Secondary Education (M.Ed.)

Why Earn a Master's Degree in Secondary Education?

As the premier teacher-training institution in Maryland, Towson University has a 150-year tradition of preparing classroom teachers, education specialists and school leaders. As school systems increase teachers’ responsibilities and raise expectations for student performance, your Towson degree will position you to take full advantage of growing opportunities in the field.

Our program is designed for middle and high school teachers to gain advanced skills in research-based practices for teaching subject matter to diverse learners. In our increasingly interdependent world, there is a need to prepare teachers to be global educators who internationalize schools through curriculum development, instructional design, action research and teacher leadership. As such, we welcome local teachers as well as teachers from around the world.

M.Ed. graduates are frequently promoted to leadership roles in their subject areas or find positions in museums, foundations, and other organizations devoted to public education.

How the M.Ed. in Secondary Education Prepares Students

In this program you will learn from supportive faculty members recognized for their contributions to the field as teachers, scholars and advisers. The M.Ed. in secondary education prepares you to:

• develop advanced competencies in curriculum development, instructional design and evaluation of curriculum and instruction
• understand the diverse nature of learners, society, and the implications for learning
• assume leadership roles in curriculum and instruction in the education profession
• use technology and media to enhance learning
• understand and use appropriate assessment and evaluation
• engage in scholarly activities to promote student achievement
• think and reflect critically about the educational processes and professional practice

Degree Requirements and Course Descriptions

You can view admission and degree requirements and course descriptions in the Graduate Catalog. Beyond the six required core courses, the program includes five elective courses. Students can focus their elective coursework in important areas such as: subject-matter knowledge, international education, middle school education, working with English language learners, working with students with special needs, and school leadership. Elective courses in leadership can lead to Administrator I certification for public school leaders in Maryland.

What if I’ve Never Taught Before? 

Those seeking to enter the teaching profession should pursue the Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) degree. The M.A.T. program is designed for those who want to earn their first teaching certificate and become a new teacher. Learn more about the M.A.T. program.

why towson?

Program Advantages

• Towson’s long history and reputation as an excellent teacher training institution
• programs accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and the Maryland State Department of Education, and meet the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards’ mission
• accommodates working professionals and full-time students with a variety of later afternoon, evening and online classes
• include opportunities to develop advanced leadership skills

Flexible Options

The M.Ed. offers a thesis and non-thesis track. You are encouraged to pursue a more concentrated study in an area of your interest and write a thesis. The non-thesis track requires an additional elective and three-credit capstone project incorporating original research.