M.A. in Secondary Education

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

Academic Requirements:

1. Minimum Percentage: International students applying for postgraduate programs at UNM typically need to have a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The minimum academic requirement is usually a bachelor's degree with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) equivalent to 60% or above on a 4.0 scale. UNM may also consider equivalent grading systems from other countries.
    

English Language Proficiency Requirements:

1. IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 or higher, with no individual band score less than 6.0.  

2. TOEFL iBT: The minimum TOEFL iBT score requirement is often 79 or higher.  

3. PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum PTE score of 53 is required.

Scholarships for International Students at the University of New Mexico:

1. Global Education Office Scholarships: UNM's Global Education Office (GEO) offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are merit-based and can be awarded to both undergraduate and graduate students. They may cover tuition and fees, living expenses, or a combination of both.

2. International Amigo Scholarship: This scholarship is aimed at fostering cultural exchange and friendship between international students and the local community. It provides financial assistance to international students while also encouraging them to engage in community service and cultural outreach activities.

3. Graduate Assistantships: UNM offers graduate assistantships to qualified international graduate students. These assistantships may involve teaching, research, or administrative duties. They often come with a stipend, tuition remission, and health insurance benefits.

4. College or Departmental Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within UNM may have their own scholarships for international students pursuing specific fields of study. These scholarships are typically based on academic achievements, research interests, or other criteria relevant to the department.

5. Private and External Scholarships: UNM encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by international foundations, government agencies, and private organizations. The Global Education Office provides guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for such scholarships.

6. Fulbright Scholarships: UNM participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships to international students, scholars, and professionals. The university assists eligible international applicants in the Fulbright application process.

7. Cultural and Country-Specific Scholarships: Some cultural or country-specific organizations and foundations offer scholarships to students from particular regions or countries. International students should research opportunities related to their background and nationality.

8. Merit-Based Scholarships: UNM awards merit-based scholarships to outstanding international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and leadership qualities. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs.

9. Research Scholarships: International graduate students in research-intensive programs may have the opportunity to receive research scholarships from faculty members conducting research projects. These scholarships often include a stipend and tuition support.

10. Diversity Scholarships: UNM is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion. Some scholarships are awarded to international students who contribute to the university's diversity through their experiences, backgrounds, or interests.

It's important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria may vary from year to year. Additionally, students are encouraged to meet academic and application requirements to enhance their chances of receiving scholarships.

The M.A. in Secondary Education program at the University of New Mexico (UNM) is designed to prepare educators for rewarding careers in secondary education, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a meaningful impact on the lives of middle and high school students. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for diverse career opportunities within the field of education.  

1. Secondary School Teacher: The most common career path for M.A. in Secondary Education graduates is becoming a secondary school teacher. Graduates are qualified to teach their subject specialization, such as mathematics, science, English, social studies, or foreign languages, to middle and high school students.

2. Curriculum Developer: Graduates can work as curriculum developers, contributing to the creation and revision of educational materials, lesson plans, and curriculum standards. They may be employed by school districts, educational publishers, or nonprofit organizations focused on curriculum development.

3. Educational Consultant: Some graduates become educational consultants, offering their expertise to schools, school districts, or educational organizations. They may provide guidance on instructional strategies, curriculum development, and best practices in teaching and learning.

4. Education Administrator: With additional experience and leadership skills, graduates may pursue roles as education administrators, such as principals, assistant principals, department heads, or curriculum coordinators, overseeing various aspects of school operations and instructional leadership.

5. Special Education Teacher: Graduates interested in special education can choose to become special education teachers, working with students who have disabilities and providing tailored instruction and support to meet their unique needs.

6. Educational Technology Specialist: For those with an interest in technology, roles as educational technology specialists involve integrating digital tools, software, and online resources into the classroom to enhance teaching and learning experiences.

7. Adult Education Instructor: Some graduates opt to work as adult education instructors, teaching adult learners in settings such as community colleges, adult education centers, or workplace training programs.

8. Curriculum Coordinator: Curriculum coordinators oversee the development and implementation of curriculum standards, educational materials, and assessment tools within school districts. They play a critical role in ensuring alignment with state and national education standards.

9. Education Policy Analyst: Graduates passionate about education policy may work as policy analysts, contributing to the development, evaluation, and advocacy of education policies at various levels, including district, state, or federal levels.

10. International School Teacher: Opportunities exist for educators to teach at international schools, providing a culturally diverse and globally oriented teaching experience.

11. Educational Researcher: Graduates with a research interest can pursue careers in educational research, conducting studies and research projects to inform educational practices, policies, and improvements.

12. Nonprofit Education Roles: Some graduates choose to work in nonprofit organizations dedicated to education, focusing on providing tutoring, mentoring, college readiness programs, and educational support to students in underserved communities.

13. Teacher Trainer or Mentor: Experienced graduates may take on roles as teacher trainers or mentors, guiding and supporting newly certified teachers in their professional development.

14. Higher Education Instructor: Graduates interested in higher education may teach education courses at colleges and universities, preparing future educators for their teaching careers.

15. Content Specialist: Graduates with a strong background in a specific subject area may become content specialists, collaborating with schools or districts to improve curriculum and instruction in their specialized subject.

16. Academic Advisor: Some graduates work as academic advisors in educational institutions, assisting students in selecting courses, setting academic goals, and ensuring they meet graduation requirements.

17. Entrepreneurship: Entrepreneurial graduates may start their own educational consulting firms, tutoring services, or education-related businesses, offering personalized instruction or educational resources.