Master's in Education at Fontbonne University: Programs & Specializations

Fontbonne University’s graduate education programs, grounded in a century-old Catholic intellectual tradition in St. Louis, equip teachers to meet the demands of Missouri’s evolving classrooms. Candidates choose from initial licensure tracks like the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), or advanced study in M.Ed. specializations in Curriculum and Instruction and Early Childhood Education. With tuition structured per credit hour and delivery offered online and on campus, the financial and logistical calculus matters. In Missouri, teachers with a master’s degree often earn significantly more, and Fontbonne’s small cohorts and clinically-rich training make it a pragmatic choice for career advancement.

Fontbonne University Master’s in Education Programs at a Glance

When evaluating graduate education programs, a clear overview of available specializations and key quality indicators helps you focus your search. This overview of Fontbonne's master's in education options highlights what to look for and how to get the most accurate details.

Identify Program Specializations

Fontbonne University has historically offered several graduate education pathways, including a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), programs in early childhood education, and Curriculum and Instruction degrees. Since course offerings and degree titles can change, always verify the current program list on Fontbonne's official website. While specific credit requirements and course sequences are best obtained directly from the institution, many master's in education programs span 30 to 36 credit hours and include core coursework in pedagogy, assessment, and research methods. If you are interested in a particular licensure track, look for whether Fontbonne provides state-approved pathways for initial or additional teaching credentials. Some institutions also offer concentrations in special education, reading specialist, or educational leadership, so inquire whether Fontbonne provides similar focal areas.

Confirm Accreditation Status

M.Ed. accreditation is a critical marker of quality and transferability. Fontbonne University is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. For its education programs, prospective students should check for specialized accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) or recognition by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. These credentials ensure the curriculum meets rigorous professional standards and that your degree will be valued by employers and other graduate schools. Without proper accreditation, graduates may face hurdles in obtaining licensure or transferring credits.

Research Career and Salary Outlook

To assess the return on investment for a master's degree, consult data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS.gov). For example, the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook provides median pay and projected job growth for roles such as instructional coordinators, school principals, and K-12 teachers. Early childhood educators, for instance, see a median annual wage that can be boosted by an advanced degree. Although Fontbonne does not publicly detail program-level salary outcomes, national and state-level data can still help you set realistic expectations. Remember that earnings can vary significantly by role, district, and years of experience.

Contact Admissions for Tailored Guidance

No brochure can replace a direct conversation with Fontbonne's Office of Graduate Admission. Admissions staff can walk you through current tuition rates, fieldwork or practicum requirements, online and hybrid delivery modes, and application deadlines. They can also connect you with faculty or alumni for deeper insights. Initiating that conversation early helps you build a complete picture before you commit.

Online, Hybrid, and On-Campus Options for Working Professionals

How do I know if Fontbonne’s graduate education programs are offered in a format that fits my work schedule and location? The answer begins with a careful review of official program details, because delivery modes can vary significantly even within the same institution. While some graduate education programs may be available fully online, others blend on-campus and online components, and a few require face-to-face attendance for practica or internships.

Check Program Pages on the University Website

Start by visiting Fontbonne University’s official website and navigating to the specific graduate education program you are considering. Each program page typically lists the delivery format (online, hybrid, or on-campus) under sections like “Program Highlights” or “Admissions.” Pay close attention to any mention of synchronous sessions (live virtual classes at set times) versus asynchronous work (self-paced, with recorded lectures and discussion boards). If a program is labeled “online,” confirm whether it includes any required campus visits, such as orientations, immersions, or clinical placements.

Reach Out to the Admissions Office for Clarification

If the website doesn’t fully answer your questions, contact Fontbonne’s admissions office directly. An admissions counselor can explain how classes are scheduled, whether evening or weekend options exist, and what technology you’ll need. Ask specifically about internship or practicum requirements: some M.Ed. tracks in fields like school counseling or reading and literacy may require hands-on experiences in local K-12 settings, which could influence your location decisions. Inquire about any residency components, especially for programs that prepare you for state licensure.

Verify Licensure and Accreditation Requirements

Beyond program delivery, make sure the format aligns with your career goals. Check the licensure requirements for your target role through state education departments or professional organizations. For example, if you’re pursuing a degree that leads to teaching certification or a specialized endorsement, confirm that the online or hybrid model meets all practicum hour and supervision standards. Accreditation status also matters; verify that Fontbonne’s educator preparation programs hold current recognition from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) or another recognized body, as this can affect licensure portability.

Consult the Course Catalog for Detailed Mode Descriptions

Finally, review Fontbonne’s graduate course catalog or student handbook. These documents often include a comprehensive breakdown of delivery modes, including any mandatory on-campus components that may not be obvious from the program page. Look for course descriptions that indicate “meets face-to-face,” “blended,” or “requires synchronous virtual attendance.” If you’re balancing teaching responsibilities with graduate study, understanding the logistical demands upfront can prevent scheduling conflicts and help you plan a manageable path to completion.

What Fontbonne Education Graduates Earn

Admissions Requirements for Fontbonne Graduate Education Programs

Fontbonne University’s graduate education programs have straightforward admission requirements designed to identify committed candidates. Here’s what you need to apply.

• Bachelor’s Degree and GPA

  You must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
• Standardized Tests

  GRE or MAT scores are not required. The education programs follow a test-optional policy.
• Application Materials

  Submit the online application, official transcripts from all institutions, three professional references, a personal statement, and a current résumé or CV.
• Application Fee

  A nonrefundable $50 fee must accompany your application.
• Deadlines

  Admission is rolling, but your application should be complete at least one to two weeks before the term begins.
• English Proficiency (International Students)

  If your native language is not English, provide TOEFL iBT (71), IELTS (6.0), or PTE (48) scores.
• Conditional Admission

  Conditional admission is not available for graduate education programs.

Fontbonne M.ed. Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid Breakdown

Understanding the cost of a master's degree is a critical step in planning your graduate education. For Fontbonne University's M.Ed. programs, tuition is charged on a per-credit basis, and the total investment varies depending on the specific program track and the tuition rate that applies to you. Here, we break down the current costs, fees, and financial aid options to help you budget effectively.

Tuition Rates and Credit Requirements

Fontbonne offers two per-credit tuition rates for graduate education courses. Most students pay the standard rate of $775 per credit hour.² However, some programs or student categories may qualify for a differential rate of $675 per credit.¹ The differential rate is typically for high-demand or partnership programs, so you should confirm your eligibility with the admissions office.

M.Ed. programs at Fontbonne require between 30 and 36 total credit hours, depending on the specialization.¹ The total tuition you pay will scale accordingly. For a typical 30-credit program, the estimated total program cost, including tuition and the mandatory per-credit fee, is $23,250 at the standard rate² and $21,300 at the differential rate.¹ If your program requires more credits, your total will be proportionally higher.

Mandatory Fees and Effective Cost per Credit

In addition to tuition, all graduate students pay a mandatory fee of $35 per credit hour.¹ This fee covers technology, student services, and other institutional resources. When you combine the fee with tuition, the effective per-credit cost becomes $810 for the standard rate and $710 for the differential rate.¹

Other one-time or term-based fees may apply, such as a graduation fee or enrollment deposit. It's important to review the full fee schedule with the bursar's office, but the per-credit charges represent the bulk of your ongoing costs.

Total Estimated Program Cost

Factoring in the mandatory fee, a complete M.Ed. typically costs between $21,300 and $23,250, not including books, supplies, or living expenses. On an annual basis, the university estimates that a full-time graduate student in education will spend about $9,520 on tuition and fees.¹

These figures provide a solid baseline, but financial aid can substantially reduce what you pay out of pocket. For the most up-to-date tuition rates and fee schedules, always consult the Fontbonne University bursar’s office or official catalog.

Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities

Fontbonne offers several avenues to help fund your M.Ed. Merit- and need-based scholarships are available specifically for graduate education students, with awards ranging from $1,000 up to full tuition.³ These scholarships are typically awarded based on academic achievement, professional experience, or specific demographic criteria. The university encourages all prospective students to explore these opportunities during the application process.

In addition to institutional scholarships, you can apply for Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans² by completing the FAFSA. These loans are not need-based and are available to all eligible U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Graduate students can generally borrow up to the full cost of attendance, minus any other financial aid received. Submitting the FAFSA early is advisable, as some aid programs operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

While not detailed in the current materials, graduate assistantships and employer tuition reimbursement programs may also be options. Check with your employer's human resources department and the Fontbonne Office of Financial Aid for the most current opportunities.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Career Prospects and Salary Outcomes for Fontbonne Education Graduates

Program-level earnings data for Fontbonne University education graduates is not yet available through recent federal reporting, but the career paths this degree supports are well established. Graduates from Fontbonne’s Master of Arts in Education programs typically move into roles that shape early childhood, elementary, and special education settings across Missouri and beyond.

Common Career Paths

Fontbonne’s graduate education programs prepare professionals for a variety of masters in education jobs in and beyond the classroom. The most common trajectories include:

• Classroom Teacher: Many graduates remain in the classroom, often moving into lead teacher positions in pre-K through third grade, where the program’s early childhood concentration holds particular weight.
• Curriculum Specialist: The program’s focus on curriculum design and programming positions graduates to develop instructional materials and align educational content with state standards.
• Instructional Coordinator: With advanced training in pedagogy and assessment, alumni frequently step into roles that coach other teachers, implement professional development, and guide school-wide academic strategy.
• Early Childhood Program Director: For those who pursue additional credentials or certificates alongside the M.A.Ed., leadership roles in childcare centers and preschools become attainable.

The degree also serves as a foundation for doctoral study and specialized certifications that open doors in reading intervention, special education leadership, and educational consulting.

Understanding Salary Potential

Because program-specific earnings are not reported, prospective students should look to broader masters in education salary data. Nationally, elementary and secondary school teachers with a master’s degree typically see a salary premium of 10 to 20 percent over their bachelor's-level peers, while instructional coordinators and curriculum specialists often earn median salaries in the range of $60,000 to $75,000, depending on region and experience.

In Missouri, certified teachers with a master’s can expect higher pay scale placement in public school districts, though actual figures vary widely by district and years of service. Fontbonne’s location in Saint Louis connects graduates to a network of urban, suburban, and charter schools, each with their own compensation structures.

Financial Outlook and Debt

Median debt levels and monthly payment figures for Fontbonne education graduates are not currently reported in the federal scorecard. Prospective students are encouraged to contact Fontbonne’s financial aid office to discuss typical loan amounts and repayment scenarios. However, the program’s per-credit tuition and the availability of educator discounts (currently 15%) help keep costs predictable.

Graduates who work in public schools may also qualify for federal loan forgiveness programs such as Teacher Loan Forgiveness or Public Service Loan Forgiveness, which can significantly reduce the long-term financial burden of a graduate degree. When evaluating roi of master's in education, consider both the immediate salary bump and the long-range career stability that a master’s degree in education provides.

Meet the Faculty: Expertise and Research in Fontbonne’s Education Department

Today's education programs require faculty who not only excel in research, but who also understand the day-to-day realities of K-12 classrooms. Fontbonne University's education department brings together experienced scholars and practitioners with expertise in teacher preparation, special education, instructional technology, and interprofessional collaboration.

Leadership in Teacher Preparation

At the helm of the department is Dr. Joanne Fish, who serves as dean/unit leader and education department chair. Her focus is on building robust educator-preparation programs that meet state and national standards. Under her direction, the curriculum aligns with the needs of local school districts, ensuring that Fontbonne graduates enter classrooms ready to lead.¹

Special Education Expertise

The special education faculty includes Dr. Kelley Barger, a professor of education and special education, and Dr. Anthony Borchardt, associate professor and chair of the education and special education department. Both hold advanced degrees: Barger an Ed.D. and Borchardt a Ph.D., and their work shapes coursework in inclusive practices, behavior management, and assessment. Their ongoing involvement with local schools provides students with practical insights into serving diverse learners.²

Integrating Technology and Interprofessional Practice

Cheryl Davis, an adjunct instructor in the Master's in Computer Education program, brings expertise in educational technology. A recipient of the Joan Goostree Stevens Excellence in Teaching Award in 2004, Davis helps educators integrate digital tools effectively into curriculum.³ On the college-wide level, Dr. Gale Rice, professor and dean of the College of Education and Allied Health Professions, champions interprofessional education. Her work connects teacher preparation with communication disorders and other health professions, reflecting a modern, collaborative approach to student support.⁴

A Legacy of Service

While several esteemed faculty have retired, their contributions continue to influence the department's culture. Dr. Donald Paul Burgo, who dedicated 37 years to Fontbonne, received the Founders Award for outstanding service in Catholic higher education.⁵ President Emeritus and Professor of Education Dr. Dennis Golden was honored with the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. State Celebration Commission’s Distinguished Education/Community Service Award in 2011.⁶ These recognitions underscore the faculty's commitment to both academic excellence and community impact.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Fontbonne Education Programs

Here are answers to frequently asked questions about Fontbonne University’s graduate education programs. Learn about available degrees, tuition, admissions, and more. If you have additional questions, contact the university directly.

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