Overview

ACU’s Master of Arts in Education program trains students in the art and science of teaching. They are given the information and training necessary to develop into skillful educational leaders and educators.

This program is designed with two purposes, 1) to equip students without education degrees to transition to careers in education, including certification in elementary or secondary education; 2) students with degrees in education can advance their careers in specific content areas or certificate specializations, enabling them to be instructional coaches, teach dual-enrolled courses, teach at a community college, or engage in other leadership opportunities.

Admissions Requirements

• • • Undergraduate bachelor’s degree from an institutionally accredited organization.  Non-institutionally accredited organizations and international applicants will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 3-year international degrees may be considered.
  • • Minimum 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA.  Students that do not meet this minimum but are withing 10% of the required GPA or who have other compelling strengths in their application may be designated by the director of admissions for review by the Graduate Admission Review Board.
  • • Contact information for two character references that can be reached if needed.  These should be academic or professional references.
  • • Evidence in the application of agreement with ACU’s statement of faith and core convictions, a deep and credible Christian faith, and vocational fit with the program. 
  • • Copy of IVP Fingerprint card or receipt showing the application for an IVP Fingerprint Card.
  • • For programs leading to certification, Content Area Exam taken or proof it is scheduled to be taken.
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Degree Concentrations

• Concentration in Instructional Leadership (36 Credit Hours Required)

The expectation for students with a concentration in Instructional Leadership is that they will return to the field of education as academic coaches, teachers of dual-enrollment classes, or teachers at a two- or four-year college who are prepared to guide and lead other educators or students. 

• Concentration in Teaching and Learning (36 Credit Hours Required)

The expectation for students with a concentration in Teaching and Learning is that they will become teachers who are fully equipped to challenge, motivate, and inspire their students and enable their students to reach their greatest potential. There are emphases in Elementary and Secondary education.