Graduate and Adult Learning

Master of Arts Education

ONLINE ADULT EDUCATION

WHY CHOOSE MUSKINGUM’S ONLINE ADULT EDUCATION MASTER’S PROGRAM?

Muskingum University’s Adult Education MAE program combines adult learning theory, instructional strategies, technology integration, and program development to help professionals grow as leaders in adult learning and professional education.

Program Highlights

  • 100% online format
  • Flexible asynchronous coursework
  • 8-week courses designed for working professionals
  • Complete in 18–24 months
  • Practical, real-world projects
  • Choice-based capstone experience
  • Explore emerging technologies including AI, VR/AR, and adaptive learning tools

WHO SHOULD APPLY?

This program is ideal for professionals who:

  • Train or develop employees in corporate or organizational settings
  • Teach in community colleges, continuing education, or adult literacy programs
  • Design or deliver professional development in healthcare, education, or workforce settings
  • Lead workforce development or career training initiatives
  • Work in nonprofit, government, or community organizations
  • Want to transition into adult education or advance into leadership roles

No teaching license is required.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

Upon completion of the Adult Education MA, you will be able to:

  1. Apply adult learning theories across diverse professional contexts
  2. Design inclusive and engaging learning environments for adult learners
  3. Integrate technology strategically to enhance adult learning experiences
  4. Facilitate reflective and experiential learning opportunities
  5. Conduct and apply educational research to improve practice
  6. Lead and advocate for adult learning initiatives in organizations and communities
  7. Evaluate and continuously improve instructional practices

CURRICULUM BREAKDOWN

Program Courses (30 Credit Hours)

Foundational Theory & Practice

  • EDUC 574 Foundations of Adult Education: Adult Learning and Development Across Contexts (3)
  • EDUC 605 Leading and Learning in a Culture of Change (3)
  • EDUC 606 Invitational and Inclusive Education (3)

Practical Application

  • EDUC 575 Instructional Strategies for Adult Learners (3)
  • EDUC 584 Technology and Innovation in Adult Learning (3)
  • EDUC 576 Designing Programs for Adult Education (3)

Organizational & Leadership Skills

  • MOLP 788 Work Teams (3)

Project Management (Choose One)

  • MOLP 789 Project Management (3)
  • EDUC 518 Coaching Team Sports (3)

Capstone Experience

  • EDUC 607 Applications of Educational Research (3)
  • EDUC 830 Adult Education Capstone (3) 
    • Choose between supervised internship (120 hours) or independent capstone project
    • Work closely with faculty advisor aligned to your professional goals
    • Synthesize program learning in authentic professional context

For a complete listing of MAE requirements, policies, and procedures, please refer to the Graduate Catalog.

CAREERS IN ADULT EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE TRAINING

Graduates may pursue careers in:

  • Corporate training and learning & development
  • Workforce development
  • Continuing education
  • Higher education
  • Healthcare education
  • Community and nonprofit education

Potential roles include:

  • Corporate Trainer
  • Learning & Development Specialist
  • Instructional Designer
  • Professional Development Coordinator
  • Workforce Development Manager
  • Continuing Education Administrator
  • Adult Education Consultant
  • Healthcare Educator
  • Community Education Director
  • Higher Education Instructor or Program Coordinator

FLEXIBLE ONLINE FORMAT FOR WORKING PROFESSIONALS

Muskingum University’s Adult Education MAE is designed to help working professionals balance graduate education with career and personal responsibilities.

Online Learning Features

  • 100% online with no campus visits required
  • Asynchronous courses completed on your schedule
  • Multiple start dates throughout the year
  • Part-time friendly scheduling options

Program Length

  • Minimum completion time: 18 months
  • Typical completion time: approximately 2 years
  • Most students take 1–2 courses per 8-week term
  • Final capstone completed during a 15-week semester

WHAT MAKES THIS PROGRAM UNIQUE?

Applied Learning Focus

Every course includes practical projects and authentic applications that can be used immediately in professional settings.

Choice-Based Capstone

Students select either an internship or project experience based on their career goals and interests.

Technology & Innovation

The program explores emerging educational technologies and innovative learning tools relevant to modern adult education environments.

Cross-Sector Relevance

Coursework is applicable across corporate, healthcare, higher education, nonprofit, community, and workforce development settings.

Practitioner Faculty

Students learn from experienced professionals with real-world expertise in adult learning and education.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I need a teaching license to apply?

No. This program is designed for professionals working with adult learners in a variety of settings, including corporate, healthcare, nonprofit, community, and educational environments.

Can I complete this program while working full-time?

Yes. The asynchronous online format allows working professionals to complete coursework on a flexible schedule.

How long does it take to complete the program?

Students can complete the program in as few as 18 months by taking two courses per 8-week session. Most working professionals complete the program in approximately two years.

What’s the difference between the internship and project capstone options?

The internship option includes 120 hours of supervised experience in an adult education setting. The project option allows students to complete an independent research or applied project focused on a specific area of interest.

Is financial aid available?

Yes. Graduate students may be eligible for federal loans, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance programs.

When can I start?

The program offers multiple start dates throughout the year. Contact Muskingum University to learn about upcoming enrollment opportunities.

Grow as a leader in adult learning and professional education with Muskingum, 100% online!
Take The Next Step

Contact Information

Dr. Jessica Grubaugh
Director of Graduate Teacher Education Programs
Muskingum University
260 Stadium Drive
New Concord, OH 43762
PH: 740-826-8470
E-mail: grubaugh@muskingum.edu

Federal regulations require that Muskingum University publicly disclose whether completing certain programs, which may lead to professional licensure or certification, meets the educational requirements for licensure or certification in each state. This disclosure applies to all programming modalities, including on-ground, online, or hybrid. For more information click here.

Back to top