Master's in Elementary Education

Program Overview

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The University of Saint Mary's Master's in Elementary Education program prepares graduates for teaching in diverse elementary classrooms. It combines rigorous coursework with hands-on experiences, leading to KS initial teacher licensure in just two years. The program emphasizes content mastery, pedagogical expertise, and a commitment to social justice, equipping graduates to be effective and reflective educators.

Program Outline

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Master's in Elementary Education - University of Saint Mary

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Degree Overview:

This fully accredited program, leading to KS initial teacher licensure, allows you to achieve your goals and become a licensed elementary teacher in just two years. It offers a high level of academic excellence with an accelerated pace, covering 37 credits in 18-24 months.

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Program Objectives:

• Prepare graduates for the challenges and rewards of teaching in diverse elementary classrooms.
• Equip graduates with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions required for effective teaching, including content mastery, pedagogical expertise, and a commitment to social justice.
• Develop graduates who are reflective practitioners, lifelong learners, and leaders in the field of education.

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Program Description:

• The program combines rigorous coursework with hands-on experiences in local schools.
• Eight-week accelerated courses with two courses per term.
• Each course meets one night per week.
• Semester-long placements in local schools.
• 13-week full-time student teaching experience during the final semester.

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Outline:

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Year 1

• Summer 1
• ED 748 - Psychological Foundations of Education (3 credits)
• ED 738 - Instructional Technology (2 credits)
• Summer 2
• Optional course

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Fall 1

• ED 720 - Curriculum Design and Assessment (3 credits)

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Fall 2

• ED 747 - Teaching Social Studies and Aesthetics in Diverse Settings (3 credits)

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Spring 1

• ED 744 - Methods for Diverse Learners (3 credits)

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Spring 2

• ED 754 - Classroom Management and Student Motivation (3 credits)

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Year 2

• Summer 1
• ED 749 - Teaching Math in Elementary Schools (3 credits)
• Optional course
• Summer 2
• Off

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Fall 1

• ED 753 - Integrated Reading and Language Arts Methods (3 credits)

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Fall 2

• ED 755 - Reading Practicum (1 credit)

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Spring 1

• ED 746 - Teaching Science and Health in Elementary Schools (3 credits)

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Spring 2

• ED 765 - Advanced Practicum (1 credit)

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Final Semester (Fall)

• ED 767 - Elementary Student Teaching (8 credits)
• ED 766 - Professional Collaborations (1 credit)

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Assessment:

• Ongoing formative assessments throughout coursework.
• Summative assessments at the end of each course, including written assignments, presentations, and exams.
• Comprehensive performance-based assessments during student teaching.

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Teaching:

• Experienced faculty with expertise in elementary education.
• Use of evidence-based instructional practices.
• Emphasis on active learning and collaboration.
• Integration of technology into the curriculum.

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Careers:

• Graduates are prepared for a variety of careers in elementary education, including:
• Elementary school teacher
• Reading specialist
• Special education teacher
• Educational administrator
• Curriculum developer
• Educational researcher

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Other:

• The program is offered online and in-person at the University of Saint Mary Overland Park Campus.
• Classes start in January, March, and August.
• Tuition is $410 per credit hour.
• Scholarships and financial aid are available.

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Faculty:

• Cheryl Reding, Ph.D. - Associate Professor, Unit Head of Education, Division Chair of Social and Behavioral Sciences
• Tamara George, Ed.D.
• Assistant Professor of Education
• Darrel Stufflebeam, EdD - Assistant Professor of Education

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Accreditation:

• Accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

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Contact:

• Joe Perez, Admissions Counselor - joe.perez@stmary.edu - 913-319-3003