APHE Master’s of Education Program - Program Structure

Overview | Admissions Information | Curriculum | Program Structure

Coursework in the Master of Education in Adult, Professional and Higher Education degree program consists of student-centered approaches to teaching and learning that include critical reflection, research projects, collaborative learning opportunities and discussions that provide for in-depth and challenging learning experiences which can be applied to one's immediate and future work and life context.

In consultation with their advisor, students choose a specific focus area in either adult, professional and higher education, or instructional design and technology. Courses are offered in an online (web) format for students who have additional commitments such as child and family care and/or inflexible work schedules. The online (web) format follows the same rigorous curricula as brick-and-mortar options, leading to similar advancement opportunities for our graduates. The program also offers face-to-face format for those students who have the flexibility and may prefer to attend in person. 

The APHE Master's program offers the following tracks:

Adult, Professional and Higher Education Track

Adult education spans a variety of areas. Individuals may choose to work with learners who are developing basic skills in literacy or high school equivalency programs. Adult educators design and implement programs in community-based organizations such as non-profits, museums, or community recreation centers. Adult educators work in correctional facilities to help individuals develop life and employment skills. Despite the disparate nature of these positions, they have a core skill set. Educators in these areas have a strong understanding of adult learning and development theories, they understand how to utilize a variety of instructional methods that are appropriate for their content and population, and they understand how to effectively design and evaluate programs.

Students who choose the adult learning and development specialization may pursue a career as a(n):

1. GED/HS Equivalency instructor,

2. Corrections educator,

3. Adult literacy teacher,

4. Program coordinator,

5. Community school administrator,

6. Educational policy maker,

7. Instructional designer, or

8. Employee of a non-profit agency (cultural institution, senior citizen center, zoo).

Instructional Design and Technology Track

The certificate in Instructional Design and Technology focuses on professionals who are interested in designing and developing educational programs that are mediated by technology.  This includes educators who are engaged in online instruction in higher education, training, and development, or community-based education geared toward adult learners.  Emphasis will be on adult learning theories, online learning, instructional design, and program evaluation.

Students who choose the instructional design and technology specialization may pursue a career as a(n):

1. Instructional designer,

2. Learning consultant,

3. Content developer,

4. Learning content manager,

5. Learning and development specialist,

6. Digital learning coordinator,

7. Technology specialist,

8. eLearning developer,

9. Corporate training developer.