Program Overview
The Master of Arts in Geographic Education (MAGED) program at Arizona State University equips K-12 educators with specialized training in geographic pedagogy, emphasizing critical thinking, spatial analysis, and problem-solving skills. The program comprises 30 credit hours of coursework and an applied project, preparing graduates for careers in geography teaching, curriculum development, educational consulting, and geospatial analysis.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Arts in Geographic Education (MAGED) program at Arizona State University is designed to provide K-12 educators with specialized training in geographic pedagogy. The program emphasizes the development of critical geographical thinking, spatial analysis, data visualization, and problem-solving skills. It also focuses on fostering a deeper understanding of the interrelationships between humans and their environment, as well as the role of geography in addressing contemporary global challenges.
Outline:
The MAGED program comprises 30 credit hours of coursework and an applied project. The curriculum is divided into three main components:
Required Core (3 credit hours):
- COE 501 Introduction to Research and Evaluation in Education
Geography Coursework (24 credit hours): This component includes a selection of courses covering essential topics in geography and geospatial technologies. These courses may include:
- Spatial Analysis and Modeling
- Remote Sensing and Image Interpretation
- Cartography and Visualization
- Environmental Geography
- Urban Geography
- Economic Geography
- Geospatial Data Management Students are required to have access to a computer with an internet connection and the capability to view videos and animated files.
Culminating Experience (3 credit hours): Students can choose to complete either an applied project in education (DCI 593) or an applied project in special education (SED 593). These projects allow students to demonstrate their understanding of geographic concepts and apply their newly acquired skills to real-world educational settings.
Assessment:
The assessment methods used in the MAGED program vary depending on the specific course and module. However, they typically include a combination of:
- Assignments: Essays, research projects, presentations, case studies, problem sets, and quizzes.
- Exams: Midterm and final examinations testing students' knowledge and understanding of course content.
- Participation: Active engagement in class discussions, group activities, and online forums. The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills through project-based activities and case studies.
Teaching:
The MAGED program features a diverse faculty with expertise in various areas of geography, education, and geospatial technologies. The faculty employs a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, group projects, hands-on exercises, and field experiences. The program also utilizes a blended learning approach that incorporates online resources and activities with traditional classroom instruction. This allows for flexibility and accessibility for students with different learning styles and schedules.
Careers:
Graduates of the MAGED program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in education and related fields. These may include:
- K-12 Geography Teacher: Develop and implement curriculum, teach geography courses, and promote geographical literacy among students.
- Curriculum Developer: Design and develop educational materials and resources related to geography and geospatial technologies.
- Educational Consultant: Advise schools and districts on the implementation of effective geography programs.
- Geospatial Analyst/Researcher: Use geographic information systems and data analysis techniques for research, planning, and decision-making in various fields.
Other:
The MAGED program is designed to be flexible and accessible to working professionals. The program offers both online and on-campus options to accommodate different schedules and learning preferences. The program is also committed to fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment where students can connect with peers, share their experiences, and learn from each other.
Arizona State University: A Comprehensive Overview
Overview:
Arizona State University (ASU) is a top-ranked research university located in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. It is known for its innovative approach to education, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. ASU is recognized for its commitment to inclusivity, serving learners at all stages of life and fostering a diverse and welcoming community.
Services Offered:
ASU provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Support:
Tutoring, advising, and academic success resources.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, financial aid programs, and tuition assistance.Student Life:
Housing and dining, clubs and activities, health and wellness services, and transportation.Career Services:
Job and career resources, internship opportunities, and career counseling.Student Life and Campus Experience:
ASU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide array of clubs, organizations, and events, fostering personal growth and development. The university's diverse student body creates a rich cultural environment, promoting global perspectives and intercultural understanding.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-Ranked Programs:
ASU boasts numerous top-ranked programs, including 82 programs ranked in the top 25 nationally, with 37 in the top 10.Innovative Learning Environment:
ASU embraces a flexible and personalized approach to learning, allowing students to customize their academic journey.World-Class Faculty:
Students benefit from instruction led by renowned professors and researchers, many of whom are leaders in their fields.Global Impact:
ASU is consistently ranked among the top universities for global impact, demonstrating its commitment to addressing global challenges.Diverse and Inclusive Community:
ASU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, embracing students from all backgrounds and promoting a sense of belonging.Academic Programs:
ASU offers over 800 degree programs across a wide range of disciplines, including:
Undergraduate:
More than 400 undergraduate degrees in fields such as engineering, journalism, business, sustainability, nursing, education, and more.Graduate:
Over 450 graduate degrees, including master's and doctoral programs.Other:
ASU is known for its commitment to research and innovation, with a strong focus on addressing real-world challenges. The university is also a leader in sustainability, promoting environmental responsibility and social justice.
Entry Requirements:
EU Home Students and International Students Outside the EU:
- Bachelor's Degree: All applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in education, geography, or a related field from a regionally accredited institution.
- Overall GPA: Applicants must possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale of 4.00 = "A") during their last 60 hours of undergraduate studies. Alternatively, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale of 4.00 = "A") in a relevant master's degree program is also acceptable.
Additional Required Documents:
- Graduate Admission Application and Fee: All applicants must submit a completed application form along with the associated application fee.
- Official Transcripts: Applicants must provide official transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
- Personal Statement: A well-crafted personal statement outlining the applicant's academic and professional goals, as well as their reasons for pursuing this specific program.
- Resume: A comprehensive resume showcasing the applicant's relevant academic and professional experiences.
- Three Letters of Recommendation: Applicants must secure three letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to their academic and professional achievements.
