Program Overview
| Program Coordinator | Shannon McManimon, (845) 257-2828, mcmanims@newpaltz.edu |
| Program ID | 072C |
| Credits | 36 |
| Program Length | The MPS can be completed in one year if enrolled full-time, but students must complete degree within 5 years |
| Modality | In-person |
| Full-time/Part-time | Full-time |
| Transfer Credits | 6 |
| Capstone | Seminar |
| Licensure/Certification | NYSED Professional Special Subject Certification |
Program Description
The 36-credit program is available to special-subject teachers (family/consumer science, health, music, physical education, or technology education) who are initially certified to teach in New York and are seeking professional certification. The program of study focuses on content and skills necessary for teaching the diverse student population of New York State, with an emphasis on socially just learning practices and settings. Teachers graduate with knowledge and strategies to actively engage and challenge all students to reach their fullest potential—intellectually, emotionally, and socially.
The Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Social Justice Educational Studies offers a self-reflective, process-oriented approach to diversity, equity, and social justice. The program integrates intellectual/cognitive and social/emotional learning through an experiential and participatory process that centers social justice and critical thinking. Students work collaboratively to foster personal, communal, and institutional social change and to promote more humane, democratic, and inclusive classrooms, organizations, and communities.
Admission Requirements
Social Justice Educational Studies: Special Subject Teacher Certification (072C)
- One official copy of all undergraduate and graduate course work; the baccalaureate transcript should be from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average. The degree should contain appropriate courses in the special subject area of certification.
- New York State Initial Teacher Certification in Family/Consumer Science, Health, Music, Physical Education, or Technology.
- Contact information for three individuals who have a professional relationship with the prospective student and can provide a reference addressing the student’s potential for graduate work.
- A two-page letter describing how you expect the MPS Social Justice Educational Studies Program will help you meet your personal and professional goals. This can be integrated into the statement on the application form.
- An interview with a member of the faculty.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses (15 Credits) | ||
| EDS541 | Approaches to Social Justice Educational Studies | 3 |
| EDS581 | Race and Gender in Education | 3 |
| EDS748 | Qualitative Research Methods | 3 |
| EDS749 | Seminar in Social Justice Educational Studies | 3 |
| SPE565 | Teaching in Inclusive Classrooms | 3 |
| Electives in Social Justice Education (9 Credits) | ||
| Select three courses from the list below: | 9 | |
| Conflict Resolution in Education | ||
| Restorative and Transformative Justice and Practice | ||
| Antioppressive Pedagogies and Practices | ||
| Exploration of Gender in Education | ||
| Group Dynamics | ||
| Social-Emotional Learning for Social Justice | ||
| Leadership in Education and Human Service Settings | ||
| Electives in Content Area (6 Credits) | ||
| Work with Advisor to select two appropriate courses. | 6 | |
| Electives in Social Justice Education, Foundations, and Special Education (6 Credits) | ||
| Work with Advisor to select two appropriate courses. | 6 | |
| Total Credits | 36 | |
- Review plan of study with advisor during first semester of coursework
- Complete prescribed coursework and other certification requirements within five years after matriculation
- Maintain a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better in both total program and core courses, with no more than two grades below B-.
