Master in Middle Grades Education

The University of St. Francis in Joliet, Illinois, combines a tradition of Franciscan values with contemporary academic programs designed to prepare students for ethical leadership and professional success. Founded in 1920, the university offers a liberal arts foundation alongside a broad range of professional and graduate programs that emphasize service, compassion and community engagement within a supportive campus culture.

With a student population of around 4,000 and an international community, the university prioritizes small class sizes, individualized attention and experiential learning. Programs span multiple disciplines and are structured to integrate academic work with practical experiences, internships and community-focused projects. Faculty mentorship and co-curricular opportunities help students develop both technical competencies and the interpersonal qualities valued by employers.

International students find a welcoming environment grounded in service-oriented values and practical career preparation. The university’s location in Joliet provides proximity to regional employers and cultural amenities while maintaining a close-knit campus atmosphere. Prospective students seeking a values-driven education that balances rigorous academics, community involvement and focused career support will discover a purpose-driven community ready to support academic growth and professional development.

The Master in Middle Grades Education is a degree program for individuals who want to teach grades 5-8. It takes one year to complete and leads to a Master's degree and an initial Professional Educator License. This program is ideal for those who have a Bachelor's degree in another field and want to become teachers.

The curriculum covers subject areas like general science, language arts, mathematics, and social science. You'll develop skills in lesson planning, classroom management, and teaching methods. The program also includes hands-on components to help you gain practical experience in teaching middle grades students.

After completing this program, you can work as a Middle School Teacher, Education Consultant, Curriculum Developer, or School Administrator. You can also work in schools, educational institutions, or organizations that provide educational services. Your skills in teaching and education can also be applied to roles like Education Coordinator or Teacher Mentor.