stands out as the premier choice for career-driven professionals and recent graduates. We are committed to providing a learning environment where students are not just passive recipients of knowledge but active participants in their growth journey. Our mission is to equip our students with the skills, mindset, and tools necessary to become leaders in their industries and effect meaningful change in the world.

Rochester Institute of Technology USA

Study in New York with one of the world’s leading technological institutions

The New School

We don’t just expand conventional boundaries—we redraw them

Master of Science in Applied Data Science (MSADS)

Vedere institute programme listings.

Application Deadline: 31 January 2025

At Vedere Institute , we are excited to offer our new MSADS program, designed to help meet the increasing demand for advanced analytical and technical competencies. Read more

Master of Science in Healthcare Management (MSHM)

At Vedere Institute , we are proud to offer a Master of Science in Healthcare Management (MSHM) degree that has its roots in measurable, real-world business success. Read more

Artificial Intelligence in Computer Science Adv. Cert

Rochester institute of technology usa masters programs.

The advanced certificate in artificial intelligence for computer science is intended for those who want to advance their understanding of artificial intelligence. Read more

Computer Science (M.S.)

St. cloud state university postgraduate programs.

The Computer Science program will introduce you to core areas of advanced computing architecture, advanced operating systems and theories and algorithms used in computing. Read more

Construction Management MS (Online)

Online Exclusively Co-op/Internship Encouraged 100% Outcome Rate of RIT Graduates from this degree  88K+ Annual Salary for these Jobs 11% Employment Growth in this Field 40% Demand Growth for Quality Control Construction management jobs will grow 11% by 2030, double the overall labor market growth. Read more

Doctor of Behavioral Health

Cummings institute masters opportunities.

Be on the forefront of integrated behavioral healthcare as a Doctor of Behavioral Health. The Doctor of Behavioral Health graduate degree program (DBH) prepares integrated care professionals to best deliver whole-person healthcare to diverse communities and to improve access to quality healthcare for all people. Read more

Engineering Management MS

University of arizona department of systems & industrial engineering.

The MS in Engineering Management is designed for graduate engineers and scientists aspiring to advance into management careers within technological organizations. Read more

Environmental Policy and Sustainability Management (MS)

The new school schools of public engagement (spe).

Address urgent global issues, find just solutions for all communities. The New School is at the forefront of addressing global environmental issues, thanks to the Environmental Policy and Sustainability Management (EPSM) program. Read more

Georgia WebMBA

University of west georgia georgia webmba.

Advance your career with the  Georgia WebMBA. Read more

Valdosta State University Georgia WebMBA

Georgia southern university georgia webmba, augusta university georgia webmba, georgia college georgia webmba, columbus state university georgia webmba, kennesaw state university georgia webmba, showing results to of 76.

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