To be successful in meeting the needs of students in today’s public schools, an educator must have a “toolbox” much larger than what was needed in past generations of teachers. A Multidisciplinary Studies in Education master’s degree will satisfy many early career needs of today’s educator by:
• Providing the essential knowledge and in-demand skills needed for today’s diverse classrooms.
• Increasing knowledge in designing curriculum, implementing research-based instructional strategies, and developing leadership capacity.
• Providing flexibility in designing a plan of study suited to one’s individual academic and professional goals.
The Hood College Multidisciplinary Studies in Education program consists of a thoughtful balance of hybrid and face-to-face courses, purposefully designed to deliver high-quality learning experiences while accommodating the busy schedule of teaching professionals. Most classes follow a hybrid format, which provides students with flexibility and the convenience of working at home during online class sessions, while the face-to-face meetings bring students together for rich conversations about teaching and learning. Our small class sizes and discussion-based courses encourage high levels of engagement. The majority of Multidisciplinary Studies courses are hybrid.
The Multidisciplinary Studies program earns its name from the unique course sequence that allows graduate students to take courses across three educational programs (Curriculum and Instruction, Reading Specialization, and Educational Leadership). Students also complete foundational classes focusing on topics such as curriculum, technology, diversity, and educational research. Finally, with advisor approval, students have the option to select courses from graduate programs in other disciplines to create a highly individualized program that aligns with career goals.
Graduate education classes are taught by expert faculty and adjuncts who are accomplished professionals in the field of education. Courses balance theory and practice in order to provide relevant, purposeful experiences that address current topics in education.
All graduate students in the Multidisciplinary Studies in Education programs are required to have regular access to a U.S. PreK-12 classroom throughout their program in order to successfully complete course assignments and the capstone research project. Students who are not currently teaching may work with a local school to volunteer or observe in a classroom. (Applicants are responsible for meeting all requirements for school volunteers, as determined by the individual school and/or district.). Please note that this program does not lead to teacher certification.
The Hood Education Department is recognized by the Maryland State Department of Education as an approved Educator Preparation Program provider.
"Hood College gave me opportunities to expand my horizon by welcoming challenge and change - especially by working with students of all age levels." - Laurene Carlisle Curriculum & Instruction M.S.'03
*Please note the Multidisciplinary Studies in Education master's program is not open to F1 students.
Program Director
Assistant Director of Graduate Admission
Laurene Carlisle earned an M.S. in Curriculum & Instruction from Hood College and has been teaching K-5 for the past 21 years.
National Board Certification is an advanced professional certification for PreK-12 educators that is completely voluntary. The certification is based on a very difficult peer-reviewed and performance-based process that is similar to professional medical certifications.
For students applying to the M.S. in education multidisciplinary studies, please submit the following to the Graduate School:
Earn Hood graduate credits as a non-degree student or apply them toward a related master's degree in education while completing the FCPS Vanguard program.
This partnership program between the Frederick County Public School System and Hood College will teach, lead and coach others to create a blended learning environment in the classroom, while building capacity within schools and across the district.
Mindset competencies include the core values or beliefs that guide an individual’s thinking, behaviors, and actions, and that align with the goals of educational change and mission. Educators need to commit to mindsets that help them shift toward new forms of teaching and learning.
Instructional technology skills help educators utilize technology in their lessons. The goal is to transform learning experiences so they result in higher levels of achievement for students. These skills are acquired and mastered through instruction, training and practice.
Teaching practice competencies are personal characteristics and patterns of behavior that help educators make the transition to new ways of teaching and learning. These qualities include integrating digital content, small group instruction, opportunities for student reflection and data-driven decision making.
Professional learning and networking skills are general skills that apply across roles and subject areas. These skills—which include collaboration and problem solving—are complex; they help practitioners tackle new tasks or develop solutions in situations that require organizational learning and innovation.
