Program Overview

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Master of Education in Lifelong Learning and Adult Education

The Master of Education in Lifelong Learning and Adult Education is a 30-credit online master's program designed to prepare students with practical methods to effectively engage and lead in adult education. This program is ideal for entry-level professionals in various administrative areas, those aspiring to become mid-level administrators of college and university offices, and practitioners in a variety of administrative functions desiring further professional development and career enhancement.

Program Summary

Develop the skills needed to serve adult learners as a teacher, trainer, or leader. This online master's program can prepare you with practical methods to effectively engage and lead in adult education.

100% Online

Complete your Penn State course work at your own pace and 100% online.

Application Deadline

Apply by April 1 to start May 18.

Credits and Costs

30 Credits, $1,037 per credit.

Nationally Recognized

Our graduate education programs are highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report.

Develop Skills to Provide Leadership in Adult Education

• Master techniques to effectively teach adult learners.
• Cultivate adult education curriculum and instructional design and development.
• Enrich program planning and administration for adult learners.
• Enhance curriculum and/or program evaluation within adult education programming.

Courses to Prepare You to Teach Adult Learners

The 30 credits required in this degree program can give you the knowledge and skills required to work with adult learners. Each course focuses on preparing you to help adult learners build on their existing knowledge and continue to learn in a purposeful way.

Required Courses (12 credits)

The core courses and culminating experience are required for all program options.

Core Courses (9 credits)

• ADTED 460: Introduction to Adult Education (3 credits)
  • History, methods, agencies, program areas, and problems of adult education in the United States.
• ADTED 505: The Teaching of Adults (3 credits)
  • Examination of direct and indirect teaching; contracts, application of current technology, andragogy, motivation, evaluation; knowledge of research.
  • Prerequisite: ADTED 460
• ADTED 542: Perspectives on Adult Learning Theory (3 credits)
  • Introduction to adult education learning theory, principles, and models of adult learning by adults alone, in groups, and in communities.

Culminating Experience (3 credits)

• ADTED 588: Professional Seminar: Research and Adult Education (3 credits)
  • Review of research in adult education, current and past, with analysis of its directions, effects, methodology, quality, financing, and prospects. This is the capstone course — all other required courses must be taken prior to ADTED 588.

Option Courses (select 18 credits)

Students will select 18 credits from one of the available options:

• General Master of Education option
• Global Online and Distance Education option

General Master of Education Option (select 18 credits)

• ADTED 470: Introduction to Distance Education (3 credits)
  • An introduction to the history, philosophy, organizations, learning theories, and instructional procedures used in American and foreign distance education.
• ADTED 501: Foundations of Medical Education (3 credits)
  • This course provides an overview of medical education and considers how it operates as a specific form of adult education. It is especially relevant to educators working with adult learners in medical education, nursing education, or health education.
• ADTED 502: Program and Instructional Design in Medical Education (3 credits)
  • This course focuses on program planning and instructional design in a medical setting with an emphasis on teaching with simulation.
  • Prerequisite: ADTED 460
• ADTED 506: Program Planning in Adult Education (3 credits)
  • Intensive study of theoretical foundations, policies, evaluation models, methods, and materials in program planning in adult education.
  • Prerequisite: ADTED 460, ADTED 505
• ADTED 507: Research and Evaluation in Adult Education (3 credits)
  • Guided discussion and reading in selected research and evaluation methods and trends as applied in adult education settings.
  • Prerequisite: ADTED 460
• ADTED 510: Historical and Social Issues in Adult Education (3 credits)
  • Social and historical foundations of adult education in the United States and selected nations.
  • Prerequisite: ADTED 460
  • Note: Students must have completed at least 12 credits of related course work prior to taking this course.
• ADTED 533: Global Online and Distance Education (3 credits)
  • Students will explore the historical and current developments of online and distance education in different regions of the world.
  • Prerequisite: ADTED 460
• ADTED 575: Administration of Adult Education (3 credits)
  • Organization of a program of adult education; legal status, finances, selection of teachers, learning personnel, housing; other administrative problems.
  • Prerequisite: ADTED 506 or EDLDR 480

Global Online and Distance Education Option (18 credits)

Required Courses (12 credits)

• ADTED 470: Introduction to Distance Education (3 credits)
  • An introduction to the history, philosophy, organizations, learning theories, and instructional procedures used in American and foreign distance education.
• ADTED 531: Course Design and Development in Distance Education (3 credits)
  • In-depth study of the practices of designing courses taught by print, broadcast, and telecommunications media to adult distance learners.
  • Prerequisite: ADTED 470, LDT 415A
• ADTED 532: Research and Evaluation in Distance Education (3 credits)
  • Study of previous, current, and needed research, and of strategies and issues concerning evaluation, in distance education.
• ADTED 533: Global Online and Distance Education (3 credits)
  • Students will explore the historical and current developments of online and distance education in different regions of the world.
  • Prerequisite: ADTED 460

Electives (select 6 credits)

• ADTED 460: Introduction to Adult Education (3 credits)
  • History, methods, agencies, program areas, and problems of adult education in the United States.
• ADTED 506: Program Planning in Adult Education (3 credits)
  • Intensive study of theoretical foundations, policies, evaluation models, methods, and materials in program planning in adult education.
  • Prerequisite: ADTED 460, ADTED 505
• ADTED 510: Historical and Social Issues in Adult Education (3 credits)
  • Social and historical foundations of adult education in the United States and selected nations.
  • Prerequisite: ADTED 460
  • Note: Students must have completed at least 12 credits of related course work prior to taking this course.
• ADTED 575: Administration of Adult Education (3 credits)
  • Organization of a program of adult education; legal status, finances, selection of teachers, learning personnel, housing; other administrative problems.
  • Prerequisite: ADTED 506 or EDLDR 480
• ADTED 581: Social Theory and Lifelong Learning (3 credits)
  • In-depth coverage of social theory, especially as it intersects with research in adult education and lifelong learning.

Collaborative Experience, Practical Applications

The adult education curriculum uses a blend of web technology, print, and other media to maximize flexibility without sacrificing professor and student interaction. Communication tools, including bulletin boards and email, are used to foster a collaborative environment, providing you with the opportunity to learn from one another about the unique industries and institutions you come from and your varied professional experiences.

Excel in the Adult Education Field

Adult educators are in high demand. You can use the knowledge gained from this program and the support of Penn State career resources to pursue careers in a variety of fields, depending on your goals.

Job Titles Related to This Degree

The following roles are often held by people with this type of degree:

• Adult Basic Education Instructor (ABE Instructor)
• Education and Development Manager
• GED Instructor (General Educational Development Instructor)
• Learning and Development Director

Employment Outlook for Occupational Fields Related to This Degree

Estimates of employment growth and total employment are provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and are subject to change. While these occupations are often pursued by graduates with this degree, individual outcomes may vary depending on a variety of factors.

Training and Development Specialists

• 11.5% employment growth (10 years)
• 436,610 total employment

Adult Basic Education, Adult Secondary Education, and English as a Second Language Instructors

• -12.7% employment growth (10 years)
• 36,260 total employment

Additional Job Fields and Opportunities

• Understand how to teach or train audiences with diverse backgrounds and learning styles.
• Effectively support corporate and organizational initiatives to develop essential training and professional development for employees.
• Meet the increasing demand of health care centers, community centers, higher education institutions, and corporate training centers in need of qualified adult educational professionals.

Career Services to Set You Up for Success

From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.

• Opportunities to connect with employers
• Career counselor/coach support
• Occupation and salary information
• Internships
• Graduate school resources

Earn a Valuable Credential along the Way

Show mastery of specific subjects before your degree is complete. Thanks to shared courses across programs, students can often earn a certificate along with their degree in less time than if they earned them separately.

Certificate Programs Related to This Degree

In addition to the master’s degree, Penn State offers online a related postbaccalaureate certificate. All the credits you earn in this certificate program may be applied toward the requirements for the Master of Education in Lifelong Learning and Adult Education, upon your acceptance into that adult education program.

The following certificate can be earned while completing this degree program:

• Distance Education (Postbaccalaureate Certificate)

Customize Your Degree

Align your degree studies with your career goals by choosing the general master's in education path or selecting a formal option, which will appear on your diploma.

Master of Education (no option)

Offers flexibility to register for more electives from different areas, including global online and distance education and qualitative research methods.

Global Online and Distance Education option

Emphasizes historical and current procedures, practices, and developments related to distance education both domestically and internationally. Electives include course topics such as theory, program planning, and emerging technologies.

Who Should Apply?

This online program is ideal for:

• entry-level professionals in a variety of administrative areas
• those aspiring to become mid-level administrators of college and university offices
• practitioners in a variety of administrative functions desiring further professional development and career enhancement

Act 48 Approved

Penn State is an Act 48–approved provider for Pennsylvania educators, so the courses for the Master of Education in Lifelong Learning and Adult Education may count toward your professional development hours.

Set Your Own Pace

Whether you are looking to finish your program as quickly as possible or balance your studies with your busy life, Penn State World Campus can help you achieve your education goals. Many students take one or two courses per semester.

To Finish Your Degree in One to Two Years

• Take 3–4 courses each semester

To Finish Your Degree in Two to Three Years

• Take 2–3 courses each semester

To Finish Your Degree in Three to Four Years

• Take 1 course each semester

Timelines may vary based on course availability.

Convenient Online Format

This program's convenient online format gives you the flexibility you need to study around your busy schedule. You can skip the lengthy commute without sacrificing the quality of your education and prepare yourself for more rewarding career opportunities without leaving your home.

A Trusted Leader in Online Education

Penn State has a history of more than 100 years of distance education, and World Campus has been a leader in online learning for more than two decades. Our online learning environment offers the same quality education that our students experience on campus.

How to Apply to Penn State

Deadlines and Important Dates

Complete your application and submit all required materials by the appropriate deadline. Your deadline will depend on the semester you plan to start your courses.

• Summer Deadline: Apply by April 1 to start May 18
• Fall Deadline: Apply by July 1 to start August 24
• Spring Deadline: Apply by November 1, 2026, to start January 11, 2027

Steps to Apply

1. Review the admission requirements.
   • For admission to the Fox Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. This degree must be from an officially recognized degree-granting institution in the country in which it operates.
   • GPA — All applicants are expected to have earned a junior/senior grade point average of 3.0 or higher.
2. Gather your required materials.
   • You will need to upload the following items as part of your application:
     • Official transcripts from each institution attended, regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. If you are a Penn State alum, you do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State but must list Penn State as part of your academic history.
     • English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Proficiency section on the Fox Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page.
     • References (3) — You will need to initiate the process through the online application by entering names, email addresses, and mailing addresses of three references. Upon submission of your application, an email will be sent to each reference requesting they complete a brief online recommendation regarding your commitment for success in an online program. Please inform all recommenders they must submit the form in order for your application to be complete.
     • Program-Specific Questions/Materials
       • Statement of Purpose — Please tell us why you would like to pursue graduate studies at Penn State. You may wish to tell us about questions or issues that drive you, experiences that have shaped your professional interests, your medium-term and long-term goals, and why you think that Penn State is well-suited to help you. Feel free to include any additional information that may assist faculty in evaluating your preparation and aptitude for graduate study at Penn State.
       • Writing Samples — Please attach a critical review of a research article or report from a recent educational journal in your area of proposed study. Identify the problem or issue, the author's analytical/empirical approach, and the nature of the evidence used in supporting any conclusions. Include a citation with the author's name, article title, journal name, volume, page numbers, and publication date. We’re looking for an essay of approximately 300 words.
3. Create a Penn State login account.
   • To begin the online application, you will need a Penn State account.
4. Read the application instructions.
   • You can begin your online application at any time. Your progress within the online application system will be saved as you go, allowing you to return at any point as you gather additional information and required materials.
5. Complete the application.

Costs and Financial Aid

Graduate Tuition

Graduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.

2025–26 Academic Year Rates

• 11 or fewer credits: $1,037 per credit
• 12 or more credits: $12,448 per semester

2026–27 Academic Year Rates

• 11 or fewer credits: $1,048 per credit
• 12 or more credits: $12,572 per semester

Financial Aid and Military Benefits

Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Federal financial aid may only be used to pay for credits used to satisfy program requirements.

Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.

Additional Cost of Attendance Details

To view the detailed list of cost of attendance elements:

• visit the Tuition Information site
• click the plus sign to expand the table
• select a semester from the World Campus row

Technical Requirements

Review the technical requirements for this program.

Learn from the Best

Offered by Penn State's College of Education, this degree program is renowned for preparing and supporting education professionals. Delivered online through Penn State World Campus, this program is taught by the same nationally recognized faculty who teach our rigorous, high-quality residential program.

Faculty

• José Cossa, Ph.D.
  • Degree: Ph.D., Cultural and Educational Policy Studies, Loyola University Chicago
  • Dr. José Cossa is a Mozambican scholar, writer/author, researcher, poet, blogger, “twitterer,” podcaster, entrepreneur, and associate professor in the College of Education at Penn State.
• William C. Diehl
  • Degree: Ph.D., Adult Education, Penn State
  • Degree: B.S., Elementary Education, Penn State
  • Dr. William C. Diehl is an associate professor and coordinator of the online graduate programs in the Lifelong Learning and Adult Education program.
• Karin Sprow Forté
  • Degree: D.Ed., Adult Education, Penn State
  • Degree: M.A., Teaching English as a Second Language, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
  • Degree: M.A., Spanish Language and Literature, University of Alabama
  • Degree: B.A., Spanish Language and Literature, University of Alabama
  • Dr. Karin Sprow Forté is an associate teaching professor of education at Penn State Harrisburg and the chair of teacher education.
• John D. Holst
  • Degree: Ed.D., Adult and Continuing Education, Northern Illinois University
  • Degree: M.S., Adult and Continuing Education, Northern Illinois University
  • John D. Holst is an Associate Professor of Lifelong Learning and Adult Education.
• Jaeung Kim
  • Degree: Ph.D., Lifelong Learning and Adult Education, Penn State
  • Degree: M.A., Education, Seoul National University
  • Degree: B.A., Education, Seoul National University
  • Dr. Jaeung Kim is an adjunct lecturer in lifelong learning and adult education.