University of the Cumberlands presents a plan of studies for those students who are interested in a career in teaching. Graduate studies are available in three different Master’s degree programs, four administrative certifications, one reading and writing specialist certification program, two fifth year non-degree programs, add-on special education certification, alternative certification special education certification, and Rank I certification. Graduate courses are offered during the regular fall and spring terms and in the summer

The programs and certifications at University of the Cumberlands are designed to fulfill Kentucky state requirements for licensure and certification. Out-of-state requirements for licensure and/or certification are not the responsibility of University of the Cumberlands. Candidates should check with out-of-state agencies for reciprocity with Kentucky and that particular state’s requirements.

• Master of Arts in Education
  The Master of Arts in Education is designed for students who currently hold teaching certificates and who wish to further their education by earning a Master’s degree in their certification area. All candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree. This degree does not lead to initial certification but can provide certification in Reading and Writing. The total hours for the degree are 30 graduate credit hours, with a minimum of 15 hours at 600 level or higher.

• Master of Arts in Education: Instructional Leadership – Principalship
  The Master of Arts in Education: Instructional Leadership – Principalship is designed for students who wish to become a school principal. Level I and Level II certification are available, however, Level I and Level II must be completed for the Master of Arts in Education to be conferred. The total hours for the degree are 30 graduate credit hours, with a minimum of 15 hours at 600 level or higher.

• Master of Arts in Education: School Counseling
  University of the Cumberlands announces its Master of Arts in School Counseling degree program.  The program consists of forty-eight semester hours and provides certification as a school counselor to serve in grades P-12.

• Master of Arts in Teaching (Alternative Certification program)
  The Master of Arts in Teaching degree is an alternate route to teacher certification and offers graduate programs for initial certification for those who currently do not hold a valid license in the area in which they are seeking certification. Additionally, in some cases, the M.A.T. may provide additional certification to an already-licensed teacher.

• Educational Specialist
  The Ed.S. program of the University of the Cumberlands provides degree candidates and opportunity to enhance their expertise, skills, and credentials in school administration. Through an array of primarily online courses, candidates strengthen their knowledge of administrative processes, educational theory, and applied research. This content-based coursework provides the foundation for the practical, field experience activities of practicum classes. Candidates may choose to pursue a specialization in principalship or a specialization in supervision of instruction/superintendency.

Non-degree Programs

• Administration Certification
  These programs provide Level I and/or Level II certification for Director of Pupil Personnel, Director of Special Education, or Supervisor of Instruction. All Level I certifications are a total of 18 graduate credit hours. Level II certification is a total of 12 additional graduate credit hours. Total graduate hours for both Level I and II are 30 graduate credit hours with a minimum of 18 graduate hours at 600 level or higher.  Superintendent certification is available for Level I certification.

• Rank I
  This program is designed for candidates who hold a valid teaching license, a Rank II certification and who are seeking a rank change.  Rank I certification is available elementary, middle or secondary education, or in special education.  The total number of hours is 30 graduate credit hours with a minimum of 18 hours at 600 level or higher.