WVU Online for Teachers

West Virginia University offers nine graduate degrees and dozens of professional development courses for educators who want the flexibility of online learning, the affordability of a state university, and a degree that's nationally recognized. Some programs combine face-to-face instruction with online learning to give the students the best of both experiences. Financial aid is available.

Athletic Coaching Education (M.S.) - This degree is tailored for teachers who also coach. They take online classes during the academic year and then come to Morgantown for two weeks in the summer.

Communication Studies (M.A.) Instructional Track - This degree provides educators with applicable communication skills to enhance their teaching. Classes are offered four weeks in the summer in selected locations in West Virginia.

Educational Leadership (M.A. and certificates) - Educators who want to move into administration can enroll in the master's program or the principal or superintendent's certificate program if they already have a master's degree. Courses are offered online with some face-to-face meeting.

Elementary Education (M.A.) - This degree is offered online for certified teachers who want to enhance their knowledge and skills in the elementary classroom.

Instructional Design and Technology (M.A.) - Developing learning materials for online classes and training is one of the fastest growing fields in education. Major features of this online graduate program include educational psychology, instructional technology and design, and program evaluation.

Physical Education Teacher Education (M.S.) - This program offers physical education teachers the flexibility of online learning during the academic year with a two-week experience in Morgantown over two summers.

School Health Education (M.S.) - The role of the educator in promoting health and wellness for students is expanding. This online program is designed for certified teachers who want to obtain certification in this area along with a master's degree.

Secondary Education (M.A.) - This online degree is offered with an emphasis social studies or science. The courses offer academic experiences designed to increase skills in curriculum development for these content areas.

Special Education (M.A.) - This online degree leads to additional teaching certification or endorsements in six areas of specialization: autism, early intervention, gifted education, low vision/blindness, multicategorical, and severe/multiple disabilities.

Professional Development - WVU partners with school boards, RESAs, and the State Office of Professional Development to offer courses designed to enhance teaching. The courses also provide the graduate credit that educators need for re-certification and salary increases.