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    Jul 02, 2024  
Missouri Baptist University 2023-2024 Graduate Bulletin 
    
Missouri Baptist University 2023-2024 Graduate Bulletin [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

School of Educational Leadership



Mission Statement

Missouri Baptist University’s School of Educational Leadership endeavors to cultivate aspiring educational leaders to become champions of positive change within local, national, and international organizations. Our leaders will develop and sustain systems to ensure collaboration, reflective practices, cultural diversity, and continuous improvement. The School of Educational Leadership is rooted in academic excellence guided by our Christian world view.

Doctor of Education - Higher Education Leadership

Mission Statement: The Ed.D. program is an outgrowth of the University’s mission of “preparing students to serve in a global and culturally diverse society” and the School of Education’s mission of developing “reflective, problem-solving professional educators of excellence.” The Ed.D. program is a natural extension of academic programs, projects, and community activities that are already in progress.

Overview: The Ed.D. program in Higher Education Leadership focuses on the knowledge and practical skills needed for effective instructional and administrative leadership in the higher education setting. The program addresses the issues of concern for educational leaders, including the instructional leadership needed to work toward the elimination of achievement gaps and the administrative leadership required to focus on student learning outcomes. Students in the program engage in course-embedded field-based inquiry, internships, and applied doctoral research to investigate these issues. Students conduct applied research in an attempt to solve practical problems in the higher education arena. Research includes assessment of student learning outcomes, evaluation of programs and services, identification of community educational needs, and other investigations providing information higher education leaders need in the decision-making process.

Primary Audience: The primary audience for the Ed.D. program consists of educational professionals who aspire to be or who are already serving as vice presidents, deans, department chairs, faculty, and administrative staff, although there may be some interest from other staff as well.  These individuals must have completed a master’s degree. 

Themes

The Ed.D. program emphasizes the needs of leaders within the following themes:

  • Leadership in higher education teaching and learning (as a lens through which decisions are made and problems are solved).
  • Applied field research (a component of individual courses as well as the culminating dissertation).
  • Diversity (diverse experiences working with diverse populations).
  • Technology (the sophisticated use of all forms of technology in data collection and analysis in research and in delivery of instruction).
  • Service to the community (following the mission of the University “to prepare students to serve in a global and culturally diverse society”).
  • Reflective practice (the core of the College of Education’s Conceptual Framework).

These themes reflect the goals of the Ed.D. program. The program prepares leaders who are aware of increased diversity in classrooms, of greater expectations for student learning, and of new opportunities to use technology.

Objectives

Students in the Ed.D. program will:

  • Demonstrate the ability to engage in original, field-based inquiry and research related to pedagogy, pedagogical content knowledge, and/or strategies for improving teaching and learning in complex and diverse settings.
  • Engage in moral and ethical decision-making using analytical and interdisciplinary methods for assessing the complicated financial, political, and cultural issues and dilemmas facing higher education.
  • Demonstrate the ability to use sophisticated technological tools for the collection and evaluation of data to make strategic decisions and changes in policies and processes related to teaching and learning.
  • Demonstrate critical reflection in analyzing multi-faceted problems at the higher education level and developing creative solutions for resolving these problems.
  • Demonstrate leadership skills in assessment, problem-solving, and both short-term and long-term strategic planning related to teaching and learning.

Continuous Enrollment: Students will enter the Ed.D. program as a cohort group and move through the program with their assigned group. Students will enroll in each 12-week term until the end of the coursework and the end of the dissertation.

Course Load and Timeline: The load for students enrolled in the Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership program will be one or two three-hour courses every twelve weeks. The timeline for completion of the entire program for most students is projected to be two and a half years, although some students may take longer to complete the dissertation. Students who take longer than two and a half years will be required to enroll in a zero credit hour extension with a fee the equivalent to one credit hour for each 12-week term beyond the tenth quarter in the program.  It is expected students will begin the process of the dissertation with the appointment of a Doctoral Committee Chair near the end of the third quarter in the program.  The study must be completed within five years after admission into the program.  

Residency: Students are required to attend one 3-day professional residency on Missouri Baptist University’s main campus in St. Louis, MO.  The purpose of the residency is to provide doctoral students with supported and continued participation with cohort members and faculty in activities that drive intellectual and creative inquiry.  An expected outcome of the residency is that students will acquire new skills and knowledge to refine their dissertation design, strengthen their research techniques, and develop their leadership principles.

Assessment: Assessment of the growth of the Ed.D. student will be ongoing, multi-faceted, and in the form of course-embedded assessments and Doctoral Dissertation/Oral Defense requirements.

Course-Embedded Assessments: Assessments embedded in the Ed.D. courses include case studies, surveys, professor-made examinations, and projects as well as formative and summative evaluations. These will be based on both program and course objectives and will be reflected in the syllabi of the courses.

Dissertation

Students must complete a dissertation using either quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods research. Requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • An “original” research design and proposal related to a problem in the area of Higher Education Leadership.
  • A comprehensive review of seminal historic and current literature on the problem, beginning with a broad background of research and culminating with literature that most specifically relates to the proposal.
  • A high level of conceptual complexity and critical analysis of the problem
  • A scholarly quantitative, qualitative, or mixed research project approved by the student’s Doctoral Dissertation Committee, the Pre-Proposal Defense Coaches, and the Institutional Review Board (IRB) and conducted appropriately.
  • Appropriate interpretation of research findings and conclusions drawn from those findings.
  • Articulation and defense of the dissertation in an open presentation before the Doctoral Dissertation Committee, faculty, and other graduate students.
  • Publication of the dissertation through ProQuest.

The Doctoral Dissertation is normally expected to be at least 100 pages with no less than 50 references, unless otherwise directed by the Doctoral Dissertation Committee. The writing style of the American Psychological Association (APA), Seventh Edition, will be followed. The research study must include a well-formulated statement of the rationale for the study and research methodology; a thorough and analytic review of related research; a concise explanation of the research design; and appropriate analysis of results and  conclusions.

If students are not able to complete the dissertation within the coursework, students will be given two free research terms that run consecutively. If the dissertation is still not completed after the two free research terms, the student will enroll in a zero credit hour extension each quarter with a fee equivalent to one credit hour.

Doctoral Dissertation Committee: The Dissertation Committee approves the dissertation proposal and the Pre-Proposal Defense Form before it goes to the Pre-Proposal Defense Coaches and the IRB application before it goes to the IRB and assists the student in the research and writing of the study. The committee consists of two members: a committee chair and one committee member. The chair of the committee should be selected from the listing of Graduate Faculty designated as eligible to chair committees. Selection of the chair is an interactive process involving both the student and desired chair from among faculty with compatible research interests and experience. Formal dialogue about the student’s study can begin as soon as the chair has been approved by the Vice President for Graduate Affairs or his/her designee. The full committee is selected by the end of the third quarter. The committee members will have completed an earned Ed.D. or Ph.D.  One external committee member may be selected, assuming such individuals meet the requirements for working with doctoral-level students. The committee chair and committee member must be approved in advance by the Vice President for Graduate Affairs or his/her designee. Normally, the student’s study has received approval of the committee and the IRB no later than the end of the sixth quarter in the program. Specific work on the study, beyond definition, development of the proposed research design, and the review and analysis of relevant historic and contemporary research and scholarship, may NOT begin until the IRB has approved the research study.

Institutional Review Board (IRB) Approval: The IRB consists of faculty and qualified staff from MBU’s graduate program. This board is responsible for ensuring that all MBU research complies with University and federal guidelines. The IRB reviews all proposed research studies in the Ed.D. program for compliance with the ethical standards of human research. IRB approval is required before collection of any data.

Doctoral Dissertation and Oral Defense Requirements

The Doctoral Dissertation demonstrates the student’s ability to engage in independent research by identifying a significant problem or question, developing a sophisticated methodology for analyzing the problem, and subsequently identifying the findings and drawing conclusions related to leadership.

After completing the dissertation, submitting the final written paper, and gaining final approval of the study from the dissertation committee, and final readers, the student will defend the research study and conclusions before the dissertation committee, faculty, and other graduate students. The oral defense will be scored based on the following expectations:

  • The breadth and depth of the review of literature related to the study
  • The validity of the methodology used in the study
  • The level of critical reasoning used in drawing the conclusions of the research
  • The complexity of arguments used to defend the study
  • The impact of the study on the field of higher education leadership.

Based on the oral defense, additional revisions to the study may be required, and the chair of the committee will provide stipulations for the suggested changes. If the oral defense is approved, the Committee signs the Oral Defense Report.  If the oral defense is not approved, the student will continue to work with the Committee and may schedule a second and final Oral Defense. The student has six months from when they receive final approval to schedule and successfully complete the oral defense. The final approved draft will be submitted to the Vice President for Graduate Affairs for final administrative approval, and, if approved, the student will receive notification from the Ed.D. office indicating completion of the Ed.D. program. The student will then prepare the dissertation for publication.

Summary of the Ed.D - Higher Education Leadership Degree Process

To earn the Ed.D. degree in Higher Education Leadership, a student must complete each of the following steps:

  1. The student must follow a comprehensive plan of study assigned by the Doctor of Education Office.
  2. The student must complete all coursework included in the plan of study.
  3. The student must successfully present his/her doctoral dissertation to colleagues and faculty as scheduled.
  4. An Application for Graduation, signed by the student, Director of Ed.D. program, and Vice President for Graduate Affairs, must be filed with the Graduate Office and the Records Office in the semester prior to the term in which the student intends to graduate. For doctoral students to be considered eligible to participate in commencement ceremonies, the student must submit the committee approved final dissertation to the Ed.D. office by January 31, to start the final steps of the dissertation.
  5. Students must pay the required graduation fee. Students are encouraged to participate in the graduation ceremony. Students must notify the Vice President for Graduate Affairs and the Director of Records if they choose not to participate. Students must pay the graduation fee whether or not they attend commencement.
  6. All graduate students must have a 3.0 cumulative grade point average in order to graduate from the program.

Transfer Students and Transfer Credit: Missouri Baptist University will accept up to six (6) transfer credits from another regionally accredited college or university for students entering the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Higher Education Leadership degree program. Transfer credits must have been earned within seven (7) years prior to entry into the Ed.D. Higher Education Leadership Program. Transfer credits must be approved by the Director of the Doctor of Education Program and must have grades of A, B, S, CR, or P.

Directed Studies: Courses in the Doctor of Education program are not available by directed study, as specified in the course description.

Grade Requirements: Doctoral level graduate students must earn a grade of B or better in doctoral level courses in order to continue in the Doctor of Education program. A student who receives a grade lower than B will be asked to withdraw from the doctoral program. Research Requirements must comply with each course syllabus expectation along with the University’s Institutional Review Board (IRB).

Program Requirements: The Ed.D. program in Higher Education Leadership requires a total of 42 hours beyond the master’s degree.

Doctor of Education - Leadership in Teaching and Learning

Mission Statement: The Ed.D. program is an outgrowth of Missouri Baptist University’s (MBU) mission of “preparing students to serve in a global and culturally diverse society” and the School of Education’s mission to develop “reflective, problem-solving professional educators of excellence.” The Ed.D. program is a natural extension of academic programs, projects, and community activities that are already in progress. The added dimension of the educational doctorate is to build a “culture of applied research” to serve the PK-12 community, locally, nationally, and internationally. The emphasis will be on creating climates that will help administrators and faculty make changes in the context of teaching, learning, and leadership.

Overview

The Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Leadership in Teaching and Learning program is a practical degree program that builds on an earned Specialist Degree or its equivalent. It is designed to meet the needs of professional administrators and leaders in areas such as curriculum and instruction at the PK-Grade 12 district level. The program emphasizes the development of leadership in teaching and learning strategies that assist schools in promoting a culture of learning, inquiry, innovation, continuous improvement, and equity. The focus on leadership in teaching and learning in this program places achievement in the broader context of scholarship and lifelong learning. 

The added dimension of the educational doctorate is to build a “culture of applied research” which will continue to serve the PK-Grade 12 and higher educational community. 

Primary Audience: The primary audience for the Ed.D. program consists of educational professionals who aspire to be or who are already serving as superintendents, assistant superintendents, college instructors, and curriculum coordinators, although there may be some interest from building-level leaders and administrators as well. To be considered for admission, applicants must have completed an Ed.S. degree or the equivalent in postmaster’s level study.

Program Themes:

The Ed.D. program emphasizes the needs of leaders within the following themes:

  • Leadership in Teaching and Learning - used as a lens through which decisions are made and problems are solved; 
  • Applied Field Research - a component of individual courses as well as the dissertation; 
  • Diversity - diverse experiences working with diverse populations; 
  • Service to the Community - following the mission of MBU to “prepare students to serve in a global and culturally diverse society”; 
  • Reflective Practice - the core of the College of Education’s Conceptual Framework.

These themes reflect the focus of the Ed.D. program to prepare today’s leaders in the areas of visionary leadership, instructional leadership, managerial leadership, relational leadership, and innovative leadership. 

Objectives

Students in the Ed.D. program will:

  • Demonstrate the ability to engage in original, field-based inquiry and research related to pedagogy, pedagogical content knowledge, and/or district-wide strategies for improving teaching and learning in complex and diverse settings.
  • Engage in moral and ethical decision-making using analytical and interdisciplinary methods for assessing the complicated financial, political, and cultural issues and dilemmas facing public and private school systems.
  • Demonstrate the ability to use sophisticated technological tools for the collection and evaluation of data to make strategic decisions and changes in policies and processes related to teaching and learning.
  • Demonstrate critical reflection in analyzing multi-faceted problems at the district and state level and developing creative solutions for resolving these problems.
  • Demonstrate leadership skills in assessment, problem-solving, and both short-term and long-term strategic planning related to teaching and learning.

Continuous Enrollment

Students will enter the Ed.D. program as a cohort group and move through the program with their assigned group. Students will enroll in each 12-week term until the end of the coursework and completion of the dissertation. 

Dissertation Continuation - GRED 770 : Should students not complete their dissertation by the end of the coursework, they will be required to enroll in a 0-credit hour extension each quarter with a fee the equivalent of one credit hour until the final approval of the dissertation. This enrollment will satisfy the continuous enrollment policy.

Please reference the Ed.D. Handbook for more specific information. The Ed.D. Handbook can be found at https://www.mobap.edu/academics/current-doctoral-students/.

Course Load and Timeline: The load for students enrolled in the Ed.D. program will be one three-hour course every twelve weeks or a total of 12 credit hours by the end of the first year. One class will be on main campus. The timeline for completion of the program for most students is projected to be two years, although some students may take longer to complete the doctoral dissertation.  Students who take longer than two years will be required to enroll in a zero credit hour extension each quarter with a fee the equivalent to one credit hour.  It is expected that students will begin the process for completion of the doctoral dissertation with the appointment of a Dissertation Committee Chair near the end of the second quarter or early in the third quarter.

Field-Based Research: Two doctoral classes, EDUC 723  and EDAD 743 , include a field-based research project. These field experiences will be action research projects requiring students to (a) identify a problem within a district setting or topic related to the dissertation study, (b) obtain the permissions and approvals necessary to engage in research, and (c) use appropriate research methods for collecting and evaluating data.

Research Methods Classes

GRED 753  and GRED 763  prepare students for the Doctoral Dissertation with an understanding of both quantitative and qualitative research methods.

  • In Methods of Inquiry II (GRED 753 ), students develop a working knowledge of (a) the key statistical techniques required for various research designs, (b) the interpretation and reporting of research findings, and (c) the necessary analysis required for completing a research project.
  • In Methods of Inquiry III (GRED 763 ), students practice formulating qualitative questions related to problems in the field of education and identify appropriate qualitative procedures. Students construct data collection protocols for interviews and observations, design surveys, practice document analysis, and apply coding and classification techniques for organizing and interpreting data.

It is expected that individuals completing the Ed.D. degree will continue to engage in applied research at the district level as leaders in the process of teaching and learning.

Assessment: Assessment of the growth of the Ed.D. student will be ongoing, multi-faceted, and in the form of course-embedded assessments, field-based research evaluations, the Pre-Proposal Defense (PPD) and the Doctoral Dissertation Defense requirements.

Course-Embedded Assessments: Assessments embedded in the Ed.D. courses include case studies, surveys, faculty-made examinations, course papers, and projects as well as formative and summative evaluations. These will be based on both program and course objectives and will be reflected in course syllabi.

Dissertation

Students must complete a six-hour dissertation course (GRED 786 ) using either quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods research. Requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • An original research design and proposal related to a problem within the student’s respected field; 
  • A comprehensive review of seminal historic and current literature on the problem, beginning with a broad background of research and culminating with literature that most specifically relates to the proposal;
  • A high level of conceptual complexity and critical analysis of the problem;
  • A scholarly quantitative, qualitative, or mixed research project approved by the student’s Doctoral Dissertation Committee, the Pre-Proposal Defense Coaches, and the Institutional Review Board (IRB) and conducted appropriately;
  • Appropriate interpretation of research findings and conclusions drawn from those findings;
  • Articulation and defense of the dissertation in an open presentation before the Doctoral Dissertation Committee, faculty, and other graduate students; and
  • Publication of the dissertation through ProQuest.

Please reference the Ed.D. Handbook for more specific information. The Ed.D. Handbook can be found at https://www.mobap.edu/academics/current-doctoral-students/.

Doctoral Dissertation Committee

The function of the Dissertation Committee is to guide and advise students through the process of writing their dissertation. The Leadership in Teaching and Learning Doctoral Dissertation Committee consists of three members: Chair, Second member, and Third Member.

The Dissertation Committee serves as a support to students as well as a bridge between the institution’s expectations and the student’s work. Committee members work with institutional support staff and faculty directly to offer feedback and suggestions, as MBU is committed to a student-centered dissertation model.

Please reference the Ed.D. Handbook for more specific information. The Ed.D. Handbook can be found at https://www.mobap.edu/academics/current-doctoral-students/.

Institutional Review Board (IRB) Approval

The IRB consists of faculty and qualified staff from MBU’s graduate program. This board is responsible for ensuring that all MBU research complies with University and federal guidelines. The IRB reviews all proposed research studies in the Ed.D. program for compliance with the ethical standards of human research. Prior to collecting any data, the student must receive approval from IRB.

Please reference the Ed.D. Handbook for more specific information. The Ed.D. Handbook can be found at https://www.mobap.edu/academics/current-doctoral-students/.

Doctoral Dissertation and Oral Defense Requirements

The Doctoral Dissertation demonstrates the student’s ability to conceptualize and engage in independent research by identifying a significant problem and related question(s), developing a sophisticated methodology for analyzing the problem, and subsequently identifying the findings and drawing conclusions related to the results of the study.

After completing the dissertation, submitting the final written paper, and gaining final approval of the study from the Dissertation Committee and final readers, the student will satisfactorily defend the research study and conclusions during a formal oral defense, before the dissertation committee, faculty, other graduate students, and guests. The oral defense will be scored based on the following expectations:

  • The breadth and depth of the review of literature related to the study
  • The validity of the methodology used in the study
  • The level of critical reasoning used in drawing the conclusions of the research
  • The complexity of arguments used to defend the study
  • The impact of the study on the field of leadership in teaching and learning

Additional revisions to the study may be required, and the chair of the committee will provide stipulations for the suggested changes. If the oral defense is approved, the Dissertation Committee signs the Oral Defense Report. If the oral defense is not approved, the student will continue to work with the Dissertation Committee and may schedule a second and final oral defense. The student has six months from when they receive final approval to schedule and successfully complete the oral defense. The final approved draft will be submitted to the Vice President for Graduate Affairs for the final administrative approval, and, if approved, the student will receive notification from the Ed.D. office.

Summary of the Doctor of Education Degree Process

To earn the Ed.D. degree in Leadership in Teaching and Learning, a student must complete each of the following steps:

  1. Dissertation Committee Selection and Approval
  2. Pre-Proposal Form and Defense
  3. Proposal Submission and Approval (Chapters 1-3)
  4. Institutional Review Board Application and Approval
  5. Committee Approval of Chapters 1-5
  6. MBU Expert and Final Reader
  7. Oral Defense
  8. Final Submission
  9. Polishing and Publication

Please reference the Ed.D. Handbook for more specific information. The Ed.D. Handbook can be found at https://www.mobap.edu/academics/current-doctoral-students/.

Transfer Students and Transfer Credit: Credits will not be considered for transfer into the Ed.D. program in Leadership in Teaching and Learning, with the exception of the Statistics and Methods I course.

Directed Studies: Courses in the Doctor of Education program are not available by directed study, as specified in the course description.

Grade Requirements

Doctoral level graduate students must earn a grade of B or better in doctoral level courses and maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA in order to continue in the Doctor of Education program. A student who receives a grade lower than B will be asked to withdraw from the doctoral program.  A student who receives a grade of XF or F in any class will be asked to withdraw from his/her graduate program. 

Research Requirements must comply with each course syllabus expectation along with the University’s Institutional Review Board (IRB).

Doctor of Education Degree Requirements: The Ed.D. program in Leadership in Teaching and Learning requires a total of 24 credit hours beyond the Ed.S., or its equivalent. The courses are built upon the curriculum of a 30-credit hour Ed.S. program. GRED 703  (3 credit hours), or its equivalent, is a requirement for the Ed.D. program. Most students will be able to satisfy the requirement for GRED 703  with previous coursework taken within the last seven years.

Educational Specialist - Curriculum & Instruction

Mission Statement: The School of Education at Missouri Baptist University seeks to develop reflective, problem-solving, professional educators of excellence from a Christian perspective; to enhance the lives of students in the classroom intellectually, spiritually, physically, and socially; and to significantly influence students through the demonstrated integration of Christian faith and learning in the classroom, so that they may become positive change agents in a globally and culturally diverse society.

Overview 

The Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) program is intended for professionals in public or private schools who are seeking instructional leadership roles at the district level.

  • The Curriculum and Instruction concentration is designed for master teachers or curriculum coordinators who wish to serve as exemplars of instructional strategies and learning processes.

Each Ed.S. degree candidate is required to develop a comprehensive plan of study indicating timelines and required courses with the Graduate Advisor. The worksheet for the plan of study is available in the Graduate Advisor’s office and must be completed and approved at the beginning of the student’s program. The plan of study should be reviewed periodically with a Graduate Advisor to ensure that the student is meeting desired academic goals.

Online Program: The Curriculum & Instruction concentration of the Ed.S. degree is offered primarily as an online program, although it may be offered face-to-face for the predetermined cohort.

Summary of the Ed.S. - Curriculum & Instruction Degree Process

To earn the Ed.S. degree, a student must complete each of the following steps:

  1. The student must develop a comprehensive plan of study with the Graduate Advisor.
  2. The student must complete all coursework included in the plan of study.
  3. The student must complete 90 clock hours of internship. 
  4. An Application for Graduation, signed by the student, Graduate Advisor, and Vice President for Graduate Studies, must be filed with the Graduate Office and the Records Office in the semester prior to the term in which the student intends to graduate.
  5. Students must pay the required graduation fee. All graduate candidates for graduation during an academic year – Summer (previous year) Fall/Winterim, and Spring – are encouraged to attend the commencement exercises which are held at the close of the Spring Semester. Graduate students must have all work completed and a degree conferred in order to participate in the ceremony. Students must notify the Vice President for Graduate Studies and the Director of Records if they choose not to participate. Students must pay the graduation fee whether or not they attend commencement.
  6. Specialist students must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better in specialist coursework in order to earn an Educational Specialist degree.

Transfer Students and Transfer Credit

A total of six (6) hours may be transferred into the Ed.S. program from other accredited Educational Specialist programs. These credits must have been earned within seven (7) years prior to entry into the Graduate Studies Program from another regionally accredited college or university.

Transfer credits must be approved by Graduate Admissions or Advising and the Director of Educational Administration and must have grades of A, B, S, CR, or P. Students may not take courses from other graduate programs while enrolled at Missouri Baptist without written approval from the Vice President for Graduate Studies. The total hours transferred to Missouri Baptist may not exceed six (6).

Directed Studies: Qualified students are permitted to engage in directed studies under graduate faculty supervision. Under this arrangement, students are enabled to explore subjects in depth, or examine new areas of study, beyond the opportunity afforded by the University’s curriculum. In some cases, catalog courses may be offered as directed studies. Graduate students may not earn more than six (6) credit hours of directed study in their master’s program unless special permission is received in writing from the Vice President for Graduate Affairs. Certain courses may not be taken by directed study, as specified in the course description. Directed study forms are available in the Records Office and approval must be obtained from the student’s Graduate Advisor, the instructor of the course, Dean, and Vice President for Graduate Affairs before the beginning of each term. The student and graduate faculty are expected to present the following items as part of the directed study: objectives, detailed description of the study, procedures for student-instructor interaction, method of evaluation, and anticipated resources needed for the study, or a course syllabus may be attached to the directed study form.

Grade RequirementsSpecialist-level graduate students must earn a grade of B or better in specialist-level courses in order to continue in the Educational Specialist program.

Research Requirements: All students pursuing the Educational Specialist Curriculum and Instruction track are required to take GRED 653CI  and GRED 673CI . Students will complete a 90 clock hour internship (EDUC 630 ) and demonstrate scholarship through the development and completion of a professional portfolio. The portfolio must be completed and scored before the degree is conferred.

Workshop Graduate Credit: No graduate credit earned in workshops or professional development seminars may be applied toward the Educational Specialist degree.

Credit for Prior Learning for Completion of National Board Certified Teachers (NBCT) Portfolio: Students applying for the Educational Specialist degree with a concentration in Curriculum and Instruction may be eligible to receive three (3) hours of advanced credit-for-prior learning for completing NBCT requirements. The Dean of the College of Education will review the substance of the NBCT portfolio content and determine whether it matches any current course content. There must be a clear correspondence between the content of the portfolio and an existing course in the Ed.S. program before credit is granted. Students must pay the regular credit-for-prior learning evaluation fees before credit is granted.

Educational Specialist - Superintendent

Mission Statement: The School of Education at Missouri Baptist University seeks to develop reflective, problem-solving, professional educators of excellence from a Christian perspective; to enhance the lives of students in the classroom intellectually, spiritually, physically, and socially; and to significantly influence students through the demonstrated integration of Christian faith and learning in the classroom, so that they may become positive change agents in a globally and culturally diverse society.

Overview: The Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) - Superintendent program is intended for K-Grade 12 educational professionals in public or private schools who are seeking administrative positions at the district level. The Superintendent program meets the competency requirements of the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (MoDESE) for certification as a School Superintendent. Individuals serving in Assistant Superintendent or Superintendent positions at public K-Grade 12 schools in the state of Missouri must be certified at the superintendent level. The Ed.S. - Superintendent program prepares aspiring superintendents to become effective leaders through the development of visionary, instructional, managerial, relational, and innovative leadership skills and competencies for the purpose of effectively serving within a diverse school community. Each Ed.S. - Superintendent degree candidate is required to develop a comprehensive plan of study indicating timelines and required courses with the Graduate Advisor. The worksheet for the plan of study is available in the Graduate Advisor’s office and must be completed and approved at the beginning of the student’s program. The plan of study should be reviewed periodically with a Graduate Advisor to ensure that the student is meeting desired academic goals.

Summary of the Ed.S. - Superintendent Degree Process

To earn the Ed.S. degree, a student must complete each of the following steps*:

  1. The student must develop a comprehensive plan of study with the Graduate Advisor once they have completed the application and admission process. Admission to the Ed.S. Superintendent program requires current Principal certification in the state of Missouri.
  2. The student must complete all coursework included in the plan of study.
  3. An Application for Graduation, signed by the student, Graduate Advisor, and Vice President for Graduate Studies, must be filed with the Graduate Office and the Records Office in the semester prior to the term in which the student intends to graduate.
  4. The student must complete and document 300 clock hours of approved superintendent level internship experiences.
  5. Students must pay the required graduation fee. All graduate candidates for graduation during an academic year – Fall, Winter Term, Spring, and Summer – are encouraged to attend the commencement exercises which are held at the close of the Spring Semester. Graduate students must have all work completed and a degree conferred or must be enrolled in all final courses to participate in the ceremony. Students must notify the Vice President for Graduate Studies and the Director of Records if they choose not to participate. Students must pay the graduation fee whether or not they attend commencement.
  6. All graduate students must have a 3.0 cumulative grade point average to graduate from the program.

*Upon program completion the aspiring superintendent/student must meet all requirements set forth by MoDESE and then apply to MoDESE for credentialing through the MoDESE web applications portal. Requirements can be dynamic and are mandated by MoDESE and not the university.

Transfer Students and Transfer Credit

A total of six (6) hours may be transferred into the Ed.S. - Superintendent program from other accredited Educational Specialist programs. These credits must have been earned within seven (7) years prior to entry into the current Graduate Studies Program from another regionally accredited college or university or completed prior at MBU.

Transfer credits must be approved by Graduate Admissions or Advising and the Associate Dean of the School of Educational Leadership and must have grades of A, B, S, CR, or P. Students may not take courses from other graduate programs while enrolled at Missouri Baptist without written approval from the Vice President for Graduate Affairs. The total hours transferred to Missouri Baptist may not exceed six (6).

Grade Requirements: Specialist-level graduate students must earn a grade of B or better in specialist-level courses to continue in the Educational Specialist - Superintendent program. Specialist students must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better in specialist coursework to earn an Educational Specialist - Superintendent degree.

Research Requirements: All students pursuing the Educational Specialist - Superintendent program are required to take GRED 653S  and GRED 673S . Students must complete the required 300 superintendent level internship hours during their program and demonstrate scholarship through the development and completion of a district level performance/research project.

Workshop Graduate Credit: No graduate credit earned in workshops or professional development seminars may be applied toward the Educational Specialist - Superintendent degree.

Exit Examination

Students in the Ed.S. - Superintendent program must complete an action research project prior to graduation. For certification at the superintendent level, DESE also requires students to pass the required Missouri Content Assessment (MoCA), Missouri Gateway Educator Assessment (MEGA) 059 - Superintendent. Students may register for the exam on the MEGA website: http://www.mo.nesinc.com/.

Note: For certification in the state of Missouri, the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (MoDESE) requires that each graduate of the Superintendent Educational Specialist program demonstrate basic competencies by achieving a passing score, as determined by the State Board of Education, for the Missouri Content Assessment (MoCA) MEGA 059 Superintendent.  MBU’s current program course requirements found in the University’s Graduate Bulletin and on the program Degree Plan Worksheet reflect DESE’s current requirements.  Students completing the Ed.S. - Superintendent program are strongly encouraged to readily: (a) take the MoCA assessment for Superintendent (059) and (b) apply for certification through the DESE web applications portal. Candidates who do not take and pass the current assessment(s) and/or do not apply for certification upon program completion may be impacted by future changes to certification requirements implemented by MoDESE, which may result in additional course or assessment requirements.

Master of Educational Administration - School Leader K-12

Overview

The Master of Educational Administration (MEA) is a 30-hour program that meets the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) requirements for certification as a K-12 building level administrator (school leader).  The MEA program is offered through two fluid delivery systems: face-to-face and online.  Students in the MEA program must complete 300 clock hours of internship in Missouri public or accredited private K-12 schools under the direction and counsel of practicing building administrators and Missouri Baptist University supervisors. The courses in the MEA K-12 program are designed so that students achieve competency as outlined in the Missouri Leader Development System (MLDS) domains and competencies and are aligned to the Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (PSEL). Verification for meeting these competencies must be documented by passing the MPEA  School Leaders Performance Assessment, a performance assessment designed for school leaders completing their clinical experience. Students must also pass Missouri Content Assessment (MoCA) 080 - Building-Level Administrator and have three years of documented and approved teaching experience prior to being recommended for certification as a principal.

Summary of the MEA - School Leader K-12 Degree Process

To earn the MEA degree, a student must complete each of the following steps:

  1. The student must develop a comprehensive plan of study with the Graduate Advisor.
  2. The student must complete all coursework included in the plan of study.
  3. The student must complete 300 clock hours of K-12 internship.
  4. An Application for Graduation, signed by the student, Graduate Advisor, and Vice President for Graduate Studies, must be filed with the Graduate Office and the Records Office in the semester prior to the term in which the student intends to graduate.
  5. Students must pay the required graduation fee. All graduate candidates for graduation during an academic year – Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer – are encouraged to attend the commencement exercises which are held at the close of the Spring Semester. Graduate students must have all work completed and a degree conferred or must be enrolled in all final courses to participate in the ceremony. Students must notify the Vice President for Graduate Studies and the Director of Records if they choose not to participate. Students must pay the graduation fee whether or not they attend commencement.
  6. All graduate students must have a 3.0 cumulative grade point average in order to graduate from the program.

Transfer Students and Transfer Credit

Transfer credits must have been earned within seven (7) years prior to entry into the Graduate Studies Program. Transfer credits must be approved by Graduate Admissions or Advising and the Dean or Program Director and must have grades of A, B, S, CR, or P. Students may not take courses from other graduate programs while enrolled at Missouri Baptist without written approval from the Vice President for Graduate Studies.

Students entering the Master of Educational Administration (MEA) may transfer up to nine (9) graduate credits into the Missouri Baptist University Graduate Studies Program from another regionally accredited college or university; however, students must complete a minimum of 24 credits toward the MEA degree at MBU. Students transferring in nine (9) graduate credits will need to complete an approved elective.

The University only recognizes institutions accredited by the current edition of Accredited Institutions of Postsecondary Education published by the CHEA and the American Council on Education.

Directed Studies: Qualified students are permitted to engage in directed studies under graduate faculty supervision. Under this arrangement, students are enabled to explore subjects in depth, or examine new areas of study, beyond the opportunity afforded by the University’s curriculum. In some cases, catalog courses may be offered as directed studies. Graduate students may not earn more than six (6) credit hours of directed study in their master’s program unless special permission is received in writing from the Vice President for Graduate Studies. Certain courses may not be taken by directed study, as specified in the course description. Directed study forms are available in the Records Office and approval must  be obtained from the student’s Graduate Advisor, the instructor of the course, Dean, and Vice President for Graduate Studies before the beginning of each term. The student and graduate faculty are expected to present the following items as part of the directed study: objectives, detailed description of the study, procedures for student-instructor interaction, method of evaluation, and anticipated resources needed for the study, or a course syllabus may be attached to the directed study form.

Exit Exam: While not required for graduation, students must pass the Missouri Content Assessment (MoCA) 080 - Building Level Administrator and the MPEA School Leaders Performance Assessment, a performance assessment designed for school leaders completing their clinical experience, in order to be eligible for certification.  The MPEA School Leaders Performance Assessment is embedded into EDAD 573 Capstone.  

Note: For certification in the state of Missouri, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) requires that each graduate of the Master of Educational Administration (MEA) program demonstrate basic competencies by achieving a passing score, as determined by the State Board of Education, for the Missouri Content Assessment (MoCA) 080 Building-Level Administrator.  MBU’s current program course requirements found in the University’s Graduate Bulletin and on the program Degree Plan Worksheet reflect DESE’s current requirements.  Students completing the MEA program are strongly encouraged to readily:(a) take the MoCA assessment for Building-Level Administrator (080) and (b) apply for certification through the DESE web applications  portal. Candidates who do not take and pass the current assessment and/or do not apply for certification upon program completion may be impacted by future changes to certification requirements implemented by DESE, which may result in additional course or assessment requirements.

Master of Educational Administration Degree Requirements: Candidates for School Leader (K-12) must have a minimum of three (3) years of successful teaching experience approved by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) for certification.

Master of Educational Administration - Special Education Director K-12

Overview

The Master of Educational Administration (MEA) is a 30-hour program that meets the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) requirements for certification as an elementary (K-8) or high school (7-12) building level administrator (school leader). The MEA program is offered through two fluid delivery systems: face-to-face and online. Students in the MEA program must complete 300 clock hours of internship in Missouri public or accredited private K-12 schools under the direction and counsel of practicing building administrators and Missouri Baptist University supervisors. The courses in the MEA K-12 program are designed so that students achieve competency as outlined in the Missouri Leader Development System (MLDS) domains and competencies and are aligned to the Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (PSEL). Verification for meeting these standards must be documented by passing the MPEA School Leaders Performance Assessment, a performance assessment designed for school leaders completing their clinical experience. Students must also pass Missouri Content Assessment (MoCA) 080 - Building-Level Administrator and have three years of documented and approved teaching experience prior to being recommended for certification as a principal.

Summary of the Master’s Degree Process

To earn the MEA degree, a student must complete each of the following steps:

  1. The student must develop a comprehensive plan of study with the Graduate Advisor.
  2. The student must complete all coursework included in the plan of study.
  3. The student must complete 300 clock hours of K-12 internship.
  4. An Application for Graduation, signed by the student, Graduate Advisor, and Vice President for Graduate Studies, must be filed with the Graduate Office and the Records Office in the semester prior to the term in which the student intends to graduate.
  5. Students must pay the required graduation fee. All graduate candidates for graduation during an academic year – Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer – are encouraged to attend the commencement exercises which are held at the close of the Spring Semester. Graduate students must have all work completed and a degree conferred or must be enrolled in all final courses to participate in the ceremony. Students must notify the Vice President for Graduate Studies and the Director of Records if they choose not to participate. Students must pay the graduation fee whether or not they attend commencement.
  6. All graduate students must have a 3.0 cumulative grade point average in order to graduate from the program.

Transfer Students and Transfer Credit

Transfer credits must have been earned within seven (7) years prior to entry into the Graduate Studies Program. Transfer credits must be approved by Graduate Admissions or Advising and the Division Dean or Program Director and must have grades of A, B, S, CR, or P. Students may not take courses from other graduate programs while enrolled at Missouri Baptist without written approval from the Vice President for Graduate Studies.

Students entering the Master of Educational Administration (MEA) may transfer up to nine (9) graduate credits into the Missouri Baptist University Graduate Studies Program from another regionally accredited college or university; however, students must complete a minimum of 24 credits toward the MEA degree at MBU. Students transferring in nine (9) graduate credits will need to complete an approved elective unless they are pursuing Special Education Director certification with the MEA.

The University only recognizes institutions accredited by the current edition of Accredited Institutions of Postsecondary Education published by the CHEA and the American Council on Education.

Directed Studies: Qualified students are permitted to engage in directed studies under graduate faculty supervision. Under this arrangement, students are enabled to explore subjects in depth, or examine new areas of study, beyond the opportunity afforded by the University’s curriculum. In some cases, catalog courses may be offered as directed studies. Graduate students may not earn more than six (6) credit hours of directed study in their master’s program unless special permission is received in writing from the Vice President for Graduate Studies. Certain courses may not be taken by directed study, as specified in the course description. Directed study forms are available in the Records Office and approval must be obtained from the student’s Graduate Advisor, the instructor of the course, Dean, and Vice President for Graduate Studies before the beginning of each term. The student and graduate faculty are expected to present the following items as part of the directed study: objectives, detailed description of the study, procedures for student-instructor interaction, method of evaluation, and anticipated resources needed for the study, or a course syllabus may be attached to the directed study form.

Exit Exam: While not required for graduation, students must pass Missouri Content Assessment (MoCA) 080 - Building Level Administrator and the MPEA School Leaders Performance Assessment, a performance assessment designed for school leaders completing their clinical experience, in order to be eligible for certification.The MPEA School Leaders Performance Assessment is embedded into EDAD 573 Capstone.  

Note: For certification in the state of Missouri, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) requires that each graduate of the Master of Educational Administration (MEA) program demonstrate basic competencies by achieving a passing score, as determined by the State Board of Education, for the Missouri Content Assessment (MoCA) 080 Building-Level Administrator. MBU’s current program course requirements found in the University’s Graduate Bulletin and on the program Degree Plan Worksheet reflect DESE’s current requirements. Students completing the MEA program are strongly encouraged to readily: (a) take the MoCA assessment for Building-Level Administrator (080) and (b) apply for certification through the DESE web applications portal. Candidates who do not take and pass the current assessment and/or do not apply for certification upon program completion may be impacted by future changes to certification requirements implemented by DESE, which may result in additional course or assessment requirements. 

Special Education Director K-12 Degree Requirements: Candidates for Special Education Director (K-12) must have a minimum of two (2) years special education or student services experience (elementary counselor, secondary counselor, school psychological examiner, school psychologist, speech pathologist, adult education supervisor, career education counselor, or career education placement coordinator) approved by DESE for certification.

Master of Educational Technology

Mission Statement: The School of Education at Missouri Baptist University seeks to develop reflective, problem-solving, professional educators of excellence from a Christian perspective; to enhance the lives of students in the classroom intellectually, spiritually, physically, and socially; and to significantly influence students through the demonstrated integration of Christian faith and learning in the classroom, so that they may become positive change agents in a globally and culturally diverse society.

Overview

The Master of Educational Technology (MET) is a 30-hour degree program designed for educators interested in learning more about the integration of new technologies to enhance the teaching and learning process. This program is designed for K-12 educators, technical and community college instructors, administrators, library media specialists, and technology leaders who wish to keep abreast of new innovations in educational technology. Emerging technologies, digital citizenship, differentiating instruction with technology resources, and online collaboration are just a few of the foundational components of the MET program. An interactive approach is used in all MET courses. The program of study is aligned with the ISTE International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Standards for Educators. To demonstrate competency in the ISTE Standards for Educators, learners will create an ePortfolio to demonstrate mastery of each of the seven standards and their indicators. In addition, learners will complete an action research project. The MET program is offered as an Online Program (OLP) and students are not required to hold teacher certification to obtain the MET degree. No state certification will be obtained through the completion of the MET degree.

Summary of the MET Degree Process

To earn the MET degree, a student must complete each of the following steps:

  1. The student must develop a comprehensive plan of study with the Graduate Advisor.
  2. The student must complete all coursework included in the plan of study.
  3. The student must complete a project/internship.
  4. An Application for Graduation, signed by the student, Graduate Advisor, and Vice President for Graduate Studies, must be filed with the Graduate Office and the Records Office in the semester prior to the term in which the student intends to graduate.
  5. Students must pay the required graduation fee. All graduate candidates for graduation during an academic year – Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer – are encouraged to attend the commencement exercises which are held at the close of the Spring Semester. Graduate students must have all work completed and a degree conferred or must be enrolled in all final courses to participate in the ceremony. Students must notify the Vice President for Graduate Studies and the Director of Records if they choose not to participate. Students must pay the graduation fee whether or not they attend commencement.
  6. All graduate students must have a 3.0 cumulative grade point average in order to graduate from the program.

Transfer Students and Transfer Credit

Transfer credits must have been earned within seven (7) years prior to entry into the Graduate Studies Program. Transfer credits must be approved by the Graduate Advisor and the Dean or Program Director and must have grades of A, B, S, CR, or P. Students may not take courses from other graduate programs while enrolled at Missouri Baptist without written approval from the Vice President for Graduate Affairs.

Students entering the Master of Educational Technology (MET) degree program may transfer up to six (6) graduate credits into the Missouri Baptist University Graduate Studies Program from another regionally accredited college or university. The total hours transferred to Missouri Baptist, including courses from other programs while enrolled, may not exceed six (6) hours.

The University only recognizes institutions accredited by the current edition of Accredited Institutions of Postsecondary Education published by the CHEA and the American Council on Education.

Directed Studies: Qualified students are permitted to engage in directed studies under graduate faculty supervision. Under this arrangement, students are enabled to explore subjects in depth, or examine new areas of study, beyond the opportunity afforded by the University’s curriculum. In some cases, catalog courses may be offered as directed studies. Graduate students may not earn more than six (6) credit hours of directed study in their master’s program unless special permission is received in writing from the Vice President for Graduate Studies. Certain courses may not be taken by directed study, as specified in the course description. Directed study forms are available in the Records Office and approval must be obtained from the student’s Graduate Advisor, the instructor of the course, Dean, and Vice President for Graduate Studies before the beginning of each term. The student and graduate faculty are expected to present the following items as part of the directed study: objectives, detailed description of  the study, procedures for student-instructor interaction, method of evaluation, and anticipated resources needed for the study, or a course syllabus may be attached to the directed study form.

Exit Exam: The MET degree does not require an exit exam.

Master of Science in Education - Curriculum & Instruction

Mission Statement: The School of Education at Missouri Baptist University seeks to develop reflective, problem-solving, professional educators of excellence from a Christian perspective; to enhance the lives of students in the classroom intellectually, spiritually, physically, and socially; and to significantly influence students through the demonstrated integration of Christian faith and learning in the classroom, so that they may become positive change agents in a globally and culturally diverse society.

Overview

The Master of Science in Education (MSE) degree in Curriculum and Instruction offers students the opportunity to enhance not only their comprehension and understanding of curriculum and instruction, but also, to develop the professional technological skills required for success in today’s educational environment. Many classes are offered face-to-face as well as online. Students pursuing the MSE in Curriculum and Instruction will have the option of completing the program online or through a hybrid approach that blends both online and classroom instruction.

Students who have previously earned a Master of Science in Education: Curriculum and Instruction degree from Missouri Baptist University may not pursue a subsequent Master of Arts in Teaching degree. Students who have previously earned a Master of Arts in Teaching degree from Missouri Baptist University may not pursue a subsequent Master of Science in Education: Curriculum and Instruction degree. Students who have earned a Master’s Degree in Education from another college or university will have their transcript evaluated on a course by course basis to determine eligibility for a subsequent degree at Missouri Baptist University.

Summary of the MSE - Curriculum & Instruction Degree Process

To earn the MSE degree, a student must complete each of the following steps:

  1. The student must develop a comprehensive plan of study with the Graduate Advisor.
  2. The student must complete all coursework included in the plan of study.
  3. An Application for Graduation, signed by the student, Graduate Advisor, and Vice President for Graduate Studies, must be filed with the Graduate Office and the Records Office in the semester prior to the term in which the student intends to graduate.
  4. Students must pay the required graduation fee. All graduate candidates for graduation during an academic year – Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer – are encouraged to attend the commencement exercises which are held at the close of the Spring Semester. Graduate students must have all work completed and a degree conferred or must be enrolled in all final courses to participate in the ceremony. Students must notify the Vice President for Graduate Studies and the Director of Records if they choose not to participate. Students must pay the graduation fee whether or not they attend commencement.
  5. All graduate students must have a 3.0 cumulative grade point average in order to graduate from the program.

Transfer Students and Transfer Credit

Transfer credits must have been earned within seven (7) years prior to entry into the Graduate Studies Program. Transfer credits must be approved by Graduate Admissions or Advising and the Dean or Program Director and must have grades of A, B, S, CR, or P. Students may not take courses from other graduate programs while enrolled at Missouri Baptist without written approval from the Vice President for Graduate Studies.

Students entering the Master of Science in Education (MSE) degree program may transfer up to six (6) graduate credits into the Missouri Baptist University Graduate Studies Program from another regionally accredited college or university. The total hours transferred to Missouri Baptist, including courses from other programs while enrolled, may not exceed six (6) hours.

The University only recognizes institutions accredited by the current edition of Accredited Institutions of Postsecondary Education published by the CHEA and the American Council on Education.

Directed Studies

Qualified students are permitted to engage in directed studies under graduate faculty supervision. Under this arrangement, students are enabled to explore subjects in depth, or examine new areas of study, beyond the opportunity afforded by the University’s curriculum. In some cases, catalog courses may be offered as directed studies. Graduate students may not earn more than six (6) credit hours of directed study in their master’s program unless special permission is received in writing from the Vice President for Graduate Studies. Certain courses may not be taken by directed study, as specified in the course description.

Directed study forms are available in the Records Office and approval must be obtained from the student’s Graduate Advisor, the instructor of the course, Dean, and Vice President for Graduate Studies before the beginning of each term. The student and graduate faculty are expected to present the following items as part of the directed study: objectives, detailed description of the study, procedures for student-instructor interaction, method of evaluation, and anticipated resources needed for the study, or a course syllabus may be attached to the directed study form.

Exit Exam: The MSE degree does not require an exit exam.

Master of Science in Higher Education Leadership

Mission Statement: The online Master of Science in Higher Education Leadership (MSHL) is designed to prepare professionals working in middle-management positions in colleges, universities, and other postsecondary institutions with the foundational scholarship, education, and experience needed to enhance their career in this dynamic and growing field. Students who pursue graduate work in the field of higher education come from diverse educational backgrounds, but all have the same goal of building a career in leadership positions at the collegiate level:  student affairs, academic affairs, fundraising, admissions, financial aid, athletics, residential life, advising services, and more.

Graduate Certificate in Educational Technology for K-12 Schools

This certificate can be completed as a stand-alone credential or as an addition to other degree programs offered by MBU’s School of Education. All courses in the certificate programs are offered online in an 8-week format. Each certificate can be completed in as little as two semesters of continuous enrollment. This certificate signifies that students have a strong foundation in theories and practices of technology integration in K-12 educational settings. All courses in this program are aligned with the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Standards for Educators.

Up to six (6) credit hours completed as part of the Graduate Certificate in Teaching Online may be applied to a Master of Educational Technology degree.

Bachelor’s degree is required. Teacher certification is recommended but not required. 

Graduate Certificate in Teaching Online

This certificate can be completed as a stand-alone credential or as an addition to other degree programs offered by MBU’s School of Education. All courses in the certificate programs are offered online in an 8-week format. Each certificate can be completed in as little as two semesters of continuous enrollment. This certificate focuses on developing key skills and strategies for teaching in online environments across all educational levels and provides hands-on experience with the development of instructional content and learning activities within a learning management system (LMS). All courses in this program are aligned with the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Standards for Educators.

Up to six (6) credit hours completed as part of the Graduate Certificate in Teaching Online may be applied to a Master of Educational Technology degree.

Bachelor’s degree required. Teacher certification is recommended but not required. 

Professional Elective Program (PEP)

The Professional Elective Program (PEP) program seeks to establish a collaborative school/district culture where teamwork leads to increased student motivation and the improvement of student academic performance. Missouri Baptist University supports schools/districts undertaking PEP planning through the awarding of graduate credit for successful completion of PEP activities approved by the school/district. Courses are designed as a natural outgrowth of teacher collaboration in planning, developing, and implementing learning strategies, products, and assessments of student learning.

The outcome of PEP collaboration involves some type of school improvement project; copies of a PEP school improvement project, along with the log record showing time involved, will be evaluated by a university-approved instructor.

Programs of Study

Specific course requirements can be found on the corresponding program page.

Doctor of Education
Educational Specialist
Master
Graduate Certificate
Post-Baccalaureate Certification