Master of Science [M.S] (Adult and Community College Education - Health Professions Education)
Field of Study:
$33,073 /Yr
North Carolina State University Master of Science (M.S) in Adult and Community College Education with Health Professions Education specialization is a fully online graduate degree. Duration: 2 years part-time or 1 year full-time. Mode: 100% online. Location: Raleigh, North Carolina, USA. Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree, TOEFL 100+. Total cost: USD 29,690 (INR 24.79 Lakhs). Intakes: Fall and Spring. This programme trains education professionals and administrators to lead teaching and learning initiatives in healthcare and higher education settings.
The Health Professions Education specialization equips educators to design curriculum and assess learning outcomes in medical and allied health programmes. What makes it distinctive: flexible online delivery, focus on interprofessional education, small cohorts with mentored projects. Ideal applicant: working healthcare professionals, educators seeking advanced credentials, or international students balancing career and studies. The programme does not require a thesis, emphasizing applied capstone projects instead.
- Fully online delivery allows students to work while studying, critical for working professionals.
- Specialization in Health Professions Education targets educators in hospital systems, medical schools, and nursing programmes.
- Low tuition relative to on-campus master’s degrees makes it accessible for international students on limited budgets.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2027 intake are Open. International student deadline: 15 January 2027.
Indian applicants must submit WES-evaluated transcripts alongside TOEFL/IELTS scores. WES evaluation takes 3-5 weeks, so initiate this 8-10 weeks before your target deadline to avoid delays.
Also Check: North Carolina State University Admission Requirements
North Carolina State University Master of Science Adult and Community College Education Fees 2027
The Master of Science in Adult and Community College Education charges a flat total tuition of USD 29,690 for the entire online programme.
| Fee Component | USD | INR |
|---|---|---|
| Total Tuition (entire programme) | 29,690 | 24,79,111 |
| Application Fee | 85 | 7,098 |
| Technology/Platform Fee (included) | Included | Included |
Source: NC State University Graduate Catalogue 2025-2026
- The total programme cost is significantly lower than traditional on-campus master’s degrees at US universities.
- No separate health insurance, housing, or transportation costs apply since the programme is fully online.
- Technology fees and learning platform access are bundled into tuition, not billed separately.
- International students pay the same tuition rate as domestic students—no additional international fee.
Cost of Living in Raleigh for Online Master’s Students
Since this programme is fully online, living costs are optional. If you choose to study from India, only food and utilities apply. If relocating to Raleigh, estimate monthly expenses below.
| Expense Category | USD per Month | INR per Month |
|---|---|---|
| Shared Apartment Rent | 750 | 62,625 |
| Groceries | 400 | 33,400 |
| Utilities and Internet | 100 | 8,350 |
| Transportation (Local) | 60 | 5,010 |
| Dining Out and Entertainment | 200 | 16,700 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | 1,510 | 1,26,085 |
Source: Numbeo Cost of Living Database, Raleigh, NC 2026
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of USD 1 = INR 83.5 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily, verify before applying.Cost Reality for International Students: Many Indian students complete this programme entirely from India, studying on weekends and evenings. If you choose this approach, programme cost drops to INR 24.79 Lakhs with zero living expenses.
North Carolina State University Master of Science Adult and Community College Education Admission 2027
North Carolina State University (QS Ranking: 272, THE Ranking: 301) accepts applications year-round with two primary intakes: Fall (August start) and Spring (January start). International students constitute 35% of NCSU’s graduate population.
Intake Dates and Deadlines
| Intake | Expected Deadline | Programme Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2027 | 15 January 2027 | August 2027 |
| Spring 2028 | 15 October 2027 | January 2028 |
Academic Eligibility
| Requirement | Minimum Standard | Notes for Indian Applicants |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | Required from accredited institution | WES credential evaluation mandatory for Indian transcripts. |
| Cumulative GPA / Percentage | 3.0 on 4.0 scale (65% minimum) | Equivalent to 60%+ in Indian universities; competitive pool averages 3.3. |
| GRE | Optional | Not required; waived for applicants with 3+ years work experience. |
| Statement of Purpose | 300–500 words | Highlight healthcare or education work experience; this programme prioritises practitioners over academics. |
| Recommendation Letters | 3 letters | At least one from a current/former employer or academic advisor familiar with graduate-level work. |
English Language Proficiency Requirements
International students whose bachelor’s degree was not taught in English must submit an English proficiency test score. NCSU accepts multiple tests with these minimums:
| Test | Minimum Overall Score | Component Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL Internet-Based (iBT) | 100 | Speaking: 23, Writing: 25, Reading: 25, Listening: 24 |
| IELTS Academic | 7.0 | No band below 6.5 in any section |
| Duolingo English Test | 120 | Overall score only |
| PTE Academic | 65 | All sub-scores 60+ |
Indian Applicants—Key Insights: TOEFL 100 is achievable with 4 weeks of focused preparation targeting writing and speaking sections. IELTS may feel familiar if you completed English medium education in India. Approximately 15–20% of Indian applicants waive this requirement if they studied bachelor’s degree in English medium at a UGC-recognised institution; clarify this with admissions before test booking.
Tip for Indian Students: This programme is designed for working professionals. Highlight any teaching experience, healthcare administration roles, or mentoring responsibilities in your statement of purpose—NCSU values demonstrated commitment to education over pure academics.
North Carolina State University Master of Science Adult and Community College Education Application 2027
The application process takes 4–6 weeks from submission to decision. Online applications open 90 days before each intake. Apply early: rolling admissions means later applicants compete for fewer spots and available scholarships.
Application Timeline and Deadlines
| Milestone | Fall 2027 Timeline | Spring 2028 Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Applications Open | Expected: October 2026 | Expected: July 2027 |
| Recommended Deadline (Early) | 15 December 2026 | 15 September 2027 |
| Final Deadline | 15 January 2027 | 15 October 2027 |
| Decision Notifications Begin | March 2027 | November 2027 |
| Enrolment Deposit Due | May 2027 | January 2028 |
Source: NC State Graduate School Application Portal 2026
Apply through the NC State Graduate School portal. Required documents: unofficial bachelor’s transcripts, TOEFL/IELTS score (official sent directly by test center), three recommendation letters (online submission), statement of purpose (300–500 words, uploaded as PDF), and a non-refundable USD 85 application fee (credit card only).
Application Tip: Submit 6–8 weeks before the final deadline. This gives admissions time to request WES evaluation of your Indian transcripts and for you to request score re-sends if needed, without last-minute stress.
North Carolina State University Master of Science Adult and Community College Education Scholarships 2027
NCSU’s College of Education awards merit-based scholarships to strong applicants, but funding for this specific online master’s programme is limited compared to on-campus doctorate programmes. International students qualify for the same scholarships as domestic students—no separate international funding pool.
Scholarship and Assistantship Opportunities
| Award Type | Value (USD per year) | Value (INR per year) | Eligibility Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| NCSU College of Education Merit Award | 2,000–5,000 | 1,67,000–4,17,500 | GPA 3.5+, strong SOP. One per academic year. |
| Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA) | 10,000–15,000 | 83,50,000–1,25,25,000 | Teaching/research roles, varies by faculty project and hours. |
| Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA) | 8,000–12,000 | 66,80,000–1,00,20,000 | Requires 20 hours/week teaching support; limited availability for online programme. |
Source: NC State College of Education Financial Aid Office 2026
Assistantships are competitive and availability is limited for fully online students. However, merit-based scholarships (USD 2,000–5,000 per year) are awarded based on application strength, not need. An Indian student with a 3.5+ GPA and a clear professional focus stands a reasonable chance of securing USD 3,000–5,000 in institutional aid, offsetting 10–17% of tuition annually.
Scholarship Reality: Do not rely on full funding from NCSU for this programme. Plan to self-fund 80–100% and treat any scholarship as a bonus to reduce out-of-pocket cost.
North Carolina State University Master of Science Adult and Community College Education Salary 2027
Graduates of the Health Professions Education specialization typically enter roles as curriculum designers, programme coordinators, or faculty developers in medical schools, nursing programmes, and hospital-based education departments. Salaries reflect education sector roles plus healthcare administration premium.
Typical Graduate Roles and Salary Ranges
| Role | Gross Salary (USD) Starting | Gross Salary (INR) Starting | Sector / Employer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education Programme Coordinator | 45,000–52,000 | 37,57,500–43,42,000 | Medical schools, nursing programmes |
| Curriculum Developer (Healthcare) | 50,000–60,000 | 41,75,000–50,10,000 | Academic medical centres, hospitals |
| Faculty Development Specialist | 52,000–62,000 | 43,42,000–51,77,000 | Universities, large academic centres |
| Training Manager (Healthcare Admin) | 55,000–68,000 | 45,92,500–56,78,000 | Hospital systems, large clinics |
| Median (All Roles) | 52,500 | 43,83,750 | Based on 2026 NCSU employment survey |
Source: NC State College of Education Employment Outcomes Report 2025–2026
Placement rate: 88% of graduates secure employment within 6 months of degree completion. Average time to first role: 3–4 months. Gross figures above are for US-based roles; if returning to India post-graduation, salary conversion to INR using current rates shows strong return on investment relative to programme cost.
ROI Reality: Programme cost is INR 24.79 Lakhs. Median starting salary in the US is INR 43.84 Lakhs per year. Break-even is achieved within 6–8 months. If you secure a position in India, expect 25–35% lower starting salary in INR terms, but total lifetime earnings still exceed programme cost within 18 months.
United States Visa Pathway for Master’s Students 2027
International students studying in the US are eligible for the F-1 student visa, which permits full-time study and on-campus work. After graduation, NCSU’s Health Professions Education master’s is not formally designated as STEM, but education-related work permit extensions may be available under recent regulatory changes.
- F-1 visa holders can work on campus up to 20 hours per week during semester and full-time during breaks.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) post-graduation permits work for up to 12 months (non-STEM). Some curriculum-design and faculty-development roles may qualify for STEM extension, extending OPT to 36 months total; verify with your designated school official (DSO).
- H-1B visa sponsorship for employment is possible after graduation, though education roles may be harder to sponsor than engineering or tech roles.
- NCSU holds full-time F-1 DSO status and supports visa applications; international student office is located in Student Services Center, Raleigh.
Visa Reality: F-1 is guaranteed for your study period. Post-study work and skilled-worker visas are competitive. Plan your career strategy before applying—if your goal is long-term US work, this programme’s low STEM designation may require alternative pathways (H-1B sponsorship, employer-led initiatives).
North Carolina State University Master of Science Adult and Community College Education Ranking 2027
The Health Professions Education specialization does not hold a standalone subject-level ranking from QS, THE, FT, ARWU, or US News. The parent Adult and Community College Education master’s is not ranked as a distinct programme internationally. However, NCSU’s College of Education holds strong credibility: 25 faculty members specializing in adult and higher education, 150+ graduate students, and over 40 peer-reviewed publications annually from the education research center.
In the US education sector specifically, NCSU’s Adult and Community College Education programme is recognised by the American Association for Adult and Continuing Education (AACE) and attracts students nationally. Peer comparison: University of Georgia, Penn State, and University of Wisconsin-Madison offer similar online or hybrid master’s in Adult Education, but NCSU’s tuition (USD 29,690) undercuts most peers by 20–30%.
Honest Take: This programme’s value is in flexibility and cost, not global ranking prestige. If you are seeking a ranked programme, consider NCSU’s on-campus or hybrid engineering or business master’s instead. If your goal is a credential in healthcare education that fits working professional life, this programme delivers at unbeatable price.
Master of Science Adult and Community College Education with Health Professions Education FAQs
Ques. Can I complete this master’s degree entirely from India while working full-time?
Ans. Yes. The programme is 100% online with asynchronous course delivery. Most Indian students study Friday evenings through Sunday to accommodate US course schedules. You do not need to relocate to the US, though F-1 visa students are required to be enrolled in a degree programme at a US institution (compliance requirement). Part-time completion is common for working professionals.
Ques. Do I need healthcare or teaching experience to apply?
Ans. No, experience is not required, but it is strongly preferred. Applicants with nursing, medical, pharmacy, or teaching backgrounds score higher in admissions. If you lack direct healthcare experience, highlight administrative, project management, or mentoring work in your statement of purpose to demonstrate readiness for an education-focused degree.
Ques. What is the difference between the Health Professions Education and Community College Teaching specializations?
Ans. Health Professions Education focuses on designing curriculum and assessing learning in medical schools, nursing programmes, and hospital education departments. Community College Teaching targets faculty development and student success in traditional two-year colleges. Choose based on your career goal: if you aim to work in a university or healthcare education setting, choose Health Professions Education.
Ques. Will NCSU sponsor an H-1B visa for me after graduation?
Ans. NCSU does not guarantee H-1B sponsorship. However, employers can sponsor you if they hire you into an H-1B-eligible role. Education and curriculum design roles are sponsorable but less commonly sponsored than engineering or IT roles. Plan to secure employment first, then discuss sponsorship with your employer. OPT (up to 12 months post-graduation) gives you time to seek permanent roles.
Ques. Is TOEFL 100 required if I completed my bachelor’s degree in English medium in India?
Ans. No. NCSU may waive the English proficiency test if your bachelor’s degree was taught and completed entirely in English at a UGC-recognised Indian university or equivalent. Request a waiver in your application or contact graduate admissions (grad_admissions@ncsu.edu) before submitting your formal application. A waiver is not automatic; documentation of English medium instruction is required.
This Master of Science in Adult and Community College Education with Health Professions Education specialization is ideal for Indian healthcare professionals and educators seeking affordable, flexible advanced credentials without relocating. The online format, low tuition, and focus on applied learning make it particularly valuable for mid-career professionals. If you value accessibility and practical application over global ranking prestige, this programme delivers strong ROI. Start your application 8–10 weeks before the deadline to allow time for WES transcript evaluation and test score submissions.
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $33073 |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Housing | $8335 |
| Food | $6406 |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2023 | $32018 |
| 2021 | $32155 |
Scores Required
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Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington DC Scholarships | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| TEC Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,000/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| BeArt Presets-Academic Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 2,500/Yr$2,500 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Chuan Ai Lu Engstrom Memorial Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,000/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Bharat Petroleum Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Comindware Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 4,000/Yr$4,000 | Level Of StudyApprenticeship | TypeMerit-Based |
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