Kent State Online

For decades, school music programs have centered on classical repertoire — and while those traditions remain vital, there’s a growing recognition of the powerful role that rock, jazz, and popular music can play in student learning. Including these genres in K–12 music curricula not only reflects the musical experiences of many students but also strengthens engagement, cultural relevance, and motivation across diverse communities.

For many people, the idea of going back to school isn’t new — it’s something that’s been sitting quietly in the background. A goal postponed. A possibility considered. A “someday” plan.

In special education, effective teaching is grounded in evidence. Research plays a critical role in shaping how educators design instruction, implement interventions, and evaluate student progress. As classrooms become more diverse and student needs increasingly complex, relying solely on experience or intuition is no longer sufficient. Research provides a framework for understanding what works, for whom, and under what conditions.

Stepping into a master’s program in Educational Psychology is an exciting opportunity to deepen your understanding of how people learn and develop across settings. Whether you’re coming from classroom teaching, counseling, curriculum development, or another professional background, Educational Psychology prepares you to apply research-based principles to support learners and improve systems. To make the most of the program, it helps to know what skills and knowledge will set you up for success — and how to prepare before your first course.