Master of Education

The Augustana University Master of Education (M.Ed.) Program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA). Augustana is also accredited by the South Dakota Department of Education.

Apply for the following upcoming rolling-admission terms:

• Summer 2025 — Deadline on Friday, May 23

• Fall 2025 — Deadline on Thursday, Aug. 21

The application requires official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a 2- to 3-page typed personal statement and cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better.

For more information, visit the graduate education page.

The Augustana University Master of Education (M.Ed.) Program in the Sharon Lust School of Education emulates the Circle of Courage philosophy focusing on belonging, mastery, generosity and independence. The program is designed to enhance an individual’s ability to create positive learning environments by building classrooms and schools that promote belonging, mastery, generosity and independence. To that end, the program provides in-depth knowledge and application of educational research to classroom practice.

The Integrative Studies component of the master’s degree program enables students to interface a liberal arts perspective with rigorous, professional education training.

Goals

• Assume the role of teacher-scholar
• Exhibit strong communication skills, including writing with a variety of purposes/audiences in mind
• Demonstrate reflective, professional dispositions in both work and interactions

Outcomes

• Explore historical and current global, national and local trends, practices and issues in education
• Analyze, synthesize and apply research to inform professional practice
• Develop multicultural competence, increasing self-awareness related to diversity issues, as well as ability to plan for differentiation
• Use technology to support learning and productivity
• Demonstrate abilities in scholarly writing
• Demonstrate understanding of both the core values of Augustana University and the conceptual model of the Sharon Lust School of Education.

The decision to obtain your master’s degree is a significant investment in your future. In addition to enhancing your abilities to create positive learning environments for students, in most cases, a master’s degree correlates to increased compensation.

Because this program is offered online, students can complete their degree requirements and maintain their lifestyles. Online delivery also makes it possible for teachers in rural areas to further their education.

Additionally, this program’s cohort model supports students, since the groups of up to 18 students offer varied perspectives and knowledge.

All applicants in the program must have earned a bachelor's degree, be a licensed teacher and/or eligible for licensure.

This program is 13-16 months, depending on the beginning term. Courses should be taken in the order offered.

A minimum of 30 course credits are required for graduation:

• 21 credits in core classes
• At least nine credits in an area of concentration selected or designed by the student

A maximum of nine semester hours of graduate credit earned at other accredited institutions may be transferred to Augustana and applied to a student's graduate program in the area of their electives only providing that:

• An official transcript is provided
• The credit is approved by the program director
• The credit has not been used in earning an undergraduate degree
• A grade of B- or better was earned for the credits
• The credit is not outdated (more than seven years old)

The cost is determined by cohort. Students entering the program in a particular term will have the same rate of tuition throughout the program. 

For more information, visit the tuition & fees page.

Yes, financial aid is available to qualified students for the core courses in the program.

To be considered for admission to this program, submit the following items to the Augustana Office of Graduate Education:

• Official transcripts showing proof of completed degree with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B) or better, from the undergraduate institution mailed directly to the Augustana Office of Graduate Education. Electronic transcripts can be sent to graduate@augie.edu.
• A copy of current teaching license
• Names of two references with contact information
• A 400-500 word essay (specific instructions are included in the application)
• A non-refundable application fee of $60

Submit an application along with the following items:

• An indication of applicant’s completion of a program leading to licensure
• Two references’ contact information
• A 400-500 word typed essay (specific instructions are included in the application)
• Select or propose an area of concentration
• A non-refundable application fee of $60
• Request official transcripts from your undergraduate institution and any graduate courses be mailed directly to the Augustana Office of Graduate Education. Electronic transcripts can be sent to graduate@augie.edu.

Applications are reviewed each month for the next available cohort, so it’s best to submit applications as soon as possible.

Summer cohorts begin in June. The fall cohort begins at the end of August.

Yes, Augustana has a strong collection in place to support graduate students’ studies. Research support will be provided by librarians via phone, chat, email and texting. Interlibrary loan services are available to supplement research needs. Library staff will assist with technology support inquiries and facilitate referrals to the Help Desk and/or instructional technologist.

Degree requirements for this program include a minimum of 30 credit hours.