Master of Science in Education (Elementary Education (PreK-6) – Licensed Teachers)
Hours: 36 Online
About
The Master of Science in Education (Elementary Education (PreK-6) – Licensed Teachers) program at Fort Hays State University is designed for educators who hold a valid teaching license in areas beyond elementary education, such as early childhood or secondary education. Offered entirely online, this program effectively integrates practical experience with a rigorous academic curriculum.
Participants will engage in comprehensive coursework covering essential topics such as classroom management, teaching methodologies, and assessment strategies. Additionally, students will complete a practicum in a locally approved elementary classroom, providing valuable hands-on experience. The program's flexibility, coupled with robust support systems, equips graduate students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary for a successful transition to elementary education settings. Hear firsthand from a program grad! Watch their story.
Why pursue a Master of Science in Education (Elementary Education (PreK-6) Licensed Teachers) at Fort Hays State University?
The Master of Science in Education (Elementary Education (PreK-6) – Licensed Teachers) program is distinguished by its emphasis on flexibility, academic excellence, and alignment with career objectives. Specifically designed for educators who currently hold a non-elementary teaching license, this program enables professionals to attain a PreK-6 endorsement while maintaining their ongoing careers. FHSU cannot guarantee licensure outside of Kansas. Please consult with your state’s Department of Education for licensure requirements.
In addition to its accessibility, the program at FHSU adheres to both national and Kansas education standards, thereby ensuring its academic rigor and professional applicability. The curriculum has been thoughtfully developed to address the needs of contemporary classrooms, with a strong focus on inclusive teaching strategies, practical instructional methodologies, and the effective integration of educational technology.
Who is this program for?
The Master of Science in Education (Elementary Education (PreK-6) – Licensed Teachers) is designed for educators who hold a teaching license in a discipline outside of elementary education and wish to enhance their qualifications. This program is particularly beneficial for those currently teaching in early childhood, middle, or secondary education settings, as it offers a strategic pathway to expand professional expertise and effectively serve young learners in PreK-6 classrooms. If you have a degree and want to become an elementary teacher, the Master of Science in Education (Elementary Education (PreK-6)- Traditional Certification) is the best program for you. If you have a non-education degree and a school district willing to hire you, the Master of Science in Education (Elementary Education – Transition to Teaching) program may be the best fit.
- Licensed teachers seeking K-6 certification
- Early childhood educators expanding their credentials
- Secondary teachers pursuing K-6 licensure
- Career educators looking for flexible online graduate options
Real-World Applications
The Master of Science in Education (Elementary Education (PreK-6) – Licensed Teachers) emphasizes practical application, preparing students to step into elementary classrooms confidently. From the beginning of the program, coursework focuses on scenarios that teachers face daily, such as managing classroom behavior, differentiating instruction, and supporting literacy development.
The program emphasizes building teaching skills that translate directly to success in the classroom. Educators will graduate with the ability to design and deliver effective lesson plans, utilize data to adjust instruction, and create inclusive environments that caters to all learners.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
To ensure that graduates remain competitive in the ever-evolving field of education, FHSU incorporates current trends and innovative practices into its curriculum. Courses explore the latest strategies in classroom management, instructional methods, and literacy instruction, while emphasizing the increasing significance of educational technology and digital learning tools.
Hands-on Activities
Hands-on learning is a fundamental aspect of the Master of Science in Education program for Licensed Teachers in Elementary Education (PreK-6). Every student participates in a practicum experience within an accredited K-6 classroom, where they can apply their coursework in real-world educational settings. These experiences not only foster confidence in their teaching skills but also provide valuable feedback from mentor educators and prepare them for classroom readiness required for licensure.
In addition to the practicum, students partake in practical assignments throughout the online curriculum. These assignments may involve creating lesson plans, analyzing student work samples, conducting virtual observations, and utilizing assessment data to inform instructional decisions.
What You’ll Learn:
- Teaching methods for elementary grades
- Classroom assessment and evaluation
- Best practices in literacy instruction
- Differentiation for all learners
- Language arts strategies
- Educational foundations in kindergarten through sixth-grade pedagogy
How You’ll Learn:
- 100% online learning format
- Fieldwork in a local school district
- Video and media-integrated instruction
- Applied lesson planning and feedback
- Collaboration with mentor educators
- Coursework aligned with licensure exams
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,139.02* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate ($348.78/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers a wide range of educator preparation programs that support professional growth across multiple specialties. Whether interested in literacy, leadership, or a different teaching level, FHSU provides complementary and alternative pathways. Other programs to explore include:
- BSE in Elementary Education (PreK-6)
- Master of Science in Education (Secondary Education)
- M.S. in Special Education (Low Incidence)
- Master of Science in Education (Elementary Education (PreK-6)- Traditional Certification)
- Master of Science in Education (Elementary Education – Transition to Teaching)
Information about the Department of Teacher Education
The Department of Teacher Education at FHSU offers a nationally ranked program that combines theoretical knowledge with practical classroom experiences. Our innovative approach integrates the latest educational technology to provide a comprehensive and effective teaching education. Our online and on-campus programs are designed to prepare educators who are not only skilled and knowledgeable but also adaptable to diverse student needs. Our programs are recognized for excellence in teacher preparation. With top national rankings and a commitment to accessibility and affordability, we ensure that our graduates are well-equipped to make a significant impact in the field of education.