Saint Martin's University Master's in Education: Programs & Pathways

Washington’s special education teaching vacancies were four times higher than elementary openings in 2024-2025, highlighting the need for trained educators. Saint Martin’s University’s College of Education meets this need with programs anchored in Benedictine values of service and community.

Four M.Ed. pathways serve career-changers and current teachers: Master in Teaching (MAT) for initial licensure, M.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Affairs, M.Ed. in Adult Education, and M.Ed. in Special Education.

Most coursework is delivered through synchronous online classes that replicate live discussion, a format ideal for working professionals. Median alumni earnings exceed $62,000, and the program’s debt-to-income ratio ranks among the strongest in the region.

M.ed. Specializations and Concentrations at Saint Martin's

Saint Martin's University structures its M.Ed. specializations to meet distinct professional goals, from initial teacher licensure to leadership in higher education. Each concentration targets a specific career stage, allowing you to deepen expertise in areas with strong demand across Washington and beyond. While the official program pages provide the most current course requirements, here is a general overview of the available pathways and how they align with typical educator career trajectories.

Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Focus

The MAT pathway prepares career-changers and recent graduates for initial teaching certification. This track typically covers instructional methods, classroom management, and subject-specific pedagogy. Candidates often complete supervised student-teaching placements in local schools. Because endorsement areas vary (such as elementary education, secondary sciences, or English language arts), you should consult the university's School of Education for the exact credit-hour breakdown and any prerequisite content exams. Washington's Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) also publishes endorsement competencies that this program is designed to satisfy.

Higher Education and Student Affairs Pathway

For those aiming to work in college administration, academic advising, or student services, the higher education concentration offers coursework in organizational theory, student development, and policy analysis. Graduates commonly pursue roles in enrollment management, residence life, or career services. Saint Martin's program likely integrates practical experiences such as internships or capstone projects. Connect with the program coordinator to confirm current requirements and elective options.

Adult Education and Professional Development

Designed for educators who teach in community colleges, corporate training, or nonprofit settings, this specialization emphasizes adult learning theory, instructional design, and program evaluation. Coursework may explore how adults acquire skills differently than younger students and how to assess learning outcomes in workplace or continuing education environments. Verify with the university whether this track requires a thesis or comprehensive exam.

Special Education Endorsement Preparation

Addressing the persistent shortage of special education teachers in Washington, this path adds an endorsement to an existing teaching license or can be embedded within the MAT. You can expect content covering inclusive practices, assessment for exceptional learners, and legal frameworks like IDEA. Because state endorsement requirements evolve, check the OSPI website for current standards and contact Saint Martin's for a detailed program of study.

Accreditation bodies such as the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) provide quality benchmarks that many programs, including those at Saint Martin's, reference in their design. For authoritative career outlook data, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) offers projections on growth in teaching and education administration roles. However, the most reliable source for curriculum specifics is the Saint Martin's University School of Education office, which can supply an official program handbook and answer questions about course sequences, prerequisites, and elective offerings.

Flexible Online and On-Campus Learning Formats

The rise of synchronous online learning has reshaped graduate education, and Saint Martin's University's M.Ed. programs reflect this shift by offering a fully online, interactive format that mirrors the collaborative experience of a traditional classroom.

Synchronous Online Classes with Live Evening Sessions

All M.Ed. courses at Saint Martin's are delivered through synchronous online instruction. Students log in at scheduled times for live virtual classes that take place in the evenings, making it feasible to balance work and study. These sessions use real-time video conferencing and collaborative tools to foster lively discussions, small-group breakouts, and direct engagement with faculty and peers. Because the format is fully online and requires no on-campus residencies, you can participate from anywhere in Washington or beyond while still building strong professional relationships.

Built for Working Professionals

Saint Martin's designed this program specifically for educators and other full-time professionals who need a predictable, manageable schedule, a key part of balancing teaching and grad school. Courses follow a streamlined calendar of three terms per year: summer, fall, and spring, with enrollment possible throughout the year. This year-round structure lets you start when it is convenient and progress steadily without long breaks. The evening timing of classes ensures that your workday is not interrupted, and the synchronous model keeps you accountable while providing the structure many working adults need to stay on track.

One-Year Completion Path

Most students complete their M.Ed. in just 12 months of full-time study, moving at a pace that aligns with the three-term structure. Because the program is cohort-based and synchronous, you follow a clear sequence of courses alongside the same group of classmates, which fosters peer support and networking. For those who need a slower pace, the university offers flexibility to extend the timeline while still taking advantage of evening, year-round courses.

Technology and Student Support

To succeed in this online environment, you will need a reliable computer, high-speed internet, and basic familiarity with common software tools. Saint Martin's provides access to its learning management system, video conferencing platforms, and dedicated technical support. Academic advisors and online orientation resources help you navigate the virtual classroom from day one, so you can focus on learning rather than troubleshooting.

Questions to Ask Yourself

M.ed. Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid

Saint Martin's University publishes transparent per-credit tuition rates for its graduate education programs on its tuition and fees page. For the 2026-2027 academic year, the standard Master of Education (M.Ed.) tuition is $1,330 per credit hour. Students in the M.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Affairs (MED-HESA) benefit from a slightly lower rate of $1,260 per credit hour. All graduate courses also carry a textbook and program fee of $23.75 per credit, which covers required materials.

Estimating Your Total Program Cost

Most M.Ed. programs at Saint Martin's require between 30 and 36 credits. At the standard $1,330 rate, a 30-credit program yields a tuition total of $39,900; adding the textbook fee brings the overall academic cost to $40,612.50. For the MED-HESA at 30 credits, tuition and fees combine to $38,512.50. A 36-credit M.Ed. totals $48,735 with fees, while a 36-credit MED-HESA reaches $46,215. These figures do not include additional university fees, housing, or personal expenses, but they give a clear baseline for financial planning.

For comparison, the Master in Teaching (MIT) program follows a distinct structure. Institutionally reported data shows a total tuition cost of $17,332 for the entire MIT program, regardless of residency. Prospective students should confirm credit requirements and any program-specific fees with the Office of Graduate Admissions.

Financial Aid and Funding Options

Saint Martin's participates in the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan program, which is available to graduate students enrolled at least half-time (typically six credits per term).¹ To apply, students must complete the FAFSA and work with the financial aid office at 360-688-2150 or [email protected].²

Beyond federal loans, the university encourages graduate students to explore additional funding sources:

• Graduate assistantships: Competitive positions that provide a stipend and may include tuition remission. These are often awarded within academic departments.
• Institutional scholarships: Saint Martin's offers scholarships specifically for educators, though award amounts and criteria vary by program.
• Military benefits: Active-duty service members, veterans, and eligible dependents can apply for GI Bill benefits and tuition assistance. The university's Office of Veteran Education Benefits guides applicants through the certification process.
• Employer tuition reimbursement: Many school districts and educational organizations in Washington offer tuition assistance for employees pursuing advanced degrees. Students should check with their human resources department.
• Deferred payment plans: Saint Martin's provides installment plans that allow students to spread tuition payments over the semester, reducing the upfront burden.

All students are advised to contact the financial aid office early to assemble a funding package that combines loans, grants, scholarships, and employer benefits. Planning ahead can make a Saint Martin's graduate degree both affordable and achievable.

What You Can Earn: M.ed. Graduate Salary Highlights

Program-level earnings for Saint Martin's M.Ed. are not yet reported, but the university's graduates see strong returns.

Career Outcomes and Earnings for Saint Martin's Graduates

Saint Martin's University graduate education programs open doors to rewarding careers across teaching, leadership, and specialized roles, with strong earnings potential and a clear return on investment.

Earnings and Employment Data

While program-level earnings for recent Master in Teaching graduates are not yet published, Saint Martin's overall student outcomes tell a compelling story. The university's median earnings ten years after entry stand at $62,092, with a net price of $28,119 for the institution. These figures suggest solid earning power for graduates launching careers in education and related fields.

Typical Career Paths by Specialization

• Master in Teaching: Elementary school teacher, middle or high school teacher, ESL/ELL instructor, reading/literacy teacher¹. Common employers include K-12 public school districts, state education agencies, and non-profit education organizations².
• M.Ed. in Special Education: Special education teacher, inclusion specialist, behavior specialist, assistive technology specialist³. Graduates work in public school districts, regional cooperatives, and clinical settings⁴.
• M.Ed. in Higher Education: Academic advisor, admissions counselor, student affairs professional, community college instructor. Employers range from community colleges to regional universities and private colleges⁵.
• M.Ed. in Adult Education: Corporate trainer, instructional designer, adult education instructor, career coach. Opportunities exist in corporations, government agencies, non-profits, and EdTech companies. National median pay for corporate trainers was $66,490 in 2022⁶.

Return on Investment

The Master in Teaching program carries a total tuition of approximately $34,664 over two years. When measured against median earnings, the program's ROI ratio reaches 2.76, meaning graduates earn nearly three times the cost of their degree within a few years of completion, making the payback period remarkably short.

Northwest Employer Connections

Saint Martin's partners with over 30 school districts across Washington, giving students direct access to clinical placements, networking, and hiring pipelines. This regional footprint strengthens employment prospects immediately upon licensure, particularly in high-demand areas like special education and ELL instruction.

M.ed. Admissions Requirements and Application Steps

What does it take to get into Saint Martin's University's M.Ed. programs, and when are the deadlines?

Admission to Saint Martin's Master of Education (M.Ed.) programs is straightforward, with clear requirements and multiple start dates to accommodate your schedule. The process emphasizes academic readiness and professional experience, and the university does not require GRE scores for any M.Ed. pathway.

GPA Standards and Conditional Admission

The baseline minimum undergraduate GPA for most M.Ed. specializations is 3.0.¹ Each program may have its own threshold; for example, the M.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Affairs accepts applicants with a 2.75 GPA. If your GPA falls slightly below the requirement, reach out to an admission counselor; conditional admission may be an option on a case-by-case basis.

No GRE Required

Saint Martin's does not require GRE scores for admission to any M.Ed. program. This simplifies the application process and allows you to focus on demonstrating your teaching or leadership potential through other materials. If you have GRE scores, you may submit them, but they are not evaluated as part of the admission decision.

Application Deadlines and Start Terms

You can begin studies in fall, spring, or summer. The priority application deadline for domestic students is July 15 for fall entry, but rolling admissions may continue as space allows. International applicants should submit all materials by June 1 to allow time for visa processing. Check with the Graduate Admissions office for spring and summer deadlines, which are typically several months before the term begins.

Required Materials Checklist

To complete your application, you'll need to submit the following through the online portal:

• Bachelor's degree: An official transcript showing completion of a regionally accredited bachelor's degree.¹
• Work experience: At least one year of relevant professional experience is expected, though new teachers with strong undergraduate records are considered.
• Personal statement: A written essay explaining your goals for graduate study and how the M.Ed. aligns with your career aspirations.
• Letters of recommendation: Typically two letters from academic or professional references who can speak to your ability to succeed in graduate-level work.
• Résumé: A current document highlighting your education, certifications, teaching or leadership roles, and volunteer work.

International applicants must also demonstrate English proficiency with a minimum TOEFL score of 79, IELTS of 6.5, or Duolingo of 100.¹

Washington Teacher Certification and Licensure Pathways

Teacher certification in Washington means meeting state requirements to become a licensed educator, whether you are starting from scratch or adding new qualifications. Saint Martin’s University, one of the best master's in education programs in Washington, offers distinct pathways depending on your current status: some programs lead directly to an initial teaching certificate, while others build on an existing license with endorsements or leadership credentials.

Which Programs Lead to Initial Teaching Certification?

The Master in Teaching (MIT) is the only graduate program at Saint Martin’s designed for candidates who do not already hold a Washington teaching certificate. It combines a bachelor’s degree prerequisite with full teacher preparation, including student teaching, and culminates in a residency teaching certificate. The university’s 4+1 pathway also provides a streamlined route to initial licensure by bundling undergraduate and graduate coursework for qualifying students.²

In contrast, the general Master of Education (M.Ed.) does not lead to an initial certificate. Instead, it serves educators who are already licensed and want to deepen their practice or move into leadership roles.¹ If you need a first-time credential, focus on the MIT rather than the M.Ed.

Endorsement and Add-on Programs for Current Educators

For certified teachers, Saint Martin’s offers several M.Ed. specializations that lead to Washington endorsements. The M.Ed. in Inclusive Education results in a special education endorsement, while the M.Ed. in English Language Learners yields an ELL endorsement. Both programs assume you already hold a teaching certificate and embed all required coursework for the endorsement area. The M.Ed. in K-12 Administration prepares you for principal or program administrator certification, but it also requires a valid Washington teaching certificate as a prerequisite.¹

The Certification Pathway: Requirements and Exams

Earning an initial certificate through the MIT involves several steps. You must hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA, complete the program’s coursework and student teaching placement, and pass the teacher certification exams (which vary by subject area) designated by the state. Washington also mandates additional coursework in Pacific Northwest History and professional issues and abuse, which the MIT curriculum includes.² For add-on endorsements via the M.Ed., the program itself embeds the necessary content and clinical experiences, so candidates typically do not need to pursue separate exam sequences beyond what the degree requires.

Reciprocity for Out-of-State Educators

Washington does not guarantee teacher license reciprocity with other states, and Saint Martin’s programs are aligned primarily with Washington licensure standards.³ Educators holding a license from another state should contact the Washington Professional Educator Standards Board to determine what additional steps, such as specific exams or coursework, might be needed. The university can provide program documentation, but the final determination rests with the state.

Alternative Routes: The 4+1 Pathway

The 4+1 pathway is an accelerated option for current undergraduate students at Saint Martin’s who want to earn initial certification. By blending undergraduate and graduate courses, it allows you to complete a bachelor’s and a Master in Teaching in a condensed timeframe, moving directly into student teaching and then certification. This route is ideal if you are already enrolled at Saint Martin’s and know early that you want to teach.²

Meet the Faculty: Expert Educators Shaping the M.ed. Experience

The M.Ed. experience at Saint Martin's is shaped by faculty who blend scholarly expertise with a deep commitment to mentorship and equity. Unlike programs where students are one of many in a lecture hall, here you work closely with dedicated educators who know your name and your goals.

Jackie Clark: Championing First-Generation Students and Higher Education Equity

• Role: Associate Professor and director of the M.Ed. in Higher Education & Student Affairs.¹
• Focus: Clark examines professional practice in higher education, with an emphasis on liberal arts colleges and the experiences of first-generation students. Her teaching and scholarship center equity, preparing graduates to lead inclusive campus environments.
• Curriculum connection: Her work directly shapes the Higher Education & Student Affairs concentration, ensuring coursework tackles real challenges in student support, access, and retention.

Kathleen Boyle: A Dean with a Counseling Heart and Leadership Vision

• Background: Dean of the College of Education & Counseling Psychology,² Boyle holds a master's in counseling and student personnel and a doctorate in educational leadership and policy studies.
• Awards: Recipient of St. Thomas' Common Good Award and the Linda Schrempp Alberg Award from the Minnesota College Personnel Association.
• Impact: Boyle's blend of counseling and leadership infuses the M.Ed. programs with a focus on organizational well-being and ethical decision-making, particularly relevant for students pursuing principal or program administrator paths.

Kathleen Allen: Building Practical Pedagogy for Real Classrooms

• Role: Professor and department chair of Applied Pedagogy since 2016.³
• Expertise: Allen bridges theory and practice, equipping educators with immediately usable instructional strategies. Her leadership ensures that coursework stays grounded in the day-to-day realities of K-12 and higher education settings.
• Strength: This applied emphasis is woven into all specializations, from special education to curriculum design.

Faculty mentorship is a hallmark of Saint Martin's graduate education. With small class sizes that rarely exceed 20 students, you receive individualized feedback, career guidance, and opportunities to collaborate on projects. The college's deep ties to local school districts and community organizations also open doors for field experiences and research partnerships that extend learning well beyond the campus.

Graduates of Saint Martin's M.Ed. programs report high employment rates and strong salary outcomes, demonstrating a clear return on investment for aspiring educators.

Saint Martin's University Rankings and Academic Reputation

As education degree holders increasingly weigh return on investment, the rankings that matter most now emphasize affordability, social mobility, and graduate outcomes. Saint Martin’s University has earned multiple distinctions that speak directly to these priorities, particularly for graduate students entering the education field.

Recognitions That Matter for Educators

According to U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 rankings, Saint Martin’s placed #56 among Regional Universities West. The same outlet also recognized the university as a Best Value School (#20) and a top performer on social mobility (#53), highlighting how well the institution supports students from all backgrounds in achieving career success. For veterans, Saint Martin’s landed at #30 in the region.¹ Academic Influence, which ranks schools based on faculty and alumni impact, named Saint Martin’s the #1 graduate school in Washington State for 2026. College Factual’s 2024 analysis placed the university’s master’s programs at #15 within the state, reflecting a solid position among Washington institutions.

Accreditation: A Foundation of Quality

The university holds regional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), which ensures broad institutional quality and access to federal financial aid.⁴ Even more relevant for your degree search, the graduate teacher education programs are accredited through the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), a rigorous specialty credential that signals the curriculum meets national standards for preparing effective teachers and school leaders. Washington’s Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) also approves the teacher preparation pathway, a must for in-state licensure.⁶

A Legacy of Ethical Leadership in the Northwest

For decades, Saint Martin’s has cultivated a reputation across the Pacific Northwest as a training ground for ethical, service-oriented educators. Rooted in Benedictine values, the College of Education and Counseling emphasizes compassion, community engagement, and cultural responsiveness: qualities that local school districts consistently seek in new hires. This long-standing regional identity, combined with consistent recognition for value and graduate impact, makes the university a practical choice for aspiring teachers and administrators who want to stay and serve in Washington.

Frequently Asked Questions About Saint Martin's M.ed. Programs

Prospective graduate students often have questions about program specifics, costs, and outcomes. Below are answers to common inquiries, along with resources to help you find the most current information directly from Saint Martin's University and relevant state and federal agencies.

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