Benedictine University

What you'll study

The Master of Education at Benedictine University offers a flexible curriculum that emphasises research-informed practice, curriculum and instruction, and leadership in P–12 settings. Students choose from specialisations or concentrations such as Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), Special Education, or an initial licensure pathway (Master of Arts in Teaching for career changers).

Core topics typically include:

• Foundations of Education: historical, philosophical and legal perspectives that shape schools and policy.
• Research Methods and Educational Assessment: design and interpretation of quantitative and qualitative studies, formative and summative assessment strategies.
• Curriculum Design and Instructional Strategies: backward design, differentiated instruction, universal design for learning and standards-based planning.
• Classroom Management and Culture: behaviour management, restorative practices, cultural responsiveness and family/community engagement.
• Instructional Technology: effective integration of digital tools for teaching, learning analytics and blended/hybrid course design.
• Specialist Coursework: for example, special education students study inclusive practices and individualized education programmes (IEPs); TESOL students study language acquisition and assessment; leadership students study school law, finance and supervised internship.

Programme structure varies by pathway: licensure or MAT pathways include practicum and supervised student teaching; the MEd typically culminates in a capstone project or action research thesis demonstrating applied improvement in an educational setting. Delivery options include on-campus, online and hybrid courses to accommodate working professionals.

Entry requirements

Admission to Benedictine University's Master's in Education normally requires a recognised bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and submission of academic transcripts. Additional typical requirements include a personal statement or statement of purpose describing professional goals, a current résumé, and letters of recommendation.

Specific tracks may have additional criteria:

• Licensure or MAT pathways usually require a background check and successful completion of a supervised practicum; some applicants may need prerequisite coursework in pedagogy or content-area methods.
• Leadership concentrations may expect teaching experience in P–12 schools and supervisory references.
• International applicants should provide evidence of English proficiency according to the university's admissions policy.

Applicants with non-traditional backgrounds or career changers are considered; an interview or portfolio may be requested as part of the review process.

Career prospects

Graduates from Benedictine University's Master's in Education pursue a range of careers in K–12 and beyond. Common roles include classroom teacher (including entry to licensure for career changers), special education teacher, ESL/TESOL instructor, and subject-area specialist.

• Instructional coach or curriculum coordinator: supporting teacher development, aligning curriculum to standards and leading professional learning.
• Educational leader or administrator: assistant principal, principal or district-level roles, with many graduates moving into leadership after additional certification where required.
• Specialist roles: special education coordinator, literacy specialist, assessment coordinator or ESOL coordinator.
• Non-school settings: educational consultant, corporate trainer, curriculum developer or roles in educational non-profits and higher education.

The programme's emphasis on practicum, applied research and partnerships with local school districts supports graduates in securing positions and advancing within the profession.

Why study at Benedictine University

Benedictine University offers a supportive environment for educators with small class sizes, faculty who have P–12 experience, and a focus on reflective practice rooted in the university's Benedictine values. The institution provides flexible delivery options—on-campus, online and hybrid—so working professionals can balance study with employment.

The university maintains partnerships with local schools for practicum placements and student teaching, and its programmes are structured to align with regional licensure requirements where applicable. Students benefit from career services, networking opportunities within area districts, and a cohort-based model in many concentrations that fosters peer collaboration and sustained professional growth.

Overall, Benedictine's Master's in Education is designed to deepen classroom expertise, build leadership capacity and prepare graduates for specialised roles in education while accommodating the schedules of practising educators.