Master of Education

The Master of Education (MEd or M.Ed. or Ed.M.; Latin Magister Educationis or Educationis Magister) is a master's degree awarded by universities in many countries. This degree in education often includes the following majors: curriculum and instruction, counseling, school psychology, and administration. It is often conferred for educators advancing in their field. Similar degrees (providing qualifications for similar careers) include the Master of Arts in Education (MAEd or M.A.Ed. or M.A.E.) and the Master of Science in Education (MScEd or M.Sc.Ed. or M.S.E.). Typical programs branch into one of several categories: This is typically the area to advance knowledge of, and professional practice in, teaching and learning. Coursework in this field generally focuses on teaching, public service, and scholarship. Often at the master's level, curriculum and instruction majors (or curriculum and teaching at some schools) participate in educational research. This major is designed often for preparation to enter educational careers in schools, including classroom teaching. This is typically the area where students study to become mental health professionals and work toward state licensure in mental health counseling. Typically state licensure requires 60 credit hours on a semester system. Candidates in school counseling typically study psychology, sociology, or social work as undergraduates. The master's degree, in addition to advanced courses of study, certifies an individual for employment as a school counselor. Harvard University is notable for having an interdisciplinary neuroscience master's degree given as an M.Ed. The degree may have little instruction in teaching, with education referring to the learning process in humans versus the profession or institution of education. This is typically the area where teachers are increasing their knowledge in their specific field or branching to another area within teaching. Examples are subject related, such as mathematics, social studies, or science, or tiers of school, such as elementary or high school.