University of New Brunswick

What you'll study

The MEd programme at the University of New Brunswick offers a balance of coursework and research or practicum options, with opportunities to specialise in areas such as Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, Inclusive Education, Counselling, Early Childhood Education, and Educational Technology. Typical core subjects include educational research methods, curriculum theory and design, assessment and evaluation, and contemporary issues in schooling. Elective modules allow you to deepen expertise in areas such as special education, literacy development, digital learning environments, leadership and policy, and student mental health.

Students may choose a thesis route, a course-based route with a capstone project or practicum placement, or a professional-focused stream depending on their career goals. The programme emphasises applied research and collaboration with local school districts and community partners, and often involves supervised practicum experiences, school-based projects or independent study under faculty supervision.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a four-year bachelor's degree (or equivalent) with a strong academic record. Professional preparation such as a Bachelor of Education and/or a current teaching certificate is required or recommended for some specialisations and practicum routes; other streams accept applicants with relevant professional experience in education or child/youth services.

• Transcripts demonstrating a competitive undergraduate average (commonly a mid‑B average or equivalent).
• A statement of purpose outlining academic and professional objectives and preferred specialisation.
• Curriculum vitae or résumé detailing relevant experience.
• Letters of recommendation (usually two), preferably from academic referees or employers familiar with your work in education.
• For international applicants, proof of English language proficiency is required where English is not the first language.

Career prospects

Graduates of the UNB MEd go on to a wide range of roles across the education sector. Common career paths include classroom or specialist teacher roles, instructional coach, curriculum coordinator, school or district leadership positions, guidance counsellor (for those in the counselling stream), educational policy analyst, and consultant roles in assessment, curriculum development and inclusive practice. Graduates also pursue further study at the doctoral level and work in post‑secondary teaching and research, educational publishing, or instructional design and learning technology in the public and private sectors.

Why study at University of New Brunswick

UNB’s Faculty of Education combines a long regional presence with a focus on applied research and community engagement. The programme benefits from close partnerships with New Brunswick school districts and community organisations, providing practical practicum placements and opportunities for collaborative research. Small cohort sizes allow for close supervision by research‑active faculty and personalised mentorship.

The university offers flexible delivery options and supports for graduate students, including access to library and research resources, professional development workshops, and graduate funding opportunities. Studying at UNB provides a supportive environment for educators who want to influence practice in classrooms and schools or to develop leadership and research skills for broader roles in the education sector.