Curriculum and Instruction - Creative Initiatives in Teacher Education Specialization (CITE) (Hybrid), M.Ed.

At a Glance

Leads to Teacher License?

Yes

Avg. Duration

2 years (6 consecutive semesters)

Start Term

Fall

Required Credits

Course Load

Part-time

Location

Hybrid (courses are offered in-person and online)

Accreditation

�˻�ֱ�� State Department of Education

Application Deadline

June 3, 2025

Program Overview

Created in collaboration with the �˻�ֱ�� State Department of Education (MSDE), the Creative Initiatives in Teacher Education (CITE) is a graduate-level teacher preparation program designed for conditionally certified teachers, paraeducators and school-based professionals seeking to earn initial elementary teaching certification while maintaining school-based employment. Successful program completion results in a Master's of Education (M.Ed.) degree and eligibility for �˻�ֱ�� State Department of Education (MSDE) Initial Certification in Elementary Education, grades 1 through 6.

The two-year CITE program consists of coursework provided over five semesters in a blended learning model of in-person and online instruction. Candidates complete a MSDE required internship as part of their current employment as a school-based professional or conditionally hired teacher.

CITE is designed as a cohort program that allows members to be part of a diverse collaborative professional learning community that relies on one another for support and professional development, like that of a highly functioning team in an elementary school.

Key Program Components

A blended learning coursework model and resident teacher experience
Inclusion of conditionally hired teachers and paraeducators interested in elementary-level classroom instruction
Opportunities for professional growth in a collaborative teaching community
Support from an in-school mentor teacher, the program director and instructional faculty
Participation in a cohort experience with other participants

94%

graduation rate

Learning Goals

Apply research-based strategies to develop meaningful connections with students and create and maintain a positive learning environment
Master research-based teaching techniques that support content learning, foster social development and enhance students' emotional growth
Design instruction that aligns with curriculum indicators and expectations including technology integration

�˻�ֱ�� to Apply

Admissions information and the application for this program can be found on the University Graduate Admissions website. Additionally, all applicants to a teacher certification program must review the Foundational Competencies (FC) and Model Code of Ethics for Educators (MCEE) Introduction and submit an acknowledgment survey. A PDF copy of the completed acknowledgment must be uploaded to the . As part of your application package, you must also submit:

Three professional recommendations including one from current principal/supervisor
A CV/resume outlining experiences working with children and
Demonstrate completion of MSDE-required prerequisite courses for credit in math, English, science and social sciences

Please also refer to our for information on how to apply to this program.

97%

hiring rate within �˻�ֱ�� school districts

Program Faculty