Program Overview
The Master of Science in Career and Technical Education at Central Washington University equips individuals with the skills to become effective leaders in technical education. The program emphasizes practical application, collaboration with industry partners, and experiential learning, preparing graduates for careers as technical education teachers, administrators, and curriculum developers.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Master of Science in Career and Technical Education
Overview:
The Career and Technical Education (CTE) graduate program at Central Washington University (CWU) equips individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to become effective leaders in technical education. The program emphasizes enhancing teaching techniques, developing curriculum, and comprehending workforce trends to prepare future students for successful careers. With a strong emphasis on practical application, graduates gain the tools to excel in their careers and make a positive impact on their communities.
Objectives:
- Enhance teaching methods to create engaging and effective learning environments
- Develop curriculum aligned with industry standards and best practices
- Analyze and interpret workforce trends to anticipate future skill needs
- Foster collaboration among educators, industry partners, and students
- Promote equity and inclusion in technical education
Program Structure:
The CTE program at CWU consists of 36 credit hours, including core courses, specialization courses, and a culminating project or thesis. The program can be completed in-person or online, providing flexibility for working professionals.
Core Courses:
- Foundations of Career and Technical Education
- Curriculum Development in CTE
- Instructional Methods in CTE
- Assessment and Evaluation in CTE
- Leadership and Administration in CTE
Specialization Courses:
Students can choose from a variety of specialization areas, including:
- Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs)
- Family and Consumer Sciences Education
- Health Sciences Education
- Industrial Technology Education
- Information Technology Education
- Trade and Industrial Education
Culminating Project/Thesis:
Students have the option to complete either a culminating project or a thesis to demonstrate their understanding and application of CTE principles. The project/thesis can focus on a specific research topic or a practical application of CTE concepts.
Assessment:
The CTE program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:
- Written assignments
- Presentations
- Projects
- Quizzes and exams
- Participation in class discussions and activities
Teaching:
The CTE program at CWU is delivered by experienced faculty members with expertise in technical education. The program utilizes a blend of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Hands-on activities
- Simulations
- Case studies
Unique Approaches:
The CTE program at CWU incorporates several unique approaches to enhance the student learning experience:
- Emphasis on Practical Application: The program places a strong emphasis on practical application, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to apply CTE principles in real-world settings.
- Collaboration with Industry Partners: The program fosters partnerships with industry professionals to provide students with insights into current workforce trends and best practices.
- Experiential Learning: Students have opportunities to engage in experiential learning through internships, practicums, and field projects.
Careers:
Graduates of the CTE program at CWU are well-prepared for a variety of careers in education, including:
- Technical Education Teacher
- Career and Technical Education Administrator
- Instructional Coordinator
- Curriculum Developer In addition to these traditional career paths, graduates may also pursue careers in workforce development, adult education, or corporate training.