Elementary Education Specialization, M.Ed.

Objectives

Upon completion of the graduate M.Ed., with specialization in Elementary Education, the candidate should be able to:

1. Demonstrate a depth and breadth of general knowledge in the field of Elementary Education.
2. Skillfully articulate knowledge of K‐6 learning communities.
3. Demonstrate effective communication skills that can be utilized when interacting with
    students, colleagues, administrators, and families.
4. Design, implement, and assess effective instruction, with particular emphasis on integrated
    curriculum, inquiry and active learning strategies.
5. Utilize assessment/evaluation to inform teaching and enhance learning.
6. Establish a classroom environment sensitive to the cultural and linguistic needs of all students.
7. Use technology to enhance the academic achievement of elementary students.
8. Demonstrate effective leadership within the school environment.
9. Demonstrate ability to use reflection, problem solving and critical thinking in the teaching and learning process.
 

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the specialization in elementary education program are required to hold, or are qualified to hold, a North Carolina Class “A” teaching license in early childhood education and/or elementary education. Applicants seeking admission to the M.Ed. with specialization in Elementary Education graduate program are required to submit the following to the Graduate School:

1. An application for graduate admission.
2. A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university completed before graduate study begins.
3. Official copies of transcripts of all college work (undergraduate and graduate)
4. GPA of “B” (3.0) or better recommended in undergraduate work
5. Three professional recommendations
6. 2-3 page typed letter of interest that includes a description of the applicant’s professional goals, educational interests in pursuing graduate study, and philosophy of teaching.
7. Application and supplemental documents must be submitted by the published deadline
   
   Admissions decisions are based upon several factors and where other indicators of success warrant, individuals who fall below the established criteria in one of the areas may be considered for admission.
    

Degree Requirements

The 33-credit-hour program leading to the Master of Education degree (M.Ed.) with specialization in elementary education provides advanced professional study for individuals who hold, or are qualified to hold, a North Carolina Class “A” teaching license in early childhood education and/or elementary education.

• Professional Core – Enhance knowledge and expertise in areas of research, curriculum, and diversity.
• Advanced Study of Content – Focused study of theory and pedagogy in the areas of Science, Math, Social Studies, Language Arts, and Arts Integration.
• Electives – Intensive exploration of a particular area of interest (e.g., Critical Literacy, Informal Science, Technology and New Media Pedagogy) that leads to a deeper understanding of contemporary topics in elementary education.