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I've been hearing a lot about graduate degrees lately but I'm not exactly sure what they entail. Can someone explain the concept of a graduate degree and how it differs from an undergraduate degree?

A graduate degree is an advanced level of education that you can pursue after completing your undergraduate degree (also known as a bachelor's degree). Graduate degrees build upon the knowledge and skills acquired during your undergraduate studies and allow you to specialize in a particular field of study. There are two main types of graduate degrees: master's degrees and doctoral degrees.

A master's degree typically takes 1-2 years to complete and offers more in-depth study in a specific area, such as a Master of Science (MS), Master of Arts (MA), Master of Business Administration (MBA), or Master of Fine Arts (MFA). These degrees are designed to help you gain advanced skills or expand your knowledge in your chosen field, which can lead to career advancement or increased earning potential.

A doctoral degree, such as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Doctor of Education (EdD), or Doctor of Medicine (MD), takes longer to complete, usually around 5-7 years. It is the highest level of academic degree and is focused on original research, advanced study, and academic expertise in a specific area. To earn a doctoral degree, you'll be required to complete extensive research, write a dissertation or thesis, and often defend your findings in front of a faculty committee.

The key difference between an undergraduate and graduate degree lies in the depth and complexity of the coursework, with graduate degrees delving deeper into the subject matter and often involving more research and critical thinking. Additionally, graduate degrees provide specialized knowledge and skills, which can be beneficial for career advancement or a transition to a different field.

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Online Master's in Education

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If you have program-specific questions, please contact OEL Associate Director Nicole Barone . 

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Today’s education landscape needs leaders like you — dynamic educators and innovators committed to making sustainable and scalable change for all students by building on your professional experience in PreK–12 classrooms and districts; on college and university campuses; or in philanthropies, nonprofits, policy organizations, and ed-tech initiatives.

That’s why the Harvard Graduate School of Education launched an online Master's in Education Leadership, a two-year, part-time Ed.M. program with Higher Education and PreK-12 pathways specifically designed for working education professionals who bring at least seven years of relevant or transferrable work experience. The program will strengthen the invaluable skills you’ve already developed and give you the tools to propel yourself to new leadership opportunities and to even greater impact.

“Skilled leadership is essential to creating opportunity and overcoming the longstanding inequities that create barriers to success. At HGSE, we are committed to helping you meet today’s complex challenges by becoming the type of leader education needs.” Bridget Long Dean and Saris Professor of Education and Economics Harvard Graduate School of Education

A New Option for Experienced Educators

The online Master's in Education Leadership from HGSE consists of a diverse cohort of professionals like you — leaders who are advancing in their careers, and who bring important perspectives grounded in real-world challenges. Our program is conducted almost exclusively online — except for one short on-campus experience, where you'll meet your cohort in person and build community prior to the start of the first fall semester.

The program offers a distinctive Harvard experience — including deep engagement and interaction with Harvard faculty and talented peers, as well as a lifelong professional network — within an intentionally designed curriculum and robust opportunities for mentorship and coaching. The program is career-embedded — so you can immediately apply what you are learning, in real time, to the work you are doing on the ground. 

Two Pathways: Higher Education and PreK–12

In the online Master’s in Education Leadership, you will choose between two Professional Pathways — Higher Education or PreK–12 — that align with the area of practice or the student community in which your work will make an impact. Students interested in advancing into senior leadership roles in colleges and universities, or in organizations that impact higher education, should study in the Higher Education Pathway . Students who want to do change-making work within the education ecosystem on behalf of students from early childhood to secondary education levels should select the PreK–12 Pathway .

Our prescribed curriculum is intentionally designed to meet your professional needs. It is anchored in both foundational knowledge and core competencies in education leadership related to the U.S. education system. You will also complete pathway-specific courses to advance your leadership in higher education or preK–12 education, as well as the Foundations courses. You will also have the opportunity to select courses from a small subset of electives. A minimum of 42 credits are required to graduate with an Ed.M. degree from HGSE.

The main elements of the curriculum are: 

Foundations Courses

Throughout the two-year program, you will participate in Foundations courses in four areas: How People Learn, Leading Change, Evidence, and Equity and Opportunity. Through the Foundations, you’ll build core skills central to the profession of education.

• The online Ed.M. program commences with How People Learn, which runs online June–July and requires a time commitment of 12–15 hours per week.  
• Additional Foundations learning goals and experiences tied to Leading Change and Equity and Opportunity will be incorporated into other required courses during your two-year program.

Professional Pathways

All students will choose between the Higher Education and PreK–12 Pathways. Throughout the program, you will take both cross-pathway courses and pathway-specific courses. Cross-pathway courses will allow you to develop leadership skills that are important across sectors, as well as have discussions about how higher education and preK–12 can work more effectively together. Cross-pathway courses include:

• Real Talk: The Art and Practice of Communications 
• Strategic Finance for Nonprofit Leaders

Pathway-specific courses are directed to the knowledge and skills important for leadership in the Pathway professional setting. 

Elective Coursework

Students will have the opportunity to choose from a curated list of electives during the optional January terms, and during the fall and spring of their second year. Sample elective courses: 

• Law and Higher Education
• Leading a School through Challenge and Crisis   
• Race, Equity, and Leadership 
• Teaching Exceptional Learners in Inclusive Classrooms 
• Why Can’t Higher Education Change? 
• Writing Workshop   

Note: Though some courses may include comparative and international examples, applicants should expect a focus on leadership within U.S. domestic educational institutions and systems. 

Leadership Core Competencies

To help you manage, lead, and implement change in complex organizations, our curriculum explores the core leadership competencies that you'll need to elevate your skills, knowledge, and expertise, wherever you are in your career. Throughout your coursework, you will strengthen your ability to:

• Lead change and think strategically 
• Foster productive organizational conditions 
• Navigate politics and practice political inclusion
• Communicate effectively 
• Cultivate self-development and team professional development skills 

Higher Education Pathway

All students will choose between the Higher Education and PreK–12 Pathways. The Higher Education Pathway prepares you to be a dynamic leader in a diverse range of postsecondary education contexts. It is designed to increase your knowledge of the practices, policies, processes, challenges, and opportunities in American postsecondary education. You will enhance your repertoire of strategies and management skills for tackling critical issues and introducing change — while preparing you to advance in your current career or move into other important leadership roles in higher education.  

Sample courses for the Higher Education Pathway: 

• Creating the Future of American Postsecondary Education 
• Higher Education Leadership & Governance 
• Student Affairs in Higher Education: Theory-Driven Practices to Help Students Thrive 

You will also have the opportunity to engage with accomplished leaders through HGSE’s unique President-in-Residence program. 

Students interested in the Higher Education Pathway currently hold administrative and mid-level leadership roles: 

• Colleges and universities, including in academic affairs, student affairs, admissions and enrollment management, advancement, and institutional research
• Nonprofit education organizations
• State and federal government agencies 
• Policy organizations focused on higher education

PreK–12 Pathway

All students will choose between the Higher Education and PreK–12 Pathways. The PreK–12 Pathway equips you to advance your leadership across the preK–12 landscape, including in such positions as teacher leader, principal, afterschool director, education agency representative, education nonprofit/philanthropic leader, or education entrepreneur.  

Sample courses for the PreK–12 Pathway: 

• Strategic Leadership in the PreK–12 Ecosystem 
• Creating Conditions for Effective School, Family, and Community Partnerships 
• Leading Learning

Students interested in the PreK-12 Pathway currently hold administrative and mid-level leadership roles in:

• PreK–12 schools, including as principals, assistant principals, and department heads
• Nonprofit education organizations (I.e., foundations, advocacy organizations, technical assistant organizations).
• Policy organizations focused on preK–12 education 

Projected Time Commitment

Courses combine synchronous meetings and asynchronous work and assignments. Live or synchronous aspects of required courses will occur on weekdays (Monday–Friday) between 6 and 9 p.m. ET . Some elective courses, outside the required curriculum, may be offered at alternative times. On average, this degree requires 12 to 18 hours of work per week, though the weekly commitment will vary by term, courses taken, and students' own work styles. Students can expect to spend approximately five to seven hours per week in synchronous online class sessions with faculty members and classmates. The remaining hours will be spent working independently on asynchronous class preparation, in self-scheduled small-group work with other students or working on assignments. 

Weekly Time Estimate

To complete the online Ed.M. in Education Leadership, students must complete 42 total credit hours of coursework over the two-year program. While the weekly time commitment varies, the graphic below provides a snapshot of the estimated weekly time commitment students may experience during the fall and spring semesters, when they will typically take 8 credits, the equivalent of two courses . 

Synchronous

Includes live, scheduled sessions with faculty members and other students.

Asynchronous

Self-paced activities, discussion posts, and other course-related work.

Assignments

Readings, projects, papers, research, etc.

Total Estimated Weekly Hours

Hours reflect estimates and vary by term, course, and student work style.

Occurs between Monday-Friday, according to a specific schedule.

Asynchronous work and assignments will have clear deadlines or milestones, but students can set their own schedules to complete this work. Note that there may be days or weeks during the semester that are busier than average, requiring more than the estimated time shown.

Program Faculty

The faculty co-chair for the Higher Education Pathway is Francesca Purcell . The faculty co-chair for the PreK–12 Pathway is Irvin Scott .

Faculty Co-Chairs

Francesca Purcell

Francesca Purcell is a specialist in higher education policy and practice, with expertise on topics including college completion, student transfer, and developmental education.

Irvin Leon Scott

A former teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, chief academic officer, and foundation leader, Irvin Scott's focus is on education leadership and faith-based education.

James P. Honan

Karen L. Mapp

Timothy Patrick McCarthy

Mary Grassa O'Neill

Alexis Redding

On-Campus Experience

Prior to kicking off your first fall semester, you will participate in the On-Campus Institute, an immersive experience on the HGSE campus in Cambridge. This will provide the opportunity to not only form deep relationships with your cohort, but also learn together with the faculty and advisers with whom you will spend two years. The immersive residential experience is a core component to the two-year degree program that is required of all students in the program. 

Over several days in late July and/or early August, you and your fellow peers will discuss your professional experiences and examine some of the persistent challenges in your organizations. You will immerse yourself in rich exercises and community building, set expectations of what it means to be in a rigorous HGSE degree program, and set intentions for yourself, your cohort, and your course of study. 

Career Pathways

The Master's in Education Leadership Program prepares you to advance to a senior leadership role in a variety of career pathways, including:

• Academic affairs 
• Admissions and financial aid
• Development
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Institutional research
• Student affairs

PreK-12 Pathway

• Education entrepreneur
• Executive director for an education nonprofit
• Principal* or head of school 
• Program officer for a foundation 
• School department head
• School designer and developer
• School district or network leader
• Teacher leader

Overall Program

• Education nonprofit CEO/COO 
• Educational advocate and organizer 
• Entrepreneur 

*Note: This program is not able to provide principal certification at this time.

Introduce Yourself

Tell us about yourself so that we can tailor our communication to best fit your interests and provide you with relevant information about our programs, events, and other opportunities to connect with us.

Program Highlights

Explore examples of the Online Master's in Education experience and the impact its community is making on the field:

The Impact We Hope to Have

Kamal James and Inella Ray will be honored with the Intellectual Contribution Award for the Online Master's in Education Program

Same Questions, One Year Apart

Online Master’s in Education students reflect on their first year in the program

What is a Graduate Degree?

For those considering graduate school , it’s important to take the time to understand what an advanced degree program entails. Read on to learn about the different types of graduate programs, the time commitment, cost, and enrollment conditions required, and what students should expect at this level of advanced study.

An undergraduate degree —either a bachelor’s or associate degree—is considered a baseline educational requirement in many professions. As such, the pursuit of this degree has become commonplace among high school graduates. As of 2018, 69 percent of students chose to complete their undergraduate degree immediately after earning their high school diploma.

A graduate degree —including master’s degrees , doctorates , and PhDs —provides an advanced understanding of a specific topic or field, and demonstrates a commitment to lifelong learning that many employers value. Those who choose to enroll in graduate school often do so with a series of focused, career-oriented goals in mind, which sets the stage for a substantially different type of learning environment than one might experience during an undergraduate career.

Interested in earning an advanced degree?

Explore Northeastern’s 200+ programs to find the one that will best help you achieve your goals.

FIND YOUR PROGRAM

Types of Graduate Degrees

Students embarking on graduate school should begin by determining if an academic or professional degree is right for them.

Students who desire a career in a specific field (such as law, pharmaceuticals, medicine, or education) may opt to pursue a professional degree . These programs emphasize hands-on learning and often require students to obtain substantial real-world experience prior to graduation.

Academic (or research) degrees align with a single, specific area of study or field. Students in pursuit of these degrees are required to develop an in-depth understanding of their subject area and complete a thesis or capstone project to demonstrate their knowledge.

Learn More: Professional Degree Vs. Academic Degree: What’s the Difference?  

Master’s Degree

Although master’s degrees  may be the most common form of graduate study, there are various professional and academic graduate-level degrees that students should consider. Some of the most common include:

• Master of Arts Degree (MA): An MA is a type of academic master’s degree that correlates most directly with humanities-based subject areas such as communications, teaching, languages, and more. Classes in these programs are primarily discussion-based and might require fieldwork, a thesis, or a capstone project prior to graduation. Some common MA programs include Homeland Security , English , and Elementary Education .
• Master of Science Degree (MS) : An MS is another type of academic master’s degree which typically correlates with advanced study in fields that relate to science and mathematics. Courses in these programs often require extensive lab work or research and culminate with thesis or capstone projects, as well. Some common MS programs include Cybersecurity , Corporate & Organizational Communication , Leadership , and Project Management . 
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA): An MFA is a professional degree for artists in fields such as graphic design, music, theater, film, and more. Alongside a practical and abstract exploration of their art, graduates of these programs often receive the credentials necessary to teach at the undergraduate level. Some common MFA programs include Information Design & Visualization , Creative Writing, and Acting.
• Master of Professional Studies (MPS) : An MPS is an interdisciplinary degree focused on a single area of professional study. Unlike MA or MS degrees, these programs are typically more hands-on in nature and require an internship, work-study, or co-op experience prior to graduation. Some common MPS programs include Analytics , Informatics , and Digital Media .

Professional Doctorate

A professional doctorate is focused on the advanced practice of knowledge and skills, making it a degree for those who are more professionally oriented. While these programs also help to develop research skills, the main focus is to apply knowledge to industry to solve new and emerging problems.

• Juris Doctor (JD): This degree provides students with the practical skills and expansive knowledge needed to practice law in America. While JD programs share some commonalities with other graduate-level law degrees, such as a Master of Legal Studies or a Master of Laws , there are key differences between the three.
• Doctor of Education (EdD): This is another professional doctorate degree not to be confused with a PhD in Education . This type of program is for educators and professionals who want to direct and implement change within their organizations. These degrees are designed to prepare students to become leaders in their communities.
• Doctor of Medicine (MD): Students hoping to pursue a career in medicine or surgery pursue this professional doctorate degree.
• Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) : Individuals pursuing a career in the pharmaceutical industry must obtain a PharmD. These programs include components of research, teaching, and clinical practice.

Learn More: Why Earn a Professional Doctoral Degree?

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

A PhD is a postgraduate doctoral degree based on extensive research in a given field. Students can earn a PhD in areas such as technology, humanities, social sciences, and more. Individuals who complete their PhDs often pursue a career in academia, though some may continue on to complete similar research for the remainder of their career. Some common PhD programs include Counseling Psychology , Bioengineering , and Pharmacology . PhDs are not to be confused with professional/clinical doctorates , which are designed to provide students with the practical skills needed to excel in their career. 

How Long Does it Take to Earn a Graduate Degree

The timeline for completion of a graduate degree will vary depending on three factors:

• The type of degree you pursue.
• Your desired subject area.
• The specific institution at which you are studying. 

On average, however, those enrolled in a master’s program full-time will likely complete their degree within one-and-a-half to three years. Individuals who pursue their master’s degree part-time might take longer than three years to complete it, depending on how many credits they enroll in each semester.

Most PhD and professional doctoral candidates will finish their degrees in five to six years, though the time commitment may vary depending on the subject area. Some more intensive degree programs, like an MD, can take up to eight years to complete.

Learn More: How Long Does It Take to Earn a Master’s Degree?

Graduate Degree Requirements

Requirements for different graduate programs vary greatly depending on the subject, institution, and whether or not it is a culminating degree. The most common requirement, however, is an undergraduate degree, as this acts as a base for advanced learning.

Other application requirements for specific graduate programs might include:

• A statement of purpose
• Your educational transcripts
• A portfolio of your work
• Professional/academic recommendations
• Any additional written assignments

You may also need to take and submit your scores for a subject-specific exam (e.g. LSAT, MCAT, etc.) or for the general Graduate Record Examination (GRE) , which is a requirement for many graduate programs globally.

The Cost of A Graduate Degree

The cost of a graduate degree will also vary greatly depending on what program and what institution you are considering. Yet, many people make incorrect assumptions about the price of graduate school based on their knowledge of undergraduate costs.

“Many of us have in our heads the sticker price of $30,000 to $40,000 per year for undergraduate education,” Sean Gallagher , executive director of the Center for the Future of Higher Education and Talent Strategy at Northeastern told U.S. News & Report in 2017. “So we say, ‘OK, it’s two years for a graduate degree, so it’s going to cost me $70,000 to $80,000 or more.’ And while there are certainly programs at that price point, there are many programs where you can get the entire graduate degree for between $20,000 and $40,000.”

No matter the program, graduate school will be both an educational and financial investment in your career. As such, institutions like Northeastern have adopted a variety of financial aid options for students to help hedge the cost of graduate studies. Students can utilize scholarships, grants, and even tuition reimbursement programs through their employers to help pay for their advanced education.

Learn More: Paying for Grad School: Where and How to Start

5 Characteristics of a Strong Graduate Program

#1) flexible learning options.

In most universities, graduate programs are designed to accommodate the needs of working professionals and are thus offered in a variety of exceedingly flexible formats.

Firstly, students at the graduate level can choose to enroll in either a part-time or full-time capacity. A part-time graduate program offers working professionals the opportunity to take on only as many classes as they can handle per semester, and work toward finishing their degree at their own speed. Full-time students, on the other hand, must be enrolled in a specific number of credit hours per semester as determined by the university, and will work toward completing their program in a linear manner. At Northeastern, for example, full-time students must be enrolled in nine quarter hours of graduate credits per semester.

Universities like Northeastern also offer a variety of graduate programs in online , on-ground, and hybrid formats to best fit the needs of any given students. Taking online or hybrid courses is an effective way for students who are already working in their field to balance their coursework with their other professional commitments, as well.

For those who aren’t ready to commit to an entire graduate program, some universities also offer graduate certificates in many in-demand areas of study. Certificate programs provide either a condensed understanding of basic advanced principles as they relate to an area of study, or a very niche look at a specific aspect of the subject. Though the amount of knowledge attained in a certificate program is vastly less than that of a full graduate degree, some prefer this condensed format of study for its reduced cost and shorter time commitment.

#2) A Focused Curriculum 

By the time a student reaches graduate school, they are likely no longer in the exploring phase of their education. Instead, these students have often experienced life as a working professional, determined which area of study best aligns with their passions, and have made the educated decision to become an expert on that topic through the pursuit of a graduate degree.

For this reason, many graduate programs offer students a far more unified educational experience than at the undergraduate level. Often, this will be reflected in a common curriculum that all students within a single program must follow. While they may still be able to pick the specific topics that most interest them off this predetermined list of classes, each course will relate back to their base area of study. This is done in an effort to give students a much more in-depth exploration of that specific topic rather than a surface-level understanding of many, unrelated ones.

Students in graduate school still have the opportunity to customize their education to best fit their needs, however. In fact, programs like those at Northeastern recognize that one of the most impactful offerings they can give their students is the chance to declare a concentration within their degree and tailor their studies in a way that aligns with their professional aspirations.

#3) Opportunities for Hands-On Learning

Northeastern University is known for its emphasis on experiential learning at all phases of a student’s educational journey, offering opportunities for real-world, hands-on learning through internships, work-study, co-ops, and more. There are also a variety of graduate-specific experiential learning opportunities for students, such as Northeastern’s Experiential Network (XN) initiative.

A Closer Look: Northeastern’s XN initiative offers students the opportunity to participate in six-week-long, virtual projects for active organizations within the university’s expansive network. These projects align with students’ academic work, allowing them to apply what they learn in the classroom to these real-world scenarios. Following the format of gig-economy work experiences, students spend 30-40 hours on each project and, in that time, practice making decisions and completing work that will have a genuine impact on these organizations’ success.

In general, graduate degrees tend to be research- or capstone-oriented in nature, meaning that, depending on a student’s area of study, they will be frequently honing their practical abilities alongside their theoretical skills. Graduate programs emphasize this type of learning in an effort to develop well-rounded professionals in each field. These hands-on learning opportunities also offer students unparalleled exposure to different facets of their industry—as well as different types of workplaces—which can then be used to help them make an educated employment decision after graduation.

#4) An Industry-Aligned Network

Students have a unique advantage when it comes to networking in grad school . Between the opportunities to make connections in the classroom, at university-hosted events, and even in the professional world through hands-on learning experiences, these students are in the ideal setting to build their network.

Connecting with Classmates

Your classmates in grad school will likely be equally as driven and passionate about the exact same area of study as you are. You will also have the opportunity to grow together throughout your time in the program, resulting in a slew of common experiences and relationships that will help to keep you connected with and looking out for one another throughout your career. Although they may start out as your classmates, these individuals have the potential to become powerful players in the professional industry post-graduation, as well.

Connecting with Professors

Smaller class sizes and a more collaborative learning environment allow students to develop more personal connections with their professors during grad school than in their undergraduate studies. These relationships can be some of the most important in regards to your career, as professors at top universities like Northeastern are industry leaders and have connections that can be used to make introductions or open doors to potential employment opportunities after graduation.

Connecting with Industry Professionals

Given the emphasis on hands-on learning in grad school, students have the chance to develop their professional networks in their region and with organizations that they may be able to work with post-graduation. Having these types of industry-aligned connections is vital in today’s competitive job market, especially since a connection that has worked with you first-hand in a professional environment can speak to your qualifications in a far more concrete and impactful way than those who are only able to speak to your abilities abstractly.

Students who take the time to develop their professional network while in graduate school — whether online or on-ground —have the potential to see the positive impact of those connections for the remainder of their professional career.

#5) Substantial Impact on Your Career 

Many students pursue graduate degrees to advance their careers. Whether that means getting a promotion, increasing their current salary, or even transitioning fields, these students are looking to make a positive change by showing employers the extent of their knowledge, network, and exposure to experiential learning.

While these goals are often achieved during the pursuit of a graduate degree, students’ careers can be impacted by graduate study in more ways than one. The overall career outlook for graduate degree holders, for instance, is incredibly positive compared to those with only a bachelor’s or associate degree.

For example, the current jobless rate for individuals with a master’s degree or higher is 12.5 percent lower than those who only hold a bachelor’s degree. Similarly, in regard to salary, those with a graduate degree earn 28 percent more than those with just an undergraduate degree on average. These individuals will also make over a million dollars more than those with just a high school diploma in their lifetime.

What’s more, graduates of advanced degree programs are some of the most in-demand within organizations today. When it comes to applying for a new role, 61 percent of employers are finding that the skills required for their open positions have evolved to require a higher education among applicants. By 2022, it is also expected that 18 percent of all jobs will require a graduate degree. Earning an advanced degree will help improve your skills and demonstrate your commitment to career development—two of the best ways to stand out in today’s competitive job market .

Explore Your Options at Northeastern

Ready to take the leap? Consider advancing your career with a graduate degree from Northeastern, a top-40 university . Evaluate the personal and professional benefits of a graduate degree, then explore Northeastern’s 200+ master’s , doctorate , and certificate programs to find the one that best aligns with your career goals.

Browse the Grad School Tips & Advice category of the Northeastern Graduate blog for more content like this from Northeastern University Graduate Programs .

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Did you know.

Advanced degree holders earn a salary an average 25% higher than bachelor's degree holders. (Economic Policy Institute, 2021)

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Undergraduate vs. Graduate: Educate Yourself On The Difference

• Undergraduate Meaning
• Undergraduate Student And Degree
• Graduate Meaning
• Graduate Degree And Student
• Graduate Origin
• Postgraduate Meaning

⚡ Quick summary

The main difference between undergraduate and graduate is that undergraduate is always used in the context of the first level of college or university education (the level where you can earn a bachelor’s degree ). In terms like graduate student and graduate degree , graduate refers to a level of advanced education beyond the undergraduate level, especially a master’s degree or doctorate . The noun graduate is more general, simply referring to a person who has completed a level of education (someone who has graduated ).

The difference between undergraduate and graduate is a difference of degrees (*throws graduation cap in the air to celebrate the pun*).

The level of education that each word involves varies depending on how the word is being used, and there are situations in which both words can be used in the same situation. For example, you can become a graduate student after graduating with an undergraduate degree.

The word graduate can mean very different things depending on whether it’s used as a noun (as in recent   high school graduates ), an adjective (as in graduate student and graduate degree ), or a verb (as in I plan to graduate next May ). The same goes for its shortened form, grad , which can be used as a noun (as in Congrats, grads! ) or an adjective (as in grad program ).

Undergraduate can also be used both as a noun (as in I’m an undergraduate at Stanford University ) or an adjective (as in I’m working toward my undergraduate degree ). It can be shortened to undergrad in both cases.

By the end of this article, you’ll have an advanced degree in all the different ways graduate, grad , undergraduate , and undergrad are used, and what they mean in each case.

What does undergraduate mean?

An undergraduate is “a student in a university or college who has not received a first, especially a bachelor’s, degree.” For example, a college student might say I’m an undergraduate at the University of Texas if they were pursuing a bachelor’s degree there.

Undergraduate is also commonly used as an adjective in this same context, in terms like undergraduate student , undergraduate degree , and undergraduate studies.

Undergraduate is often shortened to undergrad as both a noun and an adjective.

In undergraduate, the prefix under- is used to indicate a lower rank or status. The educational status of an undergraduate student is below that of a graduate student.

What’s the difference between wisdom and knowledge ? Here’s a lesson on the two terms.

What is an undergraduate student ? And what is an undergraduate degree ?

An undergraduate student is a student who is pursuing a degree at the first level of higher education (meaning the level after high school) at a college or university. Undergraduate students are typically those working to earn a bachelor’s degree (or, less commonly, an associate’s degree ). These degrees are often referred to with the general term undergraduate degree.

Outside of the US, an undergraduate degree is sometimes called a first degree. There are also other types of undergraduate degrees outside of the US, such as a foundation degree (which, like an associate’s degree, is typically a two-year degree).

What does graduate mean?

As a noun, the word graduate  [  graj -oo-it ] refers to “a person who has received a degree or diploma on completing a course of study.” In other words, a graduate is someone who has completed a particular level of schooling or an educational program—a child who just finished kindergarten and a doctor who just completed medical school are both graduates. It can even be used figuratively , as in She’s a graduate of the school of hard knocks.

As a verb, graduate [  graj -oo-eyt ] means “to receive a degree or diploma on completing a course of study.” The process of graduating—and the ceremony itself—is called graduation .

As an adjective, graduate [  graj -oo-it ] means something more specific. It’s used to indicate that a student, degree, or educational program is an advanced one, beyond the level of a bachelor’s degree. This sense of graduate is most commonly used in terms like graduate degree, graduate school , graduate program, and graduate student.

What is a graduate degree ? And what is a graduate student ?

Graduate degree typically refers to a degree beyond a bachelor’s, most commonly a master’s.

A graduate student is a student who’s pursuing an advanced degree after having earned their undergraduate degree (such as a bachelor’s degree) by graduating from an undergraduate program. Calling someone a graduate student most often means they are pursuing their master’s degree, but it may be another advanced degree, such as a PhD (You’d most commonly call such students PhD students. Or you might say they are working toward their doctorate or their doctoral degree.)

To earn a graduate degree, graduate students go to a division of a university known as graduate school , and such a program is often called a graduate program. In all of these terms, graduate is often shortened to grad : grad school , grad student , grad program . (A student doesn’t become a graduate student until they take graduate-level courses. For example, if a student graduates with a bachelor’s degree and then later pursues a different bachelor’s degree, they are still an undergraduate student .)

Some graduate studies are referred to in more specific ways: medical students go to medical school to earn their medical degree ; law students go to law school to earn their law degree.

Do you know the difference between these highly-esteemed graduate degrees and titles: PhD, MD, and Dr ?

Where does the word graduate come from?

Graduate comes from the Medieval Latin graduārī, meaning “to take a degree.” It ultimately derives from the Latin gradus, meaning “a step.” Each time you graduate, you take a step to the next level of education.

What does postgraduate mean?

The adjective postgraduate is sometimes used in the same way as the adjective sense of the word graduate, especially in the UK, as in postgraduate student or postgraduate studies.

Postgraduate should not be confused with postdoctoral , which refers to studies, research, or professional work above the level of a doctorate.

How to use undergraduate vs. graduate

The best way to sort out the different meanings of undergraduate and graduate is to determine whether each word is being used as a noun, an adjective, or a verb. Here’s an easy breakdown of the differences.

• undergraduate (noun): A college student pursuing a non-advanced degree, most commonly a bachelor’s degree. Can be shortened to undergrad.
• undergraduate (adjective): Used in the context of colleges and university programs ( undergraduate programs ) where students are pursuing a degree (generally referred to as an undergraduate degree ) that is not an advanced degree. Also sometimes shortened to undergrad.
• graduate (noun): A person who has completed a particular level of schooling or educational program. Can be shortened to grad.
• graduate (verb): To complete a level of schooling (and, typically, to receive a degree or diploma). You can graduate from kindergarten, high school, college, graduate school, medical school, etc.
• graduate (adjective): Used in the context of advanced schooling—a level beyond a bachelor’s degree, most commonly a master’s program. Used in terms like graduate student , graduate school , graduate degree , graduate program , graduate courses , etc. Often shortened to grad.

Examples of undergraduate, undergrad, graduate, and grad used in a sentence

Let’s look at some examples of these words in actual, real-life use to get the meanings straight.

• As an undergraduate, she had studied engineering; as a graduate student, she switched to architecture.
• I completed my undergraduate degree after five years and a lot of hard work.
• As a graduate student, you will be expected to complete a thesis.
• You should start thinking about graduate school applications before you graduate.
• Most of the applicants for this position are recent college graduates.
• I’m still an undergrad, but I’m hoping to start grad school next fall.
• I’m a UGA grad, but I almost went to Georgia Tech.

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The Many Ways Grad School Differs From College

Be prepared for a tougher workload and more independence as a graduate student.

How Grad School Differs From College

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Graduate students usually rely less heavily on textbooks than undergrads, and some of their courses don't include textbooks at all, since the norm is for them to analyze complicated original source materials themselves rather than depending on explanations from others.

Unlike undergraduates, who often take introductory courses in a range of subjects before committing to a major, graduate students typically focus on a particular area of study, such as chemistry or philosophy, from the get-go.

"A graduate degree is more specialized than an undergraduate degree, and it is typically more directly tied to one or several career paths," says Julia Kent, a vice president at the Council of Graduate Schools, an organization that represents universities that grant master's and doctoral degrees.

The most important distinction between college and graduate school, according to higher education experts, is that they are designed with different missions in mind.

The Purpose of College vs. Graduate Studies

A graduate degree is meant to bolster someone's expertise within a field in which they have already demonstrated significant potential. That differs from a college education, which usually includes general education classes in fields like biology and history. A primary goal of a college education is to provide students with "a broad understanding of human civilization," says Robert C. Bird, a professor of business law at the University of Connecticut's business school .

Jana Hunzicker, associate dean for academic affairs at Bradley University's college of education and health sciences in Illinois, notes that a college degree is often the baseline credential required for entry-level positions.

"Most students who pursue a master's degree have a fairly clear idea of what they want to do next in their career," she wrote in an email. And "by the time a student seeks a doctoral degree, he or she has likely reached a point of feeling that they have learned or done as much as they can do without seeking further expert instruction."

Here are several other key differences between college and grad school that experts say prospective grad students should keep in mind.

The Application Process

Personal statements for graduate applications are very different than the ones in college applications, Kent says. "You are expected to explain how completing the degree is tied to your career goals, whereas at the undergraduate level, the focus is often less academic and career-oriented."

Ph.D. programs typically like to see specific information about candidates' research interests and might even wish to hear about particular faculty members the candidates would like to work with. These programs also value research experience, Kent says. Professionally oriented programs, such as those in business and clinical health care fields, often prioritize work experience.

Experts on applied doctoral programs, which are designed to train people for leadership within a specific domain such as education, say that these programs favor students who understand conditions for frontline workers within their field.

The Amount of Personal Awareness and Initiative Required

In graduate school, experts agree, professors expect students to be self-directed and goal-oriented.

If you enroll in grad school, faculty will assume you possess "self-knowledge about what it is that you want to accomplish," says Kent.

Bernadine Mavhungu Jeranyama, an online MBA student at Clark University in Massachusetts, says "intentionality" was one key distinction between her experiences in college and grad school.

"Going to college and graduating with a bachelor’s degree was an expected next step after high school, and a ticket to entry into the working world," she wrote in an email. "The decision to enroll in graduate education came from myself with no outside influence, and I feel more committed to it."

After years in the workforce, Jeranyama realized that she wanted to become an executive who focuses on health equity issues, and she chose a grad degree that aligns with her ambitions.

The Speed, Depth and Difficulty of Courses

Though undergraduate classes can be challenging, in most cases, graduate classes are harder, according to experts.

"Graduate courses tend to cover more material in a shorter period of time," Bird says.

Bird notes that he teaches law classes very differently at the undergraduate vs. the graduate level. In his college classes, he is more likely to provide summaries of court cases, whereas in more advanced courses, he generally asks students to examine legal rulings.

Graduate students usually rely less heavily on textbooks than undergrads, and some of their courses don't include textbooks at all, since the norm is for them to analyze complicated original source materials themselves rather than depending on explanations from others, Bird says.

The Social Environment

Grad students usually have less free time than college students because of the demanding nature of their courses. That is especially true if they are working professionals or parents, experts say.

"In graduate school, there's less time for socializing, and there's less time for going out," Bird says, adding that during law school he lived right near a sports stadium but rarely could find time to see a game there. "You have to focus on your work."

Financial Considerations

Many grad programs require students to pay tuition and fees similar to those at the college level. But Ph.D. students frequently receive funding from whatever university they attend and may receive an annual stipend. "That is very different than a college education where you're paying four years of tuition and having to support yourself as well," Kent says.

Certain short grad programs – such as those that last only a single academic year – require minimal time out of the workforce. Though subsidies for grad school are less plentiful than college scholarships, such awards are available and can be used to reduce student loans.

The Emphasis on Applying Knowledge

According to Kent, hands-on training is common in graduate programs, since students often participate in labs or supervised practicums. And Ph.D. students frequently have some undergraduate teaching responsibilities. "You're getting practice doing the work that you will possibly do in your chosen career and having an opportunity to get feedback from a professor and mentor on that work," she says.

Grad students are expected to use the information they learn in a clever way, not just show they know the facts, says Bird. "It's higher-level thinking that you're expected to do."

Searching for a grad school? Get our  complete rankings of Best Graduate Schools.

30 Fully Funded Ph.D. Programs

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What qualification levels mean

England, wales and northern ireland.

There are 9 qualification levels.

Entry level

Each entry level qualification is available at three sub-levels - 1, 2 and 3. Entry level 3 is the most difficult.

Entry level qualifications are:

• entry level award
• entry level certificate ( ELC )
• entry level diploma
• entry level English for speakers of other languages ( ESOL )
• entry level essential skills
• entry level functional skills
• Skills for Life

Level 1 qualifications are:

• first certificate
• GCSE - grades 3, 2, 1 or grades D, E, F, G
• level 1 award
• level 1 certificate
• level 1 diploma
• level 1 ESOL
• level 1 essential skills
• level 1 functional skills
• level 1 national vocational qualification ( NVQ )
• music grades 1, 2 and 3

Level 2 qualifications are:

• CSE - grade 1
• GCSE - grades 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4 or grades A*, A, B, C
• intermediate apprenticeship
• level 2 award
• level 2 certificate
• level 2 diploma
• level 2 ESOL
• level 2 essential skills
• level 2 functional skills
• level 2 national certificate
• level 2 national diploma
• level 2 NVQ
• music grades 4 and 5
• O level - grade A, B or C

Level 3 qualifications are:

• access to higher education diploma
• advanced apprenticeship
• applied general
• international Baccalaureate diploma
• level 3 award
• level 3 certificate
• level 3 diploma
• level 3 ESOL
• level 3 national certificate
• level 3 national diploma
• level 3 NVQ
• music grades 6, 7 and 8

Level 4 qualifications are:

• certificate of higher education ( CertHE )
• higher apprenticeship
• higher national certificate ( HNC )
• level 4 award
• level 4 certificate
• level 4 diploma
• level 4 NVQ

Level 5 qualifications are:

• diploma of higher education ( DipHE )
• foundation degree
• higher national diploma ( HND )
• level 5 award
• level 5 certificate
• level 5 diploma
• level 5 NVQ

Level 6 qualifications are:

• degree apprenticeship
• degree with honours - for example bachelor of the arts ( BA ) hons, bachelor of science ( BSc ) hons
• graduate certificate
• graduate diploma
• level 6 award
• level 6 certificate
• level 6 diploma
• level 6 NVQ
• ordinary degree without honours

Level 7 qualifications are:

• integrated master’s degree, for example master of engineering ( MEng )
• level 7 award
• level 7 certificate
• level 7 diploma
• level 7 NVQ
• master’s degree, for example master of arts ( MA ), master of science ( MSc )
• postgraduate certificate
• postgraduate certificate in education ( PGCE )
• postgraduate diploma

Level 8 qualifications are:

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Graduate Certificate vs. Master’s Degree: What’s the Difference?

Learn the similarities and differences between these two postgraduate academic credentials.

Mary Sharp Emerson

Adding a postgraduate credential like a master’s degree or a graduate certificate to your resume can be a great way to advance your career. It might even be a stepping stone on the pathway to an exciting career change. 

Knowing which credential to choose, however, can be challenging.

A master’s degree and a graduate certificate can both be valuable. They have many similarities. But they are not interchangeable. 

Understanding the differences between them before you go back to school can help ensure that you choose the right one.

What is a Master’s Degree?

A master’s degree is an academic postgraduate credential designed to help you build broad, foundational expertise in a specific field or discipline. Completing a master’s usually (although not always) requires several years of coursework and a thesis or capstone project.

Master’s degrees are offered by a university or other accredited academic institution. To earn your master’s degree, you’ll have to successfully complete a set number of credit hours. 

Most master’s degree programs require 10-12 courses. To earn many of the master’s degrees at Harvard Extension School, for example, you’ll have to earn a B or higher in 12 courses (48 credits). However, each master’s degree program will define its requirements slightly differently. 

Depending on the specific program, you will likely have to complete several required courses. You’ll also have the option to tailor your program by choosing electives in areas of special interest to you.

You may also be required to complete a research or capstone project or a thesis. This project will allow you to customize your program even more, as well as further demonstrate expertise in a specialized area. 

Some master’s degree programs require a full-time, on-campus commitment. Many master’s degree programs today, however, can be completed part time (often partially or fully online). Although this takes longer than attending full time, you can continue to work while earning your degree.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing a master’s degree program .

Explore master’s degree programs at Harvard Extension School.

What is a Graduate Certificate?

Similar to a master’s degree, a graduate certificate is a credit-based academic credential offered by a university. However, a graduate certificate is more narrowly focused on a specialized field than a master’s degree.

Graduate certificates are a significantly smaller investment in time and money than a master’s. They usually require completion of between three and five graduate-level courses. Most graduate certificates at Harvard Extension require four courses, for example.

You can earn a graduate certificate as a stand-alone credential. Although a graduate certificate is not an academic degree, you may be able to stack your certificate coursework toward a master’s degree.

You can find graduate certificates in a wide range of fields. Technical certificate topics include cybersecurity and data science , for instance. 

If you’re in management, you may want to supplement your corporate knowledge with a certificate in nonprofit or strategic management . Or you may want to improve your leadership skills with a graduate certificate in social justice or equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging . 

Most graduate certificates can be completed part time. Many offer a variety of class formats, including asynchronous or synchronous online courses and in-person courses. 

Explore Graduate Certificates at Harvard Extension School.

How is a graduate certificate different from a professional certification?

A graduate certificate is not the same as a professional or industry certification.

A professional certification is a nonacademic credential awarded by a professional or industry organization. Earning a professional certification usually requires passing a test or exam demonstrating knowledge of a set of skills or a specific tool. You may need to take a class or complete coursework to pass the exam. 

For example, to earn a Project Management Graduate Certificate at Harvard Extension School, you have to earn at least a B in four graduate-level courses in management, leadership, and strategy. To earn a Project Management Professional Certification , offered by the PMI Institute, you have to meet the PMI Institute qualification requirements and pass the PMP exam. 

Graduate Certificate vs. Master’s: What Are the Key Differences?

Understanding the key differences between a graduate certificate and a master’s degree is the first step in choosing between these two credentials. 

Here are some points of comparison that may help guide your decision-making process:

• Required number of courses: Graduate certificates usually require significantly fewer courses than a master’s degree. At Harvard Extension School, for instance, most graduate certificates require four courses. Most master’s programs require 10 to 12 courses. 
• Degree of specialization : A master’s degree is designed to give you broad and deep knowledge in a field. A graduate certificate is more narrowly focused; you can build specialized skills in an area. For example, you could earn a master’s degree in sustainability and a graduate certificate in sustainable food systems. 
• Level of commitment : Graduate certificates are designed with the working professional in mind. Most certificates can be completed online, with flexible live or on-demand class offerings. Master’s degree programs vary significantly in their flexibility and the extent to which they tailor to working professionals. Some master’s degrees, for example, may be fully in person or may require that a percentage of your classes be taken on campus.
• Cost and financial aid : Graduate certificates cost less to complete than master’s degree programs because you are required to complete fewer credits. However, once you are enrolled in a master’s degree program, you may be eligible for federal and state student loans and grants. Students working toward a certificate are not eligible for student loans, although private loans and employer tuition assistance may still be an option. 
• Admissions process : Starting a certificate may have fewer admissions requirements than enrolling in a master’s degree program. You may be able to complete a certificate simply by taking (and passing) the appropriate classes. The admissions process for a master’s degree program varies greatly. Some master’s degree programs, for example, require a formal application process. To begin the admissions process at Harvard Extension School, on the other hand, you first successfully complete a set number of courses in the master’s degree course of study. 

Graduate Certificate vs. Master’s: Which is Best for Me?

When it comes to choosing a graduate certificate or master’s degree, there’s no right or wrong choice. 

Both credentials—when earned from a reputable, accredited university—demonstrate advanced skills and knowledge in your field. And they also demonstrate your ability and commitment to lifelong learning, a trait highly valued by many employers.

Your choice will depend on the skills you hope to gain, your unique career goals, and the level of commitment—both in time and in money—you can make to a graduate program.

Benefits of a Graduate Certificate

A graduate certificate may be most valuable for individuals who want to fill a gap in your skillset or deepen your understanding of a topic area that relates to your work. A graduate certificate might also be best for you if you find yourself unable to commit to the time or cost that it would take to complete a master’s program. Graduate certificates are a great option for students seeking to continue their education while working full time.

Benefits of a Master’s Degree

A master’s degree demonstrates a broader, more advanced breadth of knowledge across a particular field. The knowledge and skills you gain from a master’s program may be transferable across multiple career paths. While it may take longer and cost more to earn your master’s degree, the long-term benefits should make the hard work and commitment worth it.

Stacking Your Credentials

In some cases, you may find you don’t have to choose. At Harvard Extension School, for instance, the courses you take to earn a certificate may also apply to a master’s degree program. Many graduate students complete one or more graduate certificates while completing a master’s degree.

Going back to school is a big decision — one that can have a critical impact on your career. The good news is that there are many options and opportunities for continuing your education. Whether you choose a graduate certificate or a master’s, both can be an excellent investment in your future.

Ready to get started? Find the program that’s right for you.

Browse all graduate programs at Harvard Extension School.

About the Author

Digital Content Producer

Emerson is a Digital Content Producer at Harvard DCE. She is a graduate of Brandeis University and Yale University and started her career as an international affairs analyst. She is an avid triathlete and has completed three Ironman triathlons, as well as the Boston Marathon.

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Graduate Studies in Education

Take your degree to the next level with an advanced degree in education.

Regardless of whether you are a teacher looking to expand your knowledge, you have eyes on an administrative endorsement or you have a degree in another field and want to teach, SC State’s graduate programs in education is the way to get there.

In cooperation with the Department of Education and the Department of Educational Leadership , SC State’s College of Graduate &; Professional Studies offer the following programs:

Master of Arts in Teaching

Our master’s degree for teaching framework focuses on developing you as a professional educator, an effective performer, a reflective decision-maker, and a humanistic practitioner. The major objective of our teaching master’s degree is to provide a route for your initial teaching certification at the graduate level. 

Master of Education

Elementary Education

South Carolina State University’s Master of Education in Elementary Education degree helps strengthen your understanding of how to best support and inspire students—all while opening up rewarding leadership opportunities within your school and community. Learn more

Early Childhood Education

Master of Seconary Education

Department of Education

Specialist & Doctoral Degrees

Specialist in Education (Ed.S.)

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

Department of Educational Leadership

Chair, Department of Education 803-536-8793 [email protected]

Dr. Percy A. Mack Chair, Educational Leadership  [email protected] (803) 536-8963

Master of Education Program

Elevate your teaching career with SMU's Master of Education program. Gain specialized skills in key areas like ESL, Special Education, or Urban Education and become a leader in educational excellence. Start your journey today and transform your passion for teaching into expertise.

public and private schools in Texas

ranking among private graduate schools of education nationally

To kickstart a transformational journey in education, consider SMU's Master of Education program, crafted for aspiring educators committed to making a difference. With flexible specialization tracks in ESL, Special Education, and Urban Education, our program is designed to adapt to your career goals and schedule. Dive into a curriculum that merges theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing you to meet today's educational challenges with innovative solutions.

By requesting information, you take the first step towards enhancing your educational expertise and leadership skills. This program not only focuses on improving your teaching techniques but also equips you with the tools to influence positive change in educational settings. Connect with a community of dedicated educators and start shaping the future of education today. Unlock exclusive insights into our program and discover how SMU can help elevate your teaching career to new heights.

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While our master’s degree programs incorporate various specializations, we also offer non-degree specialization and certification-preparation programs that are designed to satisfy the State Board for Educator Certification’s requirements in specific educational areas. The additional specialization training prepares teachers for the respective certification exams; all SBEC certifications require that a candidate pass a state test.

These advanced credentials are attached to the standard teaching certificate, so as a prerequisite to earning a graduate certification, a candidate must already hold a bachelor's degree and the initial teaching certificate. This degree program is designed for completion within two years. All program requirements for the graduate degree must be completed within six years.

The Urban Education program is designed for teachers of diverse student populations who wish to cultivate more culturally responsive classrooms. Educators explore the historical context of urban education and learn how culturally responsive curricula increase student outcomes, reduce student behavioral infractions, and enhance teacher-student relationships. The 4-course sequence can be taken as standalone professional development. The program's coursework can be applied toward SMU's M.Ed. degree.

The ESL specialization is for practicing educators interested in working with ESL populations. Graduates are prepared to take the TExES (Texas Examination for Educator Standards) English as a Second Language (ESL) supplemental certification exam, a passing score on which qualifies them to work with ESL students populations. The program's coursework can be applied toward SMU's M.Ed. degree.

The Bilingual specialization is designed for teachers who work with students who do not speak English as their native language. Students who succeed in this four-course sequence are qualified to take the TExES (Texas Examination for Educator Standards) supplemental certification exam in bilingual education, a passing score on which qualifies them to work with students who do not speak English as their native language. The program's coursework can be applied toward SMU's M.Ed. degree.

The Special Education specialization is for practicing educators interested in working with students with special needs. Content mastery equips graduates to work with special-needs students; they are able to employ evidence-based practices, monitor response to intervention, individualize intervention based on assessed needs, understand special education law and policy, deliver positive-behavior support, and collaborate with the colleagues and families of special-needs individuals. The program's coursework can be applied toward SMU's M.Ed. degree.

The Mathematics specialization is for practicing educators who wish to advance their content knowledge or pedagogical skills for the purpose of teaching mathematics. Those who successfully complete the 4-course sequence will have to the skills and knowledge to model effective mathematics instruction, translate evidence-based research into classroom teaching, differentiate with diverse learners, and instill creative problem solving. The program’s coursework can be applied to SMU’s M.Ed. degree.

The Literacy Studies specialization is ideal for teachers who desire to advance their knowledge of literacy instruction and assessment specifically for early literacy and late literacy and for those who desire to pursue Reading Specialist certification. Those who successfully complete the program will be more effective teachers, improving student outcomes in literacy. The program's coursework can be applied toward SMU's M.Ed. degree.

The STEM specialization is designed for practicing educators who wish to advance their content knowledge or pedagogical skills for the purpose of teaching science, technology, engineering, and mathematics content. Those who successfully complete the program are equipped to be more effective STEM educators. The program's coursework can be applied toward SMU's M.Ed. degree.

The Educational Diagnostician specialization  is designed for practicing educators who who desire to possess the critical knowledge and skills to identify and make a positive impact on the individual learning needs of students. Those who successfully complete the program will be able to apply their advanced knowledge of assessment and instruction to improve the outcomes of students with special learning needs. After successful completion of the program as part of an M.Ed. degree, candidates will be eligible for the Texas Educational Diagnostician Certificate.

The Learning Therapy specialization is ideal for individuals interested in working with children or adults who have dyslexia or related language learning disorders. Those who successfully complete the specialization are qualified to take the Alliance National Registration Exam for Multisensory Structured Language Education at the therapy level, a passing score on which qualifies the individual for membership in ALTA as a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT). The program's coursework can be applied toward SMU's M.Ed. degree.

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Free master's degree entices dozens of special ed teachers, but Florida needs thousands

Walkers and wheelchairs line the hallways at UCP Bailes Community Academy, a K-8 charter school in Orlando where half of the students have disabilities.

UCP stands for "unlocking children's potential." The nonprofit UCP Central Florida runs this and seven other inclusion schools, where students with physical, behavioral or learning disabilities are integrated into general education classrooms as much as possible. They are also given the support and accommodations they need to succeed alongside their peers.

On this Wednesday morning in January, a class of nine students starts the school day with Haley Thrift. She delivers specialized instruction in core academic subjects, before sending them back to their inclusion classrooms at noon.

During her morning lessons, the class sang a song to help them learn the days of the week, and then they practiced yoga, all with the help of an occupational therapist and a speech therapist.

"There is still a need for those kiddos who have those higher intensity needs and behavioral needs to come into a smaller classroom," said Thrift, who has been teaching at the school for three years. Then, “they still get that social and emotional aspect with their typical gen-ed peers.”

While working full time and taking classes at night, Thrift earned her master’s in exceptional student education from the University of Central Florida as part of a federally funded program called Project Bridges. In return, she will teach students with disabilities for at least four years.

The U.S. Department of Education spends $115 million annually on programs similar to UCF's Project Bridges around the country. Federal data show more than 90% of recent scholarship recipients nationally are working in their field until they’ve met their service obligation. That's either two or four years later, depending on the student.

Project Bridges is one of the initiatives WLRN is reporting on in our series Role Call, examining taxpayer-funded programs that aim to reverse the ongoing and pervasive teacher shortage. Special education teachers represent the biggest need.

Many students with disabilities are taught by unqualified teachers

Across the country, there are more than 7 million K-12 students who require special education, and 15% of Florida students fall into that category.

State projections show Florida public schools are short 2,500 special education teachers for the upcoming academic year.

State data show during the 2022-23 school year, nearly 16% of courses for students with special needs were taught by teachers not certified in that field.

Since Project Bridges launched at UCF in 2015, 56 people have graduated from the program with special education degrees.

While the need for special education teachers is much higher than the program is able to meet, Oliver Edwards, chair of UCF’s Department of Counselor Education and School Psychology, argued every bit of progress counts.

“Our project may be somewhat small in the grand scope of things, but I think it really adds to what’s happening here in Florida in terms of increasing the quantity and quality of teachers and school psychologists in our schools," he said. "And if they only impact one, two, 10, 20 students, and change their lives for the better, that is a tremendous benefit for our state and for our nation.”

While the federal government reports high success rates from this and programs like it, officials do not track these teachers beyond their two- or four-year service obligation.

Kansas State University education researcher Tuan Nguyen told WLRN that’s a problem. In order to measure the effectiveness of these programs, he said we need to collect long-term data.

“In terms of keeping track of how much money do we spend, how long do they stay in the profession, where is the need the greatest…we have to be able to know these things in order to come up with solutions.”

Thrift, the Orlando teacher, knew as early as middle school that she wanted to work with students with disabilities.

“I took an elective course called 'future teachers,' and I was placed in the school’s autism unit, and from there, I just fell in love with working with individuals with special needs,” she said.

Earning a master's degree didn’t give her a huge jump in her salary — only 4% — from $50,500 to $52,500. But she said it made a big difference in her classroom performance.

“It changed my life in this field," she said. "It’s made a huge impact on my students and the way that I teach, so it’s definitely worthwhile.”

This story is part of Role Call, a WLRN project produced with support from the Education Writers Association.

To Really Use Your Data, Think Outside Your School

• Posted May 30, 2024
• By Lory Hough
• Career and Lifelong Learning
• K-12 System Leadership
• Organizational Change

When the Ed School’s Data Wise Project decided to publish a book nearly 20 years ago offering a step-by-step process for using data to improve teaching and learning in schools, their target audience was clear: educators in schools. The project had no intention of scaling the work beyond that group.

But eventually, something else became clear: While the Data Wise book and the initial data-related course they offered were huge hits, educators wanted — and needed — more guidance as they worked toward better serving students. Additional books followed, plus a group of professional learning offerings , ranging from a massive open online course (MOOC) to a coach certification program. 

“We put Data Wise out into the world and were very heartened by the reception of school-based people feeling like, oh, this is a model that can help me do my work better,” says Kathy Boudett , director of the Data Wise Project and a senior lecturer at the Ed School. “But pretty quickly, people at the system level who were supporting schools started asking, ‘What’s our role in modeling this work and supporting schools in doing it well?’”

To help answer these questions, the Data Wise Project staff decided it was time to capture what they’ve learned from working with systems, not just educators in schools, in a new book, out this month through Harvard Education Press called System Wise: Continuous Educational Improvement at Scale . Written by Adam Parrott-Sheffer, Ed.M.’09, Ed.L.D.’20; Carmen Williams, Ed.L.D.’22; David Rease, Jr., Ed.L.D.’14; and Boudett, System Wise extends the Data Wise process from individual classrooms and schools to broader educational contexts for educators at any level. Plans are also underway to launch the first System Wise Leadership Institute, which will take place in May 2025. 

One of the challenges that all system-level leaders face is how to think about scale. The Data Wise team was no different. When they attended the Scaling for Impact institute at the Ed School, “It was like someone turned on the lights,” they write in System Wise . “Until then, we had understood scaling to be about getting bigger, and we were hesitant to embrace growth for growth’s sake. Discovering that scaling could involve depth, sustainability, spread, shift, and evolution helped us to see that scaling didn’t mean we needed to water down our model in an effort to serve more people. In System Wise , we share this learning.”

That original model includes allowing educators to build the skills necessary for looking at data, identifying a problem, coming up with an action plan, and then assessing how well the plan is working to improve student learning. It lets educators dig deep and look not just at numbers, but also teaching practices. Team leaders, principals, and district administrators become “system wise” when, as the book points out, they cultivate the “ACE habits of mind” around action, collaboration, and evidence.

Williams, a school assistant superintendent of instruction and innovation and co-chair of the Data Wise in Action Program , says the ACE habits come from the Data Wise book, but they have evolved.

"What we’ve been able to do is talk about how critical practicing those [habits] are to building a culture around data,” she said in an interview with Harvard Education Press, the publisher of Data Wise and System Wise . “It’s not just doing Data Wise, it's being Data Wise. The Ace Habits of Mind help us to shift our mindsets, but also our orientation to the work of improvement cycles. I think that’s a game changer when you're at the system level because, typically, a system leader gives a directive and someone else follows it. If there's going to be a culture change, everyone is going to be rowing in the same direction. By committing to the Ace Habits of Mind, that's kind of the anchor for how we can all move together and have a rhythm. If we’re speaking the same language and we have the same mindsets, then at every level of the organization we’re deepening our practice around data.”

Each chapter of System Wise starts out with a question, such as, “What counts as data?” and “Do we see each learner first through their strengths?” which are designed to support taking an equity lens. Chapters also include case studies, planning checklists, implementation templates, and a discussion of what the approach looks like at each step. Parrott-Sheffer says the book allows readers to jump in at any point.

“We really think as you read System Wise, you’ll be like, ‘Hey, I'm at a stage where I'm trying to figure out what to focus on, so I might start at the beginning.’ You might already have a strategic plan you’ve built and you’re going to start with step six and seven, more towards the middle of the book, because that’s going to be most applicable. The nice thing about continuous improvement is you can join the carousel anywhere and it’s going to get you into the feedback loop.”

The work is also very student centered. Rease, director of equity, diversity, and belonging in Prince George’s County Public Schools in Maryland, points to chapter two of the book, where Jorge, an educator in Illinois, talks about how they were not setting high expectations for immigrant students in their district. As his system engaged in the improvement process, they realized they had “been doing school in the same way” and, with this new group of students, what they were doing might be harmful. “The System Wise approach created an opportunity for that reflection to happen,” Rease says, “so that people could start behaving differently and really assess their values.”

Another key aspect of the System Wise book, Williams says, is its focus on community.

“There are going to be people who pick this book up and feel affirmed because they’re already doing some of the practices,” she says. “The missing piece, though, might be how do you know to what level? To what end are you producing what you really want to produce? That’s where the value of reading this book and doing this book in community comes in. It’s just like a workout with a trainer. You can walk on the treadmill at a pace, but you might need someone else to say, ‘I bet you can go faster. I bet we can go longer.’ Reading this book and living this book in community is where you’re going to get the best results.”

The latest research, perspectives, and highlights from the Harvard Graduate School of Education

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