Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Secondary Education

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Boston College

Program Overview

The Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Secondary Education at Boston College prepares students to become effective secondary school educators through advanced subject-specific teaching methods, educational theory, classroom research, and practical teaching experience. The 37-credit program offers preparation for Massachusetts initial teacher licensure in Biology, Chemistry, English, History, Mathematics, or Physics, covering STEM education for grades 8–12 and Humanities for grades 5–12.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 – Foundational Studies: Students develop their understanding of adolescent development, inclusive education, and teaching practices through Applied Adolescent Development (APSY7419), Social Contexts of Education (EDUC7435), and Educating Learners with Disabilities (EDUC7438). They also study Literacy and Assessment in Secondary School (EDUC7447) and subject-specific teaching methods.

Year 2 – Professional Practice and Research: Students strengthen classroom teaching skills through Graduate Pre-practicum (EDUC7429) and Graduate Inquiry Seminar I (EDUC7431), followed by Graduate Full Practicum (EDUC7420) and Graduate Inquiry Seminar II (EDUC7432). They complete content-area electives and a collaborative classroom research project presented through the comprehensive examination.

The 37-credit program can be completed full-time in one academic year plus two summer sessions. Part-time students typically take 2–3 years.

Focus Areas

Secondary education, STEM education, humanities education, adolescent development, curriculum and instruction, literacy and assessment, inclusive education, classroom research, culturally responsive teaching, educational technology.

Learning Outcomes

Develop effective subject-specific teaching methods, design curriculum and assessments, support diverse learners, analyse student performance, create inclusive classrooms, apply educational research, strengthen classroom management, collaborate with families and communities, promote social justice in education.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program is an approved teacher preparation program by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Successful completion provides Boston College endorsement toward initial Massachusetts teaching licensure in the selected subject area.

Reputation (Employability)

Boston College's Lynch School of Education and Human Development is ranked No. 17 nationally for Secondary Teacher Education by U.S. News & World Report. The school provides supervised teaching placements across urban and suburban schools, with graduates entering teaching and educational leadership positions.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Boston College, the Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Secondary Education program is designed to provide students with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are essential for effective teaching. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage in hands-on experiences that prepare them for real-world classroom environments. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, students can immerse themselves in innovative teaching practices and collaborate with peers and faculty.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the MEd Secondary Education program:

- Field Experiences: Students participate in extensive field placements in local schools, allowing them to apply their learning in real classroom settings and gain valuable teaching experience.

- Internships: The program includes opportunities for internships that provide practical teaching experience and professional networking within the education community.

- Collaborative Projects: Students engage in group projects that foster teamwork and collaborative problem-solving, essential skills for any educator.

- Digital Tools: The program incorporates various educational technologies, including learning management systems and digital assessment tools, to enhance teaching and learning.

- Research Facilities: Access to dedicated research laboratories and resources enables students to explore educational theories and practices in depth.

- Libraries and Resources: The Boston College libraries offer extensive collections and resources tailored to education research, providing students with the materials they need for their studies.

- Educational Institutes: Students can benefit from partnerships with various educational institutes that focus on innovative teaching methods and educational research.

- Workshops and Seminars: Regular workshops and seminars led by experienced educators and researchers provide insights into current trends and best practices in education.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing an Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Secondary Education at Boston College opens the door to a variety of rewarding career paths in the education sector. Graduates often find themselves in roles such as secondary school teachers, educational administrators, curriculum developers, and instructional coordinators. The program not only equips you with essential teaching skills but also prepares you for leadership positions in education.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: Boston College offers robust career services, including personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events with alumni and industry professionals. The Lynch School of Education and Human Development also provides access to job fairs specifically tailored for education graduates.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, over 90% of graduates from the Lynch School find employment within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for secondary education teachers in Massachusetts is around $55,000, with potential for growth as you gain experience and take on leadership roles.

- University–Industry Partnerships: Boston College has established partnerships with local school districts and educational organizations, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world experience. These connections can significantly enhance your job prospects upon graduation.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MEd program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), ensuring that your degree meets high standards of quality and is recognized nationally, which can be a significant advantage in your career.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates of the MEd in Secondary Education program report high levels of satisfaction with their education and career readiness, with many moving into leadership roles within just a few years of graduation.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Secondary Education, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Doctorate in Education (EdD) or a PhD in Education. These advanced degrees can lead to opportunities in higher education, research, or specialized roles in educational policy and administration. Additionally, you might consider obtaining certifications in specialized areas such as special education or educational leadership, which can further enhance your career prospects and expertise in the field.