The M.A. in Education is designed specifically for educators who wish to broaden their roles in and beyond the classroom. (This program does not include initial ISBE licensure.)

With this degree, students can customize a program of study suited to their interests and career goals. For students who hold a teaching license, this may be an added endorsement. Specialty certificates to consider include:

  • English as a Second Language
  • Education Technology Specialist
  • Higher Education Online Pedagogy
  • Leadership and Learning
  • Learning Behavior Specialist 1
  • Legal Aspects of Education

Learning Outcomes

  • Gain the ability to tailor your educational journey, leading to specialized expertise in your chosen area of interest within the field of education. This could range from innovative curriculum design to advanced educational technology, positioning you as an expert in your niche.
  • Acquire comprehensive skills in restorative practices, enabling you to create inclusive, empathetic and supportive learning environments. Learn to effectively address and resolve conflicts, foster a sense of community and build stronger, more resilient educational settings.
  • Develop strong leadership skills with a focus on ethical, democratic and intellectual aspects of education. Be prepared to lead in a diverse range of educational settings, drive positive change and influence policy and practice in education, equipped with a deep understanding of contemporary educational challenges and solutions.
  • Develop effective teaching strategies for diverse learners.
  • Influence instructional design, understand assessment techniques, and use data-driven decision-making.

Quick Facts

Tuition
Online: $13,896*
Duration
2 years
Credit Hours
36

Calendar

Don't miss an important date or deadline

Designed for working professionals, UIS programs feature multiple start dates per year, so you can begin at the time that best fits your schedule and complete your degree quickly. View the Academic Calendar

Now Enrolling

Apply by Date:
August 10, 2026

Start Date:
August 24, 2026

Apply Today!

Tuition & Aid

UIS is the most affordable option to earning your University of Illinois degree. Earn a world-class education for less than you’d expect.

Tuition Estimates

Online $13,833*

*These numbers represent an estimate of the in-state tuition cost for this program and do not include fees. To get an estimate of the full cost of attendance check out the cost of attendance page and/or use the tuition calculator.

Admissions

Applying to UIS is simple

We've streamlined our admission process to save you time and effort. Just follow the steps below.

 

Review admission requirements

No specific admission requirements are listed at this time. Please contact the Office of Admission for more information.

International students, will you need an F-1 student visa to study on campus at UIS? Please review the International Applicants site for additional information.

Complete your application

An email address is required to create an account. To submit a paper application, visit the Resources & Forms page. Find more information about what type of student you are on the Student Types page. Applying for an online program is the same procedure as applying for an on-campus program.

Send your official transcripts

Email your official or certified academic records/transcripts to incomingtranscripts@uis.edu or through any of the major transcript platforms. Photocopies will not be accepted.

Submit required statements/writing sample

If you are a first-year student, a statement of 250-650 words is required for admission. We want to hear about your professional aspirations, intellectual interests, and personal experiences relevant to your choice of a specific academic program. You can upload the required documents on your application status page.

Pay your application fee

You can submit your non-refundable application fee online, after completing the online application. Alternately, it can also be mailed to the university, payable to University of Illinois Springfield.

Domestic students: Undergraduate - $50, Graduate - $60;

International students: Undergraduate - $60, Graduate - $75.

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Courses & Catalog Information

Career Outlook & Potential Earnings

Graduates of this program may find opportunities in the following careers. Data sourced from O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses

Care for ill, injured, or convalescing patients or persons with disabilities in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, private homes, group homes, and similar institutions. May work under the supervision

Median Annual Wage $64,400
Wage Range $49,740 – $83,440
Projected Growth Average
Top Skills:
  • Service Orientation
  • Coordination
  • Social Perceptiveness
Typical Education: Some college, no degree, Post-secondary certificate, Associate’s degree

Medical Assistants

Bright Outlook

Perform administrative and certain clinical duties under the direction of a physician. Administrative duties may include scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, billing, and coding infor

Median Annual Wage $45,690
Wage Range $36,050 – $59,310
Projected Growth Bright
Top Skills:
  • Social Perceptiveness
  • Active Listening
  • Speaking
Typical Education: Post-secondary certificate, High school diploma or equivalent, Some college, no degree

Medical Transcriptionists

Transcribe medical reports recorded by physicians and other healthcare practitioners using various electronic devices, covering office visits, emergency room visits, diagnostic imaging studies, operat

Median Annual Wage $40,410
Wage Range $28,250 – $55,950
Projected Growth Below Average
Top Skills:
  • Active Listening
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Writing
Typical Education: Post-secondary certificate, Some college, no degree, High school diploma or equivalent

Phlebotomists

Bright Outlook

Draw blood for tests, transfusions, donations, or research. May explain the procedure to patients and assist in the recovery of patients with adverse reactions.

Median Annual Wage $45,230
Wage Range $35,780 – $58,780
Projected Growth Bright
Top Skills:
  • Service Orientation
  • Social Perceptiveness
  • Active Listening
Typical Education: Post-secondary certificate, High school diploma or equivalent, Some college, no degree

Adapted Physical Education Specialists

Provide individualized physical education instruction or services to children, youth, or adults with exceptional physical needs due to gross motor developmental delays or other impairments.

Median Annual Wage $76,580
Wage Range $48,440 – $120,080
Projected Growth Below Average
Top Skills:
  • Instructing
  • Active Learning
  • Active Listening
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree, Post-baccalaureate certificate, Master’s degree

Health Education Specialists

Bright Outlook

Provide and manage health education programs that help individuals, families, and their communities maximize and maintain healthy lifestyles. Use data to identify community needs prior to planning, im

Median Annual Wage $64,070
Wage Range $42,990 – $118,200
Projected Growth Bright
Top Skills:
  • Active Listening
  • Speaking
  • Writing
Typical Education: Associate’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, High school diploma or equivalent
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2026-08-24