Advance Your Teaching Career with a Master's from Marian University

Exploring Marian University's Graduate Education Programs in Indianapolis

Indiana's teacher shortages persist while pay scales increasingly reward advanced credentials, a landscape that turns graduate education into a calculated career move rather than a simple credential. Marian University, rooted in Indianapolis's near-west side, addresses this tension through programs like the Master of Arts in Teaching, special education licensure tracks, and a curriculum and instruction concentration.

Graduate candidates enter a market where starting salaries are climbing toward $47,000 statewide, but a master's degree can push experienced educators past $60,000. The return depends on specialization, district, and licensure pathway, realities that make program choice a practical financial decision as much as a professional one.

Marian University's College of Education: A Hub for Aspiring Educators in Indianapolis

As school districts increasingly seek educators equipped to lead through complexity and change, graduate programs are emphasizing practical, community-embedded training. Marian University's College of Education in Indianapolis answers that call by blending rigorous academics with a deep commitment to ethical leadership and local impact.

A Mission Grounded in Service and Ethics

Rooted in Franciscan values, the college prepares educators who view teaching as a vocation of service, a path that resonates with those aspiring to become a catholic school teacher. The curriculum weaves ethical decision-making into every course, encouraging students to consider the broader social implications of their work. This mission takes shape through scholarly learning communities like the Innovation in STEHM Education group led by Catherine Steding, which advances Science, Technology, Engineering, Health, and Mathematics teaching, and the Human Flourishing and Aging and Society communities, each exploring how education intersects with well-being across the lifespan.¹

Partnerships That Strengthen Indianapolis Schools

The college's reach extends far beyond campus. Faculty and students have engaged in lead contamination projects in Indianapolis schools and community gardens, translating research into action that directly benefits children and families.¹ The K-12 Pathways Program, directed by Mariame Sow, builds pipelines into teaching careers by collaborating with local districts to diversify and support the educator workforce.² These partnerships ensure that graduate students learn not in isolation but in conversation with the real challenges schools face.

Faculty with Real-World Expertise

Professors bring deep practitioner experience to the classroom. Jeff Kaufman, director of organizational leadership programming and an associate professor, designs courses in conflict management, adaptive leadership, and program evaluation. His research on team dynamics and negotiations informs a teaching style that encourages students to tackle messy, real-world problems.³ Ixchel Boggess coordinates graduate student support for MAT teacher education, while Michael Slavkin serves as primary contact for counseling programs.⁴ Their collective expertise spans organizational leadership, counseling, and teacher preparation, creating a rich network of mentors for students.

A Personalized Learning Environment

Students consistently note the small class sizes that foster close collaboration and individualized feedback. Advisors and faculty build lasting relationships, helping aspiring educators navigate licensure requirements and career transitions. Whether through one-on-one advising or cohort-based cohorts, the college prioritizes attention that makes professional growth tangible.

Online, On-Campus, and Hybrid Options for Working Professionals

Marian University designs its graduate education programs with working adults in mind, offering a range of delivery formats, including fully online, hybrid, and on-campus, to fit your schedule and learning preferences. Whether you are a full-time teacher, a career changer, or balancing family responsibilities, you can find a path that accommodates your life.

Fully Online Programs Designed for Working Educators

Several Master of Arts in Education (MAE) specializations are available 100% online with asynchronous coursework, allowing you to log in and complete assignments whenever it fits your day. These programs include:

• At Risk and Alternative Education: Fully asynchronous; each course includes embedded practicum projects that you can complete in your own school or community setting.
• Special Education: Asynchronous with 90 hours of required clinical experience plus a full semester of student teaching. Field placements are arranged in a local school near you.
• Teacher Education (initial licensure): Asynchronous coursework paired with extensive field experiences and student teaching. Even though the program is online, you will complete your classroom hours in person at an approved site.
• Reading Science (MS): 100% online and asynchronous. This program focuses on literacy theory and practice, and while it does not specify required field hours in the available information, it offers flexibility for educators already working in schools.¹

With the exception of the hybrid programs noted below, all Marian graduate education courses are delivered asynchronously, meaning no set log-in times, just consistent deadlines to keep you on track.

Hybrid Options That Blend Convenience with In-Person Collaboration

In Indianapolis, several programs use a hybrid model that combines online coursework with periodic on-campus sessions. These formats give you the flexibility of distance learning while also building relationships with peers and faculty face-to-face. Hybrid offerings include:

• Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT): Choose between on-campus or online synchronous sessions. The program also includes school-based field experiences and student teaching, with placements coordinated in local schools.
• Master of Arts in Special Education: A 36-credit, part-time program with synchronous on-campus classes and asynchronous online work. Field experiences and practicums are built into the curriculum.
• Master of Arts in Educational Leadership: A 38-credit, part-time cohort model that blends regular online coursework with seven Saturday sessions held in Indianapolis. Leadership internships provide hands-on administrative experience.

These hybrid programs are structured to maximize your time. Online modules handle theory and reflection, while in-person meetings focus on discussion, collaboration, and skills practice.

Field Experience Requirements and How They Fit Your Schedule

Licensure and advanced practice programs all include some form of field component. For online students, Marian helps you identify placement sites in your own community, so you never need to travel to campus for clinical hours or student teaching. For hybrid students, field work is often integrated into the local school where you may already be employed. The university works closely with school partners to ensure that even full-time working teachers can meet these requirements without career interruption.

What You'll Learn: Curriculum Highlights and Course Examples

Marian University's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) equips aspiring educators with the skills needed for today's diverse classrooms. The 36-credit program is delivered in a hybrid format, combining online coursework with on-campus sessions, and can be completed in six semesters.¹ Upon graduation, candidates earn an Indiana Initial Teaching License, authorizing them to teach in the state's K-12 schools.¹

The curriculum is designed to bridge theory and practice. Core courses cover essential topics such as Second Language Learning, where students examine language acquisition and develop strategies to support English language learners.¹ Through these courses, you'll engage with curriculum and instruction principles, learning to design and implement effective lesson plans that meet diverse student needs. The program's emphasis on practical teaching methods ensures that graduates are ready to lead their own classrooms from day one. A notable concentration within the MAT is English as a Second Language (ESL), which prepares educators to work with English language learners in a variety of settings.¹ Additional coursework, as outlined in the university's academic catalog, may include topics like educational psychology, diverse learners, and literacy development.²

A highlight of the MAT is the full-time teaching internship during the final semester. This practicum places you in a local school, working Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., under the mentorship of an experienced teacher.¹ The structure is rigorous, mirroring the day-to-day responsibilities of a professional educator. For those preparing for this challenge, a student teaching survival guide offers practical tips on managing the demands of student teaching.

Beyond the MAT, Marian University also offers a Master of Special Education (MSE) for teachers seeking advanced skills in special education, as well as a Licensure-Only option for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree and want to add a teaching endorsement.² These pathways provide flexibility for working professionals looking to advance their careers.

Program Structure at a Glance: Credits, Duration, and Pacing

Marian University designs its graduate education programs to accommodate both career changers who need intensive training and working teachers who require maximum flexibility. Two core master's pathways, the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) and the Master of Arts in Special Education (MAE), share the same total credit count but differ markedly in delivery format and ideal pacing.

Credit and Duration at a Glance

• MAT: 36 credits, full-time completion in 18 months, part-time window of up to 7 years, fully online delivery.²
• MAE: 36 credits, full-time completion in 12 months, part-time window of up to 7 years, hybrid delivery (online and on-campus components).³

The 36-credit structure keeps both programs streamlined while allowing for in-depth clinical practice and licensure preparation.¹ The part-time maximum of seven years reflects an unusually generous completion window, enabling students to balance teaching and a master's degree.¹

Pacing Options for Diverse Schedules

Full-time students in the MAT program typically finish within a year and a half⁴, a timeline that includes supervised field experiences and student teaching. The MAE's full-time track is an accelerated master's in education that can be completed in just 12 months⁴, making it an attractive option for those seeking a quick entry into Indiana's high-demand special education classrooms. Both programs also welcome part-time learners, who may spread their studies over multiple years without penalty. The long part-time cap does not dictate a required pace; instead, it offers a safety net for students who need to pause and resume their education without losing credit.

Online and Hybrid Flexibility

The MAT is delivered entirely online, suiting educators anywhere in the state who prefer asynchronous learning or cannot commute to the Indianapolis campus. The MAE's hybrid format combines online coursework with periodic on-campus sessions, likely for hands-on training in assessment, behavior intervention, and collaboration. This blend ensures that special education candidates develop practical skills in a face-to-face environment while still benefiting from the convenience of remote learning. Although the availability of summer-intensive tracks is not specified in the current catalog, the compressed 12-month MAE timeline suggests a possible year-round schedule that may include summer coursework. Prospective students should confirm seasonal pacing details with an admission advisor.

Admissions Requirements for Graduate Education Programs

Graduate education admissions are increasingly moving away from standardized testing, and Marian University reflects this trend through its no-GRE master's in education programs. The application process is streamlined yet thorough, designed to identify candidates who are ready for rigorous graduate study and committed to the teaching profession.

Application Deadlines

Marian University operates on a rolling admissions basis for most graduate education programs, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. For master's-level programs like the Master of Arts in Teaching⁴ and Master of Arts in Special Education⁵, the final deadline is two weeks before the start of each semester. This gives working professionals flexibility, but early application is encouraged to secure a spot and allow time for financial aid processing. The Doctor of Organizational Leadership (Ed.D.)⁶ has a firm deadline of April 15 for summer cohort entry.

Required Materials

Applicants need to submit the following:

• Online application: The form is completed through the Marian University graduate admissions portal¹, with a nonrefundable $55 application fee².
• Official transcripts: Unofficial transcripts can be used for initial review, but official sealed transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended are required before enrollment. A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is the baseline prerequisite.
• Statement of purpose: A written essay detailing your professional goals, reasons for pursuing a graduate education degree, and how the program aligns with your career aspirations.
• Letters of recommendation: Typically two to three letters from academic or professional references who can speak to your ability to succeed in graduate-level work.
• Resume or curriculum vitae: A current summary of your educational and professional experience.
• Interview: Some programs, including the MAT⁴ and Special Education master's⁵, require an interview with faculty. This may be conducted in person or virtually.
• Background check: For programs that lead to licensure, a criminal background check is mandatory before beginning clinical field experiences.⁴

GPA and Test Score Policy

The minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA for admission is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.³ Applicants with a lower GPA may be considered on a provisional basis if they demonstrate strong professional experience or other compensating factors. Marian University does not require GRE or MAT scores for any education graduate program, aligning with the broader industry shift toward holistic review.³

Special Notes for Specific Programs

• Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT): No prior teaching experience is required, making it accessible to career changers. The program includes built-in licensure preparation, so candidates must meet state-mandated background check requirements.⁴
• Master of Arts in Special Education: Similar to the MAT, there is no teaching experience prerequisite, but the interview and background check are required.⁵
• Doctor of Organizational Leadership (Ed.D.): Applicants must hold a master's degree from an accredited institution. The interview is an essential component of the selection process.⁶

International Applicants

International candidates must provide proof of English proficiency. For most graduate programs, a minimum TOEFL score of 80 or IELTS score of 6.5 is required.³ Some programs, such as the Master of Arts in Special Education, accept a TOEFL score of 69 or IELTS 6.0.⁵ Additionally, international transcripts must be evaluated by a NACES-approved credential evaluation service to determine U.S. equivalency. Prospective students should also review visa and financial documentation requirements with the Office of International Admissions well before the application deadline.

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid Options

The landscape of graduate education financing continues to evolve, with new scholarship opportunities and loan forgiveness programs emerging to support teachers. Funding a master's degree from Marian University requires a clear understanding of costs and a proactive approach to uncovering aid.

Understanding Tuition and Fees

Graduate tuition at Marian University depends on the specific master's program, delivery mode (online, on-campus, or hybrid), and the number of credit hours required. Because education programs often fall under different colleges or departments, it is essential to verify costs directly. Prospective students should visit Marian University's official website to review the most up-to-date graduate tuition and fee schedules. Typically, costs include per-credit-hour tuition, technology or activity fees, and sometimes course-specific materials. Many universities charge a flat per-credit rate for graduate education courses, but rates can shift between academic years. Checking the current bulletin ensures you budget accurately.

• Cost transparency: The university's bursar or student financial services office posts detailed fee breakdowns each term.
• Additional expenses: Remember to plan for books, software, and possible campus parking or online platform fees.

Financial Aid Options for Graduate Students

Financing a master's degree often blends several aid sources. Graduate students may qualify for federal unsubsidized loans by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Unlike undergraduate programs, grants based solely on financial need are less common at the graduate level, but income-driven repayment plans and Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) remain valuable for educators. Marian's financial aid office can clarify eligibility and guide you through the process.

• Federal programs: TEACH Grants, though competitive, may be available for students preparing for high-need teaching fields, often requiring a service commitment.
• State-specific aid: Indiana residents should investigate state education grants administered through the Indiana Commission for Higher Education.

Scholarships and Grants for Educators

Many professional associations and nonprofits offer M.Ed. scholarships for graduate students. The American Federation of Teachers, the National Education Association, and state-level teacher unions frequently list opportunities on their websites. Additionally, some Marian University departments may have endowed scholarships funded by alumni or community partners. These awards can be based on merit, financial need, or a combination.

• Institutional aid: Check the graduate education program's webpage for departmental scholarships or tuition discounts. Some programs offer reduced rates for in-state educators or employees of partner school districts.
• Assistantships: On-campus assistantships may provide tuition remission and a stipend in exchange for research or administrative work. Inquire with the graduate coordinator about availability.

How to Navigate the Financial Aid Process

Start early by contacting Marian's financial aid office to schedule an appointment with a graduate counselor. They can illuminate less-publicized funding streams, such as tuition discount programs for teachers, payment plans, and employer reimbursement options. Many districts offer tuition assistance as a retention incentive, so speaking with your human resources department is also wise. Professional associations like the National Association of Special Education Teachers occasionally sponsor grants for specialized study, aligning with particular career goals like special education endorsements.

• Direct outreach: The financial aid office can provide the most personalized picture of costs after factoring in potential aid.
• External databases: Use reputable search tools like the U.S. Department of Labor's Scholarship Finder or the College Board's scholarship search to supplement your research.

By methodically exploring institutional, federal, state, and private aid sources, you can craft a funding strategy that makes a master's degree in education from Marian University a feasible investment.

Career Outcomes and Salary Expectations for Marian M.ed. Graduates

Educational administrator roles, which often require a master's degree, are projected to grow 8% nationally through 2032, according to federal labor data.¹ Marian University's Master of Arts in Teaching program opens doors to these and other careers for master's in education, though program-specific median earnings data is not yet publicly available.

Typical Career Paths for M.Ed. Graduates

Graduates of Marian's education master's programs commonly step into roles such as classroom teacher, special education coordinator, curriculum specialist, instructional designer, and educational administrator. The program's hybrid format and licensure preparation directly support careers in K-12 public and private schools. Nationally, 37% of educational administrators hold a master's degree and 44% have a post-master's certificate², underscoring the value of advanced study for career mobility.

Salary Growth and Advancement

While specific median earnings one and five years after graduation are not reported for Marian's M.Ed. completers, a master's degree typically unlocks salary lane increases in school districts. With experience and additional credentials, professionals can move into higher-paying leadership positions. The overall median earnings of Marian University alumni 10 years after entry is $58,759, though that figure spans all fields and is not limited to education graduates.

• Classroom teachers often see step increases on district salary scales for each year of service and for earning a master's degree.
• Instructional coordinators earn a national median salary of $66,490, with growth driven by curriculum development needs.
• School principals and administrators command higher wages, influenced by district size and budget.

Demand for Educators in Indianapolis and Indiana

Indianapolis and the broader Indiana education market continue to seek qualified teachers and school leaders. District hiring trends indicate persistent shortages in special education, STEM fields, and bilingual education. Marian's strong ties with local school districts, including a partnership with Indianapolis Teaching Fellows, enhance job placement prospects. The university's emphasis on practical classroom experience helps graduates stand out in competitive hiring cycles, particularly in urban and high-need schools, making Marian a strong choice among M.Ed. programs in Indiana.

Accreditation and Licensure: Pathways to Indiana Teaching Credentials

How do Marian University's master's in education programs align with Indiana's teacher licensure requirements? Accreditation and state approval are the backbone of that alignment. When you enroll in a graduate education program, you want to know that the degree you earn will be recognized by employers and meet the criteria for a teaching credential. For education programs, a widely respected seal of quality comes from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Many schools of education, including Marian University’s, typically seek national accreditation to demonstrate that their programs meet high standards. However, accreditation statuses can change, so the most reliable way to confirm is to check directly with the accreditor and the university.

Understanding Accreditation and Its Role in Licensure

CAEP accreditation signals that an education program has undergone rigorous external review and prepares effective educators. For Indiana educators, state teaching licensure is managed by the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE), which approves programs that lead to licensure. Generally, a CAEP-accredited program that is also approved by IDOE provides a clear pipeline to initial or advanced teaching licenses. Marian University’s School of Education website, at marian.edu/academics/school-of-education, offers detailed program descriptions and is the best starting point for understanding which graduate programs are designed to lead to licensure. You may find information about specific licensure options such as initial licensure for new teachers, add-on endorsements in areas like special education or curriculum and instruction, and advanced licensure for experienced educators seeking career growth.

Pathways to an Indiana Teaching License

In addition to completing a state-approved educator preparation program, Indiana requires candidates to pass certain examinations, typically the Praxis series of tests depending on the content area and grade level. Background checks and clearances are also standard. Marian University’s graduate education programs are structured to guide candidates through these steps, but exact requirements, such as which Praxis exams you need to take, vary by program concentration. For instance, a master’s in special education may have different testing requirements than a master’s in curriculum and instruction. Therefore, contacting the admissions or education department directly is essential to obtain the most current list of required exams and background check procedures.

How to Confirm a Program's Current Status

To verify accreditation or a program’s approval for licensure, start with the official CAEP directory at caep.org, where you can search for Marian University and view its current accreditation standing. Then, cross-reference with the IDOE’s list of approved educator preparation programs on doe.in.gov/licensing. The IDOE site also outlines the licensure application process, renewal cycles, and any recent changes to licensure laws. Because state regulations evolve, it is important to check these sources regularly, especially if you are in the middle of your program. Marian University advisors can also provide updated information about how their degree sequences align with Indiana’s licensure pathways, including any alternative routes for career changers who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Frequently Asked Questions About Marian University's Education Programs

Get quick answers to frequently asked questions about Marian University’s graduate education programs. Keep in mind that program details, costs, and career outcomes can change, so the best sources are always the university’s official website and authoritative data from government and professional bodies.

Other Marian University Schools

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3. Connecticut
4. Illinois
5. Iowa
6. Kentucky
7. Oregon

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