Graduate Programs
Our graduate programs combine rigorous coursework and hands-on experiences firmly rooted in evidence-based practices to help educators and other practitioners build a better tomorrow for children, families, schools, organizations and communities. We offer master’s, education specialist and doctoral degrees, as well as graduate certificates that allow students to explore new skills and knowledge in focused areas. All of our graduate programs are designed with working professionals in mind, and many can be completed entirely online. Our outstanding faculty have a wealth of research and practical experience, and our courses emphasize building a community of practice with your fellow graduate students and colleagues.
Master’s and Education Specialist Programs
The College of Education and Human Development’s master’s and education specialist (Ed.S.) degree programs are designed to help graduate students seeking professional growth and new roles or responsibilities in their chosen field. Our graduate faculty provide mentorship, along with specialized coursework that emphasizes leadership, ingenuity, and the latest technologies and evidence-based practices to help you meet the needs of children, schools and communities. All of our master’s and Ed.S. programs involve rich practical experience and research components designed to give you opportunities to apply what you’ve learned in your courses to real life examples from your own work. Certain programs lead to additional endorsements or certification. Many are 100% online. Others feature hybrid or blended learning options, making them ideal for working professionals. A master’s degree requires anywhere from 30 to 36 credits, and a faculty advisor will guide you through your program of study. A typical Ed.S. degree requires 30 credits beyond a master’s, and is generally a terminal degree that is individually designed by the student with their advisor.
Graduate Certificates
Not ready to commit to a master’s or Ed.S. degree? A graduate certificate from the College of Education and Human Development is an excellent way to build skills and knowledge in focused areas as you advance in your career. All of our certificate programs consist of between 9 and 15 credit hours (3-5 classes) and most are 100% online, making them a perfect option for working professionals. Whether you’re hoping to develop as a leader within your school or become certified in a new area, we have a variety of options to suit your needs. A graduate certificate is also a good way to get started on a master’s degree. In fact, many of our graduate degree programs include concentrations that allow students to earn graduate certificates as well.
Doctoral Programs
The College of Education and Human Development’s doctoral programs are designed to help forward-thinking scholars, institutional leaders and policymakers address complex issues and meet ongoing and future challenges at all levels of education. Our faculty emphasize using research to address real-world problems, and bridge theory-to-practice gaps. Students in the PreK-12 Education Ph.D. can tailor their experience with areas of specialization in STEM Education, Special Education, Literacy Education, and Prevention and Intervention. Our Ed.D. in Educational Leadership offers an unique, statewide cohort model that emphasizes an awareness of the cultural importance of schools and communities, particularly in rural areas of Maine and beyond. Students in our Higher Education doctoral program learn to be ethical, visionary, informed and competent leaders of colleges and universities.
Questions?
Email coehd@maine.edu.