Mount Saint Mary College offers the master of science in
education in two middle school extension programs: middle school
extension in content area (grades 7-9) and middle school extension
program in content area (grades 5-6).
These programs focus on developing skills and expertise required
to effectively teach today’s young adolescents. Theoretical
foundations related to adolescent development and research on
effective teaching strategies serve as a basis for preparing
teachers to design instruction that maximizes successful outcomes
as applied to middle school learning experiences. Standards based
planning and instruction is emphasized in the following content
areas: biology, chemistry, physics, English, mathematics, social
studies and Spanish.
Middle school Extension in Content Areas (grades 5-6)
This program is designed for teachers who hold a valid New York
State teaching certificate in secondary/adolescent education (7-12)
and have completed a major of at least 30 credits in the subject
for which the extension is sought. The aim of the program is to
prepare 7-12 educators to effectively teach in grades 5-6.
The program includes the study of early adolescent development
and instructional approaches of particular importance to the middle
grades. Courses are designed to strengthen the certified teachers’
ability to focus on the pedagogical and developmental needs of
pupils across grades 5-12.
Upon successful completion of the program, candidates will be
eligible for New York State middle school extension (grades 5-6). A
minimum of 33 credits is required for the master of science in
education degree in Grades 5-6 Content Area Extension.
Middle School Extension in Content Areas (grades 7-9)
This program is designed for teachers who hold a valid New York
State teaching certificate in elementary/childhood education and
who have completed a major of at least 30 credits in the subject
for which the extension is sought. The aim of the program is to
prepare elementary educators to effectively teach in grades 7-
9.
The program includes the study of early adolescent development
and instructional approaches of particular importance to the middle
grades. Courses are designed to strengthen the certified teachers’
ability to meet the needs of all pupils and to increase a
repertoire of pedagogical tools applicable across grades 1-9.
Upon successful completion of the program, candidates will be
eligible for New York State certification in middle childhood
extension in grades 7-9. In addition, candidates must pass the New
York State Teacher Examination in the specific content subject
area. A minimum of 33 credits is required for the master of science
in education degree in gades 7-9 content area extension.
For more information about the master of science in education
program, including admission requirements, application procedures
and courses, please go to the MSMC Graduate
Catalog.
You can reach the office of the graduate program coordinator for
teacher education at 845-569-3525.