M.A. in Middle Level Education

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 80

1. Academic Qualifications:

• Applicants should have completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
• A minimum overall percentage of 83-86 or its equivalent is typically required for admission.

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: An overall score of at least 6.5 with no individual band score below 6.0.
• TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 79 is often required.

3.  Score reporting required.

Mississippi State University (MSU) recognizes the importance of providing financial assistance to international students to help them pursue their higher education goals. The university offers a variety of scholarships to support the academic achievements and contributions of international students. These scholarships are designed to recognize excellence, diversity, and leadership. 

1. Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international students based on their academic merit. This scholarship recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance in their previous studies. The scholarship amount varies and is renewable based on maintaining a specified GPA.

2. International Student Scholarships: MSU offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships consider factors such as academic achievement, leadership potential, and contributions to the campus community. Award amounts and eligibility criteria may vary.

3. Intensive English Institute (IEI) Scholarships: MSU's IEI offers scholarships to international students who enroll in English language programs. These scholarships help students improve their English language skills before pursuing their academic studies at the university.

4. Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at MSU offer scholarships to international students who are pursuing specific fields of study. These scholarships are often based on academic performance, research interests, and involvement in departmental activities.

5. Cultural Exchange Scholarships: MSU encourages cultural exchange by offering scholarships to international students from specific countries or regions. These scholarships promote diversity and foster a global learning environment on campus.

6. Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students may have the opportunity to work as research or teaching assistants, which can come with a stipend, tuition waiver, and valuable work experience.

7. External Scholarships: MSU provides information and guidance to international students seeking external scholarships, grants, or funding opportunities offered by government agencies, foundations, and organizations.

Application Process: The application process for scholarships at MSU may vary depending on the scholarship program. Generally, students need to complete their application for admission to the university before they can be considered for scholarships. Some scholarships may require additional essays, letters of recommendation, or a statement of purpose.

Deadlines: Scholarship application deadlines vary and are often aligned with the university's admission application deadlines.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Middle Level Education program at Mississippi State University (MSU) equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and expertise needed to thrive in the dynamic field of education, particularly focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities of teaching middle school students.  

1. Middle School Teacher: Graduates are prepared to become middle school teachers in public or private schools. They typically teach students in grades 6 to 8, covering subjects like mathematics, science, language arts, social studies, and more.

2. Subject Specialist: Some graduates may choose to specialize in a particular subject area, such as mathematics, science, or English language arts, and become subject specialists within middle schools. These specialists often collaborate with other teachers to enhance subject-specific instruction.

3. Curriculum Developer: With their advanced understanding of pedagogy, graduates can work as curriculum developers. They create educational materials, lesson plans, and assessments that align with state and national standards.

4. Educational Coordinator: Educational coordinators at the middle school level help oversee curriculum development, teacher training, and student assessment. They play a vital role in shaping educational programs within their schools.

5. Instructional Coach: Instructional coaches work with teachers to improve their teaching techniques, classroom management skills, and instructional strategies. They provide ongoing support and professional development.

6. Department Chair: Experienced graduates may aspire to become department chairs, leading teams of teachers in specific subject areas within middle schools.

7. Middle School Administrator: Graduates interested in school leadership can pursue roles as middle school principals or assistant principals. They oversee school operations, staff, and student discipline.

8. Special Education Teacher: Some graduates may choose to specialize in special education and work with middle school students who have disabilities, providing tailored instruction and support.

9. Education Consultant: Education consultants offer their expertise to schools and educational organizations. They may provide guidance on curriculum development, teacher training, and educational policy.

10. Online Educator: As online and blended learning options grow, graduates may find opportunities to teach middle school students in virtual or hybrid settings.

11. Education Researcher: Graduates interested in educational research can contribute to the field by conducting studies on teaching and learning strategies, curriculum development, and student outcomes.

12. Nonprofit Education Organizations: Some graduates may work for nonprofit organizations that focus on improving education. They may be involved in program development, advocacy, or outreach.

13. Textbook Author: With their deep knowledge of educational content, graduates can become textbook authors, contributing to the creation of instructional materials used in middle schools.

14. Professional Development Specialist: Professional development specialists design and deliver training programs for teachers and educational staff, helping them stay updated on best practices.

15. Community College Instructor: Graduates who wish to teach at a higher education level may find positions as instructors at community colleges, teaching education courses.

16. Ph.D. Pursuits: For those interested in advanced research and academic careers, the M.A. can serve as a stepping stone to a Ph.D. in education or related fields.