Master of Science in Education in Secondary or PreK-12 Education (Transition to Teaching)
Hours: *24 Credit Hours to Licensure, *36 Credit Hours for MSE Online
About
The MSE in Secondary or PreK-12 Education (Transition to Teaching) program at Fort Hays State University is designed to facilitate a swift transition into teaching for individuals with an undergraduate degree in a field other than education. This online program focuses on providing the necessary pedagogical skills and practical experience to enable graduates to excel in classroom settings. Emphasizing flexibility and accessibility, the program ensures that aspiring teachers can complete their studies while managing other professional and personal commitments.
This accelerated teaching program offers a robust curriculum that includes foundational education courses, classroom management strategies, and subject-specific pedagogy. By integrating cloud-based coursework and flexible design, the program remains aligned with the latest advancements and trends in education, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of modern classrooms. With a Kansas Professional Teaching license as a critical outcome, graduates are equipped to impact educational settings across the state significantly.
Why pursue a Master of Science in Education in Secondary or PreK-12 Education (Transition to Teaching) at Fort Hays State University?
The MSE in Secondary or PreK-12 Education (Transition to Teaching) program at FHSU offers a unique and flexible learning environment tailored to the needs of career changers and aspiring teachers. We provide an entirely online curriculum, allowing students to balance their studies with professional and personal commitments. This flexibility ensures students can access high-quality education from anywhere, making it ideal for those transitioning into teaching without disrupting their current lives.
Additionally, FHSU's program stands out for its emphasis on real-world application and practical experience. Students gain skills through field experiences and virtual classroom simulations, preparing them to manage actual classroom scenarios effectively. The program is designed to be comprehensive and up-to-date, integrating the latest educational trends and technologies. This approach ensures that graduates are knowledgeable and adept at using modern tools and strategies in their teaching practice.
Who is this program for?
The MSE in Secondary or PreK-12 Education (Transition to Teaching) program at FHSU is designed for diverse individuals seeking to transition into the teaching profession. This program is particularly well-suited for:
- Career changers looking to enter education
- Individuals with a non-education undergraduate degree
- Aspiring teachers needing licensure
- Professionals seeking a flexible, online program
- Those interested in impacting the educational field
- Candidates looking for an accelerated path to teaching
Learning Outcomes
The MSE in Secondary or PreK-12 Education (Transition to Teaching) program at FHSU is designed to produce highly skilled and effective educators who are prepared to meet the demands of modern classrooms. The program's learning outcomes focus on critical areas essential for successful teaching.
Learner Development
Graduates will understand and support diverse student developmental needs. They will be adept at recognizing their students' developmental stages and learning needs, allowing them to tailor their instructional strategies to meet individual needs effectively. This includes creating inclusive learning environments that foster growth for all students.
Learning Environment
Graduates will create inclusive and effective learning environments. They will learn to design and manage classrooms that promote a positive and engaging atmosphere conducive to learning. This involves implementing strategies to support social, emotional, and academic development, ensuring all students feel valued and capable of success.
Instructional Practice
Graduates will employ evidence-based teaching practices. The program emphasizes using proven instructional strategies to enhance student learning and achievement. Graduates will be proficient in designing and delivering lessons that engage students, assess their understanding, and adjust instruction based on formative assessments.
Professional Responsibility
Graduates will uphold ethical standards and commit to continuous professional growth. They will demonstrate professionalism, ethical behavior, and a dedication to lifelong learning. This includes engaging in reflective practice, seeking professional development opportunities, and staying informed about the latest research and trends in education.
Real-World Applications
The MSE in Secondary or PreK-12 Education (Transition to Teaching) at FHSU equips students with practical skills and real-world experience essential for a successful teaching career. The program includes extensive field experiences where students observe and participate in classroom activities, providing them with firsthand insight into effective teaching practices. These experiences are invaluable in preparing students to handle a modern classroom's dynamic and often challenging environment.
Moreover, the curriculum is designed to apply to real-world teaching scenarios directly. Students learn to develop lesson plans, manage classroom behavior, and assess student progress using various methods. Integrating cloud-based technology in coursework ensures that students are proficient in the latest educational tools, which are increasingly important in today's digital learning environments. Students are well-prepared to step into teaching roles with confidence and competence by graduation.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Our MSE in Secondary or PreK-12 Education (Transition to Teaching) program is continually updated to reflect the latest educational advancements and trends. The program's cloud-based curriculum allows for seamless updates and integration of new research, pedagogical techniques, and technological innovations. This ensures that students are always learning the most current and effective teaching methods, keeping them ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving field of education.
Students are exposed to emerging trends such as personalized learning, digital classrooms, and inclusive education practices. These trends are woven throughout the coursework, allowing students to explore and implement innovative teaching strategies. The program's commitment to staying current prepares graduates to adapt to new challenges and opportunities in the education sector, making them highly competitive in the job market.
Practical Activities
The MSE in Secondary or PreK-12 Education (Transition to Teaching) program at FHSU includes a variety of experiential learning opportunities designed to enhance practical teaching skills. From the beginning of their program of study, graduate students in this program are assigned as the “teacher of record’, having the responsibilities and opportunities for learning on the job.
This mix of academic coursework and practical teaching responsibilities is critical for bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Through these experiences, students deeply understand classroom dynamics, effective teaching strategies, and student engagement techniques. This practical focus ensures that graduates are well-prepared to transition seamlessly into full-time teaching roles.
What You’ll Learn:
- Classroom management techniques
- Effective teaching strategies
- Student assessment methods
- Educational technology integration
- Legal and ethical considerations in teaching
How You’ll Learn:
- Fully online coursework
- Interactive cloud-based modules
- Virtual classroom simulations
- Real-time feedback from educators
- Comprehensive support system
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 $3,047.58* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate ($338.62/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
The MSE in Secondary or PreK-12 Education (Transition to Teaching) program is part of a comprehensive educational framework at FHSU. For those interested in expanding their qualifications or exploring related fields, FHSU offers several other programs that complement this transition to teaching pathway:
- Master of Science in Education (Curriculum & Instruction – The Effective Teacher)
- Master of Science in Education (Curriculum & Instruction – Exceptional and Diverse Learners)
- Master of Science in Education (Curriculum & Instruction – Science of Language and Literacy)
- Master of Science in Education (Curriculum & Instruction – STEM Education)
- BSE in Secondary Education
- BSE in Elementary Education (Early Child Unified)
- BSE in Elementary Education (PreK-6)
- M.S. in Special Education
- M.S. in Education Administration
- MSE in Elementary Education (Transition to Teaching)
Information about the Department of Advanced Education Programs
FHSU’s Department of Advanced Education Programs (AEP) is one of the most diverse and comprehensive departments, offering a wide range of programs designed to fit the unique needs of educators at every stage of their careers. Whether you aim to enhance your teaching skills, pursue a role as a building principal or community counselor, add an endorsement, or renew your license, our department is dedicated to helping you succeed in your aspirations.
AEP aims to be the leader in preparing inclusive educational and community professionals to unlock innovative potential in a rapidly advancing world, by preparing global leaders who serve in these settings. Our programs focus on the interaction among innovative technologies, relevant content, diversity, and best practices.