This non-licensure track allows you to earn a Master’s degree in general education studies. The sequence has three required courses and then allows for the remaining 7 courses to be customized to your interest. The sequence does not include clinical practice and therefore cannot lead to NJ initial licensure.
Education Studies Advisement Sheet
Required Courses
Psychological Foundations of Learning: 56:300:500 (3 credits)
This course examines child and adolescent development and focuses on developmental stages, learner motivation, student interests, creating a healthy learning climate, language development, and individual differences. (NJPST 1)
Exceptionalities: 56:300:501 (3 credits)
A survey of the neurological, sensory, orthopedic, communicative, and social disabilities, including autism spectrum disorders, present in children and the impact of these on the psychological and academic development of the child. Students will also examine the effect of the disabilities on cognitive, mental, and social growth, the factors to be considered in assessment and rehabilitative developments, and strategies for professional collaboration to meet students’ needs. (NJPST 2)
Fundamentals of Education: 56:300:510 (3 credits)
An examination of the foundations of teaching and instruction based on the New Jersey Professional Standards for Teachers. The completion and documentation of the 50-hour clinical experience is a course requirement. (NJPST 1-11)
Choose from the following elective courses to complete the track.
Literacy Foundations: 56:300:511 (3 credits)
This introductory course will examine the critical areas of language development, phonological and phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, word study, comprehension, and digital literacy. Students will investigate the ways in which these topics inform early literacy programs and reflect on the philosophical and theoretical perspectives that shape their teaching practice. (NJPST 3, 4, 7)
Mathematical Foundations in Education: 56:300:512 (3 credits)
This course focuses on preparing pre-service teachers to develop, plan, and evaluate math lessons that are developmentally appropriate for learners from early childhood to 6th grade. Students will learn how to assess student math knowledge and skills based on content outlined in the NJSLS through a student-centered inquiry approach, working with manipulatives, different technologies, and other methods to build mathematical knowledge. (NJPST 4, 7)
Reading and Writing in the Secondary Curriculum: 56:300:515 (3 credits)
This course will focus on developing literacy practices across the curriculum for middle and high school grades. Emphasis on higher order comprehension skills, vocabulary development, and content area reading and writing. (NJPST 4, 7, 8)
Inclusive Teaching Methods: 56:300:531 (3 credits)
This course will provide an in-depth look at inclusive practices in typical and atypical environments. Students will explore collaboration and understand the process of developing a cohesive classroom environment for all learners. (NJPST 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10)
Autism Spectrum Disorder: 56:300:533 (3 credits)
This course will provide an in-depth analysis of the characteristics, language development, social relationship development, and instructional methods and interventions for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). In addition to specialized practices, students will learn how to modify instruction in general education classes to meet the needs of students with ASD. (NJPST 2, 3, 8)
Learning Environments for Special Education: 56:300:538 (3 credits)
This course will provide an overview of the knowledge and understanding of learning environments, including how to implement positive behavioral supports, how to form collaborative partnerships between and with student’s families, education specialists, and educators, and provide an understanding of the modifications and materials needed for students with disabilities in both general and special education settings. (NJPST 1, 2, 3,7)
The Special Education Process: 56:300:532 (3 credits)
An analysis of the special education process from initial identification to transition into adulthood and independence. Students will learn the principles of collaboration, both internal and external, in the classroom, school, and special education procedures and the categories of disabilities. (NJPST 9, 10, 11)
Linguistics: 56:300:570 (3 credits)
A study of language and cultures, including techniques for analyzing linguistic structures. This course will also examine sociolinguistics and writing systems.(NJPST 4 & 5)
Second Language Acquisition: 56:300:571 (3 credits)
This course focuses on the principles of second language learning and will explore the major themes and theories in second language acquisition and the learning impact in a classroom setting. Students will gain a more accurate perspective of the complexity of factors that shape language. (NJPST 1, 2, 6, 7, 8)
Any 300 or 400 level undergraduate course from the Education Department
Only with prior approval, and the completion of a G prefix form. See MAT for more information.
Other or Older Education Department courses 56:300:xxx
Only with prior approval. Contact MAT for more information.