Master of Education

The Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction at Carson-Newman University is designed for educators seeking to deepen their expertise and expand their career opportunities beyond the traditional classroom. This flexible, fully online program blends foundational coursework with customizable electives, allowing educators to tailor their learning to personal and professional goals. Students gain advanced knowledge in leadership, instructional design, and inclusive teaching practices, preparing them for roles in curriculum development, instructional coaching, and educational leadership. With a Christian worldview integrated throughout the curriculum, graduates are equipped to lead with both competence and compassion.

This emphasis prepares licensed teachers to become certified Reading Specialists for PreK–12 settings. The program focuses on literacy development, diagnostic assessment, and intervention strategies to support struggling readers. Candidates must have two years of successful classroom teaching experience before being recommended for licensure. Graduates are equipped to lead school-wide literacy initiatives, mentor fellow educators, and serve as reading coaches or interventionists. The curriculum includes 12 core credits, 18 emphasis credits, and 6–9 research credits, totaling 36–39 credit hours.

Designed for licensed educators seeking an additional endorsement in Special Education, this emphasis equips teachers with the skills to support diverse learning needs across a range of student abilities. The program emphasizes inclusive practices, behavioral supports, and individualized instruction. Candidates must complete the appropriate Praxis II exams to obtain licensure. This program meets the TN state requirements for licensure as K-8 Interventionist, 6-12 Interventionist, and/or K-12 Comprehensive endorsements. With 12 core credits, 15–18 emphasis credits, and 6–9 research credits, the program totaling 33 -39 credit hours. Graduates are prepared for roles such as Special Education Teacher, Behavior Support Specialist, or Director of Special Education.

This emphasis prepares educators to teach English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) in K–12 and international contexts. The curriculum integrates applied linguistics, culturally responsive pedagogy, and language acquisition theory. Candidates explore the cognitive, cultural, and policy dimensions of multilingual education and must pass the Praxis II TESOL exam for endorsement. The program includes 15 core credits, 18 emphasis credits, and 3 non-thesis research credits, totaling 36 credit hours. Graduates are equipped to serve as ESL teachers, instructional supervisors, or advocates for multilingual learners.

Ideal for K-12 educators and higher education professionals passionate about athletic coaching, this emphasis provides advanced training in coaching theory, leadership, and performance development. The program is suited for licensed teachers adding the PE endorsement or professionals seeking to deepen their coaching expertise. With 12 core credits, 15 emphasis credits, and 9 research credits, the program totals 36 credit hours. Graduates are prepared for roles such as Athletic Coach, Sports Program Director, or Performance Consultant, with a foundation rooted in educational best practices and Christian values.

The Master of Education in Educational Leadership prepares licensed educators to take on administrative and leadership roles within K–12 schools. This fully online program is structured to accommodate working professionals and includes a common core of 18 credit hours, with additional coursework tailored to leadership competencies. Students explore topics such as school law, instructional supervision, strategic planning, and organizational leadership. The program emphasizes ethical decision-making and servant leadership, aligning with Carson-Newman’s Christian mission. Graduates are equipped to pursue roles such as principal, assistant principal, instructional coordinator, or district administrator, and are eligible for licensure upon meeting state requirements. The ILL-A is available to qualified K-12 licensed TN teachers.

This program is hybrid and is for initial teaching licensure in the state of Tennessee. Click here to explore this program more.

The Alternative Teaching Licensure track within the Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction is designed for individuals seeking initial teacher certification through a non-traditional pathway. This hybrid program is ideal for career changers or professionals who hold a bachelor’s degree and wish to transition into teaching. The curriculum includes 10 classes and 2 non-credit courses for TN teaching licensure. Students may complete their MEd by taking 2 additional courses for a total of 36 credit hours. Students gain foundational knowledge in pedagogy, classroom management, and instructional design while completing field experiences aligned with licensure requirements. Upon completion, graduates are eligible for licensure and are prepared to lead with excellence in Tennessee schools.