Graduate Studies in Education

General Information

Courses assigned 5000 level numbers will not be accepted as part of the “Required M.Ed. Core.” They may only be used as elective credit upon approval of the Office of Graduate Studies in Education.
The Master’s program must be completed within six years of continueous enrollement from the date of matriculation.
Fee Assessment: All 6000 level Education Graduate Courses will be assessed a $15.00 Graduate Education fee per course to facilitate program administration, advisement and processing.
Upon admission all graduate students must maintain a 3.0 GPA.
Information on Graduate Independent Study Courses and Learning Contracts through the School of Continuing and Professional Studies can be acquired through the Office of Graduate Studies in Education.

For information on the Graduate Studies Program please contact:

Ruth Billhimer
College of Education Academic Advisor
billhimer@suu.edu or 435-865-8083

Master’s of Education & GELP Application Process:

GELP Admission:

Admission to the Graduate Educator Licensure Program (GELP) is a combination of submission of documentation and meeting specified requirements:

Complete and submit an application and payment of $50.00 for admission fee. Get the applications
Letter of application interest to include a statement expressing (1) reasons the applicant wants to be admitted to the GELP program, and (2) why the applicant believes he/she can succeed in the program.
Three (3) letters of recommendation from individuals who know you well (not family) in support of your plans to become a licensed teacher or seek added endorsement to current teaching license.
Official transcripts from all institutions of higher education showing a Bachelor's or Master's degree from an accredited institution of higher education with a 3.00 gpa on the last 60 semester or 90 quarter hours..
All teachers seeking an endorsement must submit a copy of a current teaching certificate from the USOE.
Current photograph (wallet size)
Secondary Licensure students submit scores from PRAXIS Content Knowledge test and a transcript review from the major emphasis area department meeting all licensure requirements:
- PRAXIS content knowledge test (test code in parenthesis): ( Biology ( 0235); Chemistry (0245); English (0041); French (0713); German (0181); Mathematics (0061); Physical Education (0091); Physical Science (0481); Spanish (0191). Contact http:// www.ets.org to set up a test date.
Elementary and Secondary students must successfully complete a criminal background check approved by the State of Utah before beginning the program.
Elmentary and Secondary Licensure students must attend a mandatory on campus orientation session before beginning classes.
Administrative Endorsement candidates, follow ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS listed under the M.Ed Program.

Master of Education, Master of Education with Administrative Endorsement & GELP Administrative Endorsement Admission:

Admission to the Master of Education, Master of Education with Administrative Endorsement, and GELP Administrative Endorsement program is a combination of submission of documentation and meeting specified requirements:

Complete and submit an application and payment of $50.00 for admission fee. Get the applications
Submit a handwritten statement expressing (1) reasons the applicant wants to be admitted to the M.Ed. Program, (2) why the applicant believes he/she can succeed in the program.
Submit official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate studies. Transcripts must verify a minimum GPA of 3.25 on the last 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of approved undergraduate/ graduate coursework and verification of a BA/BS degree. Those with a GPA below 3.24 – 3.0 will need to take the Miller’s Analogies Test or the GRE. GELP Administrative candidates must submit proof of Masters Degree.
Submit a copy of a current, valid teaching certificate and verification of at least 2 years of successful teaching or professional experience in an accredited private or public P-12 school.
Submit three (3) letters of recommendation from school administrators/supervisors, assigned mentors or former/current college instructors. Emphasis to be placed on (1) perceived ability to perform academically at the graduate level e.g., communication and writing skills, research skills, leadership, work ethic (2) teaching experience and exceptionality (3) collaboration and cooperation skills.
Only for Administrative Students: Submit a letter from your school district or current school stating they are willing to work with you in regards to release time for doing the required internships.
A sample of formal written work e.g., a paper from a college class (with references), an article prepared for publication, a paper presented at a professional conference, etc.
A current photograph.
Attend a mandatory on campus orientation and screening before taking classes.

Individuals desiring admission to either the GELP or Master of Education program send the above documentation to:

Graduate Studies in Education - CC111
c/o Debi Smith
Southern Utah University
351 West University Blvd.
Cedar City, Utah 84720

Admission is on a provisional basis until candidate demonstrates mastery of the knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary for a professional educator. Candidates failing to demonstrate the knowledge, skills and disposition necessary for successful teaching may be dropped from the program. Candidates must also be willing to be in compliance with school district dress and behavior codes as well as the Standards of Ethical Conduct for Utah Educators (USOE).

Once admitted, all candidates must maintain a 3.0 GPA and submit appropriate Professional Work Samples, Portfolio Artifacts and Proficiency tests that may be required by the State of Utah. Candidates who fail to meet these criteria may be revoked from the program.

How can I apply?

Online Version: Submit the application via the web (You will still have to mail-in your transcripts, GRE scores, etc.) (secure site, using SSL technology)

*GELP applicants need to specify on the application that they are applying for the GELP program. They need to, also, specify which licensure they intend to pursue in the GELP program.