Master of Arts in Education (MAE)

This program is designed for professionals seeking to enter, advance, or redirect their careers in education or related fields such as trainers in the corporate industry. This degree does not lead to a teaching license or credential to provide services in the K-12 education system.  All students complete three MAE core courses and 21 credits satisfied via elective courses and/or concentration areas to fulfill the total program requirement of 30 credits). From the first required course, students will map a personalized Plan of Study that aligns professional goals, program learning outcomes, and workforce competence. Students will frame a relational, practice-based research question tied to professional goals then revisit and deepen this inquiry throughout the program to apply new tools, theories and strategies.  Whether advancing current professional positioning, or prepping for a new role in education, the MAE program helps students translate graduate-level learning into practical, career-advancing outcomes.

Program Learning Outcomes

• Research: Present a practitioner research proposal that is grounded in a clear relational research question, aligned with the Plan of Study, and connected to the Master of Arts in Education (MAE) Program Learning Outcomes and professional practice.
• Collaborative Voice: Apply instructional and reflective practices that foster collaboration, build professional learning communities, and elevate student voice within inclusive, authentic learning contexts, informed by contemporary learning science.
• Inclusive Innovation: Evaluate technology-enhanced learning environments and assessments that embody ethical, equitable, and culturally responsive practices for diverse learners.
• Student-Centered Design: Adapt student-centered curricular experiences that integrate diverse learner characteristics, learning theories, and brain science to promote deep, transferable learning in real-world educational settings.
• Professional Identity and Leadership: Demonstrate ethical, reflective, and culturally responsive leadership by engaging in continuous professional learning, advocacy, and partnership with families, communities, and stakeholders.

Workforce Related Skills Developed in the MAE Program

Graduates develop competencies valued across industries and global learning environments, including:

• Research and data-informed decision-making
• Curriculum and training program design
• Adult learning theory and workforce learning strategies
• Technology integration and digital learning development
• Leadership, collaboration, and facilitation
• Counseling-informed communication, mentoring, and learner support strategies
• Equity-centered, culturally responsive, and globally informed program design
• Program evaluation and continuous improvement

Program Start Dates

The Master of Arts in Education program starts three times a year in Fall I, Spring I, and Summer I. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the program may be achieved by satisfactorily fulfilling graduate admission requirements for University of Massachusetts Global as stated in the catalog (see the Graduate Admission section).

School of Education Program Support Fee

A program support fee is assessed every enrolled session for students in the School of Education credential and degree programs. This fee supports essential services, tools, and coaching that enhance academic success through support systems. This fee directly supports the School of Education’s commitment to preparing highly effective educators and educational leaders through high-quality, student-centered programs. Please see Tuition and Fees section of this catalog for corresponding fee.