A total of 36 credits is required for completion of the master of science degree in education. Typically, the M.S. degree can be completed in one year. In order to receive the M.S. degree in education, candidates must pass an examination in pedagogy in their appropriate certification area (elementary or secondary).
To obtain Connecticut teacher certification, candidates must also take six credits of student teaching (ED 600 ). Candidates should note that these six credits are taken in addition to the 36 credits required for the M.S. degree, and that student teaching credits do not count toward the degree. Successful completion of student teaching with a grade of B- or higher is required before candidates are recommended to the Connecticut Department of Education for initial teacher certification.
Candidates begin the program by attending orientation sessions and ED 601 - Introduction to Education , a one-credit course. ED 601 is offered in August for those candidates beginning their studies in September, and in December for those who begin in January. Candidates may begin the program in either the fall term or the winter term. Full-time candidates take their courses together as a cohort, fostering collegiality and professional relationships that frequently continue beyond the program’s duration.
Field Experiences
Intern Candidates: A supervised internship is an option available to all candidates. Candidates, while interning, are expected to work in a school district for 3 trimesters. In return, the Connecticut school district and the university pay the student’s tuition for the 36-credit master of science degree.
Capstone (Non-Intern) Candidates: Candidates who do not choose the internship option must complete 3 pre-student teaching field experiences while in the program. In the final field experience, candidates are placed in a classroom under the guidance of a teacher and university supervisor for a minimum of two weeks. The final field experience provides opportunities for observing experienced teachers, implementing selected lesson plans, and reflecting on practice.
Student Teaching: Prior to the student-teaching field experience, candidates must complete all prerequisites and professional courses with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Secondary candidates must pass PRAXIS II before applying for student teaching. Candidates participate in a 13-week student teaching practicum under the guidance of a classroom teacher who has completed the BEST (Beginning Educator Support and Training) program, and a university supervisor. Candidates may also be required to attend student teaching seminars during this period.
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