Benedictine University

What you'll study

This programme combines advanced study of subject-specific teaching methods with coursework in professional development, leadership and educational research. Study pathways focus on specific levels and methods—for example early childhood, elementary, secondary subject methods, or special educational needs—allowing you to tailor the degree to your existing certification and career goals.

• Advanced Methods for Specific Levels: pedagogy and curriculum design for early years, primary or secondary classrooms; differentiation and scaffolding across age ranges.
• Subject-specific Instructional Strategies: evidence-based approaches for English/language arts, mathematics, sciences, social studies, or other subject areas depending on pathway.
• Adult Learning and Professional Development: design, delivery and evaluation of sustained professional learning for teachers and school teams; coaching models and mentoring.
• Curriculum, Assessment and Data Use: formative and summative assessment practices, data-informed instruction, and aligning curriculum to standards and diverse learners.
• Educational Leadership and Change: leading professional learning communities, implementing school improvement initiatives and managing change in educational settings.
• Research Methods and Capstone/Practicum: applied action research or a practicum project that addresses a practical improvement in teaching, learning or professional development practice.

Courses are typically offered in flexible formats — on-campus, blended or online — and the programme emphasises practical application through school-based projects and collaborations with practising educators.

Entry requirements

• A recognised bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Professional experience in education is normally required; applicants typically hold or are eligible for a teaching certificate or licence for certain specialisms.
• A satisfactory undergraduate grade profile; specific GPA expectations may vary by admission pathway.
• A personal statement or statement of purpose outlining professional goals and reasons for pursuing the programme.
• References from professional or academic referees familiar with the applicant’s work in educational settings.
• A current résumé or CV. Some applicants may be invited to an interview or to submit a sample of professional work or a teaching portfolio.

There are often alternative admission routes for experienced educators without conventional certification; discuss individual circumstances with the admissions team.

Career prospects

Graduates gain specialised skills valued in schools, districts and educational organisations. Typical career paths include:

• Instructional coach or teacher coach supporting classroom teachers to improve practice.
• Professional development coordinator or curriculum specialist designing and delivering in-service learning.
• Department head, curriculum leader or subject coordinator at the school level.
• Programme lead for early years, special educational needs or subject-specific initiatives.
• Education consultant or trainer for non-governmental organisations, publishers and education technology providers.
• Further study and research roles, or progression into school leadership positions.

Why study at Benedictine University

• Practitioner-focused learning: coursework is taught by faculty with classroom and leadership experience and emphasises immediately applicable strategies for teaching and professional learning.
• Flexible delivery: a mix of delivery modes supports in-service teachers, including evening, hybrid and online options to fit working schedules.
• Applied capstone and school partnerships: opportunities to complete practicum projects and collaborative initiatives with local schools provide hands-on experience and evidence for professional advancement.
• Supportive community: small cohort sizes foster mentorship, networking with peers and direct faculty support throughout the programme and beyond.
• Values-driven approach: Benedictine’s educational ethos emphasises reflective practice, ethical leadership and service to learning communities.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact Benedictine University’s admissions or the College of Education for guidance on specialisms, delivery options and how the programme can be tailored to individual professional goals.