M.S. in Counseling - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The CMHC program at Missouri State University leads to a Master of Science (M.S.) degre...
M.S.Ed. in Secondary Education
Springfield, Missouri
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.S.Ed. in Secondary Education at Missouri State University is typically a 30-36 credit hour program, with variations depending on the chosen emphasis area and whether a thesis option is pursued. It is primarily for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree and often, teaching certification. The program is flexible, with options for online, seated, or hybrid course delivery to accommodate working teachers. Graduates are prepared for upward mobility on their career ladder, increased pay scales, and often, the ability to teach dual-credit courses in their subject area.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the M.S.Ed. in Secondary Education is structured to provide advanced study in both educational theory and specific subject matter. While general education coursework focuses on advanced teaching methods, curriculum development, and educational research, a significant portion of the program is dedicated to the student's chosen emphasis area. For example, a student in Chemistry Education would take advanced chemistry courses alongside their education pedagogy. This dual focus ensures graduates not only understand effective teaching strategies but also possess deep expertise in their content area. The program often culminates in a comprehensive exam or a capstone experience, which may involve a literature review or a project applying research to an educational challenge.
Research Focus: The M.S.Ed. in Secondary Education program at Missouri State integrates a practical research focus. While not always requiring a full thesis, the curriculum emphasizes facilitating students' critical thinking in their content areas through reading, synthesizing, and reflecting on educational literature. Courses may include "Research Methods in Education" or similar, equipping teachers with the skills to interpret educational research, evaluate their own teaching practices, and implement evidence-based strategies in their classrooms. Some emphasis areas may offer a thesis option, allowing for deeper engagement in original educational research. This focus empowers teachers to become reflective practitioners and contribute to the ongoing improvement of educational outcomes.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement in the M.S.Ed. in Secondary Education program primarily revolves around its direct connection to K-12 school systems. The program is designed for current or aspiring secondary educators, and its practical application is immediately relevant to the classroom setting. Faculty members often have extensive experience as K-12 educators and administrators, bringing real-world insights and connections to the program. While formal internships may not be a standard requirement for those already teaching, the program emphasizes skills that directly enhance professional practice in schools, such as curriculum leadership, instructional innovation, and assessment. These advanced credentials directly impact career advancement and pay scales within the education sector.
Global Perspective: The M.S.Ed. in Secondary Education program at Missouri State University encourages a global perspective by preparing educators to teach in an increasingly interconnected world. While the primary focus is on the U.S. educational context, the program may touch upon national and international educational systems, characteristics of 21st-century classrooms, and culturally responsive teaching. The university's broader Public Affairs mission, which includes cultural competence, implicitly encourages educators to foster an understanding of diverse perspectives and global issues within their subject matter. Graduates are prepared to engage with students from varied backgrounds and to integrate globally relevant topics into their curriculum, thereby cultivating globally-minded citizens.
Location
Springfield, Missouri
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 15914
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $72
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% 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 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Missouri State University offers several scholarship opportunities designed specifically to support international students in pursuing their higher education goals. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to campus life, helping reduce the financial burden for international learners.
International Excellence Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship awards to outstanding first-time international freshmen. The scholarship is renewable for up to three additional years. Eligibility is based on strong academic records, and recipients must maintain satisfactory academic progress to continue receiving the award.
International Leadership Scholarship: Targeting international freshmen who demonstrate exceptional leadership and academic achievement. It is renewable for up to four years. Applicants are required to submit an essay highlighting their leadership experiences and vision. The scholarship is competitive, with only about 10 awards granted each year.
Additional Scholarships and Grants: Besides the primary scholarships, Missouri State University provides various other financial awards through departmental scholarships, honors programs, and special initiatives. Some scholarships may require separate applications or nominations based on the student's major or area of study.
A Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) in Secondary Education from Missouri State University offers a significant advantage for educators seeking to elevate their careers and impact students in middle and high school settings. Beyond providing deeper content knowledge and refined pedagogical skills, this degree opens doors to leadership roles, increased earning potential, and the ability to specialize in high-demand subjects. Graduates emerge as highly qualified, reflective practitioners ready to navigate the complexities of modern education.
High School Teacher (Advanced/Dual Credit): The most direct path, a master's degree enhances a teacher's expertise, leading to higher pay scales within school districts. It also qualifies teachers to instruct advanced placement (AP) or dual-credit courses, allowing high school students to earn college credit.
Curriculum Specialist/Developer: Graduates can move into roles focused on designing, evaluating, and implementing educational curricula. They work with school districts to ensure that teaching materials and strategies align with state standards and student learning objectives.
Instructional Coach: Experienced teachers with an M.S.Ed. often become instructional coaches, mentoring and supporting other teachers in improving their classroom practices, implementing new teaching strategies, and integrating technology effectively.
Department Head/Lead Teacher: With advanced subject matter expertise and leadership skills, graduates can lead academic departments within secondary schools. They manage curriculum, supervise teachers, and contribute to departmental goals.
Assistant Principal/Principal (Requires Educational Leadership Focus/Additional Certification): While requiring specific coursework in educational leadership and potentially additional state certification (such as the Educational Leadership M.S.Ed. program offered by Missouri State), the M.S.Ed. in Secondary Education serves as a strong foundation for aspiring school administrators who want to oversee the day-to-day operations and strategic direction of a school.
Educational Consultant: Graduates can leverage their expertise to consult for educational organizations, non-profits, or even private companies. They might advise on curriculum development, teacher training, or educational technology integration.
Adult Basic and Secondary Education Teacher: An M.S.Ed. in Secondary Education prepares individuals to teach adult learners working towards their high school equivalency or seeking to improve foundational academic skills in adult education programs.
District-Level Administrator (e.g., Coordinator of Instruction): Beyond individual schools, graduates can pursue administrative roles at the district level, focusing on system-wide initiatives related to curriculum, assessment, or professional development for all secondary schools in a district.
Postsecondary Instructor (Community College): An M.S.Ed. often qualifies graduates to teach introductory courses in their subject area at community colleges, providing an opportunity to educate a diverse range of adult learners.
Education Policy Analyst: With an understanding of educational research and a deep insight into secondary education, graduates can contribute to the development and evaluation of educational policies for government agencies, think tanks, or advocacy groups.
