Marymount University

What you'll study

This programme combines advanced study of pedagogy with applied work in curriculum design, assessment and adult learning. Core themes include research-informed instruction, differentiated and inclusive practices, classroom assessment for learning, and the design and evaluation of professional learning for colleagues. Students choose specific level- and method-focused strands that align with primary, middle, secondary or content-area teaching, so coursework can include subject-methods seminars (for example in literacy, mathematics, science or social studies), age-specific curriculum development, and strategies for diverse learners.

• Foundations of Teacher Leadership and Professional Development – theories of adult learning, coaching and facilitation skills for PD.
• Curriculum Design and Assessment – backwards design, standards alignment, formative and summative assessment practices.
• Specific Levels and Methods Seminars – targeted methods courses for the candidate’s chosen level or subject area (primary literacy, secondary mathematics methods, etc.).
• Differentiation and Inclusive Practices – strategies for culturally responsive teaching, special educational needs and universal design for learning.
• Instructional Technology and Digital Pedagogy – integrating technology to support learning and remote/hybrid instruction.
• Action Research or Applied Capstone – an inquiry project or capstone that addresses a real school-based challenge and demonstrates impact on teaching and professional learning.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold an accredited bachelor’s degree. Preference is typically given to applicants with prior classroom experience and, where applicable, a current teaching licence or certification. Typical application materials include official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining professional goals and preferred methods/levels, a current CV or résumé, and at least one professional reference from a school-based supervisor or colleague.

Marymount may set a minimum undergraduate GPA for admission and may invite candidates to a brief interview or submission of sample work (such as a lesson plan or reflective teaching statement). Applicants whose first language is not English may need to demonstrate English language proficiency according to the university’s standard requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue roles that influence teaching quality and learning across classrooms and schools. Common career paths include instructional coach, curriculum coordinator, professional development specialist, mentor teacher, content-area specialist, and district-level trainer. The degree also prepares experienced teachers for leadership positions such as assistant principal or director of curriculum, and for roles in educational non-profits, curriculum publishing, or teacher education in higher education.

Through the programme’s applied capstone or action research component, graduates build a portfolio of evidence useful for promotion, licensure advancement, or transition into roles that require demonstrable impact on teacher practice and student learning.

Why study at Marymount University

Marymount offers a personalised learning environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, letting practising teachers balance study with professional responsibilities. The School of Education has established partnerships with local schools across the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, providing opportunities for applied research and collaborative professional learning.

The programme emphasises reflective practice, ethical leadership and culturally responsive pedagogy consistent with Marymount’s student-centred approach. Faculty bring a combination of research expertise and current school-based experience, supporting applied projects that connect theory to day-to-day classroom and professional development work.