THE JOHN H. LOUNSBURY SCHOOL OF EDUCATION

Linda Irwin-DeVitis, Dean soe@gcsu.edu
Carol Bader, Assistant Dean
Sam Basinger, Graduate Admissions Coordinator sam.basinger@gcsu.edu

The John H. Lounsbury School of Education was named and dedicated to honor Dr. John H. Lounsbury, founding dean of the School of Education. Dr. Lounsbury is nationally recognized as one of a group of educators responsible for the middle grades movement in the USA and the world.

PROGRAMS, DEGREES AND SERVICES

The John H. Lounsbury School of Education is the unit of the institution responsible for preparing educators for the State of Georgia. The teacher education programs at Georgia College & State University are fully accredited by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC) and the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). All programs are aligned along National Board of Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS), the Georgia Frameworks for Teaching, and other learned societies' standards for individual programs. Students in the graduate programs are encouraged to extend their knowledge and skill by seeking national board certification.

Programs are offered at both the master and specialist levels. The Early Childhood, Middle Grades, Secondary, and Special Education traditional Master of Education graduate programs are housed in the School of Education along with graduate programs in Educational Leadership and Educational Technology including Library Media and Instructional Technology.

The Master of Arts in Teaching in Secondary Education, a cooperative program developed with the College of Arts and Sciences, leads to initial certification in secondary teaching fields. The Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education leads to initial certification in special education. Health, and Physical Education is located in the Department of Kinesiology in the School of Health Sciences. The Master of Education in Music is offered through the School of Arts and Sciences.

Additional advanced education is available through the sixth year, Educational Specialist Degree, in the areas of Educational Leadership and Curriculum and Instruction.

CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

In forming a conceptual framework designed to meet the needs of today's students , GCSU's School of Education focuses on what teachers should know and be able to do in order to help students succeed. The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), the Interstate New Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium (INTASC), the Georgia Framework for Teaching, and the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (the National Board) set standards for teacher education, beginning teacher licensing, and advanced certification and offer the most powerful tools we have for improving the profession. These standards and the assessments that grow out of them identify what it takes to be an effective teacher:

1. subject-matter expertise coupled with the competencies of how children learn and develop;
2. skill in using a range of teaching strategies and technologies;
3. sensitivity and effectiveness in working with students from diverse backgrounds;
4. ability to work well with parents and other teachers; and the
5. assessment expertise to know how well children are learning, and what needs to be done next to meet individual needs.

The standards define the teacher as instructional leader who orchestrates learning experience in response to curriculum goals and student needs and who challenges students to high levels of Independent performance. At the graduate level, teachers are expected to be leaders within their classrooms, schools, and districts. By incorporating these standards into a conceptual framework, the School of Education believes that graduates of its programs will be fully prepared to meet the educational challenges of the future.

The Georgia College & State University School of Education has chosen the theme Educators as Architects of Change as the conceptual framework for the professional experience offered by GCSU. This framework is constructed upon a professional knowledge base which focuses on the following core concepts:

MISSION OF THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION

The John H. Lounsbury School of Education's particular mission is to:

1. Assist career educators certified in the public school teaching fields of Early Childhood, Middle Grades, Secondary, and Special Education to hone their professional skills in their respective areas of preparation through the provision of programs of excellence developing Architects of Change.
2. Prepare educators for initial certification at the graduate level in the areas of secondary, special education, and library media.
3. Prepare administrators for initial and advanced certification.
4. Serve public schools with in-service education and technical assistance.
5. Support research and scholarship that will enhance instructional effectiveness and sustain program quality and standards.
6. Provide instructionally excellent programs that support the developing teacher's and administrator's effectiveness in meeting the needs of all students in the public schools.
7. Provide opportunities for teachers and administrators to select educational experiences that will increase their global knowledge, understanding of and appreciation for diversity.
8. Actively recruit and admit a high-quality, diverse, graduate population.

ADMISSION POLICY

Note: The School of Education does not offer a conditional or provisional registration option.

MASTER OF EDUCATION

PREREQUISITES

1. Pass an on-site writing assessment /education/writing.html
2. Meet minimal Grade Point Average (Early Childhood M.Ed. and Middle Grades M.Ed = 2.75; others 2.25)
3. Hold or be eligible for a clear renewable, level four (4) Georgia Teacher Certificate-except Educational Technology Programs

ADMISSION

To be admitted as a graduate student in an M.Ed. degree program, an applicant must:

1. Submit a University Admissions Form including application fee, if applicable,
2. Submit two professional recommendations (pdf) using the School of Education format,
3. Submit official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended, and
4. Submit verification of immunization (pdf)

Applicants must also satisfy all GACE requirements, where appropriate; submit to a criminal background check; and have a Program of Graduate Study approved, signed and filed.

ADVISEMENT

The Departmental Chairperson, in cooperation with the departmental admission committees and program coordinators, assigns each admitted student to an adviser in the chosen area of study. It is the responsibility of the student to meet with the assigned adviser to develop an individualized program of study that meets the course work requirements. A signed program of study must be filed with the Departmental Chairperson in order to be fully admitted.

SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT EMPHASIS

The core for the majority of the M.Ed. programs at GCSU is school improvement. In this program, teachers focus on issues central to school improvement while also learning about best practices in their field (e.g. early childhood, middle grades, secondary, special education, leadership, and educational technology). Based on data gathered in their own schools, teachers begin to examine questions such as "What is school improvement? How does change occur? What changes need to be made at my school to best facilitate student learning?" Participants have the opportunity to enroll in classes with other teachers from their school, thus creating a cluster of individuals ready to address school improvement as a team. This work is negotiated between teachers, their administration, and college professors. Through this experience, teachers examine their school and create a plan for investigating a problem and developing new practices. Then after making some aspect of their school a model for others to follow, they share those triumphs with colleagues through faculty meetings, board meetings, or state and national conferences.

PROGRAM OF STUDY

The Master of Education degree requires a minimum of 36 semester hours of course work. Courses must be included in these categories: professional education, courses in the certification area, and additional program requirements or electives. This degree program must be completed within six years beginning with the initial date of course work. Students may require more than the minimum 36 hours in order to qualify for certification in a particular program area. Only those courses included on the Program of Graduate Study count toward degree fulfillment. Substitutions must be pre-approved by the adviser and a Change of Graduate Program of Study form submitted to the appropriate departmental chairperson prior to enrollment.

Graduate Assistantships

Students may wish to apply for Graduate Assistantships as they work on their Master of Education Degrees.

PROGRAM ORIENTATIONS

A required orientation program for new students in M.Ed. programs will be held prior to each semester. Please check the SOE website for details.

MASTER OF ARTS IN TEACHING (M.A.T.)

The M.A.T. is a master's program for students who are not already certified to teach. Students must already possess a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. GCSU offers the M.A.T. in the following areas:

• M.A.T. in Secondary Education
• M.A.T. in Special Education

Prerequisites

1. Pass an on-site writing assessment
2. Meet minimal undergraduate cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on all course work attempted, at each institution attended, in which letter grades were awarded
3. Pass (or exempt) the GACE Basic Assessment

Application Process
All application materials should be sent to:

Office Of Graduate Admissions
Georgia College & State University
Campus Box 107 • Milledgeville, GA 31061
Toll free in Georgia: 800-342-0471
(478) 445-6289
E-mail: grad-admit@gcsu.edu

For the admissions process applicants:

1. Submit a University Admissions Form including application fee, if applicable
2. Submit two professional recommendations (pdf) using the School of Education format
3. Submit official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended
4. Submit verification of immunization (pdf)
5. M.A.T.-Secondary Only: Submit GACE Content Assessment Scores
6. Submit to a background check. (This will be done after you are accepted to a program.)

PROGRAM ORIENTATIONS

A required orientation program for new students in M.A.T. programs will be held prior to each semester. Please check the SOE website for details.

ADVISEMENT

The Departmental Chairpersons, in cooperation with the departmental admission committees and program coordinators, assign each fully admitted student to a mentor leader of the M.A.T. cohort. It is the responsibility of the student to meet with this mentor leader.

PROGRAM OF STUDY

The Master of Arts in Teaching - Secondary Education requires a minimum of 36 semester hours of course work. Courses must be completed in these categories: professional education, courses in the certification area and additional program requirements or electives. This degree program must be completed within six years, beginning with the initial date of course work. Students may require more than the minimum 36 semester hours in order to qualify for certification in a particular content area. Only those courses included on the Program of Graduate Study count toward degree fulfillment. Substitutions must be pre-approved by the adviser and a Change of Graduate Program of Study form submitted to the Departmental Chairperson's office prior to enrollment.

The Master of Arts in Teaching- Special Education requires a minimum of 48 semester hours of coursework. This degree program must be completed within six years, beginning with the initial date of course work.

EXIT REQUIREMENTS

All students must pass a comprehensive departmental exit requirement before completion of the program. Usually this exit requirement includes an electronic portfolio. Students should check with their adviser or the department chairperson for specifics. Students must pass this exit requirement to graduate.

Cohort Model

Both the M.A.T. in Secondary Education and the M.A.T. in Special Education are offered in cohort models in which groups of students begin and end programs at the same time. The M.A.T. Secondary Education cohorts begin in the summer semesters only. The M.A.T. Special Education cohorts begin in the spring semesters only.

COMPLETION CHECKLIST

1. Earn a minimum GPA of 3.0 on all work attempted.
2. Submit an application for graduation at least one semester before the anticipated graduation date.
3. Successfully complete a comprehensive departmental exit requirement (usually including an electronic portfolio.)
4. Where appropriate, schedule the GACE in the new area of certification.
5. When seeking a new certification area, submit passing scores on the GACE Content Area Assessment, the College Recommendation for Certification form and all necessary documentation to the School of Education Certification Officer.

Graduate Assistantships

Students may wish to apply for Graduate Assistantships as they work on their Master of Arts in Teaching Degrees.

These assistantships are limited to 10-hours per week.

SPECIALIST IN EDUCATION

The Specialist in Education Degree (Ed.S.) provides advanced study for qualified master educators. The program of study:

1. Builds upon work completed at the master's level
2. Strengthens and extends professional, pedagogical, and content knowledge
3. Prepares advanced practitioners to be architects of change and leaders in the professional community.

GCSU offers the Ed.S. in the following areas:

• Ed.S. with a Concentration in Early Childhood
• Ed.S. with a Concentration in Middle Grades
• Ed.S. with a Major in Educational Leadership
• Ed.S. with a Major in Curriculum and Instruction and a Concentration Secondary Education
• Ed.S. with a Major in Special Education (pending)

Core courses will be available in Macon. Other courses will be offered in Milledgeville, Macon, or through distance learning.

Prerequisites

1. Pass an on-site writing assessment
2. Meet minimal Grade Point Average of 3.25
3. Be eligible for a clear renewable, level five (5) State of Georgia Certification
4. Verify two years teaching experience

Application Process
All application materials should be sent to:

Office of Graduate Admissions

Georgia College & State University

Campus Box 107

Milledgeville, GA 31061

(478) 445-6289

Toll free (800) 342-0471

Email: grad-admit@gcsu.edu

For the admissions process applicants:

1. Submit a University Admissions Form including application fee, if applicable.
2. Submit two professional recommendations (pdf) using the School of Education format.
3. Submit official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended (except GCSU)
4. Submit verification of immunization (pdf)

See specific programs for additional requirements.

ADVISEMENT

Each candidate for the Specialist in Education degree is assigned a graduate adviser in the selected area of specialization. The adviser will serve as a mentor to the Specialist Candidate and assist in proposing, scheduling and completing the Specialist in Education Program of Graduate Study.

PROGRAM OF STUDY

The Specialist in Education program requires work in two areas: course studies and a program of activities for professional and personal development. Students are encouraged to consider national certification as a possible outcome of this advanced study. A minimum of 27 semester hours of course work beyond the Master of Education degree is required. Specialist programs must be completed, with the degree awarded, within four years of the initial coursework listed on the program of study. Only those courses included on the Program of Graduate Study count toward degree fulfillment. Substitutions must be pre-approved by the adviser and a Change of Graduate Program of Study form submitted to the office of the Departmental Chairperson prior to enrollment. No grade below a B may be included toward meeting degree requirements.

PROGRAM ORIENTATIONS

A required orientation program for new students in Ed.S. programs will be held prior to each semester. Please check the SOE website for details.

Graduate Assistantships
Students may wish to apply for Graduate Assistantships as they work on their Education Specialist Degrees.

YEAR LONG PROGRAM OF PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES FOR SOME PROGRAM

(Check with your adviser if the year long program of professional activities is required in your degree program.)

1. With the initiation of the Specialist program, each candidate must complete a program of professional activities and development. A written plan, approved by the adviser must be submitted to the Coordinator of Graduate Programs before the program is begun. Activities in no less than four of the following areas are required.
2. Be an active member of professional organization as evidenced by such activities as holding office, making presentations, or attending conferences and/or meetings.
3. Engage in a program of professional reading as agreed upon by the adviser. (These readings would be in addition to the readings required for courses and/or thesis preparation).
4. Engage in professional writing as evidenced by the preparation and submission to appropriate journals or other publishing formats of original articles or other creative endeavors.
5. Provide service to the education profession as evidenced by such activities as serving on a textbook selection committee, SACS committee, serving on a beginning teacher assessment team, serving as a referee for a professional journal, offering workshops and presentations, and speaking to lay audiences.
6. Demonstrate professional creativity through development of educational support materials such as, but not limited to, a curriculum model, text, media production, or computer assisted instruction program.
7. Engage in visitation for the purpose of observing notable or exemplary education activities.
8. Engage in travel for professional purposes such as acquiring cross-cultural insights to develop additional skills, acquire additional knowledge, and/or broaden professional contacts.

EXIT REQUIREMENTS

All students must pass a comprehensive departmental exit requirement and document the completion of the year long program of professional activities to graduate. Students should check with their adviser or the department chairperson for specifics. Students not meeting this exit requirement will be unable to graduate until the requirement is met.

RESIDENCY

At least 21 of the minimum 27 semester hours of the Specialist degree must be completed at Georgia College & State University (Milledgeville or Macon). Six semester hours in the selected field of study may be transferred from other institutions upon the approval of the adviser and if the course work is no more than four years old at the time of completion of the program. All course work must be completed within four years of the date of the initial course work listed on the program. No grade below a B may be counted toward meeting degree requirements.

COMPLETION CHECKLIST

Please refer to individual departments for specific completion requirements.

TEACHER CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS

All teacher certification programs at the John H. Lounsbury School of Education are approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. The School of Education is a member of the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE), and accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). All degree programs at Georgia College & State University are accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

All applicants for initial State of Georgia Teacher Certification must attain satisfactory scores on both the GACE Basic Skills Assessment and the GACE Content Assessment. Applicants who are adding areas to a current State of Georgia Teacher Certification must attain satisfactory scores on GACE Content Assessment in the field to be added.

All applicants for initial State of Georgia Teacher Certification must submit to a background check.

Applicants pursuing initial certification must complete a program at GCSU and be recommended by the GCSU certification officer.

Applicants pursing advanced certification do not need recommendation by the GCSU officer.

INITIAL CERTIFICATION
(WHILE COMPLETING A GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAM)

The John H. Lounsbury School of Education offers degree programs that lead to initial certification at the graduate level in the following areas:

Master of Arts in Teaching—Secondary Education grades 6-12 (T-5)

English, Math, Biology, Chemistry, History, Political Science, Business Education, Broad Field Science, Spanish and French (6-12) Art, Health (P-12)

Master of Arts in Teaching—Special Education grades P-12 (T-5)

Master of Education—Educational Technology (S-5)

Library Media—only students completing the Library Media program are eligible for a State of Georgia Service Certificate (S-5)

Master of Education--Educational Leadership (L-5)

Students who complete an approved teacher (T) certification program from GCSU may be recommended to the Georgia Professional Standards Commission for initial certification. Preservice teachers applying for initial certification must:

1. Take and pass (or exempt) all sections of the GACE Basic Skills Assessment before enrolling in a program.
2. Have a 2.50 cumulative GPA on all course work taken prior to enrollment.
3. Successfully complete an individual certification program of choice at GCSU.
4. Pass the appropriate section of the GACE Content Assessment for the certification area sought.
5. Complete the PSC certification application and file the completed form with all the necessary documentation intact with Certification Officer.
6. Be recommended by the School of Education Certification Officer.
7. Submit to a criminal background.
8. Verify immunization.

The final recommendation for initial certification is a responsibility of the School of Education. The Certification Officer of the School of Education provides students information regarding the appropriate process for seeking certification in the State of Georgia. The College Recommendation Form, found in the application packet, is completed by the student and returned to the Certification Officer with a copy of the GACE Basic Skills and the GACE Content Assessment test scores and official transcripts of all college course work. The Certification Officer verifies for the Professional Standards Commission that the applicant has met the requirements for certification. Please note that the collection and submission of all documentation for teacher certification is the responsibility of the individual student. The Certification Officer will assist and support the student during the collection of required information and upon submission of that information will file the certification application with the Professional Standards Commission.

All teacher certification programs are subject to change in response to new requirements from the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. Students will be given appropriate notice of changes, and teacher education programs will be modified or adapted to meet the required change.

NON-DEGREE PROGRAMS

GCSU offers non-degree programs in four areas:

1. Add-on certification in Educational Leadership
2. Add-on certification in Library Media
3. Endorsement in Reading
4. Endorsement in Early Childhood Mathematics

ADDING AND RENEWING CERTIFICATION

The graduate programs at the John H. Lounsbury School of Education offer teachers the opportunity to add new certification areas to already existing certificates or renew current certificates. Teachers who desire to add certification to an existing Georgia Certificate may apply for a transcript evaluation through the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (application forms are available through the local School Boards). Students wishing to add new areas of Leadership or Educational Technology should contact the individual Department Chairpersons for details. Once the requirements are established, the student should meet with the appropriate adviser to complete a program of study including necessary course work and required hours.

ENDORSEMENTS

Endorsement programs at the graduate level are offered to teachers wishing to add areas to their current State of Georgia Teacher Certification. The John H. Lounsbury School of Education offers endorsements in: Reading and Early Childhood Mathematics.

EARLY CHILDHOOD AND MIDDLE GRADES EDUCATION

Acting Chairperson: Nancy B. Mizelle
Professors: Carol Bader, Linda Irwin-DeVitis, Karynne Kleine, Charlie Martin
Associate Professors:, Carol Christy, Nancy B. Mizelle, Lyndall Muschell, Stephen Stewart
Assistant Professors: Paige Campbell, Lee Digiovanni, Linda Golson, Lucy Kachmarik, Trish Klein, Stacy Schwartz,

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The graduate program offered in Early Childhood or Middle Grades Education at Georgia College & State University at the T5 certification level is intended for persons already possessing an undergraduate degree in education. The advanced level of certification is associated with the completion of the Master of Education degree program in Early Childhood Education or Middle Grades. These programs extend and expand the study of the development of children and adolescents at an advanced level as outlined in the conceptual framework. Within the context of the master's degree program, candidates are exposed to a wide variety of information related to education and work with children and adolescents with particular emphasis on serving as mentors for beginning teachers, advocating for young children in the larger professional community, and conducting action research in classrooms.

DEGREES OFFERED

The graduate programs in Early Childhood or Middle Grades Education lead to a Master of Education Degree or Education Specialist Degree.

M.ED. WITH MAJOR IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION (P-5) (EMPHASIZING SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT)

M.ED. WITH MAJOR IN MIDDLE GRADES EDUCATION (4-8) (EMPHASIZING SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT)

Required:

NOTE: Students must demonstrate competency in technology and in the instruction of reading, or include EDIT 5202 and EDRD 6150 in their programs of study.

Content concentration is determined through advisement. Students are strongly advised to include courses offered by the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Concentration area must be selected from language arts, math, social studies, or science.

Concentration Areas:

Required courses must be taken in the selected areas. Additional Arts and Sciences courses appropriate to concentrations may be selected with advisor approval.

SPECIALIST DEGREE PROGRAMS

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Specialist in Education (Ed.S.) program offered in the Department of Early Childhood and Middle Grades Education provides advanced study for qualified master educators at the T6 certification level. The programs of study include a 12 hour advanced, research-oriented, professional education core and 15 hours of advanced course work in the content field, building upon work completed at the master's level; strengthening and extending professional, pedagogical, and content knowledge; and preparing advanced practitioners to be architects of change and dynamic leaders in the professional community.

Ed.S. DEGREE WITH MAJOR IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Note: Program is under revision and specific programs of study will be developed with your academic advisor to address your specific need. Please refer to the GCSU website for updates in this program. A portfolio presentation is required.

Research Sequence:

Specific graduate level cognate courses are determined through advisement.

ED.S. DEGREE WITH A MAJOR IN MIDDLE GRADES EDUCATION

Note: Program is under revision and specific programs of study will be developed with your academic advisor to address your specific need. Please refer to the GCSU website for updates in this program. A portfolio presentation is required.

Research Sequence:

Specific graduate level cognate courses are determined through advisement.

Refer to the Course Description Section of this catalog for courses and course descriptions.

READING ENDORSEMENT

Georgia College & State University (GCSU) offers a unique professional development opportunity. The program is designed for any P-12 teacher or supplemental reading teacher who is interested in learning how to better meet the needs of the students in his/her classroom. The program addresses the competencies required by the Professional Standards Commission's Georgia Reading Endorsement and emphasizes classroom application and addresses three strands:

• Understanding Readers and the Reading Process
• Linking Literacy Assessment and Instruction
• Instructional Strategies in the content areas across Pre-K-12 educators.

This program requires two meetings on Milledgeville campus per semester. The remainder of the work is on-line.

Specialized Teaching of Reading (Choice of 1)

or

EARLY CHILDHOOD MATHEMATICS ENDORSEMENT

GCSU offers Early Childhood Mathematics Endorsement through the mathematics department. Please contact the mathematics department for details.

FOUNDATIONS AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

Chair: Jane Hinson
Technology Coordinator: J.J. Hayden
Professors: Joe DeVitis, Jane Hinson
Associate Professors: Cynthia Alby, Brian Mumma
Assistant Professors: Marianne Edwards, J.J. Hayden, Martha Jones, Chris Greer, Chrispen Matsika

DEGREES OFFERED

The Department of Foundations and Secondary Education offers the following degree program:

1. Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree with a major in secondary education in the content fields of Art and Health (P-12), English, Mathematics, History, Political Science, Biology, Chemistry, Broad Field Science, French, Spanish, and Business Education (6-12)
2. Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree in Secondary Education;
3. Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree in Educational Technology with two track options: Library Media, and Instructional Technology;
4. Specialist in Education (Ed.S.) degree in Curriculum and Instruction—Secondary Education

CERTIFICATION

The M.A.T. in Secondary Education (grades 6-12) program provides preparation for initial level 5 Georgia Teacher's Certificate (T5). The Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Secondary Education program also leads to level five Georgia Teacher's Certificate (T5) for individuals who possess T4 certification. The Master of Education program in Instructional Technology-Library Media leads to level five Georgia Service Certificate (S5). Specialist in Education programs in Curriculum and Instruction-Secondary Education lead to level six Georgia Teacher's Certificate (T6).

MASTER OF ARTS IN TEACHING

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree in Secondary Education provides initial teacher preparation at the master's degree level for qualified candidates who hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution with a major in one of the content fields listed below, or in a related area that includes coursework that is the equivalent of a major in such an area. The degree program prepares persons for certification to teach in grades 6-12 in the fields of Business Education, English, Mathematics, History, French, Spanish, Political Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Broad Field Science; and for certification to teach in grades P-12 in Health and Art. The program is designed for college graduates whose undergraduate degrees did not include professional education preparation. The program is comprised of a minimum of 36 semester hours of graduate course work: 27 semester hours in professional education and 9 semester hours in the content field. The professional education component is a one-year, full-time, field-based journey, which begins with a new cohort in June or July of every year and follows the public school calendar. A two-year evening program is also available for individuals who are currently teaching under non-renewable certificates. All professional education courses are field-based, and students spend a minimum of 20 hours per week with host teachers in a variety of public school placements. Spring semester coursework includes a ten week, full-time student teaching internship. A lab fee is associated with the student teaching internship. Infused in all course work and field experiences are five strands of study: technology in the classroom, classroom inquiry, specific content area applications, teaching literacy skills, and diversity issues in the classroom including exceptionalities. Upon satisfactory completion of the program, a candidate may be recommended for a T5 State of Georgia Teachers Certificate.

Graduate level courses are selected with the approval of the candidate's adviser to enhance content area preparation. A candidate who has not fulfilled minimum certification requirements in the proposed teaching field is required to take additional course work in the content area.

MASTER OF EDUCATION

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree program in Secondary Education extends and expands upon initial teacher education preparation in the secondary content fields through a core of advanced professional education course work and advanced content area study. This program is for individuals who already hold or qualify for a level four Georgia Teacher's certificate.

The department also offers master's level programs in Educational Technology with the following options: M.Ed. in Library Media, which leads to level five Georgia Service Certificate; M.Ed. in Instructional Technology (presently there is no state certification in Instructional Technology), and non-degree add-on in Library Media. Level four certification is not required for admission to educational technology programs.

All M.Ed. programs seek to a) engender a willingness to pursue lifelong education; b) enhance the development of active leadership within the educational community and the community at large; c) develop an awareness of, sensitivity to, and strategies for dealing with a culturally diverse and internationally focused society; d) promote academic excellence through the mastery of pedagogy and content; and e) foster systematic investigation and personal reflection on current professional issues and practices.

M.ED. WITH A MAJOR IN SECONDARY EDUCATION (FOR ADVANCED CERTIFICATION)

(T-4 Certification in the area of specialization is required for admission.)

(Graduate-level courses in the content area of specialization are selected through advisement to strengthen and extend prior content knowledge)

Please refer to the Georgia College & State University website for updates to this section.

M.ED. WITH A MAJOR IN EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY: INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY

This program is designed to provide advanced technology skills and knowledge to the professional educator, instructional developer, or instructional technologist who intends to work in occupational areas where formal certification is not required. The T-4 certification in a teaching field is not required for admission. An S-5 certificate is not issued upon completion of this program. This program may allow teachers who have a T-4 certificate to advance to a T-5 while developing technology skills for the classroom.

Select five graduate level courses from the following:

Electives from related courses may be selected through advisement.

M.ED. WITH A MAJOR IN EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY: LIBRARY MEDIA SPECIALIST

The T4 certification in a teaching field is not required for admission. Upon meeting all certification requirements, an S-5 certificate in Media Specialist may be issued at the conclusion of this program. Students must be recommended by the certification officer.

Electives from related courses may be selected through advisement.

ADD-ON CERTIFICATION IN EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY: LIBRARY MEDIA SPECIALIST (FOR STUDENTS WHO ALREADY HAVE A MASTER'S DEGREE)

Students are encouraged to consider a second master's degree in lieu of this add-on. Please discuss this option with an adviser.

The T4 certification in a teaching field is not required for admission. Upon meeting all certification requirements, an S-5 certificate in Media Specialist may be issued at the conclusion of this program. Students must be recommended by the certification officer.

Electives from related courses may be selected through advisement.

For individuals who have a master's degree in a field other than education.

SPECIALIST IN EDUCATION

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Specialist in Education (Ed.S.) programs offered in the Department of Foundations and Secondary Education provide advanced study for qualified master educators. A minimum of 27 semester hours of course work beyond the Master of Education degree is required. The programs of study include a 9 hour advanced, research oriented, professional education core and 18 hours of advanced coursework in the content field, building upon work completed at the master's level; strengthening and extending professional, pedagogical, and content knowledge; and preparing advanced practitioners to be architects of change and dynamic leaders in their professional communities.

ED.S. WITH A MAJOR IN CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION-SECONDARY EDUCATION (6-12)

Research Sequence

Select 9 hours from the following or complete the Reading Endorsement Option

Reading Endorsement Option

Graduate level courses are selected through advisement to strengthen and extend content area knowledge.

SPECIAL EDUCATION AND EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP

Chair: Craig Smith
Professors: W. Bee Crews, J.W. Good, Rosemary Jackson, Paul Jones, Cheryl Reynolds, Patricia Seay, Craig Smith
Associate Professors: Amy Childre
Assistant Professors: Lynn McMullen, Rebecca McMullen, William Rowe

DEGREES OFFERED

The Department of Special Education and Educational Leadership offers the Masters of Education (M.Ed.) Degree in Educational Leadership and Special Education.

It also offers a Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) Degree for initial certification in Special Education.

CERTIFICATION

Students successfully completing the M.A.T. Special Education program for initial certification may be recommended for a level five Georgia Teacher's Certificate (P-12).

Students completing the M.Ed. in Special Education may request level five certification through their school boards or directly to the PSC

Students successfully completing a program in Educational Leadership may be recommended for a level five or level six (L5, L6) Georgia Certificate in Educational Leadership.

MASTERS DEGREES IN SPECIAL EDUCATION

PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONS

The programs in Special Education are supported by the Georgia College & State University's unified conceptual framework and are dedicated to producing both beginning and advanced teachers of students with disabilities. Within the context of these master degree programs, the candidate is presented a wide variety of information concerning individuals with disabilities with particular emphasis placed on advocacy and involvement in action research in both the school and the community.

MASTER OF ARTS IN TEACHING (M.A.T.) IN SPECIAL EDUCATION (FOR INITIAL CERTIFICATION

The program listed below leads to initial certification in Special Education. This program is open only to students who do not currently hold any teaching certificate in the state of Georgia. The M.Ed. program in Special Education is configured as a cohort which means students enroll and matriculate as one group under the supervision of faculty in the special education program. Students should consult the University web site for further information and requirements.

M.A.T.--SPECIAL EDUCATION

Semester I

Semester II

Semester III

Semester IV

Semester V

Please refer to the GCSU web page (Graduate Catalog) for additional information on programs in Special Education.

MASTER OF EDUCATION (M.Ed.) IN SPECIAL EDUCATION (FOR ADVANCED CERTIFICATION)

MASTERS DEGREE IN EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The educational leadership program develops advanced practitioners to become mentors and advisers to beginning educators, innovative leaders in their schools and communities and architects of change in the systems that govern local, state, and national education. The master of education degree supports this philosophy by providing the practitioner with the tools to construct a knowledge base in current educational trends and innovative curricular designs which will build the foundation for innovative leadership resulting in successful student performance. The content field coursework specific to Leadership is taken as part of a cohort. The coursework is configured to meet on Saturdays supplemented by on-line assignments and study. Students already holding T5 level certification in a Georgia may elect to add certification in Leadership by completing the Content Field courses only. Students fully admitted to the M.Ed. program may complete the Professional Education Courses before, during, or after the Content Field cohort. Two years of teaching experience is required for admittance into the M.Ed. and Ed.S. leadership programs.

Please refer to the GCSU web page for updates on this program.

ADD-ON CERTIFICATION IN EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP

Students already holding T5 level certification in Georgia may elect to add certification in Leadership by completing the Content Field courses only. However, they are encouraged to consider a second master's degree in lieu of this add-on. Please discuss this option with an adviser.

SPECIALIST DEGREE IN EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Specialist in Education (Ed.S.) program offered in the Department of Special Education and Educational Leadership provides advanced study for qualified educators. The program of study builds upon work completed at the master's level; strengthening and extending professional, pedagogical, and content knowledge; and preparing advanced practitioners to be architects of change and leaders in the professional community. The Specialist in Education program in Educational Leadership is organized around cohorts. Each cohort is supervised by one faculty member who assures that students meet all program standards prior to graduation. Coursework is organized around thematic blocks that address school improvement issues. Cohorts meet on selected Saturdays with substantial online work related to school improvement issues in their home schools.

Semester I

Semester II Architects of Change

Semester III

Please refer to the GCSU web page for updates on this program.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Prospective students desiring further information on the various Special Education and Educational Leadership programs may contact the Department Chair, Dr. Craig Smith, Georgia College & State University, Campus Box 072, Milledgeville, GA 31061. The office telephone number is (478) 445-4577. The Department Chair's email address is Craig.Smith@gcsu.edu.