Master's in Education at Meredith College: Programs & Specializations

A graduate degree from a large public university promises scale and research prestige. A master's from a small women's college in Raleigh delivers something different: a century of teacher preparation distilled into intimate, cohort-based programs. Meredith College opened in 1891 and has built one of North Carolina's most respected pipelines into K-12 classrooms. Today, its M.Ed. paths in Elementary Education, Special Education, and Academically and Intellectually Gifted (AIG) extend that legacy.

Small cohorts and faculty who know your practice mean course concepts move straight into your own classroom the next day. For working teachers, that immediacy is a practical advantage that large, lecture-driven programs rarely match. In a state with chronic teacher shortages, graduates leave Meredith ready to lead from the day they earn their degree.

Master's in Education Programs at Meredith College

Graduate education programs are increasingly shaped by the growing demand for teachers who can lead inclusive classrooms and support diverse learning needs. Meredith College offers a range of master's-level pathways designed for educators who want to deepen their expertise while advancing their careers.

Specialized Pathways for In-Demand Teaching Roles

Meredith's Master of Education (M.Ed.) program provides focused training for current and aspiring teachers. While the exact list of specializations can evolve from year to year, common areas of study at institutions like Meredith include Special Education, Elementary Education, Gifted Education, and Music Education. Each concentration is built around a core of advanced pedagogical theory, research-based practice, and hands-on classroom application. Program curriculum typically covers assessment strategies, curriculum design, and leadership in educational settings, with credit loads varying by specialization.

How to Confirm Current Program Offerings

Because graduate programs are updated periodically to reflect new state standards and market needs, the most reliable way to see what is currently offered is to visit Meredith College's official graduate programs webpage. There, you can download the academic catalog or use the online program finder to view active M.Ed. specializations. For detailed learning outcomes and course sequences, look for program handbooks or curriculum outlines, often available as PDFs, that break down core requirements and elective options.

What Sets Meredith's Graduate Education Apart

While no two programs are identical, Meredith's approach to graduate education is characterized by small class sizes and close faculty mentorship. The School of Education emphasizes practical field experiences, with practicum and internship placements that let candidates apply new skills in real classrooms. Faculty profiles, usually accessible through the college directory, provide insight into the research interests and teaching philosophies of the instructors you'll work with. To learn about specifics like required field experience hours or distinctive program features, reach out directly to the School of Education via the contact information on their website.

Career Pathways and Professional Guidance

Each M.Ed. specialization opens doors to different career trajectories. A concentration in Special Education can lead to roles as an intervention specialist or resource teacher, while Gifted Education focuses on strategies for advanced learners. Music Education graduates often move into K-12 music instruction or curriculum leadership. For authoritative data on job outlook and salary ranges by teaching field, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is an essential resource. Professional associations, such as the Council for Exceptional Children for Special Education or the National Association for Gifted Children, also offer career guides and industry reports that can help you understand long-term prospects.

M.ed. Specializations and Their Career Focus

Meredith College’s M.Ed. specializations are designed to deepen the expertise of licensed teachers and open doors to advanced instructional and leadership roles in K-12 settings. Each of the three current concentrations, Elementary Education, Special Education, and Academically and Intellectually Gifted (AIG), has a distinct curriculum focus, targeted career path, and practical requirements shaped by local school partnerships. A fourth area, Music Education, is not currently offered as a standalone M.Ed. specialization at the college.

Elementary Education: Leading the K-6 Classroom

The M.Ed. in elementary education emphasizes advanced pedagogy, curriculum design, and teacher leadership for grades K-6. Core coursework covers literacy development, mathematics instruction, classroom assessment, and culturally responsive teaching. Graduates often move into roles as lead teachers, instructional coaches, or curriculum specialists in elementary schools. Because the program requires an initial teaching license for admission¹, this track is an advanced licensure pathway: it does not grant initial certification.² Practicum experiences are embedded within coursework and leverage Meredith’s partnerships with more than 20 area schools¹, allowing candidates to immediately apply strategies in their own classrooms.

Special Education (General Curriculum): Advocating for Diverse Learners

The Special Education (general curriculum) concentration prepares educators to effectively support students with mild to moderate disabilities in inclusive and resource settings. Key courses address behavior management, collaborative consultation, differentiated instruction, and assessment for special education. Clinical practice hours are conditional², often tailored to the candidate’s current teaching assignment, and are completed under the supervision of experienced mentors. Completers are positioned for roles such as special education lead teacher, intervention specialist, or Exceptional Children’s program coordinator, all common outcomes of a masters in special education. Like all Meredith M.Ed. tracks, this is an advanced program for already-licensed teachers¹, though it may lead to add-on licensure in special education depending on North Carolina state requirements.

Academically and Intellectually Gifted (AIG): Nurturing High-Potential Students

A growing need for specialized instruction drives demand for the AIG concentration.³ The curriculum focuses on identifying and serving gifted learners, developing enrichment and acceleration strategies, and fostering critical and creative thinking. Projects and field assignments are frequently integrated into candidates’ existing school sites, providing real-world application. Graduates typically pursue positions as AIG resource teachers, instructional facilitators, or district-level gifted coordinators. The endorsement can also strengthen an educator’s credentials when seeking leadership roles in STEM or arts-focused magnet schools.

Music Education: Not Offered as a Standalone M.Ed. Specialization

While Meredith College has a strong tradition in the arts, Music Education is not available as a discrete M.Ed. concentration at this time.³ Licensed music teachers interested in graduate study may consider related programs at other institutions or explore Meredith’s broader M.Ed. specializations to enhance instructional leadership skills applicable across content areas. Prospective students should contact the graduate admissions office for the most current program offerings.

Across all concentrations, the 30- to 33-credit curriculum¹ is designed to be completed in approximately 30 months¹, with flexibility for working professionals. While most coursework is delivered on campus, some hybrid options may be available, and the close ties to local schools ensure practical, mentored experiences that align with each specialization’s career outcomes.

Online, Hybrid, and On-Campus Flexibility

Meredith College's Master of Education (M.Ed.) program is designed for part-time completion in 30 months, with classes meeting once a week in the evening.¹ This structure allows licensed K-12 teachers to earn a graduate degree while maintaining full-time employment. The program combines in-person evening classes with online and hybrid components, though a fully online track is not currently available.¹

Delivery Modes Designed for Working Teachers

Most courses meet on campus one evening per week, typically 5 p.m. to 7:50 p.m., during the academic year. In the summer, classes intensify to twice weekly to accelerate progress.¹ Hybrid courses blend on-campus sessions with online work, and some courses are offered in a fully online format. However, the degree cannot be completed entirely online.¹ This mix provides the structure of face-to-face learning with the flexibility of remote participation for select topics.

Which Specializations Require In-Person Attendance

All six M.Ed. concentrations (Academically and Intellectually Gifted, Elementary Education, English as a Second Language, Literacy, Special Education, and the Curriculum Instructional Specialist add-on) use this mixed model.³ Since no concentration is fully online, students should expect regular on-campus visits. In the Special Education track, candidates without prior exceptional children teaching experience must complete a practicum requiring 1 to 3 clinical credits, which involves hands-on work in a school setting and cannot be done remotely.³

Typical Completion Timeframes

The 33- to 36-credit-hour program² is paced for part-time students working in K-12 schools. Most finish in 30 months (about 2.5 years).¹ You can take fewer courses per term to extend the timeline; however, an accelerated full-time option is not advertised. Because the program targets practicing teachers, the cohort model and once-per-week meetings make steady progress manageable.¹

Technology for Online Learners

When you enroll in an online or hybrid course, you access Meredith's learning management system for materials, assignments, and discussions. While the college does not specify asynchronous versus synchronous formats for individual courses,³ online course outcomes are designed to be equivalent to on-campus versions.³ Technology support, including help desk services and library access, is available to all graduate students.¹ The program's emphasis on small cohorts ensures personal attention from faculty, even in online settings.

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid for Graduate Education

Meredith College delivers one of the most straightforward and affordable graduate education experiences in North Carolina, with a single per-credit rate that applies equally to in-state and out-of-state students and across all delivery formats.¹

Graduate Tuition and Fees at a Glance

Meredith’s Master of Education (M.Ed.) tuition is a flat $515 per credit hour for the 2025, 2026 academic year.¹ There is no distinction between North Carolina residents and non-residents, and the rate remains the same whether you take courses online, on campus, or in a hybrid arrangement. In addition to tuition, a $100 program fee is charged each semester.² The M.Ed. requires 30 to 36 credits to complete, depending on the specialization.³

Estimated Total Program Cost

Based on the 30-credit minimum, the total tuition cost is $15,450. With the semester fee included, typically spread across four to five semesters, the overall estimated cost comes to approximately $15,950.² If your program requires 36 credits, the tuition portion rises to $18,540, and total costs would be slightly higher. Books, technology fees, and other incidental expenses are not included in this estimate and vary by course load and personal choices.

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Education Students

Meredith offers a dedicated scholarship that reduces the effective per-credit cost significantly. Eligible M.Ed. students can receive an award of $257.50 per credit hour, cutting the tuition rate in half to $257.50.² This scholarship is available to both full-time and part-time students and is applied directly to the student’s account. Beyond institutional aid, graduate students may access federal direct loans by filing the FAFSA, and several external scholarships are available for educators. Meredith’s financial aid office also assists with employer tuition reimbursement documentation and offers a monthly payment plan to spread costs over the term.

How Meredith’s M.Ed. Cost Compares to State Averages

At a net cost of roughly $8,000 to $9,000 (after the per-credit scholarship) for a 30-credit M.Ed., Meredith’s program is competitive with many public university offerings in North Carolina. While in-state tuition at public institutions may appear lower on paper, out-of-state or online tuition at those same schools often exceeds Meredith’s flat rate. For working educators seeking flexibility without a residency surcharge, Meredith offers a predictable and streamlined cost structure that stacks up favorably against state averages.

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Admission Requirements and Application Deadlines

With a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5, Meredith College's M.Ed. program sets a clear academic baseline for admission. The process is designed to be accessible while upholding academic standards, and the graduate admission committee reviews each file holistically.

Academic Prerequisites

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. The degree does not need to be in education, but a valid teaching license is required for admission, as the M.Ed. is designed for practicing educators seeking to deepen their expertise.¹ There are no specific prerequisite coursework requirements beyond the bachelor's degree, making the program accessible to licensed teachers from various undergraduate backgrounds.

Test-Free Admission Policy

Meredith does not require the GRE or any other standardized exam for M.Ed. admission, aligning with a growing number of no-GRE master's in education programs.² The program has moved entirely away from high-stakes test scores, focusing instead on academic record, professional experience, and the personal statement. This policy removes a common barrier for working teachers who may not have recent test preparation time.

Required Application Materials

The application is submitted entirely online through the Meredith College graduate portal. A complete file includes each of the following:

• Official transcripts: From every college or university attended, showing the baccalaureate degree and overall GPA.
• Letters of recommendation: Two letters, ideally from academic instructors or professional supervisors familiar with your teaching ability and potential for graduate study.
• Statement of purpose: A written essay explaining your reasons for pursuing the M.Ed., your career goals, and how the program fits your professional growth.
• Professional resume: Detailing teaching experience, licensure, and any relevant leadership roles or honors.
• Teaching license verification: Proof of current, valid teaching licensure, as the program requires an active license.

No interview is required, though applicants may contact the graduate school with questions.¹

Deadlines and Rolling Review

Meredith uses a rolling admission process,⁴ reviewing completed applications as they arrive and making decisions within a few weeks. However, priority consideration is tied to the final deadlines for each start term:

• Fall entry: July 1¹
• Spring entry: November 1³
• Summer entry: April 1³

Applying well before these dates is encouraged, especially for those seeking financial aid. Late applications may be considered if space remains, but early applicants have the best access to available seats and scholarship opportunities.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Career Paths and Job Opportunities for M.ed. Graduates

Meredith College’s Master of Education degree unlocks a diverse set of masters in education jobs, from classroom leadership to district-level curriculum design, supported by a 98% employment rate¹ and a perfect 100% job placement record for teacher education graduates. These outcomes reflect the program’s deep alignment with school needs across North Carolina and the Southeast.

High-Demand Roles for M.Ed. Graduates

Graduates pursue positions that leverage specialized training from Meredith’s concentrations. Common pathways include: - K-12 Teacher: Many alumni enter or advance in public, private, and charter schools, often in high-need areas like STEM, elementary education, or special education. - Special Education Teacher: With a focus on inclusive practices, graduates support students with diverse learning needs in self-contained, resource, or co-teaching settings. - Instructional Coordinator: These professionals design curriculum, lead teacher training, and evaluate educational materials at the school or district level. - Academically and Intellectually Gifted (AIG) Specialist: Meredith’s dedicated AIG concentration prepares educators to develop enrichment programs and advocate for advanced learners. - Music Educator: For those with a performing arts background, the M.Ed. strengthens pedagogical skills for K-12 music instruction. Additional roles include education specialist, curriculum leader, and corporate trainer, all non-teaching jobs for teachers with master's degree, and even principal¹, as the degree builds leadership capacity that extends beyond traditional classrooms.

Where Meredith Graduates Work

Alumni secure positions throughout North Carolina’s public school districts, Wake County, Charlotte-Mecklenburg, and Guilford County among them, as well as in private and charter networks. New M.Ed. teachers in Wake County, for example, start at a salary of $41,275.¹ Many graduates also find roles across the Southeast, benefiting from Meredith’s strong regional reputation. The program’s flexibility prepares educators for roles in corporate training or nonprofit educational programming when they choose to pivot.

Career Growth and Earnings Outlook

Employment trends for education occupations remain encouraging. Bureau of Labor Statistics projections point to steady demand for teachers, instructional coordinators, and special education specialists. Instructional coordinator roles, in particular, are expected to grow as schools increasingly rely on data-driven curriculum improvements. While entry-level teacher salaries reflect local funding, specialized roles and administrative pathways offer significantly higher earning potential over time.

Leveraging the Meredith Career Network

Meredith’s Office of Career Services provides individualized coaching, resume reviews, and connections to hiring events. The alumnae network is notably active, often opening doors through mentorship and job referrals. Graduates report that this support, combined with the program’s strong practicum placements, makes the transition from degree to career seamless.

How Much Do Meredith M.ed. Graduates Earn After One Year?

One year after completing their degrees, Meredith College M.Ed. graduates see a strong return on their investment. According to the College Scorecard, the median earnings for these graduates is a solid benchmark for new education professionals.

Teaching Licensure in North Carolina and Beyond

In North Carolina, teaching licensure refers to the state-issued credential that authorizes you to work as an educator in public schools. Meredith College's graduate education programs are approved by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction as an Educator Preparation Program¹, meaning they are designed to lead directly to initial or advanced licensure. Whether you pursue a Master of Education (M.Ed.) with an initial license pathway or add endorsements to an existing license, the curriculum and clinical experiences align with state requirements so that you graduate ready to apply for the appropriate North Carolina credential.

North Carolina Licensure Pathways

Meredith offers multiple routes depending on your background. If you hold a bachelor's degree and meet the minimum 2.7 GPA², you can enter the Residency License pathway while completing your M.Ed. This allows you to teach as a full-time teacher of record while finishing coursework. For those seeking a standard license without immediate employment, the program prepares you for the Initial Professional License. After three years of successful teaching experience, you may advance to the Continuing Professional License.

Required Exams for Each Certification Area

North Carolina requires specific teacher certification exams, and Meredith's program aligns its content preparation accordingly. The tests you need depend on your intended teaching area:

• Elementary Education: Pearson General Curriculum and Foundations of Reading exams.
• Middle Grades: Praxis II content exam in your subject area.
• Secondary Education: Praxis II content exam in your subject area.
• Special Education: Praxis II Special Education exam, or the Pearson General Curriculum plus Foundations of Reading exams.

For the Residency License, you must also pass a content area exam or demonstrate 24 semester hours in the subject². Meredith's curriculum integrates preparation for these assessments, and the licensure office helps you register and track your scores.

Licensure Reciprocity for Out-of-State Teaching

North Carolina participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which facilitates license transfer to many other states. If you plan to teach elsewhere after graduation, you can typically apply for a license in the new state through teacher license reciprocity. However, each state sets its own rules, so you may need to complete additional exams or coursework. Meredith's licensure staff can direct you to state-specific information and help you understand the steps, including how to request a licensure verification from North Carolina.

Support from Meredith's Licensure Office

Navigating licensure can be complex, but Meredith's dedicated licensure office provides one-on-one guidance from your first course through license application and beyond. They verify your program completion, assist with exam registration, and walk you through the online application process with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. For graduates moving out of state, they offer resources on NASDTEC reciprocity and endorsement requirements. Meredith also offers unique add-on endorsements, such as the ESL endorsement³ and the online CIS Add-on Program⁴, that expand your teaching credentials without a full degree program.

How Meredith Stacks up Against Other North Carolina Education Programs

Private liberal arts colleges and large public universities offer distinctly different graduate education experiences in North Carolina. Choosing where to earn your M.Ed. often hinges on your priorities, close mentorship and a tight-knit community, or a vast alumni network and lower sticker prices. Meredith College’s approach sits firmly in the first camp, but a direct comparison reveals where it shines and where you might weigh alternatives.

Class Size and Faculty Engagement

Meredith’s 11:1 student-faculty ratio¹ is a defining feature, far lower than what you’ll find at most public institutions. That translates to small seminars, not anonymous lecture halls. Notably, independent data shows that 100% of Meredith’s faculty are full-time, a rarity that means your instructors are deeply invested in teaching rather than juggling research and adjunct contracts. For education students, this mentorship often extends into supervised field placements and personalized licensure guidance.

Cost and Financial Aid Considerations

Sticker price can be a hurdle. Meredith’s total program cost is around $47,278, higher than the national average for baccalaureate colleges of $29,280. However, graduate education programs often have their own tuition rates, and many private colleges in North Carolina fall in a similar range. The key is to compare net price after aid. Meredith’s strong fundraising and endowed scholarships can narrow the gap, but you should request a personalized financial aid estimate and compare it to offers from public competitors like UNC-Chapel Hill or NC State, where in-state tuition is typically lower.

Career Outcomes and Licensure Rates

Here Meredith’s numbers are strong: the M.Ed. program reports a 98% job placement rate, while the Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) hits 100%. For graduates working in Wake County, the median annual wage is about $41,275, which aligns with early-career teacher salaries in the region. As you climb the salary schedule with experience and advanced degrees, those figures rise. When comparing programs, look beyond initial placement to long-term earnings data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for North Carolina and check each school’s educator preparation report card from the state for licensure exam pass rates.

How to Make Your Own Comparison

A few concrete steps can give you a clear picture. First, visit the UNC System and North Carolina Community College System dashboards to see enrollment and completion trends in education programs statewide. Second, search for employer perception surveys from the NC Chamber or professional associations like the North Carolina Association of Educators, these often rank graduates from different schools. Third, pull up each program’s accreditation report (CAEP for teaching) to compare curriculum depth and internship requirements. Finally, use LinkedIn alumni analytics to see where graduates land jobs and what they say about their preparation. Meredith’s small-scale, high-touch model works beautifully for many, but your own career goals should drive the decision.

Frequently Asked Questions About Meredith's M.ed.

Find quick answers to questions prospective students ask most about Meredith College's M.Ed. programs, from costs and delivery formats to career outcomes and licensure.