Teaching & Learning Overview

Transform your classroom into a learning laboratory to improve your teaching skills under the guidance of veteran educators through our Teaching and Learning Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree program. 

Designed with current, active teachers in mind, this program allows you to use your own classroom as a learning laboratory to deepen your teaching skills. You will learn to deliver a toolbox of effective instructional and assessment strategies that engage, motivate and support all students. The program focuses on providing culturally sustaining pedagogy that is responsive to the many needs of today’s learners. Throughout the program, you will examine 21st-century teaching and learning practices, marked by equity, informed by research and concerned about the learning of every student.

Female stands in front of classroom instruction group of students

What Makes JWU’s Master of Education Unique?

Aligned to National Board Standards, the program is designed to meet the growth and knowledge needs of the experienced teacher.

The program emphasizes the integration of theory, research and application. Key features include integration and experiential learning.

Emphasis on habits of reflection, responsiveness and persistence to focus on student access, learning needs, well-being and achievement.

JWU Alumni may be eligible to receive a 25% tuition discount through the Wildcat Alumnia Scholarship.

Course Sequence

Following an introduction which examines fundamental principles, beliefs and issues in teaching and learning, the course sequence then covers:

  • Knowing students as individuals and how students’ culture, backgrounds, strengths and challenges affect teaching and learning.
  • Identifying how standards support and inform student learning and assist in the development of high-impact curriculum.
  • Exploring major issues and trends in assessment, and the impact of assessment on teaching and learning.
  • Evaluating family, mental health, economic and societal issues. Each course participant takes a deep dive into one issue to determine impacts on students and learning
  • A final course that results in a capstone project which connects and synthesizes learning and central themes from the program and how these impact the teacher as a learner, collaborator and community leader.

Program Structure

This program is designed with the most important thing: setting you up for success to have the expertise of a seasoned teacher.

  • Complete the program in four semesters over two academic years.
  • Once-a-week evening course convenient for working professionals.
  • Two courses each semester for a total of eight courses or 36 graduate credits.
  • Cohort program supporting a professional learning community moving together through the required course sequence.
  • Fully on-ground program conveniently located on the Johnson & Wales Harborside campus with free parking available.

Sample Teaching and Learning Courses

  • Exploration of Teaching and Learning
  • Culturally Responsive Teaching
  • Standards and Curriculum Development
  • Instructional Strategies and Resources
  • Assessment and Evaluation in Education
  • Embedding Formative Assessment in Teaching Practices
  • Supporting Learners in a Challenging World
  • Teaching: A Call to Action

Visit the JWU Catalog for a full course listing

Career Possibilities

Advancement opportunities include:

  • Salary advancement and advanced teaching certificate
  • Position as a school principal
  • Director positions including curriculum and special education
  • Coaching positions in content areas

Some professions may require additional study, background checks, certifications, licenses, exams and/or experience as required qualifications for employment. Students are responsible for verifying that they can meet the employment requirements of potential employers.

In addition to classes, free elective credit can be applied to a number of options such as Directed Experiential Education (DEE), internship, minor or study abroad. You are encouraged to contact an advisor before scheduling free elective credits.

Jalyn Alves ’25 M.Ed. teaches student

Why Jalyn Alves ’25 Chose JWU’s M.Ed.


Jalyn Alves ’25 M.Ed. is applying her hands-on education from JWU to the kindergarten classes she teaches. From project-based learning to support and guidance from her professors, Alves is glad she chose JWU for her graduate degree in education. “I looked for a program that didn’t box me into becoming a math coach or reading coach; I wanted something broader,” she shares. “Also, the importance of hands-on activities. Everything that we learn, I use in my classroom.”

Read more about Alves and JWU’s graduate degrees:

Financial Assistance

Visit our Graduate Financial Aid page to learn about the financial aid process, tuition and fees, loan options and how to connect with your personal Financial Planner.

Faculty Contact

Cynthia Senenko, M.Ed.
Director of Teacher Education Programs
401-598-4846
Email