Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions. If you do not see an answer or would like more information, let us know: at marypat@HumaneEducation.org
Are these programs accredited?
Yes. IHE's graduate programs in humane education are offered through a partnership between IHE and Antioch University which is a fully accredited university in New Hampshire and part of the Antioch University system.
Will I be licensed to teach after I complete the M.Ed. degree?
No. Each state has its own regulations and requirements for licensure. If you are interested in becoming licensed to teach in your state’s public school system, you must contact the department of education in your state to find out what the requirements and criteria for licensure are. Antioch New England offers an M.Ed. program that leads to teacher certification. More information can be found here.
As an online student, do I receive access to typical university services?
Yes. As an online student, we will help you receive a student ID and gain access to services such as access to the university library and career services, writing center, IT help, financial aid counselors and accommodation support.
I started a degree elsewhere and want to transfer. Will Antioch accept transferred credits?
Yes, Antioch will accept transfer students and credits. Please contact Mary Pat Champeau, IHE Director of Graduate Programs: marypat@humaneeducation.org for details.
How many graduate students are in the program?
In any given semester, there are approximately 35-50 students in the humane education graduate programs.
How long has the program been in existence?
IHE’s graduate programs in humane education have been offered since 2000 — first through a partnership with Cambridge College (2000-2010) and then through Valparaiso University (2011-2019). In addition, IHE and Valparaiso University partnered with Saybrook University to offer a Ph.D. program with a humane education specialization in 2014. Our current university partner (as of January 2020) is Antioch University New England.
What kind of job can I get with this degree?
Comprehensive humane education is a relatively new field. We work with each student to determine professional goals and plan practicum, elective, and capstone work to support these goals.
Graduates work in many different arenas, including education, the arts, business, technology, non-profit management and outreach, health and human services, animal protection, environmental preservation, and social entrepreneurship.
Are international students eligible for these online programs?
Yes, as long as you have the equivalent of an undergraduate (bachelor’s) degree.
What is the difference between these programs?
All degree programs in humane education share five foundational courses:
- Introduction to Humane Education
- Environmental Ethics
- Animal Protection
- Human Rights
- Culture & Change
Assignments and readings within the courses are differentiated. The M.Ed. program is designed for classroom educators; other programs are designed for non-classroom educators. Program and course descriptions are available here.
Can I take as many classes as I’d like each semester?
Courses are rigorous. Students are encouraged to take no more than two courses per semester (6 credits), though you may take up to 3 courses (9 credits) if you wish.
Do I have to travel to Antioch at any time?
No, although students are welcome to visit, participate in commencement ceremonies, and attend other activities offered on any Antioch campus.
What if I’ve never taken an online class before?
Students come into the program with varying levels of experience with technology. Beginning with your first course, there is plenty of support available for those who’ve never participated in online studies. Contact the IHE Director of Graduate Programs if you have any difficulty with the online delivery system. The courses are set up to be very user-friendly.
How can I get to know my classmates?
Community is very important to us. We have designed the courses to include many opportunities for communication and collaboration among students. For example, in each course, students have a chance to get to know their classmates through personal introductions, discussion boards, video conferencing, a virtual student lounge and optional collaborative projects.
Do I have to log in at a certain time?
No. Courses are delivered via SAKAI, Antioch’s online Learning Management System. Students receive their course syllabi at the start of each semester, along with instructions on how to access the discussion boards, participate in video salons, post responses to film festivals, and submit assignments. Real-time video discussions are scheduled based on students’ availability.
Are the graduate programs completely online?
Yes, with the exception of a one-week, 3-credit Humane Education Residency that is not required, but is highly encouraged!
What degrees are offered?
We offer the following fully accredited degrees in partnership with Antioch University:
What is the tuition for the graduate programs?
Tuition for the master's and certificate programs: $732 per credit.
Tuition for the Ed.D. program: $925 per credit.
Please see more information here.
What are the admission requirements?
Applicants must have an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university (in any subject) and must be willing to provide two letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose essay (500-750 words). International students must demonstrate a working knowledge of English. The admissions process includes a telephone or video interview with Mary Pat Champeau, IHE Director of Graduate Programs.
In certain cases, Antioch University does not require an applicant to have completed an undergraduate degree. Information can be found here.
Ed.D. admissions requirements can be found here.
If I have other questions, or just want to talk about my goals in the program, whom should I contact?
Please contact the IHE Director of Graduate Programs, Mary Pat Champeau at marypat@humaneeducation.org or call her direct line at (207) 667-1172.