Auburn University at Montgomery

What you'll study

This programme combines advanced study in pedagogy for a specific developmental level or subject area with coursework on professional development, curriculum design and educational research. Core themes include evidence-based instructional strategies, assessment for learning, differentiated instruction, classroom management, and the design and facilitation of professional learning for adult learners.

• Foundations of Teacher Leadership: theory and practice of teacher leadership, mentoring and coaching models.
• Specific Levels and Methods coursework: subject- or level-focused pedagogy (for example, early childhood, elementary literacy, secondary content methods) emphasising content-specific instructional design and assessment.
• Curriculum Design and Assessment: standards-aligned curriculum development, formative and summative assessment, data-informed decision making.
• Instructional Technology and Digital Pedagogy: use of educational technology to support differentiated instruction and professional learning communities.
• Research Methods or Action Research: introduction to educational research methods and a practicum or capstone project that applies research to classroom or school improvement.
• Professional Development Seminar: planning, facilitating and evaluating professional development for teachers and school staff.

Program delivery typically blends face-to-face and online modules, and includes a practicum, internship or capstone project in which candidates design and implement a sustained professional development initiative or conduct classroom-based action research.

Entry requirements

• A recognised bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
• Evidence of professional experience or current teaching licence/certification is normally required for many concentrations; applicants without certification may be considered for non-licensure routes.
• Official academic transcripts demonstrating satisfactory undergraduate performance; specific GPA expectations are set by the university and the College of Education.
• A personal statement or statement of purpose outlining professional goals, teaching experience and why you are applying to this specific programme.
• Two or more professional references, typically from supervisors or academic instructors who can speak to your potential for graduate study and leadership in education.
• Some applicants may be asked to provide a current résumé/CV and undergo a background check if the programme includes practicum placements in local schools.

International applicants must meet the university's graduate admission standards for English proficiency and academic credential evaluation.

Career prospects

Graduates emerge with enhanced pedagogical expertise and leadership skills suited to a range of school and district roles. Typical career pathways include:

• Instructional coach or mentor teacher, leading classroom coaching cycles and teacher development.
• Curriculum specialist or coordinator, designing and implementing standards-based curriculum across grade levels or subjects.
• Professional development coordinator, planning and delivering staff development at school or district level.
• Lead teacher roles, department chair or grade-level leader with responsibility for teacher support and assessment alignment.
• Educational consultant, content developer or trainer for publisher, nonprofit or government education programmes.
• Further study and pathways into school administration, doctoral research, or higher education teaching (may require additional certification or credentials depending on local licensing rules).

Why study at Auburn University at Montgomery

• Practitioner-focused faculty: the College of Education includes faculty with classroom experience and active engagement in school improvement and professional learning.
• Small cohorts and personalised support: AUM’s cohort sizes facilitate close mentoring, collaborative practicum supervision and tailored guidance through the capstone project.
• Flexible delivery: course scheduling and blended online options accommodate working educators balancing employment and graduate study.
• Partnerships with local schools: established relationships with area districts provide placement opportunities and direct engagement with school leaders and teachers.
• Focus on applied outcomes: the programme emphasises actionable skills—curriculum design, coaching, assessment literacy and facilitation—that translate directly into improved classroom practice and school-wide professional development.

Prospective students are encouraged to contact the College of Education at Auburn University at Montgomery for programme-specific guidance, course scheduling options and information on licensure advisement if seeking state certification.