Frequently Asked Questions about the Master of Arts in Education

Q:   How long is the program? 
A:   For those taking it after achievement of a teaching credential it may be completed in three semesters. For those taking it after achievement of the Preliminary Administrative Services Credential from Simpson, it may be completed in two semesters.

Q:   Are there loans available for the M.A. in Education? 
A:   Yes, there are several packages. Talk to the enrollment counselor in admissions. Simpson has an excellent support system to help students navigate the ins and outs of financial aid. You must take at least 5 units of graduate work each semester to qualify for financial aid.

Q:   Can I start any fall, summer, or spring semester? 
A:   Yes. Classes are held in the evening and weekends during these semesters. You can start at the beginning of any semester.

Q:   What are the academic requirements for admission into the M.A. in Education?
A:   You must have at least a 2.5 GPA in the last 60 semester hours or submit passing scores on the GRE test.

Q:   How many courses are there? 
A:   In addition to the teaching credential there are five more classes, plus a research choice of thesis or two courses. The program contains 35 units of work, if you go the non-thesis route. It is 33 units if you go with the thesis option. There is also a 6-unit Bible prerequisite, which may be satisfied with the 3-unit course ED 6020 Instructional Strategies of Christ. In addition to the Preliminary Administrative Services Credential there are three more courses plus the Bible requirement.      

Q:   How do I get started?
A:   Apply online at http://www.simpsonuniversity.edu/apply/index.htm. Then contact Enrollment Services at (530) 226-4606 or 1-888-9-SIMPSON. They will help you with the application process. You may also visit the Education Office, Grubbs Learning Center (library), Room 101, and we will be happy to talk with you.

Q:   What else is special about Simpson's Master of Arts in Education Program? 
A:   We have the best program! Our M.A. students have a great reputation for being teachers and leaders in education. Many of them add the administrative credential to their education and serve as principals and superintendents.We have super professors and staff who will take time for you and encourage you every step of the way. Working with you will be five full-time professors plus several adjunct professors who are current or former educators. Your professors are:

• Dr. Al Rocca (Director of the M.A.; Research & Writing)
• Dr. Richard Harris (Educational Leadership)
• Dr. Ron McGraw (Foundations & Trends)
• Dr. Carol Whitmer (School Curriculum)
• Dr. Tom Forbes (Philosophy and Technology)
• Dr. Paul Jones (Law, Personnel & Fiscal Management)
• Dr. Len Wallmark (Instructional Strategies of Christ)
• Dr. Neita Novo (Language Arts for Elementary)
• Dr. Carol Wertz (Multicultural Intstruction)
• David Peek (Technology)
• Matt Garrett (Language Arts for Secondary)