Abilene Christian University-Undergraduate Online

Programme overview

ACU’s online Master of Education in Instruction and Learning is a 30-hour graduate degree delivered through the College of Learning and Development. The curriculum is offered fully online with three distinct concentrations—Education and Teaching; Education Leadership; and Learning with Emerging Technologies—and is designed to be completed in about 18–20 months. Tuition is stated at $600 per credit hour plus a $210 resource fee per term. The program emphasizes data-driven instructional practice combined with a faith-based perspective and includes options for advanced standing and an integrated alternative certification pathway in partnership with TXITE for Texas teacher certification.

What you'll study

• Core emphasis on increasing student learning through evidence-based practices, assessment and data-informed decision making.
• Sample courses listed include: Humans at Work: EI, Resiliency, and Vocational Formation; Applied Digital Skills for Classroom Teachers; Creating Effective Learning Environments; Assessing Today’s Learners.
• Concentration-specific focus areas: Education and Teaching (pedagogical development for teachers from non-education bachelor backgrounds or alternative certification holders); Education Leadership (school governance, finance, legislation, strategic planning, communication with parents and administrators); Learning with Emerging Technologies (instructional design theory, course design and development, assessment of technology-enhanced methods, adult motivation and self-directed learning).

Entry requirements

The program is positioned for current or prospective educators: applicants may hold a bachelor’s in education, possess a teaching certification, or have a degree in another field. Students who are currently enrolled in or have completed a Teacher Certification program within the last five years may be eligible for Advanced Standing of up to 6 credit hours toward the M.Ed. The site also references an Alternative Certification option delivered with TXITE that can be completed concurrently with the M.Ed.; contact admissions for specific admissions criteria and eligibility details.

Career prospects

The program lists typical roles graduates pursue, including master teacher, technology coordinator, instructional design specialist, curriculum development professional, and professional development trainer. The Education Leadership concentration prepares students for administrative and leadership responsibilities such as overseeing instructors, creating and executing curriculum standards, and engaging with district stakeholders.

Scholarships & funding angle

ACU advertises a Locked-In Tuition guarantee that holds the same tuition rate for the duration of the graduate degree. Advanced Standing can reduce program cost by awarding up to 6 credit hours (noted as a $3,600 savings in the material). The text also notes that other financial aid may apply and recommends speaking with an admissions advisor for details.