Join us at one of our upcoming virtual Graduate School Open House events on Zoom!
You鈥檒l have the opportunity to learn more about 蘑菇短视频,
participate in a Q&A with current students, and meet key program representatives.
What You'll Learn
The M.A.Ed. programs equip students with advanced knowledge in the chosen area of
concentration while expanding their understanding of child and educational psychology
and exploring innovative approaches to building intentional curricula, while candidates
simultaneously hone and develop research skills. Qualified candidates choose a concentration
based on their desired areas of growth and current credentials. Concentrations include
Special Education with an emphasis on Mild to Moderate disabilities (General Curriculum),
Special Education with an emphasis on Severe/Profound disabilities (Adapted Curriculum),
Special Education with an emphasis on Gifted, Creative, and Innovative Education (AIG),
Special Education with and emphasis in Educational Studies (non-licensure), Literacy
Education (K-9), STEM Education (K-12), and English Education (9-12). The programs
include both hours in the professional core and hours in the concentration area that
incorporate National Board Certification preparation support through intentional course
assignments and feedback. All M.A.Ed. programs lead successful candidates to a recommendation
for Advanced Competencies licensure (SP2) from the North Carolina Department of Public
Instruction with the exception of the Special Education Educational Studies (non-licensure)
program which is perfect for candidates who are pursuing career opportunities in educational
settings that do not require a teacher certification, such as private schools, adult
respite services, or higher education programs for adults with disabilities.
Where You'll Go
Educators with an M.A.Ed. have more opportunities for lateral movement, teaching advanced
courses, and working in collegiate environments. Graduates often pursue administrative
positions or use their advanced content knowledge and leadership skills to work as
instructional coordinators, trainers or teachers in businesses outside of education.
The Masters of Arts in Education offers opportunities for individuals who already
hold a North Carolina teaching license to become more professionally competitive.
This 30-33 hour degree can open doors and provide a new level of understanding and
expertise in the field. We offer the M.A.Ed. in Comprehensive Education with concentrations
in Literacy, Special Education, and STEM completing online, while the concentration
in English requires classes both online and in person on WCU's Cullowhee campus. The
College of Education and Allied Professions is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation
of Education Preparation (CAEP).
Degree Options
School:
College of Education & Allied Professions, School of Teaching & Learning
Location:
Special Education: Online
Literacy: Online
STEM: Online
English: Both online and face-to-face classes in Cullowhee are required
Length:
Part-Time & Full-Time Options 鈥� Designed for licensed teachers seeking advanced credentials
Time to Complete:
30鈥�33 graduate semester hours that at typically completed in 5-6 semesters of part-time
(6 hours/semester) coursework. Coursework is offered in fall, spring, and summer
semesters.
Check the 蘑菇短视频Graduate School application deadlines (varies by cycle)
School:
College of Education & Allied Professions, School of Teaching & Learning
Location:
100% Online
Length:
Part-Time & Full-Time Options 鈥� Designed for career changers
Time to Complete:
Approximately 24鈥�30 months (varies with concentration & internship timeline)
Credits:
36 - 39 credit hours
App Deadline:
Check the 蘑菇短视频Graduate School application deadlines (varies by cycle)
School:
College of Education & Allied Professions, School of Teaching & Learning
Location:
12 credit hours (4 classes)
Length:
Part time/Flexible
Time to Complete:
1 year (typical completion; dependent on course load)
Credits:
12 credit hours
App Deadline:
Check the 蘑菇短视频Graduate School application deadlines (varies by cycle)
More About WCU's M.A.Ed. Comprehensive Education
The MAEd offers intentional, practice鈥慺ocused coursework that not only strengthens
instructional skill but also provides structured support for teachers pursuing National Board Certification. Through thoughtfully designed assignments, reflective practice, and faculty mentorship,
students engage in work that aligns with National Board standards鈥攁llowing them to
make meaningful progress toward certification while completing their degree. Whether
studying online or on campus, MAEd students join a community committed to educational
excellence and to preparing the next generation of teacher鈥憀eaders.
Every aspect of the MAEd Comprehensive Education program is built around authentic,
school鈥慴ased application. Assignments, projects, and assessments are designed to address
real challenges in today鈥檚 classrooms, empowering teachers to implement evidence鈥慴ased
strategies that improve student learning. As candidates progress through the program,
they not only enhance their own practice but also contribute to meaningful instructional
improvement within their schools and districts.
The MAEd Comprehensive Education programs are aligned with state and national professional
teaching standards, ensuring that graduates are prepared for advanced roles in curriculum
development, instructional coaching, and school leadership. This standards鈥慸riven
approach strengthens teachers鈥� professional portfolios and positions them for career
advancement, salary increases, and expanded opportunities within the field of education.
Students in the MAEd Comprehensive Education program benefit from close collaboration
with faculty who are experienced educators, researchers, and instructional leaders.
Through personalized feedback, mentorship, and opportunities for professional reflection,
candidates receive individualized support that strengthens their instructional decision鈥憁aking
and deepens their understanding of effective teaching. This high鈥憈ouch learning environment
helps educators refine their craft and expand their leadership capacity.
Related Programs
Explore our related programs until you find the one that鈥檚 right for you.
