WEST LIBERTY — West Liberty University has launched two new concentrations within its fully online Master of Arts in Education program: Inclusive and Trauma-Responsive Teaching and Integrated STEAM Teaching.

These additions further strengthen WLU’s commitment to preparing educators with advanced skills that meet the rapidly evolving needs of today’s K-12 learning environments.

“These two concentrations were created to directly address the growing demands in our schools,” said Richard Whitehead, chair of Undergraduate & Graduate Education. “The MAEd program, already known for its flexible, practitioner-focused design, now offers specialized pathways that allow educators to tailor their studies to their professional goals while benefiting from high-quality instruction and individualized faculty support.”

The Inclusive and Trauma-Responsive Teaching concentration equips educators to support diverse learners through advanced coursework in autism spectrum disorders, collaborative practices, trauma-informed pedagogy, and applied behavior analysis. Candidates gain evidence-based strategies to create safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environments where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

The Integrated STEAM Teaching concentration prepares educators to design and deliver inquiry-based instruction that integrates science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Through exploration in scientific inquiry, engineering mindsets, arts integration, mathematical reasoning, and inclusive instructional practices, educators learn to promote creativity, problem-solving, and authentic engagement across K-12 classrooms.

According to university officials, chools across the region and nation are experiencing an increased need for trauma-informed practices, interdisciplinary instruction, and teachers with specialized training in STEAM. WLU developed these concentrations in

response to those needs, ensuring that graduates leave equipped with research-driven strategies, hands-on tools, and targeted expertise.

The MAEd program is offered fully online, allowing working professionals to complete coursework with maximum flexibility.

Program information, curriculum details, and application access are available at:

westliberty.edu/education/academic-programs/master-of-arts-in-education/