Fairleigh Dickinson University

What you'll study

The curriculum combines core education theory with applied modules to support professional practice. Core topics typically include educational psychology, curriculum design, assessment and evaluation, research methods in education, and classroom management. Students choose specialisms or elective pathways such as Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, Special Education, or TESOL. Practical components vary by pathway and may include classroom practicum or a supervised internship, a capstone project or a research thesis.

• Core modules: Educational Psychology; Curriculum Development; Assessment and Measurement; Research Methods in Education.
• Specialist modules (examples): Inclusive and Special Education Practices; Instructional Technology and Digital Learning; Leadership and School Administration; Second Language Acquisition and TESOL Methodology.
• Capstone/practicum: Applied capstone project or supervised practicum in a school or educational setting, designed to demonstrate professional competence in the chosen pathway.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised bachelor's degree. Typical supporting documents include official transcripts, a personal statement outlining professional goals and reasons for undertaking the degree, and one or more academic or professional references. Candidates with relevant professional teaching experience may be considered for certain pathways, and some specialisms or certification routes require existing teaching certification or additional state-specific paperwork.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or prior study in English where required. Specific admission requirements and any prerequisite coursework depend on the chosen specialism and whether the student seeks state teacher certification.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of education roles in schools, colleges, universities, and the wider education sector. Common career paths include classroom teacher (including specialist roles), instructional coordinator or curriculum developer, educational technology specialist, TESOL/ESL instructor, special education teacher, and school leadership positions such as assistant principal or curriculum leader where local certification permits.

Other opportunities exist in adult education, educational policy, non-profit and community education organisations, corporate training and educational publishing. The programme’s practicum and capstone elements are intended to build a professional portfolio employers recognise.

Why study at Fairleigh Dickinson University

Fairleigh Dickinson University offers small class sizes and a practitioner-focused approach that emphasises applied learning and classroom-ready skills. Students benefit from faculty who combine academic research with hands-on school experience and from partnerships with local school districts that provide practicum and internship opportunities.

The university provides flexible delivery formats, including part-time and online options, allowing working educators to balance study with professional commitments. Additionally, the institution’s international outlook and multiple campus locations provide opportunities to engage with diverse learner populations and broaden professional networks.