Master of Arts in Elementary Education

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Elementary Education is designed for individuals seeking to advance their knowledge and skills in teaching elementary-aged students (grades P-5) in a fully online format. The program focuses on current best practices in pedagogy, child development, curriculum design, assessment strategies, and educational technology, all within the context of a Christian worldview. This degree is ideal for licensed teachers seeking professional development, as well as those wanting to pursue a career in teaching with a robust foundation in educational theory and practice.

Program Mission

To equip educators with the advanced knowledge, pedagogical skills, and leadership abilities needed to effectively teach and support elementary school students in diverse, 21st-century classrooms, all while integrating Christian values and ethical principles.

Program Objectives

By the end of the program, graduates will be able to:

Apply advanced teaching strategies that support diverse learners in elementary education.
Design and implement curriculum that is aligned with state and national standards and supports the development of the whole child.
Utilize educational technologies to enhance learning outcomes.
Lead in creating inclusive classrooms that embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Understand and apply best practices in classroom management and assessment.
Reflect critically on educational research and integrate evidence-based practices into their teaching.
Demonstrate Christian ethical leadership in educational settings.

Program Format

Delivery Mode: 100% online, asynchronous with optional synchronous sessions.
Program Duration: Typically 1 ½ to 2 years.
Credit Hours: 36 credit hours
Start Dates: Multiple terms per year (e.g., Fall, Spring, Summer).
Capstone Project or Thesis: Yes (Capstone project designed for practical application of learning in the classroom).

Program Breakdown

Professional Development Courses:
- ED 510 Advanced Instructional and Assessment Planning: Focuses on the
  development of instructional strategies, assessment methods, and curriculum
  planning tailored to elementary classrooms.
- ED 520 Curriculum and Pedagogy in Multicultural Education: Covers best
  practices for teaching in diverse classrooms and developing inclusive curricula
  that meet the needs of all students.
- ED 540 Current Issues in Elementary Education: Analyzes the current challenges
  and trends in elementary education, including policy changes, technology
  integration, and classroom management strategies.
- ED/PY 530 Educational Psychology: Introduces the psychological principles that
  influence learning, behavior, and emotional development in elementary-aged
  children.
Research Courses:
- ED 550 Methods of Educational Research: An introduction to qualitative and
  quantitative research methods, designed to equip students with the skills
  necessary for evaluating educational practices and conducting classroom-based
  research.
Content-Specific Methods Courses:
- ED 502 Literacy Development in Elementary Education: Focuses on the
  development of literacy skills in elementary students, including reading, writing,
  and phonics instruction.
- ED 501 Advanced Language Arts Methods: Explores advanced strategies for
  teaching reading, writing, and language skills at the elementary level.
- ED 503 Advanced Math Methods for Elementary Teachers: Provides strategies for
  teaching mathematics to elementary students, emphasizing problem-solving,
  conceptual understanding, and critical thinking.
- ED 504 Advanced Science Methods for Elementary Teachers: Focuses on best
  practices for teaching science in elementary classrooms, with an emphasis on
  inquiry-based learning and hands-on activities.
- ED 505 Advanced Social Studies Methods for Elementary Teachers: Develops
  methods for teaching social studies, integrating history, geography, economics,
  and civics in a way that is meaningful for young learners.
Christian Worldview:
- CS 534 Doctrine of Revelation: Explores the integration of Christian theology
  into educational practice, particularly focusing on how faith can inform teaching
  practices and student engagement.
- MI 601 Cross-Cultural Ministry Practicum (or equivalent): Provides practical
  experience in diverse educational settings, helping students understand how to
  address the needs of children from various cultural and socio-economic
  backgrounds. This could involve a field experience or service project.

Capstone Project or Thesis Requirement:

Students will be required to complete either a Capstone Project or a Research Thesis (determined by the student’s area of interest and professional goals).

Capstone Project: A practical project where students design and implement a comprehensive curriculum or teaching strategy that aligns with the principles and skills learned throughout the program.
Research Thesis: A research-based thesis that contributes original knowledge to the field of elementary education, focusing on a particular educational issue, strategy, or practice.

Graduation Requirements:

Minimum GPA: Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 and earn no grade lower than a “B” (3.0) in any course.
Completion of 36 Credit Hours: Depending on the number of electives taken and the choice between a thesis or capstone project, students must complete the required credit hours.
Capstone or Thesis: Completion of either a Capstone Project or Research Thesis.
Timeframe for Completion: All degree requirements should be completed within 5 years of starting the program.

Transfer Requirements:

Maximum Transfer Credit: A maximum of 8 graduate credit hours may be transferred from other accredited institutions, provided the courses align with the objectives of the Master of Arts in Elementary Education program and were completed with a grade of “B” or higher.
Transfer Review: All transfer credits will be evaluated by the program faculty to ensure compatibility with the curriculum requirements.

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