Master's in Education at Faulkner University: Your Complete Program Guide

Alabama's teacher shortage continues to reshape hiring incentives for advanced degree holders, with some districts offering salary supplements of $5,000 or more for master's-level educators. Faulkner University, a Christian institution in Montgomery, integrates that market reality with a faith-based framework, offering a Master of Education that emphasizes both professional competence and ethical leadership.

Specializations span elementary education, special education, and instructional leadership, with online, on-campus, and hybrid formats designed for working teachers.

The program holds regional accreditation and aligns with Alabama licensure requirements, preparing graduates for classroom teaching, coaching, or administrative roles. For current educators, the degree remains a reliable lever for moving up the salary schedule in a state actively seeking advanced talent.

Master's in Education Program Overview

Some graduate programs focus heavily on academic theory while others emphasize immediate classroom application. Faulkner University's Master's in Education integrates both, preparing educators who can reflect deeply on their practice while implementing research-backed strategies from day one.

Specializations Aligned with Your Career Path

The College of Education at Faulkner University offers a range of Master of Education (M.Ed.) specializations, each grounded in a Christian worldview that values service, ethical leadership, and the holistic development of every learner. The following specializations allow you to tailor your graduate studies to your professional goals:

• Curriculum & Instruction: Designed for educators who want to deepen their understanding of instructional design, assessment, and curriculum development across grade levels.
• Elementary Education: Prepares teachers to meet the developmental needs of children in K-6 settings, with a focus on building foundational skills and fostering a love for learning.
• Secondary Education: For educators working with middle and high school students, this track emphasizes subject-area expertise and strategies for engaging adolescents.
• English: A content-specific specialization for English teachers seeking advanced knowledge in literary analysis, composition pedagogy, and language arts instruction.
• School Counseling: Equips candidates with the skills to support student academic, social-emotional, and career development through comprehensive school counseling programs.

Where Theory Meets the Classroom

Faulkner's M.Ed. programs are built on a reciprocal relationship between research and practice. Coursework examines current educational studies and proven instructional frameworks, but every course asks you to translate that knowledge into real-world teaching or counseling scenarios. Field experiences, case study analyses, and portfolio projects are woven throughout the curriculum so that when you complete a module, you leave with strategies that work in your own classroom or school setting the very next day.

Expert Faculty and Personalized Attention

Small class sizes are a hallmark of the graduate education experience at Faulkner. Classes typically range from 10 to 20 students, ensuring that you receive individualized feedback from faculty who are both scholars and practitioners. Many professors hold terminal degrees in their fields and continue to be active in K-12 schools, professional organizations, or educational research. This blend of academic rigor and real-world insight helps you build lasting mentoring relationships and a professional network that extends beyond graduation.

Program Specializations and Curriculum

Deciding between a master’s in education that leads to a new teaching license and one that builds advanced skills without adding certification is often the first fork in the road for graduate students. Faulkner University’s M.Ed. programs are structured around this very choice, offering both certification and non-certification tracks with distinct specializations that align with your career goals.

Finding the Right Specialization

Faulkner’s College of Education delivers graduate programs designed for working educators, with online and on-campus options. The curriculum in each specialization blends a Christian ethical framework with practical, research-based teaching methods. Below is a quick-reference table that breaks down core courses and credit requirements for the primary specializations.

*Note: Core courses listed are representative; consult the latest Faulkner University graduate catalog for full, up-to-date requirements. Some specializations include additional prerequisites or state-specific exams for certification.*

Certification vs. Non-Certification Paths

The masters in curriculum and instruction (M.Ed.) is ideal if you already hold a teaching certificate and want to enhance your classroom practice or move into a curriculum leadership role without seeking a new endorsement.¹ It focuses on advanced pedagogical theory, technology integration, and research.

For those seeking initial or advanced Alabama teacher certification, the Elementary and Secondary tracks are the primary routes. The Traditional Class A program in Elementary Education deepens content knowledge and pedagogy for certified teachers, while the Alternative A track is for those pursuing an M.Ed. without teaching experience who need initial licensure. The Alternative A Elementary program requires 42 credit hours² and includes both professional studies and content-specific courses.

The Secondary Education: English Language Arts Alternative A follows a similar framework, preparing you to teach English at the middle and high school levels. It combines a professional education core with specialized methods in teaching literature, writing, and language.⁴ Though exact credit totals for this track are not detailed in all university publications, it typically aligns with the 42-credit model for initial certification.

School Counseling, a 60-credit program, prepares you for K-12 counseling roles across elementary, middle, and high school settings.³ It includes extensive coursework in human development, counseling techniques, and two supervised practicum/internship experiences. Note that counseling licensure may require additional steps after graduation, such as passing a comprehensive exam and satisfying work experience requirements.

Flexible Curriculum Delivery

Most M.Ed. courses at Faulkner are offered in an asynchronous online format, with some programs also available through weekly evening classes on the Montgomery campus or at extension sites.³ This flexibility allows you to maintain employment while completing fieldwork, such as the action research project embedded in the Curriculum & Instruction and Elementary Education tracks. Faith integration is woven throughout. Expect regular opportunities to connect educational practices with Christian servant-leadership principles.

Whether you’re aiming for a new license or refining your craft, Faulkner’s deliberately structured specializations help you map out a clear path from enrollment to graduation and, ultimately, to the classroom or counseling office where you’re called to serve.

Flexible Learning Formats: Online, On-Campus, and Hybrid

Graduate education programs often offer multiple learning formats to accommodate different schedules and learning preferences. Understanding the trade-offs can help you choose the best fit for your lifestyle and career goals.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid

Tuition Breakdown

Faulkner University charges a per-credit tuition rate for its Master of Education program, which allows students to pay based on the number of courses they take each term. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the published tuition is $485 per credit hour. The M.Ed. requires 32 credits for completion, bringing the base tuition-only cost to $15,520.¹

Students who enroll in the fully online delivery method pay an additional online course fee of $75 per credit hour, resulting in an effective per-credit cost of $560 for online learners. This fee supports the technology and instructional design resources necessary for remote learning. On-campus and hybrid students do not incur the online course fee but are subject to a general student fee: $350 per semester for full-time enrollment or $250 for part-time enrollment, as detailed on Faulkner's student accounts tuition and fees page.

Additional Costs and Total Program Estimate

Beyond tuition and fees, students should budget for books and supplies, which Faulkner estimates at about $1,800 per academic year.² The actual total depends on how quickly you progress through the program. When combining all direct costs (tuition, online fee if applicable, and general fees), Faulkner projects the total direct cost for the online M.Ed. at approximately $17,920.¹ After factoring in textbooks and other incidental expenses, most students can expect a total program cost in the range of $18,000 to $19,500.¹ This figure assumes continuous enrollment and typical course loads. It does not include personal living expenses or indirect costs such as transportation or housing, which will vary by student.

Financial Aid Options

Faulkner University participates in federal financial aid programs, as described on its graduate tuition and financial aid page, making graduate students eligible for:

• Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Graduate students can borrow up to $20,500 per academic year. These loans are not need-based and accrue interest during enrollment, but they offer repayment flexibility.
• TEACH Grant: The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant provides up to $4,000 per year to students who agree to teach in a high-need field at a school serving low-income students. Faulkner participates in this program, and M.Ed. candidates in eligible specializations may qualify. Note that failure to fulfill the service obligation converts the grant to a loan.¹
• Graduate Assistantships: Faulkner offers a limited number of assistantships to graduate students.¹ These positions typically involve research, teaching, or administrative support and provide a stipend and/or tuition reduction. Availability varies by department, so interested applicants should inquire directly with the education faculty.
• Employer Reimbursement and Payment Plans: Many school districts offer tuition assistance for teachers pursuing advanced degrees. Faulkner also provides semester-based payment plans that allow students to spread out their tuition bill without incurring interest.

Private education loans are another option for bridging any remaining gap, but students are encouraged to exhaust federal aid first. To maximize aid, file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible, and Faulkner’s school code is readily available on its website. While institutional scholarships for graduate education students are not widely advertised, the modest overall cost, combined with TEACH Grant or employer support, can make the M.Ed. program an affordable investment in career advancement.

Salary Snapshot: What Faulkner M.ed. Grads Earn

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Admissions: Requirements and Application Process

Applying to Faulkner University’s Master of Education programs involves a clear, straightforward process. Below are the key requirements and steps to complete your application.

• Application Submission

  Submit your application online through Faulkner University’s graduate admissions system. No GRE or MAT is required for most programs.
• Official Transcripts

  Send official transcripts from all colleges attended, showing a conferred bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Recommendations

  Three letters of recommendation from professional or academic references who can speak to your readiness for graduate study.
• Goal Statement

  A 250-word personal statement explaining your interest in the M.Ed. program and career objectives.
• Resume

  A current professional resume is required.
• GPA Minimums

  A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or higher is generally expected; some specializations have specific requirements (e.g., 2.75 for Alternative A Elementary Education).
• Background Screening

  A background check is mandatory for all graduate education students.
• Deadlines & Transfer Credit

  Priority deadlines are August 1 (fall), December 1 (spring), and May 1 (summer). Up to 6 graduate credits may be transferred if approved.

Accreditation and Academic Quality

Faulkner University’s accreditation status is a cornerstone of its academic credibility, directly impacting credit transfer, financial aid eligibility, and teacher licensure. The university holds a long-standing institutional accreditation that covers all degrees and programs, while its education programs benefit from additional specialized approval at the national and state levels.

Institutional Accreditation: SACSCOC

Faulkner University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), a mark it has held continuously since 1971.¹ SACSCOC is recognized by both the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and the U.S. Department of Education,² making it one of the most respected regional accrediting bodies in the country. The most recent reaffirmation occurred in 2019, with the next comprehensive review scheduled for 2029.¹ This accreditation extends to all degree levels (associate, baccalaureate, master’s, and doctorate) and applies to every delivery format, including online and hybrid programs.

Programmatic Accreditation: CAEP and ALSDE Approval

Beyond institutional accreditation, Faulkner’s College of Education has earned programmatic accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). CAEP sets rigorous standards for educator preparation programs, ensuring that graduates are ready to enter the classroom with a strong foundation in both theory and practice. Additionally, Faulkner’s teacher education programs are approved by the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE). This dual layer of approval means that students enrolled in certification-focused programs can pursue Alabama teaching credentials. It is important to note that some graduate offerings, like the Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, are non-certification tracks designed for educators who already hold a teaching license.³

How Accreditation Affects Your Degree

• Credit Transfer: Credits earned at Faulkner are more likely to be recognized by other accredited colleges and universities, simplifying any future credit transfer or advanced study.
• Licensure Eligibility: State-approved programs satisfy Alabama’s academic requirements for certification, though students must still pass required exams and complete other state-specific steps.
• Academic Rigor: Both SACSCOC and CAEP require evidence of program quality, including qualified faculty, relevant curricula, and meaningful student support services.

Financial Aid and Beyond

Institutional accreditation from a U.S. Department of Education-recognized body is a prerequisite for federal financial aid. Faulkner’s SACSCOC status makes its students eligible for Title IV programs, including Pell Grants, federal student loans, and work-study.⁴ This access is critical for graduate students seeking M.Ed. scholarships and balancing work and study.

Career Outcomes and Licensure Pathways

For some educators, the master's degree opens the door to an initial teaching license, while for others it serves as a launchpad into specialized leadership roles outside the traditional classroom. Faulkner University's Master of Education (M.Ed.) programs support both journeys, combining rigorous coursework with clear licensure pathways and career advancement opportunities.

Career Paths for M.Ed. Graduates

The M.Ed. from Faulkner prepares graduates for a variety of roles in education, depending on the chosen specialization. Common career trajectories include:

• Curriculum Specialist: Design and evaluate instructional materials and teaching strategies across a school district.
• Instructional Coach: Work directly with teachers to improve classroom practice and student outcomes through mentoring and professional development.
• School Counselor: Support students' academic, social, and emotional development in K-12 settings, often requiring a specific counseling concentration.
• K-12 Classroom Teacher: Advance from a bachelor's level to a master's level on the salary schedule, often with a Class A teaching certificate.

These roles can be found in public and private schools, district offices, and educational service agencies throughout Alabama and beyond, reflecting the career opportunities available with M.Ed. programs in Alabama.

Licensure Preparation: Alabama Certification and Beyond

Faulkner's College of Education holds accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)¹, ensuring that programs meet high standards for teacher preparation. The M.Ed. programs are designed to lead to the Class A Alabama Teaching Certificate¹, the advanced-level credential for educators in the state.

To earn the certificate, candidates must complete all program requirements and pass the necessary assessments, including the Praxis II content exam and the edTPA performance assessment². A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25 is required², along with a background check². Specific programs may have additional requirements; for example, the M.Ed. in Elementary Education (Alternative A) mandates that the Praxis II Multiple Subjects test be passed before admission.

Earning Potential: Salaries in Alabama and Nationally

Salaries for educators with a master's degree vary by role, location, and experience, as informed by masters in education salary data. Below are typical ranges based on national and Alabama-specific figures:

• K-12 Classroom Teacher with Master's (National): $55,000-$75,000¹
• K-12 Classroom Teacher with Master's (Alabama): $50,000-$60,000¹
• Instructional Coach / Curriculum Specialist (National): $60,000-$85,000¹
• Instructional Specialist / Coach (Alabama): $55,000-$80,000¹
• School Counselor (National): $60,000-$75,000¹
• School Counselor (Alabama): $55,000-$70,000¹

These figures, drawn from the graduate catalog¹, illustrate the value of an advanced degree, though actual pay depends on the district, years of service, and additional certifications.

Out-of-State Students and Reciprocity

Faulkner University is a member of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA)³, which means its online M.Ed. programs can accept students from all 50 states, including California³. Graduates of the programs are eligible to apply for teacher certification in any state, though it is important to note that each state imposes its own specific requirements for licensure, which may include additional exams, coursework, or background checks.

As one example, the M.Ed. in School Counseling program meets Ohio's eligibility requirements⁴ for initial school counselor licensure if the candidate holds an Alabama license or Letter of Eligibility along with satisfactory licensure assessment results. Prospective students living outside Alabama should consult their state's department of education early in the process to confirm any additional steps needed for certification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions about Faulkner University’s Master of Education program. If you need further details, reach out to the admissions team.

Other Faulkner University Schools

1. Arkansas
2. California
3. California
4. California
5. California
6. Colorado
7. Florida
8. Florida
9. Georgia
10. Georgia
11. Illinois
12. Indiana
13. Indiana
14. Indiana
15. Louisiana
16. Nebraska
17. Pennsylvania
18. Pennsylvania
19. Tennessee
20. Texas
21. Texas
22. Washington

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