Masters Degrees in Education, USA

The Graduate School of Education offers several in-service programs that culminate in a Master of Science in Education (MSEd) degree in Special Education. Four program options are available, corresponding with the age/grade level of the applicant's initial certificate:
-Early Childhood Special Education - Birth to Grade 2 (requires initial certification in early childhood education)
-Early Childhood and Childhood Special Education - Birth to Grade 6 (requires initial certification in early childhood and childhood education)
-Childhood Special Education - Grades 1 to 6 (requires initial certification in childhood education)
-Adolescence Special Education - Grades 7 to 12 (requires initial certification in a subject area)

This program is designed to prepare teachers to operationalize “least restrictive environment” philosophies for children and youth with disabilities. Core themes include collaboration with families and other professionals and pedagogy that respects and responds to individual differences. For teachers with initial certification, this program provides knowledge and skills to fulfill various special education teacher roles in today's schools. Sufficient flexibility exists for individuals from undergraduate programs in special education to either deepen their skills in the field or link their special education foundation with the larger context of general education. Similarly, graduates of early childhood, childhood or adolescence education programs may extend their knowledge and skills with students needing special education.

Professional Development

In addition to graduate courses suited to the degree you choose to pursue, fieldwork and student teaching are important components to the program. The program boasts strong content speciality as well as diverse student and faculty background. Faculty advisors and office staff are eager to assist students in tailoring their course of study and field placements. Students are encouraged to take advantage of a well-established network of alumni and professional connections that will help with field visits and placement. There are urban, suburban and rural schools in close proximity where student teaching opportunities are available.

After You Graduate

The completion of this degree and other requirements leads to a New York State certification as a special education teacher. Employment opportunities for teachers have improved significantly over the last few years. Alumni of our programs in education teach at numerous schools regionally and around the country. Due to strict licensure rules, a New York State teaching license is well respected across the nation. Typically, graduates of the programs easily find employment as teachers in other states.

All applicants must submit the following:

- Online graduate degree application and application fee
- Transcripts from each college/university which you have attended
- Two letters of recommendation (the GSE will accept additional letters of recommendation)
- Personal statement (Please see the GSE Admissions website for additional information about the personal statement)
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (max. 2 pages)
- Teaching certification for in-service applicants
- Any program-specific materials (please see the GSE Admissions website for details)

And, for international applicants:
- International Student Financial Statement form
- Official bank statement/proof of support
- Official TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic scores

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With small class sizes, your professors get to know you—an advantage when it’s time to ask for a letter of reference. You’ll also gain more from class discussions in a small-classroom setting.

If your goal is to make the most out of your degree in special education, the MEd in Special Education and Special Education certificate is perfect for you. In addition to learning how to create curricula to meet individual needs of students with disabilities, IUP enables you to pursue your Special Education certificate at the same time. This leads to Commonwealth of Pennsylvania certification in Special Education-all while you earn your MEd in Exceptional Persons.

In addition to offering this track in a flexible, hybrid format, both in-class and online, IUP also offers two other tracks: the MEd in Special Education, or the Special Education Certification Only track.

AS A STUDENT YOU WILL

-Learn from a mix of classes and teaching field experiences designated by Pennsylvania Department of Education requirements.
-Choose between a thesis and non-thesis option.
-Select your electives working in conjunction with your advisor.
-Complete a comprehensive examination as your terminal experience in the course.

If you currently hold teaching certification and are seeking additional certification in special education, you will develop a program of study based upon your past coursework. You will be required to demonstrate competency in teaching methods, child development, and any other area of deficiency noted by the graduate program faculty.

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The M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education is an advanced program of study designed to prepare individuals for leadership positions in the field as teachers or administrators. The accomplished teachers track is designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of in-service, certified teachers. The program administrators track is focused on developing the leadership skills of child-care administrators and primary-level principals. Students in either track will take the same eight core courses and then two additional courses based on their track. All candidates will take the capstone course to complete the program. The M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education is an online program.

Curriculum

Core modules:

ECE 502 Advanced Child Dev: Prebirth Through Eight Years
ECE 504 Play as a Learning Medium
ECE 505 Families, Communities and Education in a Multicultural Society
ECE 511 Trends and Issues in ECE
ECE 512 Integrated Curriculum & Assessment: Birth to Age 8
ECE 513 Advocating for Young Children and Families
ECE 515 Coaching and Supervision in ECE
EDA 508 Introduction to Early Childhood/Special Education

For the additional modules taught on the Accomplished Teachers Track:

http://catalog.wcupa.edu/graduate/education-social-work/early-middle-grades-education/early-childhood-education-med-accomplished-teachers-track/

For the additional modules taught on the Program Administrators Track:

http://catalog.wcupa.edu/graduate/education-social-work/early-middle-grades-education/early-childhood-education-med-program-administrators-track/

NCATE Accreditation

All of our programs are accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). Our programs that lead to teacher certification have been approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE).

Student Experiences

• In 2008-2009, over 10,000 documented hours of community service were provided to area agencies and organizations.
• According to survey data of 2007-2008 teacher-education graduates, over 90% have positions in education-related fields within one year of graduation.
• Our undergraduate candidates participate in community-service experiences that benefit children and their families.

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• A minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 in the Mathematics major.
• A letter of intent written by the applicant expressing professional and educational goals as applied to the program.
• Submission of three letters of recommendation, using the required recommendation form.
• Résumé or curriculum vitae.

E-mail: [email protected] • Phone: 315-267-2165

Visit http://www.potsdam.edu/graduate to view the full application checklist and online application.

The Master of Science for Teachers Adolescence Education program for teaching mathematics (with Middle Childhood extension) is designed to meet current regulations of the New York State Education Department and standards of the National Council of Accreditation for Teacher Education (NCATE) and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), while also incorporating Advisory Board recommendations and alumni feedback. The MST Mathematics Education program is nationally recognized by the NCTM and leads to Initial / Professional Certification in Adolescence Education, Mathematics (Grades 7-12) with an extension certification for grades 5-6. Program studies begin in the Summer.

Required Program Courses
Minimum of 48 credit hours
(Prerequisite coursework may be required prior to, or concurrent with, program studies.)

GRED 556, Reading in Middle/Secondary Schools ...................3 credits
GRED 557, Writing in Middle/Secondary Schools ...................3 credits
GRED 568, Teaching Mathematics in Middle Schools ..............3 credits
GRED 569, Teaching Mathematics in Secondary Schools ...........3 credits
GRED 578, Practicum in Middle School Mathematics..............2 credits
GRED 579, Practicum in Secondary School Mathematics ..........2 credits
GRED 600, Philosophical Foundations of Education ................3 credits
GRED 667, Topics and Research in Mathematics Education .......3 credits
GRED 670A, Culminating Experience Portfolio .....................3 credits
SPED 505, Introduction to Special Education .........................3 credits

HLTH 530, School Health (certification requirement) ..............3 credits

Technology elective ......................................................3 credits
Education elective ........................................................3 credits

GRED 676, Student Teaching Seminar ................................2 credits
GRED 694, Student Teaching in Middle School (Grades 5-9) .....6 credits
GRED 697, Student Teaching in Senior High (Grades 10-12) ....6 credits

GRED 677 is required if the candidate’s undergraduate work does not include a course in developmental, adolescent, or educational psychology. This course may count as the education elective, with permission of the advisor.

Full or conditional admission is available.

The GRE Exam (or equivalent) is required for all teacher preparation program candidates who are seeking certification (for applicants seeking admission for Fall 2015 forward). All other graduate programs, including non-certification options, do not require this exam. More information on the GRE exam can be found by visiting http://www.gre.org. SUNY Potsdam’s code for sending score reports is 2545.

Uniqueness of Program

The MST Adolescence Education program in Mathematics Education is both NCATE accredited and nationally recognized by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM).

One Couple’s Testimonial . . .

“Our experience at SUNY Potsdam was life changing. Not only did we get the preparation we needed for our careers as math teachers, we met many amazing people, including professors, friends, and each other. SUNY Potsdam gave us the confidence and courage to move out of our comfort zone, and start careers together in southwest Arizona.” —Travis and Amanda (Hunkins) Bogart
Math Education, SUNY Potsdam Class of 2012

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• A letter of intent written by the applicant expressing professional goals as applied to the program.
• Submission of two letters of recommendation, using the required recommendation form.
• Submission of an essay or college-level paper.
• A video of the candidate teaching a class or coordinating a rehearsal. Candidates may also submit a live or video audition on the candidate’s primary instrument.

E-mail: [email protected] • Phone: 315-267-2165

Visit http://www.potsdam.edu/graduate to view the full application checklist and online application.

The Master of Music in Education at the Crane School of Music is one of the largest music teacher preparation programs in the world. Crane-prepared music teachers are sought after by schools everywhere. For years, our students and faculty have held lead- ership positions in local school districts, as well as in state and national organizations that shape our nation’s musical future. The program strives to assist teachers to become reflective practitioners, lifelong learners, and persons able to integrate their knowledge of subject matter, pedagogy, students, the school and the larger community to maximize the education and welfare of students. Program start dates: Summer, Fall, Spring.

Required Program Courses

Option A: Minimum of 30 credit hours, with Thesis
MUCE 601, Philosophies and Issues in Music Education
MUCE 608, Curriculum Development in the School Music Program
MUCE 699, Thesis/Graduate Research Project in Music Education
MUCE XXX, Music Education Elective
MUCE XXX, Music Education Elective
MUCH 611, Introduction to Graduate Studies
MUCH XXX, Music History/Literature Elective
MUCT XXX, Music Theory Elective
MUC XXX, Music Content Course (not Music Education)

Option B: Minimum of 30 credit hours, without Thesis
MUCE 601, Philosophies and Issues in Music Education
MUCE 608, Curriculum Development in the School Music Program
MUCE XXX, Music Education Elective
MUCE XXX, Music Education Elective
MUCH 611, Introduction to Graduate Studies
MUCH XXX, Music History/Literature Elective
MUCT XXX, Music Theory Elective
MUC XXX, Music Content Course (not Music Education)
Two free electives: 6 credit hours

The GRE Exam (or equivalent) is required for all teacher preparation program candidates who are seeking certification (for applicants seeking admission for Fall 2015 forward). All other graduate programs, including non-certification options, do not require this exam. More information on the GRE exam can be found by visiting http://www.gre.org. SUNY Potsdam’s code for sending score reports is 2545.

Uniqueness of Program

Making music is at the heart of every Crane degree program. Our philosophy is that all our students are first and foremost musicians. The Crane School of Music was founded in 1886 and was one of the first institutions in the country to have program dedicated to preparing specialists in teaching music in the public schools. Crane is proud to have many of the finest music educators, scholars and performers in the United States as members of the faculty, all working to make Crane a vital, innovative and exciting place.

Testimonials

“The Crane School of Music is a unique community. It provides a focused and serious environment to grow as an artist while remaining extremely supportive. It was an ideal place for me to develop musically while forging lifelong professional relationships.” —Christopher Still ’93

“Crane provides the full package for students by offering degree programs in just about every area of the music world. There are ample opportunities to perform weekly in a great atmosphere. Performing is fully supported by a wonderful staff of teachers. Crane really prepares you to be successful.” —Mark Sophia ’12

“The degree programs at Crane provide a full and rich education in music and the liberal arts. I’m convinced this balanced and thorough curriculum laid the groundwork for the success I’m now enjoying in my life and career.” —Richard Regan ’91

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• A minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 in the social science major.
• A letter of intent written by the applicant expressing professional and educational goals as applied to the program.
• Submission of three letters of recommendation, using the required recommendation form.
• Résumé or curriculum vitae.

E-mail: [email protected] • Phone: 315-267-2165

Visit http://www.potsdam.edu/graduate to view the full application checklist and online application.

The Master of Science in Teaching Adolescence Education program in Social Studies is designed to meet the New York State Education Department’s regulations on Teacher Education, the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) standards, and the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS), along with Advisory Board recommendations and alumni feedback. This program is nationally recognized by the NCSS and leads to Initial Adolescence Education, Social Studies (Grade 7-12) with an extension for Middle Childhood Social Studies Education (Grade 5-6) certification. Program start date: Summer.

Required Program Courses
Minimum of 51 credit hours
(Prerequisite coursework may be required prior to, or concurrent with, program studies.)

GRED 556, Reading in the Middle/Secondary School ...............3 credits
GRED 557, Writing in the Middle/Secondary School ...............3 credits
GRED 590, Special Soc St Education Content Topic ................3 credits
GRED 600, Philosophical Foundations of Education ................3 credits
GRED 606, Adv Secondary Social Studies Education ...............3 credits
GRED 670, Social Studies Culminating Experience .................3 credits
GRED 681, Soc St Curr in Middle and Secondary School ..........3 credits
GRED 682, Research in Social Studies Education ....................3 credits
GRED 684, Social Studies Content Portfolio ............................1 credit
GRED 688, Soc St Instruction in Middle and Sec School ...........2 credits
GRED 689, Practicum in Middle/Sec Soc St Instruction ............4 credits
SPED 505, Introduction to Special Education .........................3 credits

HLTH 530, School Health (certification requirement) ..............3 credits

Technology Elective: 3 credit hours

Additional Elective: 3 credit hours

GRED 676, Student Teaching Seminar ................................2 credits
GRED 694, Student Teaching in Mid/Jr High School (7-9) ........6 credits
GRED 697, Student Teaching in Sr High School (10-12) ..........6 credits

Testimonial

“Coming out of my undergraduate program, I had a lot of experience with subject material but didn't have the first clue about teaching. Potsdam’s graduate program provided a great mix of theory and practice; the 100 hour practicum, as well as graduate level theory and research courses, allows you to try to mix some of the things you've learned into your curriculum as you work in the classrooms. A personal highlight for me was the degree of interest that the staff and faculty took in making sure the students got the most out of their education.” —Colin French

The GRE Exam (or equivalent, such as the MAT) is required for all teacher preparation program candidates who are seeking certification (for applicants seeking admission for Fall 2015 forward). All other graduate programs, including non-certification options, do not require this exam. More information on the GRE exam can be found by visiting http://www.gre.org. SUNY Potsdam’s code for sending score reports is 2545.

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The Master of Education (M.Ed) in Curriculum and Instruction program at The University of Tampa has a reputable, long-standing relationship with Tampa Bay area school districts and administrators. The program enhances the teaching and leadership skills of currently certified teachers and can be completed in as little as 13 months. Faculty members, many of whom have worked as teachers, hold doctorate degrees in education. Their powerful combination of academic expertise and firsthand knowledge was used in the development of the M.Ed. curriculum.

Visit the website http://www.ut.edu/med/

Who enrolls in this program?

Students who enroll in the M.Ed. program wish to become better educators and recognized leaders. Candidates are teachers currently working in K–12 classrooms or those who are taking a break from the classroom but have a strong background in education. M.Ed. candidates must have an undergraduate degree in education or hold a professional teaching certificate. These educators come to UT with a background in a wide array of specializations.

What is the structure of the M.Ed. program?

The M.Ed. emphasizes curriculum theory, pedagogy and innovation in education, educational advocacy, social dimensions of learning, instructional design, leadership and research, which can be applied in the teacher’s current field of work or toward advanced studies in education. Coursework is designed with the working education professional in mind and takes advantage of slower periods, such as summer months. Candidates in the M.Ed. program may be required to complete a thesis, special project or oral examination as a culminating experience.

What courses are offered?

A comprehensive list can be found in the course catalog. A small sampling of the courses in the M.Ed. program includes:

- Human Development and Inclusive Learning Environments
- Curriculum Theory
- Pedagogy and Innovation in Education
- Research in Education
- Technology for Education and Leadership
- Social Advocacy, School Reform and Leadership in Education
- Philosophy and Epistemology
- Cross Cultural Diversity

What are the benefits of the M.Ed. program?

- Advanced professional coursework supports classroom teaching and advancement in the school system
- Opportunities for mentoring and scholarly collaboration with university faculty
- Potential for teaching undergraduate classes at universities and community colleges
- Preparation for candidates seeking to pursue doctoral studies and advanced research
- Provides deeper understanding of human development and learning
- Offers candidates a new professional network within a class of their peers

Find out how to apply here - http://www.ut.edu/apply

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• A letter of intent written by the applicant expressing professional and educational goals as applied to the program.
• Submission of three letters of recommendation, using the required recommendation form.
• Résumé or curriculum vitae.

E-mail: [email protected] • Phone: 315-267-2165

Visit http://www.potsdam.edu/graduate to view the full application checklist and online application.

The Master of Science for Teachers in Childhood Education has been designed to meet certification regulations of the New York State Education Department, as well as the standards of the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). This program is also nationally recognized by the Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) and leads to Initial/Professional Childhood certification (Grades 1-6). Program start dates: Summer, Fall, Spring; Program also available at Watertown JCC campus.

Required Program Courses
Minimum of 47 credit hours
(Prerequisite coursework may be required prior to, or concurrent with, program studies.)

GRED 530, Classroom Management and Discipline ................3 credits
GRED 558, Literacy I: Methods (Childhood) .........................3 credits
GRED 559, Literacy II: Methods (Childhood) ........................3 credits
GRED 565, Elementary Mathematics: Content and Methods ......3 credits
GRED 566, Elementary Science: Content and Methods .............3 credits
GRED 567, Elementary Social Studies: Content and Methods .....3 credits
GRED 607, Foundations of Education (B-6) .........................3 credits
GRED 664, Practicum in Childhood Education .....................3 credits

Education Elective: 3 credit hours

GRED 613, Teaching Internship, Grades 1–3 ........................6 credits
GRED 669, Professional Development Performance Portfolio ......3 credits
GRED 676, Student Teaching Seminar ................................2 credits
GRED 696, Teaching Internship, Grades 4–6 ........................6 credits

GRED 677 is required if the candidate’s undergraduate work does not include a course in developmental, adolescent, or educational psychology. This course may count as the education elective, with permission of the advisor.

The GRE Exam (or equivalent) is required for all teacher preparation program candidates who are seeking certification (for applicants seeking admission for Fall 2015 forward). All other graduate programs, including non-certification options, do not require this exam. More information on the GRE exam can be found by visiting http://www.gre.org. SUNY Potsdam’s code for sending score reports is 2545.

Uniqueness of Program

The MST Childhood Education program is both NCATE accredited and nationally recognized by the ACEI. Candidates may complete most, but not all, of their degree requirements in the Watertown area if they choose. Also, Canadian students who complete this program and all New York State teacher certification requirements are eligible to apply to the Ontario College of Teachers for Ontario certification at the primary/ junior divisions. This program is intended for candidates who do not hold a teaching certificate and seek to earn certification in Childhood Education (Grades 1-6). Candidates may begin enrollment in the fall, spring, or summer terms.

Testimonial

“Potsdam’s graduate program afforded me great opportunities that allowed me to excel as a future educator and stand out among a crowded field of job seekers.” —John Liquori ’14

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Whether you are a globetrotter who is also passionate about education or a certified teacher who wants to expand your professional repertoire, the Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) graduate program at Binghamton University can help meet your needs. The TESOL program offers the Master of Science in Education (MSEd) and the Master of Arts (MA) degrees. The MA enables graduates to teach in English as a Second Language (ESL) programs on college campuses or in other English programs across the globe. This track is also suitable for international students who wish to be involved in English education around the world, such as ESL programs in higher education or other intensive English programs. The MSEd is designed for those who are already certified looking to teach English Language Learners (ELL) in K-12 settings.

Students will be immersed in multi-layered theoretical and practical approaches to teaching English as a second language, from language acquisition and literacy development to effective ESL pedagogies and history about ELLs. Students taking classes full-time will complete this program in just three semesters, with their studies culminating in either a capstone project or master’s thesis.

Professional Development

Students are assigned a faculty advisor who will offer guidance throughout their academic career. Our lively curriculum reflects the rapidly changing needs of the national population by including language teaching in global perspectives, technology-enhanced language teaching, and courses embedded in field experience.

In addition to regular coursework, fieldwork and student teaching are important components of the program. The program boasts strong content speciality as well as diverse student and faculty backgrounds. Faculty advisors and office staff are eager to assist students in tailoring their courses of study and field placements. Students are encouraged to take advantage of a well-established network of alumni and professional connections that will help with field visits and placements. There are urban, suburban and rural schools with student teaching opportunities in close proximity.

After You Graduate

The completion of the MA degree allows graduates to work in ESL programs on college campuses, while earning the MSEd and meeting other requirements leads to New York State certification as a TESOL teacher. Employment opportunities for teachers have improved significantly over the last few years. Alumni of our programs in education teach at numerous schools regionally and around the country. Due to strict licensure rules, a New York State teaching license is well respected across the nation. Typically, graduates of the programs easily find employment as teachers in other states.

All applicants must submit the following:

- Online graduate degree application and application fee
- Transcripts from each college/university which you have attended
- Two letters of recommendation (the GSE will accept additional letters of recommendation)
- Personal statement of 500 words on career goals (Please see the GSE Admissions website for additional information about the personal statement)
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (max. 2 pages)
- Official GRE scores for pre-service applicants
- If you are a certified teacher, a copy of your initial teacher certification in Early Childhood Education (birth–grade 2), Literacy or Special Education, Childhood Education (grades 1–6) and/or Adolescence Education (grades 7–12) in one of the content areas: English, mathematics, sciences, social studies or foreign languages)
- Proof of successful completion of at least 12 semester hours or the equivalent of study of a language other than English

And, for international applicants:
- International Student Financial Statement form
- Official bank statement/proof of support
- Official TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic scores

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The Department of Elementary and Special Education offers the Master of Education degree with a major in Special Education and concentrations in Mildly/Moderately Disabled Students, Preschool Disabled Students, and Severely/Profoundly Disabled Students.

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The Department of Elementary and Special Education offers the Master of Education degree with a major in Special Education and concentrations in Mildly/Moderately Disabled Students, Preschool Disabled Students, and Severely/Profoundly Disabled Students.

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West Chester University's Special Education Department offers a fully online program leading to the Master of Education in Special Education. The program is open to anyone with a Bachelor's degree from an accredited 4 year degree granting institution with a final GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Overview

The prime mission of the master of education program in Special Education is to prepare teachers advanced-level teachers who can synthesize and apply self-awareness and general knowledge of:
-Foundations of the study of disability,
-The learner with disabilities,
-Appropriate content for the learner with disabilities, and
-Effective classroom pedagogy.

We believe this synthesis encourages reflection on the art of teaching and results in a professional who is able to make sound, ethical educational decisions regarding curriculum and instructional strategies for students with disabilities. In addition, high standards of scholarship and the application of research, as well as professionalism, collaboration, and knowledge of current trends in the field, are essential for all teachers of special education.

Highlights

-West Chester University's long standing quality and expertise in the field of special education
-Interdisciplinary program includes Special Education, Secondary and Professional Education, and Communicative Disorders
-National Accreditation
-Courses may be applied to PA teaching certification
-Cohort model designed to increase student-to-student collaboration and provide social support for online learners
-Action research enables students to apply what they have learned to a current research problem in the field

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• A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 in the major.
• A letter of intent written by the applicant expressing professional and educational goals as applied to the program.
• Submission of three letters of recommendation, using the required recommendation form.
• Résumé or curriculum vitae.

E-mail: [email protected] • Phone: 315-267-2165

Visit http://www.potsdam.edu/graduate to view the full application checklist and online application.

The Master of Science in Teaching Adolescence Education program in English is designed to meet the teacher education regulations of the New York State Education Department, the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) stan- dards, the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), as well as Advisory Board recommendations and alumni feedback. The program leads to Initial/Professional Adolescence Education, English (Grades 7-12) certification. This program is nationally recognized by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE). Program start date: Summer.

Required Program Courses
Minimum of 47 credit hours
(Prerequisite coursework may be required prior to, or concurrent with, program studies.)

GRED 549, Adol Lit and Teaching of Reading/Literacy .............3 credits
GRED 550, Intro to Teaching ELA, Grades 7-12 ....................3 credits
GRED 555, Classroom Mgmt/Leadership, Middle/Sec Schools .....3 credits
GRED 582, Teaching Writing/Lang/Comm, Grades 7-12 ..........3 credits
GRED 584, Teaching Literature and Literacy, Grades 7-12 ........3 credits
GRED 588, Practicum I, Teaching ELA in Sec Schools..............2 credits
GRED 589, Practicum II, Teaching ELA in Sec Schools ............2 credits
GRED 600, Philosophical Foundations of Education ................3 credits
GRED 671, Dev Prof Portfolio: Culminating Experience ...........3 credits
GRED 677, Development and Learning in Adolescence .............3 credits
SPED 505, Introduction to Special Education .........................3 credits

HLTH 530, School Health (certification requirement) ..............3 credits

Education elective ........................................................3 credits

GRED 676, Student Teaching Seminar ................................2 credits
GRED 692, Student Teaching in Jr High School (7-9) ..............6 credits
GRED 697, Student Teaching in Sr High School (10-12) ..........6 credits

GRED 677 is required if the candidate’s undergraduate work does not include a course in developmental, adolescent, or educational psychology. If the psychology requirement is fulfilled through un- dergraduate course work, a second education elective shall be taken.

Full or conditional admission is available.

Testimonial

“I made the tough decision to apply for graduate school after a fruitful career in social work because I desperately needed a change. After this epiphany, I resigned from my position, and soon after applied to the MST program at SUNY Potsdam. As it turned out, it was a decision that not only changed my life, but altered the course of my family’s as well. The MST program prepared me for teaching in ways that I couldn't have imagined, and continues to mold me into the teacher I am well on my way to becoming.” —Johnny Dundon

The GRE Exam (or equivalent) is required for all teacher preparation program candidates who are seeking certification (for applicants seeking admission for Fall 2015 forward). All other graduate programs, including non-certification options, do not require this exam. More information on the GRE exam can be found by visiting http://www.gre.org. SUNY Potsdam’s code for sending score reports is 2545.

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The focus of the program is on preparing graduate students to work as educators, practitioners and policy-makers in student affairs, student services and higher education. The program will help students comprehend, analyze and meet the changing needs and wants of the current college student. Students will learn how to use interpersonal skills and strategic interventions, especially as they relate to issues of equity and access, which lead to success for ALL students. Employing an Action Research Methodology, graduates of this program will be prepared to analyze current higher education practices and policies and create programs, services and interventions that generate positive impact and student success. Students will have an opportunity to complete two internships in the field.

The program is aligned with the CAS (Council on the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education) Standards and the ACPA/NASPA Professional Competencies.

Course Structure and Content

The program is a 42-credit program that can be completed in 2 years. Students have the option of earning a certificate in either Sustainability or Educational Technology as part of the HEPSA Program.

Students will have two internship classes and opportunities totaling 500 hours in the field. Internship 1 will focus on developing the interpersonal, listening and referral skills necessary for work in the field of higher education and student affairs. Internship 2 will focus on developing an understanding of strategic planning and institutional structure as well as planning for and creating policy changes.

All students in their first semester will take a course on Critical Action Research where they will have an opportunity to pose a question about student affairs/higher education that they would like to understand. Throughout their program they will answer that question through their course work. The capstone project will result in a publishable thesis answering that question. This process will help to position students as experts on their topic of interest as they move in to a professional or new role.

Modules include:

• The Sustainable Campus
• Issues of Power and Privilege in Higher Education Policy and Student Affairs
• Applications and Implications of Technology in Student Affairs
• Program Evaluation and Assessment
• Theories of College Student Identity Development
• Law, Policy and Equity in Higher Education and Student Affairs
• Resource Management in Student Affairs and Higher Education
• Transformative Leadership in Higher Education and Student Affairs

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• A letter of intent written by the applicant, discussing why you wish to develop your knowledge and skills in the field of special education, in addition to the personal attributes you possess that will help you meet the challenges of the graduate program.
• Submission of three letters of recommendation, using the required recommendation form.
• Résumé or curriculum vitae.
• Submission of a teaching certificate, indicating preparation in general education curriculum at the level of the program for which application is being made.
• Certain coursework may be required as a component to individual admission, as determined at the time of application.

E-mail: [email protected] • Phone: 315-267-2165

Visit http://www.potsdam.edu/graduate to view the full application checklist and online application.

The Master of Science in Education in Special Education is recognized by the Council for Exceptional Children and accredited by NCATE. All programs are registered with the New York State Education Department and lead to initial certification in one of the following three areas: Early Childhood (Birth-Grade 2), Childhood (Grade 1-6), or Adolescent (Grade 7-12). Please note that students may also receive certification at both the Early Childhood and Childhood levels. Program start date: Fall.

Required Program Courses
Minimum of 36 credit hours

SPED 601, Characteristics of Learners with Mild/Moderate Disabilities
SPED 607, Educational Research: Critical Issues in Special Education
SPED 609, Field Experience I
SPED 612, Technology in Special Education
SPED 637, Diagnosis and Assessment of Educational Disabilities
SPED 638, Teaching Reading for Students with Special Needs
SPED 640, Behavior Management for the Special Educator
SPED 649, Field Experience II
SPED 650, Collaborative Consultation with Professionals and Parents
SPED 669, Practicum
SPED 670, Culminating Experience

Program Specific Course Requirements: 6 credit hours

Early Childhood (Birth – Grade 2):
SPED 648, Strategies for Early Childhood Special Education
Elective Course selected with advisor approval

Childhood (Grades 1–6):
SPED 646, Strategies for Teaching Elementary Students with Disabilities
Elective Course selected with advisor approval

Adolescent (Grades 7–12):
SPED 646, Strategies for Teaching Elementary Students with Learning / Behavioral Disabilities
SPED 647, Strategies for Teaching Secondary Students with Disabilities

The GRE Exam (or equivalent) is required for all teacher preparation program candidates who are seeking certification (for applicants seeking admission for Fall 2015 forward). All other graduate programs, including non-certification options, do not require this exam. More information on the GRE exam can be found by visiting http://www.gre.org. SUNY Potsdam’s code for sending score reports is 2545.

Uniqueness of Program

Students enrolled in this selective program complete their course- work with the same peer cohort, affording them a unique opportunity to build relationships and collaborate with fellow students throughout the program. Small class sizes and a dedicated faculty fosters positive relationships. Students also have the opportunity to gain direct hands-on field experiences with students with disabilities under the mentorship of the classroom teacher and college supervisor. Part-time study is available.

Testimonials

“The thing I valued the most about the program was how the faculty treated us all like individuals. They knew us on a per- sonal level and worked to assist us all in gaining the knowledge and skills we need to work with the population of students we intended to teach. I felt that my opinions were respected. My personal experiences were valued and welcomed by the faculty to help our diverse group truly understand that we all had very different backgrounds and could learn so much from each other.”

“My favorite thing about the program was the small classes and the personal attention that I got in regards to my academics. Whenever I needed help, there was always someone there willing to help. I also really enjoyed how much technology is stressed in the program.”

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