West Virginia University at Parkersburg

What you'll study

Students complete a shared education core (12 credits) and then concentrate on an 18-credit emphasis. Available areas include:

• Inclusive and Trauma-Responsive Teaching (autism, applied behavior analysis, collaborative and trauma-informed pedagogy)
• Integrated STEAM Teaching (science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics, inquiry-based and inclusive practices)
• Reading Specialist (multi-sensory literacy methods; track plus passing the state licensure test can lead to WV Reading Specialist certification)
• Leadership in Education Administration (preparation for principal, supervisor of general instruction, or superintendent roles)
• Community and Organizational Leadership (leadership theory and practice for broader social contexts)
• Sports Leadership and Coaching (for athletic administrators and coaches; coursework offered online)
• Visual Art Education (online coursework to advance art teaching practice)
• Instructional Design for Learning (design of aligned, engaging online and remote learning)
• Alternative Certification (online coursework for candidates holding a Substitute Teaching Permit; see program requirements)

Entry requirements

Applicants must submit official transcripts showing a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. General minimum cumulative GPA required is 2.5; the Reading Specialist, Special Education, and Leadership in Education Administration tracks require a 3.0 GPA. Multiple start terms are offered each year (January, March, May, June, August, October).

Career prospects

Depending on the chosen emphasis, graduates pursue roles such as Reading Specialist (with state exam and certification), school principals, supervisors of general instruction, superintendents, athletic administrators/coaches, instructional designers, and community or organizational leadership positions. The program also supports endorsements through the West Virginia Department of Education and can feed into further study such as West Liberty University’s Doctor of Education pathway.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Tuition for MAEd domestic students is charged at one rate per credit hour for both West Virginia residents and out-of-state students; contact the university Business Office for detailed cost information. Prospective students should also inquire with the program office about endorsement- or certificate-related costs and with the Rollie Williams International Center if visa-related questions apply.