Ashford University is bringing its Master of Arts in Education program to its Clinton campus. Currently offered online, the MAEd program will also be available though Ashford’s ASPIRE adult accelerated program beginning July 7. Students will be able to take the program’s eight core courses in Clinton, and then take “specialization” courses online. Each specialization requires four or five online courses. 

“While talking to area educators it was recognized that there was a demand for a Master of Arts in Education at the campus.  We currently offer the degree online but there are many area educators that prefer the ‘face to face’ delivery,” said Dr. Hope Gardina, Ashford University vice president of Academic Affairs. “The delivery will be unique because we are combining the campus and online. The eight core education courses will be delivered at the campus, one night each week with each course being only six weeks long.  Courses for the several different specializations will be offered online.” 

The Master of Arts in Education is designed to present a foundational perspective and increased specialization for educational leaders.  Program core courses define the foundation of knowledge and skills for students to provide instruction to diverse populations.  Students choose a specialization based on their personal interests and expertise. 

Program specializations include Assessment and Measurement, Child Development, Culturally Responsive Education,  Curriculum & Instruction, Distance Learning, Early Childhood Education, Education & Public Policy, Educational Technology Leadership, English Language Learner, Higher Education, Special Education and Teacher Leader.

Students will benefit from opportunities to advance their careers with a degree in education at the Master's level, Gardina said.  “While teaching positions may only require state certification, most school districts require candidates to hold a Master of Arts in Education before advancing to senior management positions,” she noted.  Among the many education careers available to graduates are school leader, district office administrator, program director, dean of students, school board member, curriculum developer, educational consultant and education policy analyst. 

Successful completion and graduation from the Master of Arts in Education is not intended to lead to certification or licensure in any state.  It is the student's responsibility to determine any individual state's certification or licensure requirements. 

For additional information about the Master of Arts in Education program, please contact Ashford University at 866.200.0323 or go to www.ashford.edu/aspire. 

About Ashford University

Founded in 1918, Ashford University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (www.ncahlc.org). The University offers graduate and undergraduate degree programs online and at its Clinton, Iowa, campus. The University is known for its high quality yet highly affordable online and on-campus programs. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Rodriguez, director of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.