Boise State University

What you'll study

This programme emphasises applied professional learning for PK–12 contexts with specialisms in specific grade levels and instructional methods (for example elementary literacy, secondary STEM, special education methods, or bilingual education). Course work typically combines theory in adult learning and professional development with hands-on practice in curriculum design, observation and coaching, programme evaluation, and leadership for instructional improvement.

• Adult learning and professional development theory: foundations of how adults learn, models of sustained professional learning, and strategies for teacher change.
• Curriculum, instruction and assessment: designing curriculum aligned to standards, formative assessment for learning, and adapting instruction for diverse learners.
• Methods for specific levels: specialised study in pedagogical approaches and classroom management suited to the chosen grade band (early childhood/elementary, middle, secondary) or content area methods (literacy, mathematics, science, special education, ELL/bilingual).
• Coaching and mentoring: instructional coaching cycles, conferencing, feedback approaches, and building coaching programmes within schools and districts.
• Program evaluation and data-informed decision making: evaluating professional development impact, using student and teacher data to plan and refine learning, and basic programme research methods.
• Practicum/capstone: mentored field experiences in local schools, designing and delivering an authentic professional development sequence, or completing a capstone project that addresses a school or district need.
• Electives and certificates: opportunities to take electives in educational technology, equity and culturally responsive practice, leadership, or to pursue graduate certificates that complement the master's specialism.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Many candidates are licensed teachers or education professionals; some specialisms may require a valid teaching certificate or relevant classroom experience. Admissions materials typically include official transcripts, a current résumé or CV, a statement of purpose describing professional goals and the intended specialism, and letters of recommendation. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to university policy. Some specialisms or funding sources may request an interview or samples of prior professional work. Standardised test scores (such as the GRE) are not universally required and are considered on a programme-by-programme basis.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared to lead professional learning and improve instruction across school settings. Typical career paths include:

• Instructional coach or mentor in district or school-based roles
• Professional development coordinator or director for schools and districts
• Curriculum specialist or instructional designer for K–12 content areas
• Specialist roles supporting English language learners, special education, or literacy initiatives
• School or district leadership positions that oversee teacher development and school improvement
• Educational consultant, trainer for non-profit organisations, or staff developer in higher education and teacher preparation programmes

Why study at Boise State University

Boise State offers a programme grounded in applied practice and close collaboration with regional schools. Students benefit from the university's established partnerships with area districts, which provide diverse practicum placements and real-world project opportunities. The College of Education emphasises research-informed instruction, equity-focused practice and preparation for immediate impact in PK–12 settings.

The programme is designed with flexibility in mind, offering coursework and field experiences that can accommodate working professionals, and draws on campus resources such as centres for teaching and learning, technology integration support, and opportunities to work on funded school improvement initiatives. Faculty combine experience as classroom teachers, coaches and researchers, providing mentorship that links scholarship to everyday school challenges.