Source: Pixabay user PublicDomainPictures.
There are numerous benefits to getting your Master’s in Education. Not only will your pedagogical knowledge expand, but you will also broaden your network of fellow teachers, become eligible for leadership roles, and receive a nice pay increase. As you’re considering applying to online M Ed programs or MAT programs, one of the first questions you’ll probably have is: What does it take to get in? If you’ve been teaching for a while, going back to school might seem kind of daunting. Do you have to take the GRE? Do you have to have so many continuing education hours under your belt?
Consider this your guide to online M.Ed./MAT program admissions. Hopefully, this guide answers all your questions–or at least the ones pertaining to getting in. So here’s what it takes:
A Bachelor’s Degree
This isn’t a surprise. But yes, Master’s programs require a Bachelor’s degree.
Interestingly, your bachelor’s does not have to be in education. However, if your undergraduate experience did not lead to a teaching license, you should be aware that a Master’s in Education does not a teaching license make. Not all M.Ed. programs end with a teaching license, but some do have the option of adding a semester worth of student teaching/internship that will allow you to apply for licensure.
GPA Requirements
Most online M.Ed. programs require a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (e.g., UNE or Liberty University). However, there are also programs with lower requirements. Concordia University, for example, would prefer a 2.8, but may conditionally accept students with GPAs lower than a 2.8.
Test Scores
Online M.Ed. programs don’t require a GRE score. Having said that, Walden University requires “applicable test scores”. Request more information on their website. Test scores that may be required will vary from state to state, and whether or not your program ends in additional licensure.
Official Transcripts
All online M.Ed. programs will require official transcripts from post-secondary institutions you’ve attended. Most programs require your official transcripts as a part of your application. Liberty University, on the other hand, will allow unofficial transcripts to be used for application purposes, but then require official transcripts before you can register.
Current Resume/CV & Letter of Intent
A current resume will be required as part of your application for most online M.Ed. programs.
In addition, you may also be asked to provide a letter of intent (i.e., a personal statement with specific prompts) or a professional goal statement (what you intend to do with your degree).
Classroom Access
Because you are working toward a Master’s in Education, chances are you’re going to need access to a classroom. Talk to someone in admissions to determine what your class/work schedule might look like and whether or not you will be able to work full-time while completing your program.
Depending on the specialization that you choose, you may be required to complete internship hours (e.g., Administration, School Counseling, etc.). Take this into consideration when deciding whether an M.Ed. is right for you. In some cases, you may need to talk to your administration–make sure you have their support before you start.
The admission process for applying to an online M.Ed. program doesn’t seem to be too complicated. In fact, it almost sounds like your typical, education job application. Before you apply, make sure you talk to someone in admissions about what their program would look like for you. Find the program that fits into your life.
