Master's in Education at Morgan State: A Complete Program Guide

Why Choose Morgan State University for Your Master’s in Education?

Does Morgan State University offer a master's in education that fits working professionals? Yes, and it does so with a deliberate focus on urban school improvement. As Maryland's largest HBCU, Morgan State supplies many of Baltimore's educators, blending research with community engagement.

Its master's in education specializations span curriculum and instruction, educational administration, and community college leadership, and are delivered online, on campus, or hybrid to accommodate full-time work. All paths align with Maryland certification standards.

With over 880 unfilled teaching positions reported for 2025-2026, advanced preparation from a respected local institution directly boosts your salary trajectory and leadership eligibility in high-need districts.

Master’s in Education Programs at Morgan State

Morgan State University’s School of Education offers graduate programs designed to prepare educators for leadership roles in a variety of settings. The school is organized into departments that support both initial and advanced preparation, with an emphasis on urban education, equity, and culturally responsive practice.

Programmatic Structure

Graduate degrees at the master’s level include the Master of Education (M.Ed.) and the Master of Science (MS). Each program aligns with state and national standards and is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

Available Master’s Degrees

• Community College Administration and Instruction (M.Ed.): Delivered fully online, this program prepares professionals to lead and teach in two-year college environments. It covers curriculum design, instructional strategies, and administrative practices specific to community colleges.
• Educational Administration and Supervision (MS): An on-campus degree focused on school leadership, policy, and supervision. It meets Maryland’s certification requirements for principals and administrators.
• Science Education (MS): Also offered on campus, this program deepens both science content knowledge and pedagogical skills. It serves current science educators and those seeking curriculum specialist roles.

As of the 2025-2026 academic year, Morgan State does not list a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program.¹ Individuals pursuing initial teacher certification at the master’s level should explore alternative pathways within the university or through other Maryland institutions.

Unique Focus on Community College Leadership

The M.Ed. in Community College Administration and Instruction is a distinctive offering. Few graduate programs in the region specialize in community college leadership, making it a strategic choice for those targeting career advancement within Maryland’s community colleges. The fully online format supports working professionals, consistent with Morgan State’s mission of expanding access.

Responding to Statewide Needs

Maryland continues to face teacher shortages, especially in STEM and high-need schools. The MS in Science Education directly addresses this gap by equipping teachers with advanced expertise. Graduates of the educational administration track also contribute to school stability and teacher retention. Many programs employ a cohort model to build professional networks, though specific formats vary by department. Faculty combine research backgrounds with extensive K-12 and higher education experience, ensuring coursework is both rigorous and immediately applicable. Prospective students should consult the Morgan State University Graduate Catalog for detailed credit hour requirements, course sequencing, and any special tracks. Program coordinators are also available to discuss how a degree aligns with individual career goals.

Online and On-Campus Learning Options

Morgan State University designs its graduate education programs around the realities of full-time professionals, offering a deliberate mix of online, low-residency, and on-campus formats that let you advance your career without putting it on hold. Every delivery mode is structured to provide the same rigorous curriculum, but the path you choose determines how you balance work, life, and study.¹

Fully Online Programs for Maximum Flexibility

For educators who need a completely portable degree, several programs are available through Morgan State online graduate programs. The M.Ed. in Community College Administration and Instruction and the Ed.D. in Community College Leadership are both delivered in a fully online format, eliminating the need to travel to campus. These programs use synchronous, cohort-based class sessions, meaning you log in at scheduled times for live discussions rather than working through material entirely on your own schedule. While this approach builds a strong professional network, it does require blocking off specific evening hours each week.

• M.Ed. in Community College Administration and Instruction: Fully online, synchronous sessions, no on-campus requirements.
• Ed.D. in Community College Leadership: Fully online, synchronous sessions, no on-campus requirements.

Low-Residency: The Hybrid Blend

Several advanced programs adopt a low-residency model that pairs remote coursework with brief, intensive on-campus experiences. This format is common in the School of Education’s doctoral tracks, including the Ph.D. in Education (Community College Leadership, Comparative and International Education, and Higher Education concentrations) and the Ed.D. in Urban Educational Leadership. Low-residency students attend one required weekend residency (Friday through Sunday) each semester in Baltimore, while the rest of the coursework happens via synchronous Zoom sessions. The residencies foster face-to-face mentorship, cohort bonding, and access to campus resources, all while preserving the geographic flexibility working professionals need.¹

• Ph.D. in Education , Community College Leadership: Low-residency option available.
• Ph.D. in Education , Comparative and International Education: Low-residency and high-residency options.
• Ph.D. in Education , Higher Education: Low-residency and high-residency options.
• Ed.D. in Urban Educational Leadership: Low-residency and high-residency options.

On-Campus Options for Intensive Engagement

For those who learn best in a traditional classroom setting, several programs maintain a high-residency structure with courses held in person, typically on weekday evenings to accommodate work schedules. Master’s-level programs like the M.S. in Math Education and M.S. in Science Education are offered exclusively on campus, as is the M.A. in Higher Education and Student Affairs. The Ph.D. in Education , Assessment, Evaluation, and Research also follows this format. These programs suit educators who live within commuting distance of Baltimore and want daily interaction with faculty and peers.¹

• M.S. in Math Education: High-residency, on-campus weekday evenings.
• M.S. in Science Education: High-residency, on-campus weekday evenings.
• M.A. in Higher Education and Student Affairs: High-residency, on-campus weekday evenings.
• Ph.D. in Education , Assessment, Evaluation, and Research: High-residency.

What You Won’t Find: Fully Asynchronous Tracks

It is important to note that none of Morgan State’s graduate education programs operate on a fully asynchronous, self-paced model.¹ Even the “online” tracks use live, scheduled sessions to maintain the collaborative dynamic that is central to preparing reflective practitioners. The university also reserves the right to adjust delivery methods, for instance, moving a face-to-face course online in response to public health or operational needs, as stated in the Morgan State University Graduate Catalog.

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Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid

Understanding the cost of your graduate education is a critical step in planning your future. Morgan State University structures its tuition based on residency status and program delivery. Below, you will find the most recent per-credit rates and estimated total costs for the 2025-2026 academic year, along with the financial aid resources available to help you manage this investment.

Graduate Tuition Rates

Morgan State’s graduate programs, including the Master’s in Education, follow a per-credit-hour pricing model. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the per-credit rate is $566.50 for Maryland residents and $1,031.50 for out-of-state students, according to the Morgan State graduate tuition and fees schedule. Some education programs offered through the College of Interdisciplinary and Continuing Studies (CICS) have a separate CICS graduate tuition rate of $485 per credit. A typical M.Ed. requires between 30 and 36 credits, so you can expect total tuition to fall in the range of $16,995 to $20,394 for in-state students and $30,945 to $37,134 for out-of-state students, assuming standard graduate pricing. If your program is CICS-based, costs may be lower. Always confirm with your specific program office, as rates can vary by specialization.

Additional Expenses

Tuition covers only part of the total cost of attendance. You should also budget for mandatory university fees, textbooks, supplies, and living expenses. While graduate fees are not itemized like undergraduate fees, expect several hundred dollars per semester in institutional fees. The Office of Financial Aid publishes annual cost of attendance estimates covering room and board, transportation, and personal expenses. For graduate students, these figures often parallel the undergraduate estimates, which for 2025-2026 were approximately $32,001 in-state and $43,111 out-of-state. Books and materials typically add $1,200 to $2,000 annually, depending on your course load. Contact the bursar’s office for the most current fee schedule.

Financial Aid Opportunities

Morgan State encourages all graduate students to explore financial aid early. Several options can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs:

• Scholarships: The university awards merit- and need-based scholarships to graduate students. Your department may have endowed funds for education majors, so check with the School of Education and Urban Studies for availability.
• Graduate Assistantships: Full-time students can apply for assistantships that offer a stipend and tuition remission in exchange for research or teaching support. These competitive positions also provide valuable professional experience.
• TEACH Grant: If you plan to teach in a high-need field in a low-income school, you may qualify for a TEACH Grant of up to $4,000 per year. Morgan State participates in this federal program, but you must meet service requirements to avoid grant conversion to a loan.
• Federal Loans and Work-Study: As a graduate student, you are eligible for federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans and, in some cases, Federal Work-Study. File the FAFSA using Morgan’s school code (002083) to begin the process.

Compared to other public universities in Maryland, Morgan’s in-state graduate tuition is competitive, often falling near the median for comprehensive institutions. Out-of-state rates are higher, but the university’s urban location and strong regional network add considerable value. Contact the financial aid office to create a personalized aid package that supports your career goals.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Admissions Requirements and Deadlines

What do I need to apply to Morgan State University’s master’s in education programs? The application process is straightforward, but requirements vary slightly depending on the specific program. All graduate applicants must meet university-wide standards and submit a core set of materials. Below is a breakdown of what to expect for education master’s degrees, using the popular Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) as a representative example.

General Graduate School Requirements

To be considered for any graduate program at Morgan State, you must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. The university expects a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.¹ Applicants who fall below this threshold but have a GPA between 2.5 and 2.99 may be considered for conditional admission.¹ Standardized tests like the GRE or MAT are not required for most education master’s programs, though individual departments may have additional criteria, so always check your program’s specific page.

Program-Specific Requirements: Master of Arts in Teaching

The MAT program at Morgan State prepares candidates for teaching licensure and has distinct prerequisites. You must have a bachelor’s degree in a content area aligned with the teaching subject you intend to pursue. Acceptable majors include Art, Biology, Chemistry, English, History, Mathematics, Music, Physical Education, or Physics. If your degree is in a different field, you can still qualify by completing at least 24 credit hours in the intended teaching subject. No specific prior coursework outside the content area is mandated, but a strong foundation in your discipline is essential.

Application Materials

All applicants to education master’s programs submit their materials through the Morgan State Graduate School portal.¹ A complete application typically includes:

• Application form: Fill out the graduate admission application online and pay the nonrefundable fee.
• Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts from every post-secondary institution attended. Official copies are required upon enrollment.
• Letters of recommendation: Three recommendations from academic or professional references who can speak to your ability to succeed in graduate studies.
• Personal statement: A written statement of at least 350 words explaining your career goals, why you chose Morgan State, and how the program fits your aspirations.
• Resume or CV: A current document detailing your educational background, work experience, and any relevant certifications or volunteer activities.

Some programs may require an interview or a writing sample, so review your department’s guidelines before applying.

Important Deadlines

Morgan State operates on a semester-based calendar with rolling admissions, but priority deadlines are set to ensure full consideration. For the MAT program, fall semester applications are due July 1, and spring semester applications are due December 1. The Graduate School’s general deadline for U.S. citizens and permanent residents is May 1 for fall and December 1 for spring.¹ International applicants should note earlier deadlines: April 1 for fall and November 1 for spring.¹ Meeting these dates is critical, especially if you plan to apply for financial aid or assistantships, which may have separate timelines.

Career and Salary Outcomes for Graduates

Graduating with a master's in education from Morgan State University opens doors to a variety of rewarding master's in education jobs, from classroom teaching to school leadership, with salaries that reflect the advanced preparation and urban education focus of the programs. While comprehensive program-level earnings data is still emerging, available figures and career trajectories illustrate strong financial and professional returns.

Earnings Potential for Education Graduates

Program-specific wage outcomes are not yet reported for all of Morgan State's education degrees, but available benchmarks are telling. Graduates of the M.S. in Educational Administration and Supervision report a median annual wage of $109,347¹, placing them well above national averages for education administrators. For the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), new license holders in Maryland can anticipate starting salaries in the $55,000 to $65,000 range, with experienced teachers earning significantly more, especially in high-demand content areas like science, mathematics, and special education. Institutional data also shows that the overall median earnings for Morgan State alumni ten years after enrollment is approximately $50,698, though this figure aggregates all undergraduate and graduate programs, not just education.

Typical Career Paths

A master's from Morgan State positions you for a range of careers for master's in education. Sample job titles based on program focus include: - MAT graduates: Middle or high school teacher in subjects such as art, biology, chemistry, English, history, mathematics, music, physical education, or physics.² - M.S. in Educational Administration & Supervision graduates: Assistant principal, curriculum supervisor, instructional leader, content supervisor, curriculum coordinator, or central office administrator.¹ - Doctoral graduates (Ph.D.): University faculty member, senior educational leader, policymaker, education researcher, assessment/evaluation specialist, survey researcher, or data scientist.³ While this article focuses on master's programs, many graduates eventually pursue the Ph.D. for top-tier leadership and academic positions.

Alumni Network and Career Support

Morgan State's deep roots in Maryland education provide a robust professional network. The School of Education maintains close partnerships with Baltimore City Public Schools, Prince George's County, Montgomery County, and other districts, which frequently hire Morgan graduates. Teacher candidates complete student teaching placements that often convert to full-time offers. The university's Career Development Center offers workshops, job fairs, and one-on-one advising, while an active alumni association provides mentoring connections. Although public placement rates are not published, the high demand for qualified educators in the region suggests strong employment prospects for completers.

Return on Investment

The financial equation for a Morgan State education master's is compelling. With in-state tuition for the MAT program around $9,981, the estimated return on investment ratio of 1.86 indicates that graduates earn back their educational costs relatively quickly, often within the first two to three years of teaching. For those moving into administration, the salary bump is dramatic and can halve the payback period. Even for out-of-state students, the total cost remains competitive, and many graduates qualify for federal Teacher Loan Forgiveness or Maryland-specific scholarship programs, further reducing the net expense.

Accreditation and Licensure Information

Regional accreditation and programmatic accreditation serve two complementary but distinct purposes in higher education. Regional accreditation evaluates an entire institution for financial, academic, and operational integrity, while programmatic accreditation assesses specific schools or programs against professional standards. For aspiring educators, understanding both layers is essential because regional accreditation unlocks federal aid and credit transfer, whereas programmatic accreditation often signals that a program meets state licensure requirements. Morgan State University holds both types of accreditation, giving graduates a clear pathway to Maryland teaching and administrative certification and placing it among the best master's in education programs in Maryland.

Regional Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Morgan State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), a regional accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.¹ The university's accreditation was reaffirmed in 2026 after a comprehensive self-study and peer review, with the next evaluation scheduled for 2033.² This status applies to all degree levels, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs, as well as distance education offerings. Because Morgan State holds MSCHE accreditation, students qualify for federal financial aid, and credits earned are generally transferable to other accredited institutions. The university also maintains authorization from the Maryland Higher Education Commission, confirming its compliance with state regulations for postsecondary institutions.⁴

Programmatic Accreditation: CAEP for Educator Preparation

Beyond regional accreditation, Morgan State's School of Education holds programmatic accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) at the initial-licensure level.³ This distinction covers the school's undergraduate and graduate initial teacher certification programs, including the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) and certain M.Ed. tracks that lead to a first teaching license. CAEP accreditation is the nationally recognized mark of quality in educator preparation, signifying that a program meets rigorous standards for candidate knowledge, clinical practice, and evidence of impact on P-12 student learning. For advanced preparation programs, such as the M.Ed. in Educational Administration and the Post-Master's Certificate in Community College Administration, the School of Education is approved by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) rather than holding a separate CAEP advanced-level accreditation.⁴ This state approval ensures that graduates of those programs meet the qualifications for administrative and supervisory certification in Maryland.

Maryland Certification Pathways

Not all master's in education programs at Morgan State lead directly to licensure. The School of Education clearly delineates which paths prepare candidates for initial teacher certification, advanced endorsements, or administrative roles. Initial Teacher Preparation programs, like the MAT in elementary or secondary education, include required clinical placements and culminate in eligibility for a Maryland teaching certificate. Advanced Preparation programs, such as the M.Ed. in Educational Administration, lead to Administrator I certification for roles like assistant principal or supervisor. The MSDE sets specific prerequisites for each pathway, including content-area coursework, degree level, and passing scores on state-mandated exams. Candidates should verify with an advisor that their chosen program aligns with their certification goals.

Steps to Earn Your Certification After Graduation

Once you complete a state-approved program at Morgan State, the certification process involves several key steps:

• Program Completion Verification: The School of Education formally recommends you to the MSDE after all degree requirements and clinical experiences are met.
• State-Required Assessments: For teaching certification, you must pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators tests (or qualify for a waiver) and the appropriate Praxis Subject Assessments. For administrator certification, the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) is required.
• Application Submission: Create an account on the MSDE's Educator Portal, submit your official transcripts, exam scores, and the application fee.
• Background Check: Complete a criminal history background check through an approved vendor, as required for all Maryland educators.
• Maintenance and Renewal: Once issued, your professional certificate is valid for five years and can be renewed by earning continuing professional development credits.

The university's Office of Clinical Experiences faculty provide guidance on exam registration and application timelines, ensuring that you meet all state deadlines. For out-of-state candidates, Morgan State's CAEP-accredited programs often facilitate licensure reciprocity, but requirements vary by state, so it is crucial to review teacher licensure FAQs and consult the education department in your intended state of employment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Morgan State Education Programs

Below you will find answers to some of the most common questions about master's in education programs at Morgan State University, covering topics like program value, demand, and practical details.

Other Morgan State University Schools

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Maryland reported 886 unfilled teaching positions for the 2025-2026 school year, signaling strong demand for advanced educators. Morgan State’s master’s in education programs address this need through affordable, flexible online and on-campus pathways grounded in a historic HBCU’s urban-education mission. Ready to take the next step? Attend an online open house or contact the School of Education’s admissions team to discuss your path and secure a strong return on your graduate investment.