

The ACE - Teaching Fellows program is a two-year full-time pathway designed for educators and professionals seeking to advance their skills in teaching, curriculum development, and educational leadership. Across four semesters, participants explore contemporary pedagogical theories, instructional strategies, assessment methods, and leadership practices, preparing them to create engaging and effective learning environments. The curriculum emphasizes both theory and applied practice, allowing students to design curriculum, implement innovative teaching strategies, and assess educational outcomes. Through seminars, classroom simulations, and applied research projects, participants develop teaching expertise, curriculum design skills, educational research proficiency, and leadership capabilities, equipping them to excel in diverse educational settings.
The program also highlights ethical teaching practices, interdisciplinary collaboration, and applied research in education. Students work closely with faculty mentors, engage in supervised teaching experiences, and complete projects that link theoretical frameworks with practical classroom challenges. This immersive learning environment strengthens instructional planning, student assessment, classroom management, and communication skills. Graduates leave the program prepared to lead educational initiatives, improve learning outcomes, or pursue further study in education policy or leadership roles within schools, universities, and educational organizations.
Semester 1 - Foundations of Teaching and Learning
• Educational Psychology and Development
• Foundations of Curriculum Design
• Instructional Strategies and Methods
• Research Methods in Education
Semester 2 - Applied Teaching and Assessment
• Classroom Management and Pedagogy
• Assessment and Evaluation Strategies
• Integrating Technology in Education
• Practicum / Applied Teaching Project
Semester 3 - Leadership and Advanced Instruction
• Educational Leadership and Policy
• Advanced Curriculum Design
• Inclusive Education Practices
• Elective Modules in Special Education or Instructional Technology
Semester 4 - Capstone Project and Professional Development
• Independent Research / Master’s Thesis
• Program Evaluation and Policy Analysis
• Leadership in Educational Settings
• Professional Portfolio and Presentation
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers where advanced teaching skills, educational leadership, and applied research are critical. Potential career paths include curriculum specialist, instructional coordinator, educational consultant, school administrator, and teacher leader, where graduates apply pedagogical expertise, leadership, and research skills to improve learning outcomes, develop innovative curriculum, and guide instructional initiatives. The program equips students to lead professional development, manage educational programs, implement evidence-based teaching practices, and influence policy within schools or educational organizations. Graduates are also positioned for doctoral studies, leadership roles, or policy advisory positions in education, providing broad opportunities to shape the future of teaching and learning.
This program provides a comprehensive and applied approach to teaching strategies, curriculum development, instructional leadership, educational research, and assessment practices. Participants benefit from mentorship by experienced educators, interactive seminars, and hands-on projects that connect theory with classroom practice. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical leadership, and innovative instructional design, preparing graduates to lead educational initiatives, enhance student learning, and implement evidence-based teaching practices. Through immersive study, applied research, and professional development, students gain the expertise, confidence, and leadership skills necessary to excel in educational roles and make a meaningful impact in schools, universities, and educational organizations.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 574 631 5000
Email: admissions@nd.edu
Address: University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States