Family and Consumer Sciences

Department of Family and Consumer Sciences
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5322 USA
(269) 387-3704

M.A. in Workforce Education and Development

Woodshop teacher

This program is offered in-person, online, and hybrid.

The 30-credit Master's degree in Workforce Education and Development reflects contemporary legislation, national trends and critical issues that affect state and national work force development. Depending on the focus area, students expand their expertise in workforce education and development program administration, acquire advanced curriculum and instructional competencies in career-related training programs, school-to-work initiatives, student leadership development, and special populations. Required coursework, developed from the published research body of knowledge of the professional areas, strengthens students' abilities to teach workforce education and development, and to develop and implement new programs and curricula at secondary and post-secondary levels.

Those seeking to become a certified Michigan middle or high school CTE teacher should pursue the 36-credit post-baccalaureate pathway, which certifies teachers in the following areas: 

  • Business, marketing, management and technology
  • Family and consumer sciences
  • Industrial technology

A 9-credit certificate in Professional Workforce Educator that meets the academic course requirement for Michigan Standard CTE Certification is also available.

Why Workforce Education and Development at Western Michigan University?

  • Flexible programming allows students to complete this degree in-person, completely online, or in a hybrid model.
  • Includes an optional leadership development program for individuals who desire a leadership position at the secondary or post-secondary level.
  • Prepares students for future careers or continued study in the Educational Leadership Doctoral program.
  • 100% of program graduates were employed or continuing education within three months of graduation.

Who should apply?

Professionals looking to expand their expertise and acquire advanced curriculum and instructional competencies in career related training programs, school-to-work initiatives, student leadership development and special populations.

Those seeking to become a certified Michigan middle or high school CTE teacher.

Additional information

  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
  • Personal statement of 500-1500 words explaining summary of experience, future goals, and applicant’s interest in this master’s degree program.
  • Resume or curriculum vitae (CV).
  • Additional requirement for post-baccalaureate pathway:
  • Bachelor's degree must be comparable to the current Michigan secondary teachable major endorsement in marketing, business, family and consumer sciences, or industrial technology.
  • Successful completion of Basic Skills Examination.
  • 4000 hours of recent and relevant work experience in a related field.
  • Successful completion of the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) in the discipline.

An online component is offered specifically for military service members. Arrangements will be made for the participants to work with a school in their locale to accomplish the hands-on components of the courses.

"I am grateful to the program for transforming me into a more dynamic teacher. I now have the tools and skillset to guide my students toward a career pathway that aligns with their passion and personal goals."

—- Gina Panzica, alumna

Questions?

Chuck Bruce

Charles Bruce

Faculty Specialist II
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Adam Manley

Dr. Adam Manley

Associate Professor
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