Your Guide to a Master's in Education at University of Dayton

Balancing the cost of graduate tuition against the longer salary arc a master’s degree unlocks is the core calculation for any education professional weighing an advanced credential. The University of Dayton’s School of Education and Health Sciences placed 100% of its 2023-2024 graduates, a statistic that immediately sharpens that cost-benefit analysis. Its M.Ed. program offers three focused tracks: Educational & Teacher Leadership, Higher Education & Adult Education, and Reading & Literacy. Each can be pursued online, on campus, or in a hybrid pattern, letting teachers continue earning while they learn. In Ohio districts where master’s-level pay scales are the norm, the return on that investment often arrives within a few years of program completion.

M.ed. Specializations and Concentrations at the University of Dayton

A Trio of Concentrations in Educational Leadership

The University of Dayton organizes its M.Ed. in Educational Leadership around three focused concentrations. Each one aligns with a distinct career path, allowing students to tailor their graduate work to the communities they want to serve. For the 2026 academic year, two of these concentrations are paused, while one is actively enrolling.

Educational & Teacher Leadership

This concentration is designed for practicing educators who want to lead from positions outside the principal’s office. It emphasizes the use of learning technologies and instructional coaching. Coursework explores leadership theory, educational technology integration, and data-informed decision-making. The program encourages reflective practice and collaborative leadership, pushing candidates to articulate a personal leadership philosophy. Graduates often move into roles such as instructional coach, educational technology coordinator, curriculum specialist, or professional development leader. A distinctive feature is that the technology coursework can fulfill Ohio’s computer technology endorsement requirements, giving graduates an additional, marketable credential.¹ The program is offered online or in a hybrid format to accommodate working educators.² Note that admissions for this concentration are paused as of 2026.³

Higher Education & Adult Education

Geared toward professionals in student affairs, academic advising, career services, and training, this concentration bridges theory and practice in college and adult learning environments. Students examine student development, learning cultures, and instructional design while applying these concepts through a required field experience in their local community. The curriculum is fully online, with multiple start dates each year and both full-time and part-time pacing options.¹ Evening synchronous classes make it feasible for those with daytime work commitments. No teaching license is required for this concentration,¹ opening the door to career changers and higher education practitioners. Typical career outcomes include academic advisor, student activities director, enrollment manager, and corporate trainer. Alumni work in settings ranging from public research universities to small liberal arts colleges to corporate learning and development departments. Like the Educational & Teacher Leadership track, admission to this concentration is currently paused.³

Reading & Literacy

The K-12 Literacy concentration prepares educators to become literacy leaders who can design and implement effective reading instruction for diverse learners, including English language learners and students with reading difficulties. It attracts classroom teachers, reading interventionists, and special educators seeking advanced expertise. Coursework covers foundational reading processes, diagnostic assessment, intervention strategies, and literacy coaching. Graduates are eligible to apply for the Ohio K-12 Reading Endorsement and can also earn a graduate-level TESOL credential.¹ An optional Dyslexia Certificate, accredited by the International Dyslexia Association, adds an extra layer of expertise valued by Ohio school districts.¹ Career paths include reading specialist, literacy coach, interventionist, and district literacy coordinator. This is the one concentration currently open for applications, making it an immediate pathway for teachers looking to specialize in literacy leadership.³

Online, On-Campus, and Hybrid Formats: How UD's M.ed. Programs Are Delivered

The University of Dayton delivers its Master of Education programs through online, on-campus, and hybrid pathways, giving educators the flexibility to balance graduate study with professional and personal commitments. Each format is designed to maintain the rigor and collaborative spirit of a UD education while adapting to the demands of a teaching career.

Flexible Delivery for Working Educators

UD's M.Ed. programs span multiple formats to fit diverse schedules. Online courses are typically asynchronous, allowing students to log in and complete work on their own time within weekly deadlines. This structure serves full-time teachers, instructional coaches, and administrators who need to advance their credentials without leaving the classroom. On-campus courses meet in the evenings or on weekends at UD's Dayton campus, providing face-to-face interaction with faculty and peers. Hybrid models blend the two, combining in-person sessions with online coursework to offer both structure and flexibility.

Programs in curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, and special education often offer multiple delivery options, while other specializations may be available primarily online or on campus. The university's commitment to adaptability means that many students can choose the format that best fits their current job responsibilities and location. Prospective students should review the specific program page for the most current delivery details, as formats can evolve.

Technology and Residency Requirements

For online and hybrid study, UD provides a robust learning management system, typically Isidore, which hosts course materials, discussion boards, and assignment submissions. Students need a reliable computer, high-speed internet, and basic productivity software. Some programs may require a webcam and microphone for virtual class meetings, presentations, or office hours. While online coursework is designed to be fully remote, certain M.Ed. tracks may include brief on-campus residencies, such as a weekend intensive for a leadership seminar or a hands-on workshop for candidates in the master's in reading and literacy program. Admissions counselors can clarify any residency obligations during the application process, and the official program pages outline technology expectations in detail.

Professional Standards and Student Experiences

Online and hybrid teacher preparation programs at UD align with quality standards from organizations like the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). These standards ensure that distance learning maintains the same learning outcomes as traditional on-campus instruction. Current student testimonials and program handbooks, available through UD's online learning resources, offer candid insights into the pacing, instructor responsiveness, and the overall flexibility of each format. Engaging with these real-world accounts can help future students gauge whether the program structure matches their learning style and time constraints.

Ultimately, the choice among online, on-campus, or hybrid depends on personal circumstances, but UD's range of options makes an advanced degree accessible from anywhere in Ohio or beyond.

Admissions Requirements and How to Apply to UD's M.ed. Programs

The University of Dayton’s M.Ed. admissions process is designed to identify educators who demonstrate both academic readiness and a strong commitment to advancing their teaching practice. While specific requirements vary by specialization (note that Teacher Education master’s programs are currently paused⁴), most pathways share a common set of expectations that prioritize real-world experience and clear professional goals.

Core Requirements for All M.Ed. Applicants

• Bachelor’s degree: A completed bachelor’s from an accredited institution, with official transcripts³ from every college or university attended.
• Minimum GPA: Typically a 2.75 cumulative undergraduate GPA, though some programs may consider a lower GPA with additional evidence of potential.
• Resume or CV: A current document highlighting teaching experience, leadership roles, and relevant professional development.
• Letters of recommendation: Usually three letters¹ from academic or professional references who can speak to your ability to succeed in graduate-level education coursework.
• Personal statement: A personal statement¹ outlining your reasons for pursuing an M.Ed., your career objectives, and how the program aligns with your goals.
• Application fee: A $50 nonrefundable fee⁵ submitted with the online application.

International applicants must also provide proof of English proficiency with a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 90⁴, unless they qualify for a waiver based on prior education in an English-medium institution.

Standardized Testing: When Tests Are Required and How to Qualify for a Waiver

Testing requirements are program-dependent. The online Master of Science in Education (MSE) is a no gre masters in education program, meaning it does not require the GRE or any other entrance exam². For the Educational Leadership MSE, the GRE or MAT is typically required, but a waiver is available if your cumulative GPA is 2.75 or higher¹. If you do need to submit scores, the minimum benchmarks for Educational Leadership are a GRE Verbal score of 149, an Analytical Writing score of 4.0, or an MAT raw score of 40 (396 scaled)¹. Always check the specific requirements of your intended program, as policies are updated periodically.

Application Deadlines and Planning Your Start Term

The University of Dayton offers fall, spring, and summer start dates for many M.Ed. programs, though not all specializations admit students every term. For the online MSE program, the application deadline for summer 2026 is June 22, 2026². Other programs may operate on a rolling basis or have priority deadlines. Contact the graduate admissions office or your program coordinator for the most current dates. Given the paused status of Teacher Education master’s degrees⁴, prospective students interested in those areas should verify current availability before applying.

Tips for a Competitive Application

• Leverage your classroom experience: Even a few years of teaching or instructional support can strengthen your personal statement and show readiness for advanced study.
• Be specific in your goals: Admissions committees look for clarity about how the M.Ed. fits into your career path, whether you aim to move into leadership, refine instructional practices, or specialize in curriculum and instruction.
• Choose recommenders wisely: Select individuals who have directly observed your work with students or colleagues, not just those with impressive titles.
• Proofread everything: Attention to detail in your application materials reflects the professionalism expected of graduate students and future education leaders.

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid for UD's Graduate Education Students

For on-campus M.Ed. courses, the University of Dayton charges $745 per credit hour during the 2025-2026 academic year. Online graduate education programs carry a reduced rate of $385 per credit, making them a more affordable option for many students. Because UD is a private institution, these rates apply equally to all students regardless of Ohio residency.¹

Per-Credit Costs and Estimated Total

Most M.Ed. specializations require between 30 and 36 credit hours. Based on 2025-2026 rates, a 30-credit on-campus program totals approximately $22,350 in tuition, while the same program completed online totals about $11,550. A 36-credit program would reach roughly $26,820 on campus or $13,860 online. These figures cover tuition only; students should also budget for additional fees.

Some programs may have unique pricing. For example, the online Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program is listed at $1,435 per credit¹, and the Ed.D. and Ed.S. programs carry different per-credit rates. Always confirm the exact per-credit charge for your intended specialization before applying.

Additional Fees

Beyond tuition, students pay a $50 application fee and modest per-semester fees to support technology infrastructure and student services. Exact fee amounts are updated each academic year, so prospective students should review the latest billing information from the Office of Student Accounts. Audit rates are also available for those who wish to attend courses without seeking credit, at $373 per credit for M.Ed. programs.

Financial Aid Options

All U.S. citizens and eligible noncitizens enrolled in at least three credits per semester may borrow Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans by completing the FAFSA (school code 003127)². However, the Graduate PLUS Loan program will not accept new borrowers after July 1, 2026², limiting borrowing options for students who begin after that date.

UD also offers a limited number of graduate assistantships within the School of Education and Health Sciences. These competitive positions provide tuition remission and a stipend in exchange for work in teaching, research, or administrative roles. University-wide scholarships and outside funding sources may further reduce out-of-pocket costs. Because assistantships and scholarship availability vary, early application and direct communication with the financial aid office are strongly recommended.

Career Outcomes and Salary Potential for UD M.ed. Graduates

Graduates of the University of Dayton's Master's in Education programs enjoy strong career outcomes, with the School of Education and Health Sciences reporting a 100% placement rate for its 2023-2024 graduates.¹ This perfect record means every education student who sought employment after completing their master's degree secured a position, outpacing the university's already impressive 97% overall graduate placement rate for the same period.¹ The class of 2024 saw 95% of all graduates employed or pursuing further study within six months,¹ underscoring the institution's effectiveness in launching careers. For aspiring educators, a graduate degree from UD translates directly into opportunity.

Placement Success and Early Career Trajectories

The 100% placement rate for education graduates¹ is not an anomaly but a reflection of UD's deep integration with Ohio's school districts and a curriculum that aligns with current workforce demands. The broader university picture shows that the mean annual wage for 2023-2024 graduates hovered around $61,798¹, though reported salaries in the prior year fell between $36,000 and $46,000 for early-career roles.² While those figures span all majors, they provide a baseline: education graduates with master's degrees often start on salary schedules that reward advanced credentials, lifting their initial offers above the typical bachelor's-level range. Many teaching and administrative contracts in Ohio include automatic stipends or lane increases for holding a master's, which can add $5,000 to $10,000 to annual pay right from the first contract.

Salary Expectations for Education Roles

Specific salary data for UD M.Ed. alumni is not yet published, but our masters in education salary guide compiles national figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics that paint a clear picture. Instructional coordinators, a common path for curriculum and instruction graduates, earned a median annual salary of about $66,000 in 2023, with the top 10% making over $105,000. Elementary and secondary school principals commanded a median of more than $103,000, and postsecondary education administrators reported medians near $99,000. These roles typically require a master's degree, and experience can push earnings significantly higher. For those entering the classroom, Ohio's average teacher salary sits around $64,000, according to NEA reports, with master's-holding teachers often earning 10-15% more than their bachelor's-level peers. Meanwhile, the American Federation of Teachers' annual salary survey offers granular breakdowns by district, helping candidates anticipate what they might earn in Dayton, Columbus, or Cincinnati.

Employers and Alumni Career Pathways

Dayton's education school has cultivated strong relationships with surrounding districts, and LinkedIn searches for UD M.Ed. alumni reveal a consistent presence in Dayton Public Schools, Kettering City Schools, Centerville City Schools, Beavercreek City Schools, and numerous charter and private institutions. Frequently seen masters in education jobs for UD graduates include Curriculum Specialist, Instructional Designer, Reading Interventionist, Assistant Principal, and Director of Student Services. Beyond K-12, graduates have taken roles in higher education administration, corporate learning and development, and nonprofit educational organizations. While the university does not publish a formal employer list, prospective students exploring careers for masters in education can glean real-time hiring trends by setting up LinkedIn alerts for UD alumni in target roles or by attending one of the school's regular career networking events.

Tapping into UD's Career Services and Alumni Network

The Career Services office, available for walk-ins Monday through Friday from noon to 3 p.m.,² offers resume reviews, mock interviews, and job search strategy sessions tailored to educators. Students and alumni also gain access to Handshake, UD's primary job platform, where school districts and education companies actively recruit. The Flyer alumni network, which spans over 120,000 professionals, provides mentorship touchpoints and referral opportunities that often lead to early-career placements. The School of Education and Health Sciences orchestrates its own career fairs, bringing in regional principals and HR directors who are familiar with the rigor of a UD master's degree.

A Data-Driven Approach to Career Planning

Because salary landscapes shift with district budgets and policy changes, the most current information often sits in public data sets that students can explore directly. The Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook gives median pay and projected growth for dozens of education roles, while the Ohio Department of Education publishes district-level salary scales. Professional associations like the National Education Association and the American Federation of Teachers release annual reports that break down average pay by state and years of experience. LinkedIn remains an underutilized tool: by filtering for University of Dayton M.Ed. alumni and searching by job title, prospective students can map out career trajectories, see common first jobs, and even request informational interviews to learn what it really takes to move from the program into a desired role. Combining UD's institutional support with these external resources creates a comprehensive view of what an M.Ed. from the University of Dayton can deliver, both in immediate job placement and in long-term earning power.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Accreditation and Program Quality at UD's School of Education

Ohio’s Department of Higher Education has approved University of Dayton’s educator preparation programs through fall 2028, confirming that graduates meet all state requirements for teacher licensure. This state-level approval is backed by a robust accreditation foundation, starting with the university’s regional accreditor, the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), which validates the institution’s overall academic standards and financial stability. For its education programs specifically, the University of Dayton School of Education and Health Sciences holds accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), a mark of national accreditation for educator preparation programs. CAEP accreditation signals that UD’s master’s programs meet rigorous, evidence-based standards for curriculum, clinical practice, candidate quality, and program impact.

CAEP Accreditation and Its Significance

CAEP accreditation is not a one-time achievement; it requires continuous improvement and a comprehensive review process. The University of Dayton’s educator preparation programs underwent a successful CAEP review in spring 2024, resulting in full accreditation. For aspiring teachers and school leaders, this accreditation is critical. In Ohio and most states, completion of a CAEP-accredited program streamlines the teacher licensure process because the program’s coursework, field experiences, and assessments align directly with state licensing requirements. Employers, including school districts and educational agencies, recognize CAEP-accredited degrees as a marker of quality, which can enhance a graduate’s competitiveness in the job market. Beyond licensure, CAEP accreditation ensures that a program is accountable for producing effective educators who can positively impact student learning.

Additional Programmatic Accreditations

While CAEP covers the broad spectrum of educator preparation, several specialized programs within the School of Education and Health Sciences carry additional, discipline-specific accreditations. The Counselor Education and Human Services department holds accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). This includes the M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and the M.S.E. in School Counseling, both of which prepare students for state licensure as professional counselors. CACREP accreditation is highly valued in the counseling field and often required for licensure in many states. Similarly, the School Psychology program is accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), ensuring that its curriculum meets the national standards for school psychology practice. These nested accreditations provide an extra layer of quality assurance for students pursuing licensure in mental health and school-based support roles.¹

Faculty, Student Support, and Program Quality

Program quality at UD extends beyond accreditation credentials. The School of Education and Health Sciences employs a faculty of scholars and experienced practitioners who bring research-informed teaching, real-world insights, and mentorship to the graduate classroom. Many faculty members hold terminal degrees in their fields, are actively engaged in educational research, and maintain connections with K-12 schools, counseling centers, and policy organizations. This blend of academic rigor and practical relevance is reflected in student support systems, including dedicated academic advising, licensure guidance, and career services tailored to education professionals.

The 2024 Educator Preparation Provider Performance Report from the Ohio Department of Higher Education offers an external benchmark of program quality.² While specific program-level data on pass rates, employment outcomes, and principal satisfaction are tracked by the state, UD’s overall approval status and compliance with state standards indicate consistent performance. The school’s commitment to maintaining CAEP and specialized accreditations, combined with state approval through fall 2028, underscores a culture of ongoing assessment and refinement. For prospective M.Ed. students, this means enrolling in a program that is not only well-regarded but also actively monitored and updated to meet the evolving demands of the education profession.

University of Dayton Vs. Xavier University: Comparing M.ed. Programs in Ohio

How do the University of Dayton and Xavier University compare in terms of M.Ed. cost, flexibility, and career pathways? Both are well-regarded Catholic institutions in Ohio, and each brings distinct strengths to graduate education. Below we break down the key factors that matter most to working teachers and aspiring school leaders.

Specializations and Program Focus

University of Dayton offers a range of master's in education pathways, with one of the most prominent being the MSE in Educational Leadership. This program has two tracks: a 30-credit non-licensure option¹ and a 39- to 42-credit path² that leads to an Ohio Principal License³. The curriculum emphasizes servant leadership, data-informed decision making, and ethical school improvement. Xavier University also provides graduate education programs, including degrees in educational leadership, curriculum and instruction, and other specialty areas. Both schools design their degrees to align with state licensure requirements and national professional standards. Choosing between them often comes down to which specific concentration aligns more closely with your career goals. Xavier, for instance, has a strong reputation in school counseling and reading education, while Dayton's leadership pathway is particularly streamlined for principal preparation.

Cost and Financial Considerations

Tuition is a driving factor for most prospective students. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the University of Dayton's MSE in Educational Leadership carries a per-credit rate of $790.² The 30-credit non-licensure track totals $23,700,² while the licensure track, at up to 42 credits, can reach $33,180.² Xavier University's graduate education tuition is generally comparable, though specific per-credit rates vary by program. Both schools participate in federal financial aid programs, and many students use employer tuition reimbursement or scholarships. One distinction is that Dayton's online programs often feature a fixed, flat per-credit cost regardless of residency, while Xavier may have separate rates for online and on-campus formats. Always request a detailed cost breakdown before enrolling, and factor in any additional fees for licensure application or practicum experiences.

Delivery Formats and Flexibility

Flexibility is essential for professionals balancing work and study. The University of Dayton delivers its educational leadership MSE in three formats: fully online, face-to-face on campus, and evening classes that accommodate working schedules. Cohorts start in September, January, and May, providing multiple entry points throughout the year.¹ Xavier University likewise offers a mix of online, on-campus, and hybrid formats for its graduate education programs. Both institutions understand that their students are often full-time educators, so courses are scheduled with that in mind. If you value a purely asynchronous online experience, Dayton's online structure might appeal. If you prefer occasional in-person collaboration on a Cincinnati-area campus, Xavier's evening and weekend courses could be a better fit.

Accreditation and Licensure

Both universities hold regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission,³ a prerequisite for quality assurance and federal aid eligibility. The University of Dayton's MSE in Educational Leadership earned specialized accreditation from NCATE (now CAEP),³ a mark of distinction for educator preparation programs. Xavier University's education programs also maintain CAEP accreditation. Licensure is a critical consideration. Dayton's 39-42 credit leadership track leads to the Ohio Principal License,³ and the curriculum is built to meet state standards. Xavier offers similar licensure roadmaps for principal, school counselor, and other roles. If you plan to work in another state, verify with both schools whether their credentials have reciprocity or require additional steps.

Career Outcomes and Alumni Networks

Program-level earnings data are not yet published for either Dayton or Xavier, but both enjoy strong reputations among Ohio school districts. University of Dayton's alumni network includes many superintendents, principals, and instructional leaders across the state. Xavier, located in Cincinnati, has deep ties with urban and suburban districts in the southwestern Ohio region. Where you hope to work may influence your choice: Dayton's reach extends heavily through the Miami Valley and Columbus areas, while Xavier's connections are concentrated in the Cincinnati metro. Attending a school with local name recognition can open doors during job searches, though both institutions produce well-prepared graduates who advance to meaningful roles.

How to Choose Based on Your Priorities

Start by asking what you need most: the lowest total cost, a specific licensure track, a particular concentration, or maximum schedule flexibility. Gather detailed information from each program's admissions office. Compare net price after financial aid, not just sticker price. Talk to current students or alumni about their experiences. If you can, visit both campuses or attend an online information session. You may find that one school's culture and faculty style feel like a stronger match. There is no universal "better" among these two strong Ohio options, only the one that aligns best with your professional goals and life circumstances.

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University of Dayton’s M.Ed. programs deliver a flexible, affordable path for educators seeking career growth. Online courses at $385 per credit make the degree accessible without pausing your career, while on-campus and hybrid options provide the same rigorous preparation. With CAEP-accredited programs, state-approved licensure pathways, and a 100% job placement rate for 2023-2024 graduates, UD backs its promises with results. Ready to take the next step? Explore the specialization that fits your goals, contact an admissions advisor, or start your application today.