Master's in Education at DePaul University: Programs & Specializations

Twenty-three distinct M.Ed. programs make DePaul University a leading choice for Chicago educators seeking career advancement, with specializations in Curriculum & Instruction, Educational Leadership, Special Education, and subject-area teaching. DePaul offers these through online, on-campus, and hybrid formats, fitting graduate study around the demands of a teaching career.

In Illinois, licensing requirements continue to tighten, making an advanced degree the threshold for adding endorsements, moving into curriculum leadership, or qualifying for higher salary lanes. For Chicago-area educators, the program they choose directly shapes which career doors open next.

Depaul’s College of Education: What Sets It Apart

Does DePaul's College of Education have CAEP accreditation? As of 2024, the College of Education is not accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), the national benchmark for educator preparation programs. Instead, DePaul University holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, and its teacher preparation programs are fully approved by the Illinois State Board of Education. For aspiring teachers in Illinois, this state approval is the critical credential: it qualifies graduates for initial licensure and is widely respected by district employers. The absence of CAEP accreditation may pose a hurdle for those seeking licensure reciprocity in other states, as some require CAEP as part of their review. Graduates who intend to teach in Illinois can be confident in the program's legitimacy and local standing, but out-of-state candidates should verify individual state requirements.

A College Rooted in Chicago's Educational Landscape

DePaul’s College of Education has been preparing educators for more than a century, and its identity is deeply woven into the fabric of Chicago. The college’s mission centers on urban education, social justice, and meaningful partnerships with Chicago Public Schools and surrounding districts. These relationships are not just symbolic: clinical field experiences are a cornerstone of every M.Ed. program, immersing students in diverse classrooms where they learn to address equity gaps and cultural responsiveness head-on. Faculty research often tackles community-engaged questions, and many courses incorporate service-learning projects that connect theory directly to practice. This focus on “hands-on, minds-on” learning means graduates are well-prepared for the realities of teaching in an urban environment.

Programs Designed for the Working Professional

A defining feature of DePaul’s M.Ed. is its deliberate scheduling for in-service teachers. The majority of classes are held in the evenings, on weekends, or in accelerated formats, allowing full-time educators to advance their degrees without leaving their current roles. Select programs also offer online and hybrid delivery, further reducing the need for on-campus commutes. The college’s faculty blends scholarly achievement with years of practical classroom expertise, so coursework remains both theoretically grounded and immediately applicable. This design, paired with the built-in network of Chicago school partners, means students often find their learning intersects directly with their day-to-day work, making the investment in a master’s degree feel both manageable and directly career-relevant.

The Job Market for Educators in Chicago and the Metro Area

For educators in the Chicago metro area, the job market presents a balancing act between plentiful openings and the competitive edge needed to secure the most rewarding positions. With over 270,000 educational instruction and library jobs across the region, the scale of opportunity is clear; however, districts increasingly seek candidates with specialized master's-level training.

A Large and Diverse Education Sector

The Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metro area, which includes cities such as Joliet, Aurora, Evanston, and Naperville, hosts one of the country's largest concentrations of education professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the region employed 270,560 workers in educational instruction and library occupations in 2023, with a mean annual wage of $66,140.¹ This workforce spans hundreds of public and private schools, early childhood centers, and postsecondary institutions. The broader education and health services sector topped 800,000 jobs,³ underscoring the metro area's deep institutional demand for qualified educators.

High-Demand Specializations

While overall teacher growth is steady, certain specialties face persistent shortages. Illinois school districts report acute needs in special education, bilingual education, and STEM fields. Nationally, special education teachers account for about 33,500 annual openings², while elementary and secondary teaching roles add hundreds of thousands more. These high-need areas align directly with DePaul University's M.Ed. specializations, including Special Education, Bilingual/ESL Education, and STEM-focused Curriculum & Instruction.

Salary Ranges for Educators

Earning potential varies significantly by role. K-12 teachers in the Chicago area typically earn between $55,000 and $95,000¹, depending on experience and district. Curriculum and instruction specialists, who often hold M.Ed. degrees, see salaries ranging from $70,000 to $95,000¹. For those who move into administration, K-12 education administrators command a mean annual wage of $119,040, with experienced leaders earning up to $140,000¹. These figures demonstrate the financial benefits of advanced credentials.

How a DePaul M.Ed. Positions You for Success

DePaul's College of Education designs its M.Ed. programs to meet local demand. Whether you pursue Curriculum & Instruction, Educational Leadership, or a specialized strand like Special Education, the curriculum emphasizes practical skills that Chicago-area employers value. Clinical experiences and partnerships with area schools create a direct pipeline to roles across the metro region. Earning your master's from DePaul not only deepens your expertise but also unlocks higher pay brackets and leadership opportunities, making a master's in education worth it in a competitive market.

Delivery Formats: Online, On-Campus, and Hybrid M.ed. Options

DePaul University’s College of Education provides multiple delivery formats to accommodate working teachers and aspiring educators. Most M.Ed. specializations are offered online, on-campus, or in a hybrid configuration. Online courses are typically asynchronous, allowing students to complete coursework on their own schedule, while hybrid programs blend face-to-face sessions with online learning. This flexibility enables students to maintain employment and balance personal responsibilities while pursuing their degree.

For example, the Master’s in Reading and Literacy is available entirely online, reflecting a broader trend in literacy education degree programs. Other specializations, such as educational leadership or special education, may be completed on campus or through a mix of online and in-person class meetings. Some programs also utilize synchronous virtual sessions to foster real-time interaction with faculty and peers.

DePaul’s commitment to quality remains consistent across formats: the same faculty teach online and on-campus courses, and the curriculum is identical. Students have access to the university’s academic resources and support services, regardless of delivery method. This ensures that graduates are well-prepared for licensure and career advancement in Illinois and beyond.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid for Depaul’s M.ed. Programs

What will a DePaul M.Ed. actually cost you in 2026‑2027? The bottom line starts with the official graduate per‑credit rate for the College of Education: $759 per credit hour this academic year. That figure comes directly from the university’s published Graduate and Professional Tuition and Fees schedule and applies to all Master of Education courses, whether you attend online, on campus, or in a hybrid format.

How Much Does DePaul’s M.Ed. Cost Per Credit?

• Base tuition: $759 per credit hour for all education graduate programs in 2026‑2027.
• Fees: General and course‑specific fees are minimal and baked into the per‑credit charge; there is no separate technology or online fee for distance learners.
• Credit variability: Keep in mind that total cost bends with your program. A 48‑credit M.Ed. will naturally cost less than a 52‑credit specialist track.

Estimated Total Program Costs

Using the $759 rate, here is how the math plays out for typical M.Ed. requirements:

• 48 credits (common for many concentrations): $36,432 total tuition.
• 52 credits (Curriculum Specialist concentration, for example): $39,468 total tuition.
• 52+ credits (some licensure tracks may exceed this): total climbs proportionally.

These estimates exclude books, supplies, and living costs. DePaul does not inflate out‑of‑state tuition for graduate education students; everyone pays the same per‑credit rate, which simplifies budgeting if you move or travel.

Scholarships, Grants, and Discounts

DePaul offers several M.Ed. scholarships and discounts that reduce the sticker price for education graduate students:

• Double Demon Scholarship: Graduates of DePaul’s undergraduate programs receive a 25% tuition discount on any graduate degree, certificate, or non‑degree coursework. No separate application is needed, you are automatically considered upon admission.
• Catholic College Alumni Discount: Alumni of U.S. Catholic colleges and universities get 10% off graduate and professional programs. Confirmation of undergraduate degree conferral is required during the admission process.
• Federal TEACH Grant: Education students who commit to teaching in a high‑need field at a low‑income school may qualify for up to $4,000 per year. This grant converts to a loan if service obligations are not met, so read the fine print carefully.
• External scholarships and loans: The FAFSA unlocks federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Graduate PLUS Loans. Many DePaul students also secure private education loans or apply for outside scholarships through professional organizations like the Illinois Education Association.

Graduate Assistantships and Employment‑Based Aid

A limited number of graduate assistantships are available through individual academic departments. These positions are competitive and typically offer a partial tuition waiver plus a small stipend in exchange for 10‑20 hours of research or administrative work each week. Reach out to the College of Education directly for current openings and application deadlines, as these are not centrally administered.

Employer Tuition Reimbursement and Next Steps

Many Chicago‑area school districts and private employers offer tuition reimbursement. If you work for a district that fully or partially funds graduate study, coordinate with DePaul’s Student Financial Accounts office to defer your bill, the university allows employers to pay directly once you submit a tuition voucher or authorization letter. To maximize aid, file your FAFSA early (the 2026‑2027 priority deadline is typically in January), and check the College of Education website for any new scholarship cycles that open each spring.

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Admission Requirements and How to Apply

What does it take to get into DePaul’s Master’s in Education program? The application process is designed to be straightforward, with a rolling admissions cycle and a clear set of requirements. Whether you are aiming for a master's in curriculum and instruction or a licensure-track pathway, the steps below will guide you.

Application Deadlines and Rolling Review

DePaul’s College of Education uses a rolling admissions model² for most M.Ed. programs, meaning applications are reviewed as they arrive and seats may fill well before a final deadline. For the best chance of securing a spot and financial aid, submit your materials early. While many programs accept applications on a continuous basis, some have firm cutoff dates: for example, the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership sets a fall 2026 deadline of August 15, 2026.⁴ Spring and summer entry terms are also available in many specializations; specific dates vary, so check your program’s page for the latest cutoff. In all cases, earlier filing is strongly encouraged.

What You’ll Need to Apply

The admission checklist covers these essentials: - Bachelor’s degree: A completed bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution is a non-negotiable prerequisite.¹ - GPA minimum: A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0¹ (on a 4.0 scale) is required. Some programs may look for a higher upward trend, and admitted students must maintain a 3.0¹ throughout the M.Ed. - Test scores: DePaul does not require the GRE or GMAT³ for any M.Ed. program. International applicants must submit proof of English proficiency: you will need a TOEFL iBT score of at least 96, an IELTS of 7.5, or a Duolingo English Test score of 130.¹ - Statement of purpose: Yes, a personal statement outlining your goals and interest in the field is required.⁵ - Letters of recommendation: You will need two letters from academic or professional references.⁵ - Résumé or CV: A current professional résumé is required.² - Official transcripts: Request sealed transcripts from every accredited institution you have attended. - Additional materials: Some concentrations may ask for a writing sample or an interview. Licensure-track programs (e.g., elementary or secondary education) often require a background check, documented prerequisite coursework, or evidence of prior teaching or classroom experience before you begin clinical hours.

The application fee is $40 for domestic applicants and $75 for international applicants.²

Selectivity and Your Chances

DePaul’s College of Education does not publish a separate acceptance rate for M.Ed. programs, but the university’s overall admission rate hovers around 70%⁵, suggesting a moderately welcoming profile. While the 3.0 GPA¹ serves as a floor, admission is holistic: strong statements, relevant experience, and solid recommendations can offset a borderline GPA. If your GPA falls slightly below the minimum, reach out to your program advisor; conditional admission or probationary terms may be available in limited cases, though this is not guaranteed. For the most competitive licensure concentrations, meeting the baseline may not always suffice, so presenting a well-rounded application is key.

Career Paths and Salary Outcomes for Depaul M.ed. Graduates

Earning a Master of Education from DePaul University is a strategic investment in your teaching career, and the financial outcomes reflect that value. While program-specific median earnings for DePaul’s M.Ed. specializations are not yet published in the latest federal data, DePaul’s own institutional outcomes reveal strong salary trajectories for master’s graduates. For example, the average starting salary for DePaul master’s graduates is $56,548. These figures underscore the earning potential that a graduate degree from DePaul can unlock, particularly for educators who leverage the degree to explore what you can do with a master’s in education beyond the classroom.

Placement Rates and Employment Sectors

DePaul’s College of Education has historically achieved high job placement rates, with 93% of master’s graduates employed in 2015 and 95% working in roles directly related to their field of study.² Education alumni often serve in mission-driven settings: 79% work in nonprofit organizations, 13% in service industries, and 8% in government, with just 1% in manufacturing, a pattern that aligns with the degree’s focus on public and community-oriented education.²

Comparing Salaries and Career Advancement

In the Chicago metro area, K-12 teacher salaries often start in the mid-$50,000s, but DePaul’s M.Ed. programs are designed to propel graduates beyond the classroom into roles with higher earning ceilings. With a master’s degree, you can pursue non-teaching jobs for teachers with a master’s degree such as curriculum specialist, instructional coordinator, principal, department chair, or district-level administrator. For example, instructional coordinators in Illinois typically earn median wages above $70,000, and educational administrators can command six-figure salaries, as reflected in master’s in education salary data. While the median annual wage for all DePaul College of Education master’s graduates in 2015 was $44,333, this figure reflects a mix of early-career and nonprofit-focused roles; leadership-track specializations like Educational Leadership reported median earnings of $60,000 that same year, and many graduates see salary growth with experience.²

Return on Investment

When you weigh the total cost of a DePaul M.Ed. against projected earnings, the return is compelling. For the Curriculum & Instruction program, total tuition is approximately $23,358. With the median annual wage for DePaul College of Education master’s graduates at $44,333 (2015)², graduates could earn around $177,000 in the first four years alone, more than seven times the program’s tuition cost. Many students also reduce their out-of-pocket expense through financial aid, employer tuition reimbursement, or public service loan forgiveness, further enhancing the degree’s ROI. The degree isn’t just a credential; it’s a pathway to financial stability and career growth in the education sector.

Illinois Teacher Licensure and Endorsements Through Depaul

Masters degree education Illinois continues to refine its licensure requirements to align with evolving classroom needs, making it essential to choose a program that maps directly to clear professional credentials. DePaul’s M.Ed. specializations are designed to meet Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) guidelines, whether you are seeking an initial teaching license, adding an endorsement, or moving into school leadership.

Initial Licensure for Aspiring Educators

Several DePaul master’s programs lead to the Professional Educator License (PEL) with a content-area endorsement, putting you on a path to your first Illinois classroom:

• Middle Grades Education M.Ed. awards a PEL with Middle Grades Education endorsement for grades 5, 8. Candidates must pass an appropriate content-area test (#201, #204, depending on subject).¹
• Secondary Education MA/M.Ed. provides a PEL with Secondary Education endorsement (grades 5, 12). Options include the TEACH English track, which specifies an endorsement in Middle and Secondary Education English.²
• World Languages Education M.Ed. leads to a PEL with World Language Education endorsement for K, 12 settings.³
• Special Education M.Ed. results in a PEL with Learning Behavior Specialist I (LBS1) endorsement, covering PreK through age 21. Required exam is the LBS1 content test #290.⁴

All initial licensure tracks embed student teaching and require passing the edTPA and relevant content-area tests. Program advisors help you register for and sequence these assessments.

Adding Endorsements and Administrative Certifications

For practicing educators who already hold a valid PEL, DePaul offers advanced credentials:

• Educational Leadership M.Ed. , Principal Concentration leads to the Principal Endorsement on the PEL (P, 12). Applicants need four years of teaching experience, must pass the Illinois TAP (Test of Academic Proficiency) or equivalent basic skills exam, and the Principal content test.⁵
• Educational Leadership M.Ed. , Teacher Leader Concentration adds the Teacher Leader Endorsement on the PEL, requiring two years of experience and passing the TAP plus the Teacher Leader content exam.⁶
• School Counselor Endorsement Program is a post-master’s sequence for those with a counseling-related graduate degree, granting a School Counselor endorsement on the PEL.⁷
• Subsequent Teaching Endorsement Programs allow licensed teachers to add an additional content area (e.g., middle grade science) through six graduate courses without repeating a full degree.⁸

Requirements Beyond the Degree

Endorsement candidates must navigate extra steps. Beyond coursework, all initial licensure programs include field experiences and the edTPA portfolio assessment. Content tests vary by endorsement (consult teacher certification exams), and administrative endorsements require years of teaching service. DePaul’s licensure officer helps verify program completion for ISBE, but the responsibility for registration, test fees, and state application deadlines falls on the candidate.

Reciprocity Across State Lines

DePaul’s CAEP accreditation enhances portability. Many states have established pathways to recognize an Illinois PEL through teacher license reciprocity agreements. If you plan to teach outside Illinois, it’s best to contact the target state’s department of education early, as you may need to complete additional coursework or exams. The university’s licensure team can supply verification documents and guide you through the process.

Salary Insight: A Curriculum Specialist’s Earning Potential

In the Chicago metro area, curriculum specialists earn competitive wages.

Frequently Asked Questions About Depaul’s M.ed. Programs

Find quick answers to the most common questions about DePaul University’s Master’s in Education programs. Below we cover specializations, online options, cost, admission requirements, licensure pathways, and typical program length.

1. What Master’s in Education specializations does DePaul University offer?

   DePaul offers M.Ed. and MA degrees in several areas. Specializations include elementary education, special education, educational leadership, curriculum studies, early childhood education, secondary education (TEACH program), and education, culture and society. Some programs provide both M.Ed. and MA tracks, allowing you to choose a path aligned with your career goals.

2. Is DePaul’s M.Ed. program available online?

   Yes, select programs are offered as online master's in education programs. The Curriculum Studies MA/M.Ed. and Early Childhood Education MA/M.Ed. can be completed entirely online.⁸ Most other M.Ed. programs meet on the Lincoln Park Campus in Chicago, with some offering a mix of in-person and online coursework. Check specific program pages for current delivery formats.

3. How much does a Master’s in Education cost at DePaul?

   Tuition is charged per quarter credit hour, and total cost depends on your program’s required credits, which range from 48 to 72 quarter hours.¹ As of 2026, you can find the current per-credit rate on DePaul’s graduate tuition page. Financial aid, scholarships, and graduate assistantships may help offset expenses.

4. What are the admission requirements for DePaul’s M.Ed. programs?

   Applicants need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA.¹ You must submit official transcripts, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a $25 application fee.² Some programs may require a resume, teaching license, or interview. Deadlines vary, with fall entry commonly due August 15.³

5. Does DePaul’s education program lead to Illinois teaching licensure?

   Yes, several M.Ed. paths embed licensure or endorsements. The Elementary Education M.Ed. leads to a Professional Educator License (PEL) with elementary endorsement.³ The Special Education M.Ed. qualifies you for the LBS1 endorsement.⁴ Educational Leadership M.Ed./MA can lead to principal licensure⁵, and the TEACH program offers secondary licensure for grades 5-12⁶.

6. How long does it take to complete a DePaul M.Ed. program?

   Full-time students typically finish in two to three years.¹ For example, the Elementary Education M.Ed. takes about 24 months³, while Special Education takes about 24 to 36 months⁴, and Educational Leadership typically requires 30 months⁷. Part-time study may extend the timeline, but all requirements must be completed within six years of starting¹.

7. What is the minimum GPA for admission?

   DePaul’s College of Education requires a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.¹ However, applicants with lower GPAs may still be considered if they present strong professional experience, solid test scores, or other compelling evidence of their ability to succeed in graduate-level work.

8. What is the application fee?

   The application fee for DePaul’s graduate education programs is $25.² This nonrefundable fee is submitted with your online application. In some cases, the fee may be waived if you attend a virtual information session, are a current DePaul employee, or meet other institutional eligibility criteria.

9. What is the maximum time allowed to finish the degree?

   You have up to six years from the term of your first enrollment to complete all requirements for a master’s in education at DePaul.¹ This policy accommodates part-time students, but it is wise to plan your course sequencing carefully to ensure timely graduation and avoid losing credits for older coursework.