Advance Your Teaching Career with Endicott College’s Master’s in Education Programs

Teaching experience builds classroom instincts, but salary advancement and licensure renewal in Massachusetts increasingly hinge on graduate credits and advanced degrees. Endicott College’s Van Loan School of Graduate Studies addresses that reality with M.Ed. programs designed for working educators, blending field-based practice with graduate-level theory.

The choice between an online, on-campus, or hybrid format adds another layer: working teachers need schedules that fit, while career-changers may crave in-person mentorship. Endicott offers all three, which means the real decision is often less about access and more about what learning environment accelerates your specific career goals the fastest.

For many educators, the master’s becomes the gateway to specialist roles, higher pay lanes, and leadership positions that a bachelor’s alone cannot unlock.

Endicott College: A Legacy of Educator Preparation

The landscape of educator preparation has shifted decidedly toward models that value real-world immersion over theory alone, and Endicott College in Beverly, Massachusetts, has been a quiet leader in that movement for generations. The institution’s deep roots in teacher training date back to its founding, when a focus on experiential learning set it apart from other New England colleges, including Wheaton College. Today, Endicott continues to prepare educators who enter classrooms with confidence, having spent significant time practicing their craft long before graduation.

The Van Loan School and its Hands-On Philosophy

At the heart of Endicott’s graduate education offerings is the Van Loan School, named after a family whose philanthropic vision reshaped the college. The school’s master’s in education programs are built on a signature belief: that the best teachers are forged through doing, not just reading. Graduate candidates don’t simply study pedagogy in the abstract; they complete internships, clinical placements, and field-based projects that mirror the daily work of licensed educators. This experiential design threads through every specialization, whether a candidate is pursuing elementary education, special education, or reading instruction. The result is a graduate who needs minimal onboarding and can immediately contribute to a school community.

Accreditation, Size, and Individual Support

Endicott’s education programs hold institutional accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education, ensuring quality and recognition for graduates seeking licensure. Yet the college’s real differentiator is its intimate scale. With class sizes deliberately kept small, faculty advisors know candidates by name and can tailor guidance to individual career goals. This personalized attention often extends from the application process through graduation, as professors draw on their own K-12 experience to mentor the next wave of practice-ready teachers. The combination of rigorous academics and close support has built Endicott’s reputation across Massachusetts as a pipeline for educators who don’t just know the theory; they’ve already put it into action.

Program Specializations and Curriculum Focus

Endicott College’s M.Ed. specializations are built around immersive, field-based learning that turns theory into classroom-ready practice from day one. The Van Loan School of Graduate and Professional Studies designs each master’s track to pair rigorous academic study with extensive classroom experience, ensuring graduates emerge not just credentialed but genuinely prepared to lead.

A Practical Foundation

Most programs require 30 to 36 credits, blending core education theory with specialized electives and a culminating capstone or internship. The curriculum is continually updated to reflect current state standards and best practices, with an emphasis on equity, inclusive instruction, and actionable research. Whether you pursue an online, on-campus, or hybrid format, the focus remains on applying what you learn in real classrooms immediately.

Specialization Snapshots

• Curriculum & Instruction: Designed for educators who want to deepen their expertise in designing and evaluating curricula across diverse educational settings. Sample courses cover advanced curriculum design, assessment strategies, differentiated instruction, and technology integration, with opportunities to explore equity-focused leadership.
• Educational & Teacher Leadership: Prepares candidates for roles such as department chair, instructional coach, or teacher mentor. Coursework includes leadership theory, adult learning, school improvement planning, and data-driven decision making. Many assignments are directly tied to the candidate’s current school context.
• Special Education: Focuses on inclusive practices, behavior management, and legal frameworks. Key topics include assessment of students with diverse needs, collaborative consultation, and specialized instructional strategies. Graduates are prepared to advocate for and support learners across disability categories.
• Early Childhood Education: A unique offering includes the Montessori-integrated track (Montessori TIES), which blends Montessori pedagogy with state licensure requirements. This 45-credit program covers child development from birth to age 8, with core courses such as Montessori philosophy, child development, and classroom management. An additional 12 credits are available for those seeking Massachusetts initial licensure. A supervised practicum in a Montessori setting ensures deep practical experience.³
• Elementary Education: Ideal for initial licensure or for enhancing skills in grades 1 to 6. The program covers foundational methods in literacy, mathematics, social studies, and science, with a strong emphasis on culturally responsive teaching and formative assessment.
• Secondary Education: For middle and high school educators, this 36-credit program requires 300 hours of supervised clinical experience plus 100 hours of full-responsibility teaching.² Coursework spans content-area methods, adolescent development, literacy across the curriculum, and electives that allow concentration in a specific discipline. A reflective seminar accompanies the final practicum.
• Reading & Literacy: Prepares reading specialists and literacy coaches to lead school-wide literacy initiatives. Courses address diagnostic assessment, intervention strategies, literacy leadership, and a supervised practicum in a literacy setting. The program aligns with Massachusetts reading specialist licensure standards.

Internships and Capstones

Every specialization embeds a practicum, clinical experience, or capstone project that bridges theory and practice. For example, the Secondary Education program includes a full-semester student teaching placement under the guidance of a mentor teacher and college supervisor. The International M.Ed. track requires a clinical experience, reflective seminar, and research project.¹ In the Montessori Early Childhood program, candidates complete a practicum course that grounds their learning in a Montessori classroom. This hands-on approach is central to Endicott’s philosophy and consistently cited by graduates as the most valuable aspect of their preparation. Detailed course descriptions and enrollment information are available on the individual program pages.

Online, On-Campus, and Hybrid Learning Options

Endicott College delivers its graduate education programs through multiple formats to meet the needs of working teachers and career-changers. Whether you prefer fully online coursework, face-to-face interaction on the Beverly campus, or a blended hybrid model, there is a path that aligns with your schedule and learning style.

Online Programs for Maximum Flexibility

Several M.Ed. specializations are offered entirely online, allowing you to complete coursework from anywhere. The Administrative Leadership, Elementary Education, and Social Emotional Learning M.Ed. programs are all available in a fully online format.¹ The M.Ed. in International Education (Teaching & Learning) can also be completed 100% online, with an asynchronous course design that lets you log in and complete work on your own schedule.² Similarly, the International Education Administration concentration offers a fully online track.² These programs rely on the Canvas learning management system, providing a centralized hub for assignments, discussions, and resources.³

Hybrid and On-Campus Options

Some programs blend online convenience with in-person experiences. The M.Ed. in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis, an example of a diverse learning master's degree, is available as a hybrid, combining online coursework with on-campus sessions. The International Education (Teaching & Learning) program also offers a blended option that includes summer face-to-face courses in Madrid, Spain, an intensive 18-month experience for those who can travel. Licensure-track M.Ed. students can opt into one-week on-campus institutes at the Beverly campus, supplementing their online or hybrid coursework with hands-on learning. The Fifth-Year M.Ed. and Teaching Fellows programs provide a mix of online, on-campus, and hybrid delivery, paired with a year-long school-based residency.

Synchronous and Asynchronous Learning

Most online courses are designed asynchronously, meaning you can watch lectures, participate in discussions, and complete assignments on your own time, ideal for teachers balancing full-time jobs. However, some courses incorporate synchronous elements, such as scheduled virtual class meetings. The Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis program, for example, notes both synchronous and asynchronous components in its online format, giving you a blend of real-time interaction and self-paced study.⁴ Always contact your program advisor to understand the specific rhythm of each course.

Field Placements and Practicum Requirements

If you are pursuing an M.Ed. that leads to licensure, you will complete significant field experience. Endicott requires practicum approval to ensure placements align with your program.⁵ The Secondary Education M.Ed., for instance, demands 300 clinical hours, including at least 100 hours of full-responsibility teaching.⁵ The Teaching Fellows program embeds you in a school for an entire year, giving you an immersive residency.³ Even programs without formal licensure may include capstone projects or applied assignments that connect theory to real classrooms.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid for Graduate Education Students

Endicott College delivers a transparent and competitive tuition structure for graduate education students, making an M.Ed. both accessible and a strong return on investment.

Per-Credit and Total Program Costs

For the 2026-2027 academic year, Endicott College charges $614 per credit for most Master of Education (M.Ed.) programs, including those in early childhood education, elementary education, and special education. A typical 36-credit degree path totals $22,104 in tuition. The M.Ed. in School Counseling/Advising carries a higher per-credit rate of $735, bringing its total tuition to $26,460 for the same credit load. The M.S. in Reading & Literacy aligns with the standard $614 per credit and $22,104 total. These figures cover tuition only and are built around an enrollment pace of 18 credits per academic year, which is the standard for full-time graduate students at Endicott. By spreading the program over two years, students can manage costs while maintaining financial aid eligibility.¹

How Endicott Compares to Massachusetts Averages

Graduate education costs in Massachusetts vary widely, with private institutions often charging upwards of $800 to $1,000 per credit. Endicott's $614 per credit sits at the more affordable end of the private spectrum, and the total program cost of $22,104 frequently falls below the state average for a master's degree in education. This positions Endicott as a competitive option for Massachusetts educators seeking a licensure-aligned M.Ed. without the premium price tag of many Boston-area universities. Even the higher-priced school counseling program remains in line with comparable programs regionally, offering specialized training for a modest increase. For out-of-state students enrolled in online coursework, the same per-credit rate applies, meaning distance learners receive the same value as on-campus peers.

Financial Aid Options

Endicott College participates in federal student aid programs, and graduate students in the M.Ed. program are eligible for Direct Unsubsidized Loans after filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).³ These loans offer fixed interest rates and flexible repayment plans, making them a cornerstone of graduate financing. Beyond federal aid, Endicott encourages students to explore employer tuition reimbursement, many Massachusetts school districts and private schools offer partial or full reimbursement for advanced degrees, especially when the program leads to a required licensure or certification. The college's graduate financial aid office assists students in identifying external scholarships, including those from professional organizations like the Massachusetts Teachers Association or subject-specific foundations. Limited graduate assistantships may also be available, providing a stipend or tuition remission in exchange for part-time work within the School of Education. These opportunities, while competitive, can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Additional Fees to Plan For

Tuition alone does not capture the full cost of attendance. All graduate applicants pay a $50 application fee, and enrolled students should budget for a technology fee, student services fee, and a graduation fee, common line items at most institutions.² Endicott's published fee schedule for 2026-2027 details these charges; they typically amount to a few hundred dollars per semester. Books, materials, and background checks for field placements add another estimated $500 to $1,000 per year. Students completing required practicum hours may also face transportation or licensure testing costs, such as fees for the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL). Despite these extras, Endicott's transparent pricing model helps students plan ahead. Financial aid counseling is available to all admitted students, and many combine federal loans with district-sponsored reimbursement to keep debt manageable. With a median graduate debt of $27,000 reported in federal data for Endicott alumni, the M.Ed. program aligns with responsible borrowing norms for the field.

Admissions: How to Apply to Endicott’s M.ed. Programs

Endicott College uses a straightforward online application for its master’s in education programs. Requirements vary slightly by specialization and track, so review the checklist below.

• Bachelor’s Degree

  You must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• Minimum GPA

  A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is expected.
• Personal Statement

  Submit a 250- to 500-word essay describing your career goals and motivation for pursuing a master’s in education.
• Recommendation Letter

  One professional or academic recommendation is required (except for the Fifth-Year Program, which waives this).
• Transcripts and Résumé

  Provide official transcripts and a current résumé. The Fifth-Year Program waives the transcript requirement.
• Standardized Tests

  No GRE or MAT scores are required. Licensure-only tracks need passing scores on the MTEL Communication & Literacy test.
• Application Fee

  Most applicants pay a $50 fee; it is waived for Endicott alumni and veterans. The Fifth-Year Program has no fee.
• Program-Specific Prerequisites

  Licensure programs require the MTEL; the Educational Leadership track prefers candidates with a teaching license and experience.

Career Outcomes and Salary Potential for Endicott M.ed. Graduates

What can you expect to earn after earning a master’s in education from Endicott College, and which career doors does it open? The answer depends on the specialization you choose, whether you pursue Massachusetts licensure, and how you leverage the degree for advancement.

Licensure and Endorsement Pathways

Many Endicott M.Ed. programs are designed to lead directly to an initial teaching license or an additional endorsement from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Specific pathways include: - Elementary Education: Qualifies you for an initial teaching license in Elementary Education, Grades 1-6. You can also add a moderate disabilities (PreK-8) license by completing additional MTELs and coursework.¹ - Secondary Education: Leads to an initial license in multiple subject areas such as General Science, History, Biology, English, Math, Chemistry, Physics, or Middle School Humanities. The required Communication and Literacy MTEL must be passed.² - Early Childhood Education: An initial licensure pathway for early childhood settings, emphasizing play-based learning and PreK-2 educator preparation. - Reading & Literacy Instruction: Aligns with the reading specialist certification outcome, preparing you to support literacy development across grade levels. - Administrative Leadership: Eligibility for principal or special education administrator licensure, opening doors to school-wide leadership. - Special Education: Multiple special education licensure pathways are available, equipping you to work with students with moderate disabilities and other needs. - Fifth Year M.Ed.: Designed for Endicott undergraduates, this option can lead to professional licensure in moderate disabilities (PreK-8) or reading and literacy (all grades).¹

The M.Ed. in Teaching & Learning: International does not lead to Massachusetts teacher licensure, so it is best suited for educators seeking roles outside the state’s public school system.³ All licensure-track programs require 300 clinical hours, including 100 hours of full-responsibility teaching.² First-time licensure exam pass rates are not publicly reported.

Career Advancement with an M.Ed.

An Endicott M.Ed. prepares you for more than just classroom teaching. Many graduates move into leadership and specialized positions, such as curriculum coordinator, instructional coach, or department chair. These roles often come with higher pay and greater influence over school-wide instructional strategies. For those who complete the Administrative Leadership track, positions like assistant principal or special education team leader become attainable.

Earnings and Salary Data

Specific one-year and two-year earnings for Endicott M.Ed. graduates are not yet available from federal sources. However, broader data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard shows that Endicott College alumni across all programs have median earnings of $58,336 ten years after entering the institution. While this figure is not limited to education graduates, it provides a baseline for the institution’s economic value. For comparison, statewide average salaries for teachers with a master’s degree in Massachusetts are not separately tracked, but the state’s overall average teacher salary exceeds $80,000, reflecting the premium placed on advanced degrees and experienced educators.

The investment in an Endicott M.Ed. can accelerate your movement up the salary schedule in many districts, often through “master’s lanes” that reward graduate credits. Combined with licensure, this degree positions you for long-term career stability and increased earning potential in Massachusetts’ competitive education market.

Graduates of Endicott's M.Ed. program report meaningful salary growth and expanded career opportunities within the first three years after earning their degree.

Endicott College Vs. Other Massachusetts Education Schools

When evaluating master’s in education programs in Massachusetts, three metrics help cut through the noise: net price, graduation rate, and median earnings. Net price shows the real cost after grants and scholarships, graduation rate reflects institutional support, and median earnings a decade later hint at long-term value. Endicott College performs well against the Massachusetts private nonprofit average, with a higher graduation rate and stronger earnings, though its net price sits slightly above the state level. The table uses the most recent federal data. For side-by-side comparisons with specific schools, explore our Massachusetts state page for detailed profiles of dozens of education graduate programs across the commonwealth.

Other Endicott College Schools

1. Arizona
2. Florida
3. Louisiana
4. Maryland
5. Michigan
6. New York
7. Pennsylvania
8. Pennsylvania
9. Texas
10. Washington

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