Why study this program?
The Department of Secondary Education offers programs leading to the Master of Education, Master of Education with a Specialization in Technology in Education, Doctor of Philosophy and Doctor of Education degrees. Graduate instruction in these programs is designed to develop competencies as master teachers, educators in the specific disciplines, curriculum and instruction specialists, and curriculum and instruction scholars.
Graduate programs in the Department normally include advanced studies in the following areas: curriculum studies, curriculum perspectives, modes of inquiry, aboriginal and indigenous studies, career and technology studies (CTS), English language arts education, fine arts and media education, mathematics education, physical and health education, research methodologies, science education, second language and ESL, social studies education, teacher education, and technology in education (interdepartmental MEd). Programs of an interdisciplinary nature are possible. Programs for each student are designed in consultation with an advisor or supervisor.
Before applying for admission, it is strongly recommended that applicants ascertain whether the intended area of study is congruent with those of the department. It is also recommended that prospective students contact professors in their area of interest to determine availability and interest. This information may be found at the Department of Secondary Education's web page (uab.ca/secondary).
Applications for admission are conducted on line through the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research web page (www.gradstudies.ualberta.ca)
Additional information about graduate programs, policies, and procedures can be found in the Department of Secondary Education's Graduate Student Handbook.
Entrance Requirements
For master's programs, the Department's minimum admission requirements are an undergraduate degree with an admission GPA of at least 3.0 on the 4-point scale from the University of Alberta, or an equivalent qualification and standing from a recognized institution. The admission GPA will be calculated on the last 60 units of graded coursework completed, or on the equivalent of the last two years of full-time graded coursework.
It is recommended that applicants identify an academic advisor at the time of application. Two years teaching experience or equivalent are also required.
For doctoral programs, the Department's minimum admission requirements are a master's degree with an admission GPA of at least 3.5 on the 4-point scale from the University of Alberta, or an equivalent qualification and standing from a recognized institution. The admission GPA will be calculated on the last 60 units of graded coursework completed, or on the equivalent of the last two years of full-time graded coursework.
Applicants are required to identify a potential supervisor at the time of application. It is highly recommended that applicants have two years teaching experience or equivalent experience in a formal or informal educational context.
Where applicable, applicants must provide proof of English Language Proficiency (refer to English Language Requirement). Any one of the following is acceptable:
- a minimum TOEFL score of 93 with a score of at least 24 on speaking and writing and 21 on reading and listening (internet-based), or equivalent;
- IELTS with a minimum overall band score of 7.0, with at least 6.5 on each band;
- CAEL with an overall minimum score of 70, with at least 60 on each subtest;
- PTE (Academic) with an overall minimum score of 64
A current curriculum vitae, a statement of intent, and three letters of reference are also required. Further details about applying for programs can be found on the Department of Secondary Education website.
Course-based MEd
Students in the course-based MEd program normally must successfully complete 27 units of graduate-level courses and a final research/capping exercise (equivalent to 3 units) for a total of 30 units.
Elective Courses (18 units):
- Students will take six 3-unit Elective Courses. Elective Courses in the course-based MEd program will be determined in consultation with the academic advisor with consideration for student’s academic background and requirements for the proposed capping exercise.
- The number of Individual Study (EDSE 502 ) courses that can be taken is limited to 3 units per semester and 6 units per program.
Thesis-based MEd
Students in the thesis-based MEd program normally must successfully complete 21 units of graduate-level courses, as well as preparing and defending a thesis.
Elective Courses (9 units):
- Students will take three 3-unit Elective Courses. Elective Courses in the thesis-based MEd program will be determined in consultation with the supervisor with consideration for the student’s academic background and proposed thesis.
- The number of Individual Study (EDSE 502 ) courses that can be taken is limited to 3 units per semester and 6 units per program
Residence Requirement
There is no formal residency requirement for the course-based MEd. A period of residence of one academic year (fall and winter terms) is recommended for the thesis-based program.
Length of Program
The time taken to complete the program will vary according to the education and experience of the applicant and the nature of the research undertaken. A minimum of two years is usually required.
The maximum time to complete the course-based MEd program as set by the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies is six years.
The maximum time to complete the thesis-based MEd program as set by the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies is four years.
Courses
Graduate courses can be found in Course Listings , under the subject heading Secondary Education (EDSE, EDES, and EDCT).
A number of graduate assistantships are available to qualified candidates for the EdD or PhD in Secondary Education for services rendered in the Department's research and teaching programs. These assistantships do not provide full support.
There are a number of financial supports available to students through fellowships, scholarships, and awards through the Faculty of Education, the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research (FGSR), and the Graduate Students Association.
The Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research administers over $29 million each year in scholarships, awards, and financial support for graduate students, as well as financial and loan advising. Additional scholarships are also available for specific faculties and programs.
Please refer to the detailed program information or email essgrad3@ualberta.ca.
General inquiriesPlease check out some of our most frequently asked questions (FAQS) to see if your question has been answered, or contact the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies (GPS) during our office hours.
Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research (FGSR)
Killam Centre for Advanced Studies
2-29 Triffo Hall
University of Alberta
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E1