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Mimi Rosenberg, Director: 212-875-4544
Master of Science in Education: 36 credits
Master of Education: 36 credits
This 36-credit program in Middle School Special Education is designed for individuals who currently hold initial or provisional New York State certification in general education at the Middle School level. Graduates of this master's program are prepared to earn initial certification in working with children with disabilities in grades 5 through 9.
You will learn how to recognize a range of learning problems that children face, and you will learn how to help children work within the full range of their abilities. The program provides teachers and prospective teachers with preparation to identify and address a range of special needs. Based on your observations, you will then be able to tailor your teaching approach to the needs of each student.
You will learn about the interrelationship of the academic, intellectual, emotional, physical and social development of early adolescents. You will use your growing understanding of developmental issues to inform your work in curriculum across all subject areas, as well as in your area of specialization. You will learn classroom management techniques that will allow you reach and engage all learners, while developing positive relationships with your students.
Through your courses and your work with children you will gain a foundation for working with a wide range of children, for identifying underlying issues that keep some children from functioning fully, and for helping all children reach their potential.
Certification in Education
When you graduate, you will be eligible for New York State initial certification in Middle Childhood Special Education, prepared to work with a wide range of learners in grades 5 through 9. The program leads to professional certification for those who complete all New York State requirements and complete two years of classroom teaching beyond the mentored experience.
Supervised Fieldwork/Advisement
During one semester of your Bank Street program, while you take courses, you will gain teaching experience and intensive advisory support through supervised fieldwork/advisement. During that semester, your Bank Street advisor will visit you in your setting each month, and meet individually with you twice a month. You will gather with a small, supportive peer group once a week. The semester of supervision and advisement is central to your professional growth and development as you become a successful educator.
Integrative Master's Project
Before graduating, you will complete an independent study (master's thesis), mentored directed essay, seminar-based master's project, or portfolio. Your choice will depend on your own goals and learning style. This project allows you to pursue an area of particular interest to you, or to weave together the threads and understandings of your Bank Street graduate experience.
Admissions Requirements
Applicants to the Middle School Special Education program need to have a valid New York State initial or provisional certification at the Middle School level, grades 5 through 9.
Degree Earned
Students for whom this is a first master's degree earn a Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed). Students with a prior master's degree in Education earn an advanced Master of Education (Ed. M.) degree.
Further information
More Middle School Education programs (Middle Childhood certification, grades 5 to 9):