For the first time ever, graduate students will have an opportunity to earn a master’s degree completely online from the College of Education and a master’s degree from the College of Science and Technology thanks to two new programs offered by the School of Graduate Studies at Southern Arkansas University, Magnolia.
“The addition of these programs was made possible by the work of many individuals across the University,” said Dr. Kim Shirey, interim dean of the School of Graduate Studies.
The two new programs are a master of science in computer and information science and an online master of education in elementary or secondary education with a curriculum and instruction focus.
“The master of science degree will be the first master’s degree program in the College of Science and Technology,” said Shirey. “Students should have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. Those with a bachelor’s degree in other areas will be considered and may be required to take up to four undergraduate courses, determined by an advisor.”
This program will provide a solid foundation in computer hardware and software, systems design, communications, and project/team management skills, particularly in the networking environment. It will provide students the training and information for an enduring foundation needed for future professional growth.
Specific career tracks anticipated for graduates include information system project management, system analyst and design or development specialist, data manager, and pre-Ph.D. and MD research assistant data managers.
The new online master of education degree will utilize Blackboard courseware and will be delivered entirely via the Internet to enable working professional educators great flexibility in completing their advanced educational studies.
“Students will be able to apply for admission and take courses online,” said Shirey. “They will be advised by phone or through e-mail.”
This program is designed to promote individual change within the professional practice of the educators enrolled in the program. It is directed toward the critical analysis of the philosophical, historical, and empirical foundations of curriculum development and the impact of diverse cultural influences on teaching and learning.
Students will be admitted into a cohort grouping of students that will progress through sequenced courses required of all members. The cohort concept is intended to provide cohesiveness to the students’ studies that establishes a core of learning relationships throughout the program.
They will also be able to demonstrate competencies outlined by the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards as well as the competencies that have been established for the graduate programs at SAU.
To take advantage of one of these exciting new master’s degree programs at Southern Arkansas University, call the School of Graduate Studies at 870-235-4150 or visit their website at http://www.saumag.edu/academics/graduate_studies/.
