Purpose of the Degree

Teachers who wish to improve their general understanding of curriculum theory and current practices and to increase their professionalism and competency in a variety of current educational issues. Some candidates in this constituency might also utilize this degree in seeking their National Board licensure. Within this master’s degree, students focus on areas of learning that include:

• Practices to enhance student achievement
• Performance and field-based learning activities integrating theory and practice
• Enrichment of teaching knowledge and skills regarding instruction and curriculum
• Assist in preparation for the National Board Certification process.

Admission Requirements

To be considered for the MSE Degree-Educational Theory and Practice, each candidate must have, in addition to the admission requirements of Graduate Admissions, the following:

• Hold a current teaching license
• Have a 2.75 GPA on undergraduate work or 3.0 in last 60 hours
• No felony record

Additional Requirements

• Students who adhere to the schedule should be able to complete the program in 24 months. If a candidate finds it necessary to deviate from the schedule, he/she will be able to re-enter the sequence at any time. A student has six years to complete the degree.
• A-State will be using Blackboard as the web delivery platform. This platform allows synchronous and asynchronous interactions, streaming video and electronic discussion boards. Students will also interact via e-mail, telephone, and fax.
• A high-speed internet connection (Ethernet, cable, DSL, public wireless hotspot, satellite, etc) will be necessary. Dial-up will not work. Computers must have specific minimum requirements. For example, they must have a Windows XP or later operating system; any processor of 1.2GHZ or faster; minimum RAM of 512MB for XP or 1GB for Vista; minimum of 20GB available free disk space; minimum display resolution of 1024x768.
• The capstone experience, which serves as the comprehensive examination for the degree, focuses on developing descriptive, analytical, and reflective writing as preparatory for the National Board portfolio.

Core Course and Concentrations

The MSE in Educational Theory and Practice degree program consists of a core curriculum of 12 graduate credit hours, as shown in the below. In addition to the core curriculum, students select a concentration of 18 graduate credit hours to meet their interests or career needs.