Areas of Specialization
The following areas of specialization are available for students pursuing a Master of Science in Education with a major in Elementary Education.
Early Childhood Education
The goal of the early childhood education area of specialization is to provide students with opportunities to expand their knowledge, skills and understanding of the growth and development of the young child. Students are encouraged and supported in their search for new information about their particular interests and needs. Our mission is to help our students develop as learners, teachers, leaders, and “experts” in the field of early childhood education.
Language and Literature
The language and literature area of specialization is designed to extend students’ knowledge, skills and understanding of literature and language arts in the elementary grades. This area focuses on major theories, current research, and practical classroom application of strategies for supporting the development of oral and written language with children at the emergent through proficient levels of speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
Mathematics
The mathematics area of specialization is intended to give insight into the K-8 school mathematics curriculum. Several of the courses address the content of mathematic; others place special emphasis on the teaching of mathematics. Nearing the completion of their degree, students develop and conduct an investigative project in math education.
Multidisciplinary Studies
The multidisciplinary area of specialization offers students a balanced program of courses in major subject areas of the elementary school curriculum. Students take courses from at least three content areas: language and literature, mathematics, science, and social studies. The courses in this area of specialization are available online.
Science
The science area of specialization provides an opportunity for elementary middle school teachers to increase their knowledge, skills, and instructional competencies in science. Science and science education courses may be selected to complement the student’s existing background in science or, together with electives, provide special expertise in a number of science content areas, science curriculum, and assessment.
Social Studies
The social studies area of specialization focuses on the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for effective teaching of social studies in the elementary and middle school grades. Courses stress specialized content, as well as instructional and curriculum aspects of the total social studies program.