Master of Education

The Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree at Southern Methodist University is designed to meet the needs of practicing teachers.  The 36-credit-hour degree program offers maximum flexibility for the educator whose interest lies in broadening both academic preparation and classroom skills.  The program can be individualized for teachers at all levels, pre-kindergarten through grade 12.

Teachers in the degree program have the opportunity to earn certificates including the Master Reading Teacher, Bilingual, Gifted/Talented, Master Math Teacher, Master Technology Teacher, Master Science Teacher, and ESL certificates or pursue specializations, such as the Learning Therapy specialization certificates.  The education core courses refine pedagogical skills and expand knowledge of education in its psychological, social, and cultural context.

How is the program structured?

The M.Ed. has three modules of study--a specialization module, a core module, and an elective module. Each module consists of 12 credit hours.  The specialization module focuses on courses that "specialize" in one of the following areas: reading (MRT), math (MMT), technology (MTT), science (MST), bilingual education (Bilingual Supplemental Certification), English as a Second Language (ESL Certification), learning therapy (Learning Therapy Certification), or gifted education (Gifted and Talented Supplemental Certification).  The core module (see below) comprises courses in the areas of research, philosophy, urban studies, and psychology.  The elective module allows each student to choose courses that best fit their interests/needs.

Core Courses (click on titles to link to descriptions)

Who comprises the faculty?

Faculty is drawn from professors in the Annette Caldwell Simmons School of Education and Human Development.  Visiting professors and lecturers also contribute to the offerings of the program.

What are the admission requirements?

• A baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution
• A preferred minimum undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale). NOTE: Applicants whose GPAs fall below 3.0 may request an exemption to this requirement by attaching a letter explaining why an exception should be made (such as long-term experience, expertise in a related specialized field, or a satisfactory Graduate Record Examination score).
• Applicants from countries where the predominant language is not English are required to supply scores on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) administered by the Educational Testing Service. The minimum score for admission is 550 on a pencil and paper test or 214 on a computer-based test
• Demonstration of competence in speaking and writing the English language and the ability to think critically. These competencies will be demonstrated through the submission of a 2-3 page written statement of career goals and how a master's degree will facilitate reaching these goals.
• Recommendations and evidence of a high degree of support from the school of employment

Applicants should not expect to receive more than six hours of transfer credit from other institutions.  Students will need to submit the transfer request the first semester of enrollment.  Only courses with a grade of B or above can be transferred.  Generally, no credit will be allowed toward the Master's degree for courses taken more than six years before acceptance into the program.  Any exceptions to the requirements and policies stated above must have the approval of the Dean of the Annette Caldwell Simmons School of Education and Human Development.

When Are Application Deadlines?

  • Fall semesters            July 1             
  • Spring semesters        November 1   
  • Summer sessions        April 1            

How do I apply?

Click here to apply to the Master of Education program.  The normal application fee is $75.  Click here to view a schedule of courses.

How much will the program cost?

Graduate students in the program take advantage of SMU's reduced tuition rate for educators, $411 per semester hour for Academic Year 2008-09.  Participants are encouraged to seek financial assistance from their school districts.  There is an additional fee for parking.

Financial Aid

Students who are admitted to a degree program (such as the M.Ed. or the M.B.E.) and who enroll for a minimum of 6 hours in any one term may be eligible to apply for federal financial aid.

Walker Merit Scholarship Program

Please click here for more information about this scholarship program.

Who can give me additional information?

Please click here to read the Master's Degrees handbook.

For additional information, please call the Department of Teaching and Learning at 214-768-2346 or e-mail teachlearn@smu.edu.