Graduate Education Programs
Ready to make a difference in the lives of students and advance your career in education? BSU has been a trusted leader in teacher and educational leadership training for over 180 years. We offer a diverse range of graduate programs designed to help you gain advanced skills, earn professional licensure and take on new leadership roles.
Whether you’re an experienced educator or just beginning your journey, our programs are built with your success in mind. We provide flexible scheduling, expert faculty and personalized support you need to reach your professional goals and make a lasting impact.
Register your interest to start your journey.
Programs For Every Goal
From initial licensure to advanced leadership roles, we have a program to fit your needs.
- Reading and Literacy: Our master’s in reading education is a top-ranked program (#8 in the nation) that equips you to become a reading specialist or literacy coach for grades K-12. Learn advanced literacy development, assessment and instruction to help students overcome challenges
- Special Education: Prepare for a career as a compassionate and qualified special education teacher, As the largest preparer of special education teachers in Massachusetts, we offer a breadth of M.Ed. programs leading to licensure for both moderate and severe disabilities (Pre-K 8 and 5-12). Our programs are offered 100% online for your convenience.
- TESOL & Bilingual Education: Expand your professional skillset and work with linguistically diverse learners through our graduate certificates in Bilingual Education and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). These flexible, online programs prepare you for teaching roles in the U.S. or abroad.
- School Counseling (M. Ed): In this program, you’ll develop the skills to help guide students toward their academic and personal success. You’ll learn to navigate the complex social and personal challenges youth face today, preparing you for a pivotal role in PreK-12 educational settings. Of the 46 different counseling degrees offered in Massachusetts, only 7-including this BSU program-have gained prestigious CACREP accreditation.
- Initial Licensure: Begin your teaching career with our programs in Early Childhood Education (Pre-K-2) or Elementary Education (1-6), which meet all Massachusetts licensure requirements.
- Professional Advancement: For licensed educators, our programs in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education help you deepen your expertise and earn professional licensure, with concentrations available in STEM and Technology Integration.
- Educational Leadership: Transition into a decision-making role with a master’s in educational leadership. Prepare for a career as a principal, superintendent, or special education administrator through our licensure and non-licensure programs.
True Return on Investment with Affordable Tuition
Flexible Full- or Part-Time, Online, On Campus or Hybrid Options
Graduate in 3 Years or Less

Personalized Learning Environment
Unlike larger institutions, BSU offers an intimate learning experience by keeping class sizes small by design: no more than 25 students in teaching programs and even fewer in leadership cohorts. This setting fosters individualized faculty support and strong collaboration among your peers.
Learn From Expert Faculty
Our instructors are more than just academics, they are experienced educators, researchers and leaders in the field. They bring real-world insights and academic expertise into the classroom providing you with the knowledge and mentorship you need to thrive.


Graduate Funding & Assistantships
The College of Graduate Studies at Bridgewater State University is committed to making graduate education accessible and affordable by offering a variety of Graduate Assistantships, Graduate Fellowships, financial aid and scholarships. You can engage in academic, administrative or graduate research assistantships, receiving tuition and fee remission as part of your work, while gaining invaluable real-world experience. Individual counseling and support are also available to help you work toward your personal and professional goals.
8%
A graduate degree from BSU is a powerful investment in your career. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for principals and superintendents is expected to grow by 8% through 2030.
28%
A master’s degree can also significantly increasing your earning potential-teachers with a master’s degree can earn 28% more than those with a bachelor’s degree alone.
