Master's in Education at Florida A&M University: Programs & Specializations

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University consistently ranks among the top public historically Black universities in the nation, a designation built on over 130 years of producing educators for Florida’s classrooms.

Its College of Education channels that legacy into rigorous M.Ed. specializations, from Curriculum & Instruction to Educational Leadership, that are grounded in the realities of urban and diverse schools. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice and culturally sustaining pedagogy, preparing educators to lead in the communities where they are most needed.

In a state where teacher vacancies in core subjects remain persistent, earning a master's from FAMU is a strategic move, not just a career aspiration. Flexible online and on-campus formats make it possible to keep teaching full-time while earning the credential.

M.ed. Specializations at Florida A&M University

Florida A&M University's Master of Education (M.Ed.) programs develop skilled educators prepared to lead in Florida's diverse K-12 schools, aligning with the standards of the best master's in education programs Florida. The College of Education grounds each specialization in a mission to prepare reflective practitioners who can address the complex needs of urban and underserved communities, ensuring graduates are equipped to make an immediate impact in the workforce.

Current M.Ed. Specializations at FAMU

The university's graduate catalog outlines the following programs:¹

• Educational Leadership: This program builds the administrative and instructional leadership skills needed for roles such as assistant principal, principal, or district coordinator. Coursework aligns with Florida Principal Leadership Standards and includes a required internship that partners with local school districts for hands-on experience.
• Curriculum and Instruction: With a concentration in Instruction, Learning and Assessment, this specialization focuses on designing effective curricula, using data to drive instruction, and integrating technology. Graduates often step into curriculum specialist, instructional coach, or lead teacher positions. A deeper exploration follows in the next section.
• Elementary Education: This degree deepens teachers' knowledge of child development, literacy, and STEM instruction at the elementary level. It meets the master's-level certification requirements for Florida teachers and includes a clinical practicum in a partner school.
• Counselor Education: The K-12 Counseling track prepares students for state certification as school counselors. The curriculum emphasizes social-emotional learning, college and career readiness, and crisis intervention, with supervised field placements in area schools.²

Unique Aspects and District Partnerships

Each M.Ed. track incorporates a practicum or internship that leverages FAMU's strong ties with Leon County Schools and other North Florida districts. Many courses are offered in hybrid or evening formats to accommodate working teachers. Additionally, the College of Education maintains partnerships with initiatives like the Florida Center for Reading Research, though FAMU does not currently offer a standalone M.Ed. in Reading Education. Students seeking add-on endorsements in areas like ESOL or reading can often complete those through elective coursework or graduate certificates. The next section takes an in-depth look at the Curriculum and Instruction program and its concentration in Instruction, Learning and Assessment.

Deep Dive: Curriculum & Instruction M.ed. At FAMU

Choosing between the Instruction, Learning and Assessment concentration and the STEM Education concentration sets the tone for your entire graduate experience: one focuses on broad pedagogical strategies, the other on specialized content-area instruction. Florida A&M University’s Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction helps you navigate that choice through five distinct pathways, each grounded in a shared core of advanced teaching theory.

Program Structure and Core Competencies

While the university does not maintain a public online catalog of specific course titles, the master's in curriculum and instruction generally requires between 30 and 36 credit hours of graduate work, as detailed on YMGrad's FAMU program page. The plan of study blends core foundations, such as curriculum theory, instructional design, and educational assessment, with electives that match your chosen concentration. Because the official sequence varies by track, admitted students must obtain the detailed degree plan directly from the Department of Curriculum and Instruction. The program is offered in both online and hybrid formats¹, so working teachers can remain in the classroom while earning their degree on a flexible timeline.

Five Concentrations to Shape Your Expertise

The program’s five specializations allow you to target the student population or teaching field that matters most to your career¹:

• Instruction, Learning and Assessment: Equips educators to design and evaluate curricula across K-12 environments, with an emphasis on data-driven decision-making and adaptive instruction.
• Minority and Urban Education: Addresses the cultural, social, and policy challenges unique to urban school systems, preparing teachers to lead in diverse, high-need settings.
• STEM Education: Develops content-specific strategies for integrating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in P-12 classrooms.
• Music Education: Blends advanced coursework in music pedagogy with the core curriculum and instruction framework, tailored for band, choir, or general music teachers.
• Elementary Education: Focuses on developmental learning, literacy, and interdisciplinary teaching methods for grades K-6.

Each concentration shares the same faculty mentorship and department resources, ensuring a cohesive experience regardless of your chosen path.

Faculty Leadership and Research Focus

The College of Education’s faculty bring deep scholarship to the program. Dr. Sarah Price serves as Dean, while Dr. Warren Hope chairs the Curriculum and Instruction department¹. Dr. Hope’s work centers on curriculum leadership and policy, and he can be reached at [email protected] or (850) 561-2232. Dr. Hassiem Kambui, Associate Professor, contributes expertise in multicultural education and assessment; his contact is [email protected] or (850) 561-2440. Students are encouraged to reach out to these faculty members early to discuss research interests and potential mentorship opportunities.

Field Experiences and Culminating Project

Practical application is woven throughout the program. Although specific practicum hour requirements are not listed publicly, most FAMU M.Ed. tracks embed field-based assignments within coursework or include a standalone clinical experience. The program culminates in a capstone project, commonly a professional portfolio, action research paper, or comprehensive exam², that demonstrates your ability to synthesize theory and practice. Because exact deliverables depend on your concentration, you should confirm the final project format with your advisor once enrolled.

Program Formats: Online, On-Campus, and Hybrid Flexibility

For working educators, the choice often comes down to a trade-off: the flexibility of online coursework versus the richer collaboration of on-campus learning. Florida A&M University addresses this tension head-on by offering its M.Ed. programs through delivery formats that aim to provide both academic rigor and real-world convenience.

Which M.Ed. Formats Does FAMU Offer?

The flagship Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Curriculum & Instruction at FAMU is delivered in a hybrid (blended) format.¹ This means you will split your time between online coursework and periodic in-person sessions on the Tallahassee campus. While not a fully online program, the hybrid structure reduces the frequency of commutes and allows you to maintain your teaching position. For those seeking a completely remote option, FAMU's College of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities does offer fully online master's degrees through its online graduate programs, including the M.S. in Sport Management, demonstrating the university's capability in digital instruction, though no M.Ed. specialization is currently listed as 100% online.

Inside the Hybrid Classroom Experience

The Curriculum & Instruction M.Ed. uses a cohort model¹, meaning you progress through the program with the same group of peers, fostering a tight-knit professional network. Course delivery typically blends asynchronous activities, such as pre-recorded lectures, readings, and discussion boards, with synchronous virtual class meetings held in the evenings. The on-campus components are often scheduled in intensive weekend blocks, minimizing disruption to a full-time work schedule. This design is especially beneficial for educators balancing teaching and a master's degree who want face-to-face mentorship and hands-on learning without relocating or pausing their careers.

Designed for the Working Educator

Every element of FAMU's hybrid M.Ed. is built around the realities of a classroom teacher's life. The cohort intake usually has a fixed start date each academic year, which helps participants plan ahead and secure employer or family support. While part-time pacing is standard, exact course loads per term can often be adjusted with advisor approval. There are no year-round rolling admissions for this program, so planning ahead is essential. For the most current information on upcoming cohort launch dates and any pilot fully online M.Ed. tracks, prospective students should reach out directly to the College of Education or visit the FAMU Graduate School website.

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid for FAMU M.ed. Students

For Florida residents, pursuing an affordable M.Ed. at FAMU comes with a significant financial advantage compared to out-of-state students. Even non-residents, however, find value in the university's strong reputation and outcomes. Understanding the cost breakdown and aid options helps you plan your investment wisely.

Per-Credit Costs for In-State and Out-of-State Graduate Students

FAMU calculates tuition on a per-credit basis for graduate programs. For the 2025-2026 academic year, in-state students pay a total of $405.67 per credit hour.¹ This figure bundles base tuition of $334.13, a student financial aid fee of $16.70, and a small tuition waiver adjustment of -$1.75. Out-of-state students face an additional non-resident fee. Starting in 2026-2027, the non-resident fee is $675.07 per credit, plus a non-resident financial aid fee of $29.35. When combined with the base charges, out-of-state graduate students should anticipate $1,053.50 per credit hour.¹

Estimated Total Program Cost

Most M.Ed. programs at FAMU require between 30 and 36 credit hours. Using the 36-credit model, in-state students can expect a total program cost of approximately $14,604.¹ For out-of-state students, that figure rises to roughly $37,926. These estimates exclude additional course fees or materials, but they offer a clear baseline. Institutional reports validate these numbers. FAMU ranks among the more affordable HBCU graduate schools, with published annual graduate tuition and fees of $9,876 for in-state and $24,669 for out-of-state students based on full-time enrollment.

Financial Aid Options for Education Master's Students

FAMU supports graduate education students through multiple aid pathways:

• TEACH Grant: This federal program offers up to $4,000 per year to students who intend to teach in a high-need field at a low-income school. M.Ed. candidates often qualify, especially in special education master's programs or math specializations.
• Graduate assistantships: Many FAMU education departments provide assistantships that include tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for research or teaching duties.
• Scholarships: The College of Education awards scholarships based on merit and need. Candidates are encouraged to apply early for department-specific funds.
• Federal aid: Completing the FAFSA opens access to unsubsidized Direct Loans and work-study programs. Graduate students may borrow up to the cost of attendance.

Even with published rates, many students reduce their out-of-pocket expense through a combination of these resources. Prospective students should contact FAMU's Office of Financial Aid and the College of Education to explore all eligibility requirements and deadlines.

Our M.Ed. graduates emerge as leaders who elevate student achievement and champion equity, carrying forward FAMU's legacy of excellence in diverse classrooms.

Admissions Requirements and Application Steps

Academic Prerequisites

Applicants to the Master of Education (M.Ed.) programs at Florida A&M University must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. The minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA for admission is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.¹ While the program is designed for certified teachers and education professionals, it does not lead to initial teacher certification.³ Candidates are encouraged to verify their eligibility with the College of Education prior to applying.

Graduate Exam Requirement

FAMU requires official Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores as part of the M.Ed. application.² There is currently no waiver or test-optional policy for the 2026-2027 admissions cycle. Scores must be sent directly from the Educational Testing Service (ETS) using the FAMU institutional code. Scores must be no older than five years.²

Application Steps

All application materials are submitted through the FAMU Graduate School online portal. The process includes the following:

• Online Application: Complete the graduate application form and pay the $30 non-refundable application fee.²
• Transcripts: Request official transcripts from every college or university you have attended. Electronic delivery is preferred; paper transcripts must arrive in sealed envelopes.
• GRE Scores: Arrange for ETS to send your official GRE score report to FAMU. Scores must be no older than five years.²
• Letters of Recommendation: Submit three professional or academic letters of recommendation.³ At least two should come from individuals familiar with your teaching or academic work.
• Personal Statement: Write a personal statement outlining your career goals, reasons for pursuing the M.Ed., and how you plan to contribute to the field of education. The online application includes specific prompts.³

Deadlines and Timelines

For the Fall 2026 semester, the application deadline is May 1, 2026.³ This is a priority deadline, and later submissions may be considered on a space-available basis. Spring and summer term deadlines vary; prospective students should consult the FAMU Graduate School website for the most current dates. Complete applications, including all supporting materials, must be received by the deadline to ensure full consideration.³

FAMU M.ed. Graduates: Strong Earning Potential

While program-level earnings for FAMU's M.Ed. programs are not yet reported, institutional data highlights strong outcomes for FAMU alumni. The median earnings ten years after entry provide a snapshot of the long-term value of a Rattler degree. Curriculum and Instruction graduates often move into roles like instructional coordinator or curriculum specialist, where advanced expertise is rewarded.

Faculty Expertise and Research in Curriculum & Instruction

The field of curriculum and instruction is steadily pivoting toward community-engaged scholarship that centers equity and culturally sustaining practices. At Florida A&M University, that shift is embodied by a core group of faculty whose work bridges classroom teaching, rigorous research, and service to diverse communities.

Meet the Department's Core Faculty

FAMU's Department of Curriculum & Instruction is led by Chair Warren Hope, who can be reached at [email protected] or (850) 561-2232. Associate Professor Hassiem Kambui ([email protected], (850) 561-2440) also anchors the department. Dean Sarah Price ([email protected]) provides college-wide leadership from the College of Education.¹ While the full faculty roster is not publicly posted as a single directory, these three scholars represent the department's primary tenure-track leadership. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the department directly for the most current list of faculty and their research interests.

Scholarship, Grants, and Community Engagement

FAMU's tenure and promotion criteria demand excellence in teaching, research or creative activity, and service.² Post-tenure review specifically evaluates faculty on publications, presentations, grant submissions, grant awards, and supervision of graduate students.³ This framework ensures that curriculum and instruction faculty remain active researchers who contribute to both academic knowledge and local practice. As an HBCU, FAMU often directs this scholarly work toward issues of educational equity, urban schooling, and closing opportunity gaps. Faculty likely pursue externally funded projects and community partnerships, though specific grant titles and amounts are not listed in centralized public sources. To discover a faculty member's current projects, prospective students can search education databases like ERIC or Google Scholar using the names above, or explore professional association member directories such as AERA or NCTE for conference presentations and networks.

Finding Faculty Research and Networks

For a fuller picture of research productivity, note that university-wide, FAMU counted 298 tenured faculty and 88 on tenure track as of Fall 2021.⁴ This infrastructure supports a culture of inquiry that benefits graduate students. The department's program page on the FAMU College of Education site may occasionally highlight recent publications or community initiatives. Direct engagement with faculty, through email, open house events, or graduate orientation, is often the best way to learn about their current research and potential assistantship opportunities.

Why Choose FAMU? Accreditation, Legacy, and Community

FAMU's educator preparation programs combine nationally recognized accreditation with a century-old mission of access and excellence, producing classroom-ready teachers who reflect and serve Florida's diverse communities.

CAEP Accreditation: A Mark of Excellence

The FAMU College of Education holds full accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) through Spring 2032, confirmed during its most recent review in 2025. This gold standard signals that every program meets rigorous, evidence-based benchmarks for candidate knowledge, clinical partnerships, and impact on P-12 learning. FAMU also maintains full approval from the Florida Department of Education for all initial licensure pathways¹, and the university itself is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Together, these credentials assure students that their degree is respected by school districts and licensing boards across the country.

An HBCU Legacy of Equity and Excellence

As the only public historically Black university in Florida, FAMU carries a distinct responsibility to broaden the pipeline of highly qualified educators from all backgrounds. The College of Education lives this mission daily, producing teachers who understand the cultural wealth students bring to the classroom. Initial licensure programs span high-need areas including Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Music, Physical Education, Physics, Social Science, English, Elementary Education, and Pre-K/Primary with embedded ESOL and Reading endorsements¹. This breadth reflects FAMU's commitment to affordable, high-quality education that transforms lives and communities.

Deep Roots in Florida's Schools

FAMU's impact is visible in classrooms throughout the state. The College of Education maintains strong formal partnerships with Leon County Schools and other districts, giving M.Ed. students hands-on field placements and a direct route to employment upon graduation. Alumni often step into leadership roles quickly, supported by an active network of FAMU educators. The university also tracks employment outcomes through CAEP accountability measures, publicly sharing data on program completers and their effectiveness in the classroom¹. This culture of transparency and continuous improvement ensures that every FAMU-prepared teacher enters the workforce ready to make an immediate difference.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Frequently Asked Questions About FAMU's M.ed. Programs

Thinking about pursuing an M.Ed. at Florida A&M University? Below are answers to common questions about financial aid, tuition, admissions, and program structure. Use this guide to get quick, accurate information before you apply.

Other Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Schools

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Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University's M.Ed. programs combine flexible learning formats, affordable tuition, and a deep commitment to equity that defines the nation's top public HBCU. Whether you choose online, on-campus, or hybrid courses, you'll join a community where strong career outcomes and a supportive network of practitioners help you advance.

To get started, visit FAMU's admissions portal to review application deadlines and funding options. Every step you take toward this degree strengthens your ability to lead diverse classrooms and champion educational excellence where it's needed most.