Childhood and TESOL MST

 The Master of Science for Teachers (MST) in Childhood Education and TESOL program prepares candidates to teach children in grades 1–6, in addition to becoming certified to teach English to Speakers of Other Languages. Students gain knowledge to successfully combine the teaching of both general education and specialized study of language development as well as differentiated instruction methods to English language learners.

Program Overview

Every MST candidate enrolled in our program is challenged to reflect on his or her prior notions about schools, classrooms, teaching, and learning. Candidates learn the theories, strategies, and methods for teaching English Learners, apply sociolinguistic knowledge contexts and language development to instruction and experience a range of fieldwork experiences under the guidance of supervisors, faculty and mentor-teachers. Study abroad courses can be substituted for TESOL courses or core requirements with approval.

Field Experience

Students will complete 100 hours of fieldwork that follows a clinically-rich model, integrated with intensive coursework, in collaboration with partner schools.  Student teaching will be completed in childhood classrooms, as well as practicum experience in TESOL.

Certification and Career Outcomes

Graduates who pass the New York State Certification Exams will become certified to teach Childhood grades 1-6 and TESOL Education in grades K-12. Career options include Childhood teachers who provide support to English Language Learners (ELL) in dual language programs, or as English as a New Language (ENL) teachers.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution (official transcripts documenting degree must be submitted).
• Twelve (12) credits of study in a language other than English or equivalent. Missing credits can be taken after admissions.
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or equivalent.
• GRE Exam
• Submission and review of official transcripts from ALL institutions attended.
• Completion of the application process, including a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and, in some cases, an admission interview.