Master's in Education at University of Holy Cross: Programs & Specializations

Nationally, teachers with a master’s degree out-earn their bachelor’s-only peers by 8.2%, a gap that widens with experience. At University of Holy Cross in New Orleans, a private Catholic institution, graduate education programs are built around that earning potential and a faith-based commitment to service. The M.Ed. tracks in Educational Leadership, Special Education, and Reading & Literacy are designed for working educators who want to advance without pausing their careers.

For teachers in Louisiana, where salary schedules reward advanced degrees, the financial return depends on choosing an accredited, affordable program. UHC’s offerings blend online accessibility with clinical requirements, creating a practical path for educators balancing full-time work and graduate study.

M.ed. Specializations: Educational & Teacher Leadership, Special Education, Reading & Literacy

University of Holy Cross provides targeted Master of Education (M.Ed.) programs that address critical needs in today's schools. Two primary pathways are currently available: an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership and an online M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning. The Educational Leadership program ² is designed for teachers who aspire to move into administrative positions, such as principal or instructional coordinator. Its coursework typically covers school law, organizational management, and instructional supervision, equipping graduates with the skills to lead effectively in K-12 settings. Meanwhile, the Teaching and Learning M.Ed. ¹ is delivered fully online, making it accessible for working professionals. This program emphasizes advanced pedagogical techniques, assessment design, and differentiated instruction, allowing teachers to deepen their impact in the classroom without leaving their current jobs.

Educators exploring a master's in teacher leadership will find that the Teaching and Learning M.Ed. aligns closely with that field, focusing on enhancing instructional practice rather than administrative roles. Both programs reflect the university's Lasallian mission of service and academic excellence.

According to the university's master's degree catalog, additional specializations in special education or reading and literacy are not currently listed.³ This means that educators seeking targeted training in those areas may need to look beyond Holy Cross. For instance, a reading and literacy degree can be found at other institutions, providing in-depth study of literacy development, diagnostic methods, and intervention strategies. Similarly, those committed to special education might consider a program like the Lynn University special education master's, which prepares teachers to work with students with diverse learning needs.

While Holy Cross's offerings are concentrated, its M.Ed. programs deliver practical, career-oriented education. The online Teaching and Learning option is particularly attractive for teachers in Louisiana and beyond, given its flexibility and the university's regional accreditation. Graduates emerge prepared to meet the evolving demands of education, whether through leadership or refined instructional expertise. Prospective students should review program pages for the most current curriculum and admission details.

How UHC Delivers Its M.ed.: Online, On-Campus, and Hybrid Options

Choosing between the flexibility of online learning and the intensive, hands-on nature of clinical practice is a central tension for educators pursuing a master's degree. The University of Holy Cross addresses this directly by delivering its M.Ed. programs entirely online while integrating school-based fieldwork that fits into a working teacher's professional life.

No campus visits, full online delivery

Every M.Ed. specialization at UHC is available online, without any required on-campus residencies or in-person meetings.¹ This includes programs like Educational Leadership, Teaching & Learning with concentrations in Special Education, Reading Specialist, ESL, and others.² The online format uses a blend of asynchronous coursework, which you can complete on your own schedule, and occasional synchronous sessions where you and your cohort connect live with instructors. This structure is built for full-time educators who need to balance graduate school with classroom responsibilities and personal obligations.

School-based clinical experiences, not campus labs

Despite being fully online, the M.Ed. programs include critical clinical components, especially for specializations like Special Education (Mild/Moderate) and Reading Specialist. However, these practicum hours are completed in your own school or a nearby school, never on the UHC campus. For example, the Educational Leadership M.Ed. requires a 250-hour internship³ where you work directly with a mentor principal or district leader at your school site. Similarly, field experiences for Reading Specialist and Special Education candidates involve supervised teaching, assessment, and intervention in real classrooms. This design allows you to apply new skills immediately in your professional context while meeting Louisiana certification requirements.

Flexibility built for working teachers

Because all clinical work happens where you already teach, UHC's model eliminates the need to take leave or travel. Courses are paced to accommodate a teacher's calendar, with multiple start dates per year. The online environment also fosters a professional learning community among peers across Louisiana and beyond, adding a broader perspective to your education. For educators balancing teaching and grad school, UHC's approach keeps the focus squarely on career advancement without forcing a choice between job responsibilities and academic growth.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Admission Requirements for UHC’s M.ed. Programs

Some graduate programs screen applicants with high-stakes entrance exams; for University of Holy Cross, the M.Ed. application centers on your academic and professional narrative, not a test score. UHC’s admission process is designed to identify educators who are ready to lead, teach, or specialize, whether they are current classroom teachers or professionals pivoting into education. Below, we break down exactly what you need to submit, the minimum academic thresholds, and key deadlines to keep in mind.

What You’ll Need to Submit

A complete application to a UHC M.Ed. program includes several standard components. First, you must fill out the online graduate application form.¹ Official transcripts from every college or university you’ve attended are required; these must show a conferred bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.¹ For international students, a TOEFL score of at least 79 iBT or 550 paper-based is needed unless English is your native language.¹ UHC also asks for a writing assessment, which may take the form of a personal statement or a short essay prompt. This lets the admissions committee gauge your goals and communication skills.¹ While not explicitly listed, many graduate programs also expect two or three letters of recommendation and a current résumé, so it’s wise to prepare those as well. If you’re applying to a specialization like Educational Leadership, additional documents such as a copy of your teaching certificate or proof of at least three years of professional experience in education may be requested, though the general M.Ed. tracks do not mandate these.

GPA and Test Score Policies

The university sets a baseline GPA requirement that varies slightly by program. Broadly, a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.7 or higher is expected, though some programs may accept a GPA as low as 2.5 on a case-by-case basis, especially when combined with strong professional experience or a compelling statement. For the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, the published range is between 2.5 and 2.999, meaning some flexibility exists.¹ Critically, UHC does not require the GRE or MAT for any of its M.Ed. programs.¹ If you’ve already taken one of these exams, you may submit scores to bolster your application, but there is no penalty for applicants who skip them. A GRE waiver is also available for those who qualify; details on eligibility should be confirmed directly with the graduate office.¹

Who’s Eligible: Experience and Background

All UHC M.Ed. tracks welcome both career changers and experienced teachers. No prior teaching experience is required for admission; the programs are structured to support newcomers to the field while also deepening the expertise of veteran educators.¹ That said, certain concentrations like Educational Leadership typically assume you already hold a teaching license and have spent at least a few years in a school setting. If you’re new to education, you can enter the curriculum and instruction or reading/literacy tracks without any classroom background. This dual-access design makes UHC a practical choice whether you’re seeking an initial certification route or an advanced standalone degree.

When and How to Apply

The primary deadline for fall enrollment in the M.Ed. program is typically in early September. UHC operates on a rolling admission basis for some terms, notably the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) pathway.² For the standard M.Ed., it’s best to have all materials in by the posted date. Spring and summer starts may be available; check the university’s academic calendar for specific cycles. Once submitted, applications are typically reviewed within a few weeks, and admitted students can begin course registration shortly thereafter.

Tuition, Financial Aid, and What a UHC M.ed. Actually Costs

Funding a master's degree means balancing immediate expense with long-term salary growth. For educators, the cost of an M.Ed. can vary dramatically by school, but understanding the full picture, tuition, fees, and available aid, makes the decision clearer. At University of Holy Cross (UHC), the cost structure is straightforward, and multiple financial aid avenues can reduce the final bill.

Per-Credit Tuition and Total Program Cost

UHC charges a flat per-credit graduate tuition rate, with no distinction between in-state and out-of-state students. For the current academic year, that rate stands at $760 per credit hour.¹ Most M.Ed. specializations at UHC require between 30 and 36 total credits to complete, though exact credit counts may vary slightly by track. For a 30-credit program, total tuition would be approximately $22,800; a 36-credit program would cost about $27,360 before any discounts, scholarships, or employer assistance.

Fees Beyond Tuition

Like most universities, UHC includes additional mandatory fees each semester. While the exact fees can change from year to year, graduate students typically pay a technology fee, a library access fee, and a general services charge. Some education courses may also carry a minor field experience or portfolio assessment fee, especially if the specialization involves a practicum component. These fees generally range from $200 to $500 per semester and are not included in the per-credit rate, so budgeting an extra $1,000 to $1,500 across the length of the program is a safe estimate.

Financial Aid and Employer Support

• Federal aid: Graduate students at UHC are eligible to apply for federal financial aid by submitting the FAFSA. This opens access to unsubsidized federal loans and, if qualified, the TEACH Grant, a federal program that awards up to $4,000 per year to students who commit to teaching in a high-need field at a low-income school.
• Institutional support: UHC offers a limited number of graduate scholarships and assistantships administered through the education department. These can offset a portion of tuition in exchange for research or administrative work. Check with the program coordinator early, as deadlines are often early spring.
• Employer tuition reimbursement: Many K, 12 school districts and private schools in Louisiana have tuition reimbursement programs for current teachers. Some cover a set number of credits per year, drastically lowering out-of-pocket costs. Confirming your district's policy could mean the difference between borrowing and paying as you go.

How UHC's M.Ed. Cost Compares Nationally

The national average total tuition for a master's in education typically falls between $25,000 and $35,000, depending on public or private institution status. UHC's estimated range of $22,800 to $27,360, plus modest fees, places it squarely within the affordable middle for a private university. When you layer in possible TEACH Grant funding, employer reimbursement, or UHC scholarships, the net price can dip well below that average, making the program a competitive option for Louisiana educators who want an accredited degree and an affordable M.Ed.

Career Outcomes: Where UHC M.ed. Graduates Work and What They Earn

Earning a Master of Education from University of Holy Cross opens two distinct career avenues: staying in the classroom as an advanced practitioner or moving into school-wide leadership and specialized instructional roles, two common careers for masters in education. Both paths benefit from the structured knowledge and credentials a UHC M.Ed. provides, but they lead to different daily responsibilities and long-term earning potential.

Common Career Paths for M.Ed. Holders in Louisiana

UHC’s M.Ed. specializations, Educational & Teacher Leadership, Special Education, and Reading & Literacy, map directly onto roles in high demand across Louisiana schools. Many graduates remain in classroom teaching, stepping into lead teacher, department chair, or mentor positions where their advanced training immediately impacts curriculum design and student outcomes. Others transition into non-teaching careers for M.Ed. graduates, such as instructional coach, curriculum coordinator, reading specialist, or special education coordinator. With the leadership-focused preparation, some alumni move toward administrative licensure and apply for assistant principal or principal positions, where they shape school culture and policy.

In Louisiana, the education job market continues to value master’s-prepared educators, especially in shortage areas like special education and literacy intervention. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady demand for instructional coordinators and school administrators nationally, and state-specific data for Louisiana reflects similar trends, particularly in urban and rural districts seeking to improve student achievement.

The Master’s Pay Premium in Education

One of the most tangible returns on a UHC M.Ed. is the master’s degree pay differential built into nearly every Louisiana public school district salary schedule. While exact dollar amounts vary by district, moving from a bachelor’s to a master’s lane typically adds a recurring annual increase that compounds over time through step advancements. Over a full teaching career, this premium can amount to tens of thousands of dollars in additional earnings, a pattern reflected in masters in education salary data. For those stepping into administrative or specialized roles, the base salary itself often rises substantially beyond the classroom teacher scale.

In many districts, educators holding a master’s in special education or reading/literacy may also qualify for stipends or additional pay for hard-to-fill positions, further enhancing lifetime earnings. Contacting individual district HR departments or the Louisiana Department of Education can provide the most up-to-date salary schedules, while the University of Holy Cross career services office may offer alumni salary surveys or employment reports.

Where to Find Outcome Data for UHC Alumni

Prospective students can get a realistic picture of career trajectories by exploring public, verifiable sources. LinkedIn allows filtering by school and degree to view job titles, employers, and career progressions of UHC M.Ed. alumni. Additionally, the university’s website may feature graduate spotlights or career outcomes summaries. For broader context, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics offers median wages and ten-year growth projections for education, training, and library occupations, including breakdowns for elementary and secondary school teachers, special education teachers, and instructional coordinators.

Salary Insight: Median Earnings for UHC M.Ed. Grads

Accreditation and Licensure: Quality Assurance and Your Teaching Credential

For educators balancing career advancement with regulatory requirements, accreditation is the non-negotiable foundation that determines whether your degree will be recognized by employers and licensing boards. At University of Holy Cross, a dual layer of quality assurance means graduates leave with credentials that carry weight in Louisiana classrooms and beyond.

Regional and Programmatic Accreditation

University of Holy Cross holds regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).¹ This status confirms that the institution meets rigorous standards for academic quality, faculty qualifications, and fiscal stability. Regional accreditation is the most widely respected form of institutional recognition and is essential for credit transfer, federal financial aid eligibility, and acceptance by most school districts.

For its education programs, UHC has also earned programmatic accreditation through the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) at the initial-licensure level.² CAEP accreditation signals that the curriculum aligns with national teaching standards and that the program continuously evaluates candidate performance. When you enroll in an education degree at UHC, you are entering a program that is externally reviewed and designed to prepare you for state certification.

Initial Licensure vs. Endorsement Tracks

Not all M.Ed. paths are built the same way. Some specializations are structured for individuals who are not yet certified teachers and need a route to initial licensure. Other tracks are tailored to practicing educators who already hold a teaching certificate and want to add endorsements or move into leadership roles.

Within the University of Holy Cross M.Ed. program, you will find options that cover both needs. For example, the Educational Leadership concentration may serve certified teachers seeking a Teacher Leader endorsement, while Special Education or Reading and Literacy tracks can lead to add-on certifications in high-demand areas. The admissions team can help you confirm which track matches your current licensure status and career goals, but generally the program accommodates both newcomers and experienced professionals.

Louisiana Licensure Pathways and Praxis Exams

Completing an initial-licensure program at UHC qualifies you to apply for a Louisiana teaching certificate through the state Department of Education. Candidates must typically pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (or meet equivalent requirements), the appropriate Praxis Subject Assessment, and the Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching exam; specific Praxis exam requirements by state depend on certification area and grade level.

For endorsement-only pathways, such as adding a Reading Specialist or Special Education certification, additional Praxis exams may be required. Many candidates find that the M.Ed. coursework aligns directly with the content of these tests, reducing the need for extensive outside preparation. Louisiana also maintains alternative certification paths, and UHC’s initial-licensure tracks can serve as a structured way to meet those requirements.

Out-of-State Reciprocity

If you plan to teach outside Louisiana after graduation, you benefit from teacher license reciprocity through the state’s participation in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement. This means your Louisiana certificate may be recognized in many other states, though some jurisdictions might ask for additional testing or coursework. Always check with the educator licensing board in your target state early in your program to avoid surprises.

By choosing a SACSCOC- and CAEP-accredited M.Ed. at UHC, you invest in a credential that meets national benchmarks. That accreditation not only supports your licensure in Louisiana but also keeps the door open to classrooms across the country.

Faculty Expertise and Student Support at UHC

Who teaches the M.Ed. courses at University of Holy Cross, and what support do graduate students receive? The answer begins with a dedicated team of faculty who bring substantial academic and real-world experience to the virtual and physical classroom. UHC’s Graduate Education and Counseling Programs include 15 faculty members, with seven full-time and eight part-time instructors who specialize in areas like educational leadership, curriculum development, and special education.

Faculty Credentials and Leadership

The full-time faculty at UHC includes professionals with doctorates in curriculum and instruction, published researchers, and former school administrators. For example, Dr. Obie Cleveland Hill, an associate professor and coordinator of the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, earned his Ed.D. from the University of New Orleans and brings practical leadership insights to his courses. Dr. Christine Collins Hypolite, who coordinates certification-only programs, holds a Ph.D. from Louisiana State University and grounds her teaching in extensive K-12 experience. Many faculty members maintain active research agendas and hold state-level education licenses, ensuring that coursework stays connected to current classroom and policy realities. As specified in the Faculty Handbook, full-time faculty must hold at least six office hours per week, spread across at least two different days, underscoring the college’s commitment to accessibility and mentorship.¹

Student Support Tailored for Educators

M.Ed. students at UHC access a layered support system designed to help working educators succeed.¹ Academic advising helps you map out a degree plan that aligns with your career goals, while career-related support offers resume reviews and job search strategies for leadership and specialist roles. University-wide tutoring services are available for any course, and UHC’s writing center can assist with research papers, capstone projects, and lesson-plan development. The cohort model that structures many of UHC’s M.Ed. programs creates a built-in network of peers who often become long-term professional contacts. This collaborative environment is particularly valuable for educators who are balancing graduate study with full-time teaching.

Faith-Based Integration and Cohort Networking

Rooted in its Catholic mission, UHC weaves faith-based perspectives into education coursework. While the university serves students of all backgrounds, you may encounter assignments that explore ethics, social justice, and the spiritual dimensions of teaching, a distinctive feature that sets UHC apart from secular alternatives. This integration aligns with the university’s goal of preparing educators who are not just skilled practitioners but also reflective leaders, and it can be especially valuable for those aiming to become a Catholic school teacher. Combined with the close-knit cohort structure, the faith-based emphasis helps foster a supportive, purpose-driven learning environment that extends beyond graduation.

Frequently Asked Questions About UHC’s M.ed.

Prospective students often have questions about program details, costs, and licensure pathways. The answers below point you to reliable sources for the most up-to-date information, but always verify with official program offices and websites.

Other University of Holy Cross Schools

1. Arizona
2. Florida
3. Louisiana
4. Louisiana
5. Louisiana
6. Louisiana
7. Maryland
8. Michigan
9. New York
10. Pennsylvania
11. Pennsylvania
12. Texas
13. Washington

Related Articles