Master of Arts in Education in Elementary Education (MAEd)
Grow your teaching and curriculum development skills with a master’s in elementary education from the University of North Alabama. Through advanced education and research in topics such as instructional techniques, learning theory, and classroom management, you will become a sought-after professional capable of even greater contributions to the development of children. This is a 33 semester-hour, online Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) in Elementary Education program.
Time to Complete
Variable, but in as few as 1-2 years
Modality Offered
Online
Credentials
MAEd
Why North Alabama?
With roots tracing back to 1872 as the first state-supported teachers’ college south of the Ohio River, the College of Education and Human Sciences at North Alabama has a rich history of preparing high-quality educators. Our work has expanded to include preparing practitioners and researchers in the fields of education, health, and wellness. We believe that healthy minds and healthy bodies coupled with a desire for knowledge can nurture individuals who are game-changers for the communities of Northwest Alabama, the Southeast Region of the United States, and the world.
Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) in Elementary Education Curriculum
Prerequisite: Must hold a valid bachelor’s-level, Class B professional certificate in the Elementary Education teaching field.
Required Courses:
EED 601 Methods of Action Research for Educators (3)
EED 602 Applied Action Research for Educators (3)
EED 605 Instructional Technology (3)
EED 610 The Master Teacher (3)
EED 611 Issues in Early Childhood and Elementary Education (3)
EED 625 Advanced Studies in Assessment of Early Childhood and Elementary Learners (3)
ALSDE-approved diversity course (consult with advisor) (3)
Advisor-approved coursework related to elementary education (12)
Total Hours: 33
Faculty
The graduate-level elementary education faculty at the University of North Alabama work tirelessly to provide rich experiences outside the classroom for students to develop knowledge, skills, and outlooks that will help them be ready to make a positive impact in their communities.
The faculty dedicated to leading you through your online master’s in elementary education include:
Lisa H. Clayton, EdD, Professor, Program Coordinator, Elementary Education
Terri L. Garrison, PhD, Assistant Professor, Program Coordinator, Early Childhood Education
Rebecca K. Hopkins, PhD, Assistant Professor, Program Coordinator, Collaborative Special Education
Vicki K. Howell, PhD, Assistant Professor, Collaborative Special Education
Lorie M. Johnson, PhD, Assistant Professor, Director, Continuous Improvement & Accreditation
Rebecca E. Smith, PhD, Assistant Professor
Faith A. Kelley, PhD, Assistant Professor
Hongxia Zhao, PhD, Assistant Professor
Kantrele D. King, Lecturer
Chelsea B. Scott, Lecturer
Savannah T. Siniard, Senior Administrative Assistant
Accreditation
All programs are approved by the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) and are accredited through Spring 2028 by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
What can I do with a master's in elementary education?
An elementary education master’s degree will advance your teaching skills and prepare you for leadership roles. You may also consider becoming a post-secondary elementary education instructor, taking on government roles, or private sector positions developing curriculum, educational materials, or tests or as an educational consultant.
Testimonials
"I am a better teacher today because of the opportunity I have had to collaborate with UNA faculty in research while pursuing my MAED in Elementary Education. Not only have I experienced professional growth, my students are reaping the benefits and becoming more successful in the classroom. Without UNA, my students and I would not be where we are today."
~ Andrew Bishop
"The University of North Alabama provides our teachers with an excellent option for obtaining a master’s degree in elementary or special education. These opportunities ensure that our teachers are equipped with the latest evidence-based pedagogy needed to reach our students. We place great value on our partnership with the University of North Alabama as we work together to place qualified, talented teachers in our classrooms!"
~ Dr. Denise Woods
Admissions Requirements
Admission into the online Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) in Elementary Education program at the University North Alabama includes the following requirements:
- Scholastic achievement: a bachelor’s or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution.
- Preparation: currently hold valid baccalaureate-level professional educator certification in Elementary Education and/or satisfy the requirements for the Alabama Class B professional certificate.
Tuition and Aid
Online: $350 per credit hour plus a $50 distance learning fee with no out-of-state tuition or other, traditional fees.
Tuition Cost
Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) in Elementary Education
Online: $400 per credit hour for 33 credit hours.