M.Ed. in Educational Leadership - Montessori Educator Option

The Master of Education in Educational Leadership program with a Montessori Educator option is a unique opportunity for Montessori educators to advance their careers. This program is the only one of its kind in Canada and offers a distance cohort-based model, allowing students to broaden their understanding of Montessori philosophy, develop leadership skills, and expand their network.

Program Overview

The program features:

• A part-time, distance-based cohort delivery model
• Support for educators working full-time
• Job-embedded learning experiences tailored for Montessori educators
• Engagement in leadership, appreciative inquiry, and research methodological scholarship
• A focus on issues of diversity and social justice
• Reflective inquiry
• Applied project or empirical research-based thesis work
• Advanced standing transfer credit on Montessori teacher training

Program Delivery

The program is delivered over two years, with the following course structure:

Year 1

• Fall Semester: MEDL 500 - Foundations of Educational Leadership (synchronous online course delivery over approximately 10 Saturdays in the term) | 3 credits
• Spring Semester: MED 502 - Research in Education (synchronous online course delivery over approximately 10 Saturdays in the term) | 3 credits
• Intersession May/June Semester: MEDL 670 - Special Topics in Educational Leadership (independent thesis work with a supervisor) | 3 credits
• Summer July/August Semester: MEDL 680 - Field Inquiry (independent thesis work with a supervisor) | 3 credits
• Fall Semester: MEDL 690 - Major Project (independent thesis work with a supervisor) | 3 credits
• Total Credits: 15

Year 2

• Fall Semester onwards:
  • Montessori teacher training advanced standing credits
  • OR Completion of additional courses to reach credit count from:
    • MED 501 - Educational Theory & Practice (3 credits)
    • MEDL 580 - Leadership in the BC Context (3 credits)
    • MEDL 590 - Leadership Values & Ethical Decision-Making (3 credits)
    • MEDL 600 - Educational Change (3 credits)
    • MEDL 650 - Leading Learning (3 credits)
• Total Credits: 15
• Total Program Credits: 30

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to the program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Completion of a Bachelor's degree from a recognized university that is acceptable in content to the Faculty of Education with either:
  • a cumulative grade point average of "B" in the final two years
  • demonstration of academic excellence
• Applicants whose previous degree was obtained in a country where English is not the primary/official language and from a university where English was not the language of instruction must meet one of the university's English Language requirements for Graduate Programs.
• Acceptance and satisfactory review of the following items by the Admissions Committee:
  • A résumé outlining teaching experience (two years preferred).
  • A letter of intent explaining why the applicant wishes to pursue graduate work in this area.
  • Two current, confidential assessment reports (reference letters are not acceptable in lieu of the confidential assessment reports).
  • Submission of official post-secondary academic transcripts

Advanced Standing Credits for Montessori Teacher Training

• Completion (or near completion) of a Montessori teacher training program
• Submission of official Montessori teacher training program transcripts
• Awarding of advanced standing credits is dependent upon submission of official Montessori teacher training transcript showing program completion
• Assessment of Montessori teacher training credentials and transcripts is completed by the Program Chair
• A maximum of 15 program credits can be awarded, such as with the completion of:
  • Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) accredited Primary or Elementary Diploma
  • Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE) accredited Elementary or Secondary I and II diplomas
• If less than maximum advanced standing credits awarded, additional coursework to a maximum of 15 credits is required.
• Teacher accreditation in BC (Certificate of Qualification or Independent School Teaching Certificate) or equivalent (i.e., other jurisdiction)
• Submission of proof of teacher accreditation

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are charged on a per-course basis. For full program details, tuition fees, and other policies, see the university's Academic Calendar.

Vancouver Island University

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Overview:

Vancouver Island University (VIU) is a public university located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, humanities, social sciences, business, education, health, science, technology, and trades. VIU is known for its commitment to student success, providing a supportive learning environment and a variety of services to help students thrive.

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Services Offered:

VIU offers a comprehensive range of services to support students, including:

Academic Advising:

Personalized guidance on program selection, course planning, and academic progress.

Financial Aid and Awards:

Scholarships, bursaries, loans, and other financial assistance options.

Career Services:

Career counseling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Library:

Extensive collection of books, journals, databases, and online resources.

Health and Wellness Services:

Counseling, health promotion, and fitness programs.

Student Housing:

On-campus residence options for students seeking a convenient and supportive living environment.

Campus Recreation:

Opportunities for physical activity, sports, and recreational activities.

Campus Store:

Supplies, textbooks, and VIU merchandise.

Food Services:

Dining options on campus, including cafes, restaurants, and vending machines.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

VIU fosters a vibrant and inclusive campus community, offering students a variety of opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities, connect with peers, and develop their personal and professional skills. Students can participate in:

Student Clubs and Organizations:

A wide range of clubs and organizations catering to diverse interests.

Campus Events:

Social gatherings, workshops, performances, and guest speaker events.

Volunteer Opportunities:

Opportunities to give back to the community and gain valuable experience.

Athletics:

Participation in varsity sports and recreational leagues.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Location:

Situated on beautiful Vancouver Island, offering access to stunning natural landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Small Class Sizes:

Personalized attention from faculty and a more intimate learning environment.

Supportive Community:

A welcoming and inclusive campus community that fosters a sense of belonging.

Practical Experience:

Emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world applications.

Career-Focused Programs:

Programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in their chosen fields.

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Academic Programs:

VIU offers a diverse range of academic programs, including:

Bachelor's Degrees:

In various disciplines, including arts, business, education, health, science, and technology.

Master's Degrees:

In areas such as business administration, education, and geographic information systems.

Diplomas and Certificates:

In a wide range of fields, including trades, technology, and professional development.

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Other:

VIU has three campuses located in Nanaimo, Cowichan, and Powell River, providing students with a variety of campus environments to choose from. The university also has a strong commitment to Indigenous education and offers a variety of programs and services specifically designed for Indigenous students.