School of Education

Preparing Community Leaders for Current Trends


Welcome to Notre Dame de Namur University's School of Education, where we empower future educators and leaders to excel in their careers and communities. Our commitment to personalized attention and comprehensive support ensures that each student receives the guidance and resources they need to succeed. With a focus on practical experience and cutting-edge educational practices, our graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of today's dynamic educational landscape.

elm-pg-billboard-form iStock-1492402004 copy

NDNU School of Education Overview

The goal of the School of Education is to prepare competent teachers, specialists, administrators, and community leaders through professional programs that reflect current trends.


Personalized attention and individualized counseling for students, field orientation of programs, and successful placement of practicum students and graduates have characterized the program since its inception. All credentials are credited by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).

Feature Teaser

Preparing Community Leaders for Current Trends

The School of Education offers students the possibility of enrolling concurrently in some master’s and credential programs. 

  • The School has several integrated programs designed to support each student as they prepare to be a professional educator or a community leader. 

  • Integrated programs articulate some coursework between the credential and the graduate degree, significantly reducing the time and financial resources required to earn a degree. 

  • Faculty representing diverse academic and practical expertise teach the courses. Courses are available during both Summer sessions and the Fall and Spring semesters. 

  • We offer courses on afternoons/evenings and weekends to accommodate work commitments.

Learn, Grow, and Succeed in Our Thriving Academic Community

Experience a unique blend of diverse academic programs and a vibrant community life. Let's shape your future together.

Learn More

School of Education Master Degree Programs

Smart Teaser

Master of Arts Education

The goal of this degree program is to build the capacity of educators to promote social justice in their schools and communities through improved teaching practice, curriculum development, instructional design and assessment, program planning, and research.

MA Ed
Smart Teaser

Master of Arts in School Administration

NDNU’s Preliminary Administrative Services Credential and Master of Arts in School Administration is a 30 – unit integrated program. The program includes courses in leadership, management, finance, human resources, curriculum development, and assessment.

MA SA
Smart Teaser

Master of Arts in Special Education -
Education Specialist Credential

Notre Dame de Namur University has long been recognized for the excellence of our programs in education. Presently, the NDNU education department offers two education specialist credentials: mild/moderate support needs/extensive support needs. 

MA SPED
Smart Teaser

Master of Arts Educational Therapy

Do you want to help students discover a love of learning? Are you an educator or someone looking for a career change who seeks to better serve struggling students? NDNU is proud to be one of only three schools in the U.S. to offer a Master of Arts in Educational Therapy degree.

MA ET
Smart Teaser

Master of Arts in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership

The MA DEI Leadership at NDNU is an interdisciplinary program designed to train effective, informed, and agile leaders who understand the complex terrain of inequality, bias, and social justice and who are prepared to lead organizational change and transformation. The program focuses on leadership competencies, deep knowledge in the field, and applied diversity, equity, and social justice experiences.

MA DEI Leadership
Smart Teaser

Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

The Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) degree program at Notre Dame de Namur University (NDNU) is an excellent online program for individuals around the nation and the world who are searching for a values-based education in TESOL that reflects the latest advances in the field and in the use of technology.

MA TESOL

Take the Next Step

Ready to transform your future with Notre Dame de Namur University? Don't wait, apply now and start your journey towards academic excellence and personal growth.

Apply Now

Teaching Credentials

Smart Teaser

Single Subject Credential

Notre Dame de Namur University has long been recognized for its excellent programs in education. Presently, NDNU offers four credentials and four master’s degrees within the education department in the School of Education. Many of our alumni are active teachers and administrators in San Mateo County and throughout the peninsula.

Single Subject Credential
Smart Teaser

Multiple Subject Credential

The Multiple Subject Program at NDNU is a post-baccalaureate program, which requires a full fifth year, or 33 – semester units, of study. The program at NDNU offers students the opportunity to complete the professional coursework and two student teaching experiences within a calendar year. One semester of student teaching is spent at the primary level and one semester at the intermediate grade level. 

Multiple Subject Credential
Feature Teaser

Welcome from the Interim Dean, Dr. Kelly Vaughn

At NDNU, we believe that education is a lifelong journey of discovery and growth. We are committed to providing an educational experience that nurtures intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, social justice, and ethical decision-making.


Through experiential learning practices, research projects, as well as in-person, hybrid, and online communities, our students gain hands-on experience that enhances their skills and prepares them for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.


As you embark on your academic journey at NDNU’s School of Education, I encourage you to embrace the experiences that await you. To all our new and returning students, welcome.

Feature Teaser

Why NDNU is the Right Choice for You

At Notre Dame de Namur University (NDNU), we believe that education is a lifelong journey. Whether you’re looking to start a new career, gain advanced skills, or explore a passion, NDNU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to help you achieve your goals.


With dedicated faculty, flexible learning options, and a supportive community, NDNU provides the tools and environment to help you succeed—whether you’re just beginning your academic journey or building on years of professional experience.


What Sets NDNU Apart?

  1. Flexible Learning: Choose from in-person, online, or hybrid programs that fit your schedule.

  2. Dedicated Faculty: Our experienced educators are committed to your success and offer personalized guidance throughout your academic journey.

  3. Supportive Community: Join a diverse community of learners who share your passion for growth and discovery.

Request More Information

elm-pg-billboard-form-centered LQ3A1666

Notre Dame de Namur University

1500 Ralston Avenue, Belmont, CA 94002 | (650) 508-3600 | admissions@ndnu.edu

Connect with us

© 2022 Notre Dame de Namur University. All rights reserved.