Master of Education Subjects to Build Your Teaching Career

For many educators, a graduate degree marks the next step in strengthening classroom impact and expanding career opportunities. Whether your passion lies in shaping inclusive learning environments, deepening subject matter expertise, or qualifying for advanced roles, a master’s degree in education can provide the structure and support you need to grow professionally.

While many institutions offer a Master of Education, Alliant International University provides a Master of Arts in Education, a program focused on subject mastery, practical training, and credential preparation.

When considering how to deepen your expertise in education, it helps to first understand the Master of Education subjects that form the backbone of effective graduate-level teacher preparation. This article explores the key subject areas commonly found in master level education programs and how these topics support both professional readiness and teaching effectiveness.

MAE Overview

What Is the Master of Arts in Education (MAE)?

Although the titles Master of Arts in Education (MAE) and Master of Education (M.Ed) are sometimes used interchangeably, they are distinct in focus and intent. The MAE is typically designed to:

• Support educators working toward subject-specific credentials
• Strengthen classroom-based teaching skills through applied learning 
• Prepare students for licensure and direct entry into the teaching profession

By contrast, the M.Ed often centers on broader topics such as policy, administration, or educational research.

At Alliant International University, the teaching credential program leading to an MAE is tailored to educators seeking to develop instructional expertise. With three specialized tracks, the program provides a comprehensive experience grounded in real-world teaching needs.

It also offers the opportunity to grow alongside experienced faculty committed to helping students succeed in the core subjects that form the foundation of effective, impactful teaching. The goal is to support those looking to pursue meaningful and rewarding teaching careers, answering some of the most important reasons to be a teacher.

Core Master of Education Subjects That Can Build a Strong Teaching Foundation

A well-rounded MAE program introduces educators to a variety of subject areas that support both theoretical understanding and practical application, providing essential tools for success in diverse areas. Seven course topics in particular are commonly included in teacher preparation programs:

Learning Theories and Instructional Design

Understanding how students learn is essential for designing lessons that support different cognitive and developmental needs. Courses in this area explore foundational learning models and how to apply them in varied instructional environments.

Ultimately, these learning theories help prepare educators to make informed choices about instruction, including how to:¹

• Examine behavioral, cognitive, and social learning theories 
• Analyze how learning styles influence engagement and retention 
• Apply theory to lesson instruction to support diverse learners

These subjects help future teachers become intentional, reflective practitioners whose classroom management methods align with student needs.

Classroom Management and Student Engagement

An enriching learning environment depends on clear expectations, routines, and a culture of reciprocity. Through classroom management and student engagement courses, educators prepare to build structured classrooms where students feel supported and motivated to learn. Teachers learn practical strategies to:²

• Develop proactive approaches to managing classroom behavior 
• Foster positive relationships and community within the classroom 
• Implement restorative practices and culturally responsive discipline 
• Maintain student attention and participation through engagement techniques

Student engagement techniques help educators create learning experiences where students feel safe to take risks and actively participate in their learning journey.

Assessment and Data-Driven Instruction

Educators use assessment not just to measure progress but also to guide meaningful decisions that benefit every learner. To that end, students in this course learn how to:³

• Design fair and purposeful assessments aligned with learning goals
• Use rubrics, checklists, or informal tools to plan next steps
• Analyze student data to spot trends, gaps, and opportunities
• Offer feedback that supports reflection and motivates growth

By mastering these tools, future educators learn to view assessment as a lens for equity, empowerment, and progress. It is a key step in earning the trust and growth of their students.

Equity, Inclusion, and Cultural Responsiveness in Education

No two classrooms are the same. Each one reflects a wide spectrum of experiences, identities, and needs. Through Master of Education programs, teachers learn how to create spaces where every student feels seen, valued, and supported.

To that end, this course focuses on:⁴

• Applying frameworks that celebrate cultural diversity in everyday teaching
• Reflecting on bias and dismantling systemic barriers in educational settings 
• Supporting multilingual learners and students with diverse abilities
• Choosing content and materials that reflect a wide range of voices and experiences

Educational Psychology and Development

Educational psychology and development explore the relationship between learning and stages of human development, inviting future teachers to recognize what students need at different ages and how to respond. Along the way, they will:

• Examine key developmental milestones and learning theories 
• Explore how motivation, memory, and behavior connect in the classroom
• Understand the impact of trauma and stress on student performance 
• Apply developmental insights to support whole-child learning

With this foundation, teachers are better prepared to build supportive, compassionate classrooms where students can thrive both academically and personally.

Curriculum Planning and Standards Alignment

Behind every great lesson is thoughtful planning. A strong curriculum connects student goals with state standards and meaningful learning experiences. Educators learn how to design instruction that not only meets academic expectations but also inspires curiosity and builds lasting understanding.

In this area of study, educators learn to:⁵

• Identify clear learning goals and connect them to state-aligned benchmarks
• Build cohesive units that develop knowledge over time
• Weave together concepts across subjects for a richer learning experience
• Strengthen instructional design through collaboration and feedback

By focusing on both structure and creativity, teachers can develop the skills to plan with purpose and teach with impact.

Technology Integration in Modern Classrooms

Digital literacy and instructional technology are essential components of modern education. They represent a core part of how students learn, connect, and create.

In this course, educators explore how to use digital tools with purpose, enhancing instruction while building critical skills for the modern world. In particular, they will learn to:⁶

• Integrate platforms and apps that support instruction and assessment
• Teach digital citizenship and promote safe, responsible tech use 
• Design lessons that include multimedia, interactivity, and real-time feedback 
• Modify instruction for virtual, blended, and tech-rich classroom environments

With these tools, educators can prepare their students to thrive in a connected, tech-driven world.

Exploring Upcoming MAE Programs

Alliant International University offers three distinct MAE pathways, each aligned with a specific focus in education. These programs combine foundational coursework with credential preparation, allowing students to move directly from graduate study into the classroom.

MAE in Special Education

Designed for those passionate about inclusive education, the MAE in special education equips students with the knowledge and tools needed to advocate for learners with exceptional needs and to champion equity in every classroom. Through immersive coursework and hands-on experience, students gain the skills to:⁷

• Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
• Support learners with a range of disabilities and unique learning profiles
• Collaborate with families, specialists, and interdisciplinary teams to offer support

Graduates of the program are empowered to build welcoming classrooms where every student can thrive. Whether working in public schools, private institutions, or specialized settings, educators trained in this program are prepared to navigate the complexities of special education.

MAE in Single Subject Teaching Credential

The MAE in single-subject teaching credential may be the perfect fit for individuals who want to teach one content area (such as math or history) at the middle or high school level.⁸ It blends academic depth with real-world classroom preparation, helping future educators translate subject matter expertise into engaging instruction for adolescents.

Coursework focuses on:

• Deepening content knowledge in a chosen subject area
• Developing strategies to engage adolescents and differentiate instruction
• Building classroom management and communication skills
• Preparing for subject-specific credentialing exams required for licensure

This degree also offers a clear pathway into secondary education, allowing teachers to enter subject-specific classrooms with confidence.

MAE with Teaching Credentials

This program offers a balanced entry into the teaching profession for future educators interested in general education classrooms. The MAE with teaching credential combines rigorous graduate-level coursework with practical preparation for the credentialing process, offering both depth and direction for those beginning their careers in elementary or middle school education.

Students in this program develop the skills to:⁹

• Integrate foundational educational theory into daily instruction
• Design effective lessons for multiple learning styles and developmental levels
• Navigate state certification requirements with personalized guidance
• Create a portfolio that showcases teaching competencies and experience

This MAE is an all-in-one program that provides a launchpad for educators ready to step into the classroom with clarity, purpose, and the skillset to support diverse learners.

How to Choose the Right MAE Track for Your Teaching Goals

Choosing the right path when you pursue a master’s degree can make all the difference in aligning your graduate education with your long-term goals. So, do you need a master's degree to be a teacher? No, you don’t. However, the credential programs at Alliant are designed to support different teaching interests and professional directions.

Here are key questions to ask yourself when evaluating which track to earn your degree through:

• Do I want to specialize or generalize? The Single-Subject and Special Education tracks allow you to dive deep into one area, while the Teaching Credential program prepares you for a broader range of grade levels.
• Where do I want to teach? Consider whether you’re drawn to K–5 classrooms, middle/high school content areas, or specialized support settings.
• What kind of impact do I want to make? Each track offers a different lens, from subject mastery to equity-focused instruction, so think about where you want to make the biggest difference.

Answering these questions can help you identify the program that meets your credentialing requirements and matches your personal mission as an educator.

How a Master’s Program May Support Your Growth as an Educator

Completing a master’s degree in education can offer both personal and professional transformation. From building content expertise to developing instructional confidence, graduate study provides the structure and mentorship to help future educators succeed.

Through an MAE program, students can:

• Strengthen instructional strategies grounded in research and practice 
• Develop skills to support diverse and multilingual learners
• Receive mentorship from experienced educators and credentialed supervisors
• Gain classroom experience through student-teaching opportunities

At Alliant, credential preparation is built into the program, streamlining the process for students to move from coursework to classroom leadership.

Career Paths After Earning a Master of Arts in Education 

What can you do with an education degree? Completing a master’s degree in education not only deepens instructional skills—it also expands the range of career opportunities available to educators. While many graduates go on to become classroom teachers, others use their MAE to step into roles that influence education at a broader level.

Some common pathways for MAE graduates include:

• Instructional Coach or Curriculum Specialist: Supporting fellow teachers with lesson design, instructional strategy, and standards alignment.
• Education Program Coordinator: Managing curriculum and programming in nonprofits, afterschool programs, or community education initiatives.
• Special Education Consultant: Providing support across districts for inclusion planning and IEP compliance.
• School Administrator (with additional credentials): Guiding school-wide initiatives in equity, academic performance, and teacher development.

Graduates who pursue these paths often build on their classroom experience to lead, coach, or design educational systems with greater reach and impact.

Start Building Your Future in Education Today

Whether you want to specialize in special education, teach a subject you love, or build the foundational skills for classroom success, the teaching programs at Alliant International University are designed to support every step of your development.

With access to expert faculty, hands-on field experiences, and a curriculum rooted in inclusive, evidence-based practices, you will graduate prepared to create a lasting impact in diverse education settings.

To learn more about how teaching programs at Alliant can support your future, connect with a counselor. Your classroom is waiting—and your teaching journey starts here.

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Sources: 

1. Mustafa H. Gandhi. “Learning Theories.” National Library of Medicine. July 17, 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562189/. Accessed May 18, 2025.
2. Selena Kiser. “Keys to Effective Classroom Management.” The K-12 Teachers Alliance. August 30, 2022. https://www.graduateprogram.org/blog/keys-to-effective-classroom-manage…. Accessed May 18, 2025.
3. Editorial Team. “What is Data-Driven Instruction?” Resilient Educators. February 28, 2023. https://resilienteducator.com/classroom-resources/data-driven-instructi…. Accessed May 18, 2025.
4. “Culturally Responsive Teaching.” National Equity Project. 2025. https://www.nationalequityproject.org/culturally-responsive-teaching. Accessed May 18, 2025.
5. Victoria Hegwood. “Standards Alignment in Elementary Education.” Prodigy. December 11, 2024. https://www.prodigygame.com/main-en/blog/standards-alignment-in-element…. Accessed May 18, 2025.
6. Sarah Schneider Kavanagh, Tess Bernhard. “Managing Tech Integration in Your Classroom.” Edutopia. January 9, 2023. https://www.edutopia.org/article/managing-tech-integration-classroom/. Accessed May 18, 2025.
7. Janelle Cox. “What can You Do with a Special Education Degree?” The K-12 Teachers Alliance. October 15, 2021. https://www.graduateprogram.org/blog/what-can-you-do-with-a-special-edu…. Accessed May 18, 2025.
8. “Single Subject Teaching Credential Requirements for Teachers Prepared in California.” CA Commision on Teacher Credentialing. May 2021. https://www.ctc.ca.gov/credentials/leaflets/Single-Multiple-Subject-Cre…-(CL-560C). Accessed May 18, 2025.
9. Tracy Bruno. “Why I Chose to Pursue a Master’s Degree with Initial Teacher Certification.” The K-12 Teachers Alliance. 2025. https://www.graduateprogram.org/blog/why-i-chose-to-pursue-a-masters-de…. Accessed May 18, 2025.