Education (MS Ed) | Online

Rooted in a biblical worldview, Cairn University’s fully online Master of Science in Education (MS Ed) empowers Christian educators to excel in the classroom through advanced training in curriculum design, innovative teaching models, global trends in education, and the theoretical and philosophical foundations of education.
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Online
100 %
Credits
36
Years to Complete
2
Christian College
# 2

Our Distinctives

Great student outcomes begin with a great curriculum — one that focuses on the learner. You can be an integral part in impacting the future for students and teachers alike with a master’s degree in education. Stand out from peer educators by earning a graduate education degree while studying and innovating in a setting where biblical worldview integration is both taught and modeled.

Cairn University Ranks #2 in Glanzer’s Guide to Christian Colleges and Universities. At Cairn University, we work hard to ensure that everything we do inside and outside the classroom aligns with our commitment to Christian education, clearly articulated in our University mission statement.

Highly Customizable

Choose from over 15 electives—including children’s literature, school administration, instructional technology, special education, and linguistics—to tailor the degree to your unique calling and career goals.

Biblically Rooted

Every course is rooted in Scripture for a Christ-centered approach.

Expert Faculty

Faculty and staff are personally committed to caring for, teaching, and leading students. Courses are taught by faculty not TAs.

Affordable

In addition to competitive tuition rates, Cairn University offers a significant tuition discount for teachers and staff working in Christian schools.

Program Description

Cairn University’s online Master of Science in Education (MS Ed) program integrates a biblical worldview to equip Christian educators for greater impact in the classroom. Focused on curriculum design, innovative teaching models, current educational trends, and philosophical foundations, the program fosters holistic student development through practical application in real-world settings. 
Note: This program does not provide initial teaching certification but supports renewal of existing credentials.
 
The core curriculum includes the following courses: 
 
 
Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum includes practical, biblically grounded education strategies:

  • Core Courses (21 credits): Includes Educational Research (EDU 713), Global Trends in Education (EDU 716), Theoretical/Philosophical Foundations (EDU 717), and Instructional Design Project (EDU 791).
  • Bible/Theology (6 credits)
  • Electives (12 credits): Customizable from 15+ options, such as children’s literature, school administration, instructional technology, special education, and linguistics.
  • Additional Opportunities: Earn no-cost certificates in Autism, Instructional Technology, or TESOL alongside the MS Ed. 

The curriculum is designed to assist the student in meeting specific competencies. The goal is that the graduate is able to:

  1. Design, implement, and modify instruction for students based upon human nature and learning, as well as their individual developmental levels, exceptionalities, and needs.
  2. Select and implement models of teaching based on human nature and learning, desired learner outcomes, and curriculum objectives.
  3. Apply theories of learning in designing and developing an overall approach to teaching, learning strategies, and modifications.
  4. Apply a personal educational philosophy to the educational setting and integrated biblical worldview to curriculum design, instructional methodology, assessment, and educational decision-making.
  5. Assess and design curriculum based on outcomes, ongoing learning assessment, differentiated learning, and authentic learning experiences.
  6. Identify, critique, and use specific trends in education, including instructional technologies, to enable effective student learning.
  7. Synthesize and evaluate educational research in order to improve teaching and learning.

All Cairn University students must have professed a faith in Jesus Christ as Savior as evidenced by providing a personal testimony that details this faith. By submitting an application, students acknowledge the University’s doctrinal position and standards of conduct as outlined in the Foundational Statements. Below are the admission requirements:

  • Application: Submit the Application for Admission along with the $25 non-refundable fee. Apply today using code faithmatters and we will waive the fee. 
  • Transcripts: Order official transcripts for all conferred degrees to be sent to Cairn University. 
  • Statement of Purpose: Describe your reasons for pursuing graduate studies in this field at this time. Please explain your current employment situation and your long-term goals. (250–500 words)
  • References: Submit two references: one academic (e.g., a professor or instructor) and one professional (e.g., a supervisor or manager) when completing the application. 

Cairn University strives to keep tuition costs affordable despite providing a rigorous education. Courses are taught by Cairn faculty and not TAs.

The tuition rate for the 2026-2027 academic year for full-time status (6 credits per semester) is  $580/credit. Additional details on fees and part-time status are available on this page

Christian school educators and employees may be eligible for the $400/credit discounted rate upon verification of employment. Cairn University also partners with many organizations and offers tuition discounts. Please contact us to find out if your organization has a partnership with Cairn University. 

Additional information on scholarships, grants, and loans is available from this page

Graduates are prepared for advanced teaching and administrative leadership in public, private, and faith-based schools worldwide. The degree distinguishes professionals, enabling them to influence students and colleagues through innovative, values-driven education.


MSCHE logo

Cairn University is regionally accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

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Cairn University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.

Additional Accreditation Information is available from this page

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“The collaboration and discussion with professors and my fellow students from all over the world gave such unique perspectives and insight on education outside of the United States, which will equip me as I consult with parents who are trying to navigate educating their children in a foreign country.”

– Julie B.

FAQs

What is the experience like?

Our program is intentionally grounded in God’s Word. Courses are thoughtfully designed by Cairn faculty to promote deep learning and active engagement through instructor-led instruction, research-driven activities, active learning, and meaningful interactions with peers and faculty. At Cairn, the students’ education and experience is designed to shape Christian character, cultivate wisdom, and prepare them to think, live, and serve biblically in an ever-changing world.

All courses, except the research courses, are structured in seven units and delivered in accelerated 7-week terms.

Each unit contains 5–7 modular activities, including:

  • Assigned readings and reading reflections
  • Instructional videos from Cairn faculty
  • Active learning activities
  • Weekly application projects
  • A component of the ongoing course research project

Faculty also schedule a few optional Zoom sessions throughout the term to connect with students and address questions.

Faculty are actively involved throughout the week—guiding learning activities, leading asynchronous discussions, grading work, and delivering personalized feedback. Online students also receive priority technical support and have access to valuable resources from the Masland Library and the Writing Lab.

Cairn is approved to offer financial aid because of its regional accreditation. There are many options available and typically students qualify for at least one type of federal aid. Many students receive scholarships and grants that make earning their degree even more affordable. Cairn offers a variety of scholarships and discounts in addition to options for loans and grants. Please refer to this page for details. 

Please note that international students are not eligible for financial aid. 

Advanced standing may be granted for Bible/Theology credits earned at an accredited Bible college, Christian liberal arts college or university, or seminary. Credits will be granted on a course-by-course basis.

There are six entry points in the program: September, October, January, March, May, July. 

Provided you submit the enrollment materials, applications are typically processed within 2 weeks of submitting your application. 

Next Steps

Information Sessions

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Interested in our MS in Education degree?  Complete this form to connect with an admissions advisor for personalized guidance on schedules, costs, and application steps. We’re here to help you take the next step!

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