Master's in Education at Lewis University: Your Guide to Programs, Costs, and Careers

Illinois school districts hired over 1,000 new teachers in 2025-26, intensifying the push for advanced credentials among career educators. Lewis University, a Catholic institution in Romeoville, delivers a Master of Education built for working professionals, with specializations in Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, and Reading and Literacy.

Courses are available online, on campus, or in hybrid formats to accommodate full-time teaching schedules. CAEP accreditation and a per-credit tuition of $820 make the program a practical choice for Illinois educators seeking salary advancement and leadership roles.

Lewis University M.ed. Specializations and Key Details

Lewis University offers a range of Master of Education specializations within Curriculum and Instruction and Educational Leadership. Each track is designed to align with Illinois endorsement requirements and can be completed through flexible delivery formats. The following table summarizes the key details for each currently available specialization.

Curriculum and Course Sequences for Each Specialization

Lewis University’s M.Ed. specializations range from 30 to 33 credits³, each with distinct fieldwork or capstone requirements. While every program builds from a core of graduate-level education courses, the specialization sequences and culminating experiences vary significantly, allowing you to align your studies directly with your career goals.

Curriculum & Instruction

The curriculum and instruction degree offers a broad foundation in curriculum design, assessment, and instructional strategies. It is designed for educators who want to refine their teaching practice without focusing on a single subject area. Elective options let you customize the degree around areas like technology integration, literacy, or leadership, though specific elective titles vary by term. Unlike some other tracks, this specialization does not mandate clinical hours or a comprehensive exam; instead, it emphasizes portfolio-based capstone projects that showcase applied learning.

Educational & Teacher Leadership

The master's in teacher leadership program is 30 credits and prepares you for roles such as department chair or instructional coach. Core coursework examines teacher leadership theories, data-driven decision-making, and professional development facilitation. A distinctive feature is the 1-credit EDLD 50800 Teacher Leader Seminar³, which threads throughout the program and provides ongoing coaching as you build a leadership portfolio. No separate clinical hours are required beyond embedded assignments, but you should expect to apply concepts in your own classroom or school setting.

Instructional Design & Educational Technology

For educators interested in digital learning design, the educational technology degree, requiring 30 credits¹, covers multimedia development, online pedagogy, and technology evaluation. The capstone experience is a comprehensive exam that tests your ability to synthesize theory and practice.¹ Course sequences emphasize project-based learning, often resulting in a professional design portfolio you can present to employers. Elective choices allow you to deepen skills in areas like learning management systems or accessible design.

Reading & Literacy

The reading and literacy degree, totalling 33 credits², integrates clinical experiences directly into coursework. You will complete embedded clinical hours as part of reading assessment and intervention courses, meeting standards set by the International Literacy Association.² The program qualifies you for the Reading Teacher endorsement in Illinois, provided you also satisfy state testing requirements. Additional elective credits can be used to pursue the ESL endorsement, which requires a separate 100-hour clinical practicum focused on English language learners.²

Across all specializations, elective options and endorsement pathways give you the flexibility to tailor the degree to your district’s needs or your own professional interests. Whether through a capstone, comprehensive exam, or clinical hours, each program includes a culminating experience that demonstrates mastery of the specialization’s competencies.

Online, On-Campus, and Hybrid Learning Flexibility

Lewis University designs its Master's in Education programs to fit the demanding schedules of working teachers. Whether you prefer face-to-face interaction, the convenience of online learning, or a blend of both, the College of Education offers formats that let you advance your career without putting your classroom responsibilities on hold.

Hybrid Learning: The Best of Both Worlds

The Curriculum and Instruction: Technology, Learning, and Design concentration employs a hybrid model. Core coursework is delivered through a mix of on-campus sessions and online modules. The online component typically uses an intuitive learning management system where you access readings, discussion boards, and assignments asynchronously, meaning you can log in and complete work at times that suit your schedule. Periodic on-campus meetings provide hands-on collaboration with faculty and peers, often held in the evenings to accommodate working professionals. This structure allows you to maintain momentum in your studies while continuing to teach full-time.

Traditional In-Person Classes with Evening Options

Many graduate education courses at Lewis University are offered in a traditional, face-to-face format on the Romeoville campus. These classes are intentionally scheduled during evening hours or on weekends to minimize conflict with school-day commitments. The in-person setting fosters immediate conversation and networking that can be especially valuable for educators looking to build local professional connections.

Flexible Scheduling Across All Formats

• Accelerated terms: Most M.Ed. courses run in 8-week sessions, allowing you to focus on one or two classes at a time and still complete your degree efficiently. ¹
• Year-round enrollment: The university advertises entry points for Fall 2026, and courses are available in fall, spring, and summer terms so you can begin when it fits your calendar. ²
• Summer intensives: For those who want to make faster progress, condensed summer courses offer the same rigorous curriculum in a shorter timeframe.

Whether you choose hybrid or in-person evening classes, Lewis University keeps the working educator at the center of its delivery model. The structure is built to let you apply what you learn in your own classroom the very next day, making the most of your time and investment.

Admissions Requirements for Graduate Education Programs

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution

  Official transcripts are required, showing completion of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university.
• Minimum undergraduate GPA

  A cumulative GPA of 2.75 is typically required, including a 2.75 GPA in the last 60 credits. Applicants who fall below this threshold may be considered for provisional admission, requiring a 3.0 GPA in the first three graduate courses to continue.
• Standardized test scores

  Lewis University maintains a test-optional policy for M.Ed. programs; GRE or MAT scores are not required for admission.
• Letters of recommendation

  Two professional or academic references are required, attesting to the applicant’s readiness for graduate study.
• Statement of purpose

  A written essay is required, describing your career goals and reasons for pursuing a master’s in education at Lewis.
• Resume or curriculum vitae

  A current professional resume or CV must be submitted with the application.
• Teaching license or professional experience

  Some specializations, such as Literacy and English Language Learning, require a valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with a teaching endorsement. The Educational Leadership program requires at least three years of teaching experience and may request an interview and portfolio.
• Application deadlines

  Admissions operate on a rolling basis, but priority deadlines apply for financial aid consideration. International students must apply by June 1 for fall entry and November 1 for spring. Domestic students are encouraged to apply early to secure their spot.
• English language proficiency

  Applicants whose native language is not English must submit TOEFL iBT (minimum 79), IELTS (6.0), PTE-A (52), or Duolingo (105) scores.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid for Educators

Understanding the cost of your degree is a critical step in planning your education journey. At Lewis University, M.Ed. tuition is charged per credit hour, with rates varying by specialization. For the 2026 academic year, per-credit costs range from $820 to $1,088, depending on the program. Many master’s tracks require 30 to 36 credits, so total tuition typically falls between $24,600 and $39,000. Some specializations, like the M.Ed. in English as a Second Language, have a lower total tuition of around $10,800 per year for full-time study, while postgraduate programs can reach up to $33,005 annually.

Tuition Costs for M.Ed. Programs

• Per-credit rate: $820 to $1,088 (2026), with an example rate of $833 for certain graduate offerings.
• Typical program length: 30 to 36 credits, bringing total tuition to approximately $24,600 to $39,000 for the entire degree.
• Additional fees: Students also pay a $500 fee each semester, and health insurance costs about $1,000 per year.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

More than 91% of Lewis graduate students receive some form of M.Ed. scholarships or grant aid. The average grant award is $17,138, and total aid packages average $28,717, including loans. Federal loan programs are available, with graduate students borrowing an average of $4,357. Lewis University offers its own Graduate Tuition Scholarship, which covers 20% of tuition, up to $3,900, for eligible students. This scholarship is automatically considered based on your application, lowering the net cost significantly. Graduate assistantships, which provide a stipend and tuition remission, are also available on a competitive basis.

Employer Tuition Reimbursement and Payment Plans

Many school districts and educational organizations offer tuition reimbursement benefits for teachers pursuing advanced degrees. Check with your employer to see if you can apply for reimbursement, which often covers a substantial portion of tuition. Additionally, Lewis University provides flexible payment plans, allowing you to spread tuition payments over the semester rather than paying a lump sum upfront. These plans can make budgeting more manageable while you work full-time in education.

Remember that total cost also includes books, supplies, and living expenses, but financial aid can cover these as well. For a personalized estimate, use the net price calculator on the Lewis University website or speak with a financial aid advisor. By combining these resources, many educators complete their M.Ed. with minimal out-of-pocket expense.

Breaking Down the Cost of Your M.ed.

Understanding the full investment required for a master's degree helps you plan ahead. Here's a look at the estimated annual costs for a Lewis University M.Ed. student in 2026.

Accreditation and Illinois Licensure Alignment

What qualifications do Lewis University's education programs hold, and do they meet Illinois licensure standards?

Institutional Accreditation

Lewis University holds institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a regional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. HLC accreditation confirms that the university meets comprehensive standards for academic quality, governance, and financial stability. For graduate education students, this designation is critical: it ensures that credits are transferable, programs are eligible for federal financial aid, and the degree carries broad acceptance among employers and other academic institutions.

Programmatic Accreditation for Education Programs

Beyond institutional accreditation, Lewis University's College of Education and Social Sciences has earned programmatic accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), which advances the legacy of NCATE.¹ CAEP accreditation signals that the university's teacher preparation and advanced educator programs comply with rigorous, nationally recognized standards. This specialized approval applies to both initial licensure and advanced-level programs, including the Master's in Education, and underscores a commitment to preparing effective, professionally ready educators.

Alignment with Illinois State Board of Education Endorsements

Lewis University's M.Ed. programs are fully approved by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) for entitlement, meaning graduates who complete a state-approved program track are eligible to apply for Illinois educator licensure and specific endorsements.² The alignment between program design and state requirements is deliberate:

• Reading Specialist: The M.Ed. in Reading and Literacy is structured to meet the competencies for the Reading Specialist endorsement in Illinois. Candidates engage in coursework on literacy assessment, intervention, and coaching.
• Principal Preparation: The M.Ed. in Educational Leadership with a principal endorsement track prepares candidates for the Principal endorsement. It includes required internship experiences and leadership courses that correspond to ISBE standards.
• Curriculum and Instruction: The M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction often leads to advanced credentials such as a Teacher Leader endorsement, though exact outcomes depend on the concentration chosen. Graduates gain expertise in curriculum design and instructional improvement.

It is important to note that licensure eligibility is not automatic; students must be admitted to the correct ISBE-approved program track and complete all required assessments and clinical experiences. Advisors help ensure each candidate is on the right path for their intended endorsement.²

Licensure Portability for Out-of-State Educators

For educators planning to teach outside Illinois, teacher license reciprocity is not guaranteed. Licensure requirements are established by individual states, and while some states have agreements that streamline the process, others may require additional exams, coursework, or documentation. Lewis University recommends that any student seeking out-of-state licensure contact the state's licensing board before enrolling to clarify exact steps.² The program's foundation aligns with national standards, but state-specific statutes or district policies can add further conditions. Proactive planning helps avoid surprises after graduation.

Career Paths and Salary Outcomes for M.ed. Graduates

Understanding the career trajectories and earning potential tied to a Lewis University Master’s in Education helps you measure the investment against long-term professional rewards. While specific salary figures vary by district, role, and years of experience, several authoritative sources provide the localized data needed to make informed decisions about masters in education salary.

Researching Education Salaries in Illinois

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook offers detailed job descriptions and national salary percentiles for positions such as instructional coordinators, special education teachers, and school administrators. To refine these figures for Illinois, consult the Illinois Teacher Salary Study, a state-published resource that compiles average compensation across school districts. Additionally, reviewing current job postings on district websites gives real-time insight into starting salaries and benefits. Lewis University’s career services office and alumni outcomes page may provide program-specific placement data, offering a window into where recent graduates are employed and their initial earning ranges.

Endorsements and Licensure Impact on Earnings

Many Lewis M.Ed. specializations lead to endorsements on an Illinois Professional Educator License, such as Reading Teacher, English as a Second Language, or Principal. Each endorsement typically moves you into a different lane on a district’s salary schedule, often with a permanent increase in base pay. The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) outlines exact endorsement requirements, but local HR offices determine how those credentials translate into salary. Contacting a district directly before choosing a specialization can clarify the financial return. For example, a reading specialist endorsement may command a stipend beyond a standard master’s-level raise in some districts.

Professional Networks and Career Growth

Professional associations like the Illinois Reading Council and the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) offer career centers, salary surveys, and networking events that connect you with hiring trends across the state. Membership can also surface leadership pathways, such as curriculum director or professional development coordinator, that are often tied to an M.Ed. and advanced endorsements. These organizations help you benchmark your earning potential and stay aware of emerging careers for masters in education.

Salary Snapshot

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How to Apply to Lewis University’s M.ed. Programs

Follow these steps to submit a complete application for a Master of Education at Lewis University. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree, a minimum 2.75 GPA, and supporting materials.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lewis University Education Programs

Find answers to common questions about Lewis University's graduate education programs, including admissions, accreditation, online options, and career outcomes.

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