Teaching, Learning, and Advocacy, M.Ed.

Teaching, Learning, and Advocacy, M.Ed.

Program Snapshot

Degree: Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Delivery Format: On-Campus 
Credits Required: 36 credits
Typical Completion Time: 2 Years, Part-Time

Overview

The Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Teaching, Learning & Advocacy prepares educators and education professionals to strengthen teaching practices, influence educational policy and advocate for equitable learning environments. The program is designed for current teachers as well as individuals passionate about improving educational opportunities for all students and supporting public education.

Students complete a core set of courses that focus on research, policy analysis, advocacy and reflective practice, helping them connect educational theory to real-world challenges in schools and communities.

The program offers three concentration areas that allow students to tailor their learning to professional goals:

  • Curriculum and Instruction – Develop expertise in curriculum design, implementation and evaluation while strengthening instructional strategies for P–12 classrooms.
  • Diverse Learners – Explore courses related to multilingual learners and special education, with opportunities to pursue add-on certifications.
  • Science and Mathematics – Expand expertise in STEM education through coursework focused on innovative teaching practices and curriculum development.

Through these pathways, graduates gain the skills needed to lead instructional improvement and advocate for meaningful change in educational systems.

Who Should Apply

This program is ideal for:

  • Classroom teachers seeking advanced instructional and leadership skills
  • Education professionals focused on curriculum, advocacy, or organizational change
  • Individuals preparing for specialized roles in educational policy or administration

Careers and Outcomes

Graduates of the M.Ed. in Teaching, Learning & Advocacy develop advanced skills in educational leadership, research and advocacy that can enhance their impact across a variety of educational settings.

Career pathways may include:

  • Instructional coach or curriculum specialist
  • Teacher leader or department chair
  • Educational program coordinator
  • Education policy or advocacy professional
  • School or district-level instructional leader

By strengthening expertise in curriculum, policy and research, graduates are prepared to influence teaching and learning practices and advocate for equitable educational opportunities in schools and communities.

Curriculum

Program Requirements

  • Credit Hours: 36
  • Capstone Project

Required Core Coursework 

18 Credit Hours

EDFS 632 Education Psychology Learning, Cognition, and Motivation (3)
EDFS 635 Educational Research (3)
MTLA 601 Class, Race and Gender in Education (3)
MTLA 602 Policies and Issues in Contemporary Education (3)
MTLA 607 Teachers as Advocates for Children and Youth (3)
MTLA 702 Research and Development Project (3)

Curriculum and Instruction Concentration (18 Credit Hours)

MTLA 668 Curriculum: Foundations, Principles, Issues and Applications

Additional Elective Coursework (15 Credit Hours)

Diverse Learners Concentration (18 Credit Hours)

Elective Coursework

Science and Mathematics Concentration (18 Credit Hours)

EDFS 660 Nature of Science, Mathematics, and Science/Mathematics Education
SMFT 670 Advanced Methods in Science and Mathematics

Additional Elective Coursework (12 Credit Hours)

All courses are three (3) credit hours unless otherwise notated.

Admissions Requirements

In addition to meeting institutional admission requirements, applicants are expected to demonstrate an overall A/B average in previous college work or preparation judged to be equivalent.

  • Statement of purpose or goals describing academic and professional interests
  • Professional résumé or curriculum vitae.
  • Two (2) academic or professional references

Admissions decisions are reviewed holistically, considering academic preparation, professional experience, and fit with program goals. The M.Ed. program is designed for both full-time and part-time students. Criteria and standards for admission are the same for full-time and part-time students.

Graduate Tuition & Financial Information

Graduate tuition for the School of Education is based on credit hours. Estimated rates for 2025-2026 are:

South Carolina Educator Rate: $499/credit

Non-Educator Rate: $570/credit

Fees are not included.

For the purposes of the South Carolina public educator tuition discount, a public educator is defined as an individual employed by a public school, public school district, public charter school, or public higher education institution in the State. This includes:

  • P–12 educators and staff: classroom teachers, administrators, counselors, specialists, district leaders, and school support staff (including office personnel, custodians, cafeteria workers, and bus drivers).
  • Charter school employees: faculty, staff, and administrators serving public charter schools.
  • Higher education personnel: faculty and staff at South Carolina’s public colleges and universities.

Exact costs vary by enrollment status and term; course fees may apply.

Graduate students may pursue financial aid, assistantships, and scholarship opportunities through the Graduate School.

For the most current rates, review the Tuition and Financial Aid portion of the Graduate School website.

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