What will I study?
The Master of Education in Teaching is designed to meet the needs of working educators. This 100% online accelerated program is taught by the same faculty who teach on campus and provides opportunities for endorsements, career advancement and educational enrichment.
Tailor your degree by choosing one of these five high-demand specializations and be equipped with the knowledge and professional skill sets you need to stand out as a leader in the classroom.
M.Ed. in Teaching – English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
You will explore research-based practices designed to meet the needs of a culturally
and linguistically diverse population which is a key element in the professional preparation
of all educators. This specialization also meets course requirements for the South
Carolina ESOL add-on endorsement.
M.Ed. in Teaching – Literacy and Reading
In this program, you will explore research-based practices and inquiry-learning designed
to meet the literacy needs of today's diverse learners in grades preK-12. This specialization
also meets course requirements for the South Carolina Read to Succeed Literacy Teacher
or Literacy Requirement Endorsement.
M.Ed. in Teaching – Multicultural Contexts in Education
The Multicultural Context in Education specialization promotes and encourages degree
participants to learn and understand children and adolescents who come from varied
racial, ethnic, linguistic and cultural backgrounds and experiences. You will be prepared
to work with children, adolescents, families, and the school community to implement
culturally relevant curriculum, instructional strategies, and thriving classroom contexts
that reflect the students and communities you will serve.
M.Ed. in Teaching – Project Based Learning
In this program, you will examine teaching methodology designed to enable preK-12
students to gain knowledge and skills while working for extended periods of time to
investigate and respond to an authentic, engaging and complex question, problem, or
challenge. This specialization also meets course requirements for the South Carolina
Project Based Learning endorsement.
M.Ed. in Teaching - STEAM Education
A STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics) Education approach
to teaching is one that helps teachers engage their students in real-world application
of knowledge toward developing 21st century skills and transdisciplinary understandings.
In specific, a STEAM approach is one that has been aligned with promoting an inclusive
learning environment which promotes persistence and resilience in STEM subjects for
all learners. This specialization also meets current course requirements for the South
Carolina STEAM Education endorsement and prepares K-12 educators to plan and implement
integrated curriculum in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics
(STEAM). (New Specialization Beginning Fall 2024)
What kinds of research will I be able to do?
You will be able to design and create your own action research topic based on your area of specialization as part of your graduate-level training in qualitative and quantitative research design, implementation, and data analysis. The action research project is initiated at the midpoint of the program and completed as part of the required comprehensive examination at the end of the program.
Special Tuition Rates
South Carolina certified teachers pay a reduced tuition rate
Out-of-state students admitted to this program pay regular South Carolina resident
tuition rate:
| Tuition Rates | South Carolina Certified Teachers | All Other Applicants |
|---|---|---|
| Per Credit Hour | $515* | $572.25 |
| Estimated Total Program Tuition including Fees | $17,146* | $18,863.50 |
*This rate applies for SC resident certified teachers completing fewer than 12 hours
per semester. These fees and rates are subject to change and are effective for the 2024-2025 Academic
Year. See Specially Priced Online Degree Programs information on the fee schedule and the Graduate One Rate estimated cost to attend based on averages across all university programs.
Financial Aid
Most students in this program receive assistance through loans and other forms of aid. Complete your FAFSA to be considered for these aid programs.
Coursework and Applications
Core Courses (15 semester hours)
The core courses help you further develop a foundation in areas important to professional
educators. These courses provide insight into educational leadership, multiculturalism,
and action research.
Specialization Courses (15 semester hours)
These courses will deepen your knowledge and understanding of the specialization area
you choose. Each specialization area is designed to help you make more informed instructional
decisions that will benefit all students in preK-12 classrooms.
For more information about curriculum or program requirements, please visit the academic bulletin.
There are five admission points into the Master of Education in Teaching program: Fall I, Fall II, Spring I, Spring II, and Summer. Every required document in support of the application must be on file by the selected admission point deadline date.
Required Documents:
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
- Two letters of recommendation that focus on your potential for success in a graduate program
- Current resume or vita (to be successful you should be working in a formal or informal education setting)
- Letter of Intent to pursue graduate study that addresses the dispositions (stewardship, intellectual spirit, integrity, and justice) of the University of South Carolina's College of Education Conceptual Framework in the context of the applicant's teaching
- Three years of experience in an education setting OR 3.0 GPA or higher in last degree earned
- For international students: Official TOEFL/IELTS scores that meet minimum requirements as determined by the Graduate School