MEd, Curriculum Studies
Join a transformative and culturally grounded graduate program dedicated to developing teacher-leaders for middle level education (Grades 4–9) across Hawai‘i. The MEd-CS Middle Level Education program equips educators with the pedagogical, social-emotional, and culturally responsive skills needed to engage and empower early adolescents.
This 30-credit Master of Education program is rooted in Hawai‘i’s diverse educational contexts. It emphasizes workforce development, interdisciplinary curriculum, and strong professional networks. Through a combination of ten online courses grounded in local cultural instruction, candidates grow into reflective leaders who can shape learning communities aligned with Nā Hopena A‘o (HĀ) values and 21st-century needs. This unique cohort program supports graduate candidates through a collaboration between the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa College of Education and the Hawaiʻi Association of Middle-Level Education (HAMLE), drawing upon the 18 Characteristics of Effective Middle Schools from the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE).
Who Should Consider This Program
This program is designed for:
- Grade 4–9 educators seeking specialization in middle-level pedagogy
- Curriculum coordinators, instructional coaches, and teacher-leaders
- Educators passionate about student-centered, place-based learning
- Candidates from rural, underserved, and Native Hawaiian-serving schools
Common Careers
Graduates are prepared to serve as:
- Middle school educators and curriculum leaders
- Grade-level coordinators and academic coaches
- Community college instructors or professional development facilitators
- Equity-driven leaders in DOE and independent school contexts
Admission Requirements
-
Must have graduated from an accredited, four-year institution of higher education recognized by the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa (UHM), prior to beginning the MEd, Curriculum Studies: Middle (and Secondary) School Level program.
-
An Undergraduate Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
-
A transcript from each post-secondary institution attended.
-
A written statement of objectives as part of your application.
-
Your resumé or CV.
-
Three (3) letters of recommendation
-
Applicants who are not native English speakers may need to take the TOEFL or IELTS, or Duolingo (Academic) tests.
For more information view the Graduate Division website.
-
International students that have been admitted are required to submit a copy of their Identification documents (i.e. Passport or Identification Card)
-
International applicants need to show proof of sufficient funding to cover all educational and living expenses
How to Apply
Course of Study
A total of 10 courses (30 credits) to be completed over 5 semesters, including summers. Cohorts may begin in the Spring, Summer, or Fall semesters.
Spring I (6 Credits)
- EDCS 695 Plan B Capstone (3)
- EDCS 650 SEL (3)
Summer I (6 Credits)
- EDCS 640M Technology Integration (3)
- EDCS 622D Middle-Level Curriculum (3)
Fall I (6 Credits)
- EDCS 606 Indigenous Research (3)
- EDCS 654 Ethnomathematics (3)
Spring II (6 Credits)
- EDCS 632 Qualitative Research (3)
- EDCS 630 Culturally Responsive Pedagogy (3)
Fall II (6 Credits)
- EDCS 667 Portfolio Seminar (3)
- EDCS 640P Place-Based Education (3)
Capstone Project
Each candidate will complete an ePortfolio aligned with:
- The 18 AMLE Characteristics of Effective Middle Schools
- Hawaiʻi State Professional Teaching Standards and Nā Hopena A’o or HĀ Cultural Values
- HIDOE Strategic Middle-Level & Workforce Development Goals
Program Goals
- Develop statewide teacher leaders committed to place-based and culturally sustaining instruction
- Enhance adolescent student outcomes in engagement, equity, and achievement
For a full listing of courses, see the MEd-CS Handbook 1: Prospective and New Students.
