M.Ed. Secondary Education

Virginia

 

INTAKE: Jan, May & Aug

Program Overview

The M.Ed. in Secondary Education at Marymount is a 36-credit program that can typically be completed in 1 to 2 years for full-time students. It provides initial teaching licensure in Virginia across various content areas, including Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, English, History and Social Science, Mathematics, or Physics. The program offers flexible scheduling with courses available in the afternoons and evenings, as well as in hybrid and online formats, accommodating both full-time students and working professionals. A significant component is the 14-week student-teaching internship, providing intensive field experience.

Curriculum: The curriculum is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of secondary education theory and practice, alongside content-specific methodology. Core courses include "Foundations of Education and the Teaching Profession," "Special Education: Foundations and Characteristics of Exceptional Learners," "Instruction and Assessment," "Effective Classroom Management," and "Educational Technology." Crucially, students also take specific methods courses tailored to their chosen licensure area, such as "Teaching Science in Secondary Schools" or "Teaching English in Secondary Schools." The program emphasizes literacy across the curriculum, culturally responsive classroom management, and the use of technology for instruction. The culminating experience is the student-teaching internship, providing extensive practical application.

Research Focus: The M.Ed. in Secondary Education program at Marymount emphasizes evidence-based teaching practices and the application of research to improve student outcomes. While it is a practitioner-focused degree leading to licensure, students are trained to critically evaluate educational research and integrate effective strategies into their teaching. Faculty members are experienced teacher-scholars who guide students in applying research findings to real-world classroom challenges. Students may also have opportunities to participate in faculty-sponsored or independent research, with some graduates presenting their findings at conferences, fostering their development as reflective practitioners and contributors to the field.

Industry Engagement: Marymount University has strong ties to the K-12 educational community in the greater Washington, D.C., area, which is vital for the M.Ed. in Secondary Education program. The 14-week student-teaching internship is a cornerstone of this engagement, providing intensive, hands-on experience in partner schools (public, private, and parochial). This allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in diverse classroom settings under the mentorship of experienced educators. Faculty members, many of whom have extensive backgrounds in secondary education, bring practical insights and current trends into the classroom. The program's focus on contemporary teaching methods, classroom management, and leveraging technology ensures graduates are well-prepared for the demands of today's middle and high school environments.

Global Perspective: The M.Ed. in Secondary Education at Marymount University fosters a global perspective through its curriculum, diverse student body, and opportunities for international engagement. Courses like "Cross-Cultural/International Curricula" or "Global Perspectives for the Special Educational Needs of All Students" expose students to different educational systems and cultural contexts. The program attracts students from various backgrounds, enriching classroom discussions and preparing future educators to teach in increasingly diverse classrooms and to instill in their students an understanding of global issues. Furthermore, Marymount offers dynamic study abroad programs in countries like Colombia, Panama, New Zealand, and Uganda, providing immersive experiences in different educational systems and preparing graduates to be culturally responsive educators in an interconnected world.

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Location

Virginia

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Score

IELTS 6.5

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

USD 17820

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.

English Language Proficiency:

  • IELTS: Overall band score of  6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
  • TOEFL: Overall score of 96 or higher.
  • PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
  • DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.

Marymount University in the United States is supporting international students through a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. These scholarships help make a high-quality education more affordable and accessible for students from around the world.

Merit-Based Scholarships: Marymount offers several merit-based scholarships specifically for international students. These awards are typically based on academic performance, standardized test scores, and leadership potential. Some scholarships are automatically considered during the admissions process, while others require a separate application.

Global Scholarship: One of the key awards available to international students is the Global Scholarship, which provides significant tuition reduction for high-achieving students. This scholarship rewards students who demonstrate outstanding academic credentials and a global engagement.

Distinguished International Student Award: Marymount also offers the Distinguished International Student Award for exceptional students who contribute to campus diversity and show strong leadership qualities. This award helps to encourage a vibrant, multicultural student community.

Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships: Graduate students may have access to assistantships and fellowships that provide tuition remission and stipends in exchange for research or teaching support. These opportunities not only ease financial burdens but also enrich academic and professional development.

A Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Secondary Education from Marymount University is a highly effective credential for individuals aspiring to teach and lead in middle and high school settings. This CAEP-accredited program focuses on developing advanced pedagogical skills, subject-specific instructional methods, and a deep understanding of adolescent development. Graduates are prepared for Virginia licensure in various content areas, making them highly marketable in a field that constantly seeks dedicated and skilled educators.

Secondary School Teacher (6-12): This is the primary career path. Graduates teach specific subjects like English, History, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, or Physics in middle and high schools. They design engaging lessons, assess student learning, manage classrooms, and guide adolescent development.

Instructional Coach (Secondary): Experienced teachers with an M.Ed. can become instructional coaches, providing support and professional development to other secondary school teachers. They work collaboratively to refine teaching strategies, implement new curricula, and improve classroom effectiveness.

Curriculum Developer/Specialist (Secondary): Graduates can work at the school or district level to design, evaluate, and revise curriculum for middle and high school subjects. They ensure alignment with educational standards, select appropriate resources, and develop innovative learning materials.

Department Head/Lead Teacher: Within a secondary school, graduates can take on leadership roles overseeing a specific academic department (e.g., English, Math, Science). They may be involved in curriculum oversight, teacher evaluations, and professional development within their subject area.

Educational Technology Specialist: These professionals help secondary schools integrate technology effectively into teaching and learning. They train teachers on new digital tools, manage learning management systems, and identify innovative ways to use technology to enhance student engagement and outcomes.

Special Education Teacher (Secondary, with additional endorsement): While a specific M.Ed. in Special Education is offered, an M.Ed. in Secondary Education can provide a foundation to pursue additional endorsements in special education, enabling graduates to work with diverse learners with special needs in inclusive or specialized secondary settings.

School Administrator (Assistant Principal): With further experience, an M.Ed. in Secondary Education can serve as a stepping stone to school administration roles, such as assistant principal. These roles involve supporting school leadership, managing student affairs, and overseeing day-to-day operations.

Educational Consultant: Graduates can work independently or for consulting firms, advising school districts, private schools, or educational organizations on secondary curriculum reform, instructional strategies, teacher training, or program evaluation.

Online Course Designer/Developer: With the growing demand for online learning, graduates can specialize in designing and developing engaging and effective online courses for middle and high school students, often for educational technology companies or online learning platforms.

Test Developer/Assessment Specialist: Graduates with a strong understanding of curriculum and assessment can work for educational publishing companies or testing organizations, developing standardized tests, rubrics, and other assessment tools for secondary education.


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