Your Guide to Master's in Education Programs at Saint Francis University

Choosing a master’s in education often comes down to a single, practical question: can you advance your credentials without stepping away from the classroom? Saint Francis University’s three M.Ed. specializations: Educational Leadership, Special Education, and Reading & Literacy, are built for working educators, with online, on-campus, and hybrid delivery options that vary by program.

Tuition runs $735 per credit hour, keeping the total degree cost competitive among Pennsylvania private universities. The Educational Leadership track requires in-person attendance for select seminars, while other concentrations are available entirely online. With Pennsylvania districts actively recruiting certified school leaders and intervention specialists, an M.Ed. from a regionally accredited institution becomes a concrete career lever.

About Saint Francis University's School of Education

Saint Francis University, nestled in the Allegheny Mountains of Loretto, Pennsylvania, has been shaping servant leaders since 1847. As one of the oldest Franciscan Catholic universities in the nation, its mission is rooted in the values of humility, service, and a deep respect for all people. This heritage permeates every corner of campus life, and the School of Education is no exception.

Franciscan Tradition and Educational Values

The university's Franciscan identity calls for a commitment to social justice, compassion, and community engagement. These ideals directly shape how the School of Education prepares educators. Rather than treating teaching as merely a technical skill, the program emphasizes the formation of reflective practitioners who see every student as a unique individual worthy of dignity and opportunity. Small class sizes, close mentorship from faculty, and field experiences embedded in diverse settings ensure that graduates leave not just with a credential, but with a sense of purpose.

Developing Ethical Leaders in Education

At the heart of the School of Education is a clear mission: to develop ethical leaders who excel in teaching and administration. Whether you are pursuing initial certification, an advanced credential, or a pathway into educational leadership, the curriculum consistently weaves together theory, practice, and a strong moral framework. Coursework often incorporates case studies that challenge students to grapple with real-world dilemmas, encouraging growth in both competence and character. Faculty members, many of whom are experienced practitioners themselves, mentor candidates to become advocates for equity and positive change in their schools.

Graduate Education Pathways

Saint Francis University offers multiple graduate education pathways designed for working professionals. All Master of Education (M.Ed.) specializations available through the university fall under this umbrella, providing focused tracks in areas such as educational leadership, special education, and reading and literacy. Each program is structured to accommodate busy schedules, with options for online, on-campus, or hybrid learning. This flexibility allows current teachers and aspiring administrators to advance their careers without stepping away from their professional commitments. By integrating Franciscan values with rigorous academic standards, the School of Education ensures that graduates are ready to lead with integrity in today's evolving educational landscape.

M.ed. Specializations: Educational Leadership, Special Education, and Reading & Literacy

Today’s education landscape demands professionals who can lead systemic change, support diverse learners, and close literacy gaps: graduate programs are responding with sharply defined specializations. Saint Francis University offers three distinct Master of Education tracks, each designed to meet state certification requirements and career goals. All three are delivered fully online, providing flexibility for working educators.

Educational Leadership M.Ed.

The Educational Leadership track prepares you for roles such as department head, instructional coach, or principal. Core coursework covers leadership theory, school law, curriculum design, and data-informed decision making. The general track requires 33 credits, while the Principal PK-12 concentration adds one more credit (34 total) and includes a 360-hour clinical internship.¹ A signature element is the capstone practicum: a six-credit², semester-long leadership experience where you apply theory under the mentorship of a practicing administrator. This field experience is central to the program, allowing you to build a portfolio of leadership artifacts.

Special Education M.Ed.

The Special Education track focuses on inclusive practices, assessment, and behavior management to support students with disabilities. The PreK-12 certification pathway is a comprehensive 54- to 69-credit program (depending on prior certification), culminating in 360 clinical hours.¹ For those who already hold a special education certification, the Supervisor of Special Education program (33 credits, 360 hours) prepares you for district-level leadership roles. A third option, the Autism Spectrum Disorder Endorsement (30 credits, 90 hours) deepens expertise in one of the fastest-growing areas of need.¹ Across all pathways, the practicum is a defining experience: you spend substantial time in real classrooms, developing and implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and collaborating with families and staff.

Reading & Literacy M.Ed.

The master's in reading and literacy program (Reading Specialist PK-12) is built around literacy development, diagnosis, and intervention. This 30- to 42-credit track includes 100 clinical hours and leads to reading specialist certification.¹ Courses such as Language and Reading Development, Strategies in Reading and Writing, and the Clinic I practicum give you hands-on practice in assessing reading difficulties and designing targeted remediation.² The clinic experience (where you work one-on-one with struggling readers under faculty supervision) is the hallmark of this program, blending theory with immediate, tangible impact.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Online, On-Campus, and Hybrid: Choosing Your Learning Format

Saint Francis University’s M.Ed. in Educational Leadership requires 33 credit hours and is designed for completion in two years, offering both full-time and part-time study tracks. The program is delivered on campus in Loretto, Pennsylvania, so you engage directly with experienced faculty and build close professional networks with fellow educators.

Campus-Based Learning for Educational Leadership

The on-campus format provides structured, face-to-face instruction that links educational theory to practice. Classes typically meet in the evenings or on weekends. The program emphasizes collaborative learning, with opportunities for mentorship and immediate feedback during discussions and applied projects.

Online and Hybrid Options for Other Specializations

For educators seeking greater flexibility, Saint Francis University also offers Master’s in Education specializations in Special Education and Reading & Literacy. These programs are available in either fully online or hybrid formats, combining asynchronous coursework with periodic virtual or on-campus sessions. This allows you to balance graduate study with full-time teaching responsibilities, family commitments, or geographic constraints.

Flexibility for Working Professionals

Part-time enrollment is available across all delivery formats, and a rolling admissions cycle lets you start in fall, spring, or summer. Asynchronous online courses let you log in when your schedule permits, while synchronous components may include live virtual meetings scheduled outside standard school hours. The university’s student support services, including academic advising and career counseling, are accessible remotely for online learners.

Pacing Your Education

The two-year completion timeline is common for students who maintain a steady course load while working full-time. With a maximum completion window of five years, you can speed up or slow down based on personal and professional demands. This adaptable structure ensures that advancing your credentials remains feasible without pausing your teaching career.

What Does an M.ed. At Saint Francis University Cost?

Understanding the financial commitment of a master's degree is a critical step in your enrollment decision. Saint Francis University sets a transparent per-credit-hour rate for all Master of Education specializations, meaning whether you pursue Educational Leadership, Special Education, or Reading & Literacy, the tuition cost remains consistent. Here, you'll find a breakdown of the direct costs, fees, and financial aid pathways to help you plan your investment in graduate education.

Per-Credit Tuition and Fees

For the 2025-2026 academic year, the per-credit-hour rate for M.Ed. programs is $735.¹ This rate applies uniformly to both in-state and out-of-state students, and it is identical across every specialization offered by the School of Education.³ In addition to tuition, a modest technology fee of $50 per semester² supports online learning platforms, library resources, and instructional technology services. No other program-specific fees are currently published, but students should confirm incidental expenses such as textbooks or background checks directly with the program office.

Total Program Cost Estimate

The total credit requirement varies slightly by specialization, but the most common program structure (e.g., Educational Leadership) requires 33 credit hours. At $735 per credit, base tuition totals $24,255. Adding four semesters of the technology fee ($200), a typical program cost lands around $24,455. Because Saint Francis University guarantees that the per-credit rate will not increase for continuously enrolled students, you can lock in this price at the start of your first semester. The program is designed for completion in as few as 24 months of part-time online study, allowing you to maintain employment while you earn your degree.

• All specializations same rate: No premium for high-demand tracks.
• No out-of-state surcharge: Online students everywhere pay the same tuition.
• Fees are minimal: Only the $50/semester technology fee applies beyond tuition.

Financial Aid Opportunities

Saint Francis University builds financial accessibility into its M.Ed. programs. All admitted students automatically receive an institutional scholarship that reduces the effective tuition burden.¹ While the exact award amount may vary, this embedded scholarship means the sticker price does not tell the whole story, your actual out-of-pocket cost is likely lower. Beyond institutionally funded aid, several other resources can help fund your degree:

• Federal Direct Loans: U.S. citizens and permanent residents may borrow unsubsidized or Grad PLUS loans by completing the FAFSA. These loans offer flexible repayment and deferment options while you are enrolled at least half-time.³
• Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Many K-12 school districts, private schools, and education-adjacent organizations offer partial or full tuition reimbursement for graduate coursework. Speak with your human resources department to determine eligibility and any service commitment requirements.³
• Graduate Assistantships: While the online format does not typically include on-campus assistantships, some limited remote or local research positions may be available. Contact the School of Education at 814-472-3068 or [email protected] to inquire about current openings.¹

Because every student's financial situation differs, you are encouraged to connect with the university's financial aid office early in the application process. They can help you estimate your net cost after scholarships and federal aid, and may guide you toward external awards for educators, such as the TEACH Grant or state-specific loan forgiveness programs.

Breaking Down Your M.ed. Investment

A 30-credit Master of Education at Saint Francis University costs $735 per credit hour. The total includes tuition and a technology fee; books and supplies are additional and not included in this sum.

How to Apply: Admissions Requirements and Deadlines

Navigating the Application Process

Applying to Saint Francis University’s master’s in education programs requires careful attention to program-specific requirements and deadlines. The university’s graduate admissions website serves as the central hub for official information, including minimum GPA expectations, standardized test policies, and required supporting documents.

Standard Application Components

While exact criteria vary by specialization, most M.Ed. applications include several common elements. Applicants typically submit official transcripts from all previously attended institutions, letters of recommendation from academic or professional references, and a statement of purpose outlining career goals and reasons for pursuing graduate study. Many programs offer GRE or MAT waivers for candidates who meet certain academic or professional thresholds; details on qualifying for a waiver are available directly through the admissions office.

Licensure and Certification Prerequisites

If your chosen specialization leads to teaching certification or an additional endorsement, review any state-specific prerequisites. Program handbooks and the university catalog list courses that align with Pennsylvania certification standards, but candidates from other states should confirm reciprocity or additional requirements. Contact the School of Education early to clarify whether your background qualifies you for licensure-track enrollment.

Timing Your Application

Saint Francis University typically offers admission for fall, spring, and summer terms, but deadlines are not uniform across all graduate education programs. The academic calendar posted on the university’s website provides the most current cutoff dates. Submit materials well in advance of the posted deadline, especially if you plan to seek financial aid or graduate assistantships.

Submitting Your Application

The application itself is completed through the university’s online admissions portal. Step-by-step instructions guide you through creating an account, uploading documents, and paying any applicable fee. If questions arise, the graduate admissions office is available by phone or email to offer personalized assistance.

Career Opportunities and Earning Potential for M.ed. Graduates

Earning a Master of Education from Saint Francis University positions you for advanced roles in K-12 schools, with responsibilities and salaries that reflect your expanded expertise. While program-specific earnings data for each specialization is still being compiled, the university's overall graduate outcomes demonstrate a strong return on educational investment.

Educational Leadership Careers

The M.Ed. in Educational Leadership prepares you for roles such as principal, curriculum coordinator, or instructional coach. These positions involve shaping school culture, guiding teacher development, and improving student outcomes. Saint Francis graduates of this program often pursue administrative certification in Pennsylvania, which can lead to salaries well above the classroom teacher scale. For context, the median earnings of Saint Francis University alumni are approximately $62,100, and leadership roles typically enhance earning potential further.

Special Education Careers

Graduates of the Special Education concentration step into roles like special education teacher, inclusion specialist, or behavior interventionist. These professionals are in high demand across Pennsylvania and the nation. While detailed salary outcomes for this specific program are not yet available, Pennsylvania special education teachers with a master's degree commonly earn competitive wages, often boosted by district stipends and experience-based salary lanes. The added credential can also open doors to district-level coordination positions.

Reading and Literacy Careers

The Reading & Literacy specialization prepares you for positions such as reading specialist, literacy coach, or Title I coordinator. Many graduates go on to earn the Reading Specialist K-12 certification in Pennsylvania, which qualifies them to lead reading interventions and mentor classroom teachers. This certification pathway is a strategic move for educators looking to move into a high-impact, specialized role that often commands a salary increase.

Across these specializations, the financial return on an M.Ed. is clear.

Weighing the Return on Investment

The Master of Education in Educational Leadership, for example, carries a total tuition of $21,940. When compared to the university's median alumni earnings of $62,100, the degree offers a clear financial upside. Even after accounting for living expenses and any student loans, the earnings boost from a master's degree in education can pay for itself quickly. Additionally, many graduate students benefit from financial aid, employer tuition reimbursement, or scholarship opportunities that reduce the upfront cost, further strengthening the return.

M.ed. Graduate Earnings at a Glance

Program-specific earnings for Saint Francis University’s M.Ed. graduates have not yet been released.

Accreditation: Ensuring Quality in Education Programs

A graduate degree is a significant investment, and the accreditation behind your program can influence everything from how you pay for it to where you can work afterward. Saint Francis University holds the rigorous institutional accreditation that qualifies students for federal financial aid and ensures credits transfer, but its teacher education pathways carry a more state-specific stamp of approval, a detail that matters if you plan to teach outside Pennsylvania.

Institutional Accreditation: The Foundation

Saint Francis University has been continuously accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) since 1939.¹ The university's accreditation was most recently reaffirmed in 2025, with the next evaluation scheduled for the 2032-33 academic year.¹ This institutional accreditation is essential: it confirms that the university meets quality standards for financial stability, governance, and student learning outcomes. For you, that means eligibility for federal grants and loans, seamless credit transfer to other regionally accredited institutions, and a degree that employers nationwide recognize as legitimate.²

Program-Level Approval for Teacher Preparation

Beyond institutional accreditation, education programs need separate approval to lead to teaching licensure. Saint Francis University's teacher preparation programs are state-approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE).³ This approval allows graduates to pursue initial teaching certification in Pennsylvania, but it does not extend to national programmatic accreditation from bodies like the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) or the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP).² While state approval is sufficient for licensure within Pennsylvania, educators seeking reciprocity in other states should verify specific interstate agreement requirements, as some states prioritize programs with national accreditation.

What Accreditation Means for Your Career

• Federal Financial Aid: MSCHE accreditation ensures you can apply for Title IV federal student aid programs, including grants and Direct Loans.
• Licensure Portability: Because the M.Ed. programs are approved by PDE but not nationally accredited, your immediate licensure pathway is strongest in Pennsylvania. Graduates targeting teaching positions elsewhere should contact the receiving state's education agency to understand additional steps.
• Employer Confidence: Both regional institutional accreditation and state program approval signal that your degree meets defined standards, which helps when competing for roles in public and private school districts.

In short, Saint Francis University's education programs are built on a solid institutional foundation with state-level program approval, though the absence of CAEP or AAQEP recognition is worth considering if your career path crosses state lines.

Saint Francis University (PA) Vs. University of St Francis (IL): Clearing up the Confusion

Many prospective graduate students encounter two similarly named Catholic Franciscan universities and wonder whether they are the same institution. Saint Francis University in Loretto, Pennsylvania, and the University of St Francis in Joliet, Illinois, are distinct schools with separate histories, campuses, and program offerings. Understanding their differences helps you make an informed choice about where to pursue your master’s in education.

Location and Founding

Both universities share a Franciscan heritage but were founded decades apart in different states. Saint Francis University, located in central Pennsylvania, serves a predominantly Appalachian region, while the University of St Francis, situated in the Chicago metropolitan area, draws largely from Illinois and the Midwest. Each institution’s local community influence shapes internship opportunities and fieldwork placements for education students.

Academic Programs and Focus

While both schools offer graduate education programs, their specific master’s degrees and specializations differ. Saint Francis University’s M.Ed. concentrations include Educational Leadership, Special Education, and Reading & Literacy, as detailed in this profile. The University of St Francis provides its own set of education endorsements and degrees; prospective students should consult each school’s official academic catalog to compare curricula, delivery formats, and faculty expertise. NCES College Navigator can also highlight side-by-side enrollment sizes and student demographics.

Accreditation and Reputation

Both institutions hold regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (for Illinois) or the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (for Pennsylvania), ensuring credits transfer and degrees are recognized. For specific program-level quality assurances, check each university’s website for specialized accreditations like CAEP for education programs. Graduates of both schools have gone on to successful teaching and leadership careers, but the alumni networks and employer relationships reflect their regional locations.

How to Verify Details

To avoid confusion, always start with each university’s official website: francis.edu for Saint Francis University (PA) and stfrancis.edu for the University of St Francis (IL). Cross-reference accreditation status using the U.S. Department of Education’s database (ope.ed.gov/accreditation). For objective data like graduation rates and program counts, the NCES College Navigator tool allows side-by-side comparisons. By directly consulting these authoritative sources, you can confirm the facts that matter most for your education investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find quick answers to the most common questions about Saint Francis University's master's in education programs. Whether you're considering an online or on-campus track, these FAQs cover programs, costs, admissions, and career outcomes.

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