Print VersionAcademic Departments
The School of Education prepares educators to become expert practitioners, leaders, and change agents in K-12 settings. Through innovative research-based graduate level programs, use of best practices, and extensive partnerships with school districts, the School of Education leads and supports initiatives that improve educational outcomes for children. In partnership with regional school districts, the school has developed innovative programs-many of which serve as national models-to support the recruitment, preparation, and retention of teachers, principals, and other educational leaders.
Department of Teacher Preparation
The Department of Teacher Preparation prepares recent college graduates and career changers to become classroom teachers. A research-based curriculum and faculty mentoring prepare future educators for success in the classroom. Students can choose from among three concentrations: Elementary Education; a variety of subject areas in Secondary Education; and English for Speakers of Other Languages.
In order to address the career and personal needs of students, flexible program formats provide alternative options for pursuing the Master of Arts in Teaching degree:
- FlexMAT - designed for working professionals transitioning into teaching
- SIMAT - a full-time, one-year immersion program
- ProMAT - two- to three-year partnership program with a specific school district to address teacher shortages in critical needs areas. ProMAT students are paid by the school districts while they complete their requirements.
- AMAT - provides opportunities for qualified undergraduate students to begin their master's degree and teacher certification following their junior year
Department of Teacher Development and Leadership
The Department of Teacher Development and Leadership supports the continued growth and professional development of teachers, administrators, and other school personnel at various stages of their careers. Through specialized master's degrees, graduate certificates, and a doctoral degree program, educators are prepared for leadership positions and research roles in areas such as school administration and supervision, reading, technology, gifted education, and data-driven decision making. Many of the department's programs are offered through partnerships with local school districts.
Department of Special Education
The Department of Special Education offers graduate degree and certificate programs for individuals interested in starting careers as special educators, as well as advanced programs for experienced special educators. The Master of Science in Special Education degree prepares individuals to begin careers in special education in their choice of three areas: early childhood, mild to moderate disabilities, or severe disabilities. Practicing special educators can enhance their knowledge and ability to improve academic performance for children with special needs through advanced degree and certificate program options.
Department of Counseling and Human Services
The Department of Counseling and Human Services offers options for individuals planning to pursue counseling careers in school and clinical community settings. For practicing counselors and human service personnel wanting to advance their skills, graduate certificates and a certificate of advanced graduate study (CAGS) are available. The department also sponsors a summer seminar series for practitioners that attracts nationally recognized speakers who address the latest research and trends influencing the profession.
The Department of Interdisciplinary Studies in Education (DISE)
The Department of Interdisciplinary Studies in Education (DISE) draws upon interdisciplinary research and academic programs to address needs in PK-12 education, with a particular emphasis on urban and urbanizing schools. Initiatives include both those that enhance the content knowledge of educators, and those that apply current research and development activities to the improvement of student achievement and enhanced school performance. The department offers an individualized master's study program in an area not covered by other degree programs. In consultation with an adviser, students create a professional development plan that reflects their professional goals.Upon completion of the program, students earn a Master of Science in Educational Studies. Current Interdisciplinary graduate certificates include Adult Learning, Earth/Space Science, Mind, Brain, and Teaching, and Urban Education.
Partnership initiatives include Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education and the Urban Leadership Development Academy; creating supportive and safe learning environments; connecting research in neurosciences with educational practices; and exploring the impact of health issues on school learning.
