Program Overview

Introduction to the Adolescence Education Master's Program

The Master of Science for Teachers (M.S.T.) in Adolescence Education is a 42-credit graduate program leading to initial New York state certification for grades 7-12 in various subjects, including biology, chemistry, earth science, English, French, mathematics, physics, social studies, or Spanish. This program can be completed in three semesters as a full-time student.

Program Overview

The M.S.T. adolescence education program is designed to develop the knowledge, skills, and dispositions of a caring, competent, and confident teacher. The program focuses on the interrelationship between academic content, pedagogical application, continued learning, and the moral and political considerations of working with adolescents.

Unique Features of the Program

• The program offers 100% online classes, with fieldwork conducted in person.
• Students can earn their degree close to home and on their schedule.
• The program is accredited, and graduates are eligible for initial certification immediately upon graduation.
• After three years of teaching, graduates are eligible for professional certification.

Fieldwork and Guidance

The Office of Clinical Practice makes early field and student teaching placements for students, reducing stress and ensuring a smooth transition into the teaching profession. All fieldwork occurs in approved 7-12 school placements that match the teaching certification of pursuit and must be completed within New York state.

Career Opportunities

Professional opportunities for adolescence education majors are plentiful, with a shortage of teachers in most states, particularly in math, science, and foreign language classes at the middle and high school levels. Graduates can pursue careers in public schools in New York state, private schools across the United States, and states with New York certification reciprocity.

Program Requirements

The M.S.T. program requires 42 credits, including:

• EDR 514: Teaching Literacy and Social Justice for All Students (3 credits)
• EDR 524: Literacy Instruction in the Content Areas in Grades 7-12 (3 credits)
• EDS 510: Introduction to Special Education (3 credits)
• EDS 543: Inclusion and Collaboration (3 credits)
• EDT 594: Student Teaching (12 credits)
• EDU 580: Technology Foundations for Education (3 credits)
• EDU 589: Social Foundations (3 credits)
• EDU 5120: Adolescent Development for Education Professionals (3 credits)
• EDU 5130: Assessment in Education: Theories and Conceptual Frameworks (3 credits)
• EDU 5150: Pedagogical Methods and Curriculum I: Grades 7-12 (3 credits)
• EDU 5250: Curriculum Design and Pedagogical Methods II: Grades 7-12 (3 credits)

Additional Degree Requirements

• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher to enter and remain in the program.
• A grade of B or better in all required education courses.
• Minimum grade of C in all conditions courses.
• All education and conditions courses must be satisfactorily completed prior to student teaching.
• Students must demonstrate professional ethical behaviors and conduct themselves professionally at all times.

Clinical Experience

• Previous teaching experience cannot be substituted for early fieldwork or student teaching.
• Current teaching experience might be eligible for early fieldwork, but details must be confirmed with the department.
• Fieldwork is completed in person with actual students and teachers during the typical school day.
• Fieldwork must be completed in New York state and in the certification area of pursuit.

Admissions Requirements

Please visit the graduate admissions page for details on admissions requirements.

International Students

The Adolescence Education Master's program is designated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as an eligible degree for the STEM OPT work authorization extension available to F-1 students.

Professional Licensure Disclosure

The Adolescent Education (Grades 7-12), M.S.T. program at SUNY Plattsburgh is registered by the New York State Education Department and meets the educational requirements for licensure/certification in New York state. However, it is essential for individual candidates to contact the licensure/certification authority in the applicable U.S. state for guidance on requirements and application processes.

Additional Degrees in Teacher Education

SUNY Plattsburgh offers various degrees in teacher education, including:

• Bachelor's Degree: Childhood (Elementary) Education B.S.
• 5-Year Combined Bachelor's & Master's Programs: Adolescence Education Grades 712 B.A./M.S.T., Childhood & Special Education Grades 16 B.S./M.S.Ed.
• Master's Degrees: Childhood Education Grades 16 M.S.T., Special Education BirthGrade 6 or Grades 712 M.S.Ed.
• Online Certificate Programs: School Building Leader Certificate of Advanced Study, School District Leader Graduate Certificate, Special Education Advanced Certificate, Teacher Leadership Graduate Certificate.