Master of Education in Theatre Education PK-12

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) in Theatre Education at Niagara University is a 39-credit hour program designed for individuals with extensive theatre experience seeking initial certification to teach theatre in grades Pre-K through 12 in New York state. The program combines core education courses with specialized theatre education courses, electives, and field experiences, preparing graduates for a range of careers in theatre education. The program is offered in a hybrid format with both online and face-to-face instruction.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) in Theatre Education is a 39-credit hour specialized program intended for individuals who have completed extensive study in the field of theater, and are not currently certified to teach. The pathway of this program also leads to initial certification in New York state for teaching theater in grades Pre-K through 12. The curriculum covers foundations of education, student assessment, and classroom management to aid in the development of evidence-based strategies and modifications necessary to enhance student learning. The program is cohort-based, which enhances the peer support candidates experience within their group while at Niagara University, in field experiences, student teaching and later as alumni. Class sizes are small, and therefore give each student individualized attention from their professors. Professors take a constructivist approach to education, which means they understand that each student comes with their own experiences and prior knowledge. Students pursuing the M.S. Ed in theatre education may receive certification in a second academic area if they have completed 30 hours in that academic area. General education course work can help fulfill this opportunity. Talk to your advisor when you apply to prepare for this option.

Outline:

The M.S.Ed. in Theatre Education program at Niagara University is structured as follows:

• Core Courses (18 credits):
• Foundations of Education
• Student Assessment
• Classroom Management
• Curriculum and Instruction in Theatre Education
• Seminar in Theatre Education
• Theatre Education Courses (15 credits):
• Theatre for Young Audiences
• Drama in Education
• Theatre Production for Educators
• Advanced Acting for Educators
• Directing for Educators
• Elective Courses (6 credits):
• Students may choose from a variety of elective courses in theatre, education, or other related fields.
The program is offered in a hybrid format, with a combination of online and face-to-face instruction. The online component of the program is delivered through Niagara University's learning management system, Canvas. The face-to-face component of the program is held on Niagara University's campus in Lewiston, NY.

Assessment:

Students in the M.S.Ed. in Theatre Education program are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Exams: Students will take exams in each of their courses.
• Projects: Students will complete projects in each of their courses.
• Presentations: Students will give presentations in each of their courses.
• Participation: Students will be assessed on their participation in class discussions and other activities.
• Portfolio: Students will develop a portfolio of their work throughout the program.

Teaching:

The M.S.Ed. in Theatre Education program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are committed to providing students with a high-quality education. The faculty members have a variety of specialties, including theatre education, drama in education, and theatre production. The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: Faculty members will deliver lectures on the various topics covered in the program.
• Discussions: Students will participate in discussions on the various topics covered in the program.
• Workshops: Students will participate in workshops on the various topics covered in the program.
• Field Experiences: Students will complete field experiences in theatre education settings.
• Student Teaching: Students will complete student teaching in theatre education settings.

Careers:

Graduates of the M.S.Ed. in Theatre Education program are prepared for a variety of careers in theatre education, including:

• Theatre Teacher: Graduates can teach theatre in grades Pre-K through 12 in public or private schools.
• Drama Coach: Graduates can coach drama clubs and teams in schools or community centers.
• Stage Manager: Graduates can work as stage managers for theatre productions.
• Technical Director: Graduates can work as technical directors for theatre productions.
• Theatre Administrator: Graduates can work as administrators for theatre companies or other arts organizations.