Curriculum/Instruction Supervision, M.Ed.

Admission Requirements

Applicants seeking admission to the (M.Ed.) graduate program are required to submit the following to the Graduate School:

1. An application for graduate admission
2. Official copies of transcripts of all college work (undergraduate and graduate). An average grade of “B” in the undergraduate major is recommended and proof of a bachelor‘s degree from an accredited college or university in this country or its equivalent in a foreign institution is required.
3. Official scores on the Miller Analogies Test or the Graduate Record Exam
4. Three recommendations from individuals who can attest to the qualifications of the applicant for admission to this program
5. A 2-3 page typed letter of application which includes a description of the applicant‘s professional goals, educational interests in pursuing graduate study, and philosophy of teaching.

Admissions decisions are based upon several factors and where other indicators of success warrant, individuals who fall below the established criteria in one of the areas may be considered for admission.

In addition to the general requirements, applicants must hold, or be qualified to hold North Carolina class “A” teacher licensure in the area of curricular emphasis.

Under exceptional circumstances, individuals who do not hold the specified teaching credential may be admitted. Such exceptions may be made in cases of otherwise qualified applicants who are engaged in relevant professional roles not requiring teacher certification and who may profit professionally from the type of advanced study offered at this institution. Examples of applicants for whom exceptions are appropriate include community college administrators and teachers. In such instances, the programs may be modified appropriately. However, upon completion of the graduate program individuals admitted under such exceptions are not qualified for the institution‘s recommendation for North Carolina Board of Education instructional or administrative licensure.

Students who seek professional improvement or licensure renewal but do not intend to pursue a degree may register for graduate courses through procedures established for non–degree students. Those procedures are described in an earlier section of this catalogue. (NOTE: Licensure requirements change, and requirements must be adjusted to accommodate new mandated competencies and guidelines. Students should check with their advisors or the dean‘s office to keep informed of changes.)
 

Degree Requirements Curriculum Instruction Supervision Specialization

The program leading to the Master of Education degree (M.Ed.) in curriculum/instruction supervision provides advanced professional training for individuals holding, or qualified to hold, North Carolina Class “A” teacher licensure in an academic area and three years of teaching experience. The program is designed to provide advanced study to prepare graduates to be effective school and district level curriculum and instructional leaders, and is appropriate for classroom teachers, building administrators, teacher educators, and other personnel who play a supervisory role in the professional development of others.

Based upon the view of the professional as a decision-maker and reflective practitioner, the program addresses the needs for conceptual and procedural bases for decision-making and specific alternatives within the student‘s anticipated area of professional practice. The 36-semester hour program consists of a set of core courses that are common with the school administration program, courses specific to a curriculum specialization area, and courses within the supervision program track. The PRAXIS ll exam in Educational Leadership: Administration and Supervision #10411 is required for licensure.
 

Degree Requirements Higher Education Specialization

The Master of Education (M.Ed.) program includes a specialization in Higher Education Leadership. This specialization is designed for people who wish to enter administrative and/or academic support roles in colleges and universities. It provides social, historical, philosophical, developmental, and international perspectives of postsecondary education. The program supports the Watson School of Education Conceptual Framework of developing highly competent professionals to serve in educational leadership roles.

The specialization in Higher Education Leadership requires a minimum of 36 credit hours including a practicum and electives. The practicum provides student interaction working in a university or community college administrative or student support office or program with the opportunity to connect theory to practice. Elective courses are selected from course offerings in Educational Leadership and other disciplines.