Advance Your Teaching Career with a Master's in Education at NC A&T

As the nation’s largest historically Black university, North Carolina A&T State University educates more Black educators than almost any other institution in the country. Its Master of Education programs span specializations from curriculum and instruction to instructional technology and reading literacy, with online and hybrid formats designed for working teachers. The university’s scale and mission create a distinct pipeline: NC A&T supplies classrooms across North Carolina with professionals who reflect the students they serve, a growing priority as districts work to close diversity gaps in the teaching workforce.

Why Choose NC A&T for Your Master's in Education?

What makes North Carolina A&T State University a top choice for earning a master's in education?

A Legacy Built on Community and Excellence

North Carolina A&T State University is the nation's largest historically Black university, and its College of Education has deep roots in Greensboro, a city also home to the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Since its founding in 1891, the university has prioritized preparing educators who reflect and uplift the communities they serve. When you enroll in a graduate program here, you join a network of professionals grounded in equity, social justice, and a commitment to student success. This legacy is not just historical; it is woven into coursework, mentoring, and field experiences.

Affordable, High-Value Graduate Education

Investing in a master's degree should not mean overwhelming debt. NC A&T delivers strong value with accessible pricing and solid career returns. - Net price: Approximately $10,850 for in-state students, keeping graduate education within reach. - Earnings: Across the university, graduates earn a median salary of $44,440 ten years after starting, showing a positive return on your investment. - Graduation rate: A 57% institution-wide rate reflects support systems that help you persist and complete your degree.

These figures, combined with targeted financial aid and scholarships through the College of Education, make NC A&T a sensible choice for advancing your career without sacrificing financial stability.

Culturally Responsive Pedagogy at the Core

NC A&T's teacher preparation programs emphasize culturally responsive teaching, preparing you to engage students from all backgrounds meaningfully. Coursework and clinical placements center on recognizing and building upon students' cultural assets. Thanks to community-engaged partnerships with schools across Greensboro and other North Carolina districts, a hallmark of best master's in education programs in north carolina, you gain hands-on experience in diverse settings. This focus equips you to design inclusive lessons, challenge systemic inequities, and become a leader in your school. The university's HBCU identity further enriches this work, fostering a culture of belonging and excellence that research links to higher graduate student engagement and persistence.

Flexible Formats for Working Professionals

Whether you need fully online, on-campus, or hybrid classes, NC A&T meets you where you are. Many master's specializations offer evening and asynchronous courses, allowing you to continue teaching full-time while earning your degree. The curriculum is designed for immediate classroom application, so you can implement new techniques from your first semester. Clinical practicums often take place in your own school or nearby, minimizing disruption to your work schedule.

M.ed. Programs and Specializations at NC A&T

North Carolina A&T State University structures its graduate education offerings around distinct career goals, whether you’re a licensed teacher aiming to specialize or a career changer seeking initial licensure. The university’s Department of Educator Preparation offers multiple paths: Master of Arts in Education (M.A.Ed.) programs for practicing educators, and Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) programs for those entering the classroom from another field.² Below, we break down each track’s focus and ideal candidate.

Master of Arts in Education (M.A.Ed.) Programs

These degrees are designed for teachers who already hold a license and want to deepen their practice or add a specialization. - MAED in Elementary Education (K, 6): Targeted at experienced elementary teachers, this program builds advanced instructional strategies, curriculum design, and leadership skills. Completing the 30-credit course sequence usually involves a culminating project such as a capstone or thesis, though the exact requirement may vary. - MAED in Reading Education (K, 12): This 30-credit track prepares licensed K, 12 teachers to become reading specialists. Coursework covers literacy assessment, intervention methods, and coaching, and culminates in eligibility for the North Carolina Reading Specialist (K, 12) certification.¹

Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) Programs

If you hold a bachelor’s degree in a field outside of education and want to earn your teaching license while pursuing a master’s, the M.A.T. is your path. NC A&T offers an M.A.T. in Special Education, ideal for career changers committed to working with students who have diverse learning needs. The program combines graduate coursework with clinical experiences, leading to initial licensure in North Carolina.¹

Other Graduate Education Offerings

Specializations like Curriculum & Instruction and Instructional Technology appear in the university’s broader catalog and cater to educators looking to influence school-wide planning, integrate technology, or design professional development. Because program details, including credit hours and culminating experiences, can evolve, check the latest official catalog or visit mastersineducation.org’s dedicated degree pages for Curriculum & Instruction, Reading & Literacy, Instructional Technology, and the Master of Arts in Teaching. To compare NC A&T’s M.Ed. options with those at other North Carolina institutions, visit the profiles for UNCW M.Ed. programs and NC State Master's in Education.

Online, On-Campus, and Hybrid Delivery Options

On-campus learning offers face-to-face networking and immediate access to faculty, while online and hybrid formats provide the flexibility working professionals need to advance their degrees without leaving the classroom. NC A&T delivers its master’s in education programs through a range of modalities so you can choose the path that fits your career stage, location, and schedule.

Online and Hybrid Options for Practicing Teachers

Five of the university’s master’s in education programs are available fully online², making it possible to earn an M.Ed. while teaching full time. The MAEd in Reading Education and the MAEd in Elementary Education are each offered in online, on-campus, and hybrid configurations¹, giving you control over how much time you spend in Greensboro. The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) similarly spans all three delivery modes¹, with 12 concentration areas⁴ that align with North Carolina license areas.

Hybrid classes typically blend asynchronous coursework you complete on your own schedule with periodic synchronous sessions held via video conferencing. This structure preserves the flexibility of a remote program while creating regular touchpoints with instructors and peers. Extended Campus, the university’s online learning arm, provides distance learners with a dedicated orientation, technical support, and full access to the learning management system⁵, so you don’t have to navigate technology challenges alone.

On-Campus and Residency Requirements for Licensure Programs

Some programs, particularly those leading to initial teaching licensure, require in-person clinical placements regardless of the delivery format. The MAT in Special Education, for example, includes 60 hours of clinical experience across two semesters, along with the edTPA performance assessment and Praxis subject tests.³ Because this program follows the North Carolina Residency License route, candidates must already be employed in a North Carolina public school in a relevant teaching position.⁴ The clinical work is completed in your own classroom under university supervision, blending practical application with asynchronous graduate study.

If you are pursuing a Residency License through any MAT concentration, plan for a hybrid experience where online coursework is paired with on-the-job training. Even fully online students should expect some synchronous elements: video conferencing is a standard tool for virtual class meetings, advising sessions, and group projects.

Technology and Student Support for Distance Learners

To participate in online or hybrid courses, you need a reliable computer, high-speed internet access, and a webcam or built-in camera for video conferencing. NC A&T uses a standard learning management system for all course materials, assignments, and discussions.⁵ A&T Online assigns each distance learner an advisor who helps with course selection, registration, and troubleshooting technical issues.⁵ You also have remote access to library databases, writing center consultations, and career services, ensuring that support extends beyond the virtual classroom.

Deciding between on-campus and online often comes down to how you learn best and what your professional obligations look like. If you thrive on in-person collaboration and can commit to a commute, on-campus courses maximize face time with faculty and classmates. If you need to maintain full-time employment or live outside the Triad region, online or hybrid delivery lets you advance your credential without relocating. The hybrid model offers a middle ground, combining at-home convenience with occasional campus visits for workshops, orientation sessions, or intensive weekend classes. No matter which format you choose, NC A&T structures the experience to accommodate adult learners balancing work, graduate study, and personal responsibilities.

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid

How much does a master’s in education cost at North Carolina A&T, and what financial aid can offset the expense? Tuition at NC A&T is structured to be straightforward, with a per-credit rate that makes planning your investment manageable. Most M.Ed. specializations require 30 to 36 credits, and the current per-credit graduate tuition rate is $260¹. This per-credit figure applies uniformly to online and many on-campus programs, making NC A&T a competitively priced option, especially for educators seeking a high-quality degree from a respected HBCU.

Tuition Breakdown: Per-Credit Costs

NC A&T’s graduate tuition for M.Ed. students is set at a flat rate of $260 per credit hour. This rate governs coursework across concentrations like Reading Education, Curriculum & Instruction, and Special Education, whether you study online or on campus. Because the university does not differentiate between in-state and out-of-state tuition for most online graduate programs, all distance learners pay the same affordable rate, eliminating location-based cost barriers.

Estimated Total Program Cost

Your total tuition depends on the number of credits required by your chosen specialization. With programs ranging from 30 to 36 credits, you can expect to pay between $7,800 and $9,360 in tuition¹. To arrive at your full program cost, you must add mandatory fees, which cover technology, student services, and other institutional resources. For the most recent academic year with complete data, these mandatory fees total $3,273³. Therefore, a reasonable estimate for your entire M.Ed. program falls between $11,073 and $12,633. This figure excludes textbooks, course materials, and any optional lab or background check expenses. NC A&T requires a background check for education students⁴.

Mandatory Fees

Beyond per-credit tuition, every graduate student pays mandatory fees that support campus infrastructure and student services. The published fee schedule for 2023-2024 lists a total of $3,273 annually for full-time graduate enrollment³. These fees cover technology access, student health and wellness resources, recreational facilities, and administrative services. Part-time students may pay fees on a prorated basis, so your individual total can vary if you take fewer courses per term.

Financial Aid Options

NC A&T participates in all major federal financial aid programs. As a graduate student, you can apply for Federal Unsubsidized Loans and Graduate PLUS Loans to cover tuition and living expenses. Additionally, the TEACH Grant program offers up to $8,250 per year⁴ to students who commit to teaching in a high-need field at a low-income school. North Carolina’s Teaching Fellows program provides forgivable loans for educators who teach in state public schools, and the university itself awards a limited number of graduate assistantships that include tuition remission and a stipend. Be sure to file the FAFSA and check with the Office of Financial Aid for state-specific scholarships and external educator grants.

Value Compared to Other North Carolina Programs

When you compare the total cost of NC A&T’s M.Ed. to other graduate education programs across the state, such as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and University of North Carolina at Pembroke, the value becomes clear. Many peer institutions charge higher per-credit rates, especially for out-of-state or online learners. NC A&T’s flat-rate tuition model, combined with its status as a top-tier HBCU, delivers a rigorous curriculum at a price point that can save you thousands of dollars over the life of your degree. Graduates enter the workforce with strong earning potential in roles like reading specialist, instructional coordinator, or special education teacher, making the return on your educational investment especially promising.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Admission Requirements and Application Process

What are the requirements and deadlines for applying to an NC A&T master’s in education?

The College of Education at North Carolina A&T sets a clear but varied set of admission criteria, depending on which M.Ed., MAT, MAEd, or MS program you choose. While the Graduate College maintains baseline standards, each specialization may adjust GPA minimums, test score policies, and prerequisite credentials.

General Admission Standards

• Degree: A bachelor’s from a regionally accredited institution.
• GPA: The Graduate College baseline is 3.0¹, but many education programs accept a 2.80.
• Test Scores: Policies differ. The MAT in Special Education does not require the GRE³, while the MAEd in Reading Education⁴ and the MS in Instructional Technology do⁵. Some programs allow waivers; confirm with your intended specialization.
• English Proficiency: International applicants must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores unless they hold a degree from a U.S. institution.¹

Program-Specific Prerequisites

• Initial Licensure MAT (General and Special Education): You need 24 credit hours of content-related coursework (for the General track)² and a background check^{2 3}. No teaching license is required, as these programs lead to initial licensure.
• Advanced Licensure and Endorsement Programs: The MAEd in Reading Education and the MS in Instructional Technology’s Director and Media Coordinator concentration require a current North Carolina ‘A’ level teaching license^{4 5}. The MSA in School Administration calls for four years of professional education experience and a valid license⁶.

How to Apply

All applications are submitted online through the Graduate College portal¹. A complete file typically includes: - Online application form¹ - Official transcripts from every institution attended¹ - Letters of recommendation: Most programs require three¹; the MAT and MAEd programs specifically ask for three^{3 4}. - Personal statement detailing your goals and readiness for graduate study¹ - Resume or CV outlining relevant experience¹

Some programs also mandate a background check (MAT tracks^{2 3}) or an interview.

Key Deadlines

• Fall entry: January 15 is the priority deadline for most M.Ed. programs¹. The MSA in School Administration has a February 1 deadline⁶.
• Spring and summer entry: Deadlines vary by specialization. Contact the program coordinator or visit the program page for exact dates, as not all programs admit every term.

Submitting materials early is recommended, as faculty review begins shortly after the deadline and spaces can fill quickly.

Application Checklist at a Glance

A complete application to North Carolina A&T's M.Ed. programs typically includes the items below. Some specializations may request additional materials such as a writing sample, portfolio, or interview.

• Online Application & Fee

  Submit the application through the university's graduate admissions portal and pay the $60 nonrefundable fee.
• Bachelor's Degree

  A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution is required.
• Official Transcripts

  Provide official transcripts from every college or university attended. Unofficial copies may be used for initial review.
• Minimum GPA

  A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is expected, though exceptions may be considered.
• Letters of Recommendation

  Three letters of recommendation from academic or professional contacts.
• Personal Statement

  A statement of purpose describing your goals and reasons for pursuing the degree.
• Résumé

  A current résumé or CV that highlights relevant experience.
• Teaching License

  A copy of your valid teaching license is required for advanced M.Ed. specializations.
• GRE or MAT Scores

  Submit official GRE or MAT scores only if required by your program. Check for waiver options.
• English Proficiency

  Non-native English speakers must meet the minimum score (e.g., TOEFL iBT 75) or provide equivalent proof of proficiency.
• Background Check

  A background check may be requested for programs with field placements or clinical experiences.

Career and Salary Outcomes for Graduates

Graduates of North Carolina A&T's Master's in Education programs step into classrooms and leadership roles across the state with credentials that align with North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) licensure requirements. While program-level earnings data for NC A&T M.Ed. completers are not yet available from the College Scorecard, the university's teacher preparation pipeline consistently places alumni in public school districts throughout the Piedmont Triad and beyond.

Earnings and Career Pathways

North Carolina teacher salaries are determined by a state salary schedule that rewards experience, advanced degrees, and National Board Certification.¹ For NC A&T M.Ed. holders who complete an advanced licensure program, such as Curriculum & Instruction, Reading Education, or Instructional Technology, the master's degree typically moves them to the "M" (master's) pay column after they have three or more years of teaching experience. However, graduates of the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program, which provides an initial license, should be aware that a class initial-level master's may not qualify for master's-level pay under current state policy until they transition to a continuing license.¹ Local supplements, which vary by district, can add several thousand dollars to the base salary. The typical salary range for a North Carolina teacher with a master's degree and five years of experience falls between $45,000 and $55,000, though this figure rises with seniority, additional certifications, and moving into coaching or administrative roles.

• Curriculum Specialist: Often serving as instructional coaches, department chairs, or district curriculum coordinators. They design professional development, align instructional materials to standards, and support classroom teachers in raising student achievement.
• Reading Specialist: Graduates with the Reading Education concentration deliver targeted literacy intervention, coach colleagues in evidence-based literacy practices, and often serve as Title I reading teachers or district literacy leaders.
• Instructional Technologist: These specialists guide technology integration, manage learning management systems, and train teachers on digital tools. They are increasingly hired as school- or district-level instructional technology facilitators.
• Classroom Teacher (MAT): Elementary Education MAT completers teach kindergarten through sixth grade across all core subjects. Secondary MAT graduates in areas such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, or Technology Education fill critical shortage positions in middle and high schools. Special Education MAT alumni work as exceptional children's teachers, advocates, and liaisons.

Licensure and Endorsement Alignment

Every NC A&T M.Ed. program is approved by NCDPI and leads to a clear licensure outcome.² The MAT program is designed for career changers and lateral entry candidates who hold a bachelor's degree in a non-education field; it culminates in an initial North Carolina teaching license in one of 12 concentration areas, including Elementary Education, Special Education, and several secondary STEM subjects.³ The program also offers a Residency License pathway, allowing candidates to teach full-time while completing coursework.³ Advanced M.Ed. concentrations, such as Curriculum & Instruction, Reading Education (K, 12), and Instructional Technology, recommend graduates for advanced competencies or add-on endorsements.⁴ For example, the Reading Education track prepares candidates for the K, 12 Reading Specialist license, enabling them to serve as literacy coaches and interventionists across all grade levels.

Where NC A&T Graduates Work

NC A&T education alumni are heavily employed within North Carolina, with significant concentrations in Guilford County Schools, Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and Durham Public Schools. The university's deep roots in the HBCU community and its legacy of training educators for high-need schools mean that graduates are often recruited by districts seeking to diversify their teaching staffs. Sectors that consistently hire NC A&T M.Ed. completers include public K, 12 districts, charter school networks, state education agencies, and nonprofit educational service providers. While precise employment share statistics are not reported at the program level, the university's strong partnerships with local and regional school systems create a steady pipeline of job opportunities.

Program-level earnings data for NC A&T’s master’s in education completers is not yet available from the U.S. Department of Education.

Frequently Asked Questions About NC A&T's M.ed.

Find answers to common questions about NC A&T's Master of Education programs, from licensure and delivery formats to financial support.

Related Articles