Creative Teaching and Learning
Admission to Candidacy
Students must apply for admission to candidacy during the semester in which they expect to complete their 12th credit toward the master’s. Applicants for candidacy will be evaluated in terms of grades and suitability for work with gifted children. Students not admitted to candidacy will be asked to withdraw from the program. At least one semester as a degree candidate is required prior to application for graduation.
Full-time students are permitted to register for 9 credits each semester. Students who are currently teaching or otherwise employed full time are limited to a maximum of 6 credits each semester. Five (5) years from the date of matriculation are allowed for the completion of the degree.
Master of Science Degree Requirements
Thirty-six appropriate credits of graduate study, including a practicum, oral presentation and an overall average of B (3.0), are required for the Master’s of Science in Education degree in Creative Teaching and Learning.
Students will be admitted to the Practicum upon demonstration of prerequisite competencies and personal suitability for field placement, and after the completion of all specialization courses.
Advanced Certificate in Creative Teaching & Learning Leading
to
Extension in Gifted Education–18 Credits
The Master’s Degree Program in Creative Teaching and Learning
is for teachers
who already possess an Initial Teaching Certificate at any level
and desire to earn a
Professional Certificate at that level. The program is designed
to develop teacher expertise
in curriculum and instruction, talent development, and innovative
program and
product design. This master’s degree program also leads to
a New York State extension
in gifted education and provides teachers with leadership skills
in individualizing and
differentiating instruction within the context of a strength-based
approach to education.
A major goal of the program is to transform teachers from mere consumers and providers of existing knowledge to active, innovative producers of new ideas. This goal is accomplished by recognizing and nurturing the unique interests, strengths, teaching styles, and talents each teacher brings to the educational setting. Teachers who are aware of their own talents and take the time to develop them are more likely to recognize and nurture them in their colleagues and students. This vision of education will enable teachers to assume leadership roles in creating enriched teaching and learning environments.