Master of Arts in Education (MA)

Program Highlights: 

  • A standard core of 15-18 credits of professional development and research courses as well as 15-18 credits in an area of emphasis, culminating in a research capstone or thesis
  • Students are assigned an academic advisor who assists in selecting the specific program of courses 
  • Designed for individuals not seeking a teaching license, but looking to expand professional skills with an educational research focus 
  • Courses meet weekly during "after school hours" to meet the needs of working professionals
  • Program can be completed in 2 years and is open to international candidates as well as individuals who do not have a teaching license 

For additional program specific information, visit the School of Education.

Graduate School Application 

Admission Requirements:

  • Statement of Goals
  • Current Resume
  • Two Letters of Recommendation
    • The online application will provide the opportunity to enter contact information for your references and an email will be sent to the reference directly, prompting them to upload either a Word or PDF letter.
    • Alternatively, letters may either be emailed as a signed attachment to gradschl@up.edu or sent via mail to ATTN: Graduate School, 5000 N. Willamette Blvd.,Portland, Oregon 97203, directly by the reference.
  • Official Transcripts (from all previously attended academic institutions)
    • Must be submitted directly to UP from the institution 
      • Electronically to gradschl@up.edu
      • By mail to ATTN: Graduate School, 5000 N. Willamette Blvd.,Portland, Oregon 97203.
    • A bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited college or university recognized by the University of Portland is required
      • International Applicants; All foreign degrees will be evaluated by International Student Services prior to an admission decision 
    • International Applicants: Transcripts from foreign universities must follow the above guideline as well as be in English or be accompanied by an English translation certified as authentic 
  • Official Test Scores
    • GRE score
    • International Applicants: An official score from either the TOEFL (minimum score of 88) or IELTS (minimum score of 7.0) exam is additionally required  
  • Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale)
    • Lower GPAs will be considered on a case by case basis 
  • International Applicants: Proof of financial support will be required to attend the University of Portland, but is not required for application review 

Application Timeline: 

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the following deadlines: 

  • Fall Semester Start: July 15
  • Spring Semester Start: December 15
  • Summer Semester Start: May 1

Program Contact: 

International Applicants: 

  • Please note the additional application requirements listed above in the "Admission Requirements" section
  • For additional information, visit International Student Services