Salisbury University

What you'll study

This programme focuses on advanced, subject‑specific methods and on the design and delivery of professional development for practising educators. Core study typically covers curriculum design and instructional planning for particular grade bands and content areas, assessment and data‑informed instruction, contemporary approaches to pedagogy (including differentiation and inclusive practice), and the theory and practice of professional learning communities.

• Specific levels and methods: advanced pedagogy for elementary, middle or secondary levels and for particular content areas (for example literacy, STEM, social studies, modern languages), including unit and lesson planning tailored to age and subject.
• Instructional assessment and data use: formative and summative assessment strategies, designing valid assessments, analysing student data to guide instruction.
• Professional development design and facilitation: adult learning theory, needs analysis, building effective workshops and ongoing coaching models, mentoring and peer observation.
• Technology and learning environments: integrating educational technology to support teaching, assessment and collaborative professional learning.
• Equity and inclusive practice: culturally responsive pedagogy, meeting diverse learners’ needs, special educational needs considerations within subject teaching.
• Research and inquiry: action research or practicum capstone where candidates design, implement and evaluate a classroom or school‑based improvement project.

Programme structure generally comprises a mix of advanced taught modules and a practicum or capstone research project tailored to the candidate’s subject and career goals. Delivery may be offered through evening or hybrid formats to accommodate working teachers.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and to be certified or licence‑eligible teachers, or to demonstrate substantial professional experience in educational settings. Typical requirements include:

• A completed undergraduate degree transcript showing satisfactory academic achievement.
• Current teaching certification or evidence of relevant professional experience in schools (where certification is not yet held).
• Professional references (for example from a school principal or supervisor).
• A personal statement outlining professional goals, subject area(s) of focus and reasons for pursuing the programme.
• Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview or provide a sample of professional practice or a brief lesson plan.

Specific admissions criteria and any required minimum GPA, documentation or prerequisite coursework are provided by Salisbury University’s admissions office; international applicants should check additional requirements for transcripts and English language proficiency.

Career prospects

Graduates use this degree to deepen classroom practice, take on subject leadership roles and to design and lead professional learning within schools and districts. Common career paths include:

• Lead teacher or curriculum coordinator for a particular subject area or grade band.
• Instructional coach, mentor or professional development facilitator working with teams of teachers.
• Department head or content specialist in schools and academies.
• Positions in school district offices such as curriculum and instruction, assessment, or professional learning departments.
• Roles in teacher education and training organisations, educational NGOs or private learning providers developing teacher training materials.

The programme’s emphasis on applied research and a capstone practicum also supports those who wish to continue to doctoral study or take on evidence‑informed leadership roles within education.

Why study at Salisbury University

Salisbury University combines a focused College of Education with close partnerships across regional schools, providing candidates with access to local practicum placements and collaborative professional learning opportunities. The department’s faculty bring classroom and district‑level experience in curriculum, assessment and adult learning, supporting a practice‑oriented programme that connects research to day‑to‑day teaching.

• Small cohort sizes and faculty mentoring that support personalised programme planning and career goals.
• Flexible delivery options designed for working teachers, including evening and hybrid courses.
• Opportunities to undertake school‑based action research and to build a professional portfolio that demonstrates impact on learner outcomes.

Prospective students should consult Salisbury University’s programme pages for the most current information on course requirements and how the programme can be tailored to specific subject areas and career aims.