FAQ

Classes are hybrid meaning that at least four sessions are supposed to meet face-to-face. The remaining meetings may be face to face or virtual, depending on the instructor's judgment on how best to deliver instruction. Some classes, for example discussion-based methods courses, do require a lot of face-to-face time; and the schedule reflects that. Other courses may be able to be held virtually. 

The MSED program on Education and Social Change was developed as a direct response to a request made by the then-director of the Miami chapter to our dean that we develop such a program.  Much of the course work is designed to support TFA corps members who wish to make the transition from a temporary to a permanent teaching license in the State of Florida. 

We allow students to transfer six credits of graduate course work (from Delta College) that are based on their participation in their induction-summer program (part of your initial training with TFA). 

We schedule our courses in the evenings, after 5PM, to allow students the opportunity to get from work to the UM campus for our face-to-face meetings. Most students take 6 credits a semester. 

Yes, students can complete the program at their own pace.   

Several of the courses have required fieldwork. Many students who are practicing teachers are able to complete the fieldwork assignments in their own classroom/school; others receive classroom placements from the Teacher Preparation Office (TPO) within the Department of Teaching and Learning. (For those students, the TPO aims to place students within 5-6 miles of their home). Fieldwork related to courses is not paid; however, students who are completing the initial certification track (which includes student teaching) may be hired into a position and complete their student teaching in a paid position. 

Our program bridges research and practice, preparing teachers to enact best practices in ways that are meaningful, relevant, and effective for their learners. Students learn from faculty who are actively engaged in research as well as teacher leaders and experts who have dedicated their lives to the education field. 

Many students who graduate from the program are practicing teachers expanding their expertise or aspiring teachers earning their state teaching credentials. Some graduates have pursued careers in the nonprofit education sector, and others have used their master's degree as a springboard to pursuing a doctoral degree. 

No.