The Graduate School at Friends University has completed a redesign of the Master of Arts in Teaching curriculum and is re-launching the updated program with a new name that reflects those changes.
Designed for working teachers, the 30-credit-hour Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning program combines in-depth core education curriculum with the opportunity for students to create an individualized research study plan.
“Each Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning student, with the guidance of a faculty advisor, will select 12 workshops specific to the student’s chosen area of teaching or education-based career path, “ says Program Director Dona Gibson, Ph.D.
The University offers more than 100 workshop choices in a wide variety of specializations selected to support custom career path development for students. The coursework offers immersive, practical experience for teachers in all levels of pre-kindergarten through high school education.
The goal of the program, says Gibson, is to provide graduate students with an opportunity to focus on gaining in-depth knowledge in areas key to their personal career plan in addition to a strong foundation in the art and science of teaching.
“The very best teachers are those that are able to engage students in the basics as well as acknowledge and nurture their individual needs, gifts and goals,” says Gibson, “Our program is designed on the philosophy that education should acknowledge diversity and build on potential—we are empowering our graduates to further that philosophy through their own students and schools.”
Friends University began offering graduate level teaching degrees in 1987 with the mission to enable and encourage graduate students to excel as educators and succeed in any area of the education profession. Program particulars have changed through the years to reflect the changes in needs and goals of the national education system as well as the changing profile of graduate students.
Faculty are networked, education practitioners who are mission focused and committed to improving teacher performance through individualized, custom instruction as well as creating global opportunities for student graduates.
Graduate student candidates may choose a variety of learning options including on-campus, online and hybrid learning programs at Friends University locations in Wichita, Topeka and Kansas City.
Friends University, a Christian University of Quaker heritage, equips students to honor God and serve others by integrating their intellectual, spiritual and professional lives.