Master of Arts in Education

Overview

You’ll find our fully accredited Master of Arts in Education degree program very affordably priced at the University of Saint Mary, one of the oldest, best, and most respected teaching institutions in the region.

With lower tuition costs, smaller class sizes, flexible course designs, and a helpful advisory staff that wants you to succeed, there’s no better place to go for your Master of Arts in Education.

Your degree can lead to career advancement and higher pay while also providing very practical information and advice with immediate classroom application. You’ll also place yourself among the highest in-demand teachers by staying ahead of the curve on ever-changing teaching trends.

At USM, you’ll gain a practical, quality, values-driven education from instructors who blend academic knowledge with real-world experience.

Your USM advisor will work diligently with you to build a schedule that fits your life, helps you earn your master’s degree in education as quickly and conveniently as possible.

Who will benefit?

The University of Saint Mary evening Master of Arts in Education program is conveniently located at our Overland Park Campus near 115th and Pflumm. You may also take classes at our main campus in Leavenworth and at Sacred Heart of Jesus in Shawnee.

Many types of students can benefit:

• Teachers in public and private schools in grades K-12
• Non teachers working in development or leadership roles at colleges or universities
• Military personnel interested in increasing their educational expertise
• Home-school teachers
• Child care managers and administrators
• Parents who seek a greater understanding of educational practices

Family-Friendly Scheduling

USM’s education graduate program is flexible.

We offer:

• Accelerated courses: most meet once a week, Monday through Thursday, 5-8:50 p.m.
• Terms begin six times per year (August, October, January, February, May, and June)
• You may start at any term

Please note that this is not a licensure program. Learning Outcomes and Assessment Results

The University of Saint Mary is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). This accreditation covers initial teacher preparation programs and advanced educator preparation programs. NCATE is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation to accredit programs for the preparation of teachers and other professional school personnel.

We recommend that you submit your application materials at least 3 weeks prior to the start of the term.

Apply Now! Request More Information

Curriculum

The USM education graduate program is an academically challenging path. But it’s also a rewarding one.

Designed with current and future educators in mind, the USM Master of Arts in Education program will let you:

• Develop leadership skills to shape school improvement reform or shape change in your professional setting
• Engage in collaborative study, research, and inquiry-based learning
• Pursue professional renewal and growth, enhancing your career
• Reflect on ethical and moral implications related to teaching
• Research current educational issues and build an educational knowledge base
• Understand contemporary issues in education and how they relate to instructional methods, leadership, program development, and performance assessment
• Use the latest techniques to monitor and enhance student learning while developing their instructional practices

See USM’s Learning Outcome Assessment and read what students had to say about our program.

Please note: the Master of Arts in Education program does not lead to a teaching license or an administrative license in Kansas.

The program consists of 11 courses totaling 31 credit hours. Two of the 11 courses are offered online. Most students complete the graduate education program in two years, by taking one class each term—including the summer term—and presenting their summary portfolio during their final term.

Course Rotation

Required courses are offered in a rotation at least once a year, giving students a choice of taking their classes at three convenient locations in Overland Park, Shawnee, and Leavenworth, Kansas. Some courses may be offered online. The 10 required three-credit hour courses may be taken in any sequence, ending with the one-credit hour Summary Portfolio.

• ED 720 Curriculum Design and Assessment
• ED 723 Research in Education
• ED 724 Cultural Diversity and Education
• ED 726 Education of the Exceptional Learner
• ED 727 School Law
• ED 728 Instructional Technology
• ED 732 Political and Ethical Structures in Education
• ED 733 Diagnostic Procedures and Instructional Approaches
• ED 734 Adult Education or ED 735 Reading Instruction and Curriculum K-12
• ED 737 Leadership and Change in Education
• ED 799 Seminar: Summary Portfolio (one credit hour)

Course Descriptions

All courses are three credit hours unless otherwise noted.

• ED 720 Curriculum Design & Assessment
• ED 723 Research in Education
• ED 724 Cultural Diversity & Education
• ED 726 Education & the Exceptional Learner
• ED 727 School Law
• ED 728 Instructional Technology
• ED 732 Political & Ethical Structures in Education
• ED 733 Diagnostic Procedures & Instructional Approaches
• ED 734 Adult Education: Theory & Practice
• ED 736 Reading Instruction & Curriculum, K-12
• ED 737 Leadership & Change in Education
• ED 799 Seminar: Summary Portfolio

ED 720 Curriculum Design & Assessment

Examines the interrelationships of learning theory, curricula design, and assessment to develop coherent educational programs. Building on social and cultural foundations, students analyze learning principles and apply them to curriculum and plan alternative assessment of program outcomes. No transfers accepted.

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ED 723 Research in Education

Develops essential skills to complete independent research in all courses and for the summary paper. Students examine quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, analyze research literature, target research problems, and design a research plan that will lead to the collection and analysis of data.

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ED 724 Cultural Diversity & Education

Analyzes race, class, and gender issues relating to learning and organizational development. Students identify and analyze the social and cultural issues affecting policy and practice of education in a pluralistic society, and monitor instruction and learning in a culturally diverse system. Students explore the impact of policy on equal educational opportunity for domestic, ethnic and gender groups. Decision-making framework for developing equity cultures in schools and other organizations are applied to program development and its components of staff training, instructional methods, interactional patterns, and assessment.

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ED 726 Education & the Exceptional Learner

Examines categories of exceptionalities within the sociological and instructional aspects of classroom life. Special emphasis is placed on identification/diagnosis, student and teacher attitudes, and management problems resulting from physical and psychological challenges. Demographic variables including gender, ethnicity and class are examined in relation to interactions and performance.

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Ed 727 School Law

Examines the general structure, theory, and background of law as it applies to education in general and to the classroom specifically. Attention is given to constitutional and civil rights issues; teacher, student, and parent rights; court decisions; and legal procedures.

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ED 728 Instructional Technology

Focuses on the social and technological changes in schools and education systems. Students research, discuss, and develop projects related to technology in instruction, assessment, personal/professional productivity and communication. Offered online.

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ED 732 Political & Ethical Structures in Education

Draws on social and philosophical foundations of education for a critical study of the distribution of power in educational policy making, understanding the ethical implications of these political structures, understanding the role of business and corporate philanthropies and other public and private interest groups, and understanding the textbook industry and the politics of knowledge. This course also looks at the implications of global education for American education, with comparisons to other national education systems.

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Ed 733 Diagnostic Procedures & Instructional Approaches

Focuses on the application of learning in the analysis of instructional strategies and professional development programs. Students assess learners’ needs and performance levels; design instructional strategies to develop critical thinking, problem solving, and decision-making skills; and analyze interpersonal interaction and program components that facilitate learning. No transfers accepted.

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ED 734 Adult Education: Theory & Practice

Introduces the student to the history and philosophy of the adult educational movement in the United States; presents the characteristics of adult learners and barriers to their first learning; and views the many opportunities for and application of adult learning experiences in today’s society. This course is required for all candidates who have not completed teacher preparation (certification) programs. Offered online.

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ED 736 Reading Instruction & Curriculum, K-12

A study of process - oriented reading programs, grades K-12. Special consideration will be given to identifying and defining the major areas of the reading curriculum as well as developmentally appropriate instruction. Attention will be given to the appropriate use of diagnostic information and materials to enhance pupils’ reading abilities. This course replaces ED 734 for licensed teachers.

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ED 737 Leadership & Change in Education

Focuses on the leadership and change literature with an emphasis on applications to instruction, staff development and assessment. Emphasis is placed on leadership and assessment processes that are consistent with constructivist theory.

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ED 799 Seminar: Summary Portfolio (1 credit hour)

The summary portfolio documents the candidate’s professional growth, leadership, scholarship, and level of knowledge throughout the Master of Arts program. This portfolio is developed with guidance by university faculty and is assessed and evaluated by a first and second reader. Candidates who fail to complete the portfolio prior to finishing MA course work will be required to register in ED 799 Seminar: Summary Portfolio Research to complete this process.

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Admission Requirements

USM’s Master of Arts in Education degree program is very affordably priced for the quality of education offered.

To attend, you must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college. You will also need to schedule an interview with your program coordinator or department chair.

To apply, you must provide:

• A completed application and $25 application fee
• Official transcripts from the school where you completed your bachelor’s degree (Unofficial transcripts may be requested from schools where prerequisite coursework was completed and unofficial transcripts should be submitted for any previous graduate work)
• Minimum undergraduate grade point average of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale. Admission on a probationary status may be available to those with lower undergraduate GPAs. Students admitted on a probationary status must earn a grade of B (3.0) or higher in their first six credit hours at USM
• Two letters of recommendation
• An essay focusing on your teaching and learning philosophy

Transferring Credits

You can request to transfer up to six credit hours of applicable coursework from another graduate program toward the USM master’s in education degree.

We recommend that application materials be submitted at least 30 days prior to the start of the term in which you wish to enroll.

Mail all application materials to:
Graduate Admissions
University of Saint Mary Overland Park Campus
11413 Pflumm Road
Overland Park, KS 66215

Graduation Requirements

To successfully complete USM’s Master of Arts in Education program, you must:

• Complete of all your course work and your final summary portfolio within five years of initial enrollment
• Participate in assessment activities
• Maintain a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher
• Pay off all fees

The program consists of 11 courses totaling 31 credit hours. Two of the 11 courses are offered online. Most students complete the graduate education program in two years, by taking one class each term—including the summer term—and presenting their summary portfolio during their final term.

Course Rotation

Required courses are offered in a rotation at least once a year. The 10 required three-credit hour courses may be taken in any sequence, ending with the one-credit hour Summary Portfolio. See our Course Descriptions tab for more information on courses.

• ED 720 Curriculum Design and Assessment
• ED 723 Research in Education
• ED 724 Cultural Diversity and Education
• ED 726 Education of the Exceptional Learner
• ED 727 School Law
• ED 728 Instructional Technology
• ED 732 Political and Ethical Structures in Education
• ED 733 Diagnostic Procedures and Instructional Approaches
• ED 734 Adult Education or ED 735 Reading Instruction and Curriculum K-12
• ED 737 Leadership and Change in Education
• ED 799 Seminar: Summary Portfolio (one credit hour)

Faculty

Program Advisor

Eva Williams
Director of Education Programs, Overland Park Campus; B.A., University of Kansas; M.Ed., Washburn University
(913) 319-3009
williamse@stmary.edu

Eva Williams has 23 years of experience in K-8 Catholic schools in Kansas as both teacher and administrator. She completed her undergraduate degree in classical antiquities at the University of Kansas. At Washburn University she studied elementary education and also earning a Master of Arts in Building Administration. Eva is currently pursuing doctoral studies in Educational Administration at Baker University.

Education Department Chair

Frances Juiliano, SCL, Associate Professor of Education
B.S., Saint Mary College; M.A., University of Northern Colorado; Ed.D., University of Kansas

Sister Frances Juiliano has been the chair of the education department at the University of Saint Mary since 1998 and has been on the faculty since 1980. Over the last several years, Sister Juiliano has been involved in several programs for the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE). This includes the KSDE Program review of three Elementary Education programs, the Policy and Procedures Committee, Preconditions and Annual Report Audit Committee, and she presently serves on the KSDE Alternative Licensure Advisory Board. Sister Juiliano has also coauthored or written several grants along with managing the grants as project director.

Other Full-Time Faculty

Mary Pat Lenahan, SCL, Professor of Education; B.A. Saint Mary College; M.A., University of San Francisco; Ph.D.,
University of Missouri-Kansas City
(913) 758-6388                
lenahanmp@stmary.edu

Sister Mary Pat Lenahan has 19 years of experience in Catholic high schools in Kansas and Montana as both a teacher and administrator. She completed her undergraduate degree in English, a Master of Arts in Administration, and her Interdisciplinary Doctorate in Urban Leadership and Policy Studies and Education. As a professor in the undergraduate and graduate education programs, she continues to teach at our Overland Park, Shawnee, and Leavenworth class sites.

Eva Williams, Director of Education Programs, Overland Park Campus
B.A., University of Kansas; M.Ed., Washburn University

Adjunct Faculty

Randall Bagby, Education
B.A., Friends University; M.A. Wichita State University; Ed.D. Kansas State University

Maureen Hogan, Education
B.S., University of Missouri, Columbia;
M.A., University of Missouri-Kansas City

Sharrilyn Honacki, Education
B.S., M.A., Northern Arizona University; Building-level Administrative Endorsement, University of Kansas

Sue Ann Kline, Education
B.S., Southwest Missouri State University; M.A., University of Missouri-Kansas City;
Ph.D., University of Kansas

Kimberly Mitchell, Education
B.S., M.S., Emporia State University

Debbie Taylor, Education
M.Ed. Kansas State University; B.S. University of Saint Mary

Earl Thomas, Education
B.A., M.A., University of Missouri-Kansas City; Ed.D., Kansas State University

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the Master of Arts Education program accredited? How can I be sure?
• Will these courses transfer to other colleges? What if I want to go on to a degree in administration, reading, or a specialist or doctoral degree?
• Will this master’s degree be accepted by other districts or in other states?
• Do I have to be a certified/licensed teacher to enter the program?
• How will this program help me individually? How will it apply to my specific teaching situation?
• How is this master’s degree program different than others?
• How do I get my books and materials?
• What kinds of assignments are there?
• How much technology do I need to know? What technology support is available?

Is the Master of Arts Education program accredited? How can I be sure?

Yes. The University of Saint Mary Master of Arts Education program is regionally accredited by The North Central Association of Colleges (NCA), 30 N. LaSalle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60602-2504. To verify this, you can call the Association at (800) 621-7440, or send a fax inquiry to (312) 263-7462. The University of Saint Mary also is accredited by the Kansas State Department of Education and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).*

* University of Saint Mary is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). This accreditation covers initial teacher preparation programs and advanced educator preparation programs. NCATE is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation to accredit programs for the preparation of teachers and other professional school personnel.

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Will these courses transfer to other colleges? What if I want to go on to a degree in administration, reading, or a specialist or doctoral degree?

Transfer agreements depend on the college/university and the program that you are entering. Your best strategy is to contact the university or college you plan to attend. Program requirements for each college/university will differ.

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Will this master’s degree be accepted by other districts or in other states?

Yes. Because the University of Saint Mary is regionally accredited, the Master of Arts in Education degree should be recognized across districts and states. However, always check with your district and state department of education for any special requirements.

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Do I have to be a certified/licensed teacher to enter the program?

No. The program is designed for classroom teachers (K-12) and non-traditional students focusing on adult or higher education.

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How will this program help me individually? How will it apply to my specific teaching situation?

This program is based upon a problem-based inquiry model, so you will select challenges or issues that you specifically want to address in your classroom or educational setting. Using everything you read and learn in your coursework and from your fellow students, you will develop, analyze, implement, and assess papers and projects on teaching and learning. This ensures that you receive a rich, personalized learning experience that focuses on student performance.

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How is this master’s degree program different than others?

This 31-credit-hour program blends online and face-to-face coursework at campuses in Overland Park, Shawnee, and Leavenworth, Kansas. Accelerated 8-week courses start in August, October, January, March, and May. Since its establishment in 1923, Saint Mary has gained a reputation for developing value-centered graduates who are strong decision-makers, problem-solvers, and educational leaders.

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How do I get my books and materials?

You may order your books through our online bookstore.

Once I have been accepted, what do I need to do next?

1. Call and arrange to meet with the program director or advisor to select appropriate classes.
2. Visit the Overland Park Campus at 11413 Pflumm to complete an enrollment form and financial arrangements.
3. Order your books from MBS Direct.
4. Obtain your pre-assignment from eSpire, USM’s web secure portal.
5. Come to class on the appropriate night. Contact your program advisor to confirm.

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How much technology do I need to know? What technology support is available?

You need to be able to use email, send attachments in email, utilize web-based and online resources, and create documents in a word processing program. Your instructor will be available to talk you through any technology challenges you may face along the way.