Howard University

What you'll study

The M.Ed. at Howard University combines core coursework in educational theory and research with concentration-specific modules and supervised practical experience. Typical core topics include foundations of education, educational psychology, assessment and evaluation, research methods for educators, and issues of equity and diversity in schools. Concentrations often available include Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, Special Education, and TESOL; each concentration adds targeted subjects such as curriculum design, instructional technology, classroom management for diverse learners, behaviour intervention, school law and policy, and language acquisition.

Programme formats generally mix seminars, applied workshops and a practicum or capstone project. Students learn to design curricula, use data to inform instruction, implement inclusive practices, and conduct small-scale research or program evaluations. Many pathways require a supervised field placement in local schools or community organisations to apply theory to practice and build professional portfolios.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Typical application materials include official transcripts, a personal statement that outlines professional goals and reasons for pursuing the M.Ed., and one or more academic or professional letters of recommendation. Some concentrations may ask for evidence of teaching experience or current professional engagement in education, and applicants seeking state licensure should check additional requirements such as background checks or certification exams.

Where applicable, candidates may be required to meet the School of Education’s specific programme prerequisites (for example, prior coursework in psychology or foundations of education) and to complete any required interview or portfolio review. International applicants must provide proof of English language proficiency if their degree was not delivered in English, in line with institutional policy.

Career prospects

Graduates of the M.Ed. pursue a range of roles across K–12 schools, non-profit organisations, government and private education providers. Common career paths include classroom teacher with enhanced subject and pedagogical expertise, instructional coach, curriculum specialist, assessment coordinator, and roles in special education or ESL/TESOL instruction. Those who concentrate in educational leadership often move toward assistant principal or school administrator positions, though some leadership roles require additional certification or experience.

Other opportunities include education policy and advocacy, programme management in youth and community services, curriculum development for publishers or edtech companies, and doctoral study for careers in higher education or research. The practical placement and applied research elements of the programme are designed to strengthen employability and professional advancement.

Why study at Howard University

Howard University is a historically Black institution with a long-standing commitment to educational excellence, social justice and community engagement. Studying the M.Ed. at Howard offers access to faculty who combine scholarly research with classroom and administrative experience, strong partnerships with Washington, D.C. area schools, and practicum opportunities across diverse urban and suburban settings.

The university’s location provides proximity to federal education agencies, non-governmental organisations and cultural institutions, enriching practicum placements and networking. Students benefit from an active alumni network, interdisciplinary collaboration across campus, and a programme ethos that centres equity, culturally responsive practice and leadership in underserved communities.