Master of Education Degrees are offered in bilingual education, counselor education, curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, educational psychology, elementary education, higher education, instructional technology, language and literacy education, secondary education, and special education.

Doctor of Education Degrees are offered in these areas: counselor education, educational leadership, educational psychology, higher education, instructional technology, and special education. Doctoral study involves the mastery of a field of knowledge and successful pursuit of research. Consequently, doctoral programs are more flexible and varied than those leading to other graduate degrees. The distinguishing feature of the doctoral degree is its focus on the studentís mastery of independent investigation as demonstrated in a dissertation presenting original research or creative scholarship.

Doctor of Philosophy Degrees (Ph.D. in Higher Education, Curriculum and Instruction) will prepare future scholars with special competencies that are not required in the Ed.D. program. The Ph.D. will prepare students for careers as institutional researchers and planners, administrators of research and sponsored programs, grant proposal writers, and assessment/evaluation specialists.

Post Baccalaureate Certification Programs are available to meet initial certification requirements for teaching in elementary and secondary schools. Although the professional certification programs require study at the graduate level, it should be noted that these programs are not necessarily coincidental with degree programs. Post-Baccalaureate teacher certificates include all-level (art, music, physical education); Early Childhood Education - Grade 4; Grades 4-8; and Grades 8-12. The state-mandated TExES test, as well as a practical experience component (such as student teaching or internship), is required for persons who complete certification programs. For guidance concerning professional certification, consult with an advisor, the university certification officer, or the coordinator of the various programs.

Certification and Endorsement Programs in the College of Education allow for several levels of initial teaching certification and numerous professional certificates. Texas Tech University certification programs are fully accredited by the Texas State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC).

Professional Certificates are offered in these areas: educational diagnostician, master reading teacher, master technology teacher, principal, reading specialist, school counselor, and superintendent.

Endorsements (Supplementary Certificates) include: bilingual, English as a second language, generic special education, orientation and mobility specialist, and visual impairment.

Distance Education Degree Programs* include: Master of Education in Instructional Technology (Emphasis in Distance Learning), Master of Education in Special Education (Emphases in Visual Impairment, Dual Sensory, Orientation and Mobility, Educational Diagnostician, Generic Special Education).

Distance Education Certification Programs* include: Generic Special Education (Supplemental Certificate), Educational Diagnostician (Professional Standards Certificate), Visually Handicapped (Supplemental Certificate), Orientation and Mobility (National Certification).

* Depending on the selected program, some on-campus courses may be required.