Master of Science in Education in Elementary Education - Emphasis in Middle Level Education

The graduate program in elementary education advances scholarly preparation by providing quality teaching and promoting excellence in research/creative activity in order for graduate students to exemplify best teaching practices for children from birth through age fourteen. The graduate curriculum encompasses comprehensive content knowledge and promotes the use of critical thinking and problem solving to cultivate teacher-researchers who are empowered to serve as leaders in the profession. Faculty members challenge students to bridge the gap between theory and practice as they develop the skills required for ethical and effective collaboration and communication within the local school community and a culturally diverse, technologically advanced global environment. The middle level area meets the six hours established by the state of Illinois for an endorsement in middle level education. In addition, three courses specifically dedicated to teaching middle-level students and additional electives complete the area of emphasis.