Advance Your Career with Drake University’s Master’s in Education

Drake University has anchored Iowa teacher preparation for more than a century, graduating thousands of educators now leading classrooms statewide. Its Master's in Education programs span over a dozen specializations, from curriculum and instruction to educational leadership, serving licensed teachers and career changers.

For many educators, the calculus involves balancing program cost and delivery format against the need for immediate, job-embedded skills. Drake addresses this by offering identical tuition for online and on-campus courses and structuring pathways that align with Iowa’s endorsement framework.

In a state where a master’s degree can boost a teacher’s salary by 38%, choosing a specialization in special education or instructional coaching can compound that return.

Drake University School of Education: Specializations and Degree Options

Drake University’s School of Education structures its graduate offerings around distinct career pathways, with master’s degrees designed for licensed teachers advancing into leadership, career changers entering the classroom, and experienced educators deepening subject-area expertise. Programs combine theory with embedded field experiences, and many align directly with Iowa endorsement requirements.

Leadership and Instructional Coaching Programs

• MSE in Educational Leadership (PK-12): A cohort-based, hybrid program for licensed K-12 teachers who want to become principals or building-level leaders. Coursework emphasizes school improvement, data-driven decision making, and instructional supervision. Graduates qualify for the Iowa Principal Endorsement.
• MSE in Instructional Leadership & Teaching Practices: Built for experienced PK-12 teachers aiming for roles like instructional coach, a path often pursued through a teacher leadership degree. The curriculum focuses on mentoring peers, leading professional development, and strengthening classroom practice without leaving the classroom.
• MSE in Effective Teaching: Delivered 100% online, this degree helps practicing teachers refine their craft. Students can add endorsement coursework in reading or ESL, making it a flexible option for those balancing full-time teaching with graduate study.¹
• MSE in Culturally Responsive Leadership and Instruction (BLUE): Developed in partnership with Des Moines Public Schools, this 32-credit program prepares educators to lead equity-centered change. Employees of DMPS receive discounted tuition, and the coursework addresses culturally sustaining pedagogy, community engagement, and anti-racist leadership.

Initial Licensure Programs for Career Changers

• MA in Teaching (Secondary Certification): For individuals with a non-education bachelor’s degree who want to teach at the middle or high school level. The program blends graduate-level content pedagogy with a full-time student teaching internship and leads to an Iowa initial teaching license.³
• MS in Teaching (Elementary Certification): Designed for career changers targeting grades K-6. Coursework spans literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies methods, paired with clinical experiences that meet Iowa licensure requirements.³

Specialized Expertise Programs

• MSE in Special Education: Aligned with Iowa’s Instructional Strategist endorsements,² this degree prepares teachers to serve students with disabilities in inclusive and specialized settings. Field-based projects and case studies ground the curriculum in real classroom challenges.
• MSE in Literacy Education: Educators can pair this degree with optional endorsements in K-8 Reading, 5-12 Reading, or K-12 Reading Specialist. The program examines evidence-based literacy instruction, assessment, and intervention.³
• MSE in STEM Education: The only master’s degree of its kind in Iowa³, this program supports K-12 teachers in integrating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through inquiry-based learning and design thinking.

Unique Program Features and Faculty Expertise

Many graduate education programs prioritize independent study and theoretical coursework, but Drake University's School of Education blends immersive cohort experiences, applied research, and mentorship from day one.

Faculty Experts Driving Innovation

With over 70 faculty members, the School of Education faculty includes leaders like Dean Ryan Wise, who shapes state and national education policy. Dr. Claire Muselman, Co-Director of the Master of Science in Leadership Development, brings expertise in leadership, business strategy, and organizational behavior, bridging education with real-world management. Dr. Molly Shepard, Assistant Professor of Practice, integrates human resources and organizational behavior into teacher and leader preparation. Faculty don't just teach, they actively publish and partner with schools, ensuring coursework stays relevant.

CAEP Accreditation: A Mark of Excellence

Drake's education programs hold CAEP accreditation¹, the gold standard for educator preparation in 2026. This rigorous, national review ensures that curriculum, clinical experiences, and candidate outcomes meet high benchmarks. For you, that means a degree recognized across states and more seamless licensure reciprocity.

Cohort Models and Hands-On Practice

Drake designs many programs around collaborative cohorts. The Ed.D. in Leadership, for example, follows a weekend-intensive hybrid format with a capstone project, so you learn alongside peers while working full-time. The Teacher Intern Program accelerates entry for career-changers: with a bachelor's and three years of work experience, you can fast-track into the classroom.² And a new joint JD+Ed.D./Ph.D. pathway launching Fall 2026 merges law and education leadership for systemic change.²

Real-World Partnerships and Research

The National Rehabilitation Institute, housed within the School of Education, drives community-based research and training. Deep ties with Des Moines Public Schools feed year-long residencies, action research, and policy projects.³ These connections turn theory into immediate impact.

Online, On-Campus, and Hybrid Delivery Formats

Choosing a delivery format means weighing the convenience of online learning against the immediate collaboration and networking opportunities of on-campus courses. For working educators, the right balance often hinges on whether a program can accommodate a full-time teaching schedule without sacrificing the quality of peer and faculty interaction.

Finding the Most Current Delivery Format for Your Program

Each Drake University M.Ed. specialization may differ in how it is offered. Visit the official Drake University website and navigate to the specific program page for your intended concentration. The College of Education updates these pages regularly to reflect current online, on-campus, and hybrid options. If the published information does not answer all your questions, contact the admissions office directly. Admissions coordinators can clarify whether a program is fully online, requires occasional campus visits, or follows a hybrid model with both asynchronous and synchronous components. Professional associations related to your specialization, such as the Council for Exceptional Children or the International Literacy Association, sometimes list accredited programs and may note delivery formats, though university sites remain the authoritative source. This direct outreach is the most reliable way to avoid assumptions that could affect your planning.

Flexibility for Working Professionals: Part-Time, Asynchronous, and Synchronous Options

Many graduate programs in education are designed with in-service teachers in mind. Online and hybrid M.Ed. tracks often include part-time enrollment paths, allowing you to take one or two courses per term while balancing teaching and grad school. Asynchronous classes let you complete coursework on your own schedule, which is invaluable if your school day includes after-hours duties. Synchronous sessions, if required, are typically scheduled in the evenings or on weekends to accommodate working professionals. When you contact Drake, ask for a sample course schedule and the typical weekly time commitment so you can plan realistically.

Technology and In-Person Requirements: What to Expect

Online and hybrid programs at most universities rely on a learning management system (LMS) to deliver lectures, discussions, and assignments. You will need a reliable computer and high-speed internet. Some courses may also require webcams or microphones for virtual meetings. Even in primarily online programs, certain specializations, particularly those leading to licensure or endorsements, may include required in-person components, such as supervised field experiences, practicums, or student teaching. Clarify these requirements early, as they could influence your choice of format. While the Bureau of Labor Statistics offers general career outlook data for education roles, the most precise information about program delivery and any face-to-face obligations will come from Drake’s College of Education directly.

Tuition and Total Cost Breakdown for Drake's M.ed. Programs

Many graduate programs charge a premium for online courses, but Drake University keeps tuition for its Master's in Education consistent between on-campus and online students. This straightforward billing structure makes it easier to budget for your degree, whether you plan to study from home or in a classroom in Des Moines.

Per-Credit Tuition and Total Program Estimate

Drake currently bills graduate education courses at $565 per credit hour for the 2026-2027 academic year.¹ A typical Master of Science in Education (MSE) track requires 30 credits, bringing the total tuition to $16,950 before fees.¹ This flat rate applies equally to all specializations within the School of Education, so you can plan with confidence regardless of which endorsement path you choose, such as a curriculum and instruction degree.

Some programs, such as the Master of Science in Educational Leadership, may be structured differently in length or cost, but the per-credit rate remains the baseline for every education graduate course. If you enroll part-time, you simply multiply your credits each semester by $565 to estimate your immediate expense.

Additional Fees to Expect

Beyond per-credit tuition, Drake assesses mandatory fees that cover services and support throughout your enrollment. For the 2025-2026 year, these fees ranged from $250 to $400 annually.² While the exact breakdown can shift yearly, common charges include:

• Technology fee: Ensures access to the learning management system, online libraries, and technical help.
• Course materials: Some classes may require a separate materials or lab fee, particularly for hands-on practicum experiences.
• Graduation fee: A one-time charge when you apply for degree conferral.

These fees are the same for online and on-campus students. Always review the current year's student budget on the Drake website for the most recent fee schedule before finalizing your financial plan.

Online vs. On-Campus Cost Parity

Drake does not impose a surcharge for remote learning. Whether you attend a synchronous Zoom session, watch recorded lectures, or sit in a physical lecture hall, your per-credit cost remains $565. This parity extends to fees as well, so your location or preferred modality doesn't inflate your bottom line.

The only potential variance arises from personal expenses: commuting, parking, or relocating to Des Moines are costs unique to on-campus students, while online learners may need to budget for reliable high-speed internet and a capable computer. Drake's financial aid office can help you incorporate these personal estimates into your overall budgeting worksheet.

For most full-time students, the total investment (tuition plus fees) lands close to $17,200 for the full degree, placing it among affordable online M.Ed. programs. Part-time paths allow you to spread this cost over additional semesters, often aligning with employer tuition reimbursement schedules.

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Education Graduate Students

Graduate financial aid covers the strategies and funding sources you use to pay for your Master's in Education beyond personal savings, including federal aid, state-specific incentives, employer benefits, and departmental support. At Drake University, education graduate students combine multiple resources to manage costs effectively, even though institution-wide scholarships are limited at the master's level.²

Federal Aid and the TEACH Grant

Federal Direct Stafford Loans are available to eligible graduate students, offering fixed interest rates and flexible repayment options. More notably, Drake participates in the federal Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant program, which provides up to $4,000 per year to students who commit to teaching in a high-need field at a low-income school for at least four years.¹ If the service obligation is not met, the grant converts to an unsubsidized loan, so you must understand M.Ed. program service obligations before accepting.¹

Departmental Assistantships and External Scholarships

While Drake does not award general institutional scholarships to graduate students, the School of Education may offer department-specific assistantships. These positions often include a stipend and tuition remission in exchange for research or teaching support.¹ Contact the education program office directly for availability. External scholarships from professional organizations like Phi Delta Kappa or the American Association of University Women can also offset costs, though you will need to search and apply for M.Ed. scholarships independently.

Iowa-Specific Teacher Incentives

Iowa’s state grant programs, such as the Iowa Tuition Grant and Future Ready Iowa Grant, primarily target undergraduate students.⁴ However, graduate students can explore the Iowa Teacher Shortage Loan Forgiveness Program, which repays loans for educators in designated shortage areas. The Golden Apple Scholars program, while more prominent in other states, may have Iowa-based extensions; check with the Iowa Department of Education for the most current teacher recruitment incentives.

Employer Reimbursement and Partnerships

Many school districts and educational employers offer tuition reimbursement benefits for practicing teachers pursuing advanced degrees. Drake often works with local districts to facilitate these arrangements, allowing you to submit grades or receipts for refunds. If you are currently employed in education, ask your human resources department about available reimbursement and whether Drake participates in any direct-billing partnerships that defer your out-of-pocket costs.

Maximizing Your Aid Eligibility

Start by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using Drake’s code 001860.³ The priority deadline for the 2026-27 academic year is March 1, 2026, and filing early maximizes access to limited funds. Complete the FAFSA each year, even if you think you will not qualify for need-based aid, because it is required for federal loans and TEACH Grant consideration. Combine assistantship earnings, employer support, and federal aid to build a package that reduces borrowing.

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Questions to Ask Yourself

Admissions Requirements for Drake M.ed. Programs

Understanding Drake University's admission requirements is the first step toward securing your place in a competitive graduate education program. While specific criteria vary by specialization and delivery format, all applicants must submit a comprehensive application package that demonstrates academic readiness, professional experience, and a commitment to the field.

Where to Find Program-Specific Requirements

Start your research on the Drake University School of Education website. Each Master's in Education program page outlines the minimum GPA expectations, any required standardized test scores, and prerequisite coursework or certifications. Some programs set a baseline undergraduate GPA, while others emphasize holistic review of experience. Read the fine print carefully: some specializations may require a current teaching license or a set number of years in the classroom.

Direct Contact with Graduate Admissions

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, reach out to the Drake University graduate admissions office directly. Admissions counselors can clarify upcoming application deadlines, which often differ between spring, summer, and fall starts. They will provide a checklist of required materials, which typically includes a statement of purpose, two to three letters of recommendation, a current resume or CV, and official transcripts from every institution attended. Do not rely solely on third-party summaries; speaking with a representative ensures you have the latest version of any application form, fee, and interview protocol.

Licensing Considerations in Iowa

If your M.Ed. program leads to an initial teaching license or an additional endorsement, you must also satisfy requirements set by the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners. These may include specific undergraduate coursework, background checks, and passing scores on state-mandated exams. Contact the BOEE early to understand prerequisites, especially if you are entering a program for license advancement. Some Drake programs offer streamlined pathways that align with state standards, but it is your responsibility to confirm eligibility.

Guidance from Professional Associations

The American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) offers resources on typical M.Ed. admissions expectations nationwide. While not a substitute for Drake's specific policies, AACTE publications can help you understand common application components and competitive applicant profiles. Use this context to strengthen your personal statement and select recommenders who can speak to your teaching potential.

Career Outcomes and Salary Potential With a Drake M.ed.

Career outcomes for a Master's in Education go beyond a salary bump, they reflect expanded roles, specialized expertise, and long-term professional mobility. Drake University's M.Ed. programs prepare graduates for in-demand positions that shape instruction, curriculum, and school leadership, both in Iowa and nationally.

Typical Career Paths and Earning Potential

Graduates of Drake's M.Ed. programs commonly step into roles such as instructional coach, curriculum specialist, reading specialist, department chair, and educational consultant. These positions blend advanced pedagogical skills with strategic planning, and salaries reflect that elevated responsibility², consistent with masters in education salary trends.

• Instructional Coach: National salaries range from $60,000 to $80,000; in Iowa, the range is $50,000 to $70,000.
• Curriculum Specialist: National salaries range from $60,000 to $85,000; in Iowa, from $55,000 to $75,000.
• Reading Specialist: National salaries range from $55,000 to $75,000; in Iowa, from $50,000 to $70,000.
• Department Chair: National salaries range from $60,000 to $90,000; in Iowa, from $50,000 to $70,000.
• Educational Consultant: National salaries range from $65,000 to $90,000; in Iowa, from $60,000 to $85,000.

For those who move into administration, principal and assistant principal roles offer even higher earning tiers. Principals in Iowa earn $95,000 to $120,000, with national ranges up to $140,000. Assistant principals in Iowa earn $80,000 to $100,000.

Strong Placement and Earnings Data

Drake's School of Education reports a 98% job placement rate for graduates¹, reflecting the program's alignment with school needs. Long-term earnings data from the university's educational leadership program shows median earnings of approximately $71,900 ten years after entry³, substantially above the typical Iowa salary for educators without an advanced degree. While program-level earnings for all M.Ed. tracks are not yet published, these figures indicate a clear upward trajectory for master's-prepared teachers in the region.

Return on Investment

With annual tuition of about $12,825 for the educational leadership program, Drake's M.Ed. delivers a notable return. The program's earnings-to-cost ratio, calculated at over 3:1³, means that for every dollar invested in tuition, graduates see roughly triple in long-term earnings gains. Even for other M.Ed. tracks, where total costs may vary, the salary increases typical of specialist and leadership roles far outpace the initial investment, making Drake a financially sound choice for career growth.

A Network That Opens Doors

Drake's reach within Iowa education is significant: 70% of the state's school districts employ Drake-trained administrators³. This network, combined with the program's cohort-based structure, provides graduates with professional connections that support career mobility and mentorship long after commencement.

Licensure and Endorsement Pathways in Iowa

For Iowa teachers deciding how to advance their credentials, the path often splits between adding an endorsement to an existing license and earning an initial teaching license with a built-in endorsement. Drake University offers several master’s-level programs that lead directly to specific Iowa endorsements.¹ as well as a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) for those seeking their first license.

Endorsement-Area Programs at Drake

Drake’s Master of Science in Education (M.S.E.) specializations align with four key endorsement areas. The M.S.E. in Literacy Education, a reading and literacy degree, prepares candidates for the K-8 Reading endorsement² through intensive coursework in literacy instruction and a supervised literacy practicum. The M.S.E. in Special Education leads to the Instructional Strategist I: Mild & Moderate (K-8) endorsement³, with required field experiences embedded in settings serving students with disabilities. For educators working with multilingual learners, the M.S.E. in ESL/ELL provides the K-12 English as a Second Language endorsement.¹ The M.S.E. in Educational Leadership leads to the PK-12 Principal or PK-12 Special Education Supervisor endorsement⁴ after completing structured clinical and administrative practica. Additionally, the M.S.E. in Teacher Effectiveness & Professional Development allows practicing teachers to customize their program and incorporate coursework leading to a reading specialist certification, ESL, or Special Education endorsement.⁵ For those pursuing initial teacher certification, Drake’s MAT (Secondary) program includes a secondary content endorsement (English, Math, Science, or Social Studies) with optional pathways to add ESL or Reading endorsements.⁶

The Endorsement Process

Iowa requires educators to complete a state-approved endorsement program and receive an institutional recommendation.⁷ Drake’s approved programs fulfill this first step. Candidates finish all required coursework and practicum experiences; Drake then verifies completion and submits the recommendation to the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners. Iowa does not require a universal exam for in-state completers of endorsement programs⁷, though individual programs may have their own assessment requirements. Each program’s practicum is tailored to the endorsement area, from supervised literacy assessment and intervention in the Reading Specialist program to field-based administrative hours in Educational Leadership.

Licensure Renewal and Professional Growth

Graduate credits earned through these endorsement programs also satisfy Iowa’s professional development requirements for license renewal, letting teachers maintain active credentials while adding new qualifications. State licensure rules remain stable at this time, with no immediate changes affecting endorsement pathways.

Endorsements and Out-Of-State Reciprocity

Will my Iowa teaching endorsement transfer to another state?

Educators who earn their M.Ed. and Iowa endorsement through Drake University often plan to teach beyond Iowa’s borders. While each state sets its own licensing rules, several pathways exist to help you navigate teaching licensure requirements and determine what additional steps may be required.

Checking Reciprocity Through NASDTEC

The National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) maintains an interstate agreement that many states participate in. This agreement streamlines the transfer of teaching credentials by outlining which components of your license or endorsement are recognized elsewhere. Visit nasdtec.org to search the database for the state you are targeting. Keep in mind that even under the agreement, states may still require you to complete specific coursework, assessments, or background checks.

Contacting the Target State’s Education Department

Because reciprocity policies can change from year to year, the most reliable next step is to contact the education agency in the state where you plan to teach. For example, educators moving to Illinois would check with the Illinois State Board of Education, while those bound for Missouri should consult the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Ask directly about the process for out-of-state endorsement holders, any teacher certification exams, and timelines for securing a full professional license.

Iowa Board of Educational Examiners Resources

The Iowa Board of Educational Examiners (BOEE) website provides up-to-date information on reciprocity, including links to licensing authorities in neighboring states. Review the “Out-of-State Applicants” section for guidance on how your Iowa endorsement is viewed by other jurisdictions. This can help you identify common requirements and prepare the documentation you’ll need.

Additional Resources for License Portability

Beyond state agencies, general mapping tools like the U.S. Department of Education’s certification map can offer a broad overview of license portability. Professional organizations such as the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) also publish resources that track policy changes and interstate agreements. While you should always verify details with the target state, these sources can give you a head start in understanding where your Drake University credential can take you.

Other Drake University Schools

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3. Indiana
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7. Louisiana
8. Maryland
9. New York
10. Pennsylvania
11. Pennsylvania
12. Texas
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