The M.Ed. in Early Elementary Education program involves certified teachers in expanding their knowledge, skills, and dispositions. The program stresses the importance of teachers demonstrating current content and pedagogical knowledge; enhancing their commitment and capacity to teach diverse learners; studying and learning from their practice; and developing as a professional leader.

The M.Ed. in Early Elementary Education aims at helping practicing teachers learn more about how to help all students be successful through research-based, best instructional practices and how to enhance their professional skills as reflective teacher leaders.

Admission Requirements

Prospective students must submit an on-line application for admission to the University of Louisville Graduate School.

As part of the application process, students are required to submit all official transcripts. The minimum requirement for admission is the baccalaureate degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution.

Each applicant is required to submit at least two letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to the applicant’s academic and/or professional capabilities and potential are required.

Each applicant is required to submit official scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). To be considered for unconditional admission, students are required to have a minimum combined score of 800.

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required of all foreign students from countries in which English is not the native language. Students holding a baccalaureate or advanced degree from an accredited institution in the United States are exempt from this requirement.

Applicants must provide a copy of a Kentucky teaching certificate.

For unconditional admission, students are required to have a 2.75 cumulative grade point average, or 2.75 grade point average for the senior college years.

Opportunities for Graduates

Those completing the M.Ed. in Early Elementary Education are eligible for Kentucky’s Rank II, required of all teachers within 10 years of initial certification. Teachers with an M.Ed. degree and three years of teaching experience have met the state’s eligibility requirements for supervising student teachers, a leadership opportunity some teachers might find appealing. Also, depending on course selection, those completing the program may have fulfilled the requirements for an endorsement of their certificate, thus further expanding their career opportunities.

Certification

The M.Ed. in Early Elementary Education program does not lead to certification, since those enrolled already hold P-5 certification. However, students may choose to incorporate coursework that will add an endorsement to their certification in English as a Second Language.