Secondary Education [Graduate]

General Information

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 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 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 20 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;
• MELAB with a minimum score of 90;
• 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.

Financial Assistance

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.

Graduate Program Requirements

• The Degree of MEd
    
• The Degree of MEd with Specialization in Technology in Education
    
• The Degrees of EdD and PhD
    

Graduate Courses

Graduate courses can be found in Course Listings , under the subject heading Secondary Education (EDSE, EDES, and EDCT).