Rockhurst University | Learning, Leadership and Service in the Jesuit Tradition

Master of Education Programs

Follow your calling to teach.
Whether you want to start a new teaching career or advance in your current position, Rockhurst University has the program of study that will work for you.
Rockhurst gives you the opportunity to earn elementary, middle, or secondary teacher certification in a graduate-level degree program. In fact, we are the only university in the Kansas City area where you can pursue certification in elementary education while you earn your master’s degree.
We prepare teachers to have a solid background in their chosen fields of study, to be knowledgeable and competent in the craft of teaching, and to bring well-informed perspectives to bear on educational policies and practices.  We develop educational leaders—teachers who are actively engaged in educational matters as reflective practitioners.  The Master of Education (M.Ed.) program calls upon students to analyze alternatives in curriculum, teaching methodologies and assessment strategies, and to consider the implications of such alternatives for a multicultural, democratic society. Through rigorous coursework and varied field experiences, students acquire a deep understanding of, and special sensitivity to, the challenges and rewards of teaching in the K-12 schools.

Accelerated Program
Depending on the credit hours you need and how many hours you take each semester, you may complete the middle or secondary education M.Ed. program within one year. The elementary program may be completed in 18 months. 

Elementary Certification
Our Master of Education in Elementary Certification is designed for those students interested in teaching at the 1-6 grade level. We will prepare you to be well equipped to excel in the opportunities and challenges of these young learners. Course completion form.

Middle School Certification
Our Master of Education in Middle School Certification is designed for those students interested in teaching at the 5-9 grade level. We will prepare you to be well equipped to excel in the opportunities and challenges of these learners.  You may choose from the following certifications:

• language arts
• mathematics
• science
• social science

Secondary Certification
Our Master of Education in Secondary Certification is designed for those students interested in teaching at the 9-12 grade levels.  You may choose from the following certifications:

• biology
• business
• chemistry
• English
• French (K-12)
• mathematics
• physics
• social science
• Spanish (K-12)

Special Education certification in grades K-12
To address the growing need to offer services for children with learning disabilities, the department offers a master of education degree with an initial certification in grades K-12 for special education.  Read more.

Master of Education in Educational Studies

Our Master of Education in Educational Studies is designed for those students who either already have a teaching certificate or do not need a certificate. This program is ideal for teachers looking to advance in their current position, educators in community organizations, homeschooling parents and others. Course completion form.

Classes are held in the evening, and you may enroll any semester. The program is tailored to each student's needs and interests. The program culminates with a service learning capstone, designed by the student. Read more details about the program in Educational Studies Information.