Join CalSouthern’s School of Education
The mission of the School of Education is to provide practical undergraduate and graduate degrees to adult learners in an online environment. The School strives to equip the next generation of scholar practitioners to serve as skilled, knowledgeable, and ethical thought leaders. The School is committed to create an environment designed to create opportunities for learners to satisfy their educational goals.
Degree Programs
School of Education Leadership
Dean of Education, AIUS
Dr. Joanna Dreiling, Ph.D.
Dr. Joanna Dreiling, Dean of Education at AIUS, is a leader dedicated to transforming the educational landscape and empowering learners. Since beginning her career as a high school English teacher in 2002, she has consistently demonstrated a passion for fostering academic excellence and innovation.
Dr. Dreiling holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration, an M.A.Ed. in Secondary Teacher Education, and a B.A. in English. With extensive expertise in educator preparation program development, curriculum design, program management, and accreditation, Dr. Dreiling has been a driving force in shaping the future of educator education.
Since joining AIUS in 2015, she has served in roles ranging from lead faculty to Program Chair, culminating in her appointment as Dean. In her current role, Dr. Dreiling chairs the AIUS Council on Educational Innovation and the Faculty Promotions Committee, while actively contributing to interdisciplinary and interdepartmental initiatives across the system.
Deeply committed to advancing educational access and excellence, Dr. Dreiling’s leadership exemplifies her dedication to creating opportunities, driving innovation, and ensuring the highest standards of academic quality.


Program Chair
Dr. Nicole Frederick, Ed.D.
Dr. Nicole Frederick is the Program Chair for Education at AIUS, bringing over 25 years of experience in both K-12 and higher education. Her career spans various roles, including classroom teacher, principal, professor of education, and doctoral chair, which have equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of the educational landscape. Dr. Frederick holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of North Carolina Wilmington, a Master of Arts in Education with a focus on Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Phoenix, and a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Liberty University. In 2009, she earned the distinguished National Board Teacher Certification, the highest professional recognition for educators. Since joining Trident in 2019, Dr. Frederick has been committed to advancing teaching excellence and fostering both personal and professional growth in educators and administrators.
Faculty Mentors
The faculty mentors in CalSouthern’s School of Education are education professionals as well as dedicated, responsive, and highly qualified educators.
They are available to support your learning and mastery of the course content. And, equally important, they will help you utilize the concepts you learn and apply them to resolve challenges commonly faced in today’s increasingly complex and globalized business world, using the latest best practices.
Learn more about this group of professionals dedicated to your success. View faculty directory.


I had a wonderful experience and loved the flexibility of the program. I could go at my own pace, was able to work ahead when I needed to, and to take extra time when I needed to. The faculty mentors were fantastic and very helpful and inspiring. I feel like I got an excellent education for an affordable price and I appreciate everything that it brought to my life.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The mission of the School of Education is to provide practical degrees to adult learners in an online environment. The School strives to equip the next generation of scholar-practitioners to serve as skilled, knowledgeable, and ethical thought leaders. The School of Education is designed to provide learners with the skills to research, implement, and lead effective curriculum and instructional practices to satisfy their educational and professional goals.
You can begin your education at CalSouthern now. Classes at CalSouthern begin monthly. The admissions processes will depend on how quickly you complete the steps in the application process. You may speak to an Admissions Advisor over the phone (1-800-477-2254 ext. 47822) or request information online. Once you have completed the online request, you may hear from an advisor within 24 hours to discuss the next steps toward starting your degree program.
The Master of Education (MEd) in Curriculum and Instruction prepares scholar practitioners to positively impact student learning and achievement. M.Ed. graduates develop the skills to research, implement, and lead effective curriculum and instructional practices.
CalSouthern offers flexible courses in a curriculum tailored to skills utilized in the education industry today. In addition, it was developed for working adults. Degree candidates can pursue an education degree online, allowing the flexibility to study on their own schedules.
Ready to pursue your educational goals? We can help!
Accreditation
California Southern University is a member of the American InterContinental University System. The System is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Please visit the Accreditation & Licensure page to learn more.
CalSouthern cannot guarantee employment, salary, or career advancement. Not all programs are available to residents of all jurisdictions. CalSouthern does not accept applications from residents of Massachusetts, New York, and certain foreign countries.