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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I complete the MEd program fully online through Open Learning?
Yes. You will be able to take all your core courses and enough electives to complete your program through distance. However, please be aware that not all electives are available online through Open Learning, for example our Inclusive and Special Ed electives are only available on-campus.
Does this program allow me to become a teacher in the BC public school system?
No. To teach in the public school system, you need a Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree and Teacher Regulation Branch of BC certification. Please see our on-campus BEd programs.
Do I have to take the core courses first?
No. Take them in whatever order works for you, as long as you complete all of them.
Is the program available part- and full-time?
This depends. If courses are available when you want to take them and you are a domestic student, you can study part-time. Many MEd courses are available online through Open Learning, which means you can study according to your own schedule.
Please work closely with the Education Graduate Programs Advisor to develop your program of study.
Can I complete the MEd partly online and partly on campus?
Domestic students can choose a mix of online and on campus courses. The program is designed for flexibility. When it comes to the Exit options (capstone, project, or thesis), please note that capstone is available in either online or on campus format. Project and thesis exit options are on campus only; however, there is no set classroom or class time because these exit options are spent in independent study and research work, in consultation with a faculty supervisor. They can be completed remotely, if your faculty supervisor agrees to meet virtually.
Do I have to be enrolled in the program to take courses?
No. However, you must meet the MEd admission requirements in case you later decide to enrol in the program. You can take up to seven online MEd courses Open Learning courses.
How long does it take to complete the MEd program?
This depends on how many courses you take per semester. You can complete it in as little as 18 months, taking three courses per semester for three semesters and the program completion option in a fourth semester. If you have other obligations, such as full-time work and family responsibilties, we recommend that you take one course per semester (this will result in completing the program in approximately 3.5 years). TRU gives you a maximum of 5 years to complete the program.
Is financial support available?
Financial support is available if you are a Canadian student. See tru.ca/awards for details.
If you are planning to take the MEd program online, visit Student Awards & Financial Aid for more information about financial aid for part- and full-time online students.
How are classes offered and scheduled?
Many on-campus classes are offered evenings and weekends and during the summer semester to provide flexibility and availability for people who are working.
MEd courses available online (through Open Learning) are paced and have a specific start and end date. Start dates are in September, January and May, subject to availability, and registration deadlines apply.
Are MEd courses available online?
Several (but not all) MEd courses are delivered online (through Open Learning). These courses are led by an Open Learning Faculty Member and promote high levels of activity and collaboration.
On average, how many hours per week are spent in an online course?
In an online (Open Learning) course, expect to spend 7–10 hours per week on one course.
What are the program completion options?
The MEd offers thesis, final project or capstone program completion options. See the Program Details page for a decription of each option. We recommend you make an appointment with your Program Advisor before making a decision about your exit option.
Can Open Learning students complete thesis or project?
Yes, usually. Project and thesis exit options are on campus only; however, there is no set classroom or class time because these exit options are spent in independent study and research work, in consultation with a faculty supervisor. They can be completed remotely, if your faculty supervisor agrees to meet virtually. Some supervisors may want to meet in person, so it is important to have this conversation when speaking to potential supervisors.
How much does the program cost?
See tuition costs for:
What is an extension fee?
This fee applies to you if you have completed 30 credits in your program but are still working on your program completion option. You pay an extension fee for every semester you are in until you complete this option.
Are there streams or specialisms in the TRU MEd program?
The MEd has been designed for maximum choice by students. As such, there are no streams, majors, minors or specialisms in the TRU MEd. After completing the core courses, students select from across the elective courses.
