The School of Education serves educational leaders by providing online graduate studies in education to reach worldwide populations. The M.Ed. program is designed to reach national and international markets and does not purport to provide licensure or certification in any particular state or country.

There are several reasons an educator would want to pursue a graduate degree in education that does not lead directly to state licensing or certification. Among the reasons cited by NCU Learners are:

1. "Move up" steps on the salary schedule.
2. Improve skills and professionalism in general or to pursue a “leadership” position out of the classroom (school-based or district level).
3. Advance as a “teacher leader” through a graduate degree (already has a bachelor’s degree and certification).
4. Meet the needs of increasingly diverse learners.
5. Works in a traditional K-12 classroom environment (trainer, educational consultant, etc.).

Certification requirements vary by state and district. Learners are advised to contact their state department of education for guidance in obtaining certification or licensure or local school district for approval in fulfilling district level incentive programs. Learners entering the M.Ed. degree program must follow program outlines listed for their elective(s) and/or specialization and must comply with program requirements for degree candidacy and completion.