Upper Iowa University and Happy Teacher Launch Affordable Master of Education Degree at $10,000

Unlocking Affordable Education: A New Path for Teachers

In an innovative move aimed at enhancing access to higher education for educators, Upper Iowa University (UIU) has recently formed a partnership with Happy Teacher Professional Development. This collaboration introduces a new, budget-friendly pathway for teachers aspiring to earn their Master of Education (M.Ed) degree for only $10,000.

Traditionally, the financial burden of graduate education can be daunting, with the average cost for an M.Ed program reaching around $50,000. However, through this partnership, educators can now leverage 12 graduate credits earned from Happy Teacher’s programs as elective credits towards their degree at UIU. By making this adjustment, the total expenses for obtaining a master's degree decrease significantly, saving teachers over $2,800.

The mission behind this collaboration is clear—both organizations are dedicated to offering high-quality, accessible education tailored for educators across the country. Dr. Billie Cowley, Vice President for Academic Affairs at UIU, expressed pride in supporting current and future educators through flexible and affordable pathways to achieve their professional development goals.

The Offerings

This unique educational program stands out due to its student-centered approach. UIU is already known for its strong emphasis on teacher education and its variety of online delivery methods, allowing students to balance their studies with their teaching commitments.

Tyler Surowicz, a current student in the UIU Master of Education program, shared her positive experiences with the program, stating that Happy Teacher provides a supportive and flexible way for educators to advance their careers without leaving the classroom. This sentiment is particularly important for working teachers who might find it challenging to pursue additional qualifications amidst their full-time roles.

About Happy Teacher Professional Development

Founded in Colorado in 2018 by high school teacher Jennifer Cooper, Happy Teacher Professional Development focuses on providing high-quality, self-paced, online professional development courses for educators. With a mission to assist teachers in growing their careers and achieving a fulfilling life, Happy Teacher seamlessly aligns its goals with those of Upper Iowa University.

This partnership exemplifies a growing trend in education where institutions are finding innovative ways to make advanced degrees more accessible without compromising quality. Educators interested in this affordable pathway are encouraged to visit Upper Iowa University’s webpage for more detailed information about their Master of Education program in collaboration with Happy Teacher.

These developments symbolize a significant step forward in educational opportunities for teachers, aiming to foster not only professional growth but also personal satisfaction in their careers.