FAQ for EMU’s Graduate Teacher Education Program

Why pursue a certificate or master’s in education?

"Coming back to school and obtaining my master's degree was never in my plans when I considered my career goals. This changed when I began learning about community circles and other Restorative Justice techniques several years ago. Through EMU's RJE program...I have been encouraged to be a better teacher, colleague and community member." ~ current GTE student

GTE classes equip educators with professional knowledge that you can immediately use to support and empower students. Earning a graduate certificate or master's degree may additionally open up opportunities for specialized roles and an increase in pay for school employees.
How much is tuition?

Tuition is $499 a semester hour.
How long does it take to complete your degree?

All course work, research and practica for the master's degree and/or graduate certificate shall be completed within six calendar years of the first registration as an admitted graduate student. Classes are offered in various formats during fall and spring, while the summer sessions sometimes provide intensive week-long courses. A full-time student can complete the master’s degree in two years. Most teacher practitioners graduate in 2-4 years by taking 10-12 semester hours per year. Certificates can be completed part-time in 15 months.
How many courses a semester do I have to take?

Our program offers flexibility to work with fluctuating schedules, allowing students to determine the pace at which they complete the program, keeping in mind the six-year time limit for completion. To be eligible for financial aid, students need to have at least five semester hours within each semester.
Are the degrees offered fully online and/or in person?

Our degree programs are offered fully online, in person or in a hybrid format depending on the concentration you choose.
When do synchronous class sessions meet?

While some of our online classes meet completely asynchronously, many of our online classes have some synchronous sessions. These synchronous sessions utilize Zoom and meet at 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time to accommodate working professionals across all North American time zones.
Do the certificate courses count towards a master's if you choose?

Yes.
Can I enroll in a course even if I'm not seeking a full degree?

Yes, students can enroll as a non-degree student. Please complete the single course registration form.
How many courses are in the core?

The master's program has five core courses. Graduate certificates consist of five courses in the area of specialization, all of which can be applied to a master's degree.
Are the Graduate Teacher Education programs accredited?

The Virginia licensure programs for Reading Specialist and ESL are accredited through the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). EMU at Lancaster is a Pennsylvania Department of Education approved provider of graduate teacher education. The University is accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Can I transfer credits?

Candidates may request to transfer up to nine hours of coursework from other regionally accredited colleges or universities. A transfer of credit request form must be completed and requests for transfer credit approval may be directed to the program director and will be considered on a course by course basis as applicable to the particular concentration area. Additional information on transfer credits.
Is Financial Aid available?

Yes. GTE students may be eligible for unsubsidized federal education loans. Full-time or part-time GTE students may also consider an affordable monthly payment program that can be used in combination with a loan to reduce interest costs.
Can I begin classes in the fall or spring?

Students can begin classes in either the fall, spring, or summer semester.
I'm an international student. Can I complete the MA in Ed or Graduate Certificate?

Due to the part-time nature of our Graduate Teacher Education program, we are not currently able to sponsor international students for F-1 or J-1 visas. However, online programs are available to students in their home country. In addition, we welcome international students who possess other permission to live and study in the U.S.
How can I view my grades?

To view your grades, visit my.emu.edu in your web browser, and login using your Royals username and password. Click on the Academics tab, then the myStudent tab on the left. Using the View My Grades portlet, select the term you are interested in, then click the View Final Grade Report link.
How can I request an official transcript?

To request an official transcript(s) follow the registrar’s instructions, which are outlined on the registrar’s website.
What is the action research project?

Your program will end with an action research project designed in collaboration with an academic mentor. Action research projects (EDPC 611) take a variety of formats: curriculum restructuring projects, staff development projects, research for public policy change, research for publication, etc.
Is there a deadline to apply?

Graduate Teacher Education applications are accepted on a rolling basis. There is no set and firm deadline to apply as they are reviewed regularly throughout the year. It is also an option to enroll as a non-degree student in the meantime. Please complete the single course registration form.
How do I get more information and apply?

For more information on our programs, please visit www.emu.edu/gte or contact Stephanie Whitson, Director of Graduate Admissions, at 540-432-4027 or stephanie.whitson@emu.edu. For admissions information and to apply visit the GTE admissions page.