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

Chowan University's Master of Education in Elementary Education is one of the few fully on-campus graduate programs in rural northeastern North Carolina designed explicitly for practicing classroom teachers. The program complements the university's online Master of Arts in Teaching, which offers multiple concentration areas for those seeking initial licensure.

This dual-platform structure enables working educators to advance their credentials without leaving the classroom, but it also requires careful consideration of certification requirements. North Carolina eliminated the automatic master's pay supplement for teachers hired after 2013, so local district incentives become a decisive factor in the return on investment for a graduate degree.

Chowan University's M.ed. Specializations: Find Your Focus

Chowan University offers a single, focused Master of Education (M.Ed.) program in Elementary Education, designed for educators who want to deepen their expertise in teaching young learners.¹ While Chowan also provides Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degrees with concentrations in areas like Curriculum & Instruction, Mathematics, and Science, the M.Ed. route is dedicated exclusively to elementary-level instruction.² This specialization prepares you to excel in K, 6 classrooms through advanced study of child development, literacy, and evidence-based teaching strategies.

A Program Built Around Elementary Education

The M.Ed. in Elementary Education is built for current and aspiring elementary teachers. Whether you already hold a North Carolina Elementary Education (K, 6) license or are seeking initial licensure, the curriculum equips you with the skills to create inclusive, engaging learning environments.¹ Courses delve into topics such as differentiated instruction, classroom management, and assessment, all grounded in a Christian worldview that emphasizes service and ethical leadership.

Credit Hours and Timeline

You need 30 credit hours to earn the degree.¹ Chowan structures the program as a cohort, with a new group starting each fall.¹ Courses are taken sequentially, allowing you to balance graduate study with teaching responsibilities. Most candidates finish in around two years, though your pace may vary depending on transfer credits and personal schedule.

The Cohort Experience

A defining feature of Chowan's M.Ed. is the cohort model. You move through the program with the same group of peers, building a professional network and a supportive learning community.¹ Class sizes remain intentionally small, fostering close mentoring relationships with faculty. The program’s faith-based perspective weaves ethical considerations into every course, preparing you to serve diverse communities with compassion.

Capstone: Portfolio of Learning

Instead of a traditional thesis, you complete a capstone project: a Portfolio or Product of Learning.¹ This culminating assignment lets you showcase your growth by compiling lesson plans, reflective essays, and evidence of student impact. It’s a practical, meaningful way to demonstrate readiness for leadership roles in elementary education.

Licensure and Admission Pathways

The program welcomes candidates at different stages of certification. If you already hold an A-level North Carolina teaching license in Elementary Education, you can jump right into advanced coursework. Those without initial licensure may qualify for provisional admission, allowing you to complete licensure requirements while pursuing your master’s degree.¹ This flexible approach keeps your career goals front and center, whether you aim to become a lead teacher, curriculum specialist, or instructional coach.

Inside the Curriculum & Instruction M.ed. At Chowan

Some graduate programs end with a lengthy research thesis; Chowan University’s M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction takes a more practical route, centering on a Product of Learning portfolio that directly reflects your classroom work. Designed for practicing elementary teachers who already hold an A-Level license³, this 30-credit program builds advanced skills in curriculum design, assessment, and instructional leadership without straying into unrelated electives.

How the Program is Structured

The curriculum is divided into three focused segments. A 12-credit professional core dives into topics like curriculum theory, data-driven instruction, and educational leadership, giving you the foundation to shape classroom and school-wide practices. Another 12-credit specialty area zeros in on elementary education, aligning content and pedagogy with the needs of young learners. The remaining 6 credits are dedicated to the culminating portfolio, where you compile evidence of your professional growth.²

Because there are no elective credits, every course ties directly to licensure advancement. This streamlined structure is especially helpful if you’re balancing full-time teaching with graduate study.

A Portfolio That Reflects Your Classroom

The Product of Learning portfolio replaces a traditional capstone or thesis. You’ll collect lesson plans, student work samples, assessment data, and reflective narratives that demonstrate your ability to improve curriculum and instruction. Faculty mentors guide you through the process, helping you connect assignments to the North Carolina Professional Teaching Standards. This hands-on approach means you graduate not just with a degree, but with a tangible showcase of your expertise.

Aligning with North Carolina Licensure

Chowan’s program is specifically designed to move you from an A-Level to an M-Level Elementary Education license. Coursework integrates preparation for state-required assessments, including the edTPA performance-based evaluation⁴. If you’re still finishing your initial license requirements, provisional admission may be available, but full admission requires an A-Level license³. Upon completion, you’ll be positioned to meet advanced licensure expectations and take on greater leadership roles in elementary schools.

Understanding the Cost of Your M.ed.

The total cost of a Master of Education at Chowan University includes several components. The largest expense is tuition, with fees and books adding to the overall investment.

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid at Chowan University

Investing in a master's degree is a balancing act between immediate cost and long-term career payoff, and Chowan University aims to make that calculus more manageable. The total price tag depends on your program, pace, and the financial resources you bring to the table, but a clear picture of tuition, fees, and aid can help you plan with confidence.

Tuition and Mandatory Fees

Chowan’s graduate teacher education programs charge a flat per-credit rate of $560¹, whether you study online or on campus and regardless of your state residency. A typical M.Ed. curriculum, like the Curriculum & Instruction track, requires 30 credits, bringing the estimated tuition to $16,800. On top of tuition, students should budget for mandatory fees each semester; exact amounts vary by enrollment status and delivery mode, so contacting the Financial Aid Office at 252-398-6535 or [email protected]¹ is the surest way to pin down your bottom line.

Financial Aid Options

Most graduate students rely on federal loans to bridge the gap. Chowan participates in the Direct Unsubsidized Loan program, offering up to $20,500 per academic year², and the Grad PLUS Loan, which can cover remaining costs up to the full cost of attendance³. For those intending to teach in high-need fields at low-income schools, the TEACH Grant provides between $3,706 and $4,000 annually (with a 3.25 GPA requirement)³, though it converts to a loan if service obligations aren’t met. Teacher loan forgiveness programs may also reduce debt after qualifying years of service.

Chowan offers several institutional awards. Alumni accepted into a graduate program can receive a $1,000 Graduate Award⁴ (not combined with other Chowan aid). Full-time employees and their spouses may qualify for a 15% tuition discount after 12 months of service⁴. Additionally, select graduate assistantships provide tuition grants, and sometimes housing and meals, during fall and spring semesters⁵.

Net Price and Affordability

Financial aid can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses for graduate students, especially when combining federal, state, and institutional resources.

How Chowan Stacks Up

Among North Carolina graduate education programs, Chowan’s per-credit rate is competitive for a private institution offering fully online flexibility. Public universities in the UNC system often charge lower in-state tuition, sometimes under $300 per credit, but may lack the intimate cohort size and personalized support Chowan emphasizes. For out-of-state students, Chowan’s flat rate can actually be a bargain compared to public schools that charge non-resident surcharges, making it a viable option for educators seeking an affordable M.Ed. without geographic constraints.

The Earning Potential of a Chowan M.ed.

While program-specific earnings data one year after graduation is not yet available, Chowan University graduates are prepared for rewarding careers in education.

Flexible Learning: Online and On-Campus M.ed. Options

Chowan University structures its graduate education programs to accommodate both aspiring teachers and working professionals through two distinct delivery formats: a fully online Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) and an on-campus Master of Education in Elementary Education (M.Ed.). The choice between them hinges on your need for schedule flexibility and your proximity to the Murfreesboro campus.

Online Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)

The MAT is designed primarily for those seeking initial licensure and is delivered entirely online. Coursework is asynchronous, meaning you log in and complete readings, assignments, and discussions on your own schedule each week. This approach lets working teachers balance graduate study with classroom and personal commitments. No more than 25 percent of the program involves synchronous or face-to-face elements, and any live online sessions are recorded so you never miss content³. Specializations include Elementary Education and Secondary Education with concentrations in Social Studies, Mathematics, English, or Comprehensive Science. Because the program is fully remote, there are no required campus visits; you can complete all requirements, including clinical practice, in approved schools near you.

On-Campus M.Ed. in Elementary Education

If you prefer in-person learning and are able to attend classes in Murfreesboro, the M.Ed. in Elementary Education offers a traditional on-ground experience. The program requires 30 credit hours and on-campus presence throughout the entire academic term. While some hybrid or live-cast formats may occasionally be used to supplement instruction, they do not replace the regular on-campus requirement⁴. This structure provides direct, real-time interaction with faculty and peers, along with access to campus facilities and hands-on classroom experiences.

Comparing the Student Experience

Both online and on-campus students receive support from the Department of Teacher Education, but the nature of that support differs. Online learners can expect virtual advising, remote library access, and online tutoring resources. On-campus students benefit from immediate, face-to-face mentoring, campus events, and in-person collaboration. It is important to note that combining one online course with one live-cast course does not satisfy full-time enrollment requirements⁴, so plan your schedule carefully if you intend to enroll full time. Regardless of format, Chowan aims to prepare you for North Carolina teacher certification through a coherent, standards-aligned curriculum.

Admissions: Your Step-By-Step Guide to Chowan's M.ed.

Chowan University’s M.Ed. in Elementary Education uses a rolling admissions process, but you must submit all materials at least 90 days before the start of your intended semester. Below are the key requirements.

• Application and Fee

  Complete the online or paper application and pay the $50 non-refundable fee. International applicants must also submit TOEFL scores.
• Official Transcripts

  Submit transcripts from all colleges attended, showing a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75.
• Standardized Tests

  Provide official GRE or MAT scores. There is no waiver available for this requirement.
• Letters of Recommendation

  Three professional recommendations are required, ideally from individuals familiar with your academic or teaching abilities.
• Statement of Purpose and Resume

  Write a two-page personal statement outlining your goals and experience, and include a current resume.
• Teaching Licensure

  You must hold a North Carolina ‘A’ level teaching license or have an application for licensure on file.
• Deadlines

  Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, but all materials must be received at least 90 days before the semester begins (fall, spring, or summer).

Teacher Certification in North Carolina: Your Path Through Chowan

How do you turn a Chowan University Master of Education into a North Carolina teaching license?

The Chowan University M.Ed. programs are specifically designed to align with the requirements of the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI). Whether you are seeking initial licensure or aiming to upgrade an existing license, Chowan's curriculum integrates the coursework, clinical experiences, and exam preparation, including the required teacher certification exams, to meet state standards.

Earning Your Initial License

For those entering teaching for the first time, the path to an Initial Professional License (IPL) through Chowan involves several key milestones. The IPL is valid for 36 months and is non-renewable², serving as a bridge to the continuing license.

• Praxis II content exam: You must pass the Praxis II test specific to your content area.¹ Chowan's program weaves preparation into core courses so you build the knowledge tested.
• edTPA or alternative assessment: As part of demonstrating readiness, you complete a performance assessment like edTPA during your clinical practice, which is embedded in Chowan's student teaching semester.
• Student teaching internship: A full-time field placement under a mentor teacher gives you hands-on classroom experience. Chowan's Office of Field Experiences coordinates placements in partner schools.
• Background check and online application: After final clearance through the state's criminal background check, you submit your application directly to NCDPI via the online educator licensure system.⁵

Upon meeting these requirements, Chowan's Department of Teacher Education recommends you for the IPL, and you can begin your teaching career.

Moving from Initial to Continuing License

Already-licensed teachers pursuing the M.Ed. at Chowan can use the degree to qualify for the Continuing Professional License (CPL). The CPL is the standard renewable license in North Carolina. To earn it, you must complete three years of teaching experience on the IPL³ and fulfill any remaining advanced preparation. Chowan's M.Ed. specializations count directly toward that advanced preparation, streamlining the upgrade process for practicing educators.

Teaching Outside North Carolina? Chowan's Support for Reciprocity

North Carolina holds teacher license reciprocity agreements with 45 other states¹, which means your Chowan M.Ed. can open doors nationally. Chowan's Teacher Education team helps out-of-state students navigate the specific requirements of their home states, and some candidates may qualify for the 12-month Residency Licensure⁴ when transitioning into North Carolina classrooms. This cohort-based support ensures you understand every step, from transcript evaluation to Praxis score transfer.

How Do You Move From Chowan's M.ed. To Your North Carolina Teaching License?

Earning your North Carolina teaching license through Chowan University's M.Ed. program follows a clear sequence. Each stage builds on the last to ensure you meet state requirements for initial licensure. Here's what the path looks like from enrollment to your own classroom.

Career Outcomes: What Chowan M.ed. Graduates Achieve

A master's degree in education from Chowan University opens doors to advanced roles in curriculum development, school leadership, and instructional coaching. While the university does not publicly report specific job placement rates for its M.Ed. program, the degree aligns with careers that the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects will grow over the next decade, reflecting the ongoing demand for specialized educators in K-12 and adult learning settings.

Career Pathways for M.Ed. Graduates

Graduates of Chowan's Master of Education program typically pursue masters in education jobs such as curriculum and instruction specialist, instructional coordinator, lead teacher, or assistant principal. These roles extend beyond the classroom, with a focus on designing educational programs, mentoring peers, or driving school improvement. In North Carolina, advanced teaching roles and administrative certifications often lead to salary schedule increases and greater job stability.

How to Research Salary and Job Outlook

National data sources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provide general masters in education salary data and employment projections for education-related occupations. However, local factors heavily influence pay and opportunity. For the most relevant information, consult the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction's salary schedules and administrative certification requirements, which will give you a clear view of the earning potential tied to a master's degree in the state.

Direct outreach to Chowan University's career services office or education department can also be invaluable. These offices sometimes track informal placement data or maintain lists of school districts that actively recruit Chowan graduates, even if that information is not published online.

Connecting with Alumni and Employers

Platforms like LinkedIn allow you to search for Chowan University alumni who have completed the M.Ed. and see where they work now. This kind of real-world exploration can reveal career trajectories that range from district-level curriculum leadership to non-teaching careers for M.Ed. graduates. Additionally, attending virtual or in-person education career fairs hosted by Chowan can put you directly in touch with hiring principals and HR officers from regional districts.

Related Articles

Accreditation: A Stamp of Quality for Your Education Degree

Accreditation is the benchmark of quality in higher education, and Chowan University's education programs are built on a solid foundation of recognized quality assurance. When you invest in a master's degree, you need confidence that your credential will be valued by employers, accepted for licensure, and eligible for financial aid. Chowan meets these standards through both institutional and program-level approvals.

Institutional Accreditation: A Longstanding Commitment

Chowan University has been continuously accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) since 1956, a mark of institutional integrity that spans more than 70 years.¹ The university's accreditation was most recently reaffirmed in December 2019, following a comprehensive review of its academic programs, faculty qualifications, student services, and financial stability.² The next reaffirmation is scheduled for December 2029, with an interim report due in March 2024.² This ongoing cycle of external review ensures that Chowan maintains high standards and adapts to changing educational landscapes.

Program-Level Approval: Meeting Licensure Standards

For educators, institutional accreditation is just the starting point. Teacher preparation programs must also meet state-specific standards to qualify graduates for licensure. Chowan University's Teacher Education Program is fully approved by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI).³ This approval confirms that the curriculum, field experiences, and assessments align with the competencies required for North Carolina teaching licenses. While the program does not currently hold accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)¹, its state approval is the essential credential for anyone planning to teach in North Carolina public schools, and it often satisfies reciprocity requirements in other states.

Why Accreditation Matters for Your Career

Choosing an accredited and state-approved program directly impacts your career trajectory. From day one, it ensures your degree qualifies you for the teaching license you need. It also signals to school districts that you have completed a rigorous, vetted program. Additionally, accreditation is a prerequisite for federal financial aid, including federal student loans and grants, which many graduate students rely on. Employers, particularly public school systems, verify that your preparation program was approved by the relevant state education agency, making Chowan's NCDPI approval a non-negotiable asset.

What Sets Chowan University Apart

Today's graduate education prizes programs that weave scholarly depth into authentic classroom practice. Chowan University in Murfreesboro, North Carolina, has spent more than 175 years refining just that model. Its M.A.T. and M.Ed. programs distinguish themselves through a blend of intentional community, faith-inspired purpose, and hands-on training.

Small Class Sizes and Personalized Attention

With a student-faculty ratio of 15:1, Chowan ensures graduate candidates are known by name. Instruction is not a lecture hall transaction; faculty mentors guide each teacher-candidate through lesson design, classroom management, and edTPA preparation in an atmosphere of constant feedback.

Christian Mission and Whole-Person Formation

Chowan’s Christian heritage infuses its educator-preparation philosophy. Candidates are challenged to consider the ethical and relational dimensions of teaching, fostering classrooms where dignity and respect are central. This mission-driven approach appeals to educators who want their career to reflect deeper values.

Deep Roots in Local Schools

The university has forged strong partnerships with districts across northeastern North Carolina. Clinical placements and internships happen early and consistently, giving candidates immersive experience with the region’s diverse learners. These collaborations often lead directly to job offers upon licensure.

A Historic Campus with a Future-Focused Agenda

Established in 1848, Chowan carries a legacy of service to rural and underserved communities. Today, that commitment translates into affordable tuition, generous financial aid, and a curriculum that directly responds to the staffing needs of local school systems. Graduates leave ready to make an immediate impact.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chowan's M.ed.

Prospective students often have practical questions about Chowan University's Master of Education programs. Below are answers to common inquiries; for the most current details, always check the official Chowan University M.Ed. page or contact graduate admissions directly.