Jun 03, 2026  
2026-2027 Graduate Catalog 
    
2026-2027 Graduate Catalog

Education Major, MS (ELPS Department)


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  • Adult and Continuing Education Concentration: The Education major for the Adult and Continuing Education concentration is offered via Distance Program and is designed for professionals working in school settings, colleges and universities, and business and government as well as those preparing for work in these and related areas. All courses for this degree are offered online through Distance Education. The faculty members in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies are committed to the creation and study of environments that enhance learning potential and promote lifelong learning for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. The coursework only program requires 36 graduate credit hours of coursework and a comprehensive examination, with a grade of Pass.

    Students take 24 graduate credit hours of core courses and choose 12 additional graduate credit hours in Adult and Continuing Education. The degree can be completed in two years by taking two online courses per semester fall, spring and summer semesters.

  • Evaluation Methodology Concentration: Evaluation is the systematic study of an organization or program’s fidelity, merit, or worth using a recognized set of national standards. The Distance Education Evaluation Methodology concentration master’s program is designed to provide students with a broad and rigorous study of the field of evaluation. Students will learn quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods evaluation designs, effective communication skills, cutting edge reporting strategies, and hands-on application of evaluation strategies. The program prepares professionals who are seeking to enhance their skills and develop new competencies in evaluation methodology. Students in this 30-graduate credit hour program will complete core coursework in evaluation principles and practice, methodology, and engage in field-based evaluation experiences. Prior to graduation, students must pass a portfolio-based comprehensive examination. All courses are offered online through Distance Education.

Concentrations (Required) and Options Available


  • Adult and Continuing Education Concentration (Coursework Only With Comprehensive Exams)
  • Evaluation Methodology (Project Option)

Campus Code


Distance Education

Adult and Continuing Education Concentration


Adult and Continuing Education focuses on the advanced educational needs of professionals who work with adults in a host of settings. The concentration includes coursework in such areas as adult learning and development, program planning, reflective practice, professional issues in adult education, research, and teaching adults. Emphasis is on the development of reflective practitioners who actively participate in leadership and service to promote adult learning in a global community. This concentration may be used as a stepping stone for doctoral study in adult education, adult learning, or related areas.

Admissions Standards/Procedures


Rolling admissions is utilized. Students are admitted every semester. Applicants must submit an online graduate application to the Office of Graduate Admissions. They must also submit program specific materials: a resume, letter of introduction, statement of goals, a writing sample, and three rating forms. Each application is reviewed on its own merit and admission decisions are made on a holistic basis to discern the candidate’s promise for graduate education. Faculty also review application material for compatibility between applicant goals and program goals.

Credit Hours Required


36 graduate credit hours

Required Courses


Non-Course Requirements


A comprehensive examination with a grade of Pass.

Evaluation Methodology Concentration


Admissions Standards/Procedures


Admission is based on a holistic view of an applicant’s qualifications and previous educational experiences. GRE scores are optional. Prior graduate work will be examined on a case-by-case basis to determine if it can be used to satisfy some course requirements.

Credit Hours Required


30 graduate credit hours

Non-Course Requirements


The portfolio satisfies the requirements for a project non-thesis Master’s. Portfolios will be reviewed and scored by two ESM faculty members. Students must earn a grade of Satisfactory/Pass to earn the Master’s degree.

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