Lead in the Classroom with a Master's in Education from WSSU

For more than 130 years, Winston-Salem State University has prepared educators who shape learning in North Carolina classrooms. As a historically Black university, WSSU brings a distinctive commitment to equity and community-engaged teaching to its graduate programs.

The College of Education offers multiple Master of Education paths, including an online Curriculum & Instruction concentration that fits working teachers' schedules. Across formats, the curriculum targets practical classroom leadership and pedagogical depth.

North Carolina's licensure system increasingly rewards advanced degrees with salary differentials and career mobility, making a targeted master's a strategic credential.

Winston-Salem State University’s College of Education at a Glance

What does Winston-Salem State University’s College of Education offer aspiring teachers and school leaders? Founded in 1892, WSSU has spent more than a century shaping educators ready to lead in diverse classrooms. As a historically Black university, the College of Education integrates a legacy of equity and community uplift into every program, preparing you not just for a job but for a calling.

A Legacy of Excellence Since 1892

From its earliest days as a normal school to its current role as a comprehensive university, WSSU has maintained a singular focus: developing educators who make a difference. Ranked as the #1 HBCU in North Carolina and recognized for its social mobility impact, the institution proves that academic quality and equitable access go hand in hand. You'll join a network of alumni who are teachers, principals, curriculum specialists, and education advocates across North Carolina and beyond.

Graduate Programs That Advance Your Career

WSSU offers graduate degrees aligned with your career stage. The Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (M.Ed.) deepens your expertise in instructional design and student assessment. For those seeking initial teaching licensure, the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) provides a pathway with multiple concentration options, including Birth-Kindergarten Education. Additional programs, such as educational leadership and special education, let you tailor your studies to your career goals.

An Education Rooted in Practice and Cultural Competence

What sets WSSU apart is its commitment to blending theory with real-world application. Coursework is grounded in culturally responsive pedagogy, so you'll learn to effectively engage students from all backgrounds. Field experiences and clinical practice are woven into the curriculum, ensuring you graduate classroom-ready. With eligibility for licensure in all 50 states and accreditation that meets national standards, your degree will travel with you wherever your career takes you.

Spotlight: Inside the Curriculum & Instruction Master's Program

Choosing between a curriculum and instruction master's program and an initial licensure MAT often comes down to where you are in your teaching career. If you are a practicing educator looking to deepen your expertise in designing, implementing, and assessing instructional materials, without pursuing a new teaching license, then the Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction might be your best fit. This program is designed for teachers who want to stay in the classroom or move into roles like curriculum specialist, instructional coach, or department lead, and it balances theory with immediate classroom application.

Program Structure and Duration

Winston-Salem State University's M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction is structured to accommodate working professionals. The program typically spans about 24 months, though part-time and full-time pacing can often be adjusted to fit your schedule. Courses are delivered online, so you can continue teaching while studying. The online format uses asynchronous discussions, video-based lectures, and collaborative projects to mirror the collaborative nature of curriculum development itself.

While specific course titles and credit-hour totals vary by catalog year, the curriculum generally covers advanced pedagogy, assessment design, culturally responsive teaching, and educational technology integration. Because the program emphasizes practical leadership, you will not only study research but also apply it to real-classroom challenges. For the most up-to-date course listings, a quick search for "Curriculum and Instruction Master's" on Winston-Salem State University's official website will connect you to the graduate catalog.

Capstone Experience: Portfolio

Rather than a traditional thesis, the M.Ed. culminates in a comprehensive portfolio. This capstone requirement pushes you to compile and reflect on artifacts from your coursework and teaching practice, lesson plans, unit designs, assessment data, and professional development materials, demonstrating growth across the program's standards. The portfolio is both a demonstration of competence and a concrete resource you can carry into future roles or use for National Board Certification preparation.

An internship is not a required component of the M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction, which distinguishes it from the alternate Master of Arts in Teaching pathway. That MAT track is built for career changers seeking initial licensure, includes a full clinical internship, and offers a Birth-Kindergarten/Early Childhood concentration.¹ If you need a teaching license along with your master's, you can explore the MAT program separately.

Choosing a Concentration

WSSU's M.Ed. may allow for area-specific focus through electives or embedded credentials. While officially published concentrations can shift, common areas of emphasis include instructional technology, literacy education, and special education, but these should be verified directly. A call or email to the Department of Education is the best way to learn which focus areas are currently offered and how they align with North Carolina's advanced teaching standards.

How to Get the Most Current Details

Because graduate curricula are updated periodically, always rely on the university's official graduate catalog and direct communication with faculty. Here are three practical steps to ensure you have the correct, year-specific information:

• Search the campus website: Use the search function on Winston-Salem State University's homepage for 'Curriculum and Instruction Master's' to find the program page, which typically includes application deadlines, recent course rotation schedules, and faculty contact information.
• Contact the department: Reach out to the graduate coordinator via phone or email. Ask about part-time versus full-time course loads, any capstone alternatives, and whether any concentrations come with added field experiences or internship opportunities.
• Review professional associations: Organizations like ASCD and AACTE publish resources on what effective curriculum leaders should know. These can help you compare WSSU's curriculum against national standards and give you a head start on professional networking before you even enroll.

What You Need to Apply: Admission Requirements for Graduate Education Programs

Here’s what you’ll need to submit for the M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction and other graduate education programs at Winston-Salem State University.

• Minimum Undergraduate GPA

  A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.75 is required.
• Official Transcripts

  Submit official transcripts from every college or university you have attended.
• Application Fee

  A nonrefundable $50 application fee is due when you submit your application.
• Letters of Recommendation

  Letters of recommendation are required; the specific number may vary by program, so check with the College of Education.
• Personal Statement

  A personal statement or essay outlining your goals, teaching philosophy, and reasons for pursuing the degree is required.
• Application Deadlines

  The general fall semester application deadline is April 15. Spring semester deadlines vary; check the graduate admissions calendar for exact dates.
• GRE Scores

  The M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction does not explicitly require GRE scores; some programs may offer waivers or not require them. Confirm current policy with the program coordinator.
• International Applicants

  International students must submit TOEFL scores (minimum 550 paper-based) or IELTS (minimum 6.5). Fall application deadline is April 15, and spring deadline is September 15. Additional documentation, such as a credential evaluation, may be required.
• Online vs. On-Campus

  The application requirements and process are the same whether you choose online, on-campus, or hybrid delivery.
• Teaching License or Prerequisites

  Some programs may require a current teaching license or specific prerequisite coursework. Review your intended program’s requirements carefully.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid: Investing in Your Future

How much does Winston-Salem State University's M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction cost, and what financial aid options can make it affordable?

Graduate Tuition Rates: In-State vs. Out-of-State

For the 2025-2026 academic year, the per-credit tuition rate for the M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction is $215 for North Carolina residents. Out-of-state students pay a per-credit rate of $800. Importantly, online students pay the same rate as on-campus students, as confirmed by the WSSU 2025-2026 Graduate Tuition and Fee Schedule. Most graduate courses are three credit hours, so a typical full-time load of nine credits per semester would cost an in-state student $1,935 in tuition and an out-of-state student $7,200 per semester.

Mandatory Fees and Total Program Cost

Beyond tuition, all graduate students pay mandatory fees that cover student services, technology, and campus facilities. For 2025-2026, annual graduate fees are approximately $3,334, though some published schedules show an alternative rate of $2,875. When combined with tuition, the total estimated annual cost for an in-state student is $6,597, and for an out-of-state student it is $17,132. Looking ahead to 2026-2027, early estimates suggest a slight decrease to $6,039 in-state and $16,544 out-of-state. Since most M.Ed. programs require 30-36 credit hours, the total degree cost can be projected by multiplying per-credit rates by credits needed, plus fees for each year of study.

Financial Aid Options

WSSU’s College of Education offers several avenues to reduce out-of-pocket costs:

• Graduate assistantships: Program-specific assistantships are available. These positions typically provide a tuition scholarship and a stipend in exchange for teaching, research, or administrative duties. Interested students should inquire directly with the program coordinator.
• Federal loans: Graduate students are eligible for Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans (up to $20,500 per year) and Graduate PLUS Loans, which can cover the full cost of attendance minus any other aid.²
• Scholarships: While no automatic scholarships are tied to the M.Ed. program, the university and College of Education occasionally offer merit- or need-based awards. Students are encouraged to contact the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid.
• TEACH Grant: Educators planning to teach in a high-need field at a low-income school may qualify for the federal TEACH Grant, which provides up to $4,000 per year. This grant requires a service obligation and is not automatically awarded.

Special Discounts and Online Learners

WSSU does not advertise a specific tuition discount for currently employed teachers or for online learners. The online rate is the same as the on-campus rate, which keeps costs predictable regardless of delivery mode. While some institutions offer reduced tuition for out-of-state online students, WSSU maintains a flat per-credit charge. The lack of a teacher discount is offset by the relatively low in-state tuition and the availability of federal aid and assistantships. Many students also benefit from employer tuition reimbursement programs, which can significantly reduce the final bill. After factoring in assistantships, federal loans, and external scholarships, the net price a student pays is often well below the published sticker price.

Graduate Earnings Snapshot: Curriculum & Instruction

Program-specific earnings for Curriculum & Instruction graduates are not yet published.

Online, On-Campus, or Hybrid: Choosing Your Learning Format

Winston-Salem State University’s Master of Arts in Teaching with a concentration in Birth-Kindergarten Education is a fully on-campus program. This format suits the program’s design for career changers and its emphasis on hands-on, interactive teacher preparation. The curriculum includes five concentration options, all leading to licensure eligibility in all 50 states and recognized by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) and the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC).

What the On-Campus Experience Looks Like

Attending classes on campus means you’ll follow a set schedule of in-person sessions on WSSU’s Winston-Salem campus. You’ll interact directly with faculty and peers, engage in face-to-face discussions, and access on-site resources like teacher education labs and libraries. This structure can benefit students who learn best through real-time collaboration and immediate feedback.

Is an On-Campus Program Right for You?

Your decision should consider your work schedule, learning style, and location. If you’re a working professional with a rigid daytime job, commuting for evening or weekend courses might be feasible, but you’ll need to confirm scheduling options with the program. On-campus learning favors those who thrive in a structured environment and want the full campus experience. However, if you live far from Winston-Salem or need the flexibility to study asynchronously around a full-time teaching role, an on-campus program will present logistical challenges; our guide on how to balance teaching and a master's degree can help.

Considering Online or Hybrid Alternatives

While the Master of Arts in Teaching is currently only on campus, many educators pursue advanced degrees through online or hybrid programs to balance work and study. If flexibility is a top priority, you might explore whether WSSU’s College of Education offers other graduate programs in online or hybrid formats. Check WSSU’s website or contact admissions for the latest on delivery modes for all education degrees.

From Degree to Classroom: Licensure and Certification Pathways

The landscape of educator licensure continues to shift toward advanced credentials and demonstrated expertise, making a master's degree more valuable than ever for career advancement. Winston-Salem State University's M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction is designed as a professional development pathway that deepens your instructional knowledge and can support your pursuit of advanced licensure or add-on endorsements in North Carolina.

How the M.Ed. Aligns with North Carolina Licensure Advancement

The M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction is a non-licensure, professional development degree.² It is built to help educators meet the competencies for moving from an initial A-level license to an advanced M-level license. In North Carolina, that step typically requires completing a master's degree from an NCDPI-approved program, such as an M.Ed. program in North Carolina, and having three years of successful teaching experience. WSSU's program, which requires a bachelor's degree and a minimum GPA of 2.75-3.0 for admission, provides the graduate-level coursework needed to apply for the advanced license. Additionally, the degree can prepare you for add-on endorsements that expand your role.

Endorsements and Certifications Worth Pursuing

North Carolina offers a Curriculum Specialist endorsement that qualifies you to lead curriculum development and instructional improvement. Earning the M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction provides the foundational coursework, but you will also need to pass the Praxis II Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment test (5017) and demonstrate relevant teaching experience. An instructional coach endorsement may also be available through NCDPI's add-on process, though specific requirements can vary. Since licensure rules evolve, it is essential to consult WSSU's licensure office for current exam and experience criteria.

Reciprocity: Teaching Across State Lines

WSSU's educator preparation programs are recognized under the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which means graduates from the university's initial licensure (MAT) programs are eligible for licensure in all 50 states, D.C., Guam, Ontario, and DoD schools.³ If you complete the M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction and then secure an advanced license in North Carolina, you may also benefit from streamlined teacher license reciprocity when applying for credentials elsewhere. Most states honor an advanced NC license, though you might need to meet additional requirements such as state-specific exams or coursework.

Getting Guidance Every Step of the Way

WSSU's College of Education provides dedicated licensure advising to help you navigate the application pathway, from confirming your initial license status to scheduling required exams. The university often hosts test-preparation workshops and maintains up-to-date information on NCDPI changes. This support ensures you have the resources to turn your master's degree into a tangible career milestone, whether you aim to become a curriculum specialist, instructional coach, or pursue an advanced teaching license.

Accreditation: What It Means for Your WSSU Degree

When evaluating graduate education programs, you'll find two distinct levels of quality assurance: institutional accreditation and program-specific accreditation. While institutional accreditation confirms a university meets broad academic standards, programmatic accreditation dives deeper, validating that an education school specifically prepares graduates for classroom success. Winston-Salem State University holds both, giving you confidence in your degree's value.

Institutional Accreditation: SACSCOC

Winston-Salem State University has been institutionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) since 1947. The university completed its most recent reaffirmation in 2021, and the next full review cycle is scheduled for 2030.¹ WSSU also submitted an interim report in March 2026, a standard milestone that demonstrates ongoing compliance. This bedrock accreditation means all WSSU degrees meet rigorous financial, governance, and academic benchmarks.

Programmatic Accreditation: CAEP

For education students, the key credential is the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). WSSU's education programs are CAEP-accredited at the Initial Preparation Level, following a comprehensive review in Fall 2022. The accreditation is valid through Fall 2029, with no conditions or areas for improvement cited². This follows a strong 2015 review under legacy accreditor NCATE, which also resulted in re-accreditation with no deficiencies.

Why Accreditation Matters for Your Career

CAEP accreditation is the national gold standard for educator preparation. It signals to school districts and state licensing boards that your training aligns with evidence-based practices. For you, that translates into two practical advantages. First, many states streamline teacher certification for graduates of CAEP-accredited programs, easing licensure portability if you relocate. Second, hiring committees often recognize CAEP as a marker of rigorous preparation, giving your application a competitive edge. When you earn your M.Ed. degree from WSSU, you're not just completing a program, you're earning a credential backed by a century of institutional quality and the highest program-specific standards in the field.

Where a WSSU Education Degree Can Take You: Career Outlook and Salaries

Many WSSU education graduates go on to become instructional coordinators, shaping curriculum and teaching standards. National projections show steady demand, with North Carolina offering a lower cost of living that stretches earning power.

Frequently Asked Questions About WSSU's Education Programs

Prospective students often have questions about deadlines, delivery formats, costs, and career outcomes. Below you'll find straightforward answers to some of the most common inquiries about WSSU's education graduate programs.

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