What to Expect from Furman University's Master's in Education Programs

In a state that needs to hire over 5,000 new teachers each year, Furman University’s century-old teacher preparation programs carry unusual weight. The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) embeds candidates in Greenville classrooms for a full-year residency, while the TESOL & Multilingual Learners program addresses a critical statewide shortage. Both paths deliver rigorous, accredited training within a liberal arts framework that prioritizes mentorship and real-world application, exactly what South Carolina districts are seeking.

Greenville's Education Job Market: A Growing Demand for Teachers

The Greenville-Area Education Landscape

Greenville, a hub within the Greenville-Anderson-Mauldin metropolitan area, is home to a wide network of public and private schools. The region has experienced steady population growth in recent years, creating consistent demand for qualified educators across many grade levels and subjects, including elementary school teachers. As families move to the area, local districts continue to expand their teaching staff to meet rising enrollment and evolving student needs.

Demand for K-12 Teachers and ESL/TESOL Specialists

School districts in and around Greenville recruit actively to fill classroom positions. Like much of South Carolina, the area sees a pronounced need for specialists in English as a Second Language (ESL) and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), often requiring a Master of TESOL. The growing number of English language learners in local schools makes these roles especially vital. State-level workforce data regularly identify ESL and TESOL as among the most pressing shortage areas, alongside certain STEM and special education fields.

Opportunities in Local School Districts

Greenville County Schools, as the largest district in the state, frequently posts openings for teachers at all levels. Its job listings offer a real-time view of hiring trends and the types of credentials that are most in demand. While specific salary figures vary by experience and degree level, compensation in the region is generally competitive, and some districts provide additional incentives such as signing bonuses or tuition assistance for educators in critical-need areas. Furman graduates, known for their thorough preparation, often find that their skills align well with what these districts are seeking.

Leveraging Professional Networks

Organizations like the South Carolina Education Association and the Palmetto State Teachers Association serve as valuable resources for educators monitoring the job market. They publish regional employment outlooks, salary schedule summaries, and host networking events that connect job seekers with school recruiters. Staying connected to these networks can help aspiring teachers identify opportunities and understand the evolving landscape of Greenville's education sector.

Furman's Master's in Education Program Options

For over 100 years, Furman University's College of Education has prepared teachers who make a difference. The school currently offers two graduate-level education programs, each designed to meet distinct career goals: a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) for initial teacher licensure and an M.A.Ed. in TESOL & Multilingual Learners for those focused on English language instruction.

Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)

The MAT program is built for aspiring educators and career changers who need a pathway to initial teacher certification in South Carolina. Coursework emphasizes evidence-based instructional methods, classroom management, and culturally responsive teaching. Every candidate completes intensive clinical practice and student teaching placements in local Greenville-area schools, ensuring they graduate ready to lead their own classrooms. While specific specializations vary by cohort and partner district needs, the program's core remains a rigorous commitment to developing reflective, effective practitioners.

M.A.Ed. in TESOL & Multilingual Learners

The 30-credit M.A.Ed. in TESOL is a two-year program that equips teachers to support multilingual learners in U.S. schools and international contexts. The curriculum centers on research-based strategies for language acquisition, with built-in action research and community fieldwork. Students gain practical skills through partnerships that lead to South Carolina's TESOL endorsement. The program reports an average annual salary of $49,947 for its graduates and is designed to be completed without career interruption. Courses are taught by faculty with decades of expertise in TESOL and bilingual education.

College of Education and Continuous Improvement

Both programs are housed in Furman's nationally recognized College of Education, which maintains a century-long tradition of teacher excellence. The college's mission emphasizes the development of educators who are not only skilled practitioners but also critical thinkers committed to ongoing professional growth and social justice in education.

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Program Format and Flexibility: On-Campus, Online, and Hybrid

Furman University's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program operates on an intensive 12-month, full-time schedule.¹ This field-based residency model combines daytime coursework with extensive student teaching placements in Greenville-area schools, giving candidates hands-on classroom experience from the start.²

On-Campus MAT Experience

The MAT program is delivered entirely in person on Furman's campus.³ Students attend classes during the day and complete a residency that pairs them with mentor teachers in local districts. This structure demands a full-time commitment, making it ideal for those who can dedicate themselves exclusively to graduate study and clinical practice. The program is cohort-based, so participants progress through the curriculum together, fostering a collaborative learning environment. However, the MAT has been discontinued for new cohorts after the 2024-2025 academic year, and no new students are being admitted.⁴

Online and Hybrid Options

Furman's graduate education offerings include online pathways, though availability varies by specialization. The Master of Arts in Education (M.A.Ed.) in Literacy is fully online, allowing working teachers to earn credentials over 24 months of part-time study.⁵ For the M.A.Ed. in TESOL/Multilingual Learners, delivery information is not publicly documented as of 2026.⁶ Based on similar programs at Furman, it may be online-dominant, but this has not been confirmed. Prospective students should contact Furman Graduate Studies directly to verify current format and admissions status, as several programs are undergoing reconfiguration or phase-out through 2027.⁴

Flexibility for Working Professionals

Program flexibility depends on the degree path. The former MAT demanded a full-time, in-person commitment, making it impractical for those balancing jobs. In contrast, the online M.A.Ed. in Literacy is designed for practicing educators, with asynchronous coursework that fits around teaching schedules.⁵ Candidates for any Furman education program should confirm current delivery modes directly, given ongoing changes to the graduate portfolio.⁴

Tuition, Financial Aid, and Total Cost

Understanding the Per-Credit Cost

Furman University charges a flat per-credit rate of $475¹ for all graduate education courses, whether you're pursuing the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) or the TESOL program. This rate applies equally to on-campus, online, and hybrid delivery formats, with no differential pricing between modes. The university's 2025-2026 tuition structure keeps education programs consistent, making it easier to plan your finances regardless of how you attend. While some graduate programs at Furman carry higher per-credit costs, the education rate remains notably accessible, a deliberate effort to support future educators.

Total Program Cost and Fees

Both the MAT and TESOL require 30 credits for completion, bringing the total tuition cost to $14,250¹. That figure represents tuition only, as Furman does not impose a separate mandatory fee schedule on graduate students¹. Because most education graduate candidates live off campus, room and board charges are not directly assessed by the university, though you will need to budget for your living expenses. Keep in mind that this estimated total excludes books, supplies, and any technology fees that may apply to individual courses, but the absence of broad-based fees keeps overall expenses lean compared to programs at other private institutions, like Drake University. The full-time course load is set at 6 credits per term¹, allowing you to spread the program over multiple semesters if needed, while a half-time option of 3 credits per term¹ offers even more flexibility.

Financial Aid and Funding Options

Furman participates in the federal student aid programs, meaning you can apply for Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Graduate PLUS Loans¹ by filing the FAFSA. These loans can cover tuition and eligible living expenses up to the cost of attendance. At this time, Furman's graduate education programs do not advertise specific institutional scholarships or assistantships; however, the university encourages students to explore external scholarship opportunities and employer tuition reimbursement plans. The financial aid office can also advise on payment plans that break the per-term balance into manageable installments. Since graduate education at Furman is designed for working professionals, many students find that spreading the cost over several terms while continuing to earn an income makes the investment more manageable.

Cost in Context: A Competitive Edge

When compared to the wider range of Furman's graduate offerings, education programs stand out for their affordability. The average graduate tuition and fees across all programs at the university hover between $14,796 and $14,970 per year, a figure that includes many fields with higher per-credit rates. Because the education per-credit cost is set lower than the cross-program average, the MAT and TESOL represent a strong value within the university and, more broadly, among private graduate education programs in the Southeast, such as Mercer University's master's in education programs. This pricing, combined with the lack of differential online fees and minimal extra charges, makes Furman a financially sensible choice for aspiring teachers in South Carolina.

Admissions Requirements and Application Process

Furman University's master's in education programs maintain a straightforward and accessible admissions process that emphasizes academic readiness and a commitment to teaching. Rather than relying on standardized exam hurdles, the review looks at your undergraduate performance, written reflections, and professional recommendations to gauge fit.

Minimum GPA and Test Requirements

Applicants to the MAT or MA in TESOL need a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75¹. Furman does not require the GRE or MAT for admission². Instead, all candidates must submit passing scores for the Praxis Core basic skills test³, a South Carolina Department of Education requirement that demonstrates foundational competencies in reading, writing, and mathematics. No specific prerequisite coursework is mandated beyond the bachelor's degree, and prior teaching experience is not expected.

Application Materials

The application package is concise yet thorough. You will need to submit official transcripts from every college or university attended, two or three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references who can speak to your potential as an educator, a current résumé detailing relevant experience, and a personal statement². The personal statement is your opportunity to articulate your motivation for pursuing a graduate degree in education, your understanding of the teaching profession, and how Furman's program aligns with your career goals. Some specializations may request an additional writing sample or interview, but the core materials listed here are universal.

Deadlines and Entry Terms

Furman reviews applications on a rolling basis but strongly encourages candidates to meet the priority deadline of January 15¹ for the fall cohort. Submitting by this date ensures full consideration for admission and financial aid. Applications received after the priority deadline are reviewed on a space-available basis. While the fall term is the primary entry point, some programs may offer spring or summer start options; candidates should contact the Office of Graduate Studies directly to confirm availability for off-cycle admission. All application materials should be submitted through the university’s online portal², and decisions are typically communicated within four to six weeks of a completed file.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Career and Salary Outcomes for Furman Education Graduates

Median earnings of $68,635 ten years after entry distinguish Furman University alumni, underscoring the long-term value of a Furman degree. While program-level salary data for Furman’s education master’s graduates is not yet available, this institution-wide figure offers a strong benchmark for return on investment.

Furman’s Institutional Earnings Benchmark

Furman’s overall median earnings ten years after entry sit well above many national averages for liberal arts colleges, reflecting the university’s rigorous academic preparation and strong professional networks. For graduate students in education, these outcomes are particularly relevant, as Furman’s emphasis on practical, field-based training often translates into competitive starting salaries and long-term career stability. Specific earnings trajectories for master’s in education completers will be published as outcome tracking expands, but the university’s track record suggests that graduates are well-positioned in South Carolina’s growing education job market.

Debt at Graduation and Repayment

Furman graduates leave with a median student loan debt of $23,250, a figure that is notably lower than many peers at private liberal arts institutions. For a typical 10-year federal repayment plan, this translates to an estimated monthly payment of approximately $250, assuming current interest rates. This manageable debt load, paired with the strong earning potential shown in institutional data, helps graduates begin their teaching careers with financial stability. Many education students also access federal Teacher Loan Forgiveness programs after service in high-need schools, further reducing the effective cost of the degree.

Career Pathways in Education

Furman’s education programs, including the M.A.Ed. in TESOL and other curriculum and instruction specializations, prepare graduates for roles in both public and private schools across South Carolina and beyond. While employment rates specific to education master’s completers are not yet reported, the university’s 100-year legacy of teacher preparation and deep partnerships with regional districts give graduates a distinct hiring advantage. Alumni frequently secure positions as classroom teachers, instructional coaches, and curriculum specialists, with many advancing into leadership roles over time. For current salary benchmarks, South Carolina’s average teacher salary is approximately $50,000, though Furman graduates often exceed that in later years due to the university’s strong reputation and the advanced degree premium.

Furman's Education Program Accreditation and Quality

Is Furman's education program properly accredited for teacher licensure in South Carolina? Yes. The university holds the necessary national and state recognitions that verify program quality and support licensure eligibility.

National Accreditation through CAEP

The Department of Education at Furman is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) at both the initial-licensure and advanced levels.¹ This accreditation, valid from Spring 2021 through Fall 2028², represents national accreditation through a rigorous peer review of curriculum, faculty, and candidate outcomes. The most recent full review occurred in Spring 2021, and a follow-up site visit is planned for Spring 2028.² CAEP's seal signals that the program meets high standards for preparing effective educators.

South Carolina State Approval

Furman's teacher preparation programs are also fully approved by the South Carolina Department of Education.³ Through a partnership with CAEP that began in 2015², the state confirms that Furman's offerings, including elementary education, secondary subjects, music education, and middle level education, meet all state requirements for licensure.³ The music education program also holds specialized accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).⁴ This approval is essential for candidates seeking South Carolina teaching credentials.

Institutional Accreditation

Beyond education-specific approval, Furman University holds regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).³ This overarching institutional accreditation is a prerequisite for federal financial aid eligibility and assures students of the university's academic and operational integrity.

Why Accreditation Matters

Accreditation is more than a badge. For future teachers, it directly enables licensure in South Carolina and streamlines reciprocity in other states. Employers in public school districts often require graduation from an accredited, state-approved program, a designation you can verify through M.Ed. programs by state. When you choose a CAEP-accredited and state-approved program like Furman's, you protect your investment and strengthen your career prospects from day one.

Teacher Licensure in South Carolina: How Furman Prepares You

Teacher licensure is the state-mandated process that grants you legal permission to teach in public schools, ensuring you meet professional standards for knowledge and classroom readiness. In South Carolina, earning a license involves completing an approved educator preparation program, passing content-area exams, and demonstrating classroom competency. Furman University's master's programs are designed with these requirements in mind, but the journey from graduate coursework to a teaching certificate requires careful navigation of state-specific policies.

How Furman's Education Programs Align with State Requirements

Furman's Master of Education offerings, including concentrations in curriculum and instruction, literacy, and TESOL, are built to align with South Carolina's licensure pathways. The programs embed the foundational coursework and field experiences that the state expects of aspiring teachers. Because policies can shift, the most reliable approach is to confirm your intended specialization with Furman's education department directly. Faculty and advisors regularly track regulatory updates and can help you map your degree plan onto the current endorsement areas recognized by the state.

The Core Components of Licensure in South Carolina

The typical route to a teaching credential in the state includes several essential elements. First, you must hold a bachelor's degree and complete a state-approved educator preparation program, which may be satisfied by earning a master's from an accredited institution like Furman. Second, you will need to pass the relevant Praxis subject assessments, and in some cases the Principles of Learning and Teaching exam, to prove content mastery and pedagogical skill. A background check is mandatory, as is a supervised student teaching experience or internship, which provides hands-on practice in a classroom setting. The exact number of hours and the grade spans can vary by endorsement area, so it is wise to verify current thresholds through official channels.

Keeping Up with Changing Policies

Teacher licensure rules are not static. The South Carolina Department of Education's website is the authoritative source for the latest requirements, including exam score cutoffs and any alternative teacher certification pathways that may exist. For a broader perspective on the profession, the Bureau of Labor Statistics offers general guidance on licensure steps and career outlook, but state-specific details always take precedence. Additionally, organizations like the South Carolina Education Association provide advocacy and resources that can alert you to proposed changes or new initiatives affecting teacher preparation.

A Practical Checklist for Aspiring Teachers

• Verify state expectations: Begin by reviewing the South Carolina Department of Education's current licensure guidelines for your target subject and grade level.
• Align your program: Consult with Furman's education faculty to ensure your master's concentration matches the endorsement you seek.
• Plan for exams: Register for required teacher certification exams well in advance of your intended completion date.
• Coordinate field work: Work with your program's clinical placement coordinator to arrange student teaching that meets state duration and supervision standards.

By pairing Furman's rigorous academic training with proactive attention to licensure details, you can move confidently from graduate study to a teaching career in South Carolina.

Frequently Asked Questions About Furman's Education Programs

Prospective students often have practical questions about program specifics, costs, and career pathways. The following answers address the most common inquiries regarding Furman University's education programs, with guidance on where to find detailed, up-to-date information.