MEd, Educational Foundations
This master’s, with a focus on Private School Leadership, is a 30-credit, cohort-based program completed over 16 months. Tailored to equip students with the transformational leadership skills needed for guiding independent schools in the 21st century, the program emphasizes practical and impactful learning.
Designed to challenge and engage experienced educators, the curriculum blends formal instruction with collaborative learning, action research, and mentorship from expert faculty and educational leaders. This dynamic approach fosters a supportive network of professionals that extends beyond the classroom.
The program is accessible to learners in Hawai‘i, on the mainland and internationally, offering a flexible blend of online, hybrid, and in-person courses. To maximize the learning experience, students attend accelerated summer sessions in Hawai‘i, immersing themselves for three weeks each summer.
Virtual Information Sessions
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Why this program?
- It’s efficient: Earn a 30-credit Master of Education degree in just 16 months
- It’s collaborative: Join a cohort of learners; receive strong ongoing academic support
- It’s connected: Build a global professional network with your classmates and H.A.I.S.
- It’s cost-effective: Just $19,500 US covers all tuition costs *
- It’s your research: Use your classroom or school initiatives as a component of the program.
- It’s recognized: Graduates from previous cohorts hold leadership positions at large and small independent schools throughout Hawai’i, on the US mainland, and around the world.
* Tuition and other University fees will be invoiced through the University of Hawai‘i over the four terms of the program. Additional expenses include an application fee, books, travel, and housing (if applicable).
Who should consider this program
Passionate educators who care about their students and school communities. Educators who appreciate the necessity of preparing students for an increasingly complex world.
This program develops leaders who understand the unique environments of independent schools and prepares them to lead with empathy, passion, and integrity.
Hawai’i Association of Independent Schools (HAIS) and the College of Education, of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, jointly offer a master’s degree program that focuses on educational leadership in the unique setting of the private school. The program is designed to meet the needs of leaders and aspiring leaders in independent schools – locally, nationally and internationally – be they administrators, teachers or other types of educators. The program’s curriculum blends research-based knowledge with the wisdom of experienced private school leaders.
Students in the MEd-PSL will complete work in residence for two consecutive summer terms, each three weeks, and engage in field work during the two intervening semesters at their homeschools.
Common Careers
Graduates of Master of Education in Private School Leadership use their degree for career advancement in multiple ways. Teachers pursue this master’s degree to inform their practice at the community, school, and classroom levels, while others benefit professionally from this degree because it can enable career transitions to positions of leadership within school systems, universities, or in other education organizations.
This degree is also valuable for preparing candidates for doctoral study in education. Many students go on to pursue a Doctorate in Education in Professional Educational Practice. Given the broadly applicable nature of the courses in this master’s program, there are many possibilities.
Admission Requirements
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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, Educational Foundations program.
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An Undergraduate Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
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A transcript from each post-secondary institution attended.
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A written statement of objectives as part of your application.
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Your resumé or CV.
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You may also include a sample of scholarly writing for consideration with your application to this program.
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Two (2) letters of recommendation
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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.
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International students that have been admitted are required to submit a copy of their Identification documents (i.e. Passport or Identification Card)
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International applicants need to show proof of sufficient funding to cover all educational and living expenses
How to Apply
