Master's Degree Programs

Master of Science in Education Programs

Dominican University of California offers several 30-unit graduate programs leading to the degree of Master of Science in Education.  These programs are designed for educators and professionals from various fields who are interested in teaching and learning and who wish to prepare for leadership roles in education.  These programs prepare candidates for new roles and responsibilities in education and other professional careers. 

The three emphasis options are: 

          Curriculum and Instruction
          Special Education
          Interdisciplinary Studies

Admission is available in the fall and spring semesters.  Courses are offered during the fall, spring and summer terms in the late afternoon, early evening, on Saturdays and in hybrid online/face-to-face formats to accommodate the needs of working professionals.

Individuals entering this program quickly become aware of their role as professionals contributing to the advancement of research in education.  Early in the program, students identify their own research agenda, learn how to formulate a focus question, and gather critical information to build background knowledge, using the services of our very talented library staff. 

Students proceed in developing a research project or thesis in stages, particularly through their work in EDUC 5900 Research Methods. This is carried out in EDUC 5901 Proposal Development. During the final semester, students enroll in EDUC 5998 Directed Research to finalize their thesis, under the guidance of experienced faculty. 

Master of Science in Education - Curriculum and Instruction:

All post-BA candidates who have completed their preliminary Multiple/ Single Subject or Education Specialist: Preliminary Mild/Moderate Level I credentials at Dominican are eligible to participate in this program of advanced studies in Curriculum and Instruction.  This degree is designed to meet the professional career needs of practicing teachers, with an emphasis on teacher-as-researcher, teacher-as-scholar.

Candidates in this program carry 15 units from their credential program forward into this 30-unit master’s program, and then complete an additional 15 units of core classes.  Candidates complete a thesis or directed research project, approved by their advisor, which is presented at the end of the program to faculty and students. 

Master of Science in Education - Special Education:

This program includes the Education Specialist Professional Level II Credential and a Master of Science in Education.  Thirty units of coursework, directed research, and field experiences are required for the degree.  Students complete the 15-unit core requirement and 15 units of advanced course work in Special Education.

Master of Science in Education – Interdisciplinary:

"This program gave me the opportunity to link theory and practice in my career as an executive administrator in health care." -Lisa Miller, MS Education, 2007

This 30-unit program is ideal for working professionals who are interested in advanced studies in education.  A minimum of three (3) semesters of graduate level work at the university are usually required.

All candidates in the Master of Science programs take a 15-unit core course sequence.  Candidates choose an additional 15 units from selected graduate fields, based on individual interests.  Students complete a thesis or directed research project, approved by their advisor, which is presented at the end of the program to faculty and students.