Education, Secondary Education Concentration, M.S.

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Master of Science in Education, Secondary Education Concentration

This program is designed to help career secondary classroom teachers upgrade their skills, become informed about new ideas in secondary teaching and prepare for curriculum leadership roles in public and private schools.

The graduate program builds upon teacher preparation in the Single Subject Credential Program. Whereas coursework in the credential program focuses on knowledge and skills necessary for a beginning secondary teacher, the graduate program will allow students to extend their knowledge and deepen their skills in curriculum design, instructional and assessment strategies, integration of technology and reflection skills.

Online Graduate Program Features

The graduate programs in Secondary Education are delivered in two formats: 1) an online hybrid format, with 49 percent of courses delivered entirely via web-based instruction, and the other courses delivered partially via web-based instruction; 2) a 100 percent online format. The programs begin with a required one-unit prerequisite course.

The WASC-accredited online graduate program has been recognized by US News and World Report as among the best online graduate programs in the country.

Options for Culminating Experience

The options for candidates’ culminating experiences are the comprehensive examination, action research project, thesis, submission for National Board Certification, development of a comprehensive curriculum project or development of an article for publication.

Application Deadlines

Deadlines for completing the online application are July 1 for the fall semester and Nov. 15 for the spring semester (http://www2.calstate.edu/apply). Spring starts are not always available and are dependent upon student enrollment. Students should always check the graduate program website for the latest information regarding admissions deadlines.

Admission to Graduate Standing - Conditionally Classified

Students must meet the CSU requirements for admission to a master’s degree program. Please consult the Graduate Admissions section in this catalog for complete information.

Graduate Standing - Classified

Classified standing is granted after a study plan is developed in consultation with a faculty adviser and approved by the Associate Vice President, Academic Programs (or designee). Students must also meet the following admission requirements:

an approved major;
grade-point average of 3.0 on previous academic and related work;
proof of a current teaching credential;
current professional resume;
500-word statement of purpose outlining your interest in the Secondary Education Master’s Program (e.g., any areas of special interest or emphasis you plan to pursue as a graduate student, a brief description of your current teaching position or anything else that would facilitate an informed decision on your application); and
two or more letters of recommendation that address your aptitude for graduate study including your teaching skills as well as your academic preparation. Grade-point average deficiencies may be removed by a demonstration of competency in the graduate program.

Study Plan

(31 UNITS)

Prerequisite Course (1 unit)

EDSC 501 - Introduction to Graduate Studies (1)

Core Courses (15 units)

Concentration Courses (6 units)

Electives (6 units)

Chosen in consultation with the Graduate Program Adviser

Culminating Experience (3 units)

Additional Information

*Please contact the Secondary Education Department office for current registration information.