Advance Your Teaching Career with Lee University's Master's in Education Programs

Lee University's Master's in Education Programs

For working educators, the decision to pursue a master’s degree often pits flexibility against depth of preparation. Lee University’s on-campus-only M.Ed. programs require a commitment to place, but they promise a formation rooted in faith and practice. The university offers a range of specializations, including Curriculum & Instruction, Educational Leadership, and a Master of Arts in Teaching for career changers seeking licensure. Within one year of graduating, 93% of Lee alumni are employed, and 89% of M.Ed. graduates say their job aligns with their aspirations. For those ready to relocate or already living near Cleveland, Tennessee, an in-person graduate education can lead to more than a credential: it can shape a vocation.

M.ed. Specializations Offered at Lee University

Lee University’s College of Education offers several graduate pathways for educators at different career stages. Whether you are seeking advanced licensure to deepen your expertise, an administrative credential, a special education endorsement, or a route into the classroom for the first time, there is a program designed to meet your goals. Each track balances rigorous coursework with practical application, and many are available in flexible formats to accommodate working professionals.⁴

Curriculum & Instruction (Advanced Licensure)

The M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction is built for practicing teachers who already hold a teaching license and want to deepen their expertise. This 33-credit program¹ emphasizes advanced instructional strategies, action research, and inclusive classroom practices. Core courses cover assessment of student learning, philosophy and worldview in education, and school law. The curriculum culminates in a thesis seminar or elective, allowing educators to tailor their final experience to their professional context.

Educational Leadership (Advanced Licensure)

For educators aiming to move into administrative or leadership roles, the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership provides a pathway to advanced licensure. The program focuses on developing skills in school management, instructional leadership, and organizational change. While specific course sequences are determined by state requirements, the degree equips graduates to pursue positions such as principal, instructional coordinator, or district-level administrator.

Special Education (Add-On Licensure)

Lee University offers an M.Ed. in Special Education with several concentration options, making it possible for licensed teachers to add special education endorsements to their credentials. Students choose from four distinct tracks: - Early Childhood: Prepares educators to support young children with developmental delays and disabilities. - Comprehensive K-12: Covers a broad range of special education needs across all grade levels. - Interventionist I K-8: Focuses on reading and math intervention strategies for elementary and middle school students. - Interventionist II 6-12: Tailored for secondary-level interventions in literacy and mathematics. The program requires 39-41 credits², depending on the chosen concentration, and includes specialized courses such as SPED 523, SPED 553, and EDUC 554.

Master of Arts in Teaching (Initial Licensure)

While not an M.Ed., the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) is another graduate pathway offered by Lee University for individuals who hold a bachelor's degree in a field other than education and wish to become licensed teachers. This initial licensure program³ combines pedagogical coursework with supervised clinical practice, preparing candidates to enter the classroom in elementary or secondary settings. The MAT is ideal for career changers or recent graduates seeking a direct route into the teaching profession.

Across all programs, Lee emphasizes a faith-informed perspective on education, integrating Christian values with professional preparation. This distinctive approach, combined with small class sizes and experienced faculty, supports a collaborative learning environment.

Curriculum Deep Dive: Courses, Credits, and Practical Experience

Lee University’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) requires between 42 and 44 credit hours,¹ blending a foundational core with specialized licensure tracks. The program is designed for aspiring teachers seeking initial licensure and offers a curriculum that balances educational theory with hands-on classroom practice.

MAT Core Requirements

The MAT program builds on a 19-credit core² that grounds students in essential educational concepts. Required courses include:

• EDUC 501 (3 credits)
• EDUC 502 (3 credits)
• EDUC 503 (3 credits)
• EDUC 563 (3 credits)
• EDUC 565 (3 credits)
• EDUC 570 (3 credits)
• EDUC 575 (1 credit)

These courses cover areas such as foundations of education, learning theory, instructional strategies, and assessment. Students also complete 3 credits of electives,² allowing them to tailor their studies to areas of interest.

Licensure-Specific Emphasis Courses

Students pursuing a licensure track, such as Middle Grades English, add a 12-credit emphasis sequence.² This focused block includes:

• EDUC 568 (3 credits)
• EDMG 513 (2 credits)
• READ 582 (3 credits)
• EDUC 581 (2 credits)
• EDUC 572 (2 credits)

This combination equips candidates with content-specific pedagogical skills and literacy instruction methods necessary for Tennessee licensure. Other licensure tracks follow a similar structure with tailored coursework.

Internship and Culminating Experience

Practical experience is embedded through two required internship courses drawn from EDUC 596, EDUC 597, or EDUC 598.² These field-based placements let students apply theory in real classrooms under mentor guidance. For those interested in research, the MAT offers an optional thesis,¹ providing a pathway to scholarly inquiry and potential doctoral preparation.

Ed.S. Programs: Curriculum and Instruction and Educational Leadership

Beyond the master’s level, Lee offers Education Specialist (Ed.S.) programs for advanced practitioners. The Ed.S. in curriculum and instruction requires 30 credits (18 core, 12 elective),³ while the Ed.S. in Educational Leadership requires 33 credits (18 core, 15 elective).³ Both allow customization through electives chosen with faculty advising, and detailed course lists are available in the graduate catalog.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Online, On-Campus, and Hybrid: How You Can Earn Your M.ed.

Lee University delivers all of its Master of Education programs in a traditional on-campus format, with no fully online or hybrid tracks currently offered. This means every M.Ed. specialization requires your physical presence in Cleveland, Tennessee, for classes, discussions, and field experiences.¹

On-Campus Delivery for All M.Ed. Specializations

As of 2026, Lee University's graduate education programs, including Curriculum & Instruction, Educational Leadership, and Special Education, are exclusively available through on-campus instruction. There are no distance-learning or blended options for these degrees. The university's commitment to a face-to-face learning environment reflects its emphasis on direct mentorship, cohort-based collaboration, and hands-on training that aligns with its mission and campus culture.¹

What This Means for Online and Hybrid Learners

Because online and hybrid modalities do not exist for Lee's M.Ed. programs, terms like synchronous and asynchronous online classes do not apply here. Prospective students who need remote flexibility will need to consider other institutions, as Lee does not accommodate fully online coursework or periodic on-campus intensives paired with remote learning. All coursework, seminars, and advising sessions take place in person.

Arranging Practicum and Student Teaching as an On-Campus Student

All M.Ed. candidates complete their practicum, student teaching, or administrative internship requirements through placements arranged by the College of Education. These placements are typically in schools and districts near the Cleveland campus or within reasonable commuting distance. Because the program is not designed for distance learners, there is no separate process for remote field experiences; faculty advisors work closely with on-campus students to secure appropriate local sites that meet licensure and program standards.

Is an On-Campus M.Ed. Right for You?

Choosing Lee University means embracing a residential graduate experience. If you live near Cleveland or are willing to relocate, the on-campus format fosters strong relationships with peers and professors, immediate access to campus resources, and a structured pace of study. However, working professionals who cannot attend classes in person should explore other universities with verified online M.Ed. options in Tennessee or beyond.

Tuition and Financial Aid: The Real Cost of a Lee M.ed.

Understanding the true cost of a master’s degree is essential for financial planning. Lee University’s M.Ed. programs use transparent per-credit pricing, with no additional surcharges for out-of-state students. We break down tuition rates, mandatory fees, total program costs, and the financial aid resources available to help you invest in your future.

Graduate Tuition Rates

For the 2026-2027 academic year, Lee charges $1,060 per credit hour for all graduate education students. This rate applies uniformly across every M.Ed. specialization and is the same whether you are a Tennessee resident or attending from another state. Because there is no out-of-state premium, total expenses are predictable from the start.¹

Mandatory Fees

Beyond per-credit tuition, all students pay a few standard fees each semester. Each semester, you’ll pay a $25 registration fee and a $77 student services fee. If you elect the deferred payment plan, an additional $100 fee applies per semester. At the end of your program, a one-time $170 graduation fee is charged.³ These fees are modest but should be included when calculating your full financial commitment.

Total Estimated Program Cost

Lee’s M.Ed. programs range from 30 to 36 credit hours, so the final tuition total depends on your specific track. Based on the $1,060 per-credit rate and typical credit requirements, you can expect the following tuition amounts: - 30-credit program: $31,800 - 33-credit program (such as Curriculum and Instruction): $34,980 - 36-credit program: $38,160¹

These figures do not include the semester fees noted above, so plan for an additional $102 to $202 per semester if you use the payment plan.

Financial Aid and Assistance

Lee offers several financial support options. All M.Ed. programs are eligible for federal financial aid; you can file the FAFSA to access federal student loans.⁴ Lee also offers graduate assistantships and tuition remission for eligible students, which can significantly lower net costs.⁵ For those who prefer to spread payments, the deferred payment plan lets you divide tuition into installments across the semester.

Employer and Military Benefits

Many educators fund their degrees through employer tuition reimbursement programs; your school district or educational organization may have a partnership or policy that covers graduate coursework. Service members and veterans are encouraged to contact Lee’s financial aid office about using GI Bill benefits or other military education programs, as personalized counseling can reveal additional funding opportunities.

Breaking Down the Total Cost of Your M.ed.

Understanding the full financial picture helps you plan ahead. While tuition forms the foundation, mandatory fees and course materials add up quickly, shaping the total investment in your graduate degree.

Admissions Requirements at a Glance

Lee University’s M.Ed. programs have a straightforward admissions process. Here is a quick overview of the key requirements to prepare your application.

• Bachelor’s Degree

  You must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, preferably in an approved teacher education program.
• Minimum GPA

  A cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 2.75 is required for admission.
• Standardized Test Scores

  Submit official MAT or GRE scores, both are accepted.
• Application Form & Fee

  Complete the online graduate application and pay the $25 non-refundable fee.
• Official Transcripts

  Arrange for two official transcripts from all previous colleges or universities attended.
• Letters of Recommendation

  Provide three professional or academic recommendations; forms are included in the application packet.
• Writing Sample

  Submit a 500-word writing sample demonstrating your communication and analytical skills.
• Interview

  Participate in an interview with the graduate education faculty, scheduled after your application is reviewed.
• Background Check

  Complete a background check, as required for all M.Ed. candidates.
• Teaching License or Equivalent

  For advanced programs, a current teaching license or proof of completion of an approved teacher education program is required.
• Application Deadlines

  Apply by November 1 for spring, April 1 for summer, or June 1 for fall admission.

Accreditation and Licensure: What Lee's M.ed. Means for Your Career

Institutional Accreditation

Lee University holds institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)¹. This regional accreditation signals that the university meets rigorous standards for academic quality, faculty credentials, and student support services. For graduate students, SACSCOC accreditation also ensures that credits and degrees are widely recognized by other institutions, a critical factor if you later pursue an education specialist or doctoral degree, and an important consideration when evaluating M.Ed. accreditation.

Programmatic Quality Assurance

The education programs at Lee University are accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) through 2030². AAQEP accreditation is a national mark of excellence that focuses on evidence of candidate performance and positive impact on P-12 student learning. This status confirms that Lee’s M.Ed. programs align with current professional standards and that graduates are prepared for the demands of modern classrooms. Historically, Lee’s educator preparation was accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), a legacy body that set the foundation for today’s quality benchmarks.³

Licensure Pathways

Lee University offers M.Ed. programs that fall into two distinct categories: those leading to initial teaching licensure in Tennessee and those designed for advanced licensure or endorsements. - Initial Licensure: These tracks prepare candidates who do not yet hold a teaching license. Upon completion, graduates meet all requirements to apply for a Tennessee initial teaching license. - Advanced Licensure: Programs in this category serve educators who already hold a standard license. They do not lead to an initial license but may support advanced endorsements in specialized areas such as reading, instructional leadership, or special education.

All 32 educator preparation programs at Lee are approved by the Tennessee Department of Education¹, ensuring alignment with state standards and a clear pathway to licensure for eligible candidates.

Preparing for Your Career Across State Lines

For educators planning to teach outside Tennessee, Lee’s state-approved programs often facilitate licensure reciprocity. Many states have agreements that honor Tennessee licenses, but requirements vary. Graduates should consult the department of education in their target state and explore M.Ed. programs by state to verify specific steps for license transfer.

Career Outcomes: Salary Potential and Job Placement for Graduates

Within one year of graduating, 93% of Lee University alumni are employed, and for those who earned a Master of Education degree, the connection to career goals is even stronger, with 89% saying their job aligns with their aspirations. This high level of satisfaction is mirrored in early hiring data: 61% of graduates secured a job before completing their program, and 72% reported receiving a dream job offer. Education alumni, in particular, benefit from a degree that directly bridges classroom experience with professional advancement.¹

Early-Career Employment Rates and School Placement

Lee University's College of Education reports that 49.9% of its graduates were employed in Tennessee public schools within their first year, according to the state’s most recent educator preparation report card. Among those who began teaching, 77.8% returned for a second year in the same district: a strong indicator of early-career stability and satisfaction.² While these figures reflect a single cohort, they underscore the value school systems place on Lee-trained educators.

Beyond public school classrooms, 85% of all Lee graduates report that their job is directly related to their degree.¹ For education majors, this often means roles like classroom teacher, instructional coordinator, or curriculum specialist. The program’s emphasis on practical, research-backed instruction helps graduates transition smoothly into positions that demand both content expertise and leadership skills.

Salary Growth Over Time

For educators, a master’s degree often translates directly into a higher M.Ed. degree salary. Most Tennessee school districts place teachers with graduate degrees on a higher salary step, and further salary bumps come with roles like department chair or instructional coach. Over a full career, the return on a degree like Lee’s M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction, with its $17,480 tuition investment, can be substantial.

Career Pathways and High-Demand Fields

Graduates of Lee’s M.Ed. programs pursue a variety of roles: classroom teacher, instructional coordinator, curriculum designer, school principal, and private-sector trainer, among others. The Curriculum & Instruction specialization, with its focus on assessment, inclusion, and school law, prepares professionals for both K-12 leadership and community-based educational settings.

Demand for qualified educators remains strong across Tennessee and the Southeast. State and local data show persistent shortages in special education, STEM, and ESL, creating opportunities for candidates with advanced credentials. Lee’s strong reputation within the region, where many alumni are hired by Hamilton County, Bradley County, and Cleveland City Schools, opens doors for graduates seeking to make an immediate impact while building a long-term career.

A Promising Return on Investment

Frequently Asked Questions About Lee University's M.ed. Programs

Below are answers to the most common questions prospective students ask about Lee University's Master's in Education offerings. Always verify details with the latest information from the official graduate admissions website or the College of Education.

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