Widener University

What you'll study

The programme focuses on adult learning, instructional design, and school‑based professional development tailored to specific grade levels and subject methods. Core study areas include curriculum and assessment alignment, differentiated instruction, classroom observation and feedback, coaching and mentoring, and the design and evaluation of professional learning programmes.

Typical modules and topics

• Foundations of Teacher Professional Development — theories of adult learning, models of sustained professional learning, and change management in schools.
• Curriculum Design and Assessment — aligning standards, curricular mapping, formative and summative assessment practices, and data‑informed instructional decisions.
• Instructional Coaching and Mentoring — coaching cycles, observation techniques, feedback strategies and supporting early‑career teachers.
• Specific Levels and Methods — pedagogical methods and curriculum considerations for particular grade bands (elementary, middle, secondary) and subject areas (literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, special education).
• Educational Technology for Professional Learning — using digital tools to design, deliver and evaluate blended and online professional learning experiences.
• Action Research and Evaluation — conducting practitioner research, designing programme evaluations and measuring impact on teacher practice and student outcomes.
• Leadership and Policy in Professional Learning — district and school governance, resource allocation, and strategies for scaling effective professional development.
• Practicum or Capstone Project — sustained application of learning in school contexts through a practicum, portfolio or a research‑based capstone project focused on improving practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree. Current state teacher certification or prior teaching experience is typically preferred, particularly for routes emphasising classroom methods. Typical supporting documents include academic transcripts, a CV or résumé, a personal statement outlining professional goals and experience in education, and at least one professional reference, often from a school leader or supervisor.

Some applicants without certification but with relevant educational experience may be considered for specific pathways; international applicants should supply equivalent documentation and meet any necessary English language requirements. Selection may involve an interview or portfolio review for candidates proposing practicum placements.

Career prospects

Graduates commonly move into roles that support teacher growth and school improvement. Typical career pathways include instructional coach, professional development coordinator, curriculum specialist, mentor for early‑career teachers, department or grade‑level leader, and district‑level positions overseeing teacher learning. Graduates also pursue leadership roles such as assistant principal or director of curriculum, or continue into doctoral study and roles in higher education, teacher education and consultancy.

Why study at Widener University

Widener offers a practitioner‑oriented approach with faculty who have experience in K–12 leadership, curriculum development and teacher education. The university maintains partnerships with regional school districts, enabling applied practicum experiences and local placement opportunities. Small classes and cohort models support collaborative learning and personalised feedback. The programme integrates contemporary research with practical tools for designing and evaluating professional learning and is delivered with flexible formats to accommodate working educators.