Azusa Pacific University cultivates a vibrant culture of academic excellence, encouraging all students to lean into high standards of learning and professional preparation. Within the School of Education’s new Master's of Education (MAEd), lovers of learning can expand their knowledge and skills in and out of the classroom. This program is designed for any professional seeking to deepen their understanding of teaching, regardless of their profession.
The new Master’s of Education is specifically tailored for professionals who have already earned their teaching credentials or work in fields where K-12 certification is not required. This streamlined, one-year program offers an efficient, cost-effective pathway to career advancement. It is an ideal solution for educators looking to transition into specialized instruction or coaching at the community college and university levels, where a master’s degree is a foundational requirement for professional success.
While the traditional master's of education degree provides an excellent extension of existing teaching credentials with a focus on K-12 classrooms, it may not align with the professional realities of educators working in diverse or non-traditional learning environments. “Our program has a focus on both pedagogy and andragogy, how to teach children and adults,” said Catherine Hahs Brinkley, EdD, associate dean of the School of Education. “This Master's degree is for teachers who want to expand their knowledge, professors who are experts in their field but want to connect with students better, or even corporate instructors who lead professional development.” With courses that address the unique aspects of teaching others, this program is designed for a wide range of educators.
This hybrid master's program is primarily delivered through an asynchronous online
format, providing students worldwide with the flexibility to complete their coursework
remotely while maintaining consistent engagement with faculty and their cohort through
two in-person residencies. “We are rolling out the red carpet and celebrating these
students who are deciding to honor their calling to teach,” said Hahs Brinkley.
The year-long cohort model intentionally embeds community-building into the curriculum,
a foundation further strengthened by in-person residencies that foster lifelong connections
and direct faculty mentorship.
Rooted in APU’s identity as a Christian institution, this program intentionally weaves faith integration into the curriculum, encouraging students to engage in critical dialogue and reflective practice. “We are helping them to take a deep look at themselves while faculty model education through a Christian lens,” said Stacy Kula, PhD, dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences. “Through the cohort structure, students develop their faith in conversation, growing together throughout the year.” As faculty share their deep love for God, students learn to articulate a Christian worldview and how to share their values in their workplaces.
By expanding the reach of this hybrid program, the goal is to provide students nationwide with accessible opportunities to earn their master’s from APU. “We are open to many kinds of students—public and private school teachers, those in corporate instruction, and those in higher education,” said Kula. “With that kind of diversity, students are able to work in cohorts and have conversations that they wouldn’t normally have.” Designed for the working professional, this flexible master’s program empowers educators to integrate their practical expertise into a collaborative environment, fostering deep growth through shared experience and rigorous inquiry. Through this comprehensive program, students will be prepared to lead across the entire educational spectrum, from preschool settings to adult learning environments.
While this program is new, it is backed by the School of Education's continued success. “We want to bring in our curriculum and instruction courses from our other Master's programs, because they are fundamental to teaching successfully,” said Kula. “Our alumni from our programs are highly desired by districts because of their ability to think deeply and authentically while maintaining cutting-edge practices.” Supported by a dynamic, high-impact program, alumni will graduate equipped with the essential tools for professional excellence.
As this program prepares to welcome its first cohort of students in spring 2027, its commitment to providing a supportive, community-centered experience is clear. “I would encourage all the incoming students to seek out connections,” said Hahs Brinkley. “You are getting to know people from all over the nation, all walks of life, in all fields, so soak it all up.” As these students continue, they will have the support of their professors, mentors, and fellow students. “There are so many resources for your success, and we are happy to do all we can to help you succeed,” said Hahs Brinkley. Designed for the modern educator, this program offers the flexibility, community, and expertise you need to lead.
Learn more about the program and how APU can support your goals.