M.Ed. Initial Teaching Certificate Options
With the growing need for qualified teachers, Concordia University, Nebraska offers alternative-track options for earning your initial teaching certificate. These programs are designed for those who want to enter the teaching field for the first time, who are teaching in Nebraska schools with an alternative or provisional certificate.
standard rate
special rate*
*Special rate: Those who work in a Lutheran institution, members of Lutheran congregations, alumni of any Concordia University System (CUS) school or Nebraska residents1
M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction: Secondary Education
- Concordia University, Nebraska’s M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction fast-track option provides training in instructional strategies, classroom management, curriculum development and assessment techniques to prepare educators for effective teaching of grades 6/7-12.
Endorsement areas: Biology, Chemistry, English Language Arts, Physics, Science, History, Math, Physical Education, Psychology, Religious Education, Secondary English and Social Science.
M.Ed. in Early Childhood Inclusive Education
- Concordia’s M.Ed. in Early Childhood Inclusive Education alternative track equips students with the pedagogical knowledge and skills to effectively teach and support young learners from birth through third grade. Coursework includes child development, inclusive teaching practices, early literacy instruction and strategies for working with diverse learners.
M.A. in School Counseling
- Become a school counselor. Students in Concordia’s M.A. in School Counseling alternative track program learn counseling theories, intervention techniques, ethics in school counseling and strategies for supporting students' mental health and career readiness.
Program Highlights
- Flexible program options: Choose from a certification-only track or complete a full master's degree.
- High-demand career paths: Address the growing teacher shortage and step into a rewarding profession.
- Faith-based learning community: Benefit from a Christ-centered approach to education and mentorship.
RSVP to one of our next information sessions
Information Sessions
Learn more about our programs at one of our next information sessions.
You may register for an information session by clicking "RSVP" next to your desired date and time.
Information sessions run approximately 20 minutes. During these meetings, we will discuss the program formats, application process, financial aid, payment plans and questions that you may have.
Non-Nebraska Resident
Nebraska Resident
Accreditation
- Concordia’s online graduate education endorsements are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Learn more about accreditation
Degree Goals
- Earn your initial teaching certificate and become a licensed educator.
- Advance your career with a master's degree that qualifies you for higher pay on school salary scales.
- Gain the skills and knowledge needed to excel as a teacher or school counselor.
Career Outcomes
Middle or High School Teacher
- Middle and high school teachers create lesson plans, deliver instruction, assess student progress and foster a positive learning environment. They play a crucial role in shaping young minds and preparing students for their futures.
FAQs
These programs are designed for individuals who hold a bachelor's degree and want to transition into teaching. Candidates must meet Nebraska's alternative/provisional certification requirements.
The timeline to completion depends on the program you choose.
- M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction: Secondary Education: 10 courses, including 2 student teaching courses.
- M.Ed. in Early Childhood Inclusive Education: 19 courses, including 2 student teaching courses.
- M.A. in School Counseling (Track 2): 21 courses.
Yes! These programs are structured so that students can teach in a Nebraska school under an alternative or provisional certificate while completing coursework.
Related Programs
M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction
The Master's of Education in Curriculum and Instruction online helps you become a forward-thinking curriculum coordinator or teacher leader.
M.Ed. Early Childhood Education
Gain the skills you need to make a positive impact in the lives of young children with Concordia Nebraska’s early childhood education online program.
School Counseling
Enroll in a flexible online school counseling master's program that blends theory, Lutheran values and practical experience in easy-to-digest, 8 week courses.
1Discounted rate does not apply to course-only options.