Master's in Education at Quincy University: Programs & Career Pathways

Is a master's in education worth it for Illinois teachers? Nearly 60 percent already hold one, driven by salary schedules that reward advanced degrees and by district expectations that teacher-leaders hold graduate credentials. Quincy University's Master of Science in Education offers working educators multiple flexible pathways, including Curriculum and Instruction, Special Education, and building-level leadership, with online and hybrid delivery that fits a full-time teaching schedule. The decision to pursue graduate study ultimately comes down to a clear calculation: in Illinois, an advanced degree unlocks salary lanes and endorsement areas that a bachelor's alone does not.

Quincy University’s Master’s in Education Programs

Graduate students in Quincy University's Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) choose from three licensure tracks: a master's in elementary education, a master's in secondary education, and Special Education, or pursue a non-licensure concentration in Curriculum and Instruction, Teacher Leader, or Leadership. The program is designed for working educators who need flexible scheduling, with courses offered online and during evening hours.¹

Program Pathways and Concentrations

The licensure tracks prepare candidates for initial Illinois teaching credentials through a 16-week internship embedded in partner schools.¹ The non-licensure concentrations allow experienced teachers to deepen their expertise (see our guide on how to choose a master's in education specialization for tips) without adding a new endorsement. The Curriculum and Instruction concentration, for example, can be combined with a Bilingual/ESL endorsement for educators serving linguistically diverse classrooms.

• Licensure areas: Elementary Education, Secondary/Middle School Education, Special Education
• Non-licensure concentrations: Curriculum and Instruction, Curriculum and Instruction with Bilingual/ESL Endorsement, Teacher Leader, Leadership

Accreditation and Values

Quincy University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and its teacher preparation programs hold approval from the Illinois State Board of Education. The School of Education does not carry CAEP accreditation.² The program is grounded in the university’s Catholic Franciscan tradition, which emphasizes ethical leadership, service, and respect for human dignity. Faculty integrate these values into coursework, encouraging graduates to lead with compassion in their schools and communities.

Designed for Working Professionals

The M.S.Ed. operates on a professional development school model, blending theory with school-embedded practice.³ Courses are offered online and in the evening, allowing full-time teachers to advance their careers without leaving the classroom. The program is led by experienced faculty, including Dr. Daniel Priebe, Director of MSE and Director of Student Teaching, and supported by admissions staff like Amy K. Stollberg, Associate Dean of Transfer and Graduate Admissions, who guide candidates through the application process.¹

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Curriculum & Instruction Specialization at Quincy University

The Curriculum & Instruction specialization at Quincy University delivers a rigorous, practice-based graduate experience that transforms classroom teachers into instructional leaders and curriculum designers. The program strikes a deliberate balance between theory and application, preparing you to analyze student data, design equitable learning experiences, and guide colleagues toward improved outcomes[[CITE:1]].

## What You'll Study

The Master of Science in Education (MSEd) with a [[LINK:1|masters in curriculum and instruction]] concentration requires 36 to 39 credit hours, structured into a 9-credit core, 24 credits of specialization coursework, and a culminating master’s project[[CITE:2]]. Core courses ground you in research methodology and educational foundations, while the concentration dives deeper.

- **MSE 505 Perspectives in Curriculum and Technology**[[CITE:2]] examines how digital tools and curricular frameworks intersect to create 21st-century learning environments. - **Assessment courses (MSE 503 and MSE 555)** train you to design formative and summative assessments, interpret achievement data, and use evidence to drive instructional decisions. - **MSE 600 Research Methodology** builds your capacity to critically evaluate educational research and conduct your own inquiry.

## Skills You'll Develop

Throughout the program, you will sharpen three high-impact skill sets that districts actively seek.

- **Curriculum design:** Learn to map standards, sequence content across grade levels, and integrate technology in ways that deepen student engagement. - **Assessment literacy:** Move beyond test scores to create balanced systems that inform teaching in real time. - **Instructional coaching:** Develop the communication and feedback strategies needed to mentor peers, lead professional learning communities, or serve as a department head.

The sequence is designed with a teacher-leader orientation, meaning coursework consistently asks you to apply concepts directly to your own classroom or school setting[[CITE:3]].

## Career Pathways

Graduates of this concentration frequently move into roles such as curriculum specialist, instructional coordinator, academic coach, or teacher leader at the school or district level[[CITE:3]]. The blend of assessment expertise and curriculum leadership also positions you well for future administrative licensure pathways in Illinois if you choose to pursue them.

## The Capstone Experience

The program culminates with **MSE 601 Master’s Project**, a 3-credit applied research endeavor[[CITE:2]]. Working closely with a faculty advisor, you will identify a problem of practice, collect and analyze data, and implement an improvement plan. The final deliverable often takes the form of a professional portfolio that documents your growth, showcases refined curriculum materials, and demonstrates your ability to lead instructional change. This project serves as both a credential and a tangible artifact you can present in job interviews or performance reviews.

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid for Quincy’s M.ed. Programs

The cost of a graduate degree is a primary concern for working educators, and Quincy University structures its tuition to be straightforward. The university charges a per-credit rate, allowing students to budget semester by semester. All three specializations within the Master of Science in Education program follow the same tuition and fee model, so the total cost depends on the number of credits required to complete the degree.

Per-Credit and Total Program Cost

For the 2026-27 academic year, the per-credit tuition rate is $540, as listed in Quincy University’s graduate tuition and costs budget. An additional graduate fee of $15¹ per credit is assessed on every course registration, bringing the effective per-credit cost to $555. Based on a typical 30-credit program, the total estimated cost of the Master’s in Education at Quincy University is $16,650. This figure includes both tuition and the mandatory graduate fee for all required coursework. Students who transfer in eligible graduate credits or who pursue a different credit load will see an adjusted total.

Fees Beyond Tuition

The $15 per-credit graduate fee is the primary mandatory charge beyond tuition. Quincy University notes that other fees may apply to graduate students depending on enrollment circumstances², such as technology fees, course material costs, or graduation fees. Applicants should confirm the exact fee schedule with the bursar’s office during the admissions process to avoid surprises.

Financial Aid Options

Quincy University offers several pathways to make the M.Ed. more affordable. A key benefit is the partnership discount available to current employees of public and private K-12 schools³. This discount can significantly reduce the per-credit cost for teachers and staff pursuing career advancement. In addition, all graduate students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal loans. Many school districts also provide tuition reimbursement programs, and outside scholarships may be accessed through professional organizations or community foundations. While graduate assistantships are not widely advertised for this program, students can inquire directly with the education department about any available paid work opportunities.

What You’ll Actually Pay: Breaking Down the Cost

Quincy University’s M.Ed. total cost is driven by per-credit tuition and mandatory fees, plus books and supplies. Discounts and financial aid can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expense.

Online, On-Campus, and Hybrid Learning Options

Graduate education programs increasingly offer flexibility through multiple delivery formats to accommodate working professionals. At Quincy University, candidates interested in the Master’s in Education can choose among online, on-campus, and hybrid pathways, but the exact availability of each option may vary by specialization or term. To find the most current offerings, start by exploring the university’s official website. Navigate to the ‘Programs’ or ‘Academics’ section and filter by education or graduate studies; this often reveals whether a given M.Ed. track is delivered fully online, in person, or through a blend of both.

Finding the Right Format for You

Online programs can be synchronous, requiring live class attendance at scheduled times, or asynchronous with self-paced access. Hybrid models combine virtual coursework with periodic on-campus sessions, which may include residencies, orientation weekends, or collaborative workshops. For educators balancing full-time teaching roles, asynchronous online courses often provide the greatest scheduling freedom, while those seeking face-to-face mentorship may prefer a campus experience. Quincy University designs its M.Ed. curriculum to support working professionals, but the specific structure, such as cohort models or self-directed timelines, must be confirmed directly.

Verify with the University Directly

Program information posted online can lag behind academic calendar updates. Contact the university’s admissions or education department via email or phone to clarify: Are classes synchronous or asynchronous? Are there accelerated or part-time tracks? Do any in-person requirements exist, such as student teaching, practicums, or brief residencies? Speaking with a program advisor ensures you understand the time commitment and whether it aligns with your professional and personal obligations.

Use Reliable External Resources

Beyond Quincy’s own materials, consult authoritative sources for broader context. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS.gov) offers career outlook data for roles often pursued with an M.Ed., helping you weigh program formats against long-term goals. Professional associations like the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) provide insights into accreditation standards and delivery trends across graduate education programs, which can inform your expectations about quality and flexibility.

Stay Updated on Program Changes

Curriculum and delivery methods evolve. Always review the latest graduate catalog, academic bulletin, or program handbook from Quincy University. These documents hold the most accurate details on prerequisites, course sequencing, and any new learning modalities. Confirm whether the format you choose still meets state licensure or endorsement requirements, especially if you plan to teach outside Illinois.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Admission Requirements and Application Process

Gaining admission to Quincy University’s Master of Science in Education (MSEd) programs requires careful preparation, but the process is clear and supportive for candidates who meet the foundational requirements. Whether you are pursuing teacher licensure, counseling, or another specialization, the admissions team reviews each application holistically, looking for evidence of academic ability and professional promise.

Academic Prerequisites and GPA

All applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.¹ The university sets a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 for full admission.¹ If your GPA falls between 2.8 and 3.0, you may be considered for conditional admission, which allows you to enroll and prove your capability in graduate-level coursework.¹ Once admitted, all MSEd students must maintain a cumulative 3.0 GPA to remain in good standing.³ The counseling concentration adds a requirement: you may earn no more than two grades of C in your program, ensuring that clinical skills are developed to the highest standard.²

Standardized Test Requirements

Testing requirements vary by concentration. For the teacher licensure track, candidates must pass the Illinois Test of Academic Proficiency (TAP) or an approved alternate, along with the state-mandated content tests for their intended endorsement area.¹ These exams verify your readiness to enter the classroom as a teacher-leader. The counseling program, in contrast, accepts the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) or GRE scores as optional but preferred.¹ While not required, submitting competitive scores can strengthen an application. Additionally, counseling students must pass the Illinois Counseling Content Test before beginning their practicum or internship.²

Application Materials

A complete application includes several components. You will need to submit official transcripts from every college or university attended. The program requires two to three letters of recommendation, typically from academic or professional references who can speak to your potential for graduate study and leadership in education.¹ A well-crafted personal statement or essay is essential; the counseling program specifies two prompts, each with a 500-word limit, designed to assess your motivation and fit for the field.¹ For other MSEd concentrations, the essay should clearly articulate your career goals and how the degree aligns with them. If you hold a teaching license, be prepared to provide documentation, especially if you are seeking an endorsement or additional licensure through the program.

Application Deadlines and Review

Quincy University operates on a rolling admissions model for its graduate education programs.² There is no hard deadline for most terms, but spaces fill quickly, so it is wise to complete your application well before your intended start date. The admissions office begins reviewing files as soon as they are complete, and you can typically expect a decision within a few weeks.³ For the best financial aid consideration and to secure your place in high-demand cohorts, applying early is strongly recommended.²

Licensure and Endorsements in Illinois

Pursuing a master's in education in Illinois often goes hand in hand with obtaining or expanding your teaching credentials. Licensure refers to the initial Professional Educator License (PEL) required to teach in public schools, while endorsements are add-ons that authorize you to teach specific subjects, grade levels, or student populations. Quincy University's graduate programs align with Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) requirements¹ to help you either launch your teaching career or deepen your expertise.

Programs That Lead to Initial Licensure

For aspiring educators without a teaching background, two Quincy University M.S. in Education tracks provide a direct path to your first PEL. The Elementary Education program (grades 1-6) and the Secondary Education program (grades 9-12) both include all required professional education coursework, clinical practice, and preparation for ISBE content tests². Secondary candidates can choose from concentrations in biology, English, history, or math. Both programs also embed the corresponding endorsement, so graduates are ready to teach in their chosen area immediately.

Adding Endorsements to an Existing License

If you already hold a valid Illinois PEL, several Quincy M.Ed. options focus solely on earning a new endorsement. These include Bilingual Education, English as a Second Language (ESL), Reading Education, and Special Education. Each is designed to meet ISBE's subsequent endorsement requirements: 18 semester hours in the endorsement area plus passage of the applicable content test³. Because the coursework is concentrated, you can often complete an endorsement alongside your professional responsibilities.

The Curriculum & Instruction Track

Quincy's Curriculum & Instruction specialization stands apart because it does not directly lead to licensure or an endorsement. Instead, it serves as a graduate-level deep dive into instructional design, assessment, and classroom leadership. However, the credits you earn can be strategically applied toward a later endorsement if the coursework aligns with ISBE's content-area standards². This makes it a flexible choice for teachers who want to strengthen their practice while keeping future credential options open.

Meeting Illinois Requirements

All licensure and endorsement candidates must complete an ISBE-approved program with a minimum grade of C in every course². Clinical experiences are built into licensure tracks, ensuring you log the required hours in a real classroom setting. Quincy's education advisors guide you through the process, from course sequencing to test registration, so you stay on track toward full certification.

Career Outcomes and Salary Prospects for M.ed. Graduates

A master’s degree can open doors to higher salaries and leadership roles, while sticking with a bachelor’s may limit long-term growth. For educators, the decision to pursue graduate study at Quincy University often hinges on the tangible ROI of a master's in education that an M.Ed. provides.

While program-level earnings data for Quincy’s M.Ed. graduates are not yet available, the university’s overall median earnings for graduates who received federal aid stands at $50,369. This figure provides a useful baseline, but it’s important to note that salaries in education increase substantially with advanced degrees, experience, and role progression. Many school districts in Illinois and across the country have structured salary schedules that automatically reward a master’s degree with a pay boost of 10 to 20% above a bachelor’s-only salary. Over a career, that differential can add up to tens of thousands of dollars.

Salary Advantage for Master’s Degree Holders

Teachers who earn a Master of Science in Education, such as the one offered at Quincy, position themselves for both immediate and long-term financial gains. According to national averages, the master's in education salary is $5,000 to $10,000 higher per year than a bachelor's-only salary. In Illinois, union contracts or district policies typically embed these step increases, so the return is nearly guaranteed once you complete an accredited program like Quincy’s. The Curriculum & Instruction concentration specifically aligns with roles that often command higher pay, such as instructional coaches and curriculum directors.

Common Career Paths for Quincy M.Ed. Graduates

Graduates of Quincy’s M.Ed. program move into a variety of roles beyond the traditional classroom. Common positions include curriculum specialist, instructional coach, department head, and teacher leader, often requiring teacher leadership skills such as mentoring peers, designing professional development, or leading district-wide curriculum changes. These roles are compensated accordingly. A curriculum specialist in Illinois, for example, might earn a median salary in the mid-$60,000s, while experienced instructional coaches can push into the $70,000 range. Many alumni also use the degree as a stepping stone toward principal licensure or doctoral studies, further expanding their earning potential.

Long-Term Earning Potential

As an M.Ed. graduate, your salary trajectory doesn’t plateau after five years. Leadership roles often come with administrative stipends or higher pay bands. When combined with annual step increases and continuing education credits, the 5 to 10 year outlook for a Quincy M.Ed. holder is promising. While specific 5-year post-graduation earnings data isn’t published for this program, master’s-prepared teachers who move into coaching or curriculum leadership often see compensation rise to $65,000 to $80,000, depending on district and region. Quincy’s focus on applied learning and Franciscan values prepares graduates to lead with confidence and credibility, making them strong candidates for these higher-paying opportunities.

Median Earnings: Quincy M.ed. Graduates

Student Experience: Practicum, Capstone, and Support

For many working teachers, the decision to pursue a graduate degree comes down to balancing professional obligations with the need for meaningful field experience. Quincy University designs its Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed) to support that balance by embedding guided field work into the curriculum and pairing it with individual advising.

Practicum and Field Experience

The program does not require a standalone thesis or action research project. Instead, a culminating practicum or internship serves as the bridge between coursework and real-world application. Students choose from several field-based options: an assessment course, Practicum I and II, or Internship I and II. Up to 6 credits can be earned through these placements¹, which are tailored to each student’s professional goals and setting.

For those pursuing licensure, student teaching is a required component,⁴ and our student teaching survival guide offers practical advice. The hours and structure align with Illinois State Board of Education regulations, ensuring graduates are eligible for the endorsements they seek. Candidates in school counseling concentrations complete a separate counseling practicum (MEC 580), which requires 100 clinical hours, including 40 hours of direct service to K-12 students.³

Academic Support and Advising

Academic support begins at admission and continues through graduation. Every student is assigned an academic advisor⁶ who helps map out a degree plan and navigate course sequencing. The program director, Daniel Priebe,⁵ oversees student progress and ensures that each candidate meets the 3.0 cumulative GPA requirement² and candidacy maintenance guidelines, which include enrolling in at least one course each year.¹

Quincy also offers success coaching,⁶ a resource that extends beyond course selection to address time management, study strategies, and work-life balance. While a formal cohort model is not in place, students can still build peer connections through shared elective courses and faculty-led networking events. The university’s career services office provides additional support with résumé reviews and interview preparation, though school-specific job placement data is not yet published.

Program Flexibility and Progress

With a 30-credit curriculum¹ and a six-year completion window,¹ the M.S.Ed accommodates full-time educators who need to pace themselves. The 21-credit residency requirement¹ ensures that a significant portion of the degree is earned through Quincy coursework, preserving the program’s identity while allowing for a limited number of transfer credits. Students maintain active candidacy by taking at least one course annually,¹ a flexible standard that reduces the risk of stop-outs and keeps the degree within reach.

Frequently Asked Questions About Quincy University’s M.ed.

Prospective students often have questions about accreditation, cost, licensure, and flexibility. Here are straightforward answers to help you decide if Quincy University’s M.Ed. is right for you.

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