Advance Your Education Career at Chestnut Hill College

In Pennsylvania, earning a master's degree often moves teachers from a provisional to a permanent certificate, triggering a pay increase exceeding $10,000 annually. Chestnut Hill College’s M.Ed. programs ground this career advancement in a practical, values-based framework emphasizing reflective practice and personalized mentorship.

The college’s small classes and faculty with real-world K, 12 experience deliver training that meets state certification requirements while encouraging educators to lead from the classroom. For many, the decision hinges on balancing tuition costs against long-term salary gains and selecting a program whose accreditation and local reputation make the investment worthwhile.

An Overview of Chestnut Hill College's Master's in Education Programs

Chestnut Hill College’s Master’s in Education programs combine rigorous academic preparation with the personal mentorship that only a small, student-focused institution can provide. The School of Education is grounded in a mission to develop reflective practitioners who blend academic excellence with a commitment to social justice and community engagement. With a student-faculty ratio of just 10:1, every candidate receives individualized attention that fosters deep professional growth.

A Range of Specializations

The graduate education offerings at Chestnut Hill College span several in-demand fields, allowing you to align your degree with your career goals. You can choose from tracks including Educational & Teacher Leadership, Special Education, Early Childhood Education, and Secondary Education with concentrations in Mathematics or English. The M.Ed. in Early Education is a flagship program requiring 33 credits at $675 per credit, totaling an estimated $22,275 in tuition. It prepares candidates for Pennsylvania certification and includes a student teaching component.

Flexible Delivery for Working Professionals

Chestnut Hill College understands that many educators pursue a master’s degree while managing full-time jobs and family responsibilities. Therefore, the programs offer online, on-campus, and hybrid formats. The Early Childhood M.Ed., for example, is available in a hybrid or fully online structure, enabling you to complete coursework remotely with optional in-person sessions. Many programs feature multiple start dates in fall, spring, and summer, and can be finished in as few as 12 months.

A Foundation of Support and Accreditation

Every M.Ed. path at CHC is backed by the institution’s regional accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, ensuring that your degree meets nationally recognized standards. Small class sizes mean you will work closely with faculty who are experienced practitioners, not just theorists. From the $55 application fee to the clear credit requirements and transparent per-credit tuition, the program is designed to be accessible and straightforward for aspiring and current teachers seeking to advance their credentials.

Specializations and Concentrations: Tailoring Your M.ed.

Today’s education landscape demands teachers who can specialize deeply and lead from any chair. Chestnut Hill College’s M.Ed. programs respond by offering targeted specializations that combine core foundational knowledge with focused training, each designed to advance your career in a specific direction.

A Dual Focus: Educational and Teacher Leadership

The M.Ed. in Educational & Teacher Leadership (30 credits)¹ is built for educators who want to influence school culture and instructional quality without necessarily leaving the classroom. The curriculum blends leadership theory, data-informed decision-making, and strategies for mentoring colleagues and leading professional development. Key topics include instructional supervision and school law. Because the program does not require student teaching, it’s a strong fit for current teachers ready to step into roles like instructional coach, department chair, or curriculum coordinator. All specializations share a 15-credit core: courses such as EDUC 520, EDSP 522, EDSP 530, EDSP 532, and EDSP 535 that ground you in research-based practice and collaborative problem-solving before you dive into your concentration.¹

Deepening Your Impact in Special Education

For educators committed to inclusive practices, the M.Ed. in Special Education (30 credits)¹ provides advanced training in evidence-based interventions, IEP development, and behavioral supports. Coursework covers autism spectrum disorders, assistive technology, and collaboration with families and service providers. A supervised practicum gives you real-world experience. For practicing teachers who already hold a graduate-level course in Special Education Law and Assessment (taken within the last five years), a shorter Bridge Certification pathway (18 credits, hybrid)¹ offers a streamlined route to certification. Graduates pursue roles as special education teachers, case managers, or inclusion specialists across K-12 settings.

Nurturing the Youngest Learners: Early Childhood Education

The 33-credit M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education¹ focuses on the critical birth-to-age-eight developmental window. The program emphasizes early literacy, play-based learning, and authentic assessment, all aligned with Pennsylvania’s early learning standards. Student teaching is a required component,¹ ensuring you have mentored practice before entering the field. Career paths include preschool and kindergarten teacher, early intervention specialist, and childcare center director.

Preparing for the Secondary Classroom: Mathematics and English

Aspiring middle and high school teachers choose between the Mathematics and English tracks within the 30-credit M.Ed. in Secondary Education.¹ Each track includes a specialized methods course: ENGL 517 for English candidates, and a corresponding mathematics pedagogy course that moves beyond generic instructional principles to subject-specific planning and assessment. Fieldwork in diverse school settings builds teaching competence, culminating in a full-time student teaching semester.¹ Graduates are prepared to apply for Pennsylvania Instructional I certification and lead their own classrooms. Across all specializations, the per-credit tuition of $675, as detailed in the graduate education program overview, and flexible pacing (programs typically span 12 to 24 months) let you tailor your schedule to fit your life while you build expertise.

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Program Formats: Online, On-Campus, and Hybrid Options Compared

Chestnut Hill College structures its Master's in Education programs to meet the demands of working educators, providing online, hybrid, and on-campus delivery options. Each format is designed to balance academic rigor with the flexibility busy professionals need, allowing you to advance your teaching career without stepping away from the classroom.

Online M.Ed. Format

The fully online M.Ed. track delivers coursework 100 percent remotely, making it an ideal choice for teachers who need maximum scheduling control.¹ Courses follow a primarily asynchronous model, so you can complete readings and assignments when it fits your week. Weekly live synchronous sessions are woven into the schedule, providing real-time interaction with instructors and peers.² This blend preserves the collaborative feel of a traditional classroom while respecting your existing commitments. All M.Ed. specializations, including Educational Leadership, are confirmed to be available through the online pathway.¹

Hybrid M.Ed. Format

The hybrid model splits your learning experience evenly between face-to-face classroom time and asynchronous online work.¹ In-person sessions take place on campus for hands-on discussion, collaborative projects, and practicum components that benefit from direct engagement.¹ The online portion then allows you to work through content at your own pace, submitting work by set deadlines. This format suits students who want regular campus interaction and a structured in-person component but still need the flexibility that online learning provides. Most or all M.Ed. specializations offer a hybrid option.¹

On-Campus and Flexible Scheduling

Beyond the structured online and hybrid tracks, Chestnut Hill College also maintains traditional on-campus courses. While the program does not publish a separate, full-time on-campus track description, many classes are scheduled in the evenings or on weekends to accommodate working professionals. This means you can attend in person when it fits your schedule, benefiting from direct faculty mentorship and campus resources. Whether you choose purely online, hybrid, or a mix that includes occasional on-campus meetings, the formats are designed to let you build a plan that aligns with your professional and personal life.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Admissions Requirements: What You Need to Apply

Chestnut Hill College, a Catholic school, designs its M.Ed. admissions process to confirm both academic readiness and a commitment to the field, balancing clear standards with multiple entry pathways. Applicants who prepare materials early and align their submissions with program-specific expectations will find a straightforward, well-defined procedure.

Academic Prerequisites

All M.Ed. candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and submit official transcripts. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is expected.¹ Applicants with a GPA between 2.80 and 2.99 may be granted provisional admission, which often includes an academic support plan.¹ In addition, the college requires six credits of undergraduate mathematics and six credits of undergraduate English (or equivalent coursework) to ensure foundational competency.¹

Test Scores and Alternative Credentials

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required for any M.Ed. track.¹ However, students pursuing a Teacher Certification pathway must provide passing PRAXIS I scores or valid proof of teaching certification.¹ International applicants whose first language is not English must submit TOEFL (minimum 79, 80), IELTS (minimum 6.5), or Duolingo English Test (minimum 100) results.³

Application Materials and Process

A complete application includes two letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a résumé, and a writing sample.² All candidates also participate in an interview and an on-site writing assessment.² The M.Ed. in Educational Leadership adds a three-year professional work experience requirement.¹ These components together help faculty evaluate communication skills, professional goals, and readiness for graduate study.

Deadlines and Rolling Review

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, but files must be complete by July 15 for fall enrollment.¹ Submitting early is strongly advised, especially for competitive specializations, to secure a spot and allow time for any follow-up materials.

Tuition and Financial Aid: Investing in Your Education

At $675 per credit for the 2025-2026 academic year, Chestnut Hill College’s graduate education programs carry a transparent and predictable tuition rate. Whether you enroll online or on campus, there is no additional online differential, so every student pays the same per-credit cost. Total credits required range from 18 to 36, depending on the concentration. That puts the total tuition for a master’s degree between $12,150 and $24,300, making it a competitively priced option among private Pennsylvania colleges.¹

Program Cost Breakdown

Beyond tuition, students should budget for several standard fees. A one-time $55 application fee is due when you apply, and an enrollment fee of $250 is charged upon matriculation. Late registration adds $130 and changing your schedule costs $50.² Enrolling in a payment plan incurs an $85 fee.³ If you choose to attend full-time in person, estimated living expenses are $5,874 per semester, plus $700 for books and supplies, $1,197 for transportation, and $3,916 for miscellaneous costs.² These figures are institutional estimates and can vary based on personal spending and housing choices.

Financial Aid Opportunities

Chestnut Hill College helps many students bridge the gap between cost and affordability through a combination of grants, scholarships, and loans.² To apply for most aid, submit the FAFSA as early as possible. The college also offers graduate assistantships in some departments; contact the School of Graduate Studies for current openings.

Planning Your Payment

Flexible payment plans are available through the college, allowing you to spread tuition across monthly installments rather than paying all at once.³ Federal direct unsubsidized loans and Grad PLUS loans can cover remaining balances after grants and scholarships. Because Chestnut Hill College’s education programs are accredited, they typically qualify for employer tuition reimbursement programs, which many Pennsylvania school districts offer. Check with your human resources office to see if your district participates.

Career Paths and Salary Outcomes for CHC Graduates

An M.Ed. from Chestnut Hill College opens doors to fulfilling and financially rewarding careers for masters in education across the education landscape, from classroom teaching to school administration. Graduates are prepared not only to deepen their impact in the classroom but also to step into leadership roles that come with significantly higher earning power.

Career Paths and Typical Employers

Chestnut Hill College M.Ed. completers pursue a variety of roles within the education sector. According to the college, alumni pursue a variety of jobs with a masters in education, including:¹

• Certified Classroom Teacher , Elementary, middle, or high school
• Special Education Teacher , Serving students with diverse learning needs
• Instructional Coach , Mentoring fellow educators and improving curriculum delivery
• School Counselor , Guiding student academic and personal development
• Principal or Assistant Principal , Leading school operations and instructional programs
• Chief Academic Officer , Overseeing curriculum and instruction at the district level

Employment is concentrated in the Philadelphia region, with graduates hired by public school districts, private and independent schools, and charter networks across southeastern Pennsylvania.³

Earning Potential by Role and Experience

Salary data for Pennsylvania highlights the competitive compensation available to educators. Statewide, elementary school teachers earn a mean annual wage of $66,860, while middle school teachers average $67,950 and high school teachers earn $64,830.² These figures represent a baseline for a masters in education salary: educators with a master’s degree typically advance further along district salary schedules, often boosting pay by $5,000 to $15,000 annually compared to bachelor’s-level peers. For those moving into administration, the financial rewards increase dramatically. A Chief Academic Officer in Philadelphia, for example, commands a salary range between $125,000 and $145,000, reflecting the high responsibility and strategic nature of the role.⁴

Federal earnings data specific to recent M.Ed. completers is not yet published, but a broader look at Chestnut Hill College outcomes is encouraging. Ten years after enrollment, the median earnings across all programs is approximately $52,015, signaling a strong return on the educational investment as graduates advance in their careers.

Job Placement and Professional Network

Chestnut Hill College actively supports career development through its career services and extensive alumni network. The College’s long-standing partnerships with regional schools and districts facilitate job connections and clinical placements that often lead to full-time employment. Alumni report securing positions shortly after program completion, leveraging the professional relationships built during their fieldwork and student teaching experiences. The concentration of employment in Philadelphia-area public, private, and charter schools underscores the program’s reputation as a pipeline for qualified, certified educators and administrators.

Salary Insight: Promising Return on Investment

Accreditation: Ensuring Your Degree Holds Value

Understanding Accreditation

Accreditation is an external review that confirms a college meets established quality standards. It affects everything from the credibility of your degree to your ability to transfer credits or qualify for federal financial aid.

Regional Accreditation: The Foundation of Institutional Quality

Chestnut Hill College holds regional accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), one of the most respected accrediting bodies in the U.S. The institution's accreditation was reaffirmed in June 2024, with the next comprehensive self-study evaluation scheduled for 2030-2031.¹ This means the college has demonstrated compliance with rigorous standards in areas such as academic programs, faculty qualifications, student support, and fiscal stability.

Program Approval and Certification Readiness

Beyond the college-wide accreditation, Chestnut Hill's education programs are approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) as an Educator Preparation Provider.² This state-level approval is essential if you plan to teach in Pennsylvania, as it verifies that the curriculum aligns with state certification requirements, a crucial factor when comparing M.Ed. programs by state. Graduates of the M.Ed. or other teacher preparation pathways can pursue Pennsylvania Instructional I or II certifications, as well as specialist endorsements or the Principal credential.²

The college's Montessori Teacher Education Program holds specialized accreditation from the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE), a mark of quality recognized since 1999. This independent accreditation assures that the program meets national standards for Montessori teacher preparation.²

Why Accreditation Matters for Your Career

Accreditation is not just a bureaucratic stamp. It directly impacts your ability to become a licensed teacher and find employment. For Pennsylvania certification, you must complete a PDE-approved program and pass required state exams, such as the Early Education PreK-4 assessments.³ A non-accredited or unapproved program would leave you ineligible for certification, making it nearly impossible to secure a teaching job in public schools. Additionally, many school districts and private employers prefer or require degrees from regionally accredited institutions. Accreditation also ensures that your credits are more likely to transfer, a key part of credit transfer for a nationally accredited M.Ed., if you pursue further graduate study.

Student Experience and Satisfaction

Choosing between a large research university and a small liberal arts college often comes down to the quality of personal interaction. At Chestnut Hill College, satisfaction data shows that a close-knit environment can make a difference.

High Satisfaction Ratings

Graduate programs at Chestnut Hill College earn a 4.7 out of 5 rating from 18 student reviews. In a recent survey, 97% of 33 respondents would recommend the school to others, and 92% report that their degree has improved their career prospects. These numbers suggest that most students feel the investment pays off.

What Students Appreciate

The most consistent theme in student feedback is the quality of faculty support. Reviewers describe professors as approachable mentors who are genuinely invested in student success. Small class sizes reinforce this dynamic, creating an environment where students feel seen and heard. For working educators, flexible scheduling, including evening and online course options, is frequently mentioned as critical for balancing career, family, and graduate study.

Areas for Improvement

While the academic experience receives high marks, some reviews point to facilities that feel dated. This is a common trade-off at smaller, tuition-dependent colleges. A few students wish for more modern classrooms and updated technology, though they often add that the teaching quality more than compensates.