Valparaiso University

What you'll study

The programme combines theory, research and applied practice. Core topics typically include curriculum design and assessment, contemporary instructional methods, learning theory, research methods in education and issues of equity and diversity in schools. Students choose a focus or concentration such as curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, special education, or literacy and language development.

Most pathways include a blend of coursework and field experiences. Typical modules you might encounter are:

• Advanced Classroom Assessment – formative and summative assessment design, data‑informed instruction.
• Instructional Design and Technology – integrating digital tools, blended learning strategies and universal design for learning (UDL).
• Educational Research and Statistics – fundamentals of qualitative and quantitative methods and applying evidence to practice.
• Curriculum Theory and Development – designing standards‑aligned units and backward planning.
• Special Education Foundations – inclusive practices, IEP development and behaviour supports (available in special education tracks).
• School Leadership and Policy – organisational leadership, school law, finance and community engagement (common in leadership concentrations).
• Literacy Instruction – assessment of reading and writing, intervention strategies and content area literacy.

Assessment methods commonly include lesson design portfolios, action research or capstone projects, practicum hours in partner schools and reflective professional portfolios. Delivery formats often mix evening or weekend seminars, online coursework and in‑school placements to accommodate working professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Typical admissions materials include official transcripts, a statement of purpose describing professional goals, and one or more letters of recommendation from academic or professional references. Many tracks expect candidates to have teaching experience; some specialisms or licensure routes require an active state teaching licence.

While specific grade point averages and test scores vary, competitive applicants normally present evidence of strong academic performance and professional engagement in educational settings. Additional requirements may include a current CV or résumé and, for certain leadership or licensure programmes, an interview or practicum placement clearance (background checks and health/fitness documentation may be required for school‑based experiences).

Career prospects

Graduates progress into a range of education roles. Typical career paths include classroom teacher (with advanced certification or endorsements), instructional coach, curriculum coordinator, literacy specialist, special education specialist and district curriculum or professional development roles. Those who pursue the leadership concentration often move toward roles such as assistant principal, principal or other administrative posts, although some states require additional licensure for school administration.

Other options include positions in education non‑profits, curriculum development, teacher mentoring programmes and post‑secondary education support roles. The programme’s emphasis on applied research and practicum experiences helps graduates demonstrate leadership capacity and practical skills valued by schools and districts.

Why study at Valparaiso University

Valparaiso University offers a small‑scale, community‑oriented graduate experience with close faculty mentoring and strong links to K–12 schools in the region. The university’s education programmes emphasise ethical leadership, service and reflective practice—values that align with educators focused on inclusive classrooms and community engagement.

Students benefit from a practicum‑centred curriculum, partnerships with local school districts for placement and professional networking, and flexible course delivery designed for in‑service teachers. Faculty are practising educators and researchers who bring classroom experience to course design and supervision. For educators seeking a programme that balances research, hands‑on practice and pathways to licensure or certification, Valparaiso provides a focused and supportive environment.