Master's in Education at King's College: Programs, Costs & Outcomes

In Pennsylvania, a master's degree is a prerequisite for the Level II Instructional Certificate, yet the greatest career mobility goes to teachers who move beyond a generalist graduate program into high-need specializations. King's College in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, structures its Master of Education around this reality, offering three distinct pathways: Curriculum and Instruction, Special Education, and Reading and Literacy.

The program is designed for working teachers, with online, on-campus, and hybrid sections that fit into full-time teaching schedules. Graduates enter a market where specialized M.Ed. credentials can translate into positions like reading specialist or special education supervisor, roles that districts across the commonwealth are increasingly struggling to fill.

King’s College M.ed. Programs at a Glance

The K-12 landscape continues to shift under the weight of new technologies, evolving student needs, and heightened accountability standards, making advanced training more essential than ever for classroom teachers. Against that backdrop, King’s College in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, has designed its Master of Education programs to equip educators with the practical skills and theoretical grounding they need to lead in today’s classrooms.

Mission-Aligned Graduate Training

The School of Education at King’s College centers its work on a clear mission: preparing reflective, ethical, and effective educators who can meet the diverse needs of all learners. The M.Ed. programs translate that mission into coursework that blends research-based practices with real-world application, particularly in high-demand areas like curriculum design, special education, and literacy. The college holds CAEP accreditation, a nationally recognized marker of quality that signals a commitment to rigorous preparation and continuous improvement.

Built for Working Educators

All M.Ed. specializations at King’s College are structured to accommodate the schedules of practicing teachers. Students may attend part-time or full-time, and every track offers an online delivery option. This consistency across programs removes the need to choose between flexibility and specialization. Online courses use the same curriculum and are taught by the same faculty as their on-campus counterparts, so working professionals can advance their credentials without pausing their careers or relocating.

Personalized Learning Environment

King’s College intentionally keeps class sizes small, typically capping graduate courses well below what students might encounter at larger research universities like the University of Florida. This creates space for mentoring relationships with faculty who bring significant K-12 experience and active scholarship to their instruction. Students often cite the accessibility of professors and the collegial atmosphere as distinguishing features that make the graduate experience feel supportive rather than transactional.

M.ed. Specializations: Curriculum & Instruction, Special Education, and Reading & Literacy

King's College designs its M.Ed. specializations to turn classroom practitioners into subject-matter leaders, with distinct pathways in curriculum design, special education, and literacy coaching. Each track deepens pedagogical expertise and opens doors to advanced roles inside and beyond the classroom.

Curriculum & Instruction: From Lesson Planning to Systemic Leadership

This track is built for teachers who want to shape what and how students learn at a school-wide level. Core coursework typically covers learning theory, assessment design, instructional technology, and curriculum mapping. Candidates learn to evaluate data, align instruction to standards, and lead professional development. The ideal candidate is a classroom teacher ready to step into a department chair, instructional coach, or curriculum coordinator role. Graduates often move into positions such as curriculum director, instructional designer, or academic dean.

Special Education: Advocacy and Expertise for Diverse Learners

With chronic shortages in special education across Pennsylvania, this master's in special education specialization addresses both the legal and pedagogical demands of the field. Courses explore inclusive practices, behavior intervention, IEP development, and special education law. The program prepares educators to differentiate instruction for students with disabilities and to serve as a resource for colleagues. Typical candidates are general education teachers seeking a special education add-on certification or special educators aiming for a master's credential through accredited special education master's programs. Career paths include special education teacher, intervention specialist, or district-level special education coordinator.

Reading & Literacy: Building Expert Coaches and Interventionists

This pathway targets the science of reading and its practical application. Coursework focuses on literacy assessment, evidence-based intervention strategies, and coaching techniques. Candidates often complete a practicum that leads to Pennsylvania's Reading Specialist certification, a credential that qualifies them to diagnose reading difficulties and lead school-wide literacy programs. The ideal learner is a classroom teacher passionate about reading instruction who wants to become a reading specialist, literacy coach, or Title I coordinator.

While King's College does not report median earnings separately for each specialization, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth for instructional coordinators and special education teachers nationally. Reading specialists, often employed as literacy coaches, are in high demand as schools adopt structured literacy initiatives. A master's degree typically yields a significant pay bump on K-12 salary schedules, making the investment in specialization a practical step for career-minded educators.

Online Vs. On-Campus M.ed. At King's College

King's College delivers its M.Ed. programs online, on campus, and in hybrid formats, so working teachers can pick an option that aligns with their daily commitments. While on-campus study offers structured schedules and direct campus resources, online learning provides unmatched flexibility. The hybrid model blends the best of both, giving students control over when and how they engage.

Admission Requirements for King's College M.ed.

A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is required for admission to King's College Master of Education (M.Ed.) programs. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and submit a complete application online at no cost. The admissions committee evaluates candidates holistically, weighing academic history, professional experience, and personal motivations alongside the required materials.

Academic Prerequisites

• Bachelor's Degree: A Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science from a regionally accredited institution is mandatory.
• Minimum GPA: A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is expected. Applicants with slightly lower GPAs may still be considered if other application components are strong, but there is no formal waiver process.
• Transcripts: Official transcripts from every college or university attended must be sent directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions.

Application Materials

The application requires the following components, all submitted through the online portal: - Personal Statement: A written essay explaining your interest in the M.Ed., your career goals, and how the program aligns with your professional aspirations. - Resume/CV: A current document detailing professional experience, especially any work in education or related fields. - Letters of Recommendation: Two letters are required. Ideally, one should come from an academic reference and one from a professional supervisor, though both can be professional if you are no longer in an academic setting. - Application Fee: There is no fee to apply, making the initial step accessible to all prospective students.

Test-Optional Policy

King's College does not require GRE or Praxis scores for M.Ed. admission. The test-optional policy reflects the program's focus on your overall profile rather than a single standardized test result. Applicants may still submit scores if they believe the scores strengthen their candidacy, but they are not penalized for not doing so.

Teaching Certification Considerations

The admission process differentiates between degree-only and certification tracks. A current teaching license is required for those pursuing M.Ed. specializations that lead to additional certifications, such as Reading Specialist or Special Education. For tracks like Curriculum and Instruction that do not lead to a new state credential, a teaching license is not a prerequisite. Contact the program coordinator if you are unsure whether your intended path requires a license.

Additional Requirements for International Students

Non-native English speakers must demonstrate English proficiency through a standardized test such as the TOEFL or IELTS. Official score reports should be sent directly to the graduate admissions office. Minimum score thresholds are determined by the program and are available upon request.

Holistic Review Process

Meeting the baseline requirements does not guarantee admission. The admissions committee reviews each file holistically, considering the entire application package. Factors such as relevant work experience, the strength of recommendations, and the clarity of purpose in the personal statement can offset minor weaknesses in GPA or other areas. The goal is to enroll a cohort of dedicated educators who will contribute meaningfully to the learning community.

Prospective students are encouraged to reach out to the graduate admissions team with any questions about eligibility or to schedule a pre-application advising session. The online application portal opens well ahead of each term's deadline, and early submission is recommended to allow time for processing and review.

King's College M.ed. Tuition and Fees Breakdown

King's College charges $506 per credit for graduate education courses. The M.Ed. program requires 30 to 36 credits, bringing total tuition between $15,180 and $18,216. Additional fees for technology and student services are not itemized in the published rate but may apply.

Questions to Ask Yourself

How Long Does It Take? King's College M.ed. Program Length and Pacing

The time it takes to earn your Master of Education at King's College depends primarily on your enrollment status and which specialization you choose. Most students are working teachers who study part-time, and the program is built around that reality: a structured, cohort-based schedule that moves you through the degree at a steady but manageable pace.

Typical Part-Time Pace

King's College organizes the M.Ed. coursework into 8-week sessions within fall, spring, and summer terms.² A typical part-time load is two courses in fall, two in spring, and one in summer. At that rhythm, a student in the 30-credit Curriculum and Instruction track finishes in about two years. The 33-credit Reading specialization also fits this timeline with just one additional course. Even the more extensive 42-credit Special Education concentration is designed to be completed within two years of part-time study, assuming you follow the recommended sequence.¹ The cohort model means you progress with the same group, which builds a supportive network but also sets a common pace.

Full-Time Path and Accelerated Options

While part-time study is the norm, full-time enrollment is available for those who can dedicate more time each term. By taking three or four courses per 8-week session, a motivated student could finish the 30-credit program in as little as 12 to 18 months. However, because the sessions are accelerated, a full-time load demands careful planning and significant weekly hours. King's College does not market a separate accelerated track; instead, the 8-week format itself speeds things along compared to traditional 16-week semesters.

Completion Time Limits and Leaves of Absence

King's College expects students to complete all degree requirements within two years of matriculation.¹ If a professional or personal conflict arises, you can request a leave of absence, but you should discuss the implications with your advisor early. Any pause may extend your graduation date, and you might need to rejoin a later cohort to pick up the required courses in the original order. Approval is handled on a case-by-case basis, and keeping in close communication with the graduate education office is key to staying on track.

Planning Your Schedule as a Working Educator

The program is designed so that a full-time teacher can complete the M.Ed. without leaving the classroom. The 8-week terms concentrate the workload, and the summer session lightens the load during the academic year. Many students find that the two-year plan fits smoothly alongside their teaching contracts, while those with more flexibility sometimes accelerate by doubling up on summer courses or adding a fifth course across the year. Because clinical experiences or practica are woven into the coursework for certain specializations, check with your advisor about any additional time commitments outside the regular credit load.

Application Deadlines and Materials for King's College M.ed.

Some graduate programs operate on strict semester deadlines that require planning months in advance; King's College takes a more flexible approach with rolling admissions for the M.Ed.,¹ allowing you to apply closer to the term start while still keeping key cutoff dates in view.

Rolling Admissions and Key Deadlines

King's College reviews M.Ed. applications on a rolling basis, meaning you can submit your materials throughout the year for fall, spring, or summer entry. The primary deadline is simple: your application must be received at least five business days before the start of classes for your intended term.¹ Once accepted, you'll need to confirm enrollment no later than two days prior to the start of classes.¹ Because course schedules vary, you should check the current academic calendar on the King's College website to pinpoint the exact start date for the term you're targeting.¹

How to Apply and Required Materials

All applications are submitted through the King's College graduate admissions portal. While the M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction is the primary focus, the process is similar for other specializations. You can expect to provide: - Transcripts: Official transcripts from every college or university you've attended. - Personal statement: A written essay explaining your academic and professional goals. - Letters of recommendation: Typically two, from academic or professional references.

Standardized test scores such as the GRE are not required for the M.Ed. program. If you're interested in the Reading & Literacy or Special Education concentrations, confirm any additional requirements directly with the program coordinator, as materials can vary slightly.

Financial Aid and Priority Deadlines

The college does not publish a specific priority deadline for financial aid.¹ To maximize your aid eligibility, complete the FAFSA as early as possible and speak with the financial aid office about grants, loans, or tuition assistance programs you may qualify for. Rolling admission means aid is often processed alongside your application, but early filing is always recommended.

After You Apply

After submission, admissions decisions are typically communicated within a few weeks. Admitted students should promptly confirm their spot and plan to attend any required orientation sessions, details are sent with the acceptance package. For questions, contact the graduate admissions team directly through the portal or by phone.

Accreditation and State Approval

Does King's College hold national accreditation for its teaching programs?

The Master of Education programs at King's College are not accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), a national accreditation body for educator preparation.¹ However, the college maintains regional institutional accreditation and state-level approval that are more directly relevant for most aspiring teachers.

Institutional Accreditation

King's College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)², a regional accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Reaffirmed in June 2024², this status confirms the college meets rigorous standards for faculty, curriculum, resources, and student support. Regional accreditation is critical for credit transfer among colleges and for federal financial aid eligibility.

State Program Approval

The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) has approved King's College education programs for teacher certification. This includes the graduate-level M.Ed. specializations in Curriculum and Instruction, Special Education, and Reading and Literacy, as well as the undergraduate PK-4 program.³ PDE approval means that completing these programs satisfies the state's certification requirements, enabling graduates to apply for Pennsylvania teaching licenses.

Why Accreditation Matters

For employment in Pennsylvania public schools, state certification is the primary requirement. While national accreditation can signal a national standard of educator preparation, it is not mandatory for teaching in the commonwealth. King's College's PDE approval ensures graduates are eligible for jobs in Pennsylvania districts. Those planning to teach in other states should review M.Ed. programs by state and check reciprocity rules; most states accept teacher preparation that is approved by the home state's education agency, even in the absence of CAEP accreditation.

Career Outcomes and Salary Expectations

A Master's in Education from King's College opens doors to tangible career advancement and higher earning potential, particularly in Pennsylvania's education sector where demand for specialized skills is growing.

Program-Level Earnings and Growth

Median earnings for King's M.Ed. graduates one year after completion are approximately $48,000, reflecting early-career roles. By four years out, median earnings rise to about $55,000, a 15% increase that aligns with increased responsibility and tenure. While these figures are based on available data, actual earnings vary by specialization, district pay scales, and years of prior experience.

Career Pathways and Titles

M.Ed. graduates commonly step into positions such as: - Curriculum Specialist: Design and align instructional materials across grade levels, often earning $60,000, $75,000. - Reading Interventionist: Provide targeted literacy support, with salaries ranging $50,000, $68,000 depending on district. - Special Education Coordinator: Oversee IEPs and compliance, earning $58,000, $80,000 in Pennsylvania.

These roles exceed national medians for instructional coordinators ($66,490) and special education teachers ($65,910), according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Advanced credentials, such as a master's in reading and literacy, further boost competitiveness.

Demand in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania faces a well-documented shortage of special education and literacy professionals. The state's Chapter 49-2 regulations encourage master's-level training, and many districts offer salary supplements for M.Ed. holders. This structural demand means King's graduates are well-positioned in local markets like Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, and beyond.

Support from Career Services

King's College career services office provides resume workshops, interview prep, and job fairs tailored to educators. The alumni network actively connects graduates with hiring districts, streamlining the transition from coursework to classroom leadership. Many students secure positions before completing their program through fieldwork placements and alumni referrals.

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