Master of Science in Education (MSEd)

MISSION

The mission of the Teacher Education Department is to develop reflective educators for a global society.

VISION

The MSSU Teacher Education faculty and staff are dedicated to developing competent teachers who will incorporate into their classrooms a strong foundation of knowledge and pedagogy; a lifelong love of teaching and learning; and motivation to improve practice through reflection, self-study, and professional development. It is our goal to assure that all candidates become ethical classroom practitioners, cognizant of the need to help all students meet their full learning potential. All Teacher Education programs have been approved by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

The department of Teacher Education offers two options for a Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.): Administration and Curriculum & Instruction.

Master of Science in Education - Administration

This program aligns with the Missouri Model Leader Standards and Indicators (2018), as well as the Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (2015), which emphasize the school leader as a competent manager and instructional leader who continuously acquires new knowledge and skills and is constantly seeking to improve leadership practice to provide for high academic achievement for all students. Courses and assessments in this program encourage prospective school leaders to exercise good professional judgment and to use these standards to inform and improve their own practice. During the capstone semester, students will complete the Missouri Performance Assessment for Aspiring Building Administrator. Students will also register for and complete the Building-Level Administrator Missouri Educator Gateway Assessment prior to graduating from the program.

This M.S.Ed., Administration program follows a cohort structure with coursework of 5-7 credit hours per semester over the course of 5 sequential terms for a total of 31 credit hours. Program courses are offered in an online 8-week format with on-ground 16-week internship requirements. Requirements for thesis, internship or other capstone experience(s) will align with Portfolio (MoSPE Standards) and the Missouri Leadership Development System expectations.

For more information on the MSEd - Administration program click here.

Master of Science in Education - Curriculum & Instruction Degree

The Curriculum & Instruction program provides teachers and other professionals with an opportunity to expand their knowledge in education, improve their practice, and learn how to better plan and carry out their curriculum. Faculty members who teach in the Curriculum & Instruction program are experienced educational leaders and content specialists. Courses have been designed for professionals who want to continue their education around their busy schedules.

Classes in the Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction are offered completely on-line. It is recommended that students take six hours per semester (fall, spring, and summer) and can finish in six semesters for a total of 36 hours. Upon completion of course work, students will complete a Comprehensive Exam.

For more information on the MSEd - Curriculum & Instruction click program here.

Admission to the Master of Science in Education programs

To apply students must complete application for admission and pay application cost. (See US Citizens Application). Apply at MSSU Online Application (force.com)

To apply, students must:

Possess an earned baccalaureate degree in a related field from an institution accredited by agencies recognized by Missouri Southern State University.
Submit a writing prompt (between 500-1,000 words). Refer to the specific program link for writing prompt details.
Submit a current resume.
Submit three references.
Submit a video recording, no longer than 5 minutes, of candidate describing:

Introduction of self
Professional background
Professional goals
Reason for applying to the program

Submit a copy of current teaching certificate (Administration applicants only).

Students must also have official undergraduate transcripts and any graduate program transcripts submitted to the MSSU Admissions Office at admissions@mssu.edu or mailed to Admissions at 3950 E. Newman Road, Joplin, MO 64801. Undergraduate and graduate transcripts must show a minimum overall grade point average of 3.00. (2.75 for tentative admission).

Application materials are due by:

August 1 for the Fall Semester.

January 1 for the Spring Semester.

May 1 for the Summer Semester.

For additional information contact:
Gene Taylor Education Graduate Office • 417-625-9314
tegradprgm@mssu.edu

Dr. Susan Craig • 417-625-9764
Taylor Hall 222 • craig-s@mssu.edu

Programs

Master of Science in Education