The University of South Alabama Educator Excellence Scholarship is for graduate students majoring in a teacher education program, who have previously earned an Alabama Professional Educator certificate. This scholarship is specifically designed for those seeking a Class A or AA certification. This scholarship equates to 20% of tuition cost each semester for six consecutive semesters! ÐÓ°ÉÔ´´ admitted to an eligible program and who enroll in classes prior to the start of the term are automatically offered the scholarship.
Application Deadlines
Master of Education - Spring 2026: December 1, Summer 2026: May 1, Fall 2026: July 15
Educational Media - Spring 2026: December 1, Summer 2026: May 1, Fall 2026: July 15
Educational Specialist - Spring 2026: December 1, Summer 2026: May 1, Fall 2026: July 15
- Ed.S. in Instructional Leadership (summer semester admission only - March 15 application deadline)
Alumni Testimonials
Eligibility
In order to be eligible for the Educator Excellence Scholarship, candidates must:
- Meet current admission standards for a teacher education program that leads to certification.
- Be admitted to a graduate teacher education program that leads to advanced certification.*
- Be in good standing with the University, including academic and financial accounting.
- Be enrolled in classes prior to the start of the term.
- Accept award in JagSpot. (You will receive an email with instructions after admission.)
Additional Regulations
- Applies only to courses in enrolled program.
- Does not apply to repeated coursework.
- Maintain a 3.0 GPA.
- Eligible for six consecutive semesters.
It is highly recommended students complete 15 credit hours in their first three semesters.
Scholarship Eligible Programs
- Early Childhood Education (online)
- Elementary Education (online)
- Educational Media and Technology (online)
- Non-teacher certification, but masters program designed for K-12 teachers
- Health Education (6-12)
- Library Media (online)
- Music Education (Master of Music)
- Physical Education (P-12)
- Secondary Education
- Special Education K-6 or 6-12 (online)
*Alternative programs leading to initial certification and the School Counseling program are ineligible.
Degrees Pay Off - Pay Increases

Class A Certification
0-3 years experience
+$6,501
4-6 years experience
+$7,153
7-9 years experience
+$7,465

Class AA Certification
0-3 years experience
+$3,904
4-6 years experience
+$4,292
7-9 years experience
+$4,497

$5,000 annually
Elective courses available for National Board Certification support.
Additional Funding Opportunities
For more information, please contact the Office of Graduate Studies - (251) 380-2630 or ceps@southalabama.edu


