Program Description

The focus of the master’s degree programs in elementary education is on the advanced professional preparation of the classroom teacher. Courses, independent study, and practicum experiences are available in many of the curriculum areas. Goals of the program are to encourage teachers to work more intensely with individuals, be more effective as classroom

Licensed teachers with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education may pursue either the Master of Education or the Master of Science. Non-licensed individuals who have earned a bachelor’s degree in a field of study other than education may only pursue the Master of Science.

Admission Requirements

1. Teacher Licensure for the M.Ed.
   or
2. Teacher Licensure or a baccalaureate degree for the M.S.

Refer to the Admissions section of the Graduate catalog for additional information on admission requirements and application procedures.

Degree Requirements

A detailed description of the M.Ed. and M.S. degrees may be found in the Degree Requirements section. Scholarly tool requirements are described in the Education departmental section.

Master of Education

Licensed persons are eligible for this degree. The major portion of the program includes coursework that addresses practical aspects of teaching at the elementary school level—literacy development, mathematics, science, social studies, curriculum development, and working with families. Available courses focus on the relationship between theories of child development and educational practices designed to foster that development. Practicum experiences can be arranged for those students desiring direct involvement with children. The program culminates in a final paper, project, or thesis.

Master of Science

This degree is available in two tracks. Track I, either thesis or non-thesis, is open to licensed or non-licensed persons who wish to follow a research oriented program of study. Track I requires a minimum of five credits of scholarly tool coursework and allows a maximum two credits of readings.

Track II, available only in the non-thesis option, provides opportunity for non-licensed persons to study Elementary Education at the graduate level. Track II requires a minimum of six credits of coursework in Foundations of Education.