Master's in Education at Saint Mary's: Programs & Specializations

Deciding to earn a master’s in education forces a practical trade-off: upfront tuition against a salary bump that may take years to materialize. At Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, a private Lasallian Catholic university in Winona, the School of Education tailors its graduate programs to working educators needing that calculation to make sense.

The Master of Arts in Education offers two specializations. Curriculum and Instruction deepens K-12 pedagogy, while Instructional Design and Education Technology prepares graduates for e-learning, corporate training, and higher education roles. Both tracks are available online, on campus, or hybrid to fit full-time careers.

In Minnesota, where most public school districts tie salary schedules to graduate credits, the choice between refining classroom practice and mastering digital learning tools is also a financial one with real earnings implications.

Master of Arts in Education: Curriculum & Instruction Specialization

The Curriculum and Instruction specialization helps K-12 educators deepen their ability to design, implement, and evaluate curricula that meet diverse student needs. Offered as part of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota’s Master of Arts in Education, this track emphasizes practical strategies that can be applied immediately in the classroom. While the specific course sequence evolves to reflect current educational standards, the program consistently focuses on equipping teachers with advanced instructional skills and a thorough understanding of curriculum theory.

Program Focus and Core Competencies

A curriculum and instruction degree typically builds on a teacher’s existing classroom experience by introducing rigorous study in learning psychology, assessment design, culturally responsive teaching, and educational leadership. Saint Mary’s grounds its graduate education in a Lasallian tradition of service and community, which often translates into coursework that encourages collaboration, ethical decision-making, and a commitment to all learners. Candidates can expect to explore topics such as:

• Differentiated instruction strategies for mixed-ability classrooms.
• Standards-aligned unit and lesson planning.
• Data-driven decision-making to improve student outcomes.
• Integration of technology to support curriculum delivery.

Capstone and Applied Learning

Most graduate programs in this field require a culminating project that demonstrates mastery of the specialization. Saint Mary’s often includes a capstone experience, such as an action research project, a professional portfolio, or a curriculum development thesis, that asks candidates to identify a real educational challenge and propose a research-based solution. This applied component ensures that graduates leave not just with new knowledge, but with tangible evidence of their ability to lead curriculum initiatives.

Staying Current with Program Requirements

Because credit totals, course titles, and concentration options can shift from year to year, the most reliable way to map out this specialization is to consult Saint Mary’s official academic catalog. Prospective students should visit the Graduate Programs in Education page on the university website to download the current program guide or contact an admissions advisor. A direct conversation with faculty can also clarify whether the department offers elective clusters in areas like literacy, STEM, or special education, which may complement the Curriculum and Instruction core.

Master of Arts in Education: Instructional Design & Education Technology Specialization

As workplaces and classrooms continue their digital transformation, the need for skilled instructional designers has never been more pronounced.

Program Overview

The 30-credit Master of Arts in Education with an Instructional Design and Education Technology specialization combines 15 credits of core education coursework with 15 credits focused on the design and integration of technology-enhanced learning experiences.¹ The core education component includes six courses that build a foundation in educational theory, research, and leadership, while the five-course technology concentration dives into multimedia development, e-learning design, and the strategic use of digital tools to improve learner outcomes.¹

Career Versatility

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles that extend beyond traditional K-12 settings. In corporate environments, you will be qualified to design onboarding programs, compliance training, and professional development modules. Within higher education, the degree supports positions in instructional design, faculty development, and online program management. For K-12 schools, the program addresses the growing demand for tech coaches and digital learning coordinators who can guide classroom integration and train colleagues on new platforms.

Learning by Doing

No separate practicum is required¹, but the coursework is built around applied, project-based learning. Assignments often mirror real-world scenarios: creating a complete e-learning module, developing a multimedia resource library, or auditing a curriculum for accessibility and engagement. These projects naturally build into a professional portfolio that demonstrates your skills to current or future employers. You will also examine emerging trends such as AI-driven adaptive learning, micro-credentialing, and data-informed instructional decision-making, ensuring you graduate ready to lead rather than merely adapt.

Curriculum & Instruction Vs. Instructional Design & Ed Tech: Program Snapshots

Choosing between the Curriculum & Instruction and Instructional Design & Ed Tech specializations depends on your career goals. Here is how the two programs compare.

Flexible Online and On-Campus Delivery Options

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota delivers its Master of Arts in Education programs through three primary delivery formats: fully online, on-campus, and hybrid.

Delivery Formats

The fully online option allows students to complete all coursework asynchronously via the university's learning management system. There are no required campus visits, making it ideal for working educators across the country. Asynchronous online courses provide 24/7 access to materials, enabling students to log in at their convenience. On-campus courses meet face-to-face at the Winona campus, offering direct interaction with instructors and classmates in a traditional classroom. The hybrid model blends online convenience with periodic on-campus sessions, typically held on weekends or during summer intensives. Hybrid students often complete the majority of coursework online and attend on-campus sessions once or twice per semester, making it manageable for those within driving distance of Winona. The university provides robust technical support and an online orientation to help all students navigate the digital learning environment.

Cohort Structure and Pacing

Saint Mary's emphasizes a cohort model, meaning most M.Ed. students progress through the program with the same group of peers. This structure fosters collaboration, networking, and a supportive learning community. Cohorts start at specific times throughout the year, with intakes in fall, spring, and summer. Full-time students generally enroll in two courses per semester (6 credits) and can complete the 30-credit program in approximately two years. Part-time students typically take one course per term, extending completion to three or four years, which accommodates full-time work schedules. Accelerated options are available by adding summer courses, allowing motivated students to finish in as few as 18 months. Many students appreciate the option to pause enrollment for personal or professional reasons, though it may extend the timeline.

Synchronous Requirements and Residencies

Online courses are designed to be asynchronous, but some instructors may schedule optional live sessions for discussion, Q&A, or group projects. These synchronous meetings are recorded for students who cannot attend. The hybrid and on-campus programs require regular attendance at scheduled class times. Saint Mary's does not require in-person residencies for fully online students, but the hybrid program includes occasional on-campus intensives. These intensives may be weekend workshops or week-long summer institutes that focus on hands-on activities, such as instructional technology labs or curriculum design studios, providing valuable face-to-face engagement.

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid for the M.ed. Programs

Understanding the Cost of Attendance

A clear picture of total expenses helps working educators plan their investment. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota structures its Master of Arts in Education as a per-credit program, keeping costs predictable across the 30 credits required for completion. The 2025-2026 academic year estimates place the per-credit rate at $580, though official university publications for the period are still pending and external sources should be cross-referenced. At that rate, total tuition comes to $17,400 for the degree.

Mandatory Fees and Book Estimates

Beyond tuition, students should account for several university fees that apply to graduate programs. A technology fee of $430 per year supports digital learning platforms, while an activity fee of $190 per year covers student services.¹ Both recur annually over the expected two-year timeline, adding roughly $1,240 in fees. A one-time $200 commencement fee is also typical.¹ For course materials, Saint Mary's estimates book costs around $600 per semester.² Assuming a four-semester schedule (fall and spring each year), books would add approximately $2,400 to the total, though actual spending varies with course selections.

Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities

Graduate students at Saint Mary's may access federal aid, including Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Graduate PLUS Loans, by filing the FAFSA. The university also notes that scholarships may be available through employer partnerships and other institutional channels; prospective students should inquire directly with the financial aid office. Many working educators use employer tuition remission programs, and Saint Mary's coordinates with school districts to facilitate billing. Because personal circumstances differ widely, the net price after aid can be substantially lower than the sticker cost, making Saint Mary's a competitive choice among master's in education programs in Minnesota.

Admission Requirements and Application Process

Applying to the Master of Arts in Education program at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota is straightforward and accessible, with minimal barriers. The university uses a holistic review process that focuses on your academic readiness and professional potential, without requiring standardized tests or extensive written submissions.

Admission Requirements

The core admission criteria are clear and attainable. You must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale.¹ Official transcripts from all previously attended colleges are required to verify your academic background.

Unlike many graduate education programs, Saint Mary's does not require the GRE or any other entrance exam.¹ Letters of recommendation and a personal statement are also not part of the standard application package.² This streamlined approach removes common hurdles, allowing you to focus on preparing your application materials quickly.

For the Custom Specialization track, some additional documentation was previously requested, but as of Fall 2025, the university has eliminated the resume, references, and personal statement requirements, further simplifying the process for all applicants.²

Application Deadlines and Process

Admission operates on a rolling basis, meaning you can submit your application at any time throughout the year.³ There are no firm semester deadlines, and applications are reviewed as they are received. However, it is wise to apply several weeks before your intended start term to allow time for transcript processing and financial aid consideration.

The application itself is completed online through the university's portal.² You will need to provide basic biographic information, your educational history, and arrange for official transcripts to be sent directly to the admissions office. Most applicants receive an admission decision within two to four weeks after all materials are received.

International Student Considerations

If you completed your undergraduate degree outside the United States, Saint Mary's requires a course-by-course transcript evaluation from an approved credential service.⁴ This ensures that your international coursework is accurately compared to US degree standards.

Non-native English speakers must also submit proof of English proficiency. Acceptable scores include a TOEFL iBT of 72, an IELTS band of 6.0, or a Duolingo English Test score of 105. Other approved exams and minimums include iTEP (4.0), PTE Academic (51), EIKEN (Pre-1), and the Manchester Exam (360).⁴ These requirements confirm that you can engage fully with graduate-level coursework in English.

Licensure and Certification Pathways

Not every master's degree in education is designed to lead directly to a teaching license, and recognizing the difference between non-licensure vs licensure tracks early helps you match a program to your career goals.

Curriculum & Instruction: Advanced Study Without a License Endorsement

Saint Mary’s Master of Arts in Education with a Curriculum & Instruction specialization is an academic graduate program. It deepens your understanding of curriculum design, assessment, and instructional leadership, but it does not result in a Minnesota teaching license or a PELSB endorsement.¹ The Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) does not list Curriculum & Instruction as an endorsement category.² If you already hold a standard Minnesota license, this degree can support your professional growth, but it will not add a new endorsement to your credential.

Instructional Design & Ed Tech: Career-Focused, Not Licensure

The Instructional Design & Education Technology specialization similarly falls outside PELSB’s purview. It is not recognized as a licensure or endorsement program by the board.² While some employers value industry certifications in educational technology, Saint Mary’s program does not embed a formal pathway to certifications like the ISTE Certification for Educators. Its design targets roles in corporate training, higher education, and K-12 technology coaching where a teaching license is not required. If your goal is a role that demands a specific state endorsement, this program alone will not satisfy that requirement.

Licensure vs. Non-Licensure: What’s the Difference?

A licensure-track program meets state-mandated requirements for initial licensure or an endorsement. In Minnesota, PELSB approval means the program includes supervised clinical experiences, passing scores on required exams, and often a background check.² Completing a PELSB-approved endorsement, such as the Work-Based Learning (grades 9-12) or K-12 Reading endorsement offered by Minnesota State University-Mankato and other institutions, formally adds that credential to your license.¹³

A non-licensure program offers academic depth without the state-regulated fieldwork and testing. It suits educators who already hold a license and seek career advancement or individuals aiming for roles outside public school teaching. Before enrolling, verify whether your intended path requires a license endorsement. If it does, a PELSB-approved program is the necessary route.

Career Outcomes and Salary Potential

Career outcomes for Master of Arts in Education graduates reflect both the demand for skilled educators and the strong reputation of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. While the university does not yet publish program-level median earnings for the two specializations, available institutional data and industry trends illustrate a clear picture of what graduates can expect.

Earnings Outlook for Curriculum & Instruction Graduates

Graduates of the Curriculum & Instruction specialization typically step into roles such as curriculum coordinator, instructional coach, or academic dean. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that instructional coordinators in Minnesota earn a median salary well above the national average, often ranging from $65,000 to $85,000 depending on district size and experience. Saint Mary’s alumni benefit from a robust professional network and a curriculum aligned with current K-12 standards, which can accelerate career progression and salary growth.

Program-level earnings one and two years after completion are not yet available for this specialization, but broader institutional data shows that Saint Mary’s graduates see a median income of $58,170 across all programs. This figure, combined with the specialized skills gained in the M.A., suggests strong earning potential for those who pursue leadership roles in curriculum design.

Career Paths for Instructional Design & Education Technology

The Instructional Design & Education Technology specialization prepares graduates for roles such as learning experience designer, e-learning specialist, and corporate trainer. These positions are in high demand across both K-12 and corporate sectors, with median salaries typically falling between $70,000 and $90,000, according to national compensation surveys. While Saint Mary’s does not yet report specific earnings for this track, the program’s emphasis on digital learning tools and adult learning theory positions graduates competitively in a rapidly growing field.

Return on Investment and Debt

A key advantage of Saint Mary’s M.A. in Education programs is the strong return on investment. The university reports a program ROI ratio of 2.7, meaning that for every dollar spent on tuition, graduates can expect to earn approximately $2.70 over time. The affordable tuition, $595 per credit, helps keep student debt low. While program-specific median debt figures are not published, the university’s overall median debt for graduate students is $21,500, a manageable amount relative to typical educator salaries. Many students also qualify for scholarships and financial aid, further reducing out-of-pocket costs and enhancing long-term financial outcomes.

Questions to Ask Yourself

How Saint Mary's Compares to Other Minnesota M.ed. Programs

How does Saint Mary's University of Minnesota online Master of Arts in Education compare to other Minnesota graduate programs for working educators? When weighing options like the University of Minnesota, Minnesota State Moorhead, and Hamline University, cost, flexibility, and specialization become deciding factors. Below is a side-by-side look at how Saint Mary's measures up on the details that matter most to teachers advancing their careers.

Tuition and Cost Comparison

Tuition is often the first filter. Saint Mary's online MA in Education carries a per-credit rate of $595 for the 2025-26 academic year.⁶ This positions it competitively among peer institutions:

• University of Minnesota (CEHD): $832 per credit for its M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction, making Saint Mary's notably more affordable.¹
• Hamline University: $614 per credit for its MAEd, a modest difference from Saint Mary's.⁵
• Minnesota State University Moorhead: $562.70 per credit for its MS in Curriculum & Instruction, the lowest in this group.³

Total program cost depends on credit requirements. Saint Mary's requires 30 credits, leading to a total tuition of about $17,850.⁶ University of Minnesota requires 30-34 credits², potentially reaching $28,288 at the high end. Hamline requires 34 credits (approximately $20,876)⁵, while MSU Moorhead's 30-36 credits could total between $16,881 and $20,257.⁴ Saint Mary's sits in a solid middle ground, more affordable than the flagship university and comparable to other private or state options.

Program Structure and Delivery

For working teachers, format flexibility is critical. Saint Mary's MA in Education is delivered 100% online, with no campus visits required.⁶ This contrasts with the mixed online/on-campus model at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities² and the online and hybrid options at MSU Moorhead.⁴ Hamline also offers a fully online MAEd⁵, but Saint Mary's frequently emphasizes a cohort-based model that fosters peer support and networking, a structure not always highlighted by competitors. The cohort approach means students progress through courses together, building a professional community that lasts beyond graduation.

Specializations and Focus Areas

Saint Mary's stands out with two distinct specializations: Curriculum & Instruction and Instructional Design & Education Technology.⁶ While the University of Minnesota and MSU Moorhead offer curriculum and instruction tracks, Saint Mary's instructional design option is less common among Minnesota programs, catering to educators interested in ed tech, corporate training, or curriculum development outside the traditional classroom. Hamline's MAEd allows for customization but does not market a standalone instructional design specialization. For teachers seeking a direct path into technology-enhanced learning design, Saint Mary's fills a niche.

Unique Advantages of Saint Mary's

Beyond numbers, Saint Mary's brings a Lasallian educational tradition that emphasizes ethical leadership, community engagement, and holistic student development. This mission-driven approach resonates with educators who want their graduate study to align with values of social justice and service. Additionally, the program's no-GRE admission policy reduces barriers, and its flexible entry points allow teachers to start at multiple times during the year.⁶ While other schools may offer similar features, the combination of affordability, online convenience, and a values-centered cohort experience gives Saint Mary's a distinctive profile in Minnesota's M.Ed. landscape.

Accreditation and School Credentials

The value of an education degree depends as much on institutional credibility as on specialized program approval, especially when licensure or financial aid is at stake. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota meets the foundational standard through regional accreditation, though prospective students should understand how program-level credentials might affect their specific goals.

Regional Accreditation and Institutional Quality

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and remains in good standing as of 2025-2026.¹ This regional accreditation applies to the entire institution and confirms that the university meets rigorous standards for academic quality, governance, and fiscal responsibility. It is the baseline credential that enables students to access federal financial aid, transfer credits between institutions, and have their degrees recognized by employers and other universities.

Education Program Accreditation: What CAEP Means and Saint Mary’s Status

Unlike many teacher preparation programs, the education programs at Saint Mary’s are not accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).² CAEP accreditation is a specialized marker that signals a program has met national standards for educator preparation. While Saint Mary’s holds separate programmatic accreditations in other fields, such as nursing, social work, business, and psychology, the education unit does not carry CAEP recognition.² This does not diminish the quality of instruction, but it may matter to candidates seeking initial teaching licensure in states that require CAEP-accredited degrees. Current students and applicants should consult their state’s department of education to confirm whether graduation from a non-CAEP program affects the licensure pathway.

Why Accreditation Matters for Your Career and Financing

• Financial aid eligibility: Federal student loans and grants are only available at regionally accredited institutions, so HLC accreditation ensures you can fund your master’s degree through Title IV programs.
• Licensure portability: Many states link reciprocity or direct licensure to CAEP accreditation. If you plan to teach in a state with such requirements, a non-CAEP program could limit your options.
• Employer recognition: School districts and educational organizations increasingly look for degrees from regionally accredited universities, and some prefer candidates from CAEP-accredited programs for certain teaching roles.
• Graduate study and certifications: A master’s from a regionally accredited school typically satisfies the academic prerequisite for post-master’s credentials and doctoral programs, regardless of CAEP status.

Always verify current accreditation status directly with the university and your state licensing board, as standards can evolve.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering the online Master of Arts in Education at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, the answers below address the most common questions about formats, timing, costs, and career impact.

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