Applying for a graduate program is a challenging decision as many of those who have aspirations for higher education already have full plates. I myself had an established full-time teaching position in addition to caring for my family of six, which in itself is another full-time job.

Deciding to take on another responsibility took some consideration, but in the end, it meant I was able to pursue my dream career as an educational administrator as well as have higher earning power, which would ultimately benefit my family. Through my graduate program, there were several components that aided in my success while juggling other personal and professional responsibilities; these tips and tricks are outlined below.

Setting Goals

Understand the requirements for the position of interest. This begins by performing research in the field of interest and taking note of the position’s expectations for educational and job-related experience. Review several job openings to ensure you obtain the correct degree and start considering how you would obtain the experience necessary for the position. Several of the graduate programs at Concordia University Irvine have job-related experience requirements built into the program, which will help set you up for your dream career once you graduate.

Now that you clearly understand the requirements for your career of interest, start setting those goals! Aim to write a single SMART goal, one that is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound, and place it visibly so you can read it daily.

An example could be, “I am going to obtain my Preliminary Administrative Service Credential as measured by passing each eight-week course block consisting of two classes, one core and the other an experience-based practicum course, which will take me a total of 14 months.”

You may also want to include the career for which you are aiming, the desired location of the position, and any other relevant information that will help keep you motivated.

Budgeting

While graduate school is not cheap, it is a means to higher earning potential. The money that is invested in your education will be recouped once you are in a new position. One of the biggest tips for budgeting is to create a spreadsheet that includes monthly obligations and income. Use this to determine how much you can reasonably afford each month toward your tuition and budget for educational loans. As a graduate student, you are able to apply for a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), to help with your tuition.

Although this is an unsubsidized loan, meaning you are responsible for the interest accrued during your time enrolled in school, it is a low-interest loan that will allow you to reach your educational and professional goals. Use a Student Loan Interest Calculator to determine how much you would like to pay each month as this will help you budget and give you a clear picture of the required monthly payments once you graduate. Lastly, consider the pay increase you will have once you obtain your degree and land your dream job. In many cases this salary increase will allow you to pay off the loan in a manageable amount of time giving you more financial freedom.

Time Management

As a busy working individual, it is important to remember how you will manage the time required for your degree while also meeting other professional and personal expectations. As a mom of four, time management was a crucial component to my success in the graduate program. Initially, working on the weekends was the best time to complete assignments. However, I quickly found that this would not be sufficient nor reasonable for the posted assignments.

I had to ensure I was reading daily, actively posting on discussion boards throughout the week, and preparing to complete main research assignments. The eight-week courses were helpful in my time management as I was able to map out what needed to be completed each week to stay on top of the work. Although I set daily task expectations for myself, the time that was required to complete the tasks was minimal. This daily focus on learning allowed me to complete work more quickly and retain much of the obtained knowledge.

Why You Should Choose Concordia University Irvine for Your Grad Degree

Concordia University Irvine (CUI) is the best choice for your graduate degree program as they are student focused and aim to prepare you for your career of choice. Whether your program is in person or online, the staff ensure you are part of the CUI community, making you feel included and important. There are several opportunities to be involved in campus events, even while being an online-only student, including joining clubs and other student organizations that you can include in your portfolio and resume.

In addition, the professors are effective communicators, provide timely feedback on coursework, and create valuable assignments that help you grow in your career. CUI also designs graduate programs with working individuals in mind. Their programs have eight-week long sections, consisting of one core class and one practicum course to earn professional experience. Each core class has five to six main assignments and one to two weekly discussion board questions.

The discussion boards give students an opportunity to think about problems of practice in their field while also building a community within the cohort of students. Upon graduation, you will be able to apply for any desired position and have the knowledge and experience to be the top candidate for the position.

Interested in continuing your education? Check out Concordia University Irvine education graduate programs and take your next step today!

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The everlasting tug-of-war with the resource of time should be one that is considered, yet it should be understood that the programs at Concordia University Irvine allow you the flexibility and support to balance your demands.

Our society has recently and quickly morphed into one that allows for more flexibility in the workplace as to where, when, and how we work; you will also find this in the world of graduate studies. This is managed by your personal choices that fit your lifestyle and learning style.

Find the Format for You 

As professionals, we learn how to be efficient in the way we find information and collaborate. At Concordia University Irvine, you have the choice of which format of learning is best for your communicative and learning styles, as well as your priorities. All formats will incorporate writing, presenting, and engaging with course material, peers, and professors.

Online

Being an online student may be a combination of synchronous and asynchronous classes if you elect a credential program. The benefits include no commuting and the most flexible schedule. This is a favorable option for those who need to individualize their learning time as much as possible; however, it is necessary for the student to have dedication to personal time management. Suppose you crave some in-person content and connection, and your program requires you to complete a limited amount of Saturday seminars. In that case, students have the opportunity to engage with the programming through livestreaming or in-person on campus.

Hybrid

The hybrid option involves a student meeting with the cohort and instructor face-to-face every other week. During the alternating weeks, students work asynchronously. This avails the student to receive in-person networking and support. Additionally, it includes limited commuting and is not conducted in-person weekly, which grants the student some flexibility with their time.

In-Person

The traditional in-person pathway is especially accommodating if you are a learner who benefits from a more structured schedule to assist in the management of time since you will commit to an in-person class weekly. Moreover, it allows you to network professionally in your local area. Lastly, due to the face-to-face time, you will be discussing much of the course content within class so you may not be required to participate in weekly discussion boards.

Regardless of your chosen format, your classes will meet on the same night and at the same time each week or every other week; this allows for consistency to your schedule. It also affords you the possibility to adjoin with your group members before or after your class since most students have some flexible time adjacent to class time.

How to Use Your Time Wisely

Course elections are varied and available to a myriad of schedules. If you work a job that requires you to be available in the day during the week, you will have the options of evening classes and weekend classes or seminars. Additionally, if you are an educator and have the summer to have freedom from your typical schedule, it may be the perfect time to take summer classes. The ability to take summer classes allows you to complete your program at a faster pace if that is a goal.

In addition to how, where, and when you want to access your courses, you will also need to manage time to devote to your coursework.

Knowing the syllabus and upcoming assignments permits students to balance their graduate and professional work more effectively. Regardless of when you take your courses, it is important to determine when you will do your independent or collaborative coursework. Oftentimes, if you schedule the workload of the syllabus at the beginning of the eight-week class, you will be more successful in being organized with your assignments and managing your studies.

Full-time teachers reviewing the calendar may be delighted to learn that they still will be able to enjoy some of their normal time off, including holidays and part of the summer. Concordia’s calendar does observe and does not hold class during Thanksgiving week, a few weeks at Christmas, Spring Break, and even some weeks in July. Even with these educational breaks to rejuvenate, you can complete your program in two years or less. Some graduate students may be able to have an accelerated one-year completion rate!

Communicate with Professors and Cohort

Graduate students at Concordia University Irvine will find that when they communicate effectively and regularly, their professors and cohort will be a strong support to their success.

My communication with professors at Concordia was reliable and encouraging. Professors were quick to respond to emails, which is incredibly helpful if you are working on your papers and projects on weekends or at night. Thankfully, professors recognized this as the timeframe when working professionals would need the most support and would make themselves available.

As within your professional world, most professors will give you courtesy if there is a difficulty with your deadline if you are communicative. Professors are human; they understand that life does not stop once you enroll in a program. A Concordia University Irvine graduate student will discover that professors are reasonable and encouraging in order to support you in achieving your goals.

Although your professors are your resources, so is your cohort; they will become your extended support network. Regardless, if you are an online or in-person student, you will communicate with your cohort via texts, emails, Zooms, etc., regarding topics from APA formatting to understanding the expectations of an assignment. However, knowing that your peers are also concurrently teaching, there is a mutual understanding of time constraints and priorities.

How Concordia University Irvine Made This Easy

Prospective students may be overwhelmed with how to schedule their classes, so their studies are balanced, and the coursework is logically sequenced. Easy, let your academic advisor guide and plan with you!

Concordia University Irvine set the path for my degree completion with suggested courses in a sequence so I could complete my degree with a supportive cohort. Having a cohort allowed me to choose partners I knew with similar pacing and communication styles.

Additionally, an academic advisor regularly kept in touch with me to be sure I registered and was on track with completing my courses successfully in order to graduate within my personal goal’s timeline.

Knowing that the flexible choices and multiple supports are there to help you balance graduate school with work, why not make some room in your schedule to earn a degree and open different doors?

Interested in continuing your education? Check out Concordia University Irvine education graduate programs and take your next step today!

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Educators are constantly trying to improve their pedagogy through professional development opportunities, reading blogs about classroom strategies and new student-led activities online, and collaborating with peers when time permits. However, there comes a time when educators reach a mastery level where they must pursue formal education to continue their growth as an educator.

A master’s degree in education allows teachers to have the formal education that is beneficial to be a leader in their district. There are several options for a master’s degree, from Curriculum and Instruction to Educational Administration. One only needs to analyze their personal goals when deciding on which master’s program to select.

My drive to continue my education came from my second-year teaching science at a Title 1 school. My students were struggling, and my current teaching practices were not meeting the needs of the students in my room. At my previous school, where I taught for eight years, there was a lot of parental support, students were intrinsically driven to learn, they automatically respected adults, and I was able to completely focus on the curriculum at hand. I quickly realized that my style of teaching needed to be altered to meet the needs of the students in my room.

When collaborating with a colleague, I was told that I needed to lower my rigor for our students, which did not sit right with me. I knew the students in my room were no different than those I had at my previous school; I just needed to find ways to reach them. I read books and articles about connecting with students, how to encourage students to succeed, and was constantly reflecting and modifying my curriculum to ensure I was equitably addressing all the students in my room. Finally, I started to see improvements with student achievement, and my classroom management improved as well.

This experience pushed me to want to help other teachers struggling with students in their classroom. However, my influence over teachers within my school was minimal as I was new to the district. I decided to enroll in Concordia University Irvine’s M.A.Ed. Educational Administration to make a more significant impact on my school and within my district. It was not an easy decision as I knew it would be a lot of work outside of my school day and would add to my student loans.

However, the impact I was going to be able to make with this degree outweighed any doubts I had going in. Now that I have graduated, I was quickly hired as an assistant principal at a high school within my district. This opportunity has allowed me to work one-on-one with teachers to improve student outcomes and to build a school culture that promotes equitable high-quality education for all students.

Ways to Continue Your Education

There are several ways for teachers to further their education in addition to a master’s degree education through a university. Many districts offer professional development opportunities, which can look different depending on which district you are in. Some pay teachers for their time spent on professional development if it happens outside of the school days, whereas some districts have professional development days where teachers learn, and the students have a day off. These opportunities can be valuable if they are followed up with small group collaborative time for teachers to reflect on the newly acquired teaching strategies they are implementing in their classrooms.

Another way to continue education is through real-world experiences in the industry. For example, some programs hire teachers during the summer as a paid internship opportunity. These experiences allow teachers to gain firsthand knowledge of modern technology and workplace practices that they can then bring back to their classroom. It allows for innovative teaching practices and ensures the curriculum is up to date.

Lastly, teachers can continue education and move up on the pay scale by taking classes beyond their bachelor’s degree. Classes can be focused on education or can help a teacher gain depth of knowledge within their curriculum.

Additional Benefits of Continued Education for Teachers

“Developing as a Professional Educator” is a standard within the California Standards for the Teaching Profession for a specific reason: students benefit from a teacher’s continued education. Teachers must continue education to be ever-changing in their pedagogical skills and keep up with changing technology and workforce trends. Students benefit when teachers keep their curriculum up to date as it allows students to graduate college and career ready.

In addition, teachers benefit as they can use innovative strategies that encourage student-led learning, furthering student engagement and ownership of their education. Lastly, continuing education is a way to move on the pay scale. Credits that are earned beyond your bachelor’s degree allow you to move over on the pay scale. Many districts also award teachers with a master’s degree a nice stipend to add to their salary schedule. As an administrator, the cost of the degree was minimal compared to the jump in pay scale I experienced going from a teacher to an administrator. Not only can I make a difference at the district level, I am also able to pay back my student loans quickly.

Benefits of Receiving Continued Education at Concordia University Irvine

Concordia University Irvine has many opportunities to continue education as a teacher that can support any teacher in their professional goals. The courses are designed to build capacity within each student where the coursework is challenging but is immediately applicable to the classroom and your growth as an educator. The professors are always available to support you when needed, the university offers relevant professional development opportunities, and the coursework prepares you for the next step in your career. As a recent graduate, I am so happy that I chose Concordia University Irvine and would do it all over again in a heartbeat.

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It is important to understand what a master’s in curriculum and instruction is and how it compares to other master of education, or a doctor of education. It is valuable to acquire knowledge about what is learned throughout earning this master’s degree and be aware of the benefits (both personal and professional) that are gained for completing a curriculum and instruction masters.

What is a Master’s Degree in Curriculum & Instruction?

A master’s degree in curriculum and instruction is well-suited for all those working in education. The focus of a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction is to acquire knowledge on emerging, best practices to improve school programs, and to implement innovative classroom strategies.

Ever evolving technology tools and technological supports for student learning and assessment are a part of what is gained in this graduate program. In addition, Concordia University Irvine offers its graduate students who complete their M.A.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction the option to earn a second M.A.Ed. in Learning, Design, and Technology for an additional five courses.

What You’ll Learn in a Master’s in Curriculum & Instruction Program

The coursework to earn a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction is broad and supports the graduate student in preparing to compile their capstone project. Coursework includes learning about effective leadership styles, the design and assessment of curriculum, and innovative technology as we bring our classrooms into the 21st century.

In addition, students investigate the diversity of families, schools, and communities, and how current societal changes and reforms affect society, neighborhoods, and schools where they currently work. Brain-based research focuses on assisting educators in how they engage with students in teaching and learning.

Coping skills regarding the stress and violence, which are now a part of what educators must be prepared to deal with, are also examined. The development and growth of ethics and character within the school community is another nexus that is touched upon. All the coursework prepares graduate students to select, narrow, and compose their capstone project.

The capstone project for a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction is a thesis-style document on current and innovative research of an educational focus the graduate student selects. The capstone’s focus is typically linked to a current issue at a teacher’s school site or a current passion in education that could benefit the school community that graduate student works in.

Unlike a doctorate, which takes years to earn and has a capstone project based on new knowledge tied a hypothesis and requires defending a dissertation, the capstone for a masters in curriculum and instruction begins at the start of the course work and is completed by the end of the course work, usually 12 to 24 months. This grad degree capstone project is based on existing current and peer-reviewed research. The Concordia University Irvine instructors and the progression of the coursework support the graduate student in completing their capstone project on time.

Advantages of a Master’s Degree in Curriculum & Instruction

The professional and personal advantages of earning a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction are numerous. This degree provides for a multitude of professional career advancements, progress on moving columns on a district salary schedule, knowledge to be a curricular leader within a school community, and the satisfaction of completing a high-level educational goal for personal reasons. All of these are outstanding reasons to pursue this degree.

Career Advancement

The opportunity to advance one’s career in education are numerous and much more likely with a master’s degree. Many district-level positions ask the educator to have a wide and diverse knowledge of curriculum and classroom practices, which a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction provides.

This offers the educator a leg up on the application process for these types of positions in education. Due to the diverse knowledge gained in holding a curriculum and instruction degree, it allows one to be an instructor at the university level in education courses and to work as a student teacher supervisor.

Increased Salary/Retirement

Educators need to be sure that they are being mindful of how they are setting themselves up for retirement. A master’s degree allows an educator to move laterally on the columns of a district pay schedule, ensuring them of a higher monthly check when they do decide to retire. After all the demanding work and personal sacrifices an educator makes throughout a career, one deserves to be secure in their retirement.

Knowledge to be a Curricular Leader

Taking on various leadership roles within the educational community one works in is important to personal growth as an educator. The wide berth of knowledge gained in earning an master’s degree in curriculum and instruction will aid an educator in advocating for innovative and best practices related to curriculum and classroom strategies. This will support students in their learning academically and socially.

Networking

The online format of Concordia University Irvine’s master’s degree allows educators within a cohort to network with other educators across California. Networking provides a format for sharing ideas and experiences that can support and provide for professional growth and opportunities that are different from their daily collaboration with current colleagues.

Concordia University Irvine’s M.A.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction

Most educators tend to be life-long learners and strive to remain innovative in their careers. Earning a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction supports this desire. Concordia University Irvine makes this personal and profession goal doable. The online format allows working educators to complete coursework on their own time schedule, with most dedicating evening hours to complete assignments and projects.

Graduate students can choose to complete this M.A.Ed. in 24 months or choose the accelerated program and earn the M.A.Ed. in 12 months. Concordia University Irvine has set up the coursework to build upon itself and to allow students to learn and master the APA writing style required for the capstone project.

The instructors at Concordia University Irvine are supportive in helping students to grow and be ready to complete their capstone projects successfully. If you have been contemplating earning an M.A.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction, you are encouraged to make this goal a reality. You will find the journey worth the time you commit to it.

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An M.A.Ed. in Educational Administration is a graduate degree that will improve an educator’s understanding of multiple facets of school improvement, school district organization, and state policy.

Concordia University Irvine’s (CUI) master’s program not only informs but also tasks students to:

• Practice research
• Evaluate data
• Communicate findings
• Develop action plans

In the M.A.Ed. program, you must apply what you are learning to realistic situations you have encountered in your profession. This involves class presentations, discussions, and papers.

Your final showcase of learning is in the form of a capstone action research project and presentation, where you will identify a problem to solve, research, and create your solution to evaluate after administering.

In surplus to the master’s degree, you may also choose to pursue eligibility for the California Preliminary Administration Services Credential concurrently. This additional endeavor includes two practicums totaling 100 hours. Practicum experiences include a variety of leadership and learning foci, including district-level, community-based, and site-centered activities.

What You’ll Learn in an M.A.Ed. in Educational Administration Program

In a program centered on administration, you will reflect on many leadership styles and philosophies. At Concordia University Irvine, you will develop a strong understanding of servant leadership and how you can model transformational leadership. In addition, you will have courses in curriculum choices, best practices in instruction, human resources, legal aspects, financial resources, and research.

If you register to become eligible for the Preliminary Administration Services Credential, during the administrative practicum, you are required to perform various administrative tasks and projects. These will further your practical learning and hone your flexibility and decisiveness. The experiences will round out your preparation and inform you more globally of administrative roles within schools, communities, and districts.

After time in the CUI program, you will communicate more knowledgeably among stakeholders and display skills and competencies as professional leaders. You will learn to observe education through local, state, and federal lenses.

Advantages of an M.A.Ed. in Educational Administration

Achievement of Career Goals

When one initially considers attending graduate school, they may do so for the motivating “carrot” of an increased salary. Education is a field of employment that monetarily rewards its’ employees’ advancement of learning. Therefore, depending upon the requirements of a specific district, one may acquire column advancement through credit or degree completion.

However, in addition to improving financial compensation, an educator may aim to broaden job opportunities or acquire a new position, which may require a graduate degree. In pursuing such a degree, not only will you build your knowledge, but you will also synchronously enhance your resume’s attractiveness to potential employers. Experiences gained through the program can help help bolster your resume and facilitate more interview content regarding your skills, knowledge, and competencies.

Improvement of Instruction

Unquestionably, one of the foci of CUI’s master in education is instruction. Although there was a three-unit course specifically designed around instructional and transformational leadership and another on curriculum design and evaluation, Concordia also provided further development.

CUI School of Education Leadership Symposia is one of my favorite aspects of the program. Students are invited to attend three one-unit, half-day symposia highlighting influencers in education who are well-versed in current issues and best practices across various topics. Symposia are required of the graduate program but are also a valued perk of alumni.

Symposia topics are relevant, and speakers are highly-experienced. For example, through the symposium on brain science, attendants could learn current research regarding brain-based teaching and learning as well as how environments intentionally assembled for the senses (colors, sound, etc.) affect behaviors and learning. I found this useful within my classroom and when on panels for decision-making for redesigning our school.

Another symposium centered itself on the concept of innovation. As an educator in a school that was one of the first in the district to have one-to-one technology called “Innovation Middle School”, I was particularly eager to attend this course. The innovation symposium pressed me to evaluate myself as an instructor, especially within a school with a name demonstrative of our value of an innovative culture.

I had to question if I was genuinely using technology or if it was just a tool to streamline my workflow and post content and assignments digitally. Was I allowing it to disrupt my patterns of instruction and student learning? Was I only using it as a tool to engage, or were students empowered by it? 

The above are just a few examples of how Concordia intricately balances the presentation and sharing of research with self-reflection of practices and visions.

Advancement of Essential Leadership Skills

Another advantage of the M.A.Ed. program at CUI is my advancement in leadership skills.

I am more confident in sharing what I have learned with colleagues, principals, and families about the educational system and resources and proactive when trying to find solutions.

By starting the graduate program, my principal became aware of my leadership interest and discovered I could be an asset to our school’s leadership team. This allowed me a seat at the table to help develop school-wide policies and initiatives and be included on hiring panels.

Through presentations to my CUI colleagues and professors, I developed my “elevator pitch.” This has helped me as a department chair when advocating for our department’s needs and funding of programs. Throughout the courses, I learned how to determine “implementation drivers” and utilize data and implementation fidelity to strengthen our positions to keep costly instructional programs in our school budget.

Furthermore, through coursework, we learned how to conduct a culture action plan where we receive input regarding our school culture, identify specific needs, and develop a plan to implement necessary changes leveraging appropriate support from responsible personnel.

The literature and professors emphasized the value in interviewing stakeholders pre-implementation and post-implementation to ensure multiple perspectives are taken into consideration. This has strengthened my skills of fostering change.

Whether it is to prepare to pursue another position, advance a salary, improve instruction, or acquire stronger leadership skills, the M.A.Ed. in Educational Administration at CUI can provide a solution.

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Concordia University Irvine’s (CUI) M.A.Ed. Educational Administration with Preliminary Administrative Services Credential cohort-based program is designed to prepare future private or public K-12 education leaders. The program provides the opportunity for teachers to earn a California Preliminary Administrative Credential (PASC) while earning a master’s degree.

Candidates continue working while completing the graduate program as the program’s content, pacing, and structure were created with adult learners’ needs in mind. The rolling start dates make joining our program convenient as candidates can pick a term that works best for their busy schedule.

What differentiates Concordia University Irvine’s M.A.Ed. Educational Administration Program from other schools that offer similar programs?

The M.A.Ed. Educational Administration program is intentionally designed to include theoretical and practical applications necessary for successful school administration in the state of California. While students are completing their coursework, they also participate in the administrative practicum. The administrative practicum is a field-based experience that spans multiple terms whereby candidates receive hands-on experience under the guidance of a veteran practitioner, also known as a site supervisor.

In 2019 the California Administrator Performance Expectations (CAPEs) were adopted as course learning outcomes. This alignment of institutional and state outcomes has proven successful in preparing candidates to complete the California Administrator Performance Assessment Cycles (CalAPA). In the program, students take three leadership courses focused on equipping candidates for the CalAPA Cycles. By design, students are supported from the inception to the completion of the program.

How will this program help educators during this time of COVID and post-COVID teaching? How will it better prepare them for today’s education challenges?

Concordia University Irvine was well-poised for success when the COVID-19 pandemic occurred due to the program’s online format coupled with our team of expert practitioners. M.A.Ed. Educational Administration courses are taught by talented instructors who are content experts currently serving as administrators across the state.

The hands-on, working knowledge of our experienced instructors is invaluable to the success of our program and the student experience, especially during challenging times like those presented with the pandemic.

What career opportunities are available to students who graduate from the program? 

Upon completing the Educational Administration program, candidates can apply for their certificate of eligibility to become private and public school administrators. Processing a California Administrative Services Credential allows graduates to serve as educational leaders in various roles, including but not limited to:

• Assistant principal
• Principal
• Director
• Coordinator
• Superintendent

Why should a prospective student choose this program? Why should they choose Concordia University Irvine?

Academic excellence and Christ-like service are cornerstones of our M.A.Ed. Educational Administration program. Candidates can expect to receive a stellar education in an environment where they will be known, welcomed, and supported.

Concordia University Irvine recognizes the value of partnerships as a successful component of a graduation program. A unique benefit our candidates appreciate while in the administration program is their CUI-sponsored Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) membership.

Students in the M.A.Ed. Educational Administration program have the opportunity to join the ACSA network. CUI’s ACSA Student Chapter hosts monthly workshops where California administrators present timely and relevant content pertaining to the profession.

Another benefit afforded to candidates is completing a digital portfolio while enrolled in the program. Administrative candidates have autonomy in completing an online e-portfolio that reflects their unique experiences, gifts, and talents as educators. These portfolios serve as end products that can be shared with potential employers when seeking career advancement. CUI is more than a university; it is a family.

The post All About Concordia University Irvine’s M.A.Ed. Educational Administration Program appeared first on Concordia University Irvine.

Teachers sometimes need to vent their frustrations or obstacles. Still, when teachers’ burnouts leak into the hallways and classrooms, and de-energized teachers ignore behaviors they once would admonish, administrators need to create an action plan.

How Prevalent is Teacher Burnout? What Leads to Burnout?

Unfortunately, teacher burnout is more prevalent than any parent or stakeholder would expect. One may assume that the teachers experiencing burnout may have been in education “too long.” However, Leichtman (2021) states, “There is a clear link between burnout and attrition, and various studies show new teachers leaving the profession at alarming rates, ranging from 17% to 44%.” Burnout affects teachers at all stages of their careers.

Historically speaking, our country has seen an increase of teacher shortages for years due to high rates of burnout, but since the pandemic, ubiquitous, demoralized, and de-energized faces of teachers speak volumes. Burnout rates do not seem to be taking a downturn anytime soon.

Bourg Carter states that a case of burnout occurs when “chronic stress leads to physical and emotional exhaustion, cynicism and detachment, and feelings of ineffectiveness and lack of accomplishment” (2013). Within the context of education in our current society, one may target the following causes to this dysfunctional level of professional performance:

• The pandemic needs of students have increased, impacting the need for more support for learning gaps and social-emotional needs. These additional needs of students are potentially not funded or staffed, or both.
• Short staffing due to absences and the lack of candidates to hire has led to teachers covering other positions during their scheduled prep time. This results in teachers being short-changed from valuable time to collaborate, review learning assessments, and plan lessons. At some point, this time will need to be stolen from elsewhere, perhaps their personal time. Without enough personal time, teachers cannot rejuvenate and may feel imbalanced.
• While administrators and districts continue to reel from the pandemic’s ever-changing dynamics and policy changes, teachers may feel overlooked and underappreciated.
• Teachers who are newer to the profession may be overwhelmed with the logistics and responsibilities of the position. As stated by Townley and Schmieder-Ramirez, “Many programs do not adequately prepare teachers for the realities of the classroom” (2014, p. 61).
• The overall balance of professional needs outweighs the resources of time and energy. For example, new expectations may come with little support or the same teacher “leaders” continuously absorb the majority of additional work.

Why Is It Important to Address Teacher Burnout?

Burnout directly influences the rate of teacher shortages, including both the high turnover numbers and retirees. Furthermore, according to NPR (2002), there have been over half a million fewer teachers since before the COVID-19 pandemic, and approximately 43% of postings for educator positions are unfulfilled.

However, staffing is only one concern. Burnout is partnered with low morale, indifference, and higher absenteeism among teachers, which affects student learning and school climate.

Valuable Skills Gained in Concordia University Irvine’s M.A.Ed. Educational Administration Program

As I reflect on Concordia University Irvine’s M.A.Ed. Educational Administration Program, I consider the topics that could assist an administrator in addressing burnout among staff. Through readings, research, and coursework, I learned the importance of the following skills:

Servant Leadership

Considering how you can be of service and provide support is a mindset that effective leaders would use as motivation to alleviate some tasks for teachers and be creative in solution-finding.

Communicating Effectively

Having the skills to address conflicting interests among different stakeholders requires open, confident, clear, and calm communication.

Evaluating Data

Using qualitative and quantitative data to make school improvements and to assess evidence-based solutions, and direct administrators to make logical decisions to support staff.

Understanding the Budget

Understanding categories of funding and discerning how to use it allows for better resource allocation to provide for better supports.

Identifying and Sharing Resources

Showing investment in staff by offering opportunities specific to their needs and goals can result in staff feeling personally acknowledged and valued.

Ways Administrators can Support their Teachers to Reduce Burnout

When administrators recognize the strains and attrition of teachers, they should work towards alleviating chronic stressors.

Protect Staff’s Time

Offer to cover classrooms rather than other teachers covering during their preps. Limit meetings, and if held, make them efficient and purposeful. Allow input prior to meetings so the conversation takes off promptly. Recognize that less time in meetings allows more time for staff to balance their professional needs with their personal ones.

Listen and Troubleshoot

Offer time to work collaboratively with staff. Having an open-door policy will limit staff from feeling isolated or abandoned.

Personal Appreciation

Without cost, an administrator can influence a staff’s sense of belonging and worth through words, notes, and public shoutouts.

Share Trends and Schoolwide Needs

Participative leadership allows teachers to be part of the decision-making process, which supports teachers’ sense of value (Green, 2013). This interaction empowers educators to offer feedback and shape solutions that are congruent with their own needs and insights, but it also informs staff with transparency of why certain decisions need to be made.

Professional Development in Interest Areas

Encouraging teachers to identify a professional desire and to ask for resources to hone their craft gives them autonomy and respect. Furthermore, it may ignite new energy or invigorate a new sense of commitment and engagement to their profession.

Arrange/Find Resources in Community

Hiring district personnel to distribute more of the work can be expensive. However, some nonprofit organizations will complete services and subsidize the workload at a fraction of the cost. Similarly, volunteers, such as education majors from neighboring colleges, may be able to provide some support.

Leaning on skills and knowledge learned through an M.A.Ed. Educational Administration Program, an administrator can have a vision and direction to bolster staff morale, engagement, and self-efficacy, and hopefully, in turn, reduce the rates of teacher burnout.

References:
Bourg Carter, S. (2013, November 26). The tell tale signs of burnout…do you have them?: Running out of gas? Recognizing the signs of burnout before it’s too late. Psychology Today.
Green, R.L. (2013).  Practicing the art of leadership: A problem-based approach to implementing the ISLLC standards (4th ed.).  Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.
Kamenetz, A. (2022, February 1).  More than half of teachers are looking for the exits, a poll says. NPR.
Leichtman, K. (2021). How K-12 educators can fight burnout: A look at common contributors to burnout-and more importantly, the positive strategies teachers can use to fend it off. Edutopia.
Townley, A.J. & Schmieder-Ramirez. (2014).  School personnel administration/human resources: A California perspective (8th ed.). Dubuque, IA:  Kendall Hunt.

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With the cost of living skyrocketing, it can be daunting to face the reality of paying for furthering your education. However, many options make paying for education possible while also taking care of other financial responsibilities.

Types of Student Loans

Student loans are a great option for anyone thinking about going back to school to further their education and career. This was the method I chose while obtaining my undergraduate degree in biology and a postgraduate degree in education. Although repayments can be challenging at times, it is the simplest method to get the funds necessary to meet your educational goals.

There are several types of loans:

• Federal subsidized
• Federal unsubsidized
• Private

Federal loans are the best option as there are reimbursement programs geared toward educators who have been in the profession for several years. Federal loans have two options, subsidized and unsubsidized, and there are a few key differences between these two loan types. Subsidized loans are available to graduate students who can show financial need, and The U.S. Department of Education pays the interest on the loan while in school.

Unsubsidized loans are also offered to graduate students, but you are responsible for paying the interest, even while in school. For both loan types, you must seek a degree to receive a loan offer. You can see which loan type is available to you once you fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Before sitting down to complete the form, be prepared. You will need information from the previous year’s tax filing to complete the form, however, the whole process only takes about twenty minutes if you have all of your documents ready. Once the form has been submitted, you will receive a notification from the Office of U.S. Department of Education confirming that your form has been processed and the information has been sent to your selected schools.

Accepting and Repaying Student Loans

Accepting the loan offer from Concordia University Irvine is a straightforward process. The staff are always available to answer questions and provide support when calculating the amount needed to borrow. The financial aid offer will be well over the amount needed to cover your educational expenses in many cases.

It is advised that you only borrow the minimum amount needed to cover the tuition costs as the amount to be repaid can quickly add up. Concordia can help you identify the funds required and will only accept the amount you request. While enrolled in classes, you are not required to repay your loan; however, it is a great idea to consider repaying the loan as soon as possible.

Once you have graduated, you are given a six-month grace period to select a repayment plan that works for you before you are required to make payments. Before accepting the loan, it is a good idea to have a plan for repayment after your education is completed. This foresight will allow you to budget accordingly and not be surprised when the first payment is due.

FSA has a loan simulator where you can calculate your potential monthly payment based on your chosen repayment plan. This is a great tool when deciding which repayment plan is best for your budget and understanding how each repayment plan works.

Creating a Monthly Budget

Before enrolling in the Preliminary Administrative Services Credential (PASC) from Concordia University Irvine, my husband and I thought long and hard about our responsibility of repaying the student loans I was going to accumulate. He and I just finished paying off all of our debts and decided we would make every effort to live debt-free. However, the cost of tuition was not feasible for us to plan for a pay-as-you-go option, and we agreed that a student loan was the best option for us.

He and I already had a monthly budget spreadsheet that included how much money we were bringing in and our monthly obligations, such as subscriptions, cell phones, and daycare costs. We agreed that we had enough money coming in to afford to pay some of the loans while I was in school.

After submitting my FAFSA application, I was awarded an unsubsidized loan to cover the cost of tuition, which meant I would be responsible for interest accrued during my time enrolled in school. However, we were able to take advantage of the freeze in student loan interest and repayments due to the pandemic, allowing 100% of our payments to go towards the principal.

Keeping this in mind, we decided to pay $300 towards my master’s program each month, understanding that this number would go up once I graduated. In addition, based on the need for administrators in my district, I was confident that I would obtain an assistant principal position upon my graduation from Concordia University Irvine. This alone would give me a $45,000 pay increase per year, which would absolutely help to repay my student loans.

My husband and I agreed that we would increase the monthly payments to $1,000 per month once I was earning more income from my degree. Based on this repayment plan, my student loans would be paid within a year and a half of my completion of PASC, a manageable amount of time considering the increase in pay and the growth I have made as an educator through the PASC program.

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Easy-to-Find Information and a Streamlined Application Process

In the 21^st century, we have become accustomed to accessing information instantaneously, and when we can’t, we can become a bit frustrated. Concordia University Irvine’s website is deliberately concise and easy to navigate. The information is organized to be readily available for those considering CUI as the institution in which to complete a graduate degree.

CUI’s degree programs are well laid out with all important information posted and a link to request information and get questions answered. The online application for admission is not complicated to complete and submit. A link to the admissions staff is included, and the admissions staff is very responsive and helpful in the application process.

In addition, the website contains a lot of helpful information once an applicant becomes a student. Courses, calendars, textbooks, and instructor contact information are posted on the website. Applicants and students will find CUI’s website a great location to access vital information as they pursue a graduate degree.

Flexible Format

Typically, graduate students are already into the career mode, and many have families or elderly parents they are caring for. CUI offers flexible formatting for their online graduate degree programs allowing students to choose a timeline that compliments work scheduling and ensuring personal time. Coursework is entirely online with eight-week terms.

Students can take two courses every eight weeks and complete the degree in 12 months or take one course every eight weeks and complete the degree in 24 months. All learning sessions are completely asynchronous, with no face-to-face meetings required. Students choose how and when to work on and complete assigned work.

When involved in a group project, the group members determine how and when to engage. Blackboard, the learning management system used by CUI, has a group communication tool embedded to assist with group project communication and completion. Flexible formatting allows working adults to build time into their schedules to manage and complete their coursework to be awarded a graduate degree.

Accredited by WSCUC

For graduate students, selecting an accredited institution is an essential aspect of the process. Degrees awarded from accredited institutions are insured for being recognized as high quality. For example, Concordia University Irvine is accredited by WSCUC.

This accreditation is evidence-based; the university has gone through visits, both planned and spontaneous, to be sure that they comply with rigorous standards and have developed and implemented the Campus Effectiveness Plan. The university financial stability is reviewed annually, as are its retention and placement rates. The process for accreditation, which is done every ten years, is non-governmental, voluntary, and peer-based for an assurance of quality at CUI.

Programs for Student Success

For students, it is vital that their learning is linked to prior learning and that they have the time to dig deeper into current learning. As a student progresses through their coursework at CUI, they will find that each course builds needed skills to complete the capstone and builds the knowledge required to become an expert in what they choose for their capstone focus.

Students are required to write in the APA (American Psychological Association) writing style. This will be a new type of writing for many students, and it takes some practice to master this. The instructors of each course nurture these writing skills and coach students to become proficient APA writers before beginning their capstone. Additional support personnel that can be accessed through the library services to give input on written work and make suggestions for improvement prior to a piece of work being submitted.

Focusing on a course over an eight-week period is ideal in gaining a depth of knowledge about a particular aspect of what is being learned. The progression of courses builds upon each other and supports acquiring knowledge leading up to a student preparing their capstone. The capstone is intentionally built one section at a time in a logical order to complete in a timely manner and at a high level for the graduate degree to be awarded. In addition, the coursework is focused on current and cutting-edge aspects of the area of study for each graduate degree.

Highly Qualified Professors

CUI has selected highly qualified instructors that are committed to student success. These instructors are well-versed in their subject matter and have chosen current textbooks and pertinent support materials to enhance the learning that is to be gained from their courses.  They are readily available to answer questions and coach students to improve their APA writing skills and grow their understanding of the subject matter.

They respond promptly to emails and give input on the class discussion boards. They also gently challenge the learner to grow in their knowledge and explain that knowledge. The CUI graduate student will feel supported and encouraged to succeed beyond their initial understanding of their graduate degree. This institution of higher learning is genuinely a community of learners with well-chosen educational leaders.

There are many good reasons to attend Concordia University Irvine to pursue a graduate degree. Five significant reasons have been highlighted to shine a light on why CUI is an excellent choice for a potential graduate student.

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What Concerns Did You have Before Pursuing a Graduate Program?

I was initially motivated to pursue my master’s to secure the highest retirement salary I possibly could. Being a single parent, I felt I needed to support my daughter in completing her college education before investing in my educational pursuits. Working full-time as a middle school teacher also concerned me about the time required to complete an advanced degree because it is highly demanding of your time and energy.

In pulling the trigger on this educational goal, I intended to enroll in the program that had an in-person cohort component but clicked on the fully online program by mistake. I panicked when I realized this. The Concordia University Irvine staff was very accommodating when I called and told me it was an easy fix that they could help me with.

I took a minute to think this through and decided that perhaps there was a reason that I did not yet completely understand why I had clicked on the choice that I did. I opted to remain in the fully online program, even though it made me nervous.

Did You have any Reservations about a Fully Online Program?

Still questioning my choice, I was concerned about my level of technology skills. I had basic skills that came with working in the classroom and using the computer and internet as a tool for learning and managing the professional aspects of my career and personal life. I knew that the fully online format of this master’s program would challenge my tech skills and push me into growing them in ways I didn’t even know I could.

I also wondered how the interactive conversations, which enhance learning and are a part of group projects, would work with my fellow students in my cohort. I doubted that the interactions conducted entirely online would be as authentic and meet the high-level debate like I had experienced in the traditional college classrooms of my past.

In addition, I would be required to use American Psychological Association (APA) writing style for all written work, including my capstone. I had no idea what APA writing consisted of and if it would be difficult to apply.

How Did Concordia University Irvine’s Online Format Address Your Concerns?

Despite my nagging concerns about how I was to complete my master’s successfully, I hit the ground running as the first course began and never looked back as I progressed through each course in preparation to build and submit my capstone.

The Concordia University Irvine coursework is well designed and cutting-edge, and the course supporting texts and supplemental materials are well chosen. The courses build on each other to prepare for determining the focus of your capstone while the final courses guide you through compiling and completing your capstone in a timely manner.

I also found the instructors and professors to be extremely helpful and supportive. All of them are well versed in their subject areas and helped me grow my skills in technology and writing to succeed in completing my master’s degree. Whenever I asked for help when I got stuck using the technology and Blackboard (the course management system) or requested input on the writing I worked on, my instructors got back to me in no time with assistance and great input to continue growing and learning.

Because the program had me taking a course at a time, completing all of the reading, assignments, and group work was very doable while working full-time. I managed my college coursework in the evenings and on weekends and still had time to invest in the things outside of work and college that brought me joy and built a healthy lifestyle.

How did You Foster Connection and Collaboration with Your Cohorts and Professors?

Like most new things, there was a learning curve to the interactions with peers in the online discussions and building the teamwork needed to complete a group project. I appreciated that this was done in baby steps. As my cohort progressed through the courses and got to know each other on a more personal level, the communication and discussions also became more complex and valuable in supporting my learning.

In Your Opinion, What are the Top Advantages of Concordia University Irvine’s Online M.A.Ed. Curriculum and Instruction Program?

I thoroughly enjoyed this learning experience and highly recommend Concordia University Irvine’s online master’s program. The format of taking one course at a time and the ability to complete the work on my own timeline helped me to successfully complete the program on time. The fact that all departments of Concordia staff are supportive and desire to see their students succeed is an added bonus, and what is learned in this master’s program is current and applicable to the classroom.

Concordia University Irvine has a highly developed technology department which was another support piece to this online master’s program. They are easy to contact and are very helpful in supporting students as you grow your use of technology as a tool of 21^st-century education. In addition, Concordia’s library has an abundance of materials to access throughout your course work and the capstone.

As for that divine intervention, the fully online format of this master’s program prepared me very well for the unexpected school shut down and shift to online and hybrid formats because of the COVID-19 pandemic. I was much more prepared to navigate the course management system my K-12 district selected, assist students in preparing and submitting their online assignments, and help peers troubleshoot online learning for their classes.

If you’re looking for an online master’s program, I definitely suggest checking out Concordia University Irvine’s!

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