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The Master of Science in Workforce Education Leadership (WEL) is an online education program designed to prepare professionals for employment in workforce education in postsecondary educational institutions and social services entities, advancing the knowledge base of workforce preparation, workforce development education and professional development.

Program highlights:

  • This program is 100% online.
  • 30 hours are required to complete the program.
  • You can start courses in the spring, summer, or fall semester.
  • All online students pay in-state tuition.

Tuition & Fees

Tuition per credit hour $558.50
Instructional Support Fee per credit hour $25.00

Tuition and fees listed are subject to change and do not include all possible charges. Additional fees may apply. Please refer to the master class schedule for individual course charges.

What are some potential careers?

Some potential careers with this degree include workforce coordinator, academic and career coach, workforce development specialist, career advisor and outreach specialist.

Who should pursue this degree?

An individual pursuing this degree should find their goals aligned with those of the program which are to advance the knowledge base of career and technical education; to implement efficient concepts of workforce preparation and professional development; to actively engage in teaching, research and service that promotes workforce policy development and improvement and to understand the cultural and social factors that impact rural communities.

MDE Endorsement

If you are a K-12 teacher who holds a standard renewable Mississippi Educator license and are interested in the Workforce Education Leadership program, this degree program will lead to an upgrade to your license but will not lead to any additional endorsements. Additionally, this degree program does not lead to initial licensure.

 

What are some potential careers?

 

Admissions Process

Domestic/International Classified Admissions

  1. Submit online application. You will choose Online Education as your campus.
  2. Statement of Purpose
  3. Three letters of recommendation
    • You will be asked to submit three names and three email addresses of individuals you are using as references. Once you click submit, these individuals will be sent an email from MSU, which will provide a link to an online form for completing their recommendations.
  4. TOEFL or IELTS scores are required for international students.
  5. One official transcript showing bachelor’s degree or progress toward degree. (For international students, please submit a copy in native language along with translated copies, if appropriate.)
  6. One official transcript showing ALL work after bachelor’s degree. (For international students, please submit a copy in native language along with translated copies, if appropriate.)
    • Electronic transcripts should be sent to: gradapps@grad.msstate.edu Mississippi State University, Graduate School. Only one copy of an electronic transcript is required.
    • Paper Transcripts Address (USPS):
      Mississippi State University
      The Office of the Graduate School
      P.O. Box G
      Mississippi State, MS 39762
    • Physical Street Address (for DHL, Fed Ex, UPS, DHS, etc.):
      Mississippi State University
      The Office of the Graduate School
      175 President Circle
      116 Allen Hall
      Mississippi State, MS 39762
  7. Payment of $60 non-refundable application processing fee for domestic students.
    Payment of $80 non-refundable application processing fee for international students.
  8. Once you are admitted, you will receive an email with complete instructions on registering for classes and contacting your advisor.

Comprehensive Exam

A written, final comprehensive examination is required of all candidates. The exam is given in March, June, and October on Canvas. The exam requires students to respond in writing to questions on the following topics:

1. History and philosophy of the community college

2. Educational research

3. Workforce education

The following examination requirements must be met.

  • A student must be enrolled in at least 1 hour in the semester the exam is administered. A student taking a comprehensive examination during the summer semester can be enrolled in any summer term.

  • A student must have a 3.00 or higher GPA when sitting for the examination.

  • The student must be within the last 6 hours or in the terminal semester of coursework.

  • The student must sign and return the committee request form to his or her major professor by the deadline given by the major professor.


Contact Information

Photo of Samantha Clardy

Samantha Clardy

Enrollment & Onboarding Coach

  • General Program Questions
  • Assistance with Admissions Process & Requirements
Photo of Anusha Rijal

Anusha Rijal

Retention & Engagement Coach

  • Current Student Inquires
  • Academic & Support Services Assistance
Stephanie King Headshot

Dr. Stephanie King

Educational Leadership

  • Professor and Advisor