What Is an MSEd Degree?
A master's in education (MSEd) degree is a graduate-level degree designed to help educators further their careers and become more effective in the classroom as well as meet state certification requirements. MSEd programs are designed for educators who have already earned their initial teaching certification.
Program at a Glance
Iona University’s Master’s in Education program is designed for educators who have met the requirements for initial certification and are seeking to obtain a masters’ degree for an additional certification area. An MSEd program can typically be completed in three to four semesters.
MSED Programs
At Iona, MSEd applicants can choose from the following master’s options for expanding their education:
- MSEd Literacy (All Grades)
- MSEd Special Education (All Grades)
- MSEd Special Education and Literacy (All Grades)
All students in the special education programs1 educators may also add a bilingual extension certificate to their MSEd, which can make them eligible for even more professional opportunities.
Length of Study
Students typically complete the MSEd degree in three to five semesters one to two years, depending on the master’s program they select and whether they opt to attend classes full-time or part-time. An MSED program leading to one certification area is 30 credits, and an MSED program leading to two certification areas is 45 credits.
Flexibility and Convenience
Because the Iona MSEd program is designed for working educators, the program emphasizes flexibility and convenience for its students. Both online and hybrid learning formats are available, and scheduled classes in the evenings in order to accommodate students’ other personal and professional commitments.
Tuition and Fees
For a detailed breakdown of the cost of completing an MSEd degree from Iona, please visit the MSEd program page.
Dedicated Financial Aid Support
Financial assistance is available. In addition to standard financial aid awarded to students who apply using the FAFSA, a number of graduate scholarships and financial awards are available for incoming students. Interested applicants should explore all funding options, including employee scholarships and assistantships.
Why Go for an MSEd Degree?
An MSEd degree can provide an excellent way for an educator to further their own education and career. In addition, New York state requires that initially certified teachers earn a graduate degree within the first five years of employment as a teacher in order to obtain their professional certification. An MSEd degree can satisfy those requirements, making it a sound choice for teachers who want to continue to work in the classroom or add to their certification areas for professional growth.
Enhanced Teaching and Leadership Skills
MSEd programs allow educators to explore advanced teaching techniques and to hone their leadership skills in and out of the classroom. Master's programs in education cover best practices and new applications created by professionals who have first-hand experience as teachers, and principals, blending theoretical knowledge with practical application.
Becoming a stronger leader is an important stepping stone for taking on more responsibilities and growing in a career as an educator, whether that is in a role as a teaching leader or on the administrative side. Teachers with master’s degrees may be eligible for roles as department heads, curriculum developers, or consultants, with the opportunity to grow their salaries or even start their own businesses outside the classroom.
Specializing in a Field of Interest
Participating in an MSEd program is also an ideal time to choose a field of further specialization, such as literacy or special education. The more specialized skills a teacher is able to offer, the more in demand they are likely to be.
Apply Today to Get Started Working Toward Your MSEd
Educators who are ready to take the next step in their careers should consider earning an MSEd from Iona. Dedicated faculty and a robust community of alumni make Iona a natural choice for New York teachers who want to earn a master’s degree and maintain their teaching credentials. Request more information or apply to the program today and see just how many doors open when you invest in your career.