These settings include but are not limited to community college, vocational programs, adult basic skills programs, professional development for business and industry, and military training. It is anticipated that students will come from a variety of backgrounds, most having a bachelor’s degree with some additional work and some having master’s degrees in other areas. ​

• This program does not lead to initial teaching certification.
• Teaching certificate is not required for admission into program. 
• This is an online accelerated program with 6-week academic sessions. For more information about this program visit our website. 

Admissions Requirements

1. Have earned a baccalaureate degree (either a BA or BS) from an accredited institution of higher education.
2. Have earned a GPA ≥3.0 on a 4–point-scale during the final 90 quarter credits (or 60 semester credits) of enrolled coursework.

Plan of Study

Courses could be offered in different terms, checking with the academic department is paramount in keeping an individual plan current.

Expedited Pace Plan

Typical Pace Plan

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First half of term.

²

Second half of term.

Students who earn an M.Ed. in Adult Education from EWU should be able to:

• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of adult learning theories and characteristics of adult learners - Graduates will identify and explain the characteristics of adult learners and the theories that guide effective adult instruction;
• Apply effective strategies and techniques for teaching adults in diverse settings - Graduates will articulate and apply a comprehensive set of strategies and instructional techniques appropriate for teaching adults in postsecondary, community, corporate, military, and workforce training environments;
• Design, implement, and evaluate instructional programs for adult learners - Graduates will develop instructional programs, curricula, and assessments that align with adult education principles and meet the needs of diverse adult learning populations;
• Demonstrate understanding of the structure, functions, and operational systems of postsecondary and adult education institutions - Graduates will analyze and explain the organization and operational frameworks of institutions such as community colleges, vocational programs, adult basic skills programs, and workforce development systems;
• Apply research methods and evidence‑based practices to adult education problems and instructional decisions - Graduates will demonstrate proficiency in educational research methods and use research to inform instructional design, program evaluation, and decision‑making;
• Use effective instructional strategies that promote active learning, engagement, and learner success - Graduates will implement teaching practices designed to enhance active learning and improve outcomes for adult students;
• Integrate technology, media, and innovative instructional design approaches to support adult learning - Graduates will use technology‑enhanced learning tools, online instructional design principles, and media‑rich strategies to meet the needs of adult learners in multiple delivery formats;
• Demonstrate cultural competence, ethical responsibility, and inclusive practices in adult education environments - Graduates will design and facilitate learning with sensitivity to multicultural contexts, diverse learning styles, and ethical considerations in adult education settings;
• Critically examine current issues, challenges, and trends in adult and postsecondary education - Graduates will identify and analyze contemporary issues affecting adult education, such as workforce demands, societal changes, technology integration, and institutional challenges;
• Demonstrate professional readiness through supervised internship, portfolio development, and applied experiences - Graduates will complete a supervised internship and produce a portfolio demonstrating competency in adult education practice, instructional design, and reflective professional development.