Skip to main content
Student studying with her computer

Graduate Program Educator Practices Program (MEd or CAGS)

Enhance Your Teaching Expertise in the Educator Practices MEd or CAGS Programs

Advance your professional practices by earning a Master of Education degree (MED) or a post-master’s Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in education through the Educator Practices Programs at Southern New Hampshire University. These part-time graduate programs are designed for educators working in the field and are centered on excellence in teaching and promoting intellectual development, professional empowerment and social responsibility in a supportive environment.

Graduate courses are taught through a blended format that includes both synchronous and asynchronous experiences. These courses are taught by faculty members who are known for their expertise in a variety of professional positions in the field of education. Each course experience reminds you of your professional strengths, refines your professional practices, and renews your perspective in the field. The program has you engage in and explore content across our five (5) Learning Strands – Curriculum Design/Delivery, Technology Integration, Assessment, Teacher Leadership, and Learner Development. This program requires you having access to learners.  The program content supports classroom teachers, special educators, para-educators, interventionists, instructional coaches, educational trainers, and other education-related positions.

Not available for international students.

See Yourself Succeed in SNHU’s Educator Practices Programs

In the Educator Practices Programs, the constructivist philosophy allows students the flexibility to create an area of focus and develop greater expertise at any level, from elementary to adult learners, through application-based study. Program instructors provide the most current and effective research and practice for students, who may immediately apply them to their learning environments and school needs. This individualization allows students to match the program's content to their learner-specific needs and cultures.

All courses and program activities occur in a cohort model, where students work together over the entire program experience. The networking and collegial support for ensuring ongoing culture-specific change and improvement often continues even after the graduate degree or certificate is completed. An Action Research Practicum replaces the traditional graduate thesis for Master of Education students.

Six transfer credits are allowed for the MEd, if they are pre-approved.

The Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS)

The Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study requires a student to have already earned a master's degree from an accredited institution before applying for a CAGS. Thirty-one credits are required and completed from the Core Curriculum. Within each course, CAGS students design advanced study opportunities related to a sub-topic of their choice. This study promotes an individualized opportunity for each student to dive deeper into the research of their topic and develop opportunities for integrating that new knowledge into their professional setting. Three transfer credits are allowed for the CAGS, if they are pre-approved. 

As a private, nonprofit university, SNHU has one mission - to help you see yourself succeed. The benefits of enrolling in the  Educator Practices Programs at SNHU include:

  • Convenience. The blended model allows you to pursue your degree while still meeting your professional responsibilities.
  • Supportive community. We have a deep understanding of how adults learn best, and we know all of our students personally. Our cohort model allows you to learn with colleagues and peers.
  • Relevance. All course material and assignments apply directly to your professional practices. An action research project serves as the capstone in place of a traditional thesis for Master of Education students.
  • Affordability. SNHU is one of the most affordable private, nonprofit universities in New Hampshire and the region.
  • Constructivist classrooms. Our instructors design the course experience so that it begins with your experiences and builds toward exceptional practice in a collaborative manner.
  • Impact. The action research project enables you to use your classroom as a laboratory of educational innovation.

Admission Requirements

Acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year. To apply, submit the following requirements:

  •  Application
  • Official College Transcripts
    • Undergraduate and Graduate transcripts required for MEd
    • Graduate transcripts required for CAGS
  • Resume

Careers & Outcomes

Open yourself to a transformative experience by earning your Master of Education degree or Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study from the Educator Practices Program. Refine your educational practices by connecting your academic work to the learners in your professional environment. You’ll also use your strengths as a professional to design ways to have a positive impact on your school or professional setting. 

Graduate Tuition

Earning your degree is a smart choice to advance your career, and investing in an affordable program increases your ROI. We keep our costs low to remove barriers between you and your goals.

University Accreditation

New England Commission of Higher Education Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) as well as several other accrediting bodies.

Related Articles

A student using her laptop to earn a university degree with an icon of a school building with a clock to the left

Is a University Degree Worth It?

A university degree can prepare you for entry-level roles and a new career or help you advance in your current job. Thanks to the flexibility provided by the different types of programs and degree options available, you can often balance work and personal responsibilities with your coursework.
A master’s student sitting on the couch with a laptop and books, considering how long it will take her to finish her degree program.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Master's Degree?

If you’re mapping out your career goals, a master’s degree may be a critical step to help you get where you want to be. You’ll want to consider how and when the credential can help you, how long it'll take to obtain and what to expect.
Three first-year college students sitting around a table and doing homework.

How to Survive High School and Prepare for College

Getting through high school and preparing for what comes next can be a challenge. Seeking support and exploring your options can help you to survive high school and get ready for college. Discover tips to help you set yourself up for success in high school, college and beyond.