Earn your Master of Science in Education from a Top-ranked University
Online Master of Science in Education in Effective Teaching
Next Application Deadline: June 30, 2025
2 Years to Complete // $535/Credit // 32 Credit Hours
The Master of Science in Education: Effective Teaching program is 100% online, while still providing the integral Drake experience. Drake’s School of Education faculty provide an online learning experience that mimics the high-quality in-person classes at the university, with discussion boards to connect you with your fellow students.
The program is a practitioner’s degree focused on improving instructional practices that engage learners and promote academic success. Take classes anywhere, at any time, with six start dates each year. If you’re looking to bring your teaching skills to the next level and increase your earning potential, the MSE in Effective Teaching is for you.
Note: This program does not provide nor lead to a teaching license or certification.
With no GRE or GMAT requirements, and no application fee, we invite you to get started on your application today!
Have a specific question? Email us at drakeonline@drake.edu.
100% Online
6 Start Dates a Year
No Application Fee
Enhance Your Teaching Career by Practicing New Skills
Drake’s online Master of Science in Education in Effective Teaching is designed for educators who want to grow their expertise, refine their instructional methods, and create a greater impact in education. This program helps you build the skills needed to engage students more effectively and enhance learning outcomes in any classroom setting. Upon completing the program, you'll be able to:
- Apply models of effective teaching to improve student engagement and achievement.
- Use research-based strategies to inform your instruction and decision-making.
- Lead as an instructional expert, shaping best practices in your school and beyond.
- Promote collaboration among educators, students, and communities.
- Design, develop, and implement instructional inquiries that drive continuous improvement.
With an emphasis on methods and pedagogy, this program equips teachers with fresh techniques to enhance their effectiveness and advance to roles like master educator, instructional coach, content specialist, or curriculum lead.
- The demand for education professionals is projected to grow 7 percent from 2021 to 2031.
- Educators with a master’s degree earn an average base salary of $63,000 per year.
Contemporary and Innovative Education Curriculum
Taught by the same experienced faculty as Drake’s on-campus programs, the 100% online MSE in Effective Teaching emphasizes research-driven teaching methods that you can apply immediately in your classroom. Courses are designed for meaningful discussion and collaboration, allowing you to learn from faculty as well as fellow educators with unique perspectives and ideas.
For teachers with an Iowa teaching license, this program also offers the opportunity to earn additional endorsements, including:
- Reading Specialist (requires previous reading endorsement)
- Talented and Gifted
MSE Core Curriculum
Core Curriculum - 17 Credits
| Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| EMSE 205: Effective Teaching | 3 |
| EMSE 207: Best Practices in Content Areas | 3 |
| EMSE 209: Balanced Assessment for Learning | 3 |
| EMSE 211: Academic Research and Writing | 3 |
| EMSE 213: Culturally Responsive Teaching | 2 |
| EMSE 215: Meeting the Needs of All Students | 3 |
Reading Specialist Endorsement Curriculum
Reading Specialist Electives - 21 Credits
Students wishing to receive their endorsement must already have received the Reading endorsement, and a transcripts will be reviewed before moving forward to confirm. This is only available to teachers with an Iowa license.
| Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| EDUC 260: Des & Impl Prof Learn in Lit | 3 |
| EDUC 280: Case Studies in Literacy Education | 3 |
| EDUC 281: Writing Research and Theory | 3 |
| EDUC 285: Research-Based Effective Literacy Models | 3 |
| EDUC 287: Reading Research and Theory | 3 |
| EDUC 288: Data Analysis Inform Lit Inst | 3 |
| EDUC 289: Managing School-Wide Change Through Coaching | 3 |
Talented and Gifted Endorsement Curriculum
Talented and Gifted Electives - 15 Credits
| Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Psychology of the Gifted | |
| EDUC 291: Introduction to Gifted Education | 3 |
| EDUC 292: Social Emotional Needs of Gifted | 2 |
| EDUC 293: Creativity and Gifted | 2 |
| EDUC 294: Special Populations of Gifted | 1 |
| Programming for the Gifted | |
| EDUC 212: Challenging Young Gifted Children | 1 |
| EDUC 295: Curriculum and Assessment of Gifted | 3 |
| EDUC 296: Differentiated Instruction for Gifted Learners | 1 |
| EDUC 290: Administration and Supervision of Gifted Programs | 1 |
| Practicum Experience | |
| EDUC 210: Practicum in Gifted Education | 1 |
Admission Requirements for the MSE in Effective Teaching
To be eligible to enroll for the MSE, applicants must have earned a bachelor’s degree from an institution accredited by the Higher Learning Commission or comparable association. No GRE or GMAT is required for admission.
Application Steps
You will find the basic steps for applying below. In depth details, such as information for international students and where to send your transcripts, can be found at the bottom of this section under the dropdown titled “Application Step Details”.
- Click here to open the graduate application portal.
- Create or log in to an existing account.
- Fill out the information required on the application. Please be prepared to provide information such as basic personal details, previous institutions attended, and current employment.
- Submit copies of transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities.
- Unofficial transcripts may be used for admittance. Upon acceptance, applicants will need to supply official transcripts in the application portal within 30 days after the start of the first course.
- Submit contact information for two professional recommendations.
Application Step Details
Transcript Information
Mail transcripts to:
Drake University
Attn: Drake Online & Continuing Education
2507 University Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50311
Or email:
Transfer Credits
Students may be eligible to complete six to seven credit hours before being admitted to a program. Please contact drakeonline@drake.edu for specific details.
International Students
If a student earned their undergraduate degree outside of the United States, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is required. Scores dated within the last two years are acceptable and must be reported directly from the testing agency. Minimum acceptable TOEFL score is 213 on the computer-based exam, 550 on the paper-based exam, or 79-80 on the Internet-based exam. Minimum acceptable IELTS score is 6.5. Minimum scores on each section of reading, writing, speaking and listening may be required.
Duolingo test also accepted (minimum score of 110).
Tuition Details
Drake University is committed to providing a high-quality education at an exceptional value. Our online Master of Science in Education program, priced at $535 per credit hour, equips you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to advance your career. This investment ensures you graduate with the expertise needed to stand out and make a meaningful impact in your field.
Begin Your Path to Career Growth Today
Start your MSE degree on your schedule with our flexible, fully online courses! With six start dates, you can begin your studies at your convenience. Our core curriculum is comprised of accelerated 6-week courses are 100% asynchronous with no required weekly meetings, so you can study anytime, anywhere. This flexible format makes it easy to balance coursework with your busy life. Check the calendar below to find the upcoming application deadlines and start dates.
| Semester | Start Date | Application Deadline | Registration Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer Term 2 | 07/07/25 | 6/30/25 | 07/03/25 |
| Fall Term 1 | 08/25/25 | 8/18/25 | 08/21/25 |
| Fall Term 2 | 10/20/25 | 10/13/25 | 10/16/25 |
| Spring Term 1 | 01/26/26 | 01/19/26 | 01/22/26 |
| Spring Term 2 | 03/23/26 | 03/16/26 | 03/19/26 |
About the School of Education
The School of Education at Drake University is a diverse community of collaborative learners dedicated to the preparation, licensure, advancement, and continuing education of teachers, counselors, school administrators, and other leaders of learning communities. The School of Education has an exceptional record of preparing highly effective elementary and secondary teachers, school counselors, principals, superintendents, and specialists working in training and organizational development in the corporate and non-profit sectors. The School of Education prepares, supports, and inspires their students to lead and serve in a constantly changing world.
In addition to University accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission, all certification and endorsement programs within the School of Education are approved and accredited by the Iowa Department of Education, pursuant to Chapter 79, Code of Iowa.
If you're now prepared to advance in your career, we're waiting at the ready to review your application. Apply for free today!
