M.A. in Secondary Education
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Secondary Education at Roosevelt University is an intensiv...
M.A. in Middle School Education
Chicago, Illinois
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.A. in Middle School Education is an intensive, field-based program consisting of 33 credit hours. It is typically completed in two years for full-time students and combines in-person and online classes delivered on the Chicago campus. A crucial element of the program is a full-semester, in-person student teaching placement during the final semester, providing invaluable hands-on experience under the guidance of a mentor teacher and university supervisor. Admissions are generally open for fall start dates. The program leads directly to an Illinois Professional Educator License with a Middle School endorsement in a chosen content area (Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, or Social Studies). It also offers pathways to additional endorsements such as Bilingual/ESL or Special Education (LBS 1). Roosevelt University prides itself on its 100% pass rate on the edTPA, the capstone assessment for Illinois teaching licensure, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in preparing future educators.
Curriculum: The curriculum is robust and designed to provide a deep understanding of adolescent development, effective teaching methodologies, and content-specific instruction. Core courses typically include "Child & Adolescent Development, Learning, and Motivation," "Exceptional Children & Youth," "Foundations of Bilingual and ESL Education," "Methods of Teaching Reading in K-8 Education," "Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment," and "Creating Integrated Content & Learning Communities in Middle Childhood Education." Students also take methods courses specific to their chosen content area (e.g., Methods of Teaching Mathematics in the Elementary School, Strategies/Materials Literacy & Social Studies K-8). The program heavily emphasizes field experiences through "Individualized Coaching & Field Experience" courses (I, II, III) that precede the culminating 6-credit "Student Teaching Seminar: Middle School." This structure ensures practical application of theoretical knowledge in diverse classroom settings.
Research Focus: The M.A. in Middle School Education program at Roosevelt University integrates an applied research focus, preparing educators to be reflective practitioners who can utilize data to inform their teaching. While not a traditional academic research degree, the curriculum encourages students to engage with research methods and critical inquiry. Courses on child and adolescent development and exceptional children implicitly require an understanding of relevant research in these fields. Through the program's emphasis on assessment, students learn to collect, analyze, and interpret student data to evaluate learning, identify needs, and adjust instructional strategies. The focus is on preparing teachers who can implement evidence-based practices and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement within schools.
Industry Engagement: Roosevelt University demonstrates strong industry engagement for its M.A. in Middle School Education program through its deep partnerships with various school districts, including Chicago Public Schools and suburban districts. These collaborations facilitate extensive and diverse field experiences and student teaching placements, providing students with invaluable direct classroom exposure. The program's faculty often consists of experienced educators and practitioners who bring current insights from the field into the classroom, ensuring the curriculum remains relevant and practical. Roosevelt graduates are highly sought after and work in a variety of public and private middle schools across Illinois, indicating strong ties to the K-12 education sector and successful career outcomes for alumni.
Global Perspective: Roosevelt University fosters a global perspective within its M.A. in Middle School Education program by emphasizing social justice and preparing educators to work with diverse student populations. Courses such as "Foundations of Bilingual and ESL Education" directly address the needs of students from various linguistic and cultural backgrounds, a common reality in many urban and globalized communities. The program's core mission to prepare teachers who can "work democratically with diverse children and families, including those with special needs and second language backgrounds," inherently promotes an understanding of global interconnectedness and cultural responsiveness. This focus ensures graduates are equipped to create inclusive learning environments that respect and leverage the diverse experiences of all middle school students.
Location
Chicago, Illinois
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 27712
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $42
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 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 55 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Roosevelt University in the United States offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed for international students to support their academic journey and make higher education more affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to campus diversity.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students applying to Roosevelt University are eligible for merit-based scholarships awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and overall potential. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are automatically considered during the admissions process.
International Student Scholarship Program: Roosevelt University provides special scholarships targeted at international students, aiming to encourage a diverse and global student body. These awards vary in amount and criteria but typically recognize outstanding academic performance and community involvement.
Departmental Scholarships: Certain colleges and departments within Roosevelt University, such as the Chicago College of Performing Arts and the Walter E. Heller College of Business, offer additional scholarships for international students enrolled in specific programs. These awards may be based on talent, portfolio, or academic excellence in the field of study.
An M.A. in Middle School Education from Roosevelt University offers a robust, field-based pathway to becoming a licensed educator for grades 5-8 in Illinois. The program's commitment to social justice and its comprehensive curriculum, including special education and ESL foundations, prepare graduates to effectively serve the diverse needs of young adolescents. Graduates emerge ready to teach their chosen content area (Language Arts, Math, Science, or Social Studies) and to foster holistic student growth.
Middle School Teacher (Grades 5-8): This is the most direct and common career path. Graduates are prepared to teach their chosen content area (Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, or Social Studies) in public, private, or charter middle schools, applying a deep understanding of adolescent development and effective pedagogical strategies.
Special Education Teacher (Middle School Level): With the option for a Special Education (LBS 1) endorsement, graduates can work with middle school students who have diverse learning needs and disabilities, providing individualized instruction and support within inclusive or specialized classroom settings.
Bilingual/ESL Teacher (Middle School Level): For those who pursue the Bilingual/ESL endorsement, careers involve teaching middle school students who are English language learners, leveraging specialized strategies to support their academic and linguistic development across content areas.
Instructional Coach/Specialist: With some classroom experience, graduates can transition into roles that support other teachers. Instructional coaches provide professional development, guidance, and mentorship to colleagues on best practices in teaching, curriculum implementation, and classroom management, particularly for middle grades.
Curriculum Developer: Graduates can work for school districts, educational publishers, or curriculum development companies, designing, evaluating, and refining educational materials and programs tailored for middle school students, ensuring alignment with academic standards and pedagogical effectiveness.
Youth Program Coordinator/Educator: Beyond traditional school settings, graduates can lead educational or recreational programs for adolescents in non-profit organizations, community centers, or after-school programs, utilizing their understanding of middle schooler development and engagement strategies.
Academic Advisor/Tutor: Graduates can provide individualized academic support and guidance to middle school students, either privately or through tutoring centers, helping them improve their understanding in specific subjects and develop effective study habits.
School Counselor (with additional licensure): While a distinct master's degree is typically required for school counseling, the strong foundation in adolescent development, social-emotional learning, and family dynamics gained in this program can be an excellent stepping stone for pursuing a subsequent M.A. in School Counseling.
Educational Consultant: Experienced graduates can offer their expertise to schools, districts, or educational organizations, advising on curriculum development, teaching methodologies, classroom management, or addressing the unique needs of middle school populations.
Educational Technology Specialist: As technology becomes increasingly integrated into classrooms, graduates with a passion for educational technology can help schools implement and utilize digital tools and platforms effectively to enhance teaching and learning for middle school students.
