University of New England

Degree: Master of Science in Education (MSEd) with a choice of four concentrations

College: Arts and Sciences

Department: Education

Contact: Dr. Douglas Lynch (Chair)  dlynch@une.edu

Program Information
Overview
The Master of Science in Education on-line programs are 30 credits, fifteen of which are a core curriculum taken by all master’s degree candidates and fifteen that are in an area of concentration.  Courses are ordinarily scheduled in eight (8) week blocks. The core curriculum, involving five 3-credit classes, focuses on areas that are critical for any position that an educator holds.  The first core class explores how teachers ARE leaders and how leadership is tied to being inspired to reach all students.  From this foundation, differentiation theory and strategies as well as motivational theory and practice enter, so that the success of all students is actualized.  The last two courses of the core are taken at the end of the program and they involve conducting action research within a chosen area and also creating a final portfolio that documents the learning throughout the program.  In this set-up, these core courses provide “bookends” around the selected concentration which involve 15-credits or five courses within a focus area of Curriculum and Instruction Strategies, Educational Leadership, Inclusion Education, or Literacy, K-12. 

Concentrations

• MSEd with a concentration in Curriculum & Instruction Strategies
  Curriculum & Instruction Strategies is for K-12 educators who wish to focus on strengthening their classroom in those challenging areas of literacy and inclusion with a course on instructional leadership examining how one can impact curriculum beyond the single classroom.
• MSEd with a concentration in Educational Leadership
  The Educational Leadership concentration is designed for K-12 educators who are considering school administration.  These courses are matched to the national standards set by the Interstate School Leaders Licensure Consortium (ISLLC) and provide entry-level knowledge and skills for beginning school administrators.  Teachers will be introduced to the theories and practices of effective leadership centering on the importance of team building, decision making, problem solving and strategic planning.  Within these areas, focus is placed on supervision and evaluation of personnel, the legal milieu and analysis skills to interpret potential legal issues within the school, budget development and expenditure, and organization theory especially as it relates to change.  Specific state requirements for entry level into the assistant principal or principal level should be consulted to ensure requirements for your locale will be met.  Additional courses in Educational Leadership are available for further study.
• MSEd with a concentration in Inclusion Education
  The Inclusion Education concentration is designed for those regular educators, both teachers and administrators, who wish to have more background in special education with respect to inclusion practices and concerns.  This unique concentration explores methods and strategies for teaching all students in inclusion settings with a special course on the range and use of assistive technologies.  Furthermore, formal and informal procedures for assessing special needs students will be reviewed with a focus always on utilizing the results to inform and plan instruction.  Finally, the ability to apply special education law to your setting and a practicum to integrate all your learning concludes this concentration.
• MSEd with a concentration in Literacy (K-12)
  The Literacy concentration is designed for those K-12 educators who wish to delve deeper into the importance of reading and writing for all students to be successful.  Current research and theory are translated into practice with each and every class.  Teachers will be coached to implement these strategies and join colleagues on-line to critique the outcome.  Additionally, assessment in literacy will be linked to next steps in connecting data to teaching practice.   Study skills and literacy interventions that can be used within the content area will be explored.  In short, the basic premise of this concentration is that literacy skills are central for all students to succeed, so how do we transform what the research indicates to inform practice. 
  

Accreditation
The MSEd programs are approved by the Maine State Board of Education. All programs at the University of New England are accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).

Requirements

1. A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution substantiated by official transcripts.
2. Minimum of one year teaching experience.
3. Employed as a teacher or able to access a classroom on a regular basis over an extended period of time.
4. Strong writing skills, a capacity to succeed in a distance education format, and a commitment to educational change and professional development as evidenced by your goal statement submitted at the time of application.

UNE carefully assesses MSEd applicants on the basis of evidence provided in all application materials submitted. Therefore, while a personal interview is not required, application materials submitted must be prepared thoroughly and thoughtfully for full consideration.

Additional prerequisites to participate in one of the on-line Master of Science in Education programs include:

1. A sincere interest in continuing professional development as an educational leader.
2. The potential to improve practice through application of new knowledge and skills.
3. Current employment in an educational setting where you have regular access to an environment in which you can apply course concepts and strategies.
4. The ability to pursue challenging online graduate study.
5. Sufficient computer skills to navigate the worldwide web and effectively participate in an on-line program.
6. Own or have regular access to a computer with internet connection and with the hardware and software requirements described on the webpage http://uneonline.org.
7. Motivation to complete all course assignments in a satisfactory and timely manner.

Required Documentation and Policies for Admission

1. A completed application with all supporting documentation (official transcripts, proof of teaching certification, goal statement, and letters of reference, if required) must be submitted to:  University of New England, Offsite Admissions Center, Attn. Dayle Bryant, 2145 Metro Center Blvd.,  Suite 400, Orlando FL 32835-6217.
   by the following deadlines (updated Oct 2008):
   
   

   Terms in 2009	Completed Application Deadline	Beginning of Term
   Fall Term  A	August 3, 2009	September 9, 2009
   Fall Term  B	October 2, 2009	October 29, 2009
   Spring Term A	December 19, 2008	January 14, 2009
   Spring Term B	February 13, 2009	March 12, 2009
   Summer Term A	April 17, 2009	May 11, 2009
   Summer Term B	June 5, 2009	June 29, 2009

2. $40 non-refundable application fee.
3. Goal Statement - A minimum of two double-spaced typewritten pages including information about your experience as a teacher, your interest in graduate level study, your capacity to succeed in a distance education format, and your post-master's professional goals.
4. Official transcript(s) from the accredited institution(s) from which you attained your baccalaureate degree and have completed any graduate courses (must have official seal). NOTE: Although there is no minimally acceptable grade point average for admission, grade point average will be considered as an additional indicator of potential for success in the program.
5. Teaching certificate or evidence of teaching experience.
6. If you are not currently employed as a classroom teacher you will need the following: (1) a statement of your plan to access a classroom; (2) a letter of invitation from the teacher in whose classroom you propose to work on a weekly basis over an extended period of time; and, (3) a letter from the principal, who is responsible for the school's instructional program, accepting your plan for access.
7. Applications will not be processed until all required items have been received by UNE. Completed applications with late materials may be reviewed for admission in the next semester.

Each online course ordinarily is scheduled for 8 weeks so a student has the ability to enroll in 2 courses each semester, one in Term A and one in Term B.

MSEd –Curriculum & Instruction Strategies
Core Courses
EDU 600—Teacher as Leader
EDU 610 - Differentiation Theory & Strategies
EDU 615 - Motivational Theory & Classroom Management
EDU 690 - Action Research & Case Study 
EDU 695 - Portfolio               
 
Concentration Courses
EDU 707 Instructional Leadership
EDU 721 Using Technology within Inclusion Education
EDU 723 Teaching and Learning in Inclusion Settings
EDU 742 Study Skills & Content Literacy Instruction for All
EDU 743 Connecting Reading with Writing for Success

MSEd - Educational Leadership  (Note: EDU 702, 704, 709, 715 are required for Assistant Principal license in Maine)
Core Courses
EDU 600—Teacher as Leader
EDU 610 - Differentiation Theory & Strategies
EDU 615 - Motivational Theory & Classroom Management
EDU 690 - Action Research & Case Study 
EDU 695 - Portfolio  

Concentration Courses
EDU 701 – Educational Leadership
EDU 702 - School Law
EDU 704 - Supervision and Evaluation of Instructional Personnel
EDU 709 - School Finance 
EDU 715 - Organizational Theory and Strategic Planning   

MSEd - Inclusion Education
Core Courses
EDU 600 - Teacher as Leader
EDU 610 - Differentiation Theory & Strategies
EDU 615 - Motivational Theory & Classroom Management
EDU 690 - Action Research & Case Study 
EDU 695 - Portfolio  

Concentration Courses
EDU 720 - Special Education Law for the Classroom
EDU 721 - Using Technology within Inclusion Education
EDU 722 - Special Education Assessment in Inclusion Settings
EDU 723 - Teaching and Learning in Inclusion Settings
EDU 724 - Practicum/Internship in Inclusion Settings

MSEd – Literacy (K-12)
Core Courses
EDU 600—Teacher as Leader
EDU 610 - Differentiation Theory & Strategies
EDU 615 - Motivational Theory & Classroom Management
EDU 690 - Action Research & Case Study 
EDU 695 - Portfolio 
            
Concentration Courses
EDU 740 Supporting Literacy Development for All Learners
EDU 741 Literacy Assessments as Teaching Tools
EDU 742 Study Skills & Content Literacy Instruction for All
EDU 743 Connecting Reading with Writing for Success
EDU 744 Meeting Student Literacy Challenges
 
Academic Policies 
Transfer Credit/Experiential Learning
Neither transfer credit nor credit for experiential learning is accepted into the on-line MSEd programs, as we believe full participation in the MSEd curriculum is necessary to achieve the desired integration of theory and practice the program provides.

Course Withdrawal Policy
The last date to withdraw from a course with no record is the first day of course. Students who withdraw from a course must do so in writing (e-mail is acceptable) by the end of the fourth week of the course.  Students will receive a “W” on their transcripts indicating withdrawal.  Beyond the fourth week, at the faculty’s discretion, a “WP” or “WF” may be assigned if extenuating circumstances do not allow the student to complete his/her work. Be aware that no portion of the tuition will be refunded after the second week of the course.

Minimal Grade Standard and Academic Progress
Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 (B or better) with no less than a “C” in any course. Failure to maintain a GPA of 3.0 will result in academic probation and possible termination from the program. Students receiving a grade below a “C” in a course must repeat the course before continuing on in the program.  If a student receives an “F” in any course he/she will be immediately placed on academic probation. This student must register and pass the failed course with grade of “C” or better before registering for any additional credits.  Unsuccessful completion (C- or below) of two courses will result in ineligibility to continue in the program.

If a student feels the grade is in error, the first step in the appeal process is to discuss the outcome with the course instructor.  If the issue is not resolved satisfactorily, the student should follow the grievance policy outlined in the program of study found on the website.

Dismissal from the Program
Termination from the Program will occur when the Graduate Coordinator and Chair of the Education Department become aware of one of the following:

• Surrender of a teacher license in any jurisdiction for disciplinary reasons.
• Documented academic dishonesty (Note this also includes course on-line postings and email communications with faculty and staff. Students are advised that their behavior while participating in the Program should exemplify the ethical behavior of a professional educator with respect to all communications.)
• Serious reservations identified on the Professional Performance Student Self-Assessment and Review instrument.
• Academic failure (see “Minimal Grade Standard and Academic Progress”.)

Timeline for Completion/Leave of Absence |
A student has not completed the MSEd Program within three (3) years will be administratively withdrawn from the program and be required to apply for readmission. Students may take a slightly reduced course load in any term if necessary. These arrangements are the responsibility of the student and must be communicated to in writing to the graduate program coordinator.

Students may “stop out” for one term, if necessary, and take an additional term to complete the program. The required Request for Leave of Absence form must be filed with the MSEd office and the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences if this will be occurring.  Application for readmission is not necessary if the student returns as planned; however, the student who does not return at the specified time will be administratively withdrawn and will be subject to readmission procedures. Policy on leave of absence tuition credit is found in respective Financial Information sections of this catalog. Note: It is the responsibility of the student to contact the Dean's Office and  the Education Department to indicate change of plans.

Re-admission
Students who have withdrawn from the program, either self-initiated or administrative withdrawal, must reapply to the program if they wish to continue their studies. The application procedures, academic policies, and program requirements that are in effect at the time of readmission will apply.

Students who re-enroll following withdrawal will have their previous coursework evaluated for applicability to the existing academic requirements. Coursework that is more than five years old will not be accepted for credit in the  program.

Academic Honesty Policy
The University of New England regards academic integrity as an essential component to the educational process. Charges of academic dishonesty will be handled through the dean of the appropriate college. Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to:

1. Cheating, copying, or the offering or receiving of unauthorized assistance or information.
2. Fabrication or falsification of data, results, or sources for papers or reports.
3. Action that destroys or alters the work of another student.
4. Multiple submission of the same paper or report for assignments in more than one course without permission of each instructor.
5. Plagiarism, the appropriation of records, research materials, ideas, or the language of other persons or writers and the submission of them as one's own.

It is expected that students will accurately and correctly document all academic resources. APA format is the required style for citing sources and establishing a bibliography. If you are unfamiliar with what constitutes plagiarism, please do an online search to acquaint yourself with all of the components of plagiarism. You may also check the Georgetown University Honor Council for a plagiarism description.

Documented instances of academic dishonesty will be reviewed by UNE administrators. Violation of the academic honesty policy will result in a grade of "F" being issued for the course involved. A student who has violated the academic honesty policy may also be dismissed from the program and the university.

Tuition and Fees
Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.

Technology  Fee
A technology fee is required to help cover the costs of the Internet connections, student technology infrastructure, student web mail accounts and web mail administration for those students in the MSEd program.

Financial Aid
Students in one of the MSEd programs who are enrolled for at least three credits per semester may be eligible to receive financial assistance in the form of federal student loans. These loans may be used to pay the student's institutional charges each semester. For additional information, please contact the Financial Aid Office at (207) 602-2342 or visit the Financial Aid website.

Graduation Requirements

• All MSEd degree candidates must fulfill the following academic requirements: Satisfactorily complete all required courses, readings, assignments and papers in a timely manner.
• Abide by all University regulations applicable to MSEd students.
• Fulfill all financial obligations in a timely manner.

Students With Disabilities
Students with disabilities who require accommodations or modifications should communicate their needs to the Director, Office of Students with Disabilities, University of New England, 11 Hills Beach Road, Biddeford, ME 04005.

Communication 
The e-mail account is the official means for University communication. As such, students are responsible for information that is distributed to them via e-mail. This web-based e-mail account allows students to pick up their e-mail from any computer connected to the Internet.

Name and Address Changes
Students are responsible for notifying the University of New England Education Office and Registrar's Office of name, address, phone, and email changes through the Change of Address, Name, or Phone Form.
 
Technical Support for On-line Courses
Students who require assistance with access to the online core courses should address their computer access questions/problems to the 24/7 technical support help desk available through our service provider, eCollege.

Commencement 
Graduates are encouraged to participate in the commencement ceremonies held in mid-May. They are notified of times and date when close to completing requirements for the degree.

Notice and Responsibilities Regarding this Catalog

This Catalog documents the academic programs, policies, and activities of the University of New England for the 2008-2009 academic year. The information contained herein is accurate as of date of publication August 1, 2008.

The University of New England reserves the right in its sole judgment to make changes of any nature in its programs, calendar, or academic schedule whenever it is deemed necessary or desirable, including changes in course content, the rescheduling of classes with or without extending the academic term, canceling of scheduled classes or other academic activities, in any such case giving such notice thereof as is reasonably practicable under the circumstances.

While each student may work closely with an academic advisor, he or she must retain individual responsibility for meeting requirements in this catalog and for being aware of any changes in provisions or requirements.