Merrimack College’s new online Master of Education (M. Ed.) degree has exceeded expectations. It provides working professionals with a program that is aligned with employers’ needs and the Massachusetts teaching standards. This next-generation online learning experience helps teachers master skills that are most valued by school employers. The program launched with its first class of students in January 2016.
Exceeding Professional Standards
Merrimack’s online M.Ed. is a competency-based teacher education program that closely aligns with the Massachusetts Professional Standards for Teachers and Subject Matter Knowledge requirements. The competency-based learning model empowers students to move quickly through the material they already know by demonstrating mastery of skills and knowledge. Students then focus on learning the skills and subject matter they need most.
“Merrimack College is committed to providing a high-quality education to all students, be it on-campus or online,” said Dean Isabelle Cherney. “For busy working adult learners, our online education programs offer a unique opportunity to earn their master’s in education in a flexible, yet engaging and efficient way. The online delivery of our programs meets the needs of working adults who are teachers, and educators.”
Choose from Multiple Concentrations
Students earn their online master’s of education and gain endorsement that allows them to seek their Initial License in three concentrations: Elementary Education (Grades 1-6), Moderate Disabilities (Pre-K-8), and English as a Second Language (Pre-K-6). Merrimack works with students in the online M.Ed. helping them identify the best placements for their field-based experiences. Students can also choose complete coursework that leads to an additional license (add-on license) in Moderate Disabilities (Pre-K-8).
In addition, students can earn a M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction (a master’s degree typically not associated with licensure.) This is a highly personalized program that helps students gain exposure to current topics in special education, English language learners, and leadership. Finally, online M.Ed. courses can be taken a la carte. This is perfect for non-degree students seeking additional credits for use in Master’s Plus programs.
Suzette DiTonno, M.Ed., Ed. S., a third-grade teacher at Pentucket Lake Elementary, is enrolled in the online Master of Education program to earn a second master’s degree.
“With the online competency-based format, I have the ability to progress at my own pace through the course objectives,” DiTonno said. “As a full-time teacher and mom with two teenage boys, life is pretty busy. Without question, this program has provided the most flexibility of any program I have ever taken.”
In-Person Networking
While all courses in the program are offered online, students can choose to participate in immersion events. These events allow you to network in-person with fellow students, faculty, and professionals. Every student is also assigned a teacher education specialist who acts as a personal success coach throughout the program.
“The advantage to the competency-based approach is that earning a master’s degree while living a busy life becomes achievable,” said student Katie Zayka. “Combining self-paced education with the presence of knowledgeable professors is the future of graduate education. Students spend their time in classes across the curriculum not to learn facts but to develop skills.”
The 36-credit online program typically takes one-and-a-half to two years to complete. Courses are offered in accelerated (6- to 8-week) sessions, with six convenient enrollment points throughout the year.
Learn more about the online Master of Education program here.