Advance Your Teaching Career with a Benedictine College M.Ed.

Founded in 1858 in Atchison, Kansas, Benedictine College’s School of Education prepares reflective, ethical educators through a graduate mission rooted in Catholic and Benedictine traditions.

Its two core pathways: a Master of Education (M.Ed.) with specializations like Curriculum and Instruction, and a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), accommodate working teachers aiming for salary advancement, licensure renewal, or leadership roles. Evening, hybrid, and on-campus formats let educators continue their classroom obligations.

In education, where a master’s degree adds over $5,000 to annual earnings nationally, the credential is both a professional safeguard and a long-term investment.

M.ed. Specializations at Benedictine College: From Curriculum & Instruction to Teaching (MAT)

What M.Ed. specializations does Benedictine College offer, and how does its Curriculum and Instruction track prepare you for advanced classroom and leadership roles? If you are weighing a master’s degree that strengthens both your teaching practice and your career trajectory, this overview maps the graduate education pathways at Benedictine and what to look for when you compare options.

A Look at Benedictine’s Graduate Education Portfolio

Benedictine College’s School of Education designs its master’s programs for working educators who want to deepen their expertise while continuing to serve students. The college typically organizes graduate offerings around a Master of Education (M.Ed.) and a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), each serving a distinct professional need.

• M.Ed. for practicing teachers: Usually built for licensed educators seeking to advance into roles like instructional coach, curriculum coordinator, or department chair. Common focus areas include Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, and Special Education, though the exact list evolves each academic year.
• MAT for career changers: Designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in another field who want to earn initial teaching licensure alongside a master’s degree. This route often blends content-area coursework with clinical experiences in partner schools.

Because program offerings and catalog details can shift, the most reliable snapshot lives in Benedictine’s graduate catalog and on the School of Education website. Bookmark those pages rather than relying on third-party summaries.

Inside the Curriculum and Instruction Track

The masters in curriculum and instruction specialization, often the most popular M.Ed. option at institutions like Benedictine, prepares educators to design, implement, and evaluate instructional programs. While exact course names and sequencing belong to the current catalog, a typical Curriculum and Instruction concentration covers several core domains:

• Pedagogy and learning theory: Courses that examine how students learn and how to translate research into classroom practice, often with attention to diverse learners.
• Curriculum design and assessment: Training in mapping standards, building unit and lesson plans, and creating formative and summative assessments that guide instruction.
• Data-driven decision making: Methods for analyzing student performance data to adjust teaching strategies and improve outcomes.
• Field experience or capstone project: Many programs require an applied project, such as a curriculum overhaul, action research study, or portfolio, that connects theory to real classrooms.

Some Curriculum and Instruction tracks may lead to additional endorsements, such as reading specialist or English as a second language, but this depends entirely on state requirements and how Benedictine configures its program. To get a definitive answer on endorsements, reach out to the admissions office at [email protected] and request a program guide for the track you are considering.

Licensure, Endorsements, and State Alignment

Benedictine College sits in Atchison, Kansas, so its educator preparation programs are aligned with the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) standards. If you plan to teach or add endorsements in another state, such as masters in education oregon, you need to review reciprocity agreements and any additional testing or coursework that may be required. The KSDE website (ksde.org) and professional organizations like the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) provide reliable guidance on multi-state portability.

Getting the Specifics That Matter Most

While this article outlines the general shape of Benedictine’s M.Ed. and MAT pathways, your best move is to gather details firsthand. Request the latest information packet from the graduate admissions team, verify credit-hour requirements and core courses, and ask about program outcomes such as licensure pass rates. For longer-term career planning, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov) offers projections and salary data for teaching and instructional coordination roles, helping you weigh the return on your investment.

Flexible Learning Options: Online, Evening, or On-Campus?

Choosing between the convenience of fully remote study and the cohort-based, high-touch model that Benedictine College emphasizes is the central tension for working educators considering a master's degree. Benedictine does not currently offer a 100% online, asynchronous M.Ed. option.¹ Instead, its graduate education programs blend structured in-person or live virtual components with flexible coursework, accommodating professional schedules while preserving the community-focused Benedictine experience.

Which Programs Are Fully Online?

No Benedictine M.Ed. specialization is delivered entirely through asynchronous online modules. Every pathway includes either a residential summer component, synchronous virtual class meetings, or required field-based practicum hours. This design reflects the college's commitment to personal mentorship and collaborative learning.

Classical Education: A Summer Intensive Model

The Master of Arts in Classical Education, available for both teachers and administrators, uses a hybrid format. Students attend a two-week summer intensive on the Atchison campus, then continue with online coursework during the fall and spring semesters. This structure allows educators to immerse themselves in campus life for a concentrated period and return home to complete the degree while teaching full-time. The online portion offers some flexibility, but the timing of the residential intensive is fixed.

Educational Leadership: Live Virtual with Practicum

The Master of Arts in School Leadership (MASL) pathway operates through synchronous virtual class sessions, likely scheduled in the evening to suit working professionals. Because the sessions are live, students must be available during those set times rather than progressing at their own pace. The program also requires a practicum, meaning candidates will complete fieldwork in a school setting, an inherently in-person obligation.

What About Evening and Weekend Schedules?

Benedictine intentionally schedules the synchronous virtual meetings for the Educational Leadership program at standard after-work hours. The Classical Education summer intensive, however, runs full-time during a two-week window, which may require taking personal or professional leave. For programs like the Master of Arts in Teaching or Curriculum and Instruction, delivery formats may lean more heavily on on-campus evening courses or embedded field experiences, though the specific schedule should be confirmed through the graduate catalog.

In-Person Requirements Beyond the Classroom

Any M.Ed. that leads to state licensure, such as the MAT, will entail student teaching or practicum hours in a K, 12 setting, which cannot be fulfilled online. Even for non-licensure tracks like Classical Education, the on-campus summer residency is non-negotiable. These in-person elements are central to the college’s philosophy of forming educators in a supportive, face-to-face community.

Benedictine’s graduate education programs are designed for professionals who value a close-knit cohort and mentor interactions, even if that means trading some flexibility. Prospective students should carefully weigh the calendar commitments against their work and family obligations.

What a Benedictine College M.ed. Costs: Tuition and Fees Breakdown

Standard graduate tuition at Benedictine College sits at $325 per credit hour¹, but teachers in Catholic schools qualify for a reduced rate of $300 per credit , a difference that can trim over $900 from the total program cost. Both the Master of Arts in Classical Education (MACE) and the Master of Arts in Catholic Leadership (MACL) follow this same per-credit structure², making it easy to budget if you know your enrollment intensity.

Tuition at a Glance

• Standard per-credit cost: $325
• Discounted per-credit cost (Catholic school teachers): $300
• Total credits required: 36
• Total program cost (standard): $11,700
• Total program cost (discounted): $10,800

The discounted rate applies automatically for eligible educators teaching in Catholic schools, effectively lowering the degree’s sticker price without a separate application. If you’re switching between full-time and part-time enrollment, costs scale directly with the number of credits you take each term.

Additional Program Fees and Indirect Costs

The per-credit tuition does not include mandatory course or program fees, which the college assesses separately. Benedictine’s official materials note that “additional course and program fees are assessed,”¹ so you should contact the bursar’s office for a current fee schedule. Common fees at graduate programs include technology, activity, or student-services charges.

Indirect costs add another layer. Budget for:

• Books and materials: Roughly $1,000, $2,000 over the entire program, depending on whether you buy new, used, or digital versions.
• Technology: A reliable computer and internet connection are essential, especially for online or hybrid courses.
• Commuting or travel: If you attend on-campus sessions, factor in transportation and parking; these are minimal for fully online students.

Because delivery modes include online and on-campus options, indirect costs vary. Online students often save on commuting but may need a more robust home office setup.

Financial Aid and Payment Options

Benedictine College participates in federal aid programs, so submitting the FAFSA is the first step toward eligibility for federal loans. Many graduate students also pursue:

• Employer tuition reimbursement: School districts or dioceses sometimes cover a portion of tuition, especially for degrees tied to professional licensure or leadership roles.
• Graduate assistantships or M.Ed. scholarships: While less common at the master’s level, some institutional aid may be available; inquire with the graduate education office.
• Payment plans: Spreading payments over a semester or academic year can ease cash flow without additional borrowing.

The Catholic-school discount itself functions like a built-in scholarship, but it only applies to the per-credit rate , it does not waive fees. Stacking employer reimbursement with the discounted rate, or exploring tuition-free teacher education options, can significantly lower your out-of-pocket cost.

Comparing Costs: What You Actually Pay

Sticker prices rarely tell the whole story. A student paying the full $11,700 and adding $1,500 in fees and books might spend around $13,200. However, a Catholic-school teacher using the discounted rate, employer reimbursement for half, and a modest book budget could complete the degree for under $5,000.

Costs also shift with enrollment intensity. Taking two courses per semester instead of three stretches the program duration but keeps per-semester bills lower. Conversely, accelerating through summer terms may raise annual costs while shortening the time to graduation.

Because actual expenses depend on your mix of aid, enrollment pace, and living situation, the best next step is to contact Benedictine’s financial aid office. They can provide a personalized estimate that accounts for fees, discounts, and any outside funding you bring to the table.

Benedictine College M.ed. Admissions: Your Step-By-Step Application Guide

Benedictine College offers a straightforward application process for its graduate education programs. Use this checklist to ensure you submit a complete application.

• Complete a Bachelor’s Degree

  A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required for all graduate education programs.
• Meet the Minimum GPA

  Undergraduate GPAs between 2.75 and 3.0 are needed. The School Leadership program requires a 3.0; Catholic Education and MAT programs accept a 2.75.
• Gather Official Transcripts

  Submit official transcripts from every college or university you have attended.
• Secure Letters of Recommendation

  Most programs require two letters from academic or professional references who can attest to your potential as a graduate student and educator.
• Write a Statement of Purpose

  A personal essay outlining your career goals and how Benedictine’s program aligns with your professional aspirations is typically required.
• Prepare a Professional Résumé

  Include a current résumé or CV highlighting your education, teaching experience, and relevant work history.
• Verify Teaching Credentials (If Applicable)

  The School Leadership program requires a valid teaching license and at least one year of teaching experience. MAT applicants may need a background check and a bachelor’s in the content area.
• Submit Your Application by the Deadline

  Benedictine reviews applications on a rolling basis with fall, spring, and summer starts. The priority deadline for fall enrollment is April 1.
• Check Exam Requirements

  No GRE or MAT is required for most programs. The MAT in Secondary Education requires a passing score on the Praxis content test.

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Accreditation: Is Benedictine College's Education Program Legit?

Accreditation is a quality assurance process that confirms a college or program meets established standards. For aspiring educators, understanding both institutional and programmatic accreditation is key before enrolling. Benedictine College’s Master’s in Education programs check the right boxes in the ways that matter most for your teaching career.

Institutional Accreditation: Backed by the Higher Learning Commission

Benedictine College holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), one of the major accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.¹ This status applies to the entire institution, including graduate programs. HLC accreditation is the critical baseline: it enables federal financial aid, supports credit transfer to other accredited schools, and assures employers your degree carries weight.

Specialized Accreditation for the Education Programs

Historically, Benedictine’s teacher preparation programs were recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), a legacy accreditor that later merged with others to form CAEP.² Today, the college does not advertise active CAEP accreditation for its Master’s in Education. However, the programs are fully approved by the Kansas State Board of Education as of September 2021.³ For licensure, state approval is the legal requirement; CAEP can signal quality but isn’t mandatory. Benedictine’s state-approved status means its curriculum aligns with Kansas standards for initial teaching licenses.

Licensure Impact and Reciprocity

Graduates from Benedictine’s state-approved M.Ed. pathways are eligible to apply for teaching licensure in Kansas. If you plan to teach in another state, teacher license reciprocity rules come into play. Many states will issue a comparable license to candidates who completed a regionally accredited, state-approved program, though additional exams or coursework may be required. Benedictine’s HLC accreditation helps streamline this process,¹ but you should contact your home state’s education department to confirm specific requirements.

Online Program Authorization

Benedictine’s online M.Ed. offerings are delivered under its Kansas authorizations. For out-of-state online students, the college likely participates in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) or holds individual state authorizations to legally operate. Always verify with the college’s education office that the online program meets the licensure criteria in your state before you enroll.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Where a Benedictite M.ed. Can Take You: Jobs, Salaries, and Alumni Impact

What can you do with a Benedictine College Master's in Education, and what salary can you expect after graduation?

Earnings Snapshot: What M.Ed. Graduates Can Expect

Benedictine College education master's graduates see strong financial returns. According to the most recent institutional data, the median annual wage for education alumni is approximately $53,300, with a typical salary range from $21,800 for entry-level positions to $53,800 for experienced professionals. The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program, in particular, reports median earnings of $53,175, demonstrating a solid return on the degree investment. Over a decade, average cumulative earnings settle around $45,000 per year, reflecting the progressive pay scale increases that come with advanced degrees and experience in the field.

When placed in context, these figures are competitive. The national unemployment rate for recent college graduates ages 22-27 is 5.8% in 2026,² and Benedictine's education-specific outcomes often outpace general employment benchmarks. With a student debt load of roughly $24,600, the degree's return on investment is favorable, yielding an earnings-to-debt ratio that helps graduates manage loan repayment comfortably.

Career Paths: From Classroom Teacher to Leadership Roles

A master's from Benedictine opens doors well beyond the standard teaching position. Graduates commonly move into teacher leadership roles such as curriculum specialist, instructional coach, lead teacher, department chair, or academic dean, positions that typically require a graduate degree and come with higher pay scales. In Kansas and many other states, a master's degree automatically bumps a teacher up on the salary schedule, often adding $5,000 to $10,000 annually, and the leadership perks can increase that further.

The job placement numbers back this up: an impressive 97% of Benedictine education alumni are employed within one year of graduation, and 91% remain employed five years later, far above the 85% national six-month employment rate for recent bachelor's graduates.¹ This suggests not only that grads find work quickly, but that their careers have staying power. About half of all recent graduates nationwide find jobs in education and health services,² a sector where Benedictine's network and reputation give its alumni an edge.

For those who want to take their skills beyond K-12, the M.Ed. also prepares you for non-teaching jobs for teachers, including corporate training, educational consulting, curriculum design for edtech firms, or instructional coordination in healthcare and nonprofits. The analytical and leadership skills honed in the program are transferable, and the college's 94% alumni network satisfaction rate means you'll have ongoing professional support long after commencement.

Alumni Success and Real-World Impact

Benedictine College's emphasis on mentorship and small class sizes translates into confident, well-prepared graduates. Post-graduation surveys show that 88% of alumni feel confident they found a job in their field of study, and 94% express satisfaction with the alumni network. While specific salary data for every specialization isn't available, the broader outcomes signal that graduates are landing roles where they can make a difference, whether that's teaching in a rural Kansas district, leading curriculum development for a charter school, or training employees in a private company.

One standout feature is the College's Master of Arts in Teaching, a hybrid program designed for career-changers without a prior education degree. It leads directly to a Kansas teaching license and focuses on in-demand subjects, helping graduates quickly enter high-need areas. Graduates of this program often report rapid job placement in local schools, thanks to built-in clinical experiences and strong school partnerships.

Collectively, these outcomes paint a clear picture: a Benedictine education master's degree is not just a credential; it's a career accelerator that pays off financially and professionally, with a supportive community behind you every step of the way.

Program-level earnings one year after graduation for Benedictine College education graduates are not yet available in the latest federal data.

Frequently Asked Questions About Benedictine College M.ed. Programs

Find quick answers to common questions about Benedictine College's graduate education programs, including accreditation, cost, online options, and licensure pathways.

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